Charm July/August 2014 by news-journal

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HELLo GOOD BUY | ESSENTIAL OILS | BUT FIRST, LET ME TAKE A SELFIE a bimonthly magazine for women of all ages & stages

JULY/AUGUST 2014

mycharmonline.com

purchase with purpose pg. 17

stand by your man pg. 27

fashion americana icon pg. 32

East Texas Goes

Hollywood pg. 22

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charm

Charm Beauty

FEATURES 11 14

Balanced Life: If Moms Hit the Big Screen

JULY AUGUST

20 Bright Summer Color

Lisa Brown: The Good, the Bad and the Kardashians

Americana Icon

Purchase with Purpose

Lovin’ the Skin You’re In

East Texas Goes Hollywood

Stand by Your Man

Ranting, Raving and Ready to Roll

The Essential Oils

HEALTH & FASHION

Charm SCHOOL 8

Hello Good Buy

But First, Let Me Take A Selfie

Charm CHALLENGE 37

4 charm JULY/AUGUST

Urban Decay Naked Flush

BOOK REVIEW 44 Hidden Huguette By Kathy Murphy

SPOT THE We invite you to spot a special Charm logo in this edition. We have not hidden it within an ad, in any of the page headings or on the cover. If you locate it, sign on to mycharmonline.com and click the Spot the Charm link on the homepage, then fill out the contest form and tell us where you think you’ve found it!

editor’s note Dear Readers, Now, I know what you’re thinking. “Is there really a man on the cover of Charm magazine?” Well, yes ma’am, there is. And yes, we meant to do that. Matt Moore is a Hallsville kid all grown up and headed for greatness in Hollywood with his entertainment production company, Mammo Media. The self-made CEO and entrepreneur gave us the inside scoop on how he offsets working in the big city of Los Angeles with the slower pace of life here in East Texas. His story is one you won’t want to miss. Many thanks to Matt for one of the most interesting photo shoots we’ve ever seen! (A tiger?! Really?)

see what’s happening this July & August at

mycharmonline.com From beginner to pro The wonderfully amazing

Molly McWhorter

gives us a start to finish video guide to stylish Hollywood makeup!

Also in this issue, you’ll find tips on how to score cheap travel deals, how to wear the latest eyeliner look and which essential oils will best soothe your senses. Our Fourth of July fashion shows you how to rock the red, white and blue without committing fashion treason. If it’s a feel-good story you’re looking for, check out our “Purchase with Purpose” feature. In it, we spoke with local retailers who are helping to make a real difference in the previously hopeless lives of women in Third World Countries. The coolest things happen each time we produce this magazine. Even though I already know the topics that will be written about, I’m always surprised by the actual stories that reveal themselves. I’ve come to learn that there is a vast difference between a topic and a story, and East Texas is apparently full of fascinating tales just waiting to be told! As always, it has been a true pleasure bringing you this issue of Charm. We hope you enjoy it as much as we did!

STAFF Publication Director April Harlow 903-232-7206 aharlow@news-journal.com Production Manager Katie Case 903-237-7715 katie@mycharmonline Creative Editor Chris Lozano 903-237-7246 chris@mycharmonline Designers Rebecca McCallum Michelle Laverell

Illustrator Vanessa McGraw Contributing Writers Lisa Brown Amy McHaney Rachel Stallard Susie Swasso Tammy Whitehurst Dawn Whittington Photographers Chris Lozano

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Good Buy itehurst

Words by tammy wh

hen it comes to travel, we all think the same thing. “It costs too much. It’s too expensive. We cannot afford it!” We all want to save big bucks on that dream vacation. Look no further. We have packed all the money-saving tips in

Airfasttickets.com and they “claim” to be the cheapest. But, when I’m

one big suitcase for you. Seriously, we’re not just blowing smoke up

looking for flights, I look at other sites as well, such as the big ones;

your suitcase.

Expedia.com, Travelocity.com, Kayak.com and Orbitz.com. Compare

What makes this list so good? For starters, we got our tips from people who really travel. All over the world. It’s time to buckle up, pack it in and get ready to “hit the road Jack” for the vacation that

which ones are cheapest, and then go to the particular airline website and often it’s less expensive. The added fee of these savings sites are not added to the airline

doesn’t blast your wallet or break the bank. If you are looking for a

price on the airline sites.

small group adventure, but don’t want to “rough it,” read on.

The not so expensive hotel stay

Communication while vacationing domestic and abroad

Book early, and compare prices of comparable hotels with a

Don’t worry, be APPY! When outside the US, there is a free app

manager. Join the hotel frequent stay clubs for points that can add

called VIBER that is FREE text messaging. You heard me right. No

up to a free stay. Sign up for newsletter alerts with all the major hotel

cost to you at all. Download it to your phone. It is super-easy and equally

loyalty programs such as Starwood, Hilton, InterContinental Hotels

amazing. People who frequently travel overseas use it all the time.

Group and Hyatt, to name a few. Points on a hotel can be given to

You are going to thank me for this money-saving tip!

up to five rooms, even if it’s different people, if you are all staying on

The best days of the week to travel

the same nights.

Airlines drop fares mid-week. Always book your flight on Tuesday,

Always try and target hotels with free airport shuttles and free

Wednesday, or Thursday. Never book a flight on the weekend. If it’s

breakfasts. Ask the concierge for entertainment and dining discounts.

a domestic flight you’re after, Friday is the best day to depart, while

Priceline is amazing for bidding on hotels and enjoying the benefits

Monday is the best day to return. Flying on Saturday or Sunday in

of staying in a 4 star hotel at a 2 star price. See exactly how to do this

most cases can send airfare shooting sky high. The best deals are

at archive.slickdeals.net/f/1284711-how-to-beat-priceline. I do this

online. If calling the airline directly to book over the phone, they will

every single time I plan a vacation.

often charge a fee to book. It can be steeper than you think. $25.00 in

Travel on Actual Holiday or During Off-Season

many cases. Save the money and do it yourself unless you have several

Try that early morning holiday flight for savings as high as 20 to

legs to your trip.

30% in some cases. Also, be open to redeeming air miles or flying

Become part of the club

during off-season. A ticket does not require as many miles for the

The major airline programs include United, American, Delta, Southwest, among others. I’ve just recently discovered 8 charm JULY/AUGUST

same flight off-season as in-season. Being flexible can save thousands on travel expenses.

Volunteer Your Airline Seat

Travel agents can help you save on a cruise. Agents know all

Volunteering your airline seat on a full flight can lead to big rewards.

the available promotions, and can ask the right questions to see if

Don’t worry, you won’t have to crash on the airport floor. Most airlines

you qualify. Plus, many agencies reserve blocks of cabins on certain

will also provide a hotel stay and a shuttle if it is overnight. They will

sailings at protected “first-release rates” that might be lower than

begin asking people to give up their seats for a $200.00 voucher. Be

what is available to the public. If you find out about such a deal,

patient and it could go up as high as a $500.00 voucher if no one is

jump on the offer; it might not last long. Agents like Master Travel in

willing to go through the inconvenience of getting home later than

Longview don’t charge you fees for booking a cruise. We had a cake

they expected.

waiting in our room from them. It was great!

Sign-Up for the Right Credit Card

LouAnne Hughes of Master Travel on Tyler Street in Longview

Stock up on frequent flier miles. This is the preferred method

tells us, “A good travel agent considers it their job to ensure the trip

of travel hackers. There are plenty of ways to get thousands of miles

you buy meets your desires and expectations. Our expertise and

without ever setting foot on a plane. All US carriers have a branded

input does not cost the traveler since the agency will be paid by the

travel credit card that gives you 25,000-30,000 points when you

suppliers. It is the same price whether booked by the traveler direct

or by an agent. A travel agent has the ability to compare many options

there.) Airline credit cards are the best way to kick- start your mileage balance. I’ve used these cards to collect free flights.

