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writers Emily Apple Caroline Bond Heather Brandon Sharon Carlton Bonnie Church Yogi Collins Marion Edwards Erika Giovanetti Hollie Greene James Howell Heather Jordan Mary McKinney Noelle Miller Sue Spirit
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contents
women in the news 7 sheri church 10 mom’s world 12 standing in the gap 14 young at heart 16 kate eller 18 living well 20 granny’s cookbook 22 high country courtesies 24 trimella chaney 26 marriage and family 30 heartfelt gifts 32 children’s council 34 katrina miller 36 beauty 38 surviving the holidays 40 fashion 42 chicken soup for the soul 44 by the book 46 recipes 48
trimella chaney
10
sheri church
18
kate eller
26
36
katrina miller
44
melissa edmondson
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editor’s note
Gifts that Really Matter
Usually, by this time every year, I have my Christmas shopping completed and most gifts wrapped, or at least stuck down inside those ever-so-convenient gift bags that I have learned to love. I “usually” have my Christmas cards, 150-plus, addressed and stamped. I also “usually” have my cupboards filled with sugars, nuts, chocolate morsels, peanut butter, coconut and a number of other ingredients purchased in advance of my Christmas baking marathon, which “usually” happens in early December, frozen and ready for delivery to friends, family members and shut-ins. I also “usually” have every block of my December calendar filled in with a holiday deadline or special event, including the dates on which we gather with members of our community clubs, church and civic groups, last minute doctor or dental visits (you know, the deductible thing) and on it goes. I’m sure, by now, you have noticed the common thread running through this page – and through my mind. The magic word – “usually,” in this case, means that most things I’ve considered important in years past are not getting the same attention as they “usually” do. I’m not sure that it’s all going to happen “as usual,” this year. Am I feeling like Scrooge? Maybe, just a little bit, but for good reason. I am tired of trying to squeeze every single goodwill gesture into such a small amount of time and space, as
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most of us do this time every year. Why not spread the cheer out a little thinner into the rest of the year? Every year, many of us (women, especially) work so hard to make sure everything is so perfect for everyone around us, only to be too tired to enjoy what should be the most special time of the year. I know I am not the only one who becomes almost resentful of the time I’ve spent making it happen. This year, I’m getting back to the basics. I need more quality time relaxing by the fire with family and close friends and visiting those who really need me. I want to experience a “Silent Night” and a little “Joy to the World” without feeling like Grandma who got run over by a reindeer. I want to avoid some of the chaos that robs me of the season’s intended serenity. Does it seem selfish? It might. Do I need to apologize? I don’t think so. Do I look forward to visiting with those who mean the most to me? Yes. Can I stand waiting to cuddle my precious little grandson in the glow of the candlelight, while his Papaw reads us the Christmas Story? Hardly. I hope you will join me in trying to put the Christmas season into perspective and enjoy it as we should. Let’s make it merry.
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WOMENINTHENEWS
A Servant’s Heart Meleah Coffey, right, teacher assistant at Parkway School, was presented with the Servant’s Heart Award for November. She was honored during the Watauga County Board of Education’s November meeting. Meleah was praised by both Watauga County Schools Superintendent Scott Elliott, pictured left, and kindergarten teacher Susan Suddreth for her exceptional commitment to students, and as a person who goes far above and beyond expectations in supporting her colleagues and serving her community.
Teachers renew national certification Twelve Watauga County Schools teachers achieved renewed National Board Certification, the highest professional credential available to teachers. Board certification is good for 10 years and must be renewed at that point. North Carolina leads the nation in the number of board certified teachers by a wide margin and the proportion of board certified teachers in WCS is third highest out of the 115 school districts in the state. A number of the teachers were honored during the Watauga County Board of Education’s November meeting. Not all the teachers were present. AAWmag.com | December 2015
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WOMENINTHENEWS Photo by Erika Giovenetti
Colonel Vickie Hughes keynote speaker for Veteran’s Day Celebrations Retired U.S. Air Force Col. Vickie Hughes — now an associate professor in the Department of Nursing faculty at Appalachian State University — was the featured speaker at ASU’s annual Veterans Day ceremony as well as that at Boone Mall on Nov. 11. Vickie, who retired from the Air Force with 27 years of service, most recently served as commander of the 15th Medical Group at Hickam Air Force Base, chief nurse at Scott Air Force Base and commander of the 383rd Training Squadron at Sheppard Air Force Base in Texas. She was honored with the Defense Superior Service Medal, among several other distinguished accolades.
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WOMENINTHENEWS Boone woman runs 2015 New York City Marathon For Lisa Shelton, the dream of running in the New York City Marathon started a year before the 2015 race in November. She had just completed the Wineglass Marathon in Corning, NY in early October and knew she wanted to run another one. After watching the marathon on TV and seeing thousands of people running the prestigious race, she says, she learned of three ways to make it happen: Qualify, lottery or raise funds for charity. She committed to run with Team for Kids, adult runners from around the world who raise funds for New York Road
Lisa Shelton of Boone runs the New York City Marathon for charity. Photos submitted
Runners, youth programs that benefit kids in low-income schools and community centers throughout NYC and the country. The programs, she says, help to combat childhood obesity and empower youth development via running and character-building. The Team for Kids “Class of 2015” for the NYC Marathon raised more than $5 million dollars, which will benefit 200,000 kids from around the nation. Among Lisa’s fondest memories from the marathon, she says, was meeting some of the youngster who will benefit from the funds. “Some of them spoke to us just before the start of the marathon and told us to have fun and win,” she says. Most did win, in some form or fashion, Lisa says, “No matter how long it took us to cross the finish line.” Lisa’s race was dedicated to the memory of her mother who passed away in 2001. “Her spirit was with me throughout the 26.2 miles and I am certain that my steps were lighter and more assured and determined because of her presence,” Lisa says. “What made it really fun for me was the fact that I was actually running in the worlds largest marathon with over 50,000 other runners through the five boroughs that make up New York City.” The crowds that lined the streets of the course were both amazing and energizing, she says. “However, what made this race even more amazing and special
Lisa Shelton says she couldn’t have completed the race without their love and support of her husband, Dan Shelton, center, and sons, Chris and Walker.
was the fact that my family was part of that crowd and was waiting for me at the finish line I couldn’t have completed this race without their love and support! I won my race in 5 hours, 12 minutes, and 34 seconds.”
sherrie norris Editor, All About Women
AAWmag.com | December 2015
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Sheri Church
Gift of
l ve Sheri Church of Boone has spent the last 20 years, along with her husband, Roger, caring for 91 foster chil-
dren in their home. It’s been a labor of love, she says, and an opportunity that has not been taken for granted. Sheri and Roger were licensed as foster parents in 1994, after which they have cared for children of various age, race, social status and from a variety of domestic situations. Just a few weeks ago, they said good-bye to a little girl, the last one, they say, as their retirement begins. They retired once, in 2010, with 18 years of fostering, and started back two years ago, but Sheri says they must now focus their time and energy upon her aging parents who need her attention. Sheri and Roger are the longest serving foster parents in the county, with the largest number of children, to date. They have been recognized on numerous occasions, locally and statewide, for outstanding service to children in foster care. In 2003, Sheri was also given the state’s coveted Caring Spirit Award, and in 2014, the couple was named Watauga County’s Volunteers of the Year by the local Adult Services Coalition. The awards and certificates mean a lot to them, the couple admitted, but it pales in comparison to the love they give to — and receive from — the children entrusted to their care.
Why foster?
The seed was planted for Sheri as a teenager; her godmother, who had no children of her own, became a foster parent to teenage girls in Watauga County. Some of ‘her girls’ were there for her in her final years,” Sheri says, three when she died. She was impressed, Sheri says, with what the woman did and the impact she had on the girls. In 1994, when the couple’s youngest biological child was 10, “after several discussions,” they decided to become foster parents.
First placement
“Our first child, a little 4-year-old boy had been so continuously abused (both physically and mentally) that he was conditioned not to think for himself, because doing so incurred the wrath of his parents,” Sheri says. “It took him almost three months to come out of his bedroom on his own. Nearly five months later, we could touch him without him flinching. I was in tears the first time he invited my hug.”
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Sheri Church has a special love for all children, as this picture, with Andy and Halee, clearly demonstrates. Photos submitted.
When he left the home two years later, he was all smiles and ready to tackle the world, Sheri adds. “We never saw or heard from him again, but often talk and wonder about him. Still, we feel that he was our greatest success story.” For their first 18 years, they were licensed to keep up to five children. A few times all five of their beds were full, but most often, they had two or three at a time. They are still licensed for up to two children. They’ve welcomed newborn babies, including one born six weeks prematurely, and have kept teens until they “aged out” at 18. A few times, the Churches have kept sibling groups of three and four. Sometimes, the placement just doesn’t work, Sheri says, recalling the young girl, who needing a more structured environment, stayed only four hours. On the other hand, one teen girl came to their home and stayed until she was married. Today, her children call them Nana and Poppie. The couple’s biological son had already married and was on his own when they started fostering. Their daughter considered herself a little mother to the younger children and never wanted them to leave. Among the couple’s “greatest joys,” have been the smiles and laughter of the children, knowing, that for some, laughter does not come easy. Their greatest challenges? Angry children. “They often blame us for removing them from their homes,” Sheri says. “Many of these children come to us so traumatized, they have a hard time functioning in the simplest day-to-day life. Caring for children is easy, Sheri says, it’s the letting go that’s hard.
Sacrificial care
When Sheri hears people say foster parents do it for the money, “I just smile,” she says. “They have no idea. What we receive averages out to less than 65 cents per hour. Out of that, we feed, clothe,
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entertain and pay school expenses. If we go out to eat, take in a movie, an amusement park or vacation, it’s out of our pocket.” Foster parents fill numerous roles, Sheri says — housekeeper, teacher, therapist, nurse, speech specialist, personal chef (many are picky eaters), taxi driver, cheerleader, scary monster patrol (a necessity for abused and traumatized kids), bed wetting patrol and more. Regardless, Sheri adds, “Nothing can take the place of being paid by kisses, hugs and hearing a child tell you he or she loves you.” Foster families are constantly rearranging their homes, the Churches said — putting away youth beds and replacing them with baby furniture and often reversing the process with little notice. What about schedules and routines? “They change with every child,” Sheri says. “Sometimes drastically, sometimes not so much, considering the needs — school, medical and counseling appointments, as well as infants’ sleeping and feeding schedules. The Churches have cancelled vacation trips and special occasions numerous times because they received “the call.”
Helping the children adjust
Maintaining a drama-free household with flexibility is vital, Sheri says. Most children need time to settle in, which varies from hours to days, weeks and even months. “We allow and encourage, them to talk as they need to, but we never pressure,” she says. “And, we teach trust by example. We try to never make (or imply) a promise that we can’t keep and we never lie to them. You can only teach trust and respect by giving it first.” It is vital, too, Sheri explains, to set the rules, up front. “Although they do not always appreciate boundaries, children feel much more comfortable and safer when they know what is expected of them, and what to expect of us,” Sheri adds. It’s important, too, she says, that they try to work with the children’s biological family, as co-parents. “We don’t want them to feel that we are trying to replace them. We encourage our kids to call us Nana and Poppie —never Mom and Dad.” The Churches share stories, school reports and pictures and try to include the birth parents as much as possible. “That way, hopefully, we are not been
Sheri Church and her husband Roger are now “officially” retired from ‘parenting’ since this little girl, their last foster child, recently left their home.
seen as the enemy,” Sheri says. “It also makes things much easier on the children if everyone is getting along and working together.
