All About Women January-February 2014

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A Wedding to Remember

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editor Sherrie Norris sherrie@aawmag.com 828.264.3612, ext. 251

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writers Emily Apple Steve Behr Heather Brandon Sharon Carlton Bonnie Church Josh Jarman Heather Jordan Linda Killian Mary McKinney Ariel Parsons Heather Samudio David Willard

production & design Meleah Bryan Jennifer Canosa Kristin Powers

advertising Leigh Ann Moody 828.264.6397, ext. 271

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contents women in the news great friend to families celia marsh it’s all about the dress check it off young at heart kristina critcher beautiful bride high country courtesies melissa caudill’s love story keeping the romance alive julie loven’s engagement meredith church ann cook holly liesegang contemporary versus tradition a basketball game proposal wedding planner corrie freeman living well women and heart disease tobacco use and prevention sacred vows for life home décor by the book mom’s world sweets for the sweet

meredith church

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celia marsh

kristina critcher

holly liesegang

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 | AAWMAG.COM

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editor’s note

As I write these words, snow is falling and temperatures are dropping at a rapid speed. This day could go down in history as the coldest in many years.

It’s nothing but warmth we feel, however, as we compile this special wedding issue of All About Women.

We love being able to highlight the stories (and adventures) of a few beautiful brides each year and to offer future brides helpful tips for their big day.

We hope that you will enjoy reading about the self-proclaimed tomboy who became a blushing bride last summer; the hairdresser from New York who discovered her true love in the same town that her ancestors once called home, and about the young mother who found true love at last — and with a sense of humor, recalls all the things that could go wrong (and did) at her wedding.

Our cover is graced this month by one whose love for Latin America led her to the love of her life practically in her own front door, and who had not one, but two, weddings in one day.

We are bringing you advice from a wedding director and a marriage counselor who can help you through the journey, as well as a couple, married 71 years, who knows what it takes for success.

And what about those proposals? From the basketball court to a nationally syndicated TV show, we have it all. And if it’s just romance in general that interests you, you don’t want to miss an area author’s success with her submission in “The Dating Game,” the latest edition of “Chicken Soup for the Soul.”

In the midst of winter and a national focus on matters of the heart in general, we have helpful information for your health, which includes knowing the signs of a heart disease and the latest information related to tobacco use.

We are delighted to welcome you, our readers and our advertising sponsors, as you join us in this amazing new year.

We love hearing from you, too, so let us know what you’re thinking.

From the heart,

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womeninthenews Librarian recognized for service Jackie Cornette was awarded the inaugural Hugh Hagaman Volunteer Service Award on Nov. 19.

Jackie is a full-time employee of the Western Watauga branch of the Watauga County Public Library and has served as volunteer coordinator for the annual book sale at Boone Mall and the High Country Festival of the Book.

The award is named in honor of Hagaman, a longtime library and endowment board member, who died in July. His wife, Peg Hagaman, was present for the presentation.

The award was part of the Watauga County Public Library’s Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast, which drew more than 50 people. Volunteers in numerous capacities were recognized for their dedication and support.

Jackie Cornette, right, with Peg Hagaman.

Photo submitted

Bond is Boone’s volunteer of the year

Bettie Bond is named Volunteer of the Year by outgoing Boone Mayor, Loretta Clawson.

Photo submitted

In one of her last official acts as Boone mayor, Loretta Clawson proclaimed Bettie Bond as the 2013 Volunteer of the Year in celebration of her work and dedication to the town of Boone.

Loretta presented Bettie with the proclamation outlining her service to the town, along with a locally made wreath, on Dec. 13.

Bettie currently serves on the town’s Historic Preservation Commission, the Fourth of July parade committee and the Christmas parade planning committee.

She spent many hours working with the Historic Preservation Commission to ensure the federal government did not abandon the downtown Boone post office, which so many people use, and stayed active during the renovation process, as well, according to Clawson.

Bettie also worked with others to encourage the town to provide the upfront cost to purchase the Appalachian Theatre and she continues to work with the nonprofit board that has acquired the theater and is paying back the cost to the town in record time, Loretta said. “Bettie also works to support Horn in the West and many other organizations in the area, and her enthusiasm for the town of Boone and its projects cannot be matched. Bettie is a wonderful person who contributes so much of her time to the town of Boone. She is very deserving of this award, and it is my honor to have been able to make this presentation,” Loretta said.

West Jefferson Woman’s Club honors Mary Ruth Payne The West Jefferson Woman’s Club honored Mary Ruth Payne for her many years of dedicated and devoted service at “An Evening for Education” recently at Boondock’s.

Mary Ruth served as a volunteer leader for more than 50 years in the West Jefferson Woman’s Club. She has spent countless hours of service in support of education.

Serving as an ambassador for the West Jefferson Woman’s Club and its support of literacy in the area, has been a passion for Mary Ruth.

She has helped improve the community through her work in support of conservation of natural resources.

She has touched the hearts and lives of numerous students, educators and their families, and worked tirelessly with other educators across the state with energetic enthusiasm and dedicated devotion, according to a statement released from the club.

The West Jefferson Woman’s Club officially named a scholarship in her honor; The Mary Ruth Payne Scholarship will go to an Ashe County graduating senior in pursuit of a college education.

Mary Ruth Payne was recently honored for half a century’s service to women in Ashe County.

Photo submitted

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Know A Great Friend to Families?

Nominations open for annual awards Do you know someone who loves kids, cares about parents and caregivers, and has worked for years to make the High Country a better place for families? It’s time to nominate that person for one of two Great Friend to Families awards, presented annually by The Children’s Playhouse of Boone.

The Great Friend to Families awards recognize sustained contributions by individuals for the well being of young children and their families in the High Country area. The Helping Hands award celebrates those who help families through their careers; Helping Hearts honors those who lend a hand through generous philanthropy and/or outstanding volunteerism.

Playhouse Executive Director Kathy Parham says this is a great way to say “thank you” to someone who has made a difference for

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families: “It might be a teacher, doctor, nurse, coach, social worker, philanthropist or volunteer,” she says. “When you think of helping families, who pops into your mind? Don’t you think that person deserves some recognition?”

Nomination forms — short, simple and easy to complete — are available online at www.goPlayhouse.org. They may also be requested by calling The Children’s Playhouse at (828) 2630011.

The deadline for nominations is March 4.

The winners will be chosen by a distinguished committee of local leaders and honored at a luncheon on Saturday, March 22; one overall winner will be presented with a framed photograph by the late Dwight Miller and $500 to donate to the High Country nonprofit of their choice.

Keynote speaker for the awards luncheon will be Charlotte radio personality and author Sheri Lynch.

54516 libby’s This year marks the sixth annual awards presentation. Past over-all winners include Judith Winecoff, Pat Morgan, Trish Lanier, Jim Atkinson, Dick Hearn and Joan Hearn. A complete list of all past honorees is on the museum’s website.

The Playhouse stipulates that while a Helping Hands or Helping Hearts honoree may be recognized multiple times, he or she may only win the overall Great Friend to Families Award once.

The luncheon will raise awareness and funds to support family resource services at The Children’s Playhouse, enabling the children’s museum to provide scholarship memberships to low-income families, offer more programs for children, and improve their exhibits.

Sponsorships for the event are still being accepted. Individuals and local businesses are invited to be a part of this unique way to honor those individuals who go the extra mile for High Country Families.

For more information, contact Kathy Parham at kathy@goPlayhouse.org. Tickets to the luncheon will go on sale in March.

About The Children’s Playhouse A nonprofit children’s museum founded in 2002, The Children’s Playhouse provides an enriching play environment for children from birth to age 8 while at the same time offering parents and caregivers friendly support in the important job of raising children. It is located at 400 Tracy Circle near downtown Boone. Daily admission is $5 per person plus tax. A one year Playhouse Passport Membership for $125 includes admission to The Playhouse and half-price admission to more than 150 children’s museums nationwide. Scholarship memberships are available for families that meet income guidelines.

The Children’s Playhouse is supported in part by grants from the Barnickel Foundation, Watauga County, the High Country Women’s Fund, the Watauga Legacy Fund, the High Country United Way, Boone Service League and donations from individuals.

For more information, call (828) 2630011, find Children’s Playhouse on Facebook, or visit the website, www.goplayhouse.org.

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SAVINGS! www.libbyslook.com 205B Long Street • Shamrock Square • Jefferson, NC 28640 • (336) 846-9551 Mon-Fri 9:30-6:00 • Saturday 9:30-5:30 • Closed on Sunday

Celia Marsh It’s all she needs Photos by Lisa Coombs

Celia Norman Marsh will never forget Sept. 21, 2012. It was her 24th birthday and also the day Taylor Marsh proposed.

After a long day at her job as a hair stylist, Celia pulled into her driveway to see Taylor walking to meet her. “I was expecting flowers and maybe a nice dinner,” she says.

After covering her eyes with his hands and leading her into the house, Taylor guided Celia to the living room, where she eventually saw framed pictures, candles, cupcakes and a ring on the coffee table.

The first photo was of her horse, Charu with a sign that said “Will you;” the second picture showed her dogs with signs hanging from their collars that read, “say yes!”

“At that moment, I realized what was happening and was overcome with emotion,” Celia says. “Taylor had already asked for my father’s permission; I wouldn’t have expected any less from a Southern gentleman.”

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The Planning Begins Wedding plans occupied the months to follow. “Previously, I might have considered being a wedding planner, but now, you could not pay me enough to plan another wedding,” Celia says.

Her journey was made complete with help from family and friends.

Her wedding day was different than what

she had dreamed, she says, “But much better than anything I could’ve imagined. It was exactly what it was meant to be.”

The wedding program handed to guests as they arrived at Leatherwood Mountain Resort on that August day indicated that the ceremony would begin promptly at 5 p.m. — “barring a hair disaster, dress emergency or very cold feet.” No one expected torrential rain that forced the outdoor ceremony inside the pavilion reserved for the reception.

“I rode in on my horse, Charu, which could easily have dumped me, white dress and all, into a mud puddle,” she says. “It poured the hardest rain that I have ever seen.”

The wedding party — 20 close friends and family members — made its way into the wedding site beneath umbrellas. Celia’s attendants, especially, were glad to be wearing their cowboy boots instead of sandals.

Throughout the day, Celia was reminded that rain is a sign of good luck.

‘

Little moments like that don’t come often, but in that instant, I knew that I was right where I was supposed to be, standing beside the love of my life, my best friend, surrounded by people who love us.

’

Celia Norman is helped off of her horse by her father in pouring rain. Photo by Sherrie Norris

At one point in the ceremony, everything just stopped, she remembers, as everyone turned to look outside at the pounding rain.

“It was in that moment that I was able to capture it all — our guests, their smiles, the gifts, the beautiful cake . . . the horses in the distance,” she says. “Little moments like that don’t come often, but in that instant, I knew that I was right where I was supposed to be, standing beside the love of my life, my best friend, surrounded by people who love us.”

Making Life Worthwhile

s

While some may call it fate or destiny, Celia believes there are no coincidences in life. “Had I not endured and struggled some in my past, I would never have been able to appreciate someone like Taylor,” she says.

“We have been so happy together as we have gotten to know each other. We enjoy laughing, cracking jokes, traveling and working on projects together with no conflicting ideas about our future — just perfect timing, happiness and a mutual respect for one another, of each other’s feelings, families and love. It’s something extraordinary in today’s world. Life is not perfect, and I don’t think it ever will be, but I have found someone who makes life worthwhile.”

Telling Their Stories As a multi-talented artist, Celia chose to make book-carving sculptures to be used as centerpieces for her reception and as her cake topper.

Using pages from old books, Celia made 28 of the unique sculptures that helped tell the story of her life, as well as that of her groom, devoting about 130 hours to the project and causing Taylor to wonder “what in the world” she was doing.

“It was a way of reaching out to our guests and allowing them to share parts of our life story,” she says. “It also helped us both gain an appreciation of how our lives were completely intertwined on that day.”

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Using even more book pages, Celia chose to replace traditional flower arrangements at her wedding with nearly 5,000 tiny roses that she, along with family and close friends, made during the summer.

Finding Her Way to Boone Nearing her sixth year in Boone, Celia remembers a call from her grandmother three weeks before leaving her home and family in New York to attend Appalachian State University. “She said she had something to show me,” Celia says.

From a large book, Celia learned that several of her ancestors, including a Cherokee Indian woman, had settled in northwestern North Carolina and specifically, the Boone area. “It’s strange to think that I signed up for school without knowing that, in a way, I would be coming home,” she says.

lor purchased a farm near Boone. “It feels as though we are in the middle of nowhere, which I love,” she says. “Remodeling the small farmhouse to make it functional was a priority, but we did not want to sacrifice the beauty of its age. I love old things; they tell a story that should be salvaged and cherished.”

Her grandparents, whose house was the first one built in their hometown of Potsdam, N.Y., and is on the National Historic Register, came to Boone to help remodel the kitchen and bathroom in particular. “My grandfather has a passion and talent for renovating, and they both have had a lot of experience bringing back life to an older structure,” Celia

How It All Began Celia and her three siblings were raised on a northern New York farm in the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains. Her two artistic and hardworking parents taught their children responsibility at a young age.