Baggage Fees Credit cards for free baggage and first boarding are a big perk! Book the flight with using your frequent flyer number and your branded credit card, and you can board with the first group and pay no fee for checked in baggage. This saves you $25.00 each way per person. Boarding first means having no problem finding an overhead compartment for carry-on bags. Another way to save on baggage fees and time is to not to pack more than fits in a backpack or carry on bag. We don’t need 7 changes of clothes for a week’s vacation when there are laundromats in most places. That lightens the “baggage fee” load to $0.00. Plus, it eliminates waiting and spending precious time for the luggage to come off the baggage pick up carousel.

Skip Long Lines For $100 for 5 years after your next birthday, you can come back into the US and skip customs. Answer a few questions on a kiosk, and bypass customs without having to wait forever. This a great idea if you are not into “patiently waiting” in line. This also allows you to be TSA pre-checked, so you don’t have to take off your shoes and jackets. The best part is it also exempts you from going through the “naked body scanner.” Anyone can join. Go to www.cbp.gov/travel/trusted-traveler-programs/ global-entry for more details.

Cruisin’ for a Bruisin. There is no need to get battered and beat up

quickly. The agency also has access to discounts, extra inclusions, specials and inside information. It gives the traveler a real person to bounce ideas off of, ask questions, and talk to if a problem arises.” A side note: I used Donna Dixon with this agency when booking a cruise recently. I had always booked myself online. I was shocked that the price was the same as the lowest I found online. Check them out!

AARP Members If you have an AARP card, don’t forget to ask for a discount. Remember, you MUST ASK. Some of the many savings are listed below:

1. Save 10-20% at hotels and for car rentals. Cruise lines will also give you discounts.

2. Dunkin’ Donuts will give you a free donut when you purchase a large beverage.

3. Landry’s Seafood offers a 10% discount. 4. Outback Steakhouse will discount your meal 15% Monday through Thursday.

5. AARP members pay $8 for Regal ePremiere Tickets purchased online (conditions apply). Print tickets at home and use on vacation. Tickets are valid at all Regal Entertainment Group locations nationwide for all movies and showtimes. Go to www.discounts.aarp.org for more discounts. I also encourage you to sign up for weekly at

deals

livingsocial.com,

wonderful groupon.com

places and

travelzoo.com

by cruise prices. When traveling in the off-season,

So, there you go. Several ways to keep your

hundreds of dollars can be saved. Instead of

pocketbook fat and your budget slim. Be a

traveling in the summer, try a cruise from November

little flexible and save a bundle. With money-

through February (excluding the holidays.) A 7-day cruise in June to the Caribbean for $699.00 per person is often $329 per person in the off-season.

saving tips, we can all vacation to faraway places and re-discover the adventurer in all of us. I hope you experience JOY in your journey. mycharmonline.com 9

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charm feature

a balanced life..

If Moms Hit the BIG Screen!

don’t know about you, but there are so many times in my nutty life that I will just start laughing, looking all around me, just knowing that I have got to be on “Candid Camera.” Do ya feel me? A devil fit in Wal-Mart by one of those precious rugrats while you’re standing in self-checkout waiting on the attendant because you “skipped bagging”? Perhaps your 5 year-old daughter decides she’ll call her brother “a boob” walking up to the steps to chruch Sunday morning? Yes, these are the moments I am proud to speak of. The times that you literally feel like your life could make the 6 o’clock news or better yet show up on the big screen. So what if busy moms just like me hit the big screen?

Words by rachel stallard Photos by chris lozano

Mom: Sarah Martin Occupation: Registered Nurse and Owner of The Baby Bum How many kids: “3 fabulous bundles of joy that are not anywhere near the size of a bundle anymore.” Ages: “James – 8, Calvin – 6 and Emma – 2.” Q: If your life could be summed up in a movie title, what would it be? A: “My first blurt out with this question is “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest.” Then, I realized you weren’t asking for my current state of mind. I think I would have to go with “Life As We Know It.”

mycharmonline.com 11

Q: What actress do you think should be cast for your role? A: “I would have to say probably Katherine Heigl. She can play a well put together mother, businesswoman and friend, but can crumble like a Christmas cookie quite fabulously. She’s also able to deliver a bit of sass I am also known to have from time to time. Oh, let’s not forget. She looks great in scrubs!!”

Mom: Courtnie Wyche Occupation: Marketing Director for Gameday Sports Tours How many kids: “3.” Ages: “Mackenzie – 12, Colin – 7 and Lukas – 6.”

Q: Any additional characters you’d like to add? If so, who would play them? A: “My friend and Social Media Guru Tamara would be played by someone that’s a mixture of Kirsten Vangsness from ”Criminal Minds” and Pauley Perrette from “NCIS. They are edgy, smart and witty women that are not only coworkers but friends with the other characters. I would cast Julia Roberts as one of my besties, Amiee, and possibly Zooey Deschanel as my other bestie, Kackie. Zooey is able to deliver such a level of sarcasm that you question whether to laugh, cry or be afraid. Finally, the hubs … he could be played by no other than Mr. Incredible. Yes I know he’s not a “‘real” actor but there are no actors out there right now that can fill the shoes of my husband. Just like Mr. Incredible, he works to save people, manages to be a great dad and still has a keen sense of humor.”

Q: If your life could be summed up in a movie title, what would it be? A: “Chaos.”

Q: What animated characters would be cast for your kids? A: “I would say Young Anna would be the best character for Emma. Their curiosity, animation and singing are very similar. Calvin would be cast as Dash from “The Incredibles.” He would have no physical limitations and be lightning-fast as well as cute and charming. James would be Lewis from “Meet the Robinsons.” James has quite the inventive side, is “’inquisitive, loving and just plain awesome.” Q: Imagine your future. What would the name of your sequel be called? A: “I think I would keep the title ’Life As We Know It Rolling With the Punches’ (yes I just sang that as ‘Rolling With the Homies’ from ‘Clueless’).” We have our faith and the Lord will lead us where we need to be. We take the peaks and valleys as they come. We know this will be our future, embrace the challenge and will roll with it.” Q: Name your theme song to your movie. A: “This one is an easy one. Pearl Jam’s ‘Just Breathe.’ I am reminded by the wonderful chaos of our life that sometimes ya just need to take deep breath. I actually hum this tune during those times.”

12 charm July/august

Q: What actress do you think should be cast for your role? A: “Kate Beckinsale.” Q: Any additional characters you’d like to add? If so, who would play them? A: “Husband: Theo James Megan: Claire Forlani Dionne: Sandra Bullock.” Q: What animated characters would be cast for your kids? A: ”Lukas: Hulk, Colin: Alvin from “Alvin and the Chipmunks,” and Mackenzie: Candace from “Phineas and Ferb.” Q: Imagine your future. What would the name of your sequel be called? A: “The Chaos Continues.” Q: Name your theme song to your movie. A: “Silence would be my theme instead of a song because I NEVER get enough of it!” Mom: Stephanie McKinney Occupation: Real Estate Broker How many kids: “3.” Ages: “Tanner 12, Mallory 9, and Tyson 6.” Q: If your life could be summed up in a movie title, what would it be? A: “My Fabulous Chaos.” Q: What actress do you think should be cast for your role? A: “Sandra Bullock or Debra Barone from ‘Everybody loves Raymond’ because when I see her on that show, I see me!”