Support in place
Do foster parents have a good support system? “We work for one of the best, if not the best, agencies in the state,” Sheri describes. “We’re made to feel like one big family and kids are not just numbers on a file.” When visiting social services, the children are greeted by name and asked about their day, school — whatever, Sheri says. “Roberta Yates, our supervisor, is great to plan special events and we get to socialize with other foster parents who really understand each other and can offer advice and support,” she adds. It’s the same for the children, she adds, to spend quality time with their peers and see that they are not alone. The program also provides a monthly foster parent support group and training sessions throughout the year, complete with food, childcare and socialization. According to Sheri, Roberta is the foster parent’s case worker. “We can always call her when we need help or just to vent. She is like a sister to us all. Chad Slage, child protective services supervisor, and the social workers, are always more than willing to help us. We have much love and respect for all of them.” When asked for advice for other foster parents, Sheri says, “Keep a sense of humor, because you are going to need it.” Secondly, remember from where these kids came. “They are not at fault for acting out,”
Sheri says. “It is their self-defense mechanism for what life has thrown at them.” Advice for potential foster parents? “It’s not about making money or looking good,” Sheri says. “It’s a calling that requires a lot of time, patience and dedication. Be sure, before you commit.” Becoming foster parents was the best decision that Sheri and her husband have ever made, she says, and with no regrets. In addition to helping with Sheri’s aging parents, she says, “It’s time to get to know each other again.” When asked what they would like to see changed in the foster care system, Sheri doesn’t hesitate to answer. “I pay as much to board my dog, per night, as the state pays to board its children,” she says. “That says a lot about how little the state values its children. It’s kind of sad, don’t you think?” “Roger and Sheri have truly been a blessing and have positively impacted the lives of so many children,” says Roberta Yates. “They are kind, patient, knowledgeable and wonderful to work with.” Roberta describes Sheri as “the baby whisperer.” “She manages colicky, drug addicted and medically fragile babies with such ease.” Roberta says. “Roger and Sheri both have a wonderful sense of humor that has served them well during some challenging placements. They are not only talking the talk, but they are walking the walk. They believe in contributing toward the betterment of our community and serving others in need. Even though they say they are retiring, I just can’t accept it.” According to Tom Hughes, director of Watauga County Department of Social Serves, the area has been blessed to have Sheri and Roger Church as foster care parents. “They have a passion for serving children in need of a warm and caring home,” Tom says. “They have made positive differences in our community by opening their doors to others.” When asked what makes a good foster parent, Tom instantly thinks of the Churches, he says, “especially, their great attitudes, their enthusiasm, their love for children and their selfless service. They have always gone beyond the call of duty. It’s just who they are.” sherrie norris Editor, All About Women
AAWmag.com | December 2015
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Journey to Christmas
In my other life, as an undergraduate college student, I was a cultural anthropologist and studied ritual and cultural practices that helped to identify the societal constructs of people of various backgrounds. One thing you learn quickly in this field of study is that human beings establish their identity within a group by creating belief systems and practices that frame their lives and mark progression through major life events or celebrations. As Christmas approaches, I am reminded of the things in my own family that are identifiable with this season and how, when some of these rituals or frameworks are missing, it just doesn’t seem like Christmas. While some people have the tradition of putting the tree up the day after Thanksgiving, I cannot begin to start thinking of the tree until we wear ourselves out through two of my children’s birthday parties that occur around Thanksgiving and then on December 7 – Pearl Harbor Day. After that last date, we can start to pull out Christmas decorations and it feels acceptable to start baking Christmas cookies and going Christmas shopping. Trust me, I know the benefits of early shopping from all my friends (you know who you are) that are done with their shopping before my youngest son’s birthday party. Even so, it would not seem like Christmas shopping to me if I weren’t rushing around in the final shopping days. In fact, the store count-downs of how many days left to shop only seem to egg me on in my procrastination — like a clock that I can tempt fate to beat. Alas — maybe one day some of my friends’ early shopping genes will rub off
on me. Despite the many cookies and cakes that grace our break room table at my office during the holiday season, I have to bake my Grandma Bates’ Christmas cutout cookies, or it is not Christmas. These cookies have been a part of my Christmas tradition for as long as I can remember. When I was growing up, we would travel from our home in either Pennsylvania or Virginia up to New York and see both sets of grandparents. There were cut-out cookies at both houses and these were the cookies that we left out for Santa Clause on Christmas Eve. They were not extravagant, but definitely tasty. Store-bought cookies were completely unacceptable for Santa. I make these cookies every year, usually with the help of the kids. In addition to our ritual of baking and putting out food for Santa and the reindeer, Christmas music helps to set the tone for the holiday spirit. If I haven’t been mall shopping, or overwhelmed by too much of the Christmas station at work, I rarely tire of these songs. Of course, at home, the music resurfaces, sometimes clandestinely, since not everyone has an appreciation for Nat King Cole’s “Chestnuts Roasting On an Open Fire” or Burl Ives’ “Holly Jolly Christmas.” I have to admit that I enjoy these songs — I remember my parents putting on the Christmas albums when there were still albums to play. The songs were the backdrop to the season, along with the cookies, and of course watching the old, old versions of Rudolph the Rednosed Reindeer, the Grinch, and Frosty the Snowman. Watching Cartoon Network Christmas specials will forever be disappointing
and make me cringe. Once the mood has been officially set with decorations, music and the cookies, Christmas has typically also had the ritual of travel, much to my son Joseph’s chagrin, who has for the past couple of years asked if we couldn’t just “stay home” for one year. While my parents would understand, as would my mother-in-law, if we shirked travel for the year, I have a definite internal compass for returning “home” to my parents’ house or my mother-in-law’s, to who I am very close. Getting home is part of the ritual. Traveling at Christmastime has its drawbacks. Sometimes, we are actually driving on Christmas day, which can be unfortunate if we fail to remember that there is not a lot of road food to be had when traveling on that day. One year, we stopped at a Chinese buffet to eat before making it to Virginia, which was an odd menu for this time of the year. Regardless, we power through, appreciate the Christmas lights that mark the households which are still home as we travel, and wait to arrive where extended family warmly welcomes us. So, as another year starts drawing to a close, I must admit I’m getting excited about these rituals that have made Christmas special for my family for many years and I will soon dig out that recipe and prepare Santa’s plate with my kids. May your own traditions bring you joy in this holiday season. heather jordan, CNM, MSN Comments or questions? 828.737.7711, ext. 253 landh@localnet.com
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Judy Shomaker and Ronnie Willis —
Standing in the
W
ith equal sincerity, Judy Shomaker
and Ronnie Willis explain that the hardest lessons they’ve learned are the ones that carry the most resonance in their spirits. Judy explains, “If you invest time to help others, it takes the focus off your hurt.” It is this motto of generosity and compassion that guides Ronnie and Judy to facilitate classes for those experiencing the heartbreak of divorce, to work with the youth at their church, to visit the elderly, to help with the choir — and to love unconditionally, as these are the gifts that have been given to them. Ronnie and Judy’s friendship began when their children started school. They recognized they shared many of the same passions: love for children, love for God — and the challenge of being single parents. Finding themselves in a place they did not want to be, Ronnie and Judy helped share each other’s burden of being divorced. Judy says, “I felt like I was a failure, because I had allowed myself to get into a situation that came to divorce.” Ronnie adds, “Being a Christian makes it very difficult to accept divorce.” Further, Judy describes, “Divorce is like a death.
Gap
Judy Shomaker, left, and Ronnie Willis, have teamed together to help others in a variety of ways, including those going through the pain of divorce. Photo submitted.
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There is mourning, grief, guilt, anger and fear. I made sure I got help through Christian counseling.” She explains that her journey included learning more about God’s love and grace. She shares that her broken life began to take on new meaning, as she was made more aware of the powerful love God has for her. Ronnie’s experience is similar. She describes one of the most helpful lessons as, “There are no absolutes. There is hope. There is light.” As their journey on this difficult path of divorce and single parenting continued, Ronnie and Judy became increasingly aware of a need to reach out to others who were experiencing similar hurts. Taking advantage of the opportunity presented to them in the fall and spring of 2013-2014, they participated in “Divorce Care,” a 13-week class started by Steve Grissom to “heal, rebuild, and develop a deepening relationship with God.” Through the class, they learned about the power of forgiveness, how to take responsibility for individual actions, how to overcome feelings of the fear of rejection and experiencing God’s love and perfect timing. Both know that, although “we took the class late,” as they had been divorced for several years when they began the program, the lessons learned proved invaluable. And, as a result, both wanted to make sure people take the class early on — to feel supported — and know they’re not alone. Recognizing a serious need in their community for this kind of care, Ronnie and Judy began facilitating “Divorce Care” classes through churches in both Avery and Watauga counties. Ronnie explains, “I want other people to receive the tools they need to work on these issues and to give people who are hurting a safe place to discuss their hurts and fears.” Judy and Ronnie say they have a race to run and they know that God “sets up people to give you a cup of water to drink in order to complete each of our races.” Both recall times when people lovingly and selflessly held out a “cup of water” for them that was filled with encouragement, support and love. “God has sent guardian angels and the timing was not an accident — it was divine,” says Judy.
‘If you invest time to help others, it takes the focus off your hurt.’ - judy shomaker Part of her healing process, Judy explains, was having to learn how to set healthy boundaries, make healthy choices everyday to make life better for herself. “I had to go through this journey to see God’s grace, and He’s using me to help others,” she says. Likewise, Ronnie says that knowing, “He is there. He is mighty. He is good,” is a constant source of comfort. Both share that they are “so much more fulfilled” when helping others and that they are the ones who are blessed, in the process. Born in Warwick, Va., Judy moved to Elk Park with her parents and two sisters when she was 4-years-old. A graduate of Avery County High School, she received both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in music from Appalachian State University. She spent her career as a music teacher working with students in elementary and middle schools. “Seeing the students relate to the lyrics of certain songs and introducing them to harmony made music even more joyful,” she says. “I loved it when my students would leave the class singing.” As a retired teacher, Judy now enjoys traveling extensively, house and dog
sitting for friends who live at various beaches, and spending time with her children. Her daughter, Laura, lives in Wilmington with her husband, Corey, and Brett, her son, lives in Charlotte with his wife, Caroline. Ronnie grew up in Winston Salem and attended Reynolds High School. A sociology major at Stratford College, she moved to Banner Elk in 1977. She enjoyed managing a health food store, working as a real estate broker and volunteering for 15-plus years in the Banner Elk Elementary School library. Ronnie now enjoys working with the youth at Mt. Calvary Baptist in Banner Elk, as well as spending time with her son, Brooks and his wife, Page, who live in Atlanta. As they continue to work in various capacities at Mt. Calvary with music, Sunday School, the women’s program and with youth, Judy and Ronnie want to be on the side lines giving a cup of cold water to someone else while they race. They want to share the supernatural gifts that have been shared with them. These women realize that the holidays can be a very difficult time for those who have felt the hurts of divorce. As a result of their compassion and commitment in reaching out to their community and those in need, they will continue to stand in the gap for other — during the holidays and beyond. They will be ready with a smile, a word of encouragement and the hard-earned wisdom that there is victory over divorce, they say, through God’s unfailing love. Hollie Greene Hollie Greene is an English teacher who loves stories, words and the mountains of North Carolina.