Animals, and specifically horses, were a big part of her childhood and remain close to her heart. “I find them to be amazingly honest creatures and energy readers,” she says.

“They have taught me a lot of life lessons.”

She had a fun childhood that allowed her to enjoy the outdoors and the beauty of a farm life, she says, remembering rising early on cold winter mornings to feed the horses, hauling hay to them on sleds. “I didn’t like it, then, but I appreciate it now.”

As a youngster, Celia was also active in martial arts, gymnastics, soccer, playing the flute, and of course, horseback riding. Many of those interests followed her through college.

“When I was little, I imagined driving a lime green Beetle when I got my license, and after graduation going to Cornell University to become a large animal vet,” she says.

At her parents’ encouragement, Celia studied cosmetology during her last two years of high school through a time-shared program with the local technical school. Six years later, she is a hairdresser at Changes Salon in Boone.

She also attended Alfred University before discovering ASU, where she obtained a bachelor’s degree in interior design in 2012.

In the meantime, she also discovered her next-door neighbor, Taylor Marsh.

The House Soon after their wedding, Celia and Tay-

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Photo by Lisa Coombs

says.

Future plans include expanding the house, at some point, to accommodate a family. “But right now, it’s all we need for the two of us,” Celia says with a broad smile, “and our three horses, three dogs, two cats and a miniature pig.”

sherrie norris Editor, All About Women

It’s All About The

Dress Whether you’re going for a streamlined silhouette, a touch of drama or a great “Gatsby” gown, this year’s bridal fashion highlights call for more sleek and modern wedding dresses.

For the fashionista bride-to-be, a few of this season’s key trends include halter and illusion necklines, lace sleeves, vintage 1920s glamour and the popular high/low skirts.

The remake of “The Great Gatsby,” which launched last year, has made the 1920s style a big event.

Keep the following tips in mind to help find the dress that flatters your figure and brings out your best assets:

◊ Show off those curves. The simple and traditional mermaid-style gown has it all covered. Don’t be afraid to let a dress hug your hips or your waist. Try different styles, even those you haven’t liked before. Be adventurous, and don’t be surprised at where your interests might take you. ◊ Strong arms don’t have to be hidden.

There’s nothing wrong with having and showing a little muscle. The popular strapless dress with a sweetheart neckline will be your best friend and gives clear view of the tone and structure of your arms, allowing respectful display. ◊ Show a little skin. It’s OK on your wedding day, but don’t overdo it. A dress with a suggestive back and embroidered edges is a great way to appear elegant without overstepping the boundaries. ◊ Choosing the perfect dress for your attendants can be a daunting task. You can go sassy and fun or more elegant and traditional. This year’s trends are anything but “bridesmaid-y” and offer options that anyone can and will want to wear. It doesn’t mean that the girls have to outshine the bride; the trick is to “play up” their best features and work with the style and colors that suit them best. (It may take a little trial and error). Modern dresses are becoming a bit more casual, but yet trendy at the same time, so they can be worn again and again. Let’s face it — no one wants to play the part of Katherine Heigl in “27 Dresses.”

◊ Bridesmaid dress trends change all the time. A unique color that will suit any wedding this year is the rich and vibrant emerald green. It works for any time of the year or any time of day and is great for all skin tones. Bright dresses for the attendants have shown up in classic weddings for simple perfection. Several designers have begun adding a touch of lace for that feminine touch on the garments. Shorter styles and full skirts can go formal or casual for day or night events.

When you know you look good, you can walk into any room and own it; Oscar de la Renta’s Peplum and long sleeve couture garments and Vera Wang’s flawless and elegant gowns are just a couple of the breathless couture gowns you might happen to come across on your dress hunt. Just remember the words of Colin Cowlie — “As a bride, you should look like yourself at your absolute, natural best.”

Emily apple Emily Apple is an Appalachian State graduate with a degree in fashion design and merchandising.

Check it off Many brides have decided that hiring a wedding planner was one of the best gifts she could have given herself. Having the services of a professional who sees the big picture and doesn’t worry about hurting anyone’s feelings can help alleviate a lot of stress on what is supposed to be the most wonderful day of a woman’s life.

Following is a list of suggestions similar to those provided by wedding planners for their clients:

After sharing the good news with your family and closest friends, announce your engagement in your hometown newspaper, on a wedding website, through your choice of social media, and yes, even through mailing formal announcements to other relatives and friends.

Communicate with your future in-laws about your rehearsal dinner and provide your guest list.

Form checklist to help stay organized.

If not included in the contract with your caterer, reserve any rental equipment you’ll need, including dishes, tables, chairs, linens, tents, etc.

Formulate a plan: do you want a casual or formal wedding?

Daytime or evening? Religious or secular?

Examine your beauty regimen and decide if you want to make changes in your routine or try anything new.

Register for gifts.

Choose your wedding colors.

Arrange wedding transportation.

Set your budget and decide who pays: you or your parents?

Order save-the-date cards, invitations, etc.

Begin making your guest list.

Select date and time.

Work with the groom to choose his tuxedo or his choice of attire, in addition to what his groomsmen will wear; decide on purchasing, renting and who assumes responsibility for same.

Select and reserve your ceremony and reception sites.

Purchase your wedding rings.

Hire a wedding planner and/or director, if you’re using one.

Make an appointment with your pastor or other officiant who you want to preside over your ceremony.

Book accommodations for you on your wedding night as well as those for out-of-town guests.

Buy gifts for your wedding party, parents and each other.

Choose your wedding party: bridesmaids, groomsmen and ushers, a flower girl and ring bearer.

Meet with florists, caterers, cake decorators, photographers and musicians to discuss your needs and budget; firming up those services as early as possible will eliminate major headaches later on.

8 to 10 months before your wedding:

If you’re changing into going-away outfits before you leave the reception, purchase those now.

2 to 3 months before your wedding: Make a list of music you want played and photos you want taken.

Confirm menus with your caterer.

Shop for your wedding dress and accessories, including veil, gloves and shoes; once that’s done, shop with your attendants for their dresses.

Pre-marital counseling with your officiant to include discussing the actual wedding ceremony.

Sign a contract with your wedding caterer.

Bridal showers.

Plan your honeymoon.

Mail invitations.

Shop for and order your bridesmaid dresses.

Decide about your wedding hair and makeup. If you’re doing your own, try different hairstyles, purchase any extra makeup and consider having a “makeover party” with your girlfriends.

Begin shopping for or making your own wedding favors.

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Book hairstylist and/or makeup artist, if you’re using them; meet with each of them to experiment with styles and colors.

Schedule wedding rehearsal and rehearsal dinner.

Check on requirements for marriage license and make necessary appointments.

If changing your name, complete required documents.

The month of your wedding: Apply for marriage license.

We gather here today. And embroider and hem and paint. Because every little detail of your wedding matters, BERNINA has just the right tools to “accessorize” your wedding day. Isn’t it time you said “I do” to BERNINA?

Have final gown fitting. It will be helpful to have a bridesmaid with you to learn how to bustle your train and fasten any tricky buttons (and help you go to the bathroom, if you’ve got a big wedding dress!)

Check with your bridesmaids and groomsmen to make sure they’ve gotten their attire ordered (and pickup arranged), confirm arrival times (pre-wedding events, rehearsal and the actual ceremony) and answer any last-minute questions.

Contact your vendors (caterer, officiant, cake baker, photographer, videographer, florist, musicians, transportation and hotels) to confirm arrival and delivery times.

made too create

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Building a Life Together?

We have everything you need.

Write and print your wedding program.

Create welcome baskets or bags for out-of-town guests.

Send change-of-address information to post office.

Write thank-you cards as you receive wedding gifts.

Ask your mother or maid of honor to contact any guests who have not RSVP’d.

Take a deep breath, make sure you get adequate rest and nutrition, and most of all, enjoy your day.

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youngatheart

A Wedding Story Weddings can be great — romantic and fun. The wedding industry, however, with its unrealistic expectation of the perfect day, ever rising costs and insistence that you must have disposable, monogrammed hand towels for the bathrooms (trust me, no one will remember that you had disposable, monogrammed hand towels for the bathrooms) is likely to leave a couple feeling drained physically, mentally and financially.

Gone are the days of simple weddings with punch and cake receptions. Numerous magazines, websites and blogs, not to mention Pinterest pages, are now devoted to weddings.

Brides can easily drive themselves crazy poring over often contradictory articles full of wedding etiquette and advice.

I was not one of these brides. When Roger and I were planning our wedding four years ago, we learned early on to control what we could and to compromise on what we could not. And we had no problem ignoring tradition if it did not mesh with our vision. We were also working with a six-month timeline, so rather than analyzing every little detail, we had to make quick decisions. Ultimately, we planned a wedding that reflected our personalities — from the venue and atmosphere to the music and food — and at which we, at least, had a great time.

The Venue

The Atmosphere

First and foremost, we had to find a venue. We agreed that a winery would be ideal; we found the perfect match in Sanders Ridge Vineyard, Winery and Restaurant, located in the Yadkin Valley wine region. It had everything we needed: picturesque gazebo for the ceremony, large dining room and deck for the reception, and a full service restaurant to cater the food, wine. One and done! Selecting Sanders Ridge also influenced our guest list; we used their fire code maximum capacity to determine the number of people we could invite.

We kept it casual for several reasons.

We chose a July date and knew it would be hot; my dress was simple, which influenced the wedding party attire, and we wanted everyone to be comfortable. The bridal party wore sundresses and sandals, the groom and groomsmen wore khakis — and the financial burden for all was minimal. We encouraged guests to be similarly attired, which lent a relaxed atmosphere to the event.

The Dress The path down to the gazebo was gravel, therefore, I immediately eliminated dresses with trains. I also eliminated any that did not allow me to sit, dance and visit the ladies room unaccompanied. Oh, and did I mention that I found the perfect shoes, first? So, I needed my shoes to be on display. Quite the demanding list, I know, but I had success with a short, simple dress that met all the criteria.

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The Music I walked down the aisle to an instrumental version of a Phish song, to honor Roger (he’s a big fan). The recessional was a portion of “The Throne Room/End Title” theme from Star Wars (I’m a big fan). Just as the ceremony music was unique and meaningful to Roger and me, so was the reception music. Together we selected songs for dinner and dance music and created playlists on an iPod. We made CDs of our featured songs (first dance, etc.) that guests received as a wedding favor.

The Ceremony

The Reception

I’ve already mentioned that we used music from Star Wars. What came as a surprise was that it was a running theme through our wedding ceremony. We gave complete control to the officiating minister, Dave Young, a family friend, only asking him to say a few words, marry us and get everyone to the party. Dave scrapped his original plan after a chance conversation about my favorite movie, choosing instead to prepare a ceremony comparing marriage to “The Force” — the energy field that binds the galaxy together.

Dave kept us laughing, and we got great pictures as a result.

Several guests remarked that Roger and I knew how to throw a party. And, to be honest, this is where we decided to spend the bulk of our budget. I stand by my assertion that no one remembers details like fancy hand towels. What guests do remember is whether they had fun, and, according to my buddy Alex, whether your food selections included meat-on-a-stick.

All joking aside, we designed our reception to be a celebration. The room was set cocktail style with smaller tables and couches to encourage mingling and dancing. We used the winery’s tasting bar for beverage service, and stations with tapas-style small bites were scattered about.

We opted out of having a wedding cake, instead choosing a dessert station with seasonal fresh fruit, gourmet chocolates, mini bread puddings and crème brûlée. One of my fondest memories is watching guests race each other to secure a crème brûlée as fresh batches came out of the kitchen.

By the end of the evening, we were exhausted, yet exhilarated, and happy to have been surrounded by our nearest and dearest on our wedding day, a day that — because we let our personalities be our guide — was uniquely us. Would we have changed anything in retrospect?

We would have put my Army sergeant brother-in-law in charge of seating guests instead of — well, never mind. The important thing is that as you attend other weddings together over the years, your spouse will gaze into your eyes and say, “Our wedding was way more fun!” And, you will respond, “Oh, yeah!” 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.

Fashion, Beauty & the Memories of a Lifetime!

Boone Mall | 1180 Blowing Rock Road | Boone, NC 28607 | (828) 264-8977

Your One Stop Shop for all your Formalwear Needs. » Be sure to visit our booth on March 2 at the High Country Wedding Expo

The Wedding Experts!

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One would never have guessed on her wedding day that Kristina Critcher had spent the majority of her young life as a tomboy, preferring to help the men in her family with outdoor projects rather than help her mother and sisters in the kitchen.

On Aug. 10, 2013, all of that changed, as Daddy’s girl became the bride of Adam Smith in a lovely ceremony at Mount Vernon Baptist Church in Boone, where her family has a long and strong legacy.

“Kristina never wanted to play girls’ softball, and she always took sports very seriously,” says her mother, Denise Critcher. “She played on the boys' baseball teams through Watauga County Parks and Recreation for about three years and has been a Braves fan for as long as I can remember.”