Q: Any additional characters you’d like to add? If so, who would play them? A: “My husband would be played by Ryan Gosling. I have a friend, who would be played by Courtney Cox. She listens to my chaos all the time! Then my mom would have to be there because she helps me so much. She would have to be played by Meryl Streep … she’ll kill me for that”

A: “My husband would totally be played by Channing Tatum … in his post-40 era. A group of my friends can basically pass as the whole cast of “Bridesmaids” with a bonus Chelsea Handler as Randee Ray. Stephanie McKinney, one of my fellow busy mom friends that I talk to daily about the aches, pains and triumphs of motherhood, I see as a Sandra Bullock.”

Q: What animated characters would be cast for your kids? A: “Tanner is Mighty Mouse because he’s athletic and that is his nickname in baseball. Mallory would have to be Ariel from ‘The Little Mermaid’ “because she has such a strong independent character, Tyson reminds me of Mowgli from “The Jungle Book,” because he’s such a free spirit who is always on the go and into everything.”

“Busy moms wear so many hats. We take so much on our shoulders.”

Q: Imagine your future. What would the name of your sequel be called? A: “Stop right there, I can’t imagine my sequel right now; I can’t even imagine my next week! But, hopefully it will include my hubby and some camping or lots of tropical vacations!” Q: Name your theme song to your movie: A: “Any song by Kelly Clarkson or Pink … they keep this busy mom going!” Mom: Dawn Whittington Occupation: Social Media Specialist/ Writer/Blogger/Coming Soon: Real Estate Agent How many kids: “3 precious angel faces of love from above (that’s what I say when I get frustrated and lose my patience).” Ages: Logan, 14; Aven, 9; Gentry, 5 going on 15 Q: If your life could be summed up in a movie title, what would it be? A: “RUSH … Here and There and Everywhere” Release Date: TBA … because I’ll be running late!” Q: What actress do you think should be cast for your role? A: “Some days I see a brunette Reese Witherspoon. On better days, I see Kristen Davis. Most days I think I’m Tina Fey … but the joke’s on me!” Q: Any additional characters you’d like to add? If so, who would play them?

Q: What animated characters would be cast for your kids? A: “I pretty much have the Scooby Doo gang: Logan is Fred; Aven is Shaggy with our Maltese, Bella being Scooby; and Gentry is definitely Daphne.” Q: Imagine your future. What would the name of your sequel be called? A: “Because it would probably take at least 10 years to make it happen … ‘Slow Yo’ Roll … An Empty Nester’s Life.’” Q: Name your theme song to your movie. A: ”I pretty much have to have 2: ‘People Like Us’ by Kelly Clarkson because busy working moms literally live in a world of our own. Word. At the End of the Day, after all the craziness goes quiet, ‘Blessed’ by Martina McBride sings words from my heart.” So there it is folks! If these moms could hit the big screen, I have no doubt that their flicks would get some heavy head nodding and a random “Amen!” Busy moms wear so many hats. We take so much on our shoulders. But we wouldn’t have it any other way … it’s what we do. I know that we chose the life of a working mom, and as much as we grunt and groan about the chaotic life we lead, it all comes down to this… When the laundry is folded, and everyone is finally still and quiet, we lay down with a sigh of relief that we made it another day. It’s gratefulness that licks our wounds ... a sense of sheer accomplishment, that only a mother understands which comforts us. We must tell ourselves this: “Thank you Lord for today, and tomorrow will be even better.” mycharmonline.com 13

Mom: Courtnie Wyche Occupation: Marketing Director for Gameday Sports Tours How many kids: “3.” Ages: “Mackenzie – 12, Colin – 7 and Lukas – 6.”

Q: If your life could be summed up in a movie title, what would it be? A: “Chaos.”

12 charm July/august

“Busy moms wear so many hats. We take so much on our shoulders.”

charm feature

think I was born in the wrong decade. I should’ve been born in 1920. That way, by 1940, I could’ve been dating Jimmy Stewart, or dancing at the Tropicana with Fred Astaire. In reality, at the age of 20, I was a non-dancing, perpetually

broke daydreamer, eating corn nuts for dinner every night (blithely

, D O O G THE

D A B E TH AND THE

s n a i h s a d Kar OWN Words by LISA BR RAW CG M A SS NE VA Illustrations by

unaware that because of this by the age of 40 I’d have the back teeth of a British coal miner). I was also living in Hollywood at the time - trying to figure out how to become a cruise director on a “Love Boat”-type ship (all the while trying to conceal the fact that I’d become tremendously seasick filling out the job application in downtown Burbank, which is at least 30 minutes from the ocean). I had this extravagant fantasy about living in a world where everything was glamorous and involved a little less driving around the Dairy Queen and a little more “singin’ in the rain.” Imagine if you will, a young teen-age girl hopelessly in love with Gene Kelly. Now take into account that it’s 1979. I remember becoming infuriated when a fellow classmate innocently asked, “What have I seen her in?” “Her???” I just couldn’t fathom that my contemporaries didn’t feel the same way I did about a man who had starred in his first movie in 1942. I remember showing my (understandably confused) friend a picture I had of Mr. Kelly from the movie “Anchors Aweigh.” She was not impressed. I guess it didn’t help that it was a picture of him wearing a very fanciful sailor suit while dancing next to an animated mouse. But the point was I couldn’t understand (or handle with any semblance of grace) someone not knowing who he was. And my fascination didn’t just center on Mr. Kelly. I also wanted to look like Vivien Leigh, and dance like Eleanor Parker. Instead I looked like Ernie from “Sesame Street” (same body type and hairstyle) and danced like Eleanor Roosevelt (unless of course, Eleanor Roosevelt was a good dancer, and in that case, well, let’s just face it, I probably looked more like Ernie when dancing as well). I was extremely young when I first discovered many of my favorite films and movie stars, and somehow, it managed to make me even stranger than I

“ ... a little less driving

around the Dairy Queen and a little more

‘singin’ in the rain.’”

14 charm JULY/AUGUST

already was. For instance, when I was a highly sophisticated child of seven, I sent Santa Claus the following letter after seeing my first James Cagney movie:

Now see here Santa, I want some toys, see. And yous better make ’em good see,or I’ll get my pal, Eddie Rizzo, to rough up one of your reindeer, see. Love always,

Lisa

When I was 13, I implored my mother to buy me a gold cigarette box like the kind they used in almost every single black and white movie ever made (I was going to keep my Juicy Fruit gum inside it). And for my Sweet Sixteen birthday party, I insisted that everyone come dressed as their favorite character

star was Kim Kardashian. Had it been me asking the question …

from “The Maltese Falcon.” Also, because of my affinity to look

do you remember that famous scene in “Sleeping Beauty” when

as much like Myrna Loy as possible, I plucked my eyebrows so

Maleficent gets angry and turns into a fire-breathing dragon?

completely one summer that for the next two years, I had to draw

The interview would have gone a lot like that. Kim Kardashian?

replacement brows with a black crayon (people tended to think I

Honestly, if all it took for somebody to be a movie star was an

was perpetually angry or highly intrigued after that).

excessively large rear end and a shallow personality, I would’ve

Luckily, my adoration for “real” movie stars hasn’t faded at all since I’ve become “un-old” (this is a new phrase I’m trying to launch by the way). Unfortunately, there seems to be a vast difference of opinion about what constitutes the word “star” these days. Nothing brought this home to me more so than an interview I saw with a 13-year-old girl being asked who teens look up to in our ever-changing world. She actually said that her favorite movie

been an icon by the time I was 21 (and yes, again at 45).