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youngatheart
All I Want for Christmas is
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“The Force Awakens,” the next chapter in the “Star Wars” saga is being released this month, and millions of fans, girls and boys worldwide, including myself, are excited. Not only excited, but we are also energized, eager and enthusiastic. The anticipation is nearly overwhelming; however, it is not like I spend my days obsessively trolling the internet for the latest news and rumors. Fine, all right, I do. Before we continue, let me take a moment to address what you are likely thinking. “All this hullabaloo over a movie?” you ponder. Oh yes! The “Star Wars” films are much more than just movies; if nothing else, I hope we can agree that the saga has achieved pop culture phenomenon status. For many of us, however, being a fan is like being part of a family – a very large family of heroes, princesses, scoundrels and a scruffy looking nerf herder or two. And, lest you think that I am alone in my fanatical devotion to a bit of celluloid, I can easily name at least 10 others who are equally obsessed, and they can name 10 and they can name 10; a nyway, you get the idea. The original “Star Wars” trilogy, which captured the imaginations of an entire generation, was a huge part of my childhood. And, we were a generation obsessed – George Lucas saw to that – with action figures, Halloween costumes, books and posters, as well as lunch boxes and Underoos. We recreated our favorite scenes on the playground and fought lightsaber battles with flashlights and paper towel tubes. We tried to influence the weak minded with our Jedi powers, we attempted to use the force to move objects and like Yoda, spoke we all. Too young to remember seeing the films in theaters, I do vividly recall the thrill of unwrapping the VHS tapes one long ago Christmas morning. I drove my sister to distraction watching the movies on repeat, memorizing the dialogue and names of each and every obscure character. Those well-loved VHS tapes accompanied me to college, where, much to my delight, I finally experienced “Star Wars” on the big screen when the movies were
re-released to theaters. My friends and I camped out for tickets and arrived costumed for opening night. No one could hear the dialogue over the cacophony of cheers that began with the Lucasfilm logo and continued into the closing credits, but seeing as how the entire audience knew the films by heart, it did not matter. As we became adults, those “Star Wars” obsessed children not only refused to be left behind, but sought to share the experience with the next generation. We hungered for more and the universe continued to expand – into books and comics, cartoons and video games, apparel and expensive models. Search the Internet and you will find any number of “Star Wars”-themed items — from shoes to cookie cutters. And then, we received the ultimate gift: the news that there would be another “Star Wars” trilogy sent shockwaves through the geek community. Information slowly started to trickle out – JJ Abrams, a fanboy himself, would direct and the original stars would return. Speculation about the characters and the storyline began to run rampant. Are any of the new characters Han and Leia’s children? Who, exactly is the new villain, Kylo Ren? Where is Luke and is he evil? Will there be a Jar Jar Binks cameo? As I countdown the days until the premiere date, my palpable excitement is reminiscent of the thrill I felt unwrapping my beloved VHS tapes on that long ago Christmas morning. I eagerly anticipate being in a crowded, noisy theater with my “Star Wars” family, and as the lights dim and the familiar music plays, each of us will know that, to quote Han Solo in the second teaser, “Chewie, we’re home!”
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heather brandon Considers life to be one big anthropological field experience. She observes and reports. She enjoys travel, food and wine and adventures with her husband, Roger.
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Kate Eller: beyond her comfort zone It’s not often that a woman “mans” the lead service advisor desk in a car dealership, but that’s exactly where you’ll
find Kate Eller. Kate has worked at Friendship Honda in Boone since 2007, doing everything from fulfilling orders in the parts department to changing oil and doing brake jobs on cars. “That’s what I really like doing,” she says with a smile.
Kate Eller (below), lead service advisor at Friendship Honda. Photo by Yogi Collins.
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Growing up in northern Massachusetts followed by the Raleigh area, Kate was lured to Appalachian State University by her love of cold weather and her dad’s offer to pay for her education — as long as she went to a university. After two and a half years majoring in criminal
justice at ASU, however, she decided her heart wasn’t in it, she says. As an introvert, she just didn’t feel comfortable in a large university environment. “I pretty much just dropped out and took a few classes at Caldwell Community College,” Kate ex-
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Kate Eller and her church group (above, Kate at left), in April 2015 on their trip to Belize to help build a church building. Photos submitted.
plains. “I was working two or three jobs at a time, then finally called my dad and told him I wanted to learn to work on cars and if he would help me, it would be great, but either way, I was going to try to get into the program.” She did get into the program at Wilkes Community College and felt completely at home there. “I loved going to school at Wilkes and I got my associate’s degree in race engine performance,” she recalls proudly. The surprising part is that while Kate hadn’t had previous opportunities to work on cars, she not only knew it was what she wanted to do, but she knew it was where her many talents lie. “I’ve always just been a tomboy and loved taking things apart and putting them back together,” she says, adding that she enjoyed tinkering on her first car when she was 16 by adding a stereo and learning to change her own oil. While her job is professionally fulfilling and challenging, Kate also has grown personally from it. As a self-proclaimed introverted people-pleaser, engaging customers and communicating sometimes unpleasant news to them can be difficult, but working
in the service department has made her tackle her fears and improve her skills. “It kills me to have to give people bad news,” Kate says, “but I am learning to break out of my shell and be able to express the knowledge I have to others.” Breaking out even further last April, Kate went on an eight-day mission trip to Belize with her church, Whitnell Pentecostal Holiness, in Lenoir. “We built a church there,” she explains. “It was the biggest church they’ve ever worked on. The foundation was poured (when we arrived) and we began building walls. It was exceptionally hot when we were there and would get between 100 and 108 degrees by lunchtime. I’ve just never been a hot weather person.” Working hard and pushing outside of her comfort zone to help people was both rewarding and empowering; Kate appreciates the Belize experience and the confidence she gained through it. In fact, she says, it helps, in her day job in a male-dominated field. Does she ever feel that customers don’t think she knows what she’s talking about because she is a woman? “Yes!” she says. “The most frustrating thing is when men think I’m ignorant
Just one of the many families Kate and her mission team met during their trip.
because I’m a girl.” And, although she has stories she could tell, she remains tight-lipped, recognizing the best thing she can do is to let her work and knowledge speak for her. And they do. Loud and clear.
Yozette ‘Yogi’ Collins Mom, television producer/writer, and obsessive internet researcher. Though her name suggests otherwise, she is not (yet) an actual yogi.
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LivingWell
of
Christmas Holidays are fragrant. The scent of pine, the sweet aroma of a freshly baked pie, pungent peppermint and clean citrus waft through our memories and awaken our emotions. That is how we are designed. When you smell something distinctive, you form nerve connections that intertwine the smell with the emotional and memory centers in the brain. Scents have medicinal value. According Theresa Molnar, executive director of the Sense of Smell Institute, they enhance mood, reduce stress, deepen sleep and stoke cognitive performance. The smells of Christmas are particularly potent.
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The Christmas Tree
Cutting the tree and enjoying it in the house for a few weeks makes Christmas merrier. A Japanese study found that participants who went on a walk through pine forests reported significantly lower depression and stress levels. The research also discovered that anxious subjects had a greater feeling of relaxation after indulging in the scent of pine.
Oranges
There is one more good reason for putting an orange in a loved one’s stocking. Oranges not only provide Vitamin C when you eat them, but sniffing the fruit can help boost energy and alertness.
Candy Canes Did you know that peppermint is an energizer? A small study out of Wheeling Jesuit University found that smelling peppermint could be linked to greater cognitive stamina, motivation and overall performance.
Pumpkin
There might be a reason for those late summer babies. “Throw away the perfume and go get some pumpkin pie,” said Dr. Alan Hirsch, Director of Chicago’s Smell and Taste Treatment and Research Center. The smell apparently drives men wild with desire. According to research, it is particularly potent when combined with the scent of lavender. So remember to breathe deeply during the holidays. It could help to make you — and them — happier than ever.
bonnie church Certified Life and Wellness Coach Author, columist, motivational speaker and certified trainer for TLS Weight Loss Solution
Cinnamon
To help you stay on top of your to-do list, you might want to inhale cinnamon. Researchers from Wheeling Jesuit University studied participants and found that those who took a whiff of cinnamon improved working memory and attention span.
Apples
Do you get a headache from all the holiday prep? You might want to bake an apple pie and sniff the apples as you slice them. One study showed that the scent of apples can noticeably reduce headache symptoms, as well as shorten migraine episodes. Feeling a little anxious? Sniff a green apple. A green apple’s odor helps control anxiety.
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Legacy lives on through
Granny’s cookbook Sabra Townsend as an infant in the arms of her grandmother, Mae Norris.
As a little girl, Sabra Townsend spent a lot of time in her grandmother’s kitchen where she learned a lot. Photos submitted.
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W
atauga County native Sabra Townsend has worked in food-
service for 37 years, specifically at Glenbridge Health and Rehabilitation Center, where she is currently the dietary manager. She has been cooking since she was a child, and has been around food and in the kitchen for as long as she can remember. Sabra loves to bake, and credits her love of baking and cooking as an inheritance from her “Granny,” Mae Norris. Mae, a lifetime resident of Watauga Country, was married at the age of 14 and had two children; only Sabra’s mother survived. Mae loved to cook and did so for a living for many years. Her first job was in the kitchen at Blowing Rock Hospital, followed by years of cooking for a number of elite families in the Blowing Rock area. A friend of hers opened up a pancake house in Blowing Rock, where she cooked until the restaurant was sold. Sabra remembers that Mae was always cooking. While growing up, Sabra says, just walking into her granny’s house and smelling her food, made her feel at home. Mae was more than a grandmother, Sabra says, and refers to her as her “second mama.” “I stayed with her more than I stayed at home,” she recalls. Today, as the mother of two adult children and grandmother of three, Sabra hopes that she is making memories for them, just as her grandmother did
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Sabra Townsend hopes to be a role model to her granddaughter , Hayla Shook, as her grandmother Mae was to her. A treasured possession of Sabra Townsend is her grandmother’s recipe collection.