In high school, she played on a travel softball team called “Appalachian Angels,” had great coaches and a great experience, in general, she says. Though tough on the outside, Kristina has been known to have a tender, compassionate heart for others since childhood.

During eighth grade, Kristina was part of her church youth group that went to Kentucky to help construct and repair low-income houses through Kentucky Heartland Outreach. It became a family trip of sorts, accompanied by her older sister, Addie, her parents, Roger and Denise, as chaperones, and younger siblings Amanda and Andrew.

That mission trip was just the beginning for Kristina, who voluntarily gave up her summer vacations for the project through high school

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From Tomboy to Blushing Bride and spring breaks while in college.

She developed a love for KHO and the people it served.

She also grew to love the campus of Campbellsville Baptist University, becoming familiar with it and spending time there during her KHO days. She decided to become an intern for KHO and attend school at CBU, nearly seven hours away from home.

Katrina adapted well, she says, having been away from home and family on several occasions; she was part of a youth mission trip to Peru, as well as to several places in the U.S., including Mississippi and New Orleans.

Kristina admits to having felt something stirring within her regarding her future plans, as she considered giving her life to full-time mission work. In 2012, she joined with Southern Baptists through their “Hands On Missions” ministry, a unique program for college students to serve overseas while still attending classes.

She was placed in a cold area in Central Asia.

She took some online classes, taught English, helped coach a girls’ basketball team and visited orphanages. She and her family were “so thankful for Skype,” her mother says.

During her nearly six months abroad, Kristina was able to visit with former Appalachian State University college students and their children serving in Central Asia. (She and her siblings were afforded the opportunity to know many ASU students during their childhood and adolescent years through their parents’ role as leaders in their church’s college ministry.) The trip proved to Kristina that she was better suited to short-term mission projects, and she returned to work at KHO. continued on page 20 f

Photo by Emily Angle, Angle Photography

Kristina Critcher

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Photos by Emily Angle, Angle Photography

The color scheme for the wedding “was plex and had candles and rose petals laid out At about that same time, a romance bea given,” Denise says. “Kristina’s favorite colin a pathway that led me to him,” she says. tween Kristina and Adam began to blossom. ors have always been black and hot pink.”

“When I found him, he was just sitting there The couple had known each other for about Wanting Cheerwine at the reception was with a bouquet of roses in his hands with this two years through their work at KHO and one of the bride’s few special requests. “It’s a cheesy nervous grin on his face. He said a from being in classes together at Campbellsfavorite that she always took with her to Kenbunch of stuff I can’t remember, but I’m sure ville. With family roots in Kentucky, but calltucky because at that time, it was ing Cincinnati, Ohio, home (where not sold there,” Denise says. “That his dad, Dave Smith, pastors a was actually what she asked for at church), the two turned out to be Christmas, too. You might say that the perfect match their parents we’ve given the Cheerwine bothad been praying for since both tling company some good busiwere born. ness this year.”

With both of their mothers Some of the family’s favorite named Denise, Kritstina and wedding memories—and captured Adam had similar childhoods, she in the wedding photos—were of says, with family photo albums the happy newlyweds guzzling mirroring their lives. “It’s amazing, their Cheerwine. says Kristina’s mother. “We have Plans for an outdoor reception pictures of both of them catching were nixed due to heavy rains on their first fish, their sports pictures, her wedding day, so “Plan B” was visits to their favorite team’s ballput into place, and the reception parks (in Cincinnati and Atlanta), Beautiful bride, Kristina Critcher Smith, with sister, Amanda, mother Denise, and was held in the former Nissan and the list goes on. Our families sister Addie. dealership, which, Kristina says, and backgrounds are very similar.” turned out to be perfect. it was all sweet. Then he got down on his Much of Kristina’s college career was “We set up corn hole boards, calf dummy knee and asked me to marry him; of course, spent in leadership positions, including roping stations and other games in the shop I said yes.” president of Baptist Campus Ministries, and in the back, and people were able to enjoy Three months later on a Saturday in May, helping to lead various praise and worship the games despite the rain,” Kristina says.

Kristina and Adam both graduated from colteams at school and in area churches.

Adam and Kristina enjoyed their honlege; two days later, she left for East Asia with In August 2012, Adam came to Boone eymoon cruise to the Bahamas and are now her friend, Lizzie Zimmerman, to visit their to visit a mutual friend, he told her, but he living in Campbellsville, Ky. Adam is workformer church youth leaders. Returning to actually came to talk to her father and ask ing in construction, and Kristina is currently the U.S., she was at home in Boone for about permission to date her. After spending some seeking employment in the field of psychola week before going back to work for KHO; time with Adam, Kristina’s father gave his ogy or Christian missions. she returned home in early August “just in permission, and Adam’s pursuit of Kristina time to help with the last-minute plans,” she began in earnest. Four months later, Adam says. returned to Boone to ask for her hand in sherrie norris Knowing that her daughter was easy to marriage. “Dad was a little slower this time,” please, Denise never worried about having a Kristina said, “but he finally gave his permisEditor, All About Women “bridezilla” on her hands. “Kristina was such sion in February for us to marry.” a cool, calm bride that I just enjoyed being Kristina remembers well the day when mother of the bride,” she says.

Adam proposed. “He surprised me at my du-

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BEAUTY

Beautiful Bride Every bride deserves to look and feel her best on her wedding day.

While some brides will have the luxury of employing a make-up artist to help provide a look of perfection, many might prefer to continue with her routine regime to avoid surprises. We’ve consulted with beauty experts and recent brides and have come up with a few important tips to bring out the best of every bride.

If you want to lose weight for your wedding, start to form a diet and exercise plan six months in advance; a healthy weight-loss strategy doesn’t happen overnight.

If using new beauty products or if you desire a new hairdo for the big day, begin experimenting several weeks in advance.

You don’t want to wait until the last minute to discover that you have an allergy to a new product or that you have chosen make-up or a new hair color that does not complement your skin tone. The same goes for your haircut — don’t wait until the week before to have three inches taken off your shoulderlength style.

Avoid facials, waxing or introducing any new products to your body less than a week before your wedding. Your body needs time to adjust to any changes, and you need time to correct any mistakes or heal from any negative reactions. g

Since most wedding days are emotionally charged, especially for the bride, it’s a good idea to use waterproof eye shadows, liners and mascara.

Don’t forget your blush. A splash of color on your cheeks is like an instant facelift. For fair skin, a pink tone will work; those with deeper skin tones can choose a rosier hue.

Apply make-up by natural light if possible. A window is best, but if it’s not feasible, use a very bright lamp.

Have your maid of honor keep a close eye on you and let you know subtly if you need a touch-up between the ceremony and reception.

Keep an emergency stash of personal supplies in the changing room of your venue to include hairspray, a comb or a brush, lipstick and facial powder for those perspiration beads that often appear on a nervous bride’s forehead. Throw in a bottle of clear nail polish to repair nicks in your pantyhose — and a sewing kit, along with anything else you think you or someone in your bridal party might need.

Relax and try not to take on too much of the wedding and reception duties. That’s what family and friends are for.

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Forging New Traditions Sweet potatoes or mashed potatoes and gravy? Spending the holiday with your family or mine — or both?

Which religious traditions shall we celebrate?

By definition, traditions are long-established actions or customs repeated on a regular basis. Traditions enhance the meaning of special occasions. The most beloved family traditions are perpetuated from generation to generation. In observing traditions we connect with others, make special memories and build history.

Throughout the varied chapters of life we each experience, we have opportunities to assess customs and behaviors in which we have participated and to choose whether to continue, adapt or create traditions fitting our current life situations. While individuals consider their own preferences, persons navigating new marriage unions face additional considerations, especially regarding holiday traditions.

Due to the very unique nature of the personalities, experiences and expectations of any two individuals, the blending of holiday traditions when “two become one” presents multi-layered challenges. Unless approached with considerate, diplomatic communication, the first post-wedding holidays together can be complicated. However, embracing the occasion to build a foundation of meaningful customs that each person appreciates can further strengthen a marriage relationship.

Considering the customs most important to each member of a couple is an excellent starting point. Which traditions from each person’s history do the parties want to continue, adapt or discard? Are there new customs to adopt? Listening to each other’s expectations and learning to compromise are important communication tools in fashioning traditions, as well as in lovingly dealing with extended family requests for time.

Creating additional new traditions begins naturally as new couples express their distinctive values through joint activities and shared rituals.

Blended families encounter increased opportunities during holidays for differenc-

es of opinion and expectations to surface.

Focusing on the family’s vision for bonding can be an important catalyst for forging new traditions. Which activities, foods and observances lend themselves to creating a sense of unity and appreciation for each family member? Successfully merging former traditions and creating new customs that are accepted and respected by all require forethought, astute observation and graceful leadership.

Anything can become a tradition. Foods, activities, behaviors and religious observances can all provide symbolic reflections of what a person or family values and enjoys.

Understanding where you want to be in the future and how persons wish to be known as individuals, or as a family, can influence the evolution of new traditions.

A tradition of time spent together in enjoyable pastimes can create closeness and unity. Bonding occurs when people choose to purposely engage in pleasant behaviors together, whether activities are daily chores or holiday-related actions or entertainmentoriented occasions.

By establishing a tradition of time spent together in certain activities like attending homecoming at an alma mater, holiday shopping or watching a favorite seasonal program, newly married couples initiate a custom they can continue claiming when children arrive and demands upon their time increase. Likewise, fun traditional family observances can draw teens to spend time with family even when influential peers are pulling them aside.

Watching sports events or classic movies together, group cooking experiences and playing games are simple ways to spend time together. Decorating for holidays, and later un-decorating, hold great potential for tradition-building. Sharing a hobby like baking or making a craft with others in a pleasant setting all can enjoy, then sharing the end products with an extended group, is a way to express personal identity and to con-

nect in a meaningful manner.

Eating specific meals or foods at certain times — like sipping hot chocolate after selecting a Christmas tree on chilly days, or roasting marshmallows over a campsite bonfire, or serving a favorite “family classic” recipe for Grandma’s spaghetti at annual birthday celebrations, can build history.

Combining menu items held dear by individuals (i.e: serving mashed potatoes with gravy and sweet potatoes for Thanksgiving) conveys acceptance and initiates a merged tradition.

When religious or ethnic differences are present, options include choosing to combine elements in one celebration or, when appropriate, to celebrate two specifically different observances. Respect and kindness are the best guidelines in approaching delicate personal issues, such as faith.

Practicing gratitude, serving others and sharing with the less fortunate are traditions that enrich lives in a ripple effect, spreading goodwill and benefitting all involved. From counting blessings around the Thanksgiving table to delivering food to shut-ins to collecting winter clothing for those in need, opportunities to express appreciation, and to significantly impact people, abound.

Traditions are icing on the cake of life.

They provide a sense of belonging and remind us of who we are. Our customs can shape us and inspire us to be our best. However, traditions are not set in stone; we can adapt and modify customs as our lives progress. This year, whether your “new year’s” custom involves setting new resolutions or evaluating where you are and how to move ahead, consider creating a new tradition that connects you to your greater family and provides a memorable, significant reflection of what you most value.

Sharon Carlton Sharon Carlton, High Country Courtesies ©2013 As founder of High Country Courtesies, Sharon Carlton writes and speaks on modern etiquette and life skill topics. She is Director of High Country Cotillion, a social education program for youth and conducts High Country Courtesies customer service workshops.

Contact her at sharoncarlton@charter.net.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 | AAWMAG.COM

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Creston woman’s love story featured in new ‘Chicken Soup’ book

Melissa Halsey Caudill - Photo submitted

A Creston woman’s story of love can be read in the newest “Chicken Soup for the Soul” book, titled “The Dating Game.”

Melissa Halsey Caudill says she had always written her thoughts in a private journal, which progressed to a blog a few years ago.

Earlier this year, she says, she “got up the courage” to start a public blog and soon realized (through reader feedback) that people could identify with what she had to say.

“Someone suggested entering my works in writing contests, which prompted me to do an online search for writing submissions.

That’s when I stumbled upon the ‘Chicken Soup for the Soul’ page and realized that my writings fit with the theme of their books, so I decided to take a chance.”

Melissa submitted her story in April, and her gamble paid off. She received an email in August, saying that she had made it through

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the first round of cuts. In late October, she received word that she had officially made it into the book.

“When I got the first email from ‘Chicken Soup for the Soul,’ I immediately started crying,” she says. “I couldn’t believe I had been chosen. ‘Chicken Soup’ receives thousands of submissions for every book, and I was blown away that my submission had made the cut.”

The newest ‘Chicken Soup’ book features 101 stories about looking for love and finding fairy tale romance, from bad dates to blind dates, online dating, chance meetings and more.

“My story is about how love is not always butterflies and rainbows,” Melissa says. “Real love takes work, dedication and sacrifice.

Sometimes, it’s just plain uncomfortable.”

Her story is titled “Uncomfortable.”

Melissa says her story is “somewhat” about her boyfriend, Richard Edmondson.