“Ah well, I suppose nothing really makes you feel ‘un-old’

like the realization that you’re actually ‘non-young.’” Ah well, I suppose nothing really makes you feel “un-old” like the realization that you’re actually “non-young.” And there you go. It’s now just a hop, skip and a jump until I only listen to talk radio, watch reruns of “Barnaby Jones” and scare young children who think I’m irritated because I color in my eyebrows with a black Sharpie. I just hope that with my last melodramatic breath, when I utter my final word, “Rosebud” (from the movie “Citizen Kane”), some 19-year-old nursing student doesn’t turn to my poor distraught husband, Hugh Jackman, and whisper loud enough for me to hear, “What’s she talking about?” I might just end up taking her with me. And if you could see my eyebrows right now, you would know that I am completely sincere, see. mycharmonline.com 15

The

List

Julia Barron presents... perfect picks for the Texas palate

The Southern Pie Book oﬀers a delightful romp through everything yummy you can imagine & each nished recipe is beautifully photographed as a full page portrait! Classic pies, tarts, crisps, cobblers, Hand Pies, Slab Pies, Fried Pies and more. My absolute favorites are the Peanut Butter & Jam Pie Bars and the Fresh Strawberry Pie with Pretzel Crust, yum! But then there’s Red Velvet Pie that tastes like the cake only creamier & better! This is one “sweet” page turner! $22.95

(and a gluten free surprise!)

When a seventh-generation Texan, who loves to cook, ends up in New York we get The Homesick Texan’s Family Table. Here are 100 of Lisa Fain’s best & most loved recipes ranging from down-home standards to contemporary riﬀs on the classics. I love the Chipotle Chicken & Dumplings, the Coﬀee-Chipotle Pork Chops (so simple) and her spin on Chicken Spaghetti adding jalepeños, cumin, cilantro and lime juice is amazing. Who knew adding Mexican spices to a German chocolate cake would taste so good? $29.99

Even though I’m a fanatical foodie, I guess I will always be a bookseller at heart. And, even as Barron’s has diversiied & evolved with our customer’s ever changing tastes, I still get a thrill when I turn to a special page and share it - putting that book in someone’s hands. If you like any of these yummy cookbooks, let US put it in your hand.

J The Texas Food Bible is a tour de force on the subject by Texas’ own celebrity Chef DEAN FEARING. Get ready for serious stuﬀ here! This comprehensive guide includes step-by-step methods & techniques for grilling, smoking and braising in the Southwestern manner & is chock full of some of the most amazing and creative recipes I’ve ever read or tried! He shares the secret to the most popular soup at Fearing’s - Corn & Poblano Chowder with Shrimp Hush Puppies. And I am sure HIS Cos’ Chili made with diced lean sirloin will be your favorite chili EVER! But the recipe you may use the most just might be Bacon-Jalepeño Biscuits. I guarantee you’ll love ‘em hot from the oven! $30.00

Thanks!

Perhaps the cookbook closest to my heart is this little home designed single subject cookbook of less than forty pages. Written by Anna Purdum, a young mother living right here in Longview, it has captured my imagination and helped me tremendously as I started my quest to limit GLUTEN in my diet. I bake the gluten free breads, muﬃns & cakes from these recipes every week. From start to nish I MAKE BREAD IN EIGHT MINUTES! Most recipes have only 5 ingredients: eggs, soda, salt, beans & raisins. Use a blender & your microwave. The breads are delicious! I am delighted and amazed. Anna’s nine years of wrestling with her family’s food allergies & intolerances and experimenting relentlessly to develop a bread product that was easy to make & inexpensive have culminated in this book. This is an ingenious no-nonsense concept of using beans of various kinds with very few other ingredients to quickly turn out a delightful variety of baked goods free of gluten, dairy, processed sugars, & ours of any kind! It’s a winner! $12.95

When it needs to be special, you’ll find it at... Loop 281 @ McCann • 903.663.2060 • Mon-Sat 10-6 LIKE US ON FACEBOOK for updates on new arrivals, in-store events and exclusive giveaways! www.facebook.com/barronslongview

charm feature

Purchase with Purpose Words by rachel stallard Photos by chris lozano

you really want to make a difference in the lives of Third World

citizens, you don’t have to make monthly donations or volunteer to travel overseas. You can go shopping. Through the national support of the Fair Trade Federation (and the international support of the World Fair Trade Organization), artisans in the most remote spots on Earth are peddling their wares worldwide. Two East Texas merchants, Barron’s of

Gifts that Give Back - Barron’s “Fair trade has been a big deal for Jim and me, personally, for a long time,” says Julia Barron of her and her husband’s 40plus years as owners of the bookstore/gift boutique/restaurant at 405 W. Loop 281. The fair trade concept takes businesses from developing countries, who lack economic opportunity due to market and customer availability, and ushers them into

Longview and Come Together Trading Company in Tyler, have

the arena of commerce on a global scale. It also acts to protect

openly embraced these small business opportunities from across

their human rights by demanding a fair wage, promoting

the globe — and hope local shoppers will fall in love with these

a safe work environment and ensuring discriminatory-free

people and products too.

business transactions. mycharmonline.com 17

“The products are really a form of folk art, and we’ve been

their art in a retail environment. It was on such a trip that the

personally collecting folk art for 40 years, and have it in our

Barrons “fell totally in love” with Elhadji Koumama of the Tuareg

home,” Julia says. “It represents the indigenous people of

people of Niger.

different countries, who have nothing, and how they can make something beautiful out of nothing.”

The silversmith still practices art the way his ancestors (the Blue Men of the Sahara) have for 25 generations. They melt down

One of Barron’s most treasured lines comes from a woman

old silver, purifying it to its truest form, and then design rings and

who has transformed suffering into a village’s success. The story

bracelets in the sand — exactly the way it was done 300 years ago.

of Rebecca Lolosoli, the matriarch of Umoja Uaso Women’s

Niger is one of the poorest countries in the world, ranking last

Village, began in 1990 when she and 16 women who had been

on the United Nations Human Development Index. Elhadji (who

victims of rape, physical abuse, forced marriages and mutilation

speaks five languages fluently) helped save his family by marketing

joined together for mutual protection. Today, in their women-

their business to Westerners, first with a trip to Nigeria.

only plot of dry, barren and otherwise worthless land in Northern

In addition to these vendors, Barron’s also carries bags from

Kenya, they are thriving and self-sustained — taking in more who

Guatemala, ornaments from Thailand, bracelets from Nepal and

flee abuse every day and helping them prosper by selling their

Eangee lamps.

handmade beaded baskets and jewelry, both to local tourists and

“It is so important for us to give the customer in Longview

through overseas markets. Because of this endeavor, the group

and the regional people who shop with us this information — just

has established a sickness and disability fund, a community center

to get the word out that this is a good thing,” Julia says. “I’m an

and a school for their children and those in the surrounding area.

entrepreneur. I love the thrill of the next thing, the new thing,

In return for Lolosoli’s commitment to this cause, she’s had two

the different thing, the wonderful thing … I love the idea of

assassination attempts on her life, and there’s a bounty on her head.

what this does because it really does empower people who may have had no hope. First of all, it shows them that, beyond the realm of their village, there are other people in the world who recognize the value of what they do, the beauty of what they do. And they give them something back for that talent and that vision, and that beauty helps sustain them, to educate their children, to have water in their village, to lead a better life. And this is SO American. It’s a neat thing I can pay money for and help people at the same time. We’re wonderful consumers in this country, and we’re very fortunate to have the wherewithal to consume. Why not be a little bit smarter and a little bit charitable in that consumption?”