for her. Unfortunately, she says, Mae never got to know Sabra’s offspring, since she died at the age of 52, when Sabra was in the 10th grade. Sabra remembers that Christmas was Mae’s favorite time of the year, and with that season, always came her nut roll, a treat that Sabra always looked forward to watching her, as well as helping her, to make. “When Granny was cooking, she would set me up on the counter next to where she was working and let me stir and do whatever she could think of to let me help,” Sabra say. “Nut rolls and gingerbread men, included.” Sabra especially recalls that Mae made nut rolls as gifts, and because so many people loved them, she always attached the recipe. Sabra is keeping her grandmother’s long standing tradition alive and makes the nut rolls only at Christmas as a special treat. She’s not sure when it started, but she thinks, perhaps, with her great-greatgrandmother. By time Sabra passes it on to her daughter and granddaughter, she says, it will have covered six generations. It’s hard for Sabra to describe the taste, she says, but the combination of flavors — the raisins, nuts and marshmallows — is delicious, and yes, it reminds her of Christmas and of her granny. Her grandmother passed down other recipes, too, which include her red velvet
pound cake, lemon pound cake, apple pie, coconut cake, butternut pound cake, homemade barbecue sauce and many more. “I have her cast iron skillets and use them for my pineapple upside down cakes,” Sabra says. Sabra keeps the recipes handy and uses them frequently, as a way for her family to stay connected to her grandmother. “Granny would be proud to know that her recipes are still being used,” Sabra says, which, she hopes, will continue for many years. Mae left her cookbook to Sabra, which will also be handed down the line. When Mae died in 1969, Sabra thought her world had ended, but she says, “I know that she is in heaven looking down on me.” It is her hope that Mae would be proud of the woman she has become, Sabra says, and that her daughter, granddaughter and great-granddaughter are using her recipes and keeping them a part of the family. It makes Sabra proud when her family comes to eat and the first thing they say when they come in the door is, “Mom, it smells like home!” Sabra lost her husband in an accident in 2010 and works hard to keep family first and foremost. She enjoys spending time with her children and grandchildren and she loves to travel and read. She especially loves “Gone with the Wind” and even has a room in her home dedicated to that
passion. Sabra will once again continue her family tradition during Christmas by making Mae’s nut roll and giving it as a gift, just as her granny did, who, she says, was a “caring and loving soul.” Mae will always be remembered for the love she poured into her family through her meals and treats and lives on through her recipes, memories made tangible. It is Sabra’s hope that your Christmas will be brighter when you make and share her granny’s special treat. Mae’s Nut Roll 1 (16 oz.) bag of coconut 2½ boxes butter cookies 2 boxes of raisins 1 (16 oz.) bag of chopped pecans 6 large marshmallows Grind the raisins. Cut the marshmallows into small pieces, Grind up the cookies into fine crumbs. Save some of the cookie crumbs enough to cover the nut roll. Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl and add some warm water, a little at a time, just enough to make the ingredients stick together. Roll into a small log shape and roll the log into the cookie crumbs. Wrap in Saran Wrap. Refrigerate. Slice and serve or give as gifts. Caroline Bond Caroline Bond is a woman finding her way through the world with words — speaking, listening and writing. She would love to hear what you have to say, and you can write to her at carolinebond0206@gmail.com.
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Photo by Sherrie Norris
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On stage with
Trimella Chaney has had a lot of drama throughout her career and she wouldn’t have wanted it
any other way. As one of the area’s most beloved drama teachers, Trimella has impacted High Country stages for 40 years, and has had a tremendous influence upon the lives of many youngsters in the performing arts arena. Teaching, Trimella believes, is her life’s main purpose, whether it be in a school, in her church or within her family. “The gifts I have been given seem to lie in that realm,” she says, “and I am grateful for the many opportunities I’ve been offered to teach during my lifetime.” It might have all started for her, as fifth- grader, at Clemmons Elementary in Forsyth County, Trimella says, when she was summoned by the first grade teachers to read stories to their classes during rest time. In college, she was a teacher’s aide during the summer for underprivileged first graders in the Winston-Salem Forsyth County Schools. During her public school teaching career, Trimella has taught fifth grade, eighth grade, high school, college and adult learners. In her church at First Presbyterian
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in Boone, she has taught senior high students in Sunday school and directed church plays for youth and adults; within the community, she has taught adult acting classes through Blue Ridge Community Theatre, as well as the Fleer Center at Salem College in her hometown of Winston-Salem. She has also taught creativity workshops for teachers through the Northwest Resource Center for Educators. When asked about her philosophy for life, Trimella again refers to teaching, and how she sees it as “the most important profession,” citing the late Christa McAuliffe, who said. “We do touch the future.” Teachers should recognize and claim their power, Trimella says. “Making a difference in just one student’s life will have a ripple effect, therefore affecting many.” As few people can argue, Trimella adds, “Our society doesn’t value teachers as much as it should, but I firmly believe that most students value good teachers.” Currently, Trimella says, “Teacher morale is understandably low, but there are many, many teachers who are in the ‘trenches’ fighting against ignorance, discrimination and unhealthy practices for the students.” There are weak and unfit people in every profession, she says, “But, in my
experience knowing teachers, the biggest similarity in all teachers is their collective heart. The need to serve and to care for others is built into their DNA — and that ranges from pre-kindergarten to graduate school.” The keys to being a successful teacher, Trimella, says — and something she has learned from experience and observation — can be found within these following “rules for teaching:”
1. Respect your students. You will receive respect in return. 2. Treating all students the same is the most unfair thing you can do. 3. Cultivate a sense of humor with your students, not about your students. 4. Encouragement is a powerful motivational tool.
The best educational tool It will come as no surprise to those who know Trimella that she believes the single best educational tool is theatre, at any level.
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that they became acquainted. Butner, who believed in the education of “It promotes active learning, appreciaSoon, the duo became sweethearts and women and the importance of music and tion of history, responsibility, creativity eventually, the popular handsome athlete art in everyday life,” she explains. “One of and self-discipline,” she says. “Early in my and the beautiful cheerleader began datmy treasured possessions is the book of teaching career, I discovered that using ing; they were married in 1973. poetry she gave to my great-grandfather theatre in my language arts classroom “And, here we are, 42 years later, as as a wedding present in 1889.” caused successful content learning.” happy as we can be,” she says. For these obvious reasons, Trimella Even as a student teacher, Trimella says, she cherishes the Moravian Lovefeast used a play to teach mythology and recalls that her church in Boone has presented her supervising teacher’s comment: “If I’d to the community for many years, “I am have known that it was going to be this Trimella received her bachelor’s grateful for those ‘Moravian sisters’ who good, we would have done this for the degree in education at Appalachian State have worked so diligently over the years PTA!” University in 1973 with a concentration in to retain this special tradition.” Another favorite comment from a language arts, followed four years later by Each time she serves as a “diener” parent, Trimella says, came when she was her master of arts in education. In 1990, (server of the coffee and buns), she directing a musical at the high school and she completed her certification in theater imagines that many of her ancestors have heard that a mother had told her bridge arts through ASU and Lees-McRae Colserved in the same capacity, including the club that her son “had learned responsibillege. first Trimella. ity in the theatre department.” Her teaching career kicked off at Whether she taught in elementary Pope Air Force Base in Fayetteville, or middle school, Trimella used thewhere she taught sixth grade for one atre as a tool for learning, and not just year before returning “home,” to teach content, she says, “but also, life skills.” fifth grade at North Intermediate Trimella also implemented within School in Winston Salem. her theater classes a number of those Upon moving to Boone, Triskills, including coping with disapmella found her niche in the Watauga pointment, supporting classmates, County Schools system, first with honoring deadlines and respecting 11 years (1975-1986) at Hardin Park differences. Elementary, where she taught eighth“I found high school theatre to grade language arts. From 1986 – be a real clique buster,” she says. “Re2005, Trimella was the well-loved and spect grows among different types of Trimella Chaney loves interacting with her students, as she is shown respected drama teacher and chair students when a successful produchere with Courtney Evans and Adriana McCassim at Appalachian of the drama department at Watauga tion is mounted.” State University. Photo by Mike Helms High School. Trimella counts as her greatest Following her retirement in 2005, professional joy the opportunity given by Trimella was an only child who had a she stayed busy with various community Jim Daye to start a theatre department at very happy experience growing up in a projects and directed a number of plays WHS. home with wonderful parents. “I was alfor Blue Ridge Community Theatre and “And, now, my joy is watching it grow,” ways surrounded with a lot of great aunts, Appalachian State University, as well as she says, “under the gifted teaching and uncles, cousins and friends,” she says. for her church and for a hospital fundinspired direction of Sarah Miller, who She was “very blessed,” she adds, to raiser. calls me her ‘Drama Mama.’ I was so have been given the opportunities to In 2008, Trimella was asked to teach happy when Greg Pope joined me on enjoy school and extracurricular activities, for one semester in the ASU Department staff at WHS in the early 90’s, and I am such as dance and cheerleading. of Theatre and Dance. certain that Sarah is just as thrilled with Trimella aspired, from childhood, to be “I’m still there and how lucky am I having Zach Walker become a part of the a teacher. to be a part of such a great department,” department, now. Definitely, good things “I always played school with my dolls, she says. “They have welcomed me as an are ahead for WHS Drama with those two lining them up just as if they were my adjunct instructor and encouraged my students,” she says. at the helm.” creativity, both in teaching and directing. She met Neville Chaney when they I am convinced that ASU is producing the were in the eighth grade. very best teachers for the next generation. “We both had gone to different I recognize in them that special DNA that elementary schools, but met when we is needed to be successful in education.” entered a consolidated junior high,’ she Trimella’s maternal ancestors were One of her favorite responsibilities is recalls. “Our mothers were in PTA and part of the first Moravian settlers who the directing of the “First Year Showcase,” enjoyed working together; one day, my came to the Wachovia tract of land (cura show for and about the incoming stumother asked if I had met ‘that little rent Winston Salem) seeking religious dents, either freshmen or transfer. Chaney boy,’ and said he was ‘so nice.’” freedom. “I enjoy working with the ‘newbies’ and It was when Neville’s mother invited “My name, Anna Trimella, is from my welcoming them into our department,” Trimella to her son’s 14th birthday party great-grandmother, Anna Trimella Hege
Education
Deep rooted in history