“It is really about all love, whether it be

parental, romantic or friendship,” she says.

“Something Richard said to me is what inspired me to write the story and became the basis for the whole message.

“I’d like to give special thanks to Richard, who has been my biggest fan and supporter.

He has inspired me to show my writings to others. Without him, this wouldn’t have happened, and I am very grateful to him.”

Although Melissa has written for as long as she can remember, this is her first published work.

“I am just now starting to show my writings publicly,” she says. “The feedback has been wonderful.”

She received a one-time cash award of $200 for her story, in addition to 10 free copies of the book. As a contributor, she can also purchase the books at a discounted price and sell them at book signings.

Four book signings are planned for 2014.

The first one will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 1, at the Ashe County Library. At 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8, she will conduct a book signing and talk at the Watauga County Library.

She also did a book signing at Boondocks Brewing and Tap Room on Jan. 8.

Fans can also catch her starring in a twoperson play, “Love Letters” by A.R. Gurney,

at the Ashe County Arts Council on Friday, Feb. 14. This will be a combination dinner at a local restaurant, with the show and a book signing to follow. The event is presented by the Mosaic Stage Company.

Autographed copies of the book can be purchased at the book signings or at the Ashe County Arts Council in West Jefferson. Interested book buyers can also contact Caudill by email at caudillmelissa78@ yahoo.com.

Non-autographed copies are available at book retailers, book stores and online book retailers. For more information about the “Chicken Soup” book series, visit www.chickensoup.com.

About the author Melissa Halsey Caudill is a self-described “military brat” who graduated from high school in Giessen, Germany. She has an associate’s degree from Wytheville Community College in Virginia. She is the daughter of Jerry Halsey of Marion, Va., and Deborah Dalling of Indian Mound, Tenn. She is employed as a real estate paralegal with Dustin N. Stacy, PLLC, in Boone.

About “Chicken Soup for the Soul” “Chicken Soup for the Soul” publishes the “Chicken Soup for the Soul” book series.

In 2007, USA Today named “Chicken Soup for the Soul” one of the five most memorable books in the last quarter century. With more than 100 million books sold to date in the U.S. and Canada alone, more than 250 titles and translations into more than 40 languages, “Chicken Soup for the Soul” is one of the world’s best-known phrases. Today, 20 years after it first began sharing happiness, inspiration and wellness through its books, “Chicken Soup for the Soul” continues to entertain its readers with new titles, but has also evolved beyond the bookstore with a new line of pet food. For more information, visit www.chickensoup.com.

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Keeping the romance alive takes work Oh, the sweet rush of young love and the joy of planning a life together. It’s the time to dream about romance and growing old together — after many happy years of shared hopes, laughter, and goals.

During this planning time, couples joyfully focus on all of the wonderful reasons they have decided to spend their lives together; they can’t imagine needing to ever put forth effort toward their happiness, other than simply being together.

As a licensed marriage and family therapist and the mother of two young women, I have a few perspectives and facts that I wish all of my clients — and definitely my daughters — would know before their marriages.

As a happily married woman, I recall a few

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things I’ve learned, too.

You may have heard the adage that “Love is not just a feeling, it is an action.” That is the first and perhaps most important message I deliver to others and as a reminder to myself.

Love in a growing relationship requires the courage to be known to yourself and to your partner, a knowledge that can be very frightening, yet rewarding. It requires the courage to ask questions, to genuinely listen and to take action when new knowledge comes to light.

This new knowledge may indicate the need to extend kindness to your loved one (or to yourself); that one or both of you need to learn a new skill, face some fear or take care of other unresolved issues. Being willing to foster this type of action in yourself,

and within your relationship, is critical.

Asking important questions before marriage will not mean that these topics, or others, will not be a source of conflict later in your life together. So, another main area for consideration before marriage is how you handle communication — and inevitable conflict.

Everyone learns positive and negative messages about how to communicate, how to handle conflict and how to solve problems from the people around them, as well as from their experiences. Examining together how you handle communication, conflict resolution and problem solving can be very helpful in developing beneficial patterns for handling those issues in the future. There is a lot of reputable and useful information

Love in a growing relationship requires the courage to be known to yourself and to your partner, a knowledge that can be very frightening, yet rewarding. It requires the courage to ask questions, to genuinely listen and to take action when new knowledge comes to light. lessness and a concentrated focus on our partner. The main chemical involved in this process is dopamine, which offers an experience, biologically speaking, similar to a cocaine high. This intensity has been shown to last between one and three years. The shift in intensity that follows is often mistaken as “falling out of love,” when it is really a shift in brain chemistry and marks an opportunity to move into a deeper and more mature love.

Feeling comfortable together, and doing familiar activities with each other, routinely helps most people with feelings of belonging. It is also important for the long-term care of your relationship to do new things together, as novelty and a sense of adventure trigger dopamine and norepinephrine ac-

Wedding photos courtesy of Luster Studios www.lusterstudios.com

available on these topics in bookstores and on the Internet.

Premarital counseling, either with your pastor or with a psychotherapist is one way to examine key questions, styles of communication and conflict resolution before marriage. Be willing to learn and grow.

Another important factor is comprehending what happens chemically in our bodies when we fall in love. Most people understand pretty well about sex drive, and only a few people confuse physical attraction for love, but many people are confused about feeling secure within romantic love.

When we fall in love, very powerful brain circuits for pleasure are triggered — producing feelings of euphoria, energy, sleep-

tivity in the brain. These neurotransmitters are associated with energy, elation, focused attention and motivation — all of which are connected with romantic love.

Additional information and preparation can be useful in steering those joyful dreams and goals of marital bliss. Happy planning and best wishes.

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Julie Loven of Pineola is the author of “Effortless and Exquisite,” an Internet blog on which she

Julie Loven and her future husband, Tripp Polen. Photo submitted

A proposal

for all the world to see 28

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frequently posts fun and interesting topics.

In November, she reported a “not so average post,” as she described her proposal that millions of television viewers witnessed on the Bethenny Frankel Show.

It was one of those days, Julie says, that people remember their entire lives. “It is still extremely surreal, and I feel very blessed.”

For her birthday, she and her boyfriend Tripp Polen traveled to New York City, primarily for the popular television show.

“I had been chosen to go on the show and talk to Bethenny about my blog,” Julie says. Or so she thought.

Little did she know that Tripp had arranged to propose to her during the production.

“I was a nervous wreck,” Julie says. “I kept going over in my mind what I would say to Bethenny. I’d practiced at least a million times right up to the last minute.”

Julie had a backstage dressing room, but Tripp wasn’t allowed to accompany her.

“He was secretly filming a video that was played prior to our proposal and meeting with producers to go over the sequence of events,” she says.

Producer Jessica Yankelunas is the perfect combination of organization and compassion, Julie says, “and can weave an elaborate scheme in a pinch; she went above and beyond to make the day special for both Tripp and me.”

With a huge blister on her foot “from touring the city,” Julie could barely walk in heels as she was led to her studio seat. “I also felt like I was going to pass out from being so nervous,” she says, describing the atmosphere as “awesome,” with a fun crew, a lot of pre-show dancing and great music.

“And Bethenny’s entrance was captivating.

She is gorgeous.” Julie says. “She stood right beside us for a good part of the show and even sat in Tripp’s lap once. The studio was packed with energy as Bethenny worked the audience and bantered with the guests.”

When Julie received her cue that she was next, she says, “I thought I was going to have a stroke.”

While “furiously rehearsing in my head and not paying attention to my surroundings,” she says, she froze when Tripp appeared on the set’s jumbo screen. “I was stunned, but once he said my name, the rest was a blur.”

Tripp knelt on one knee and proposed, but Julie says she really doesn’t remember it all.

“I was so shocked and very confused,” she says. “I couldn’t understand how this all fit in with my question to Bethenny. It was a genuine surprise, and part of me didn’t realize what was happening. Of course I said yes, but it was in a daze. As he stood up, I blurted out, ‘What about the blog?’ That was awful, but probably funny at the same time.”

Within one hour, Julie spent time with a celebrity she greatly admires while becoming engaged to a special man, “in such a special way,” she says. “He worked so hard to do this for me.”

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Bethenny did talk about Julie’s blog.

“She said ‘Effortless and Exquisite’ out loud!

She is also sending us on our honeymoon back to New York.”

Returning to her dressing room, Julie says she was walking on air — never mind the blister.

“Bethenny changed my life in many ways, but most of all, she has encouraged me when I most needed it to stay focused on my goals,” Julie says, “She empowers me — and women everywhere — to reach our highest potential and live a good life. Bethenny is such a role model — and was watching as I got engaged. How amazing is that?”

It was a dream come true, Julie says. “I have read about days like this, but I would’ve never imagined it could happen to me. I am so grateful to my future husband for making it all possible.” sherrie norris Editor, All About Women

See more at:

www.effortlessandexquisite.com/2013/10/ my-exquisite-day-on-bethenny-frankel. html#sthash.xw64hmEj.dpuf

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Fireworks, Family and Friends

A Wedding to Remember

The “traditional” wedding ceremony of Meredith Church and Jesse Pipes on Sept. 28, 2013, at White Fence Farm in Trade, Tenn., was an unforgettable event for everyone involved. It was their “pre-ceremony” at State Line Fireworks that might go down in history.

Before choosing their wedding venue, the couple had earlier obtained a marriage license in North Carolina.

To get the formalities out of the way, Meredith says, they decided to exchange vows at the state line prior to proceeding onto the farm for the formal ceremony.

“The store owner said we were the first couple to be married in their parking lot,” Meredith says.

Referring to it as the “morning wedding,” she says standing under the state line sign, wearing jeans and saying her vows to Jesse was real and meaningful. “It was just as special as when I was dressed in white,” she says.

“It made me realize that it really is the saying of vows — and meaning them — that makes the moment special.”

Her wedding day was an incredible experience of connection, Meredith describes. “As was our desire, we focused on fun, family and friends and were not too concerned with fancy details,” she says.

From New York, family friend Pam Eberle helped Meredith through the planning process, as well as coordinating the entire wedding weekend, while helping her stay within a limited budget.

Planning the wedding

Photos by Ellen Gwin

From the beginning, Meredith was determined that her wedding would be fun, not stressful.

Without a particular color scheme, she offered her seven bridesmaids the freedom to basically choose their own attire. “I did not want them to buy a dress that they probably wouldn’t wear again,” she says. “I went with the mismatched theme, gave them a few photos and guidelines, and we went from there.”

Meredith had visions of blues and tans, but the color palate took on its own personality with lace becoming a central theme. “It wasn’t required, but I loved it,” she says. “I decided on bouquets of white for my attendants and a warm and romantic one for myself. I saw it on Pinterest and just fell in love with it — especially the drooping, flowing buds called ‘Love Lies Bleeding.’ A friend of mine, Andrea Ellingson, did the bouquets and boutonnières, and they were exquisite.”

Meredity chose her sister and lifetime friends as her wedding attendants.

Having no idea what the groomsmen were wearing and feeling “ a little nervous” about how everything would look when brought together, Meredith says, it all turned out beautifully.

In addition to her sister who served as maid of honor, her attendants were chosen from lifetime friends. “It’s an incredible group, and I couldn’t imagine the day without them. I had three friends that I had known since childhood; one I met in middle school, one from college and one from graduate school. We spent the night before the wedding at the farmhouse on the White Fence Farm property and stayed up late telling stories and laughing. It was so much fun.”

Getting ready at the farmhouse was special, too. “We made breakfast together, had tea and coffee, talked and lounged around in our pajamas. Nelson Garcia came out and did our hair for us, and Jesse’s sister, Chelsea Smith, who is an esthetician, did our makeup.

We sat on the porch while the morning mist was burning off in the valley and got pretty.”

She describes her wedding as “a very communal effort” with friends and family providing potluck appetizers and desserts, pictures, videos, games and music. “And we did have an amazing DJ for dancing,” she says. “It was really just fun, and I think people enjoyed being a part of everything in

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that way.” The wedding had a vintage appeal from the natural farm setting and wooden tables to centerpieces of sunflowers in mason jars accented with coleus and wild berries.

“I had decided early on that I didn’t want to spend an extravagant amount on things that wouldn’t matter too much in the end,” Meredith says. “I just wanted to make sure it was an unforgettable party for our family and friends. My dog, Arwen, was in the wedding, and we had a bonfire, fireworks, barbecue, and lots of laughing and dancing,” including an impromptu dance-off to Michael Jackson’s music.

The couple spent their first night as husband and wife at the farmhouse with many friends camping nearby. “And many chipped in to help us clean up the next day. We felt really loved and connected with our friends and family. It was just incredible,” she says.

With Jesse in pursuit of his master’s degree at the time, his schedule did not allow the couple to take time for a honeymoon, but friends gifted them with a room at the Inn at Ragged Gardens. Two weeks later, Meredith co-led a program to Cuba for students in the master’s program, and Jesse was one of the participants. “So, although it wasn’t exactly a romantic getaway for two, we really enjoyed spending that week learning and traveling together,” she says. A summer trip to France

this year will suffice as “a real honeymoon.”