A Matter of Trust - Come Together Terry and Tammy Marshall had no idea that attending a Christian concert at the Oil Palace in Tyler would change their lives. In short, “When you meet someone like that, personally, and hear

seeing Jeremy Camp perform led them to sponsor a child through

her story, it’s just fantastic,” Julia says. “And they sit and do

Compassion International, visit the slums of Kibera in Nairobi,

such intimate beadwork for a basket that sells for $19. Would I

Kenya (the largest slum in Africa, with an estimated population of

do that?”

1 million people), sell their RV business and start a coffee shop/

A major player in bringing native art to the States is the Santa

gift store in Canton. The couple has since relocated the shop to

Fe International Folk Art Market held each year in New Mexico.

the Bergfeld Shopping Center on Eighth Street in Tyler, and now

Of importance to retailers is the stopover at Dallas’ World Trade

represent vendors from more than 40 countries in their store.

Center the week before the show. It introduces the artisans and

Come Together is one of nine stores in Texas with a Fair Trade

18 charm JULY/AUGust

“We were equals, Doing business together. We love what you do, and we’re buying it from you.” something that doesn’t pass the test.”

Federation distinction.

Seeing the poor for themselves is

“We became a member of the Federation

what originally opened the couple’s

in 2013 because we wanted to do our part

eyes. But from the beginning, they

in helping spread the word about fair

have approached their store

trade,” Terry says. “The other part of that is if you are not FULLY

as a business venture. Terry

committed to fair trade, then

recalls the first trip to Kenya

you can’t become a member.”

to meet the child they

He says the screening process

had

is intense. A committee looks

Compassion International.

adopted

through

at every item you sell, with only

“At every church, they

15 percent of total sales being

knew visitors were coming

allowed to not be certified.

from

So,

they

would greet us with singing

And those still have to be in line

and dancing and treat us like

with the heart and intention of

we were some kind of kings. The

fair trade.

women would have tables set up,

FTF members are required to

and all the stuff spread out that they

commit to the following 9 principles in all

had made — baskets, beads, sarongs, and we

of their transactions: Create Opportunities for Economically and Socially Marginalized Producers;

America.

would just buy it. At the time we were thinking this

Develop Transparent and Accountable Relationships; Build

would be so fun to give as gifts and take back home. We bought

Capacity; Promote Fair Trade; Pay Promptly and Fairly; Support

them out, every church we went to,” he says. “We were leaving

Safe and Empowering Working Conditions; Ensure the Rights

this one church in a very rural area, and the driver turned to us

of Children; Cultivate Environmental Stewardship; and Respect

and said, ‘You know you literally just provided them with three

Cultural Identity.

months of income. They don’t have customers. You don’t realize

“These principles are important because we know what a

what a big blessing that was.”

company has gone through to qualify to do business under this

“This took us a while to process, but what we liked about that

name,” Terry says. “If we can’t go personally meet the artisans

is that we were just buying something from (the women). We

who make the products, then how can we trust them to be doing

were equals, doing business together. We love what you do, and

things the right way? But if the people are members of the the

we’re buying it from you. We’re getting something in return. That

Fair Trade organization, then we can immediately trust them

hit home with us, and we felt we had to do something to help

because we know they’ve been through all the hoops that we’ve

these people.”

been through.”

Returning home to Canton, the couple formed Come Together,

He admits there are three businesses in his own shop that are

realizing, “we were raising awareness among people here too.”

not members of the FTF. This doesn’t mean they’re not worthy;

They still keep a booth at Canton Trade Days, along Row 46,

but additional research was required before they were considered

“because we can get in front of so many more people. We feel like

as merchants. Fortunately, the Marshalls have personally visited

part of our job is to educate and inspire people.”

two of the companies in Uganda: Ssekos Sandals and God is Able

“Fair trade really supports all things,” Terry says. “If people

Jewelry. Lily and Laura bracelets, made by women in Nepal and

don’t have a job, then they’re not going to be able to eat, send

India, had to pass the 9-point checklist to be sold in the store,

their kids to school or have a roof over their heads. It’s just like us.

Terry says. “You just can’t be a member of Fair Trade and sell

The answer to poverty is jobs, and this creates jobs.” mycharmonline.com 19

charm beauty

BRIGHT summer color EYE POPPING Easy Summer Color

FOR YOUR EYES!

Words by AMY MCHANEY

ummer is in full swing – and with summer comes plenty

1. Laura uses the Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eye Color ($26,

of opportunity for poolside fun and trips to our gorgeous

department stores) – I like this one, too. It’s a thicker stick than a

East Texas lakes.

traditional pencil and can be used to draw a thin line or as all over

Heat and humidity take a toll on my regular makeup routine. In other words, my regular makeup routine goes out the

color. It’s not too bold. New summer colors include Mint Snow – an icy shade of blue-green – and Orchid. Gorgeous.

window completely. My research for this article – and for my

2. A sales associate at Ulta long ago recommended NYX Slide

own “summer look” – led me to my sister-in-law’s sister-in-law

On Eye Pencils ($7.99, Ulta) to me. It’s a gel formula in pencil

(a mouthful, right?), Sabrina.

form, so it’s easy to control. And it comes in some delicious

Sabrina is a professional makeup artist (www.sabrinahull.com) in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. We spent some time discussing a

summer hues including a beautiful turquoise called Azure, Purple Blaze and Sunrise Blue.

trend we’d both seen in fashion magazines – lots of bold, bright

3. Kristie is a fan of Stila products and particularly likes the

eye color. We agreed that it’s one thing to sport a full-on, neon-

Stila Smudge Stick Waterproof Eye Liner ($20, Sephora in

hued lid on the catwalk, but quite another to translate that into

JCPenney and Ulta). This smooth liner comes in a whopping 30

everyday life in Texas!

different shades. Bright summer shades include Turquoise and

“The trick is to keep it clean and avoid looking like a smoky

Violet. And a bright yellow called Canary!

colored eye – more like a clean eye with a little pop of color,” Sabrina says. She recommends using a sheer, neutral shadow with the focus on a brightly colored liner – she says that the majority of her clients are requesting shades of turquoise and lavender. Armed with those tips, I set out to find the perfect summer eyeliner ... As usual, I surveyed my gal pals and my own makeup drawer to identify favorite eyeliners to acquire in bold summer colors: 20 charm JULY/AUGUST

Sabrina Says... Not comfortable with eyeliner? No problem! Many of Sabrina’s clients are requesting natural-looking makeup with a bold lip. The most requested shade? A bold pop of PEACH! Want to try the look without making a major investment? Try NYX Round Lip Stick in Peach Bellini ($4, Ulta).

Bac.JceAssXorXies

tipsand tricks

Boutique Style Apparel at Great Prices!

I’m a product junkie – I’ve sat for countless sessions in a chair at my favorite cosmetics counters. I love learning about the latest and greatest makeup offerings and picking up tips along the way. Here are few of the best tips I’ve learned related to eyeliners:

Use white eyeliner to line the inside of your bottom lid. This makes your eyes look awake and refreshed. I personally use NYX Slide on Eye Pencil in Pure White ($7.99, Ulta).

Lining on your top lid should be generally heavier than on your bottom lid to achieve the goal of making your eyes look larger.

Using even strokes when lining your eyes is key, and this takes practice. Pencil liners are easier to control than liquids or gels applied with a brush.

Prepping your lid is important – I use Laura Mercier Eye Basics Primer in Wheat ($25, department stores), which matches my lid color; I often wear the primer alone, but when I do add shadow or liner, the color lasts longer.