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she says, adding that, in last friends a girl can ask for.” year’s show, she directed Trimella’s family is a the son of a former eighthhuge supporter of App State grade Hardin Park student and Wake Forest sports and who had moved away from enjoys attending games Boone. together. But, she says, she also But, what she enjoys enjoys teaching theatre to most of all, she says, is, simnon-theatre majors, “Beply time with her family. cause, I hope to ‘infect’ them “My husband, Neville, is with the love, and at the very a wonderful husband, father, least, an appreciation for grandfather and businesstheatre, so that they will be man,” she says. “He has life-long theatre–goers.” always been supportive of Our society needs active my career in teaching, both theatre practitioners and emotionally and physically. Christmas is a special time to Trimella Chaney, especially as she recalls how her audiences to question, to There are times when he late parents, aka Mr. and Mrs. Santa Clause, pictured here, brought much joy not only to their family, but to many children in their community and hospitals. express, to entertain and never knows who will be at Photo by Sherrie Norris to move to action future our dinner table for convergenerations, Trimella says. sation and support.” Board of Directors, NC Department of “Theatre is a powerful human form of Neville has driven vans, trucks and Public Instruction Theatre Arts Curricucommunication in a digital age.” cars during touring shows, unloaded and lum Committee and the NC Theatre Arts She also enjoys teaching “Cultivatloaded countless sets, and has paid for Educators. ing Creativity,” because, she says, “I truly many “extras” needed at the time for a Trimella’s hard work and dedication feel that we, as teachers, need to nurture play or a classroom activity, Trimella says. have not gone unnoticed throughout her creativity in our students.” The couple’s sons, Nathan and Jacob, career, as she has received numerous The information age is drawing to a were both involved in the drama departawards and honors, including the Theatre close and we need future citizens who are ment at WHS, Nathan, technically, and Educator of the Year in 2012, presented by problem solvers, she says. “Freeing the Jacob, in performing. the NC Theatre Conference. students to explore their creativity in this “Both are seasoned audience members Among others, she has received the university class is so rewarding for me. and continue to support my theatrical Outstanding Young Educator’s award Ideas and solutions explode in that class. endeavors,” she adds. in Watauga County Schools, (twice) and While I am a rule-follower, I believe that The Chaneys have welcomed into their The Education Award from Lees McRae we must be very careful about legislating family two accomplished and wonderful College. the spontaneity and the ‘teachable mo“daughters,” she says, “Holli (Sink) and She was delighted, when, in 2005, a ment’ out of the daily classroom. Sara (Gold).” group of former students at WHS founded “The sparkle in our life now is our The Trimella Chaney Drama Scholarship. granddaughter, Hampton (3 years old),” Trimella says, while saying they have just received the news that each of their sons and their wives are expecting baby boys in Since 2010, Trimella has served on the the spring. ASU Department of Theatre and Dance “I have now taught generations of As her “family historian,” Trimella Advisory Board, and since 2003, as the students and I love being in a community has gained much knowledge through her High School Theatre Arts Adjudicator for where I can see students as adults,” she membership in the National Society of the the N.C. Governor’s School, where she has surmises. “We are so blessed and we really Daughters of the American Revolution. also served on the board as chairperson. do live in a great place.” When asked about her “hobbies,” In the early 200’s, Trimella served on Trimella says she greatly appreciate Trimella says that not only does she enjoy the Board of Directors for the NC Theatre this community for the support it has working in theatre, but she also enjoys Conference, and has, since 2001, served as shown her in all her endeavors, as well as attending theatre productions, writing and the NC Assessor for Initially – Licensed the support her family receives through its reading. Teacher Products. business at W. J. Office. For more than a decade, she has enTrimella is currently a member of the joyed a close camaraderie with “The Pearl High Country Theatre League, NC AssoGirls,” a local and “very active book club,” ciation of Educators and Blue Ridge Comshe describes, which meets once a month munity Theatre, ex-officio board member. sherrie norris to discuss a book, but every Tuesday She has also been a member of the morning for breakfast. Editor, All About Women Appalachian Theatre Project Board ‘We are a very tight group,’ she says of Selection Committee, Delta Kappa with a warm smile. ‘Some of the best Gamma, Watauga County Arts Council
Service and organizations
Free time, family time
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marriageandFamilyCorner
More
‘Tis the season of giving and receiving. Or, is it the season
of sacrifice and duty? ‘Tis the season of abundance. Or, is it the season of excess or deficiency? ‘Tis the season of cheer. Or, is it the season of distress? During this holiday season, it is wise to examine how we give and receive. Giving and receiving cheerfully, in the spirit of joy and peace, creates more — either more of what is being given, or of something that will matter even more. Givers might appear quite friendly, or
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even festive, even when they are experiencing distress, or are not tending to their own needs in some fundamental way. These givers are depleted by the way they are giving. A lack of self-care by the giver might turn giving into a burden, because there are not enough emotional, material or other reserves to meet basic needs. On the contrary, cheerful giving replenishes or uplifts the giver, even when the giver makes a sacrifice. I recently read a version of this AlAnon statement: “Learn to give from
overflow, rather than from reserves. In this self-care, we learn to let go of burdens we were never meant to carry.” Giving from overflow doesn’t necessarily mean never giving something that we will notice is gone. But, when we give that which flows over from us, we often share what is best of us. In the sharing, we increase the flow. This type of giving is wonderful self-care and it refills our reserves. It helps create a steady overflow from which we may continue this joyful cycle. Ironically, the more we give in this way,
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the more we have for ourselves — and, the more we have to give. We carry many burdens because we don’t take care of ourselves. We carry many burdens because we engage with our distress more than we notice and build our abundance. At times, finding overflow can be a challenge, especially when stress is high. We may need to first replenish, or heal, before overflow returns. Or, we might also be distracted from seeing overflow because of something we don’t have. Focusing on what we don’t have to offer might prevent us from seeing what we do have. For example, a burden might be carried by a giver who wants to give something to a receiver with more material means than the giver. After all, the receiver may be able to buy a much nicer replacement for anything that might be offered. But, the giver may refocus and give from her abundance. Thoughtfulness, creativity, humor or understanding might overflow from the giver for a gift that the receiver enjoys — and by which the giver’s life is made better, in some way. As you review your gift list to offer what is meaningful to the recipient, be mindful of what is overflowing for and from you. If your overflow includes financial means, being generous with it can be very rewarding from you and to the receiver in many ways. But, regardless of your financial means, or lack thereof, be sure to broaden your view to other abundance. To do that requires honesty about your strengths and resources. It won’t work if you settle for saying, “I wish I had (fill in the blank), because then I would (fill in the blank).” Instead, ask yourself “What sort of gifts have I most valued receiving” and “What sort of gifts have I most valued giving?” Last month, I wrote about the importance of knowing you have enough and that you are enough. This month, I want to encourage you to give more. What delightful creations we are that those ideas are not contradictory. In fact, they are dependent upon one another. Enjoying what you have and who you are allows you to give freely from what is both your sufficiency and your abundance.
‘Enjoying what you have and who you are allows you to give freely from what is both your sufficiency and your abundance.’ - Mary McKinney This freedom allows cheer in giving and fills your reserves and increases your overflow. During this holiday season, I wish you enough. And, I wish you more. For comments on this article or suggestions for future articles, contact:
MARY MCKINNEY, MA, LMFT McKinney & Associates Marriage and Family Therapy, Inc. 828-268-0155 For urgent matters and first-time callers: 828-773-5463 www.mckinneymft.com
®
follow us on at chick-fil-a of boone 828-264-4660 • 2082 Blowing Rock Rd • Boone, NC • www.cfarestaurant.com/boone/home
AAWmag.com | December 2015
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HEARTFELT GIFTS
The Soul of Giving
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“Sue, you could be paid for your writing. You should not be
writing for free. It’s time to begin asking for compensation for your wonderful articles,” Katerina, my writing guru, declares. I have to smile. Who is Katerina to dispense such advice, Katerina, who gives freely of her precious time to critique, lead, teach, inspire and cajole all of us women in her Valle Crucis writers’ group? Katerina, who would never think of asking for a penny for all her lovingly-given encouragement. Katerina, who, indeed, has been the catalyst for half of the articles I’ve written! What a gift! Women who have impressed me the most are those who give some amazing, heartfelt gifts. Some are simple and spontaneous. Others take a great deal of thought and effort. A memoir-writing workshop I guide welcomes Trish, an eager writer whose hands are so badly hurt that she can barely use them. Her husband types her “life story in twenty minutes” poem, which she shares, to everyone’s delight. Rather than depend on her husband to type all her assignments, Trish decides one session with our group is enough. The next week, she stops in for a moment with gifts for me: a handmade card, a tea ball spoon and aromatic loose tea, a serendipitous thank-you gift to me for guiding the group. On an adventure trip, “Christmastime on the Seine,” from Paris to Normandy, I meet April, an English transplant to California. Enjoying our new friendship, we have dinner together nearly every night. Two weeks after I return home, a big box arrives in the mail: a dozen wrapped packages from April, including a Paris journal and plenty of dark chocolate. Christmas gifts! When I fall on black ice and break my leg, I receive lots of cards, emails, phone calls, books and flowers. But, the gift I remember most is a quirky one, a huge carton of Girl Scout Thin Mints, a whole winter’s supply, sent by two Florida friends. Sweet treats, indeed. Some gifts are big and have a farreaching impact. Many years ago, an organization called Senior Scholars, sponsored by Appalachian State University, began offering older community
members a varied menu of trips, classes, workshops and hikes for $130 per year. When the university dropped the program three years ago, a determined group of women and two men pulled together a new incarnation called High Country Lifelong Learning, a free forum planned mostly for retired persons. Generous ASU professors and talented High Country residents give of their time to speak, teach and lead hikes and workshops. What a beautiful gift: to share one’s knowledge of quilts, ancient civilizations, the 1840s, African safaris and dozens of other topics. WIDIA (What I Do Is Art) began in order to honor a woman named Marnie, an artist and craftswoman whose talent never had a chance to blossom before her death. It is a week-long artist and writer residency in May, a gift to six to eight women, at the retreat center I guide. Each woman has her own room or cabin, three daily meals, and all day, every day, to work on her art or writing. In its 15 years, WIDIA has served some 95 women. My friend Diane owns a lovely, sprawling farm filled with llamas, Concord grapes, shiitake mushrooms, crazy chickens and a friendly pig. She welcomes all comers to tour the farm and receive llama kisses. Kids’ groups, college interns and older folks, alike, come to learn about how a farm works and to bask in the hospitable atmosphere. Another friend, Diann, is a countercultural wonder. Living on Social Security, she writes and sends quarterly newsletters to 100 women and to 100 children, from toddlers to teens. She supports 30 causes quarterly — women’s rights, political, environmental, children, Native American, African American and women’s health. She comes for a visit, bearing gifts for the soul (dark chocolate, gourmet chips and angel-hair pasta), makes and sends greeting cards and creates recipes and cooks healthy meals. For trick-or-treat, instead of candy, she passes out treasures: notebooks, stickers, crayons and coloring books. Diann sponsors three children, in India, Brazil, and Zambia, with Children’s International, composts and recycles all but one small bag of trash biweekly, lis-
tens to women who need an ear and tries to find homes for items people are going to toss. Whew, gifts galore. Marian and Tina, seeking adventurous travel, signed up for a one-month stint with Global Volunteers in Uganda. It turned out to be a 10-year-and-counting volunteer project, working with Ugandan village women to create a children’s library, a mobile clinic, a microbusiness organization/bank for 100 women, a community center and school sponsorships for 40 children. Talk about gifts! Gift-givers hang out everywhere I look, from my friend Joyce, who stops in with quarts of farm-processed maple syrup, to Kathleen who yearly offers a bumper crop of butternut squash. Or Claudia, who provides us with little tomato and pepper plants she’s grown from seed. Or Birch, who does small carpentry jobs around the retreat center. Or Kath and Judy, who give loving care to our dog Ginger, whenever a crisis arises. This holiday season is a good time to reflect on how we can become true gift-givers. Think of a gift that is uniquely you. Is it your sticky buns (my mother’s specialty), your fruit pies or your jalapeno jelly? Can you write, draw or paint? A story or poem about your family, a framed drawing, a little album of photos or a handsome greeting card would be treasured. What gift of yourself could you give? A dinner party you’ve planned and prepared, an invitation to join you on a spontaneous hike or lunch excursion, a CD of, or tickets to hear, your newly-discovered favorite bluegrass band? Best of all are the gifts that are totally unexpected, just because. Sure, I could be paid for my writing. And Katerina could be paid for her loving care and expert advice. But, we would be missing the greatest joy of all: giving what we treasure the most to those we love. Or, better yet, to those who would never have expected such a gift.
sue spirit Writes poetry and essays about nature, spirituality, writing, and travel. She has a little cabin in the mountains. degreesoffreedom@frontier.com
What gift of yourself could you give? AAWmag.com | December 2015
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How to Handle the
Holidays
With crisp air swirling and the calendar pages getting shorter, we can feel the holidays
closing in. There are so many parties to attend, outfits to plan, schedules to coordinate, homes to decorate and meals to prepare. It can be a joyous time for many, filled with family and friends, fun moments that turn into fond memories. At the same time, the joy and festivities can sometimes feel like chaos or stress for the mastermind behind it all, but, it doesn’t have to.