Making their home near her parents in Foscoe, settling into married life “has definitely been an adjustment,” Meredith adds. “I love the comfortable feeling of knowing he’s going to be there for me, no matter what, and that we have lots of years ahead of us to plan and dream together.”

It’s some of the “mundane changes,” she says, “like how to handle finances,” that are a bit more challenging than she imagined.

“I hadn’t thought about the reality of trying to manage money together before, but we’ve been figuring things out.”

Advice to future brides Meredith says it’s important to remember that weddings should be meaningful and fun.

“You can end up spending so much money on decorations and fancy cake and fancy food, but really, if you can just have a special ceremony and then a real ‘throw-down’ good time afterwards, that’s really what makes the memories,” she says. “Choosing an already beautiful setting makes a difference, and having the talents of good friends and family help make everything beautiful without spending tons of money.”

Meredith admits that she was never

one of those girls who had her wedding all planned out and imagined since she was young, so when she got engaged and started looking at bridal magazines, she was overwhelmed. “I felt disconnected from what it seemed like I was supposed to want,” she says. “Thank goodness for my friend, Tracy Parrish, who bought me a book, a tremendous help, called ‘A Practical Wedding’ by Meg Keene.”

How it all began Meredith grew up in Boone, was a Spanish major at Appalachian State University and obtained her master’s degree in Latin American studies from the University of Kansas. She currently works as the international programs coordinator for ASU’s Walker College of Business. She loves hiking and camping, trail running and biking, walking the dogs, taking care of her little flock of chickens and generally being outdoors. She also enjoys pottery and reading.

A friend introduced Meredith to Jesse soon after her return from Kansas.

“My friend knew that I was interested in working in Latin America,” Meredith says.

“Jesse was part of the leadership of World Camp, a nonprofit that he and friends started while studying at Chapel Hill, with the goal of providing HIV-AIDS prevention education in Malawi and later in India and Honduras.”

Meredith applied for a job with World Camp as a program coordinator; Jesse hired her, and they later started dating.

International work has been a big part of their lives for many years. “My current job has kept me traveling,” Meredith says. “Jesse and I have been able to work together on our program to Malawi, where World Camp hosts ASU students at their base in Lilongwe.”

The couple had been dating “for a good long while,” Meredith says, when they became engaged on June 17, 2013.

“We had been long distance for a few years and spent one year apart when we had decided to separate,” she says. “My grandmother had really loved Jesse and hoped we would get back together.”

During the summer when they weren’t dating, Meredith says, “Grammie had declared that she wanted to visit Jesse in Asheville, and I said we could see if he would be OK with it.”

He was more than OK with it. “We both realized that something was still there,” she says. “We started spending time together again and dating long distance. Grammie was so happy. She had said for years that we better hurry up and get married before she died.”

Meredith always teased her grandmother in return. “When we got engaged, she was one of the first people I called. Sadly,

Grammie didn’t make it to our wedding. She passed away in July.”

Sadly, too, Meredith says, Jesse’s father also passed away on Aug. 10.

“Somehow,” she says, “going through our losses and grief — even though at times I wondered if we should wait to get married — brought us closer together. I was able to see a side of Jesse that I never had seen before.

We missed them both on our wedding day. I had Grammie’s ring on the day we wed.”

sherrie norris Editor, All About Women

Good friends and family help to make things beautiful for Meredith and Jesse.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 | AAWMAG.COM

33

Ann Cook -wedding director, peacemaker and problem solver Photo by Sherrie Norris

For more than 50 years, Ann Cook of Boone has directed countless weddings; she is known as one who gets the job done and is sometimes referred to as “the sergeant.”

“I like for things to go as planned,” she says. “If they don’t, you’re likely to have a mess on your hands.”

Patience, foresight, flexibility and a strong will are important attributes for a wedding director, she says. “You run across a lot of situations that you have to handle. It’s not an easy job, but it’s something I love to do.”

She was 18 when she began helping her father, a local pastor, with weddings.

Directing continues to be a labor of love for Ann, a wife and mother of two and grandmother of five. As the former director (and current volunteer and mentor) of Hope Pregnancy Center, Ann loves young people and finds great joy in sharing their special events.

“To be with young couples as they start their lives together, and then to be with others when they choose to have their baby, have been some of the greatest times of my life,” she says.

With involvement in a couple’s life for an

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average of six to eight months before a wedding, Ann says, you get to know them well.

“Then, you spend an entire weekend with them, their families and their closest friends.

You see a lot and you have to learn how to steer everyone in the same direction.”

She has directed 50 or more weddings in a single year, she says, and at one time, three in one weekend.

She has mentored younger women in directing weddings, too. “There’s more to it than one might expect,” she says.

She’s written announcements for the newspaper, seated guests when ushers didn’t show up, made corsages and organized the receptions. “You name it and I’ve done it,” she says. “Weddings have become more specialized these days, and now it takes several people to do what I’ve always done.”

Communication is vital to wedding success, Ann says. “You have to stay in close contact all the way through and expect things to change without notice. It’s not easy when the bride wants one thing and the mother wants another; I usually listen to the bride. It’s her day, after all.”

The initial visit with a couple usually requires two or three hours, Ann says, “with a lot of information to go over together.”

She has been known to give advice on

marital relations and tells couples that divorce is a word not in her vocabulary.

Many couples have come to her years later and thanked her for advice.

She is now directing weddings for children and grandchildren of those she helped years ago.

She’s never had anyone left at the altar and believes her pre-marital pep talks really help.

“I tell them what God has called them to be, as a husband and a wife, and that if they start their marriage off the right way, it’s going to be that way forever,” she says.

Ann believes that a wedding day should be one of joy and happiness and that the couple shouldn’t have to worry about details.

“From the start, I tell the couple that their wedding is an equal opportunity event and that they both have a say-so about what happens.”

She says her role is multi-faceted. “I’m a go-between, a peacemaker and a problem solver who sees the whole picture. I can be flexible, but if everyone understands their roles — and the rules — things go better.”

Even small things can make a big difference. “I’ve caught misspellings and incorrect grammar on invitations, as well as wrong wedding dates and names,” she says.

She likes to keep rehearsals at 45 minutes, but have had them last more than two hours. “There’s a lot to go over, but there’s no need to keep going over it. They either get it or they don’t,” she says. “People don’t like rules, but you have to have them. It doesn’t bother me for them to get mad at me. I’m there to do my job.”

Even the best-laid plans often go awry, she says. “Not everything will always go as planned, no matter how hard you try. I always tell the wedding party that nobody knows, except us, what’s supposed to happen; if it doesn’t go as planned, no one knows the difference.”

Ann tells them how to stand to keep from fainting, and she carries ammonia vials — just in case. “I’ve seen some big boys fall over on the altar,” she says. She always keeps a pair of black socks handy, too.

“It’s little things that I’ve learned to be ready for,” she says.

“I keep lip gloss with lanolin handy to helps rings go on and off fingers easier.

When you’re nervous, you tend to swell.”

Rubbing alcohol? “To stretch shoe leather if a guy’s shoes are too tight.”

Ann doesn’t advise letting the ring bearer carry the rings. “It’s best to leave that to the best man and maid of honor.”

Ring placement is important, too, “especially for pictures,” she says. “The wedding band must be closest to your heart; if wearing her engagement ring, the bride needs to shift things around.”

She doesn’t encourage children 5 or under to be in weddings. “There’s no telling what they will do, and it’s usually funny, but it doesn’t need to take away from the bride,” Ann says. “I’ve had them (kids) go to sleep, skip down the aisle and dance.” She’s also occasionally bribed them to behave.

Advance planning works best, Ann says.

“When you get in a hurry, you forget things.”

A lot has changed through the years, she points out, and tradition is one of the biggest. “Very few want it (tradition) anymore.

Young men rarely ask a father for his daughter’s hand in marriage; many brides have no idea why they should wear white or why the top layer of their cake should be saved. In fact, many couples don’t even want a cake, and we can’t throw rice because it might kill birds. Many ceremonies are not religious, and seldom is communion observed.”

Rolling with the tide, Ann enjoys what she does. “I’m good for a few more,” she says with her familiar chuckle.

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 | AAWMAG.COM

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Keeping the focus with

Holly Liesegang Photos by Leda Winebarger

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Holly Liesegang and her husband Eric Cass did not plan a fancy wedding. “We are both downto-earth and we didn’t want to put on a big show; we didn’t strive for a perfect wedding, we just wanted to get married,” she says. “We didn’t want to lose track of why we were doing it in the first place. It’s important, I think, that brides don’t get lost in the chaos that so often happens.”

Even in a simple ceremony, Holly says, chaos can happen.

Nearly four months following her September wedding at Rumple Memorial Presbyterian Church in Blowing Rock, Holly is still laughing as she recounts some of the unexpected events surrounding her wedding.

“A sense of humor is necessary, or otherwise it could ruin a bride’s day. You just can’t let it get to you, no matter what happens.”

It all started with rehearsal on Friday, two days before the wedding — and the first time the couple’s families officially met.

“Another wedding was scheduled at the church on Saturday, so we were not able to have our rehearsal like most people do on the night before the wedding,” Holly says.

“Two of our groomsmen couldn’t make it to town on Friday, but everything else went well.”

A great rehearsal dinner was held at Casa Rustica, Holly says, but since she and her friends are all under age, they couldn’t drink to a toast.

As a Blowing Rock native growing up with her younger sister, and as the daughter of Glen and Linda Liesegang, (local physician and pharmacist, respectively), Holly says she never really dreamed of her wedding day.

After graduating from Watauga High School in 2011, she attended Caldwell Community College before entering Appalachian State University, where she has recently changed her major from molecular biology to health promotion. In the meantime, she also became a mother to her daughter, Helena.

Holly met Eric Cass from Miller’s Creek while at Caldwell.

Helena, 2, in wide-eyed wonder as her mother’s flower girl.

“We had two classes together, but we never talked at all. Only after the semester ended did we start dating,” she says.

Both Holly and Eric “knew immediately” that they were meant to be together, she

‘

When I got to know him, I just knew he was the one,’ she says.

‘He was different and we had a connection right off the bat. We both knew it was right. I’ve never enjoyed being around someone so much. We are both unusual, a little quirky; we work well together and enjoy so many of the same things.

From choosing to walk down the aisle without her glasses — “I couldn’t see a thing except Eric,” she says — to cutting and serving her own wedding cake “because we just hadn’t thought about it in advance,” Holly has memories that will last forever, as all brides should.

’

says. “We started dating in January, and he proposed in April.”

The couple originally planned a small wedding for immediate family members only, but it quickly evolved into something larger, with about 100 guests.

On Sept. 14, after “some quick planning,”

Holly says, she and Eric exchanged vows in a 3 p.m. ceremony at the Blowing Rock church where she had attended with her family since childhood.

“I had a few ideas of what I wanted, but nothing elaborate,” she says. “I just wanted it to be the right setting.” Her two bridesmaids were dressed in the soft green shade of clover; Helena, as flower girl, wore a fancy little white dress with a clover-colored sash. The groomsmen, doubling as ushers, were dressed in formal suits similar to that of the groom.

Choosing not to wear her glasses, Holly said, prevented her from being distracted. “I was able to focus only on Eric, which is the way it should’ve been.”

The couple exchanged traditional vows, but the music was “unconventional,” Holly says, including selections, adapted for the piano, by Lana Del Rey and Mumford and Sons. “The church pianist was wonderful and revised the versions to fit the wedding,” she says.

Having played her part perfectly in the rehearsal two days prior, Helena, 2, decided to throw the flower petals “everywhere” during the ceremony, Holly says, and one of her bridesmaids, “a real trooper,” was healing from a broken ankle.

Holly says it’s a good thing that she doesn’t require perfection.

Continued on page 38 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 | AAWMAG.COM

37

“We had not done fittings for the groomsmen before the wedding, so one didn’t fit into his vest; Eric’s grandmother came to our rescue with alterations at the last minute,” she says. “The florist doesn’t deliver on Sundays, so we had to get our flowers on Saturday and keep them in our fridge overnight. My make up artist went to the wrong address, so hair and makeup was late getting done; I was still getting my make-up on and last minute touches to my dress as the processional began.”

Her wedding director went out of town before the wedding. “She did the rehearsal, but had someone else stand in for her at the actual ceremony.”

Describing her service, the reception that followed at Chetola Resort, and much of the activity between the two as “unique,” Holly says, there were many fun and interesting moments from beginning to end.

She is a vegetarian, and her husband “eats meat and a lot of junk food,” she says, so menu planning required flexibility (as does grocery shopping and meal preparation, she has since learned.)

“We had a buffet with vegetarian options, some Greek dishes, meatballs, chicken tenders and simple things like that, which many people seem to enjoy.

Eric and I didn’t get to eat anything — but I heard it was good,” Holly says.

They had a dance floor, but she and Eric aren’t dancers. “We had the first dance, but it was awkward. Neither of us dance very well, so we called other Holly and Eric Cass couples up to dance with us.” enjoyed being around someone so much.