Large Selection of Luggage

Great Prices on Corky Flip Flops

mycharmonline.com 21

charm feature

East Texas goes 22 charm JULY/AUGUST

Hollywood Words by dawn whittington Photos by chris lozano

CEO/Entrepreneur junkie - by way of the West Coast - and currently settled among the peaceful comforts of home in East Texas is Matt Moore, founder and CEO of Mammo Media. He took some time out of his ever-so busy schedule, invited me into his home so I could dig a little deeper and find out more about him, his company and inspiration. mycharmonline.com 23

As a first time guest to this beautiful house, located in one

we offer so many other services that feed into the entertainment

of the oldest and prestigious neighborhoods in Longview, I’m

industry. We have a management team that is focused on talent

simply awe-stricken. Each room - themed by design or color -

for producers, directors, writers, and actors. The name actually

flows into a universal feel of rocker chic. We sat in an overall

came from my grandmother. Her name is Ann Reel, but I called

modernly decorated room as a touch of Matt’s East Texas roots

her “Mammo.”

peeks from behind the eyes of his hot pink deer head hanging over the fireplace.

you to name your company after her.

CHARM MAGAZINE: So give me a little background on you

personally …

MM: She was the most influential person in my life. I gave my company a name that means a lot because of her. I want to always

MATT MOORE: I was born and raised in Longview. I’m actually a 4th-generation Hallsville graduate.

CM: Your grandmother must have been very special to you for

I graduated in

1994. Two weeks after I graduated, I went into the Navy and was actually stationed in San Diego.

be sure that I represent it well. CM: What are some of your current projects through Mammo Media? MM: We negotiated a book deal last month for a book titled

CM: The Navy? Wow. Why the Navy? And how do you feel that experience contributed to what you’re doing today?

“Cain’s Dagger.” We are scheduled to begin our first theatrical release at the end of the year. A screenplay is in the works which

MM: I’ve always been drawn to a sense of “duty” and felt my

will be inspired by real people and events in Longview. Among

calling was to “protect and defend.” Because I initially wanted

other written and production developments, Mammo Media is

to be in politics, I felt that serving my country would not only

currently managing 8-9 writers and 6 actors.

be able to fulfill this longing to protect and defend, but would also be a wise choice for my career. Being in the Navy was great. I was able to travel the world. It more taught me what I didn’t

CM: So Mammo Media is in California, but you have a house here. How is the commute? MM: I work in California and love it there. I can do a lot of

want to do rather than what I did want to, long-

work remotely from here, but I do travel back and forth every few

term. In fact, when I returned to Texas, instead

months. It’s important for me to have downtime, and coming back

of pursuing a career in politics, I began applying

to Longview allows me to do so. I travel to L.A. when I need to. It’s

for management positions.

a nice mixture. In Hollywood, I’m able to surround myself with

CM: Business management is a broad career

creative people, and that’s important

choice. Do you think that this decision opened

for what I do. But East Texas will

the door to entrepreneurship opportunities? MM: Definitely. To name a few of my business ventures: By the age of 23, I was the VP of a company. I excelled quickly. I began a hardware company called Luxe Hardware. We specialize in decorative hardware for cabinets and

“In Hollywood, I’m able to surround

myself with creative people, and that’s important for what I do. But East Texas will always be home to me.”

sell wholesale to multiple companies. I

CM:

You

seem

very

passionate about what you do. Does your passion drive you in this industry? MM:

Yes.

This

really

doesn’t feel like “work.” I love it. Music is my true passion. I would like to expand by adding

also started an independent clothing line called St. Somewhere, but ended up selling the rights to that

always be home to me.

a music division at some point. I like being surrounded by music … it inspires.

company in 2012. In 2010, I founded Mammo Media located in

CM: So when you aren’t wearing one of your

Los Angeles. Most recently I started Royalty Hats, a high-end hat

many work hats, how do you like to spend your free

company that is scheduled to launch in the summer of 2015.

time?

CM: Currently, your main focus is on your production

MM: I have 3 kids that live here and go to

company, Mammo Media. Tell me about it, and where did you

school in Hallsville. I enjoy spending time with family and friends.

get the name?

Above all, I love spending time with Lisa, my girlfriend. She’s my

MM: Mammo Media is a full-service production company. We are different than your average production company because 24 charm JULY/AUGUST

favorite. My time with her is never enough. CM: What words of wisdom would you give to East Texans

interested in the entertainment industry? MM: Don’t be afraid to be creative. You have to be bold to label yourself as a creative type, especially in the arts. If you believe in it, pursue it, and go for it! CM: Do you have helpful tips or suggestions for those in this area that have ideas for a book or screenplay? MM: Absolutely. If you have an idea, I highly suggest “putting it on paper.” Enter online contests for books and screenplays. Submit it to the Writers Guild in proper format.

COOL FACTS ABOUT MATT: ✽✽ He owns a chair that belonged to CeeLo Green ✽✽ In 2009, Matt was faced with a lawsuit from Jimmy Buffet for “Intellectual Property Infringement” from the phrase “St. Somewhere”… the name of his clothing line.

✽✽ Matt sold his company 3 years later to a firm owned by Margaritaville, which is owned by??? You got it … Jimmy Buffet.

✽✽ The synopsis for “The Reaper,” a comic book series, was born from a creative conversation about allergies between Matt and his then-12-year-old-son, Austin.

✽✽ Matt and his girlfriend, Lisa Stiles, began a charity, named DOT (Defenders of the Timid). It is named after Lisa’s grandmother and helps children and the elderly who are in situations that are detrimental to them.

✽✽ Jay Sheller, one of Mammo Media’s writers, described Matt this way, “He has the ability to look at the creative and business standpoint, which is rare.”

✽✽ The idea for Royalty Hats came about when Matt was not able to get into a nice nightclub in Dallas. Despite his fancy attire, he was wearing a cap … and so the wheels started turning.

✽✽ Royalty Hats will only be made from the most luxurious fabrics. Names for the styles are inspired from kings and queens from the past. Average cost will be between $1,200-1,500.

✽✽ Words to live by according to Matt Moore: “Do what’s right. Do what’s fair.”

“Do what’s right. Do what’s fair.” mycharmonline.com 25

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charm feature

STAND by your

MAN

“Behind every good man is a great woman” is more than a cliché from the 1970s ... Words by RACHEL STALLARD & DAWN WHITTINGTON Photos by CHRIS LOZANO

mycharmonline.com 27

It’s a fact of life for three East Texas women who alternate between having their feet planted in the reality of everyday life, and then just as quickly find themselves being whisked into the world of celebrity, thanks to the commercial success of their husbands. Charm Magazine recently visited with Heather Nichols, Sherri

in the same English class, and I sat right behind him. Because

Womack and Natalie Gunn Threlkeld. They are the down-to-

he’s a foot taller than me, I was constantly swaying back and forth

earth wives of, respectively: Joe Nichols, country music star; John

trying to read the board. He turned around and asked if I wanted

Soules Jr., co-CEO of the most successful fajita meat company in

to switch seats. I couldn’t muster up the words, “No, thank you,”

the U.S.; and Mark Threlkeld, first baseman for the Kansas City

so I just shook my head. A few weeks went by of hanging out

Royals‘ AA team, the Northwest Arkansas Naturals.

and visiting me at work before we started dating. He told me his

Cm: How did you meet your husband? What were your circumstances starting out?

HN: We met at The Reo Palm Isle (in Longview), which my dad owned back in 1996. He was a singer hired by my father.

dream of being a professional baseball player — and I believed he could be — but I knew the statistics. When the draft came in June (2011), and Mark’s name was called, I was beyond thrilled for him.