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Children are often bombarded with holiday expectations thrown on them by the media and well-meaning friends and family. By talking with your immediate family about their personal expectations, you can create a family plan.
Consider what is most important to you. What memories will
Call a private family meeting and plan out ahead of time a few events or ideas the whole family feels is important to participate in. Make clear decisions as a team about how you want to spend your time and resources.
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you look back on when the season winds down? Are there traditions that you want to keep? What can you let go of to make space for creating a new family tradition? If there is a function or tradition that your family is clamoring for, plan early how you can make extra time for it. Recognizing what you expect from the upcoming season is one thing, but we all have family, friends, and colleagues who may have other expectations. Go ahead and have conversations with the key people in your life about their expectations and where you might be able to negotiate. Sometimes, a little advance planning helps you understand where you can trim off in other areas. If there is an event that nobody is interested in, be ready to respond with a polite “no thank you” when the time comes. Tell people in advance if you or your family will not be participating in a current family tradition. Be open and upfront about how your family will be spending time together. Your parents will take it much better from you than from your partner, so be thoughtful in who and how you share your news. Even the most well-meaning conversations can leave you in a tailspin when other people feel like they have been slighted. Try to remember that everyone has their own idea of what the holidays consist of. You can still be a good friend and keep your cool by remembering that most people are just trying to feel like their needs are being met. Even if someone is being rude or insensitive, it is likely that they are struggling to find their own balance, or that they feel as if their needs are not being validated. Instead of focusing on how a situation or person “should be,” accept it as it is. Find a way to be compassionate, while maintaining your boundaries. Knowing that children thrive on routine and predictability, take a realistic look at your schedule. Is there quiet family time built in? Are the children able to eat and sleep at roughly the same times each day? Try to stick to regular meal and bedtime schedules as much as possible. This will help children feel secure which in turns means happier children and less chance of a meltdown. It may not always be possible to avoid scheduling mishaps, but planning ahead
with snacks and quiet time can help children feel more in control during the busier times. Spending quality family time can be hard to fit in around a hectic holiday schedule. One way to protect some QT with the family is to get creative with your gift giving. Instead of spending hours searching through stores and online websites, find ways to make gifts of coupons for experiences with one another. Consumer Reports show that over 49 million people re-gift, exchange, or sell their gifts. Instead of spending time and money on an item that may not stay with the intended, think, instead, of how to enjoy quality time with that person. Games are a fun way to connect and laugh with others. A good game can engage your mind, body and imagination, while providing an entertaining way to be present in the moment with others.
journey. We offer series of classes which focus on a small age range, so parents get a deep understanding of where their child is developmentally and what their next stages might look like. We have one-time seminars, which focus on positive parenting. If you are looking for something a little more specific to your family or child’s needs, we offer one-on-one parenting guidance, too. There are parenting support groups, a lending library of books and learning materials and a diaper bank for families in need. There truly is something for everyone. However you choose to spend your time with your family over the next month, remember that it is all the little moments that make the fondest memories. Be present in the moment. After all, it is your holiday season, too, and you should be able to enjoy it!
At the Children’s Council, we not only recognize, but celebrate the unique culture of each family. We provide a variety of free and low cost services to meet families where they are in their parenting
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Top left, Today, Katrina is involved in many volunteer aspects and enjoys helping others whenever she can. Above, Katrina’s husband Calvin was a great support to her during her college years. Left, Although it was a difficult road, Katrina’s hard work resulted in her completing her degree in 1993. Photos submitted.
Katrina Miller:
A Dream Never Forsaken For some, college is simply the next step after high school, a time to explore new things
and grow into adulthood. For Katrina Miller, college was so much more and exemplified a determination and passion for learning which she’s possessed since childhood. Although her desire to further her education was strong, life did not make things easy and Katrina’s dream of achieving a college degree was postponed for nearly 45 years. After graduating from West Jefferson
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High School in 1950, Katrina attended Lees-McRae College in Banner Elk, during which she married her first husband, Bobby, who had enlisted in the Navy. Although she enjoyed college, Katrina was able to complete only one year. During his enlistment, Bobby was stationed at the naval base in Virginia, and, naturally, Katrina followed. Upon completion of his enlistment, the couple returned to Ashe County. But, because they now had two little girls, Sandra and Kina, returning to college was out of the question. Instead, Katrina
turned her mind towards finding a job. “We had to have money,” she says. Katrina ended up working for the Ashe County Board of Education, where she became the finance officer, a job she truly enjoyed and stayed with until retirement, 45 years later. Although she loved her work, Katrina always felt something was missing. “I wanted my degree, especially since I worked in education,” she says. For this reason, she began taking various night courses at Wilkes Community College and later at Appalachian
December 2015 | AAWmag.com
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State University. But, because of her busy work schedule, she was only able to take classes sparingly. “I took classes as I could,” she says. “I would work during the day, take my classes at night and study whenever possible.” After taking numerous night classes at Appalachian, Katrina was told she had taken all the night classes offered which pertained to her degree. She was also told, that in order to continue, she would be required to attend day classes. Because of her work schedule, that was impossible. So she began exploring other options to complete her degree. Unfortunately, circumstances temporarily blocked her path. In 1974, after the death of her father, A.B Vannoy, Katrina was left completely in charge of his ham business. Then, just five years later, Katrina’s husband died, which left her with many familial responsibilities. Nonetheless, when Katrina married her second husband, Calvin, in 1981, the path was re-opened for her to attend college. “Calvin was a big help to me,” she says. “He helped run the ham business and, together, we made it work.” With her load slightly lifted, Katrina began working to complete her degree with Lees-McRae, where she had started over 30 years prior. “The college was wonderful,” she says. “They worked out a program for me to take all the classes that I needed at night.” Although Katrina was finally pursuing her dream, the road was not always easy. “I never wanted to quit,” she says. “But, sometimes I would be so tired that I would say, ‘why are you doing this to yourself?’ I would get exhausted from no sleep and then worry about it all, but I knew I wouldn’t stop.” This determination and drive pushed Katrina past those difficult times and resulted in her dream finally becoming a reality. In 1993, after years of slowly, but firmly pushing toward her goal, Katrina graduated from college with her bachelor’s degree. But, Katrina’s drive not only resulted in her obtaining her degree. Because she always pushed herself and never settled for anything less than an A grade, Katrina found herself graduating Suma Cum Laude.
‘I never wanted to quit, But sometimes I would be so tired that I would say, “why are you doing this to yourself?” I would get exhausted from no sleep and then worry about it all, but I knew I wouldn’t stop.’ - Katrina Miller “I was thrilled I had done so well,” she says with a smile. “I was not expecting it.” The joy Katrina felt after completing her degree is evident in her pictures from that day. “I was relieved and very satisfied,” she says. Looking back, Katrina does not regret her choice to go back to school. “I couldn’t have moved up in my work without my degree,” she says. She was later promoted to assistant superintendent within the financial bounds of the Board of Education. This was later followed by another promotion to associate superintendent. Even though Katrina’s school days are now behind her and she has retired, she still looks back on her college years with fond memories. “It was a great experience,” she says. “Lees-McRae was very supportive. I enjoyed it all and had some wonderful professors. I enjoyed learning new things and the challenge of it all.” But, Katrina says, the college was not the only support force she had; her family
also backed her 100 percent “When your family backs you, it’s great,” she says. “My girls never doubted that I could do it. They thought it was a great thing.” She continues by saying, “I couldn’t have done it without Calvin’s support. There would’ve been no way to do it if there had been any doubt in my mind that he had not wanted me to go. He was most generous and encouraged me. That meant so much to me.” Calvin not only took over many household chores for her, but also drove her to and from college on nights when the weather was bad. His support continues to this day as he watches her dash off to the many volunteer outlets with which she is involved. Among her activities include the Board of Trustees at Wilkes Community College, the local District Health Department Board, the Hospital Foundation Board, county volunteer committee, a proctor for the credit union, as well as volunteering at the hospital, visiting Margate and being a member of First Baptist Church in West Jefferson, alongside her husband. “Calvin says I can’t say no, when someone asks me to do something,” Katrina says with a smile. It is easy to see she is determined to get the most out of life and enjoys encouraging others to do the same. When asked what she would say to someone who was thinking about going back to college, she states, “I would encourage anyone who really wants to have a degree to go for it. I think earning that degree is something you will always cherish, I know that if you really want it, you are going to regret it if you don’t go.” She continues, “There is such satisfaction not just in the degree, but in the learning you experience.” Although Katrina’s road to earning her degree was one full of trials and road blocks, she never gave up. Her story should be an inspiration for all to never give up on dreams and to pursue them with passion and determination until the goal is finally achieved.
Noelle Miller A freelance writer who enjoys writing human interest, persuasive and creative/descriptive works. She is also a public speaker, communications assistant, and active member of Generation Excellent.
AAWmag.com | December 2015
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BEAUTY
Get Your
Holiday
glow On the Following are 10 tips to help you achieve and maintain that glamorous glow all season long:
Y
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es, the holiday season is upon us and along with
it comes shopping, cleaning, cooking, celebrating and a multitude of stressors. If that’s not enough, factor in the harsh wintry weather and you have the perfect combination for stressed out skin. Changes in season are always a stress on the skin and, particularly so, in our neck of the woods here in the High Country — snow and freezing temperatures wreak havoc on the skin. If you are aiming for glowing, dewy and sparkly, you could wind up with dark circles, zits and parched skin. The better you prepare for this season, the better you’re going to look going into and coming out of the holidays.
December 2015 | AAWmag.com
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1
Bump up your moisturizer. Now that it’s getting
colder, you are changing up your wardrobe. Likewise, you need to make seasonal changes to your skin-care wardrobe, also. If you’ve been using one with a gel base, move up to a lotion. If you’ve been using a lotion, step up to an oil-based cream that is richer and more emollient. If you’re really dry, try using your night cream in the day.
2 3
Do not use alcoholbased toners or products that strip. Use deeply
hydrating masks and avoid clay masks, unless you are extremely oily.
Invest in a humidifier.
A few winters ago, I woke up in the morning feeling like my nasal passage had experienced a sandstorm — dry,dry. I placed a humidifier in my bedroom and discovered that not only did my dryness cease, but my skin was more soft and supple. Lack of moisture in the air can also cause dark circles under the eyes. We are indoors way more in the winter and whether it’s wood, oil, electric or gas, the bottom line is, heat dries.
4 5 6 7
Stay hydrated. Drinking water should be something you do for health. It won’t plump up your skin, but it will give your body what it needs to take care of internal workings and, thereby, benefit your skin. Slather on sunscreen.
Yes, I know the sun feels so good on those days that make you shiver. Don’t be fooled. Those UV rays are still coming down, and snow on the ground reflects 80 percent of the sun’s light. Don’t forget to reapply.