“We didn’t think about having someone We are both unusual, a little quirky; we work to cut the cake, so we went to find a knife and well together and enjoy so many of the same started cutting it ourselves.” And, the cake things.” was delicious, she says, a multi-layered that included chocolate with mint chips, marble, Honeymoon Italian Cream and chocolate hazelnut.

The couple enjoyed their wedding night Her sister and friends played Beach in Asheville; they ate pizza in their motel Boys and Beatles music during the receproom for their first official meal as husband tion, Holly says with a laugh, “disregarding and wife. “He loves pepperoni and I always my playlist, but we ended up having a really go with mushroom, so it was half and half. wide variety of music — from Elton John to “We’re pretty good at compromising.”

The Doors.”

A few days later, they went to a Myrtle Holly did her best to keep her costs at a Beach motel, compliments of friends. minimum, but it still ended up being more “Our privacy was interrupted when the than she expected. “I am so grateful to both housekeeping staff barged into our room, my parents for all their help,” she says. “My unannounced,” Holly says, “and I got food mom worked really hard to make it special, poisoning after eating Chinese food.” and I am really appreciative of everything They came back to the High Country she did.” laughing, while realizing things don’t always Thoughts of marriage scared Holly — ungo as planned. “It wasn’t all bad,” she says. til she met Eric. “When I got to know him, I “We loved our romantic walks on the beach.” just knew he was the one,” she says. “He was Holly and Eric settled into an apartment different, and we had a connection right off near Boone where Eric lived prior to their the bat. We both knew it was right. I’ve never

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wedding. “We adore each other,” she says.

“It’s nice being married and knowing I don’t ever have to feel lonely again. We are compatible and are adjusting well. We have our disagreements, but what couple doesn’t? Everything can’t be idealistic — that’s not reality. The best thing you can do is work through situations. A successful marriage requires a lot of compromise. It’s great that respect and love for each other win out.”

“And I wouldn’t have married anyone without Helena’s approval,” Holly says.

“They adore each other.”

Holly is currently a part-time student at Appalachian State and works at Blowing Rock Market. Eric works in food service and is pursuing his teaching degree at App State.

sherrie norris Editor, All About Women

Contemporary vs. tradition:

A bride must decide Many couples today are taking the contemporary route for their wedding ceremonies and leaving traditions by the wayside. Each couple must choose what is best for them as they plan the most wonderful day of their lives.

We think you will enjoy reading about a few time-honored wedding customs, how they started and what they mean.

■ The Bride’s Veil, which was yellow in ancient Greece and red in ancient Rome, usually shrouded her from head to foot and kept the groom from seeing her face during the ceremony. Not only could the groom not see in, but neither could the bride see out, requiring her father to escort her down the aisle and literally “give her away.”

■ Diamond Engagement Ring: In 860 AD, Pope Nicholas 1 decreed that an engagement ring become a required symbol of nuptial intent, insisting that engagement rings be made of gold, showing a financial sacrifice on the part of the prospective husband. Another theory is that since the diamond was the hardest and most enduring substance in nature, it symbolized that a marriage would also last forever.

■ Wedding Ring: Since gold was highly prized in ancient Rome, a gold band came to signify everlasting love and commitment. Earlier legend: husbands wrapped circles of braided grass around brides’ wrists and ankles, believing it would keep her spirits from leaving her. The bands later evolved into leather, carved stone, metal, then silver and gold, and worn just on the finger.

■ Ring Finger: Centuries ago, it was believed that the third finger on the left hand was connected by a vein running directly to the heart.

■ Bridal Showers: Many times, an unapproving father refused to provide a dowry for his daughter, so her friends “showered” her with gifts to show moral support and help her prepare for marriage.

■ Tie The Knot: Roman brides wore girdles tied in many knots, and it was the groom’s “duty” to untie them following the ceremony (in private chambers, of course).

■ Wedding: In early times, some brides were kidnapped and some were “purchased.” The price for a bride could be land, social status or cash.

■ Wearing White: The color white has been a symbol of joyous celebration since early Roman times and by the 20th century, symbolized purity.

■ Right vs. Left: Why does the bride stand to the groom’s left during a ceremony?

In ancient times, when a groom “kidnapped” his bride, he positioned her at his left side to protect her, which in turn, freed his right hand to draw his sword if suddenly attacked or ambushed by the bride’s father.

■ Wedding Cake: In ancient Rome, a loaf of bread was broken over a bride’s head to symbolize hope for a fertile and fulfilling life. Guests ate the crumbs, which were believed to bring them good luck. In Middle Ages England, guests brought small cakes to a wedding and put them in a pile, which the bride and groom later stood over while kissing. Thus, the multi-tiered idea was born.

■ Bridal Party: In early days, the bride, her groom and their friends walked together to the church, afraid that someone — possibly a rejected suitor — would spot the happy couple and put a curse on them. The groom’s friends wore clothes almost identical to his, and the women costumed themselves like the bride; the disguises tricked

evil-doers into letting the real bride and groom live happily ever after.

■ Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue: “Old” represented ties to a bride’s past; “new:” hope for the future; “borrowed” signified long-lasting, dependable friendships, and “blue” represented faithfulness.

■ Garter and Bouquet Toss: In the 14th century, it was customary for the bride to toss her garter to the men, though sometimes the men became drunk at the wedding party and tried to remove it themselves.

Thus, better for the groom to remove and toss the garter to unmarried males of marriageable age. The bride began tossing her flowers to unwed girls, with the one catching either thought to be the next to marry.

■ Honeymoon: In ancient times, many marriages were by capture, not choice; men often carried off an unwilling woman to a secret place where her relatives wouldn’t find them. As the moon went through all its phases (about 30 days), they hid from searchers and drank a brew made from honey. Hence, the word honeymoon.

■ Bad Luck To See His Bride?

Brides were once considered property of their fathers, who arranged the marriage without the daughter’s consent. The marriage of an unattractive woman was often arranged with a prospective groom from another town without either of them having seen their future spouse. In more than one instance, when the groom saw his future wife for the first time on the day of the wedding, he changed his mind and left her standing at the altar. To prevent this from happening, it became “bad luck” for the groom to see his bride on the day of the wedding, prior to the ceremony.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 | AAWMAG.COM

39

WHS grad proposes at basketball game

Every potential groom needs a little help, and Caleb Courtney didn’t mind getting a few high school students to help him pop the question.

Photo by Michael Russell

There was a time when Caleb Courtney and Kelly Sweeney were members of the Watauga athletic department.

Their return to Lentz-Eggers Gym was memorable for them and the near-capacity crowd watching Watauga play basketball against Avery on a Tuesday night in December.

Caleb took a deep breath and then took a knee before asking Kelly for her hand in marriage during halftime of the boys’ game.

He told the unsuspecting crowd and the unsuspecting Kelly that he wanted to get married — and had the ring to prove it.

“I was very surprised,” Kelly says. “I kind of had a clue when he said he went to the bathroom and picked up a microphone.”

Caleb had help popping the question.

Several students, many of them being the junior varsity cheerleaders that Kelly coaches at the school, held up individual letters painted on paper that spelled out “Kelly, will you marry me?”

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She didn’t need a paper sign to spell out her response. Her embrace spoke volumes.

“She said ‘yes,’” Caleb says. “We’ve been together for five years, so I knew that she knew.”

The two first met as freshmen at Watauga High School and started dating when they were sophomores. Caleb played basketball at Watauga, while Kelly was a cheerleader for the Pioneers.

Both graduated from the school in 2010.

In 2013, Kelly is the junior varsity cheerleader coach and a student at Caldwell Community College, where she studies early childhood education. Caleb is a student at Appalachian State, where he studies recording and production.

Caleb admitted to still shaking with nerves even after he proposed. He said he chose a basketball game because between his playing for the Pioneers, and her cheering for them, it was something that bonded them together.

“I played basketball here, and I met her while I was a basketball player and she was a cheerleader,” he says. “I wanted to stand up in front of the community. She didn’t want anything big, but that’s not what I am, so we talked about it one day, and she said, ‘You can do whatever you want.’ So, I chose a basketball game.”

Editor’s note: We have since learned that Kelly and Caleb will be married at the beach on Sept. 20, 2014, with a reception in

The two first met as freshmen at Watauga High School and started dating when they were sophomores. Caleb played basketball at Watauga, while Kelly was a cheerleader for the Pioneers.

Kelly Sweeney accepts the marriage proposal of Caleb Courtney during a basketball game at LentzEggers gym at Wattauga High School.

Photo by Mark Branch

Boone to celebrate with friends on Sept. 27.

“We have really enjoyed the support from the community and look forward to our years ahead of us,” says Kelly.

®

STEVE BEHR Sports Editor, Watauga Democrat sports@wataugademocrat.com

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41

Wedding Planner Elizabeth Hempfling Finds the Crown Jewel Elizabeth Hempfling knows how to make her clients feel like royalty. As a North Carolina native and longtime special events planner, Elizabeth has gained valuable knowledge of the area and all it has to offer for those planning their special occasions in the High Country.

In May 2012, Elizabeth put her expertise to work, with the help of her multitalented team, and formed the area’s first wedding resource center. It’s her job, she says, to make sure that the event planning process — especially for couples and their families — is easy and enjoyable.

With the help of other special event experts, and now including decor consulting and floral designing, the Wedding Resource Center, located in the heart of Boone, offers a list of the most reputable and capable event professionals found anywhere.

“Brides can enjoy a day at our King Street location browsing through information on local photographers, caterers, florists and much more,” says Elizabeth. It’s a one-stop shop that helps them find the

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answers to all their needs.

Elizabeth frequently travels to wedding conferences and tours properties for destination weddings and honeymoons throughout the country and internationally. On a recent day trip, Elizabeth says, a “lovely gem,” which she now manages, practically turned up in her own back yard.

The Smithmore Castle in nearby Spruce Pine is a newly renovated event venue situated among the most amazing mountain views, she says, and includes a separate banquet hall for large parties and dinners.

“Every bride should have the opportunity to feel like a queen on her big day,” Elizabeth says, “so why not get married in a castle?"

The Smithmore Castle is a 121-acre private mountain estate located on top of English Knob near the Great Smoky Mountains. The 12,000-square-foot mansion has six bedrooms and nine bathrooms; it includes a billiards room, a bar/ lounge, commercial kitchen and a dining room with seating for 10, with a fireplace and ceiling frescos. It also has a wine cel-

lar, courtyard, giant great room with marble floors and a massive two-story stone fireplace and crystal chandelier. The two main bedrooms connect to the four-story towers, each of which contains its own private hot tub. At an elevation at 3,688 feet, the "Castle in the Sky" offers one of the most amazing views in North Carolina with a spectacular 270-degree view of Mount Mitchell, Toe River Valley, the Continental Divide and multiple layers of mountain ranges.

A 3,000-square-foot out-parcel building, known as Crown Hall, is nestled in the woods below the main house. Crown Hall boasts a commercial kitchen, a gym, banquet hall, bride room, separate men’s and ladies’ restrooms — specifically designed for hosting weddings and receptions. Numerous trails allow for mountain biking or hiking and exploration of the many caves located throughout the estate.

Conveniently located five minutes from the Avery County Airport and downtown Spruce Pine, 10 minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway, 30 minutes from Beech and Sugar Mountain ski resorts,

'Every bride should have the opportunity to feel like a queen on her big day. so why not get married in a castle?' - Elizabeth Hempfling and 40 minutes from Asheville, Smithmore Castle is the ideal setting for weddings, meetings, family gatherings, corporate retreats, celebrities, private guests or any special event.

It’s easy to see that Elizabeth wears many hats — or shall we say crowns; she also leads her fellow area vendors as the president of ACES (Association of Consultants and Event Services); www.acesnc. com. You can now find Events by Elizabeth Ashley at www.eventsbyelizabethashley. com, and The Wedding Resource Center at 703 West King Street in Boone at weddingresourcenc.com. For more information on Smithmore Castle, visit www. smithmore.com.

A winter scene at Smithmore Castle. Photo submitted

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Blue Ridge Acupuncture & Integrative Health Claudia Burkhalter, F.N.P. Torrey Gorla, N.M.D., L.Ac., M.S.O.M. 610 State Farm Road, Suite B (behind WCEA) · Boone, NC 28607 828-265-8668 · www.blueridgeintegrativehealth.com

Corrie Freeman, center, with students, Patrick McKethen, left, and Jeffrey Collier.

Photo submitted

Teacher battling cancer inspires class to action Corrie Freeman, a fourth grade teacher at Hardin Park Elementary School, has taught more than reading and arithmetic to her class this school year.

Last May, Corrie, a native of Spruce Pine, was diagnosed with endometrial cancer. Described by her collogues as “selfless and just awesome,” Corrie decided early on to look for the silver linings.

Her physician, Dr. Beverly Womack of Harmony Center for Women’s Health and Vitality, recommended that she see a

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gynecological oncologist at Presbyterian Medical Center in Charlotte.