Joe was a struggling musician and had started a band. We love

Cm: What have been some of the challenges to his/your family’s

thinking about when we first met. He remembers exactly what

success? What have been some of the triumphs, or rewards, of his

I was wearing, which I’m sure was a very scary 1990s get-up. I

being successful?

remember he had hair down to his lower back. His vocal talents

HN: I think the thing I love the most about his job is the people

were obvious, and I knew he would go very far in the music world.

we are privileged to meet along the way. Joe’s fans are wonderful

He had — and still has — that something special when he sings.

and always amazingly supportive. They have followed us through

(I still cry) I first heard him on the radio as I was driving Hwy.

ups and downs in his career and our many miscarriages along the

31 and felt, “this is the beginning.” That song climbed to #1, and

way. Their letters, posts and personal comments have touched us

others followed.

deeply.

SW: I met John in 1998. But it was 9 years later, in 2007, that we

The challenges are obviously his touring schedule. In the early

met again and started dating. I was working as an account manager

part of our marriage, I traveled with Joe to every show on our bus.

for a local staffing agency and had been trying for three years to

When we had our first daughter, Dylan, we traveled less on the

bring his company on as one of our clients. He finally agreed to

tour bus. Now with two children (Georgia Blue was born May 20),

have lunch with me. We talked about business a little, but by the

we are trying to figure out our groove again. Having two at home

end of that lunch we both knew that there was something more

is hard enough; but having two on the road in a different city each

there. I think I won John’s heart (and his business) at that lunch!

night is a fun adventure!

NT: I met Mark in 2010 at Louisiana Tech University. We were

SW: John travels a lot for work, and that can be difficult for

“I think the thing I love the most about his job is the people we are privileged to meet along the way. Joe’s fans are wonderful and always amazingly supportive.” 28 charm JULY/AUGUST

- Heather Nichols

“We are so blessed that we are able to give our girls a beautiful, happy life filled with love. When John is home, we are his focus, and he is such a hands-on-daddy!” - Sherri Womack me and the girls to miss out on that time with him. But we know

your other family members?

that he puts in that time not only to create a successful business,

HN: I would say my family is just a group of characters. They

but to provide for his family, and the time that we have together

think they are famous in their own right already! Joe is treated just

is definitely quality time. We are so blessed that we are able to

like anybody else.

give our girls a beautiful, happy life filled with love. When John

SW: Our nieces and nephews are nothing but adorable. They

is home, we are his focus, and he is such a hands-on-daddy!

love the fact that they can go to any grocery store and find JOHN

With two little girls, that sometimes means letting them put

SOULES FOODS products on the shelf and say, “I KNOW

princess crowns and bows on him, but he does it with a smile on

HIM!” It’s really cute. I have been with them in the check-out

his face because it makes them smile.

line at Tom Thumb in Frisco, and they are screaming, “That’s my

NT: The most challenging thing we faced was the distance.

Uncle John!” The family loves it.

While I was still in college (I transferred to University of North

NT: My family already treats him as if he was their own. Whether

Texas in 2011), he lived with his parents in Louisiana. We were

he becomes famous or not, that will never change. They’re all very

five hours apart, only seeing each other every other weekend.

proud of him, regardless of the outcome.

After getting drafted, we didn’t see each other but two or three times during the season (February to September). This year is the first year I’ve been able to see him every weekend during the season because he’s only five hours away in Springdale, Ark.

Cm: What surprises you the most about being married to someone so well-known?

HN: It still makes me laugh a little when I see people freak out when they meet him. I forget he is famous.

(Natalie teaches 7th grade English at Kilgore ISD). One of the

SW: The thing that surprises me most is that John doesn’t

biggest rewards he’s gotten was being selected as the designated

fit the stereotypical CEO profile in some ways. He is a brilliant

hitter on the All-Star team for the Burlington Royals last season.

businessman, but he’s approachable and so down- to-earth. His

Cm: How has your being married to someone famous affected

company isn’t filled with employees — it’s more like a family. He

mycharmonline.com 29

works hard, but doesn’t bring work home with him. Our girls don’t

play left-handed, so we plan on doing that together this summer

know he is a CEO, because at home he’s just a daddy.

on his off-days. We love card games and any kind of board game.

NT: Mark hasn’t reached a level of fame, yet, that random

He loves hiking, so he’s starting to get me into that as well. We also

people know him. But when people find out that he’s a Minor

love antique shopping and going to museums because we love the

League player in double A, they get a lot friendlier!

history behind different items.

Cm: What do you enjoy doing during “downtime”? HN: When Joe is off-tour we love doing normal things. Having

Cm: How do you, as a wife, keep your husband grounded? HN: I have to give a lot of credit to him. Joe is a humble person

coffee in the morning and sharing the day relaxing at home. Being

and has never taken himself too seriously. Knowing someone

at home is like a vacation for us. Cooking and going to the grocery

since you were 18 helps too. Before the fame, we were friends and

store are fun when you don’t get to do it a lot.

that has been a blessing. Our success as a family is God’s doing.

SW: We love to entertain, especially during the summertime

It’s nothing we could ever take credit for.

by the pool. I come from a large, loving family that is spread out

One of the reasons we love East Texas is because we can be

over Houston, Dallas, Austin and East Texas. We love opening

normal people here. Joe is just another face at the gym, grocery

our home up on the weekends for everyone to come and stay. But

store and BBQ joint. We are no different from any other family.

Sunday afternoons are reserved for our family, which is usually

We have ups and downs and triumphs and failures. My husband

spent curled up with our girls, Mary-Payton, 4, and Laila, 3, while

just happens to have an unusually good voice in the shower!

they sing along to “Frozen” or “The Little Mermaid.” John and

SW: John is naturally a very grounded man, so I do not have

I also like to get away to Dallas for a date night, or on a weekend

to do much. It’s important to me to support him, and one way I

getaway when we can.

do that is by managing everything at home during the week. That

“stand by your man, and show the world you love him. Keep giving all the love you can.” -Tammy Wynette NT: We love watching movies; he’s a movie freak. I love playing golf (I played in high school), and he just recently learned how to

way, when he is here we are free to just enjoy our time together, instead of worrying about the little things like a leaky faucet or running errands. We eat family dinners together and take the girls to church. It’s those simple things that make our lives so full and happy.

NT: Mark is the most humble man I know. We are a Godfearing household, and we both know that the Lord is the reason he is where he is in his career. I don’t feel that he ever gets to the point where I have to keep him grounded.

“Mark is the most humble man I know. We are a God-fearing household, and we both know that the Lord is the reason he is where he is in his career. I don’t feel that he ever gets to the point where I have to keep him grounded.” - Natalie Threlkeld 30 charm JULY/AUGUST

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AMERICANA

charm fashion

32 charm JULY/AUGUST

Cause some fireworks this Fourth of July with these trendy takes on the red, white and blue. Whether you are going to a BBQ or watching the fireworks show, Charm has the right outfit for you to feel patriotic pretty! Photos by chris lozano

1. Red & White Shirt: by Renvar, $79; Red Pants: by Renvar, $89; Blue Scarf: by TIO, $22.50; Glasses: by Royal Standard, $15. 2. Blue Shirt: by Escapada, $79; Blue Jeans: by Mesmerize, $103. 3. Red Pancho: by Top It Off, $40; Anchor Scarf: by TIO, $22.5; White Jeans: by Crazy Larry, $115. 4. Dress: by Voom, $90; Earrings: by Statement, $24 All from Morgan Abbigail mycharmonline.com 33

5. Blue Dress: by Jade, $104; Bag: by Red Ostich, $65. 6. Navy Hat: $22. All from Morgan Abbigail 34 charm july/august

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’