Keep those lips “kissing soft.” Please do not
stand under the mistletoe if you have puckered, dry, peeling and painful lips — no one will kiss you. Gently exfoliate your lips with a baby-soft toothbrush and treat with a good lip balm.
8
Cut the long hot showers. They feel great, but the
truth is, that wonderful hot shower opened your pores so moisture can escape, thus leaving you with dry, itchy skin. Treat your body by slathering on oil while skin is still damp, then blotting (not rubbing) dry. I use oil from the grocery store: sunflower, grapeseed, coconut and others.
Give your hands a hand.
There are fewer oil glands in the skin on your hands; couple that with the frequency with which our hands are washed, and that is a recipe for dry hands. Pamper those hands with lotions and creams, also. Wear gloves to protect them from the harsh cold.
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Forgotten feet. Summer is over and the sandals are put away. Don’t forget to pamper those hard-working feet. Where would we be without them? Keep them exfoliated and well moisturized. Give them special treatment by piling on the greasy stuff and donning socks for the night. From the inside out. Eat well. Watch
the caffeine and alcohol intake. Happy holidays. Stay beautiful!
Marion Edwards Marion Edwards is a Licensed Esthetician, Professional Makeup Artist and Certified Trainer for Motives Cosmetics. She can be contacted at (828) 262-5954.
AAWmag.com | December 2015
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Surviving the Holidays The holiday season is squarely upon us. The holidays
party, but it’s also your one night to spend quality time with your children, just say “no” and wish her a good time.
can be wonderful, but everything doesn’t always go smoothly. Maybe you are nominated to organize the office Christmas party, or don’t have enough time to take your daily walk, or find yourself gaining unwelcome weight. According to our friends at Pathways Counseling and Wellness, there are a few things we can do to make the most of the holiday season, while becoming and remaining the healthy and vibrant people we are meant to be.
3.
To start off with, make a list ahead of time of all potential holiday plans. The office party – write it down. The extravagant dinner at your aunt’s house – write it down. The tacky Christmas sweater party with your buddies – write it down. Then, once you’ve got a complete list, choose the ones that you most want to do, and which you choose to be optional. If you need to, you can opt out of some of them, but if you write them down, you know what you have to work with.
4.
1.
2.
Say “No,” when you need to. “No,” is a complete sentence. If you have someone who’s being pushy, instead of making excuses, just be real with the fact that it’s not in the best interest of yourself or your family to do it. Give yourself permission to decline when it will cause you to be too stressed to enjoy the rest. When an acquaintance tries to convince you to come to her holiday
Sometimes, taking care of yourself and your family might require you to cut a trip short. Be clear about the length of a visit when family and friends come to visit you, as well as when you go visit others. Be honest with those you are close to. Most likely, they would rather you be honest about you needing to take time for yourself, then take on too much for their sake. Just like it takes work to take care of others, it takes work to take care of you, too.
Sometimes, we go and go with no end in sight. This is especially true during the holiday season. While on the path of going, don’t end up going all the way to exhaustion and holiday burnout.
5.
Plan for down time and build margins into your schedule that will allow you to decompress and leave time for spontaneity. Sometimes, unplanned time is the most memorable. Think of your favorite memories – how many of them were planned and how many of them were a moment in time that you just happened upon?
6.
Families grow and change and this can cause family traditions to grow and change. It is OK. Be open to new family traditions and hold on to some old ones. Every change in a family will create a ripple that will impact
This information brought to you as a “gift” by the professionals at Pathways Counseling and Wellness:
Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, Registered Play Therapist, Nationally Certified Counselor,
-Elaine Wittmann, MAEd: Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, Approved Clinical Supervisor, Nationally Certified Counselor
-Robert Robinson: Licensed Acupuncturist, Diplomate in Oriental Medicine, NM Licensed Doctor of Oriental Medicine
-Miki Gordon, PhD: Licensed Professional Counselor, Nationally Certified Counselor -Jacqueline Aldridge, MA:
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more than just the new baby being born, or the sister who is getting divorced. Acknowledge those ripples and be open to the fact that things can change, but still be good.
7.
When our physical bodies are healthy, we feel better. Holiday celebrations often come with food, so it is important to plan and choose wisely in order to remain healthy and balanced. If you’re going to a big holiday celebration, eat in a balanced way throughout the day so you won’t show up with an empty stomach, which leads to overeating. This will also allow you to eat slowly and enjoy the food. Save room for the meal, rather than consuming a lot of excess alcohol and appetizers. Fill up on low-calorie beverages and stay hydrated. Choose a small plate and don’t crowd it. By eating smaller portions, you can enjoy the tempting foods you really want. After you eat the meal, take a walk. It’s a great way to help your food settle, as well as your mind.
8.
The holidays don’t have to be perfect. Be realistic about the fact that holidays are going to have their ups and downs as much as any time of year, if not more. Keep things light and go with the flow. Just simply enjoy. Caroline Bond Caroline Bond is a woman finding her way through the world with words — speaking, listening and writing. She would love to hear what you have to say, and you can write to her at carolinebond0206@gmail.com.
-Kim Dansie, MD, psychiatrist Pathways Counseling and Wellness is located in Banner Elk. To reach Pathways, you can visit their website at www.pathwayscw.com or call at (828) 898-4145.
December 2015 | AAWmag.com
11/23/15 8:35 AM
Things we Love
Last Minute Christmas Haven’t had time to shop? Our local retailers have everything you need to make your loved ones smile.
FINE JEWELRY Obaku Danish Watch Design Starting at $99. Design and Repair, Estate Jewelry, Fine Art. Old World Galleries. 697 W. King Street, Boone. 828-264-6559. oldworldgalleries.com
THE UMBRELLA. REINVENTED. Store your wet umbrella in the bottle and forget about drips and drops. You and all your belongings stay dry! Carry it on your wrist, or conveniently place the bottle in your purse, briefcase or backpack. Lots of styles to choose from. Savory Thymes. savorythymes.com
COWBOY BOOTS Rustic, soft and natural looking. Women's Justin square toe cowboy boots. Made in the USA. Watsonatta Western World. booneboots.com
WOMEN’S FASHION What's better than a personalized gift? Blanket scarves, boots, and more available in store! Boone Belles. 617 West King St. www.boonebelles.com
FURNITURE La-Z-Boy volume dealer Broyhill – Lane – Catnapper – Craftmaster – Serta bedding Jim’s Corner Furniture, Warrensville, NC. 336-384-2929. www.jimscornerfurniture.com
BRIGHTON JEWELRY The perfect Christmas gift for that special someone! South's Specialty Clothiers. southsclothiers.com
STOCKING STUFFERS My Little Dino World. Love Hearts. Jar of Beads. Great for creative play and developing those fine motor skills. Stocking stuffer options $2-$15. Mention or bring in this ad for 10% off. The Bluebird Exchange. facebook.com/bluebirdexchange AAWmag.com | December 2015
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Keep it warm &
cozy
Whether it was from a mom, aunt or grandmother, we’ve all heard some variation of
“Go change, you’re going to freeze to death wearing that.” But, before you go reluctantly move your thinner clothing to the back of the closet, let’s look at a few innovative ways to keep those dresses around for winter. Your essentials really depend on your lifestyle and taste. So, while I wouldn’t want to suggest that every woman needs certain pieces, I would like to share my personal favorite fall items that I wear routinely, each fall and winter. I consider them my “closet work-horses” and I’ve found them to be great pieces for looking cozy and cute, while still being able to run errands all day long.
From the bottom up: Tights: When wearing a dress in the fall or winter, adding tights is an easy way to warm up your outfit. You can keep it classic with a simple pair of opaque black tights or experiment with colors and patterns. Leggings: Other than tights, leggings are definitely the warmer option to wear. Leggings with leather elements or studs definitely add a touch of flair to your outfit and some edge to your lighter pieces. You could also try some over-the-knee socks.
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December 2015 | AAWmag.com
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REIKI MASTER Charla Rae Armitage
PAIN & STRESS MANAGEMENT Best foot forward: Booties: When the temperature drops, we do not have to be reminded that boot season has arrived. It’s past time to retire your flip-flops and sandals and replace them with those super chic booties — probably the only shoe that looks great with skinny jeans or tights. Whether you go flat or heeled, an ankle boot will never let you down.
Wear the plaids:
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My favorite go-to fall and winter outfit is a plaid shirt with skinny jeans and riding boots. These shirts can be layered under a sweater, blazer, vest, or a chunky cardigan. Their versatility allows you to wear them tucked into or knotted over a jeans or a skirt.
The striped tee: Keep it layerered: Cardigans: Maxi dresses already have enough length to endure the winter season, so add a cardigan, belt and scarf for variation. Get Pulled Over: Try layering a sweater over a loose-fitting tank dress for a simple, but cute new look. Allowing the dress to peek out from the bottom adds flair and color, while simultaneously giving you the layers to survive the temperature drop. Since the loose dress under the sweater is the key to this look, it pulls the lower half in to create a faux skirt look.
I’ve worked my short-sleeved striped tee to its death, and still refusing to put it away, I stocked up on a few long-sleeved versions for cooler weather. There are countless ways to accessorize a plain striped T-shirt, even with just necklaces and scarves. Or, you can layer them under cardigans, blazers and vests. Whatever the weather, wear the clothes that define you and make you feel your best. Just stay warm in the meantime and have a Merry Christmas. Emily apple Emily Apple is an Appalachian State graduate with a degree in fashion design and merchandising.
There’s a story behind every smile Schedule your appointment today! 828.264.2762 142 Doctors Drive | Boone, NC 28607 www.BooneNCDentist.com AAWmag.com | December 2015
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Local writer Melissa Edmondson showing the book “Chicken Soup for the Soul: Think Possible” to a customer at the Harvest Café in Jefferson on Oct. 26. Photo by James Howell
Local writer’s work featured in
‘Chicken Soup for the Soul’ “Milestone” was the fourth story written by Melissa to be published by “Chicken Soup for the Soul.” In all, she has submitted eight stories for publication, and may be featured in more books in the future.
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A
rea writer Melissa Edmondson was featured in a
recently published book called “Chicken Soup for the Soul: Think Possible,” one of the latest installments in the “Chicken Soup for the Soul” book series. Each book is a compilation of inspirational and motivational stories submitted by thousands of authors. Melissa’s submission, titled “Milestone,” is a nonfictional account of her first attempt at running a half marathon for the first time. According to Melissa, her first half marathon marked a major accomplishment in her life, and she has since run full marathons. Melissa says the message of the story is that, even though a goal may look small at the time, you never know how big of an accomplishment it may be in the future. “Milestone” was the fourth story written by Melissa to be published by “Chicken Soup for the Soul.” In all, she has submitted eight stories for publication, and may be featured in more books in the future. “You send stories to them based on upcoming topics,” Melissa says. “Sometimes, you don’t necessarily get rejected; they’ll hold stories until the right subject comes along.” Melissa says she has been interested in writing from a young age, and has been featured in other publications, as well. In 2011, she created an online journal about occurrences from her day-to-day life. She made her blog public in 2013, calling it “Missy’s Public Journal.” In January, she also self-published a book of essays call “Lessons Abound.”. Up to this point, Melissa’s writing has been nonfiction, but she has recently tried her hand at fiction for the first time. Her first novel is titled “Wings of a Feather;” she is hoping to finish it by next year. Melissa’s work, including “Lessons Abound” and the “Chicken Soup for the Soul” books, will be for sale at the Shriner’s Holiday Expo at the Shriner’s building in Ashe County at 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Dec. 5.