“Through tears, I remember asking if it would be possible for me to receive my consultations in Charlotte and my radiation treatment here (in Boone) so I could continue to teach,” she says. “I was delighted to find out that Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center in Boone was well equipped to provide state-of-the-art care for my cancer.”

By the beginning of the school year, Corrie, weary from a long summer of trips to Charlotte and radiation treatments in Boone, was more resolved than ever to

teach her 16th year of fourth graders.

“My goal from the beginning was to teach the class that cancer is not scary,” she says. “I knew there would be questions, like when my hair began to fall out, but I promised myself from the beginning that if God would allow me to continue to teach, I would continue to pour out His love for others.”

One example of this can be found in a book Corrie read to her class at the beginning of the school year called “Fill a Bucket: A Guide to Daily Happiness for Young Children” by Carol McCloud. Corrie explained to her class that in the year

‘I promised myself from the beginning that if God would allow me to continue to teach, I would continue to pour out His love for others.’

- Corrie Freeman ahead they would grow in areas beyond that of the textbook and that they would learn the importance of using the time they have been given to make a difference in the world.

As the holiday season approached, it became apparent that Corrie’s positive outlook on life proved to be contagious.

During a class discussion, a student raised his hand and asked, “Miss Freeman, can we do anything to fill the buckets of other people with cancer this Christmas?”

After brainstorming and a few phone calls, the students were delighted to learn that they could donate gifts for patients at the cancer center in Boone where their teacher had been receiving care.

Like elves in Santa’s workshop, the students all purchased buckets of their own — 22 in all — and filled them with Christmas candies, ornaments and gifts. They also wrote cards with encouraging messages.

As the sleigh, Corrie’s Toyota Camry was loaded with buckets; the students were delighted to learn that their teacher’s treatment over the past seven months had worked and she would be considered cancer free by Christmas.

“I am so thankful for the love and support of my students,” says Corrie. “The fact that they rallied around me and wanted to help others battling cancer had a huge impact on my own Christmas healing miracle.”

Corrie and two of her students made the Christmas delivery to the cancer center. As the students distributed the buckets with hugs attached, Corrie thanked the staff for their love, support and healing treatment.

For more information about Seby B. Jones Regional Cancer Center or how you can help “fill the buckets” of patients via donation support, visit www.apprhs.org/ cancercenter.

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LivingWell

Then comes baby....

First comes love, then comes marriage, then comes baby in a baby carriage. At least that is the hope of many women.

Times have changed. There has been a significant shift in the age of the new mom. A half century ago, most women planned on having their first child in their 20s. Many women are now postponing child bearing till their mid-30s or early

40s. For these women who wish to have a baby, there is an urgency of “now or never.”

The issue of fertility is pressing.

Research supports that there are habits that might increase the chance of conception, no matter the age of the mother.

Listed below are a few healthy tips that might help with conception.

MAINTAIN A HEALTHY WEIGHT Being either too heavy or too thin can affect a woman’s ability to conceive.

Women in one study who were considered overweight or obese, took twice as long to get pregnant. For women who were underweight, it was worse. The time to conception was increased four-fold in these women.

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 | AAWMAG.COM

much they are drinking. Consuming more than five cups of caffeinated coffee a day is associated with lower fertility. Research also indicates that women who drank two or more alcoholic beverages a day experienced a decrease in fertility by nearly 60 percent.

TAKE A MULTIVITAMIN WITH FOLIC ACID

WATCH WHAT YOU DRINK

In a major study of vitamins and folic acid to reduce the incidence of neuraltube defects in babies, the researchers noted a trend they hadn’t expected: the women taking the vitamins were more likely to conceive.

Although there is no evidence that moderate alcohol or coffee consumption adversely affects fertility, those trying to conceive should pay attention to how

Smoking cigarettes affects how receptive the uterus is to the egg. In men, smok-

STOP SMOKING

ing can reduce sperm production and damage DNA.

GO GREEN It might be worth plunking down a bit more cash for organic produce and earthfriendly cleaning products. Exposure to pesticides, especially agricultural pesticides, might harm both men and women’s fertility. There is evidence that exposure to some solvents and toxins — including those used in printing businesses and dry cleaning establishments — can also adversely affect fertility.

CULTIVATE SERENITY For some women, chronic stress can affect the hormones that trigger the ovaries to release eggs each month. Women under nonstop stress might ovulate less regularly. This makes it more difficult to plan “baby making” around the most fertile times of the month.

cystic ovaries (PCOS) – the single biggest cause of female infertility.

PARTNER WITH YOUR HEALTH PROFESSIONAL Fertility issues, especially for women in their 30s and 40s, should be addressed with a fertility specialist. A health professional can help head off potential issues that might affect the ability to conceive.

BALANCE YOUR BLOOD SUGAR When blood sugar is chronically high due to eating processed grains and sugary foods, the body attempts to bring it into balance by pumping insulin into the blood stream.

Insulin interferes with production of a protein called Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) Without SHBG, the body can wind up with too many sex hormones — especially testosterone — floating free. Too much free testosterone can interfere with ovulation. It is one of the factors in poly-

Sources - Lifestyle and Fertility Reprod Biol Endocrinol. 2013; 11: 66. 2013 July 16. doi: 10.1186/1477-7827-11-66 - Weight and fertility J Hum Reprod Sci. 2010 MayAug; 3(2): 62-67. doi: 10.4103/0974-1208.69332 - Blood Sugar and Fertility Webmd.com/infertilityand-reproduction/polycystic-ovary-syndrome - Supplementation and fertility dailymail.co.uk/ health/article-412334/Folic-acid-helps-fertilitywomen.html - Environmental Toxins effect on fertility Rebecca Z. Sokol, MD, MPH Professor Keck School of Medicine University of Southern California bonnie church Certified Life and Wellness Coach Author, columist, motivational speaker and certified trainer for TLS Weight Loss Solution

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Women and Heart Disease Excluding cancer, heart disease and stroke together claim more women’s lives than seven of the other top 10 leading causes of death combined. They claim the lives of more than 350,000 women every year nationwide and more than 10,500 yearly in North Carolina.

As with men, women’s most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or discomfort, although women are somewhat more likely than men to experience some of the other common symptoms, particularly: Shortness of breath Sweating Back, neck, arm or jaw pain Nausea, vomiting Indigestion Weakness, fatigue Dizziness, light-headedness Fortunately, by being aware of controllable risk factors and making some key lifestyle changes, women can greatly reduce many of the risk factors for heart disease. If you have already had a heart attack, these lifestyle changes can help you to a more successful recovery and prevent a second event.

Gender Difference or Gender Bias?

Often, people want to know if women’s health risk is due to gender difference or gender bias? The answer is: probably some of both.

Several factors may explain the differences in medical treatment of men and women: In the past, many of the cardiovascular research studies were conducted on men. Clinical studies currently underway may help shed light on the gender differences that affect diagnosis and treatment of women with heart disease.

Clinicians and patients often do not connect the chest pain of a woman with a heart attack. This can lead to the wrong di-

agnosis of her condition. Both women and men may have “classic” chest pain that grips the chest and spreads to the shoulders, neck, or arms; women may have chest pain that can come with abdominal pain, difficulty breathing (dyspnea), nausea and unexplained fatigue.

Women may avoid or delay seeking medical care, perhaps out of denial or not being aware of both, common or uncommon, heart attack symptoms.

Some medical tests and procedures may not be as accurate in women, so physicians may avoid using them, which means a heart attack or stroke may not be detected in women until later, with more serious consequences.

The exercise stress test, or stress ECG, may be less accurate in women.

For example, in young women with a low likelihood of coronary heart disease, an exercise stress test may give a false positive result. In contrast, single-vessel heart disease, which is more common in women than in men, may not be picked up on a routine exercise stress test. More precise noninvasive and less invasive diagnostic tests tend to cost more. These include thallium, sestamibi or echocardiographic stress tests.

Source: Appalachian Regional Healthcare System, American Heart Association and North Carolina State Center for Health Statistics

Heart Month Happenings At Appalachian Regional Healthcare System Feb. 7

National Wear Red Day Show your support of Heart Health Awareness by wearing red to work.

Feb. 8

HeartShape Join us at the Paul H. Broyhill Wellness Center from 9 A.M – 1 P.M. to raise awareness about heart health and stroke prevention. Free event. Open to the public.

Feb. 21

Zumbathon Support the THRIVE program by participating in a Zumbathon at the Paul H. Broyhill Wellness Center from 4 P.M. -7 P.M. For more information call 828.268.2623 or 262.9568

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014 | AAWMAG.COM

Tobacco Use and Prevention:

50 years of progress The month of January is a time to celebrate accomplishments made in tobacco prevention. In January 1964, the U.S. Surgeon General released a detailed report on the ill effects of smoking cigarettes. The report undoubtedly labeled cigarettes as the principal cause of lung cancer and heart disease.

We know now that cigarette use can lead to many other illnesses.

Fifty years after the release of the first Surgeon General's report on smoking and health, remarkable progress has been made in tobacco prevention. Since 1964, smoking prevalence among U.S. adults has been reduced by half. Unfortunately, tobacco use remains the leading preventable cause of disease, disability and death in the United States. An estimated 440,000 people die each year from illnesses associated with smoking, which is more than the number of people who die from AIDS, alcohol, car accidents, illegal drugs, murders and suicides combined.

This month (January) the Surgeon General is releasing the 50th anniversary Surgeon General's Report on Smoking and Health. The report will highlight 50 years of progress in tobacco control and prevention, present new data on the health consequences of tobacco use and detail initiatives that can end the tobacco use epidemic in the U.S. North Carolina has made a lot of progress in reducing the exposure to cigarette smoke through comprehensive tobacco prevention programs resulting in well-informed citizens, policy change and lower youth smoking rates. N.C.’s greatest accomplishment is the reduced numbers of youth who are smoking cigarettes.

In 2002, North Carolina received funds through the Master Settlement Agreement, which were placed in the N.C. Health and Wellness Trust Fund. With these funds, North Carolina was able to invest in programs aimed to curb the use of tobacco among youth. During the time period of the Health and Wellness

Trust Fund, middle school smoking rates dropped from 9.3 percent to 4.2 percent, and the high school smoking rate dropped from 27.3 percent to 15.5 percent, which is below the national average. After funding was removed from the N.C. Health and Wellness Trust Fund, the numbers are not expected to decrease as dramatically, and are likely to level out and begin to increase again over time. It is estimated that after cuts were made to tobacco prevention funding, youth rates could increase by as much as 2.3 percent, meaning more than 12,000 youth would start smoking annually.

On Jan. 2, 2010, N.C. restaurants and bars became smoke-free indoors. N.C. was one of the first tobacco states to pass a law requiring all restaurants and bars to be smoke-free. Not only did this give some smokers the push they needed to quit smoking, it also allowed for less exposure to secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke leads to many serious illnesses including asthma, respiratory infections and cardiovascular disease, which alone leads to about 47,000 deaths a year. Within the first year of the law, weekly heart attack emergency room visits were reduced by 21 percent. The support from the public also remains high, with 83 percent approving of the law.

Although enormous headway has been made in tobacco prevention, there remain issues that need to be solved. Adult smoking rates in N.C. remain above the national average. N.C. currently ranks 50th in tobacco prevention funding. Smoking caused health costs are estimated at $2.46 billion annually in N.C. The Healthy People 2020 objective is to reduce the national smoking rate to 12 percent; the current nation average is 19.0 percent.

Provided by: David C Willard, Northwest Tobacco Prevention Coordinator, Appalachian District Health Department. 126 Poplar Grove Connector Boone, NC 28607. Phone: (828) 264-4995; fax: (828) 264-4997; website: www.apphealth.com

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Sacred Vows For Life Blackberry couple meant what they said Belle and Gordon Bolick defied the odds when they eloped 71 years ago. Photo by Sherrie Norris

Belle Bolick is 86 and knows a thing or two about life and love. She was 15 and in the 10th grade when she and her boyfriend, Gordon, eloped.

Family members and friends were convinced the marriage wouldn’t last. Seventyone years later, the couple is still together.

“I lived in Blowing Rock and he lived at Bailey’s Camp,” Belle says. “We met in Blowing Rock and courted for a couple of years before we got married.”

It was Oct. 17, 1942, when friends drove the young couple to Gaffney, S.C., a popular wedding spot for many mountain couples at the time that required little, if any, prenuptial planning. “He was 18, and I think I told them that I was, too,” Belle says.

Their parents didn’t know what had transpired until the newlyweds returned home. “They took it pretty good,” she recalls.

“We started out living with his mother and dad until he went into the Navy in 1944.

He served for two years, and I stayed at my

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mother’s while he was gone.”

Upon his return, the couple found a place to rent and eventually built a house in the Blackberry community, where they still call home today.

“I worked, but when I started having babies, I stayed at home to take care of them until they started to school,” she says.

Those seven children have blessed their parents with 19 grandchildren and 25 greatgrandchildren.

Both Gordon and Belle retired at the age of 62, he from carpentry and she from 22 years of service as a nurse’s aid at Blowing Rock Hospital.