Lovin

the Skin you're in Words by RACHEL STALLARD

kin has a tough gig. Besides its normal job of regulating body temperature, protecting bones and muscles, and communicating with our nervous system, we also expect it to look good doing it. If you’re happy with the skin you’re in, then you need to protect it. But if problem areas have you itching to keep your clothes on, there’s help for that too. Dr. Donna Vu, Longview’s only female dermatologist and a Longview native, expands on why it’s important to take care of your body’s largest organ (all 3,000 square inches of it.) With a little help from her practice at Wallis Dermatology, we also touch on a few other skin issues that are worth soothing. The worst thing you can do to your tender epidermis is burn it. There’s nothing like a bad sunburn to snuff out the memories of an otherwise pleasant day. One of the best things you can do to fight back against sunburn and premature aging, and even skin cancer, is to use sunscreen. “Everyone always asks me what is the best cream they can use? I say sunscreen. And studies have shown it reduces aging by almost 25 percent. I see many patients who regret that they tanned when they were younger,” Dr. Vu says. Avoiding the sun altogether, especially between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., is her standard advice. However, if you are out at any time the sun is shining (even on a cloudy day), she suggests wearing a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more, and reapply every two hours. Her personal fave? Elta MD sunscreen — a fragrance-free, sensitivity-free and noncomedogenic sunblock available for a variety of skin types. It is available through dermatologists’ offices, as well as online. Other skin concerns that may merit a trip to the doctor are as follows. 36 charm JULY/AUGUST

 APPARENTLY ANNOYING Fine lines and wrinkles One of the most complained-about skin conditions today, they are a natural part of the aging process. However, many advances have been made in recent years to minimize the look of wrinkles, from injections to dermal fillers to microdermabrasion.

Stretch marks Also known as striae, these are typically caused when growth or weight gain causes skin to stretch beyond its normal limit of elasticity. They do not pose a health risk, but are a common cosmetic worry, and can be treated with laser treatments and dermabrasion.

 IRRITATINGLY ITCHY Eczema Also called dermatitis; it is a group of skin conditions that can affect you at any age. It is not contagious, but can be uncomfortable because it makes the skin hot and itchy, and in severe cases, can cause bleeding. Common causes are: irritation, allergic reaction and heredity. While there is no cure, many people grow out of it, and medication can reduce flare-ups. Psoriasis A chronic disorder that creates itchy, red marks on the body. These areas form multilayered “scales” that vary in severity. Psoriasis can occur at any age in both males and females. It is not contagious, nor is it life-threatening. It usually affects the same areas repeatedly (such as elbows, arms, knees and legs). Steroids, oils, sprays, medications, vitamins, light therapy and other treatments are available.

 DECIDEDLY DANGEROUS The Sun There is actually no one single factor more responsible for cosmetic and medical skin conditions than sun exposure. Repeated overexposure to the sun without proper protection can lead to a wide variety of conditions, including uneven pigmentation, age spots, sagging skin and vertical wrinkles, reddish-brown pigmentation on the neck or cheeks, and skin cancer. Vu recommends you visit a dermatologist “if you see any spots changing, growing, itching, bleeding or are new.”

charm challenge

Fresh Face Glow

URBAN DECAY Naked Flushed

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Their Claim to Fame:

Go ahead...get Naked and FLUSHED with our silky bronzer, highlighter and blush. These shades diffuse light as they enhance and perfect, giving your skin a fresh, glowy look—even when your late-night antics have you feeling otherwise. Our micronized, jet-milled formula has a luxe, featherlight texture that feels amazing on your skin. The shades are intensely pigmented, yet they blend beautifully. And the finish? Flawless.

Our Verdict:

we loved it! This seems like it would cater to loads of skin tones. All of the powders are super fine and have some serious staying powder. They go on like a dream!

Where to Find It: ulta $30

I’ve enjoyed using this product! The blush is a pretty color, the bronzer gives you a natural glow (as long as you don’t use too much), and the highlighter gives you a fresh look! I would recommend watching a YouTube tutorial on all the different ways you can apply it before you start using it!

Rebecca McCallum

I absolutely loved this product! It definitely gives a noticeable dimension to your skin and accentuates your features while giving you that flawless look. I know contouring can seem intimidating or that it would take way too much time but this palette made it super easy and quick.

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mycharmonline.com 37

charm school

but first,

LET ME TAKE A

SELFIE Words by SUSIE SWASSO

#selfie

/selfie/, noun, informal sharing your life with family and friends

lick…ugh!...delete.

Click…Ugh!...Delete.

CLICK…

UGH!...DELETE!!! The definition of “insanity” according to the handbook

facial “details.” It’s horrible and looks nothing like me.Yet there it remains, simply because the million other selfie attempts have been utter failures!

of humanity is to repeat something over and over again and expect

How many of you beautiful people out there are with me? I

a different result. That’s it! I always knew I was a little off my

know I’m not the only one. Remember, I can get on Facebook

rocker. My brothers always said so, but now I have confirmation!

too! And trust me, I’ve seen all the most common mistakes - from

“Hello. My name is Susie, and I am “self-ie challenged.”

looking like a mallard to the “Oh – did-someone-else-just-take-a-

There, I said it! Now the whole world knows that I could not

picture-of-me-that-I’m-going-to-pretend-I-didn’t” pose. Oh, the

take a good selfie even if my life depended on it. As if they didn’t

things we do to try to make ourselves look good! Life was so much

already know! Pathetically, I’ve had one selfie on my Facebook

easier 20 years ago - back when people had to “imagine” what you

profile for a couple of years now (before that, it was one picture of

looked like as you wrote their letter. (Yes, many, many, years ago

my kids). And that, my friends, was a selfie I took of myself after

people actually had to pick up a writing utensil and paper; write

only two hours of sleep and in very low lighting … to hide all my

their correspondence by hand; and then drop it off at the post

38 charm JULY/AUGUST

office – which made it necessary for the recipient to have to wait

diffuse the light, or even use a single light source. Both of these

a few days to receive it. Very antiquated stuff. We’ll save that for

could be more flattering to your complexion and smooth out those

another story).

pesky facial lines.

Well my fellow selfie-challenged friends – there is hope! After some research I have found quite a few tips to help perfect your selfie taking techniques. First off, you should know that what appear to be selfies in magazines are not selfies at all. Do not be fooled! Those perfectly pictured people are not taking their own picture! They have received some help from Photoshop … or simply posed to look like a selfie when, in reality, a very professional and very expensive photographer is the picture-taking culprit. That should take a lot of pressure off right there! You’re welcome! Don’t you feel better

The Pose Now that you have your lighting in order, let’s consider the pose. Dun, dun, dun, dun … scary music cued. I shudder to think of how many times I’ve broken these rules! Repeat after me: No Duck Lips! Talk about the passionate pucker gone bad! I know we all think we look like supermodels when we pucker up for a kiss, but I’m telling you right now … we don’t! My husband once told me that I looked like a starfish sucking for dear life onto a reef to avoid being swept out to sea whenever I puckered up to kiss him.

already? The second thing you should know is that there are two things that can either make or break your selfie - the setting and the pose.

The Setting There are some definite “no-nos” to consider when setting up the scene for your “perfect” selfie. For instance, no one really wants to see your bathroom - especially if it’s not clean. Handprints or unidentifiable smudges on the mirror, dirty towels or clothes wadded up in the corner, soap scum and open toilets are all bad things to have in your selfie “setting.” This goes for any room you should choose to take the picture in. An old pizza box on a table next to various empty bottles of beer and a passedout guest halfway lying on the couch are not ideal backdrops either