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AAWmag.com | December 2015
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‘The Snow Child’
eowyn ivey
“November was here, and it frightened her because she
knew what it brought — cold upon the valley like a coming death, glacial wind through the cracks between the cabin logs. But, most of all, darkness — so complete even the pale-lit hours would be choked,” muses Mabel, the main character of Eowyn Ivey’s “The Snow Child,” as she enters her second winter in the frozen frontier of Alaska in 1920. Having encouraged her husband
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to pack up their lives back east and try homesteading in this wild country, Mabel recounts the struggles of watching the light go away in the darkest of winters, of the isolation that comes when neighbors are separated from each other by towering snow drifts, of sub-zero temperatures, and of the wild territory Mabel and Jack struggle to know as home. From somewhere deep in both their hearts, Mabel and Jack grieve the loss of their unborn child — and from that sorrow grows a yearning that seems to
blend with their journey into the heart of unfamiliar Alaska. In a moment of revelry and light heartedness, the snow angel Jack and Mabel create takes on a life of its own to swirl through the narrative as a young girl who begins to visit them every winter. Taken from the snow maiden’s folktale and a book Mabel read when she was younger, the young girl in their story is welcomed wholeheartedly by Jack and Mabel.
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About the Author Eowyn LeMay Ivey was raised in Alaska and continues to live there with her husband an two daughters. She received her bachelor’s degree in journalism through the honors program at Western Washington University and worked for nearly 10 years as an award-winning reporter at the Frontiersman newspaper. She is a bookseller of Fireside Books in Palmer, Alaska. “The Snow Child” is her first novel.
They begin to anticipate the girl’s coming and going as both a way to mark the seasons and a welcome respite from the cold of the frontier. As Mabel awaits the girl’s return, she makes clothes and coats for the little girl. Jack lures her to their cabin with food, yet, all the while, they wonder if she is real, or something they have pulled out of the haunting echo of solitude embedded in Alaska’s frozen months. Faina, as the young girl comes to be called, becomes an intricate part of their lives, and Mabel shares her fear of losing the girl: “It was a possibility she could not bear. This time she would not let her love slacken, even for a moment. She would be vigilant and wish and wish. Please, child. Please, child. Please don’t leave us.” As Mabel and Jack begin to reconcile the individual guilt they feel about the death of their child, and as they continue to grow closer in their wilderness, Mabel asks herself the novel’s resounding question. But, then she would think of Faina running through the trees with the wild fox at her heels, and of Garrett with his steel traps and snares, and she would wonder if one can truly stop the inevitable. Was it, as Ada had suggested, that we can choose our own endings, joy over sorrow? Or does the cruel world just give and take, give and take, while we founder through the wilderness?”
As Mabel tackles that question, readers are also coaxed into considering our own personal wildernesses and the illusions we cling to so tightly. Is what we hold dearest real? Will it withstand the storms of our lives? Or, will we have to dig ever deeper into our own souls and share the burdens of life with those we love more resplendently, more nobly? Will we learn to rely on ourselves? As Mabel and Jack find a way to follow the cycles of seasons, light, and the wildness of Alaska, the love they feel for Faina grows ever stronger. Much like the land they work, with its continual emergence of secrets and treasures, Jack and Mabel understand that they are equally bound by the wildness of the frontier as well as the spirit of Faina. The lessons they learn about them-
selves, love, marriage and heartache are lessons for readers, as well. They continue to resound in the final lines of the novel, “He took hold of Mabel’s hand, and when she turned to him, he saw in her eyes the joy and sorrow of a lifetime. ‘It’s snowing,’ she said.” And, thus, life begins and continues all over.
Hollie Greene Hollie Greene is an English teacher who loves stories, words and the mountains of North Carolina.
LOOK as good as you FEEL! • Wrinkles Face and Eyelids • Sun Damage and Skin Care Bulges at the Jowl and under the Chin
AAWmag.com | December 2015
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Gail Polson:
Gail Polson is known for her cooking skills and her compassion for others. Photo by Sherrie Norris.
‘When God made Gail, he placed an angel on earth. This special lady is always appreciative of anything done for her. I am proud to call her my life friend.’ - Ramona Sturgill 48 48-49.indd 48
Gail Pritchard Polson of Crossnore has devoted a big part of her life to food service and is known in her community as one with a big heart and a gift for cooking and serving others. While she no longer waits tables, as she did for many years at some of the area’s local eateries, or cooks commercially as she once did at the local hospital, Gail continues to provide good food and special treats for her church, community and family gatherings. Gail is always among the first to arrive at a neighbor’s home when a birth, illness or death has occurred, bearing an offering of food, and always with a warm smile or hug and kind, caring words of comfort. There are many dishes that she enjoys preparing, but she is always requested to bring her cucumber sandwiches to church functions; a family reunion wouldn’t be the same without her coleslaw and deviled eggs, nor would her family Christmas gathering survive without her mouthwatering lime Jell-O congealed salad. Gail is also known for her fluffy angel biscuits which melt in your mouth, especially when enhanced with a spoonful of her homemade jam and jelly. Currently, as a member of the social committee at her church, where she has been a lifelong member, Gail helps plan, organize, set up and clean up for homecomings, wedding showers and other special food-related celebrations and activities. She is also treasurer of her Sunday school class, helps with Vacation Bible School each summer and volunteers when and where needed. In the summer, Gail and her husband, Danny Polson, always raise a garden, from which she preserves dozens of jars of goods each year — green beans, tomatoes, pickles — you name it, and Gail will find a place for it all on her pantry
Hummingbird Cake 3 cups all-purpose flour 2 cups sugar 1 tsp. baking soda 1 tsp. salt 1 tsp. cinnamon 3 eggs, beaten 1 cup vegetable oil 1 ½ tsp. vanilla 1 (8 oz.) can crushed pineapple 2 cups mashed bananas 1 cup chopped pecans Combine flour, sugar, baking soda,
salt and cinnamon in bowl; mix well. Add eggs, oil, stirring until moistened. Stir in vanilla and undrained pineapple, bananas and pecans. Spoon into three greased and floured cake pans. Bake at 350 degrees 2530 minutes, or until done. Cool
Icing:
8 oz. cream cheese, softened ½ cup margarine, softened 1 lb. box or pkg. of powdered sugar 1 tsp. vanilla Beat cream cheese and margarine with mixer until fluffy; add powdered sugar and
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The Gift of Service shelves or in the freezer. While her family often jokes with her about “hoarding,” everyone knows she is always willing to share with others, and she does so generously. Gail says that it is only natural that she has such a love for food and serving others. Her maternal grandparents were well known, during the 1930s and ‘40s for their Crossnore store and café, where they fed many people, regardless of their ability to pay. Her grandfather, Jeter Vance, was one of Crossnore’s first mayors and was a gifted cook who, earlier, was working in an industrial cafeteria in Ohio when he met Blanche Snodgrass, who soon became his wife. Gail’s “Granny Blanche,” too, was blessed with culinary skills and couldn’t keep her butterscotch and apple pies on the café counter very long. The pies no sooner left the oven before anxious customers quickly claimed them for their own. Gail learned a lot about the kitchen from her Granny, as well as her mother, Mary Lou Vance Pritchard, who was also a wonderful cook; Mary’s sister, Jean also spent many years in food service when she moved north, and their brother, Kenneth “Bub” Vance, today, at 88, still cooks and cans, in his Jonesborough, Tenn. home.
Gail says she was blessed with both sides of her family known for their culinary skills, although “back, then”, she adds, it was just known as “good country cooking.” Other family members, too, owned cafes and worked in various food-related jobs. Gail first became a waitress as a teenager for the Hartley’s Linville Café in the mid-60s and later joined Mary Hoilman in her Linville restaurant; she also worked at the Mountain Glen Golf Course snack bar, waitressed at the Tweetsie Diner and The Little Kitchen in Newland, The Mountain Top Restaurant in Pineola and the Holiday Inn, Banner Elk. For several summers, Gail also cooked for seasonal residents in Linville. She worked seven years in the kitchen at Sloop Memorial Hospital in Crossnore, five of those as a cook, and for eight years, mainly weekends, she worked with Lovin’ Spoonful Catering. For the last 20 years, as an in-home aide through a local healthcare agency, Gail has continued to prepare food for her clients. Gail feels blessed, also, she says, for her skills and opportunities to use them. “I love helping others and hope that, along the way, I can make a difference in someone’s day.” Like most good cooks, Gail doesn’t always measure ingredients, so it’s not
always easy for her to share recipes. Such is the case with her coleslaw. “I chop my cabbage and carrots and I add mayonnaise, a little sugar, salt and vinegar. I don’t measure, but it always turns out pretty good.” According to Ramona Sturgill who grew up in the same town, “The Crossnore community and First Baptist Church are so lucky to have this caring woman living in our little mountain town. No one deserves to be recognized more so than Gail.” Ramona describes Gail as “One of the kindest and most thoughtful persons I have ever known. She always is thinking of others, never herself.” Gail always remembers birthdays and sends cards to everyone and routinely checks on the sick or bereaved, Ramona adds. “When God made Gail, he placed an angel on earth. This special lady is always appreciative of anything done for her. I am proud to call her my life friend.” Gail has spent her lifetime not only loving her family, friends and neighbors, but also her Boston Terriers, which she considers her “babies.” Following are a few of Gail’s favorite recipes that are measurable, tried and true.
vanilla, beating to a spreading consistency. Spread between cooled cake layers; cover top and sides completely.
minutes, or until lightly brown. Baste top of hot biscuits with butter.
Lime Jell-O Salad
Buttermilk Biscuits
2 cups self-rising flour, sifted 1/3 cup shortening ¾ cup buttermilk Cut shortening with flour; add milk all at once. Stir with fork. (Dough should follow fork around bowl.) Roll out on floured board. Cut out with biscuit cutter or glass. Place on baking pan and bake at 400 degrees for 15
Cucumber Sandwich Filling
1 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese ¼ cup grated carrots ¼ cup grated onions ¼ cup grated green peppers ¼ tsp. garlic salt ½ cup chopped cucumbers (not grated) Mix together all ingredients. Refrigerate. Serve on bread or crackers of choice.
sherrie norris Editor, All About Women
1 large box lime Jell-O 1 (15 oz.) can crushed pineapple, drained 1 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese ½ cup pecans 1 small tub Cool Whip In a small bowl, dissolve Jell-O with 1 cup cold water and ½ cup hot water. In a larger bowl, add drained pineapple, cream cheese and nuts; add Jell-O mixture and cool whip. Mix well. Pour into a glass baking dish. Refrigerate until firm. Cut into squares to serve. AAWmag.com | December 2015
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Photo by Sherrie Norris
Wishing you a Merry High Country Christmas and a Happy New Year! 50 50-51.indd 50
December 2015 | AAWmag.com
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