Life has been good in many ways, she says, despite her husband’s recent cancer diagnosis and the tragic death of their grandson, Jeremy Bolick, who died in a car crash four years ago.

She still cooks Sunday supper every week for her family “and whoever wants to come,” she says.

“I’ve always said that marriage was what

you made of it,” Belle says. ”You can make it good or you can make it bad. There’s got to be a lot of give and take on both parts.”

She says it’s important that young couples respect and help each other and try to understand each other.

“We have had a good marriage; he has been a kind and thoughtful husband and just a good husband, in general. Everything he does has made me feel special.”

About his bride, Gordon says, “She’s always been a good wife and mother and takes good care of all of us.”

The reason that many marriages don’t last these days, Belle says, is simple. “People don’t try to understand each other, and they put their own needs and wants ahead of the other.” sherrie norris Editor, All About Women

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A New Year, a new style I met Gary and Debbie Brown a year ago when they asked me to change the décor at their restaurant and microbrewery in downtown West Jefferson. Little did I know that it would spill over to doing the same in their home.

They had purchased a house that had been built in 1975 for many reasons, they said, among which were its views and proximity to their restaurant. Big selling points.

The house needed a lot of work, but they were up to the task.

Debbie asked me to stop by and give her some advice on where to start. We walked room by room discussing different ideas.

The house was filled with dated wallpaper and fixtures from the ‘70s. When we walked into the master bathroom, I had a hunch that’s where we might need to start.

The counters were made from a solid piece of mauve marble with cream swirls; if you placed anything on them, you might never find it again. The mirrors were gold framed, and the fixtures were four brass globes. The wallpaper was a busy floral with two patterns. It didn’t take long for us to decide that it would be our starting point.

The tan tile floors, which were installed more recently by the previous owner and were still in good shape, blended great with our color choices, which included Debbie’s favorite—blue.

The walls were painted a beautiful shade of blue, while the cabinets and trim received a coat of light cream that not only matched, but also complemented the color of their bedroom wall.

It was a perfect way to bring the two rooms together. New counters that coordinated with the flooring were installed, and chrome hardware was chosen for the new biscuit-color sinks.

We wanted to give the room some “glam,” so the old, brass globe sconces were removed, along with the gold-framed mirrors. In their place, four beautiful crystal and chrome sconces were hung, along with two custom oval mirrors. The large mirrors were successfully positioned to reflect the mountain view from the window on the opposite wall, therefore, bringing the outside in.

With accents in red, the room was given a fresh and inviting look — a huge difference from its former life.

Room by room, we are watching transformations take place, and I have the privilege of working with a great couple in the meantime.

Linda Killian Cabin Design Interior Decorating killiancabin@aol.com

Happy 2014! May it be your best year ever.

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Second Hand Rose “Second Hand Rose,” the latest book in Lin Stepp’s celebrated series of Smoky Mountain novels, plays off a question bound to plague every little girl at some point once she grows up: “Would Cinderella and the prince even work together?”

In this case, “Cinderella” is a single mother of three and “Prince Charming” the wealthy new owner of a local real estate firm in the heart of the Smokies in Tennessee. But, from the instant chemistry of their opening dance, the sentiment is the same — as is the woeful disparity in their social situations. Lin’s charming regional romance dives straight into the often overlooked complications of what, on the surface, should be a perfect fairy tale.

Released by Canterbury House Publishing in April 2013, “Second Hand Rose” is No. 5 of 12 projected novels in the Smoky Mountain series. Each contemporary romance features a different location in the mountains of eastern Tennessee. While the individual stories stand alone, recurring characters and places create a common thread for returning readers who enjoy a more immersive experience.

“Second Hand Rose” takes places in Wears Valley, Tenn., where Rosalyn “Roz” McCreary, a young widowed mother, struggles to make ends meet with her secondhand store for children’s goods. Meanwhile, handsome Frenchman Kendrick Lanier, a stranger to the area, has just entered the Tennessee real estate market to escape troubles of his own. When he catches the normally pragmatic Roz in a rare moment of self-indulgence, dancing alone to a favorite show tune, he quite literally waltzes into her life.

What seems a flawless setup for happilyever-after quickly devolves as reality settles back around the pair. Hot-tempered and hardworking, Roz spares no patience for the wealthy, whom she perceives as self-centered and wasteful. Nor does she appreciate Kendrick’s unwillingness to divulge the details

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of his past. Undeterred, he takes up pursuit.

The relationship that follows reads more like a tug-of-war than a couple’s slow dance, with Kendrick’s self-assured determination pitted against Roz’s stubbornness and distrust.

Of course, the novel contains no shortage of romantic moments, ranging from sweet to sultry. But readers need not blush.

Lin draws the line at light innuendo, creating a tantalizing atmosphere that is charged, but wholesome.

With “Second Hand Rose,” Lin delivers a classic Southern romance with heart. The modern story picks up where the fairy tales leave off, as two characters of vastly different backgrounds, and each with old wounds, must learn to be honest with themselves — and each other — if they wish to secure a happy ending. The romance between Roz and Kendrick is but one of many relationships that come into play as the novel’s inhabitants face the opportunity to mend or sever ties with family, community and God. Lin’s Smoky Mountain novels have caught the attention of several media personalities, among them country music singer and songwriter Dolly Parton, who said of the series, “Well, I’ve finally come across someone that believes in all the things that I do — love, family, faith, intrigue, mystery, loyalty, romance and a great love of our beloved Smoky Mountains. Dr. Lin Stepp, I salute you.”

Indeed, it is this “great love” and Lin’s gift for drawing readers into her environment that sets “Second Hand Rose” apart.

She does not limit the development of place to predictable nods to the South: grits, sweet tea, the telltale “y’all.” Instead, she peppers the world of her story with details instantly recognizable to those familiar with the mountains, from a daughter’s clogging to the “wheel and deal” thrift store and yard sale culture. Her rich, warm picture of the Smokies welcomes any who have ever called the Appalachians home.

“Second Hand Rose” promises a lush regional landscape, plucky characters and a

Ariel Parsons A graduate of Appalachian State, a quintessential English major and selfproclaimed word junkie.

About the author

new twist in almost every chapter. Although it draws readers through ups, downs and uncertainties, it is at its heart a feel-good book, a sentimental love story with a focus on healing, faith and family. Women who enjoy an upbeat romance and Appalachian literature will find contentment in a story as cozy and familiar as home.

Lin Stepp is a native of Tennessee with a background in business and education. She possesses more than 20 years of experience in marketing, sales and regional publishing. In 1989, she and her husband founded their own sales and publication business, S&S Communications. She is also a part-time faculty member at Tusculum College, where she teaches courses in research writing and psychology.

Lin has worked in writing and editing for regional publications and in the academic field.

“Second Hand Rose,” published by Canterbury House Publishing in 2013, is the fifth of 12 linked romances set in the Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee. The sixth in the series, “Down by the River,” is due for release in 2014.

For more information, including book signings and new releases, view her website at www. linstepp.com.

mom’sworld It is natural to contemplate the passing of years as the ball drops in Times Square each year and people find themselves looking back to their past and ahead to their future in the 10-second countdown of New Year’s Eve. But, do we acknowledge the person with whom we are accompanying through time — and the journey of that partnership?

Sometimes it is refreshing to experience the wedding of someone else than to take stock of one’s own relationships in all its blessings and adversities. Life moves forward with as much monotony, or wonder, as we allow it.

In the last few months, I have seen both the beauty of the marital vows and the aftermath of vows taken for granted — or perhaps not taken to heart at all.

Sometimes people in a committed relationship (whatever form that might take) remain together for convenience, financial reality, habit, children, a dream of what was, a dream of what could be, change, lack of change — and hopefully not lastly, love.

Balancing energy and effort going into the relationship, and the emotional, spiritual, and/ or physical rewards that one receives, can be

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so variable, person-to-person. The important thing is to take stock of such a relationship, whether you have been together 30 or 50 years or are just discovering who you are as a couple.

I still remember a patient of mine imploring me to not let the little things most couples do in a new relationship fade due to schedules, children, fatigue, money or other excuses. We were discussing the practicality of the holidays and how my husband and I would sometimes forego gifts for each other in order to put more resources toward our extended families and children. She emphasized the importance of the occasional card, date, dinner, flowers or sentiments to remind each other why you got together in the first place and why you want to stay together. I have truly tried to take this advice to heart and feel that it is important to seek to inspire one’s relationship with plans in the future and joy in the present.

It is jarring when such a union comes apart, but also unmistakably upsetting when toxic relationships continue with

ongoing consequences.

Most of all, I have come to believe that resilience in a relationship is admirable when both people show they can adapt and grow, building on respect and love for one another. If either person, at any point, seems above and beyond such dynamics of a healthy relationship, resilience truly becomes more reflective of co-dependency and “dysfunctionality.” Preventing such results relies heavily on not just love, but also clarity, hard work, support from others and unwavering attention, to respect for oneself and the other person.

Perhaps one of the best moments of the past few months, for me, was attending a dear friend’s wedding in August.

It was a new beginning in so many senses of the words. It took my breath, seeing her so beautiful and in love. She had endured more tragedy than most people should, and it made this love and marriage all the sweeter.

I cried freely, so happy to see her so happy. Her wedding was down-to-earth and reminded me of all the wishes and

dreams that every couple has as they embark on this journey. The deep-breath anticipation of so many well wishes and hopes for her and her groom was palpable. The reception was the party that every couple deserves to celebrate their union and to join the folds of family and friends that are to be there to support hopefully, “this day and evermore.”

In my mind and from experience, I remember — and know — that reality will set in and that there will be bills to pay, drama with work or home or school or just everyday life. But, despite all of these things, I do believe that coupling love and respect can be the compass in a couple’s journey, not just at the start of a new relationship or New Year, but beyond. Packing some hope, strength and joy in the backpack can’t hurt, either.

heather jordan, CNM, MSN Comments or questions?

828.737.7711, ext. 253 landh@localnet.com

Sweets for the Sweet Valentine’s Day comes around every year on February 14 as a celebration of love.

Simple pleasures that come from the heart — and the kitchen — are always appreciated, just as are the flowers, jewelry and cards.

Plan now to whip up (and wrap up) some homemade goodies for those you love and make it a day to remember.

Chocolate Dipped Pretzel Hearts Tiny twist pretzels Red, pink, chocolate and/or white colored candy melts Wax paper Toothpicks Candy sprinkles Melt candy melts in separate bowls for each color over double boiler or in microwave; check every 30 seconds and stir.

Candy will harden quickly if left too long in microwave.

Use toothpick to dip pretzels as desired into melted candy and lay flat on wax paper to set. Add sprinkles before candy dries.

Once they’re solid, you can dip them again (in a different color) for a two-toned affect.

Simple strawberry fudge 16 oz. can of strawberry frosting 12 oz. bag of white chocolate chips Cover a 9 x 9-inch pan lightly with cooking spray. Over a double boiler, or in the microwave, melt white chocolate chips; remove from heat and stir in frosting.

Spread evenly in pan and place in fridge for at least 30 minutes. Cut into squares to serve. Store leftovers in airtight container in fridge.

(Other frostings will work, so feel free to experiment for other colors and occasions.)

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Chocolate Cherry Brownie Dessert 1 box brownie mix (prepared as directed on box, with water, oil and egg)

Note: This recipe is simple and delicious, but a bit time-consuming, so plan ahead. To save time, you can make brownies ahead of time and freeze them still in pan until you are ready to complete the process.

1 cup heavy whipping cream 1 cup miniature marshmallows 1/3 cup chopped maraschino cherries, well drained 1 to 2 Tbs. chocolate ice cream topping Heat oven to 350ยบF. Spray bottom of square pan with cooking spray or a light coating of shortening. Mix brownies and bake as directed on box. Cool completely.

In chilled medium bowl, beat whipping cream with electric mixer on high until stiff. Gently stir in marshmallows and cherries. Spread evenly over brownies.

Drizzle chocolate over top.

Cover and refrigerate until chilled, at least 1 hour. Cut into squares to serve.

Cover and refrigerate any remaining dessert.

Valentine Heart Treats Rice Krispie treats, prepared Red, white and pink icing (not whipped) Red, white and pink sprinkles and small candies Wax paper Prepare Rice Krispie treats and cool in pan. Use heart-shaped cookie cutter to remove treats from pan to wax paper.

Lightly cover hearts with icing of choice and decorate with candies and sprinkles.

Leave on wax paper to dry.

May also use melted white chocolate to drizzle over, or lightly cover, hearts before adding candies and sprinkles.

sherrie norris Editor, All About Women

Photo by Lisa Coombs

‘Nobody has ever measured, even the poets, how much a heart can hold.’

- Zelda Fitzgerald

Photo by Revival Photography

Photo by Mykah Photography

We can accommodate an intimate afternoon gathering or a weekend-long event for several hundred of your closest friends. You and your guests will enjoy luxurious accommodations at our very special mountain hideaway.

336.973.5044 | 512 Meadow Road, Ferguson, NC www.leatherwoodmountains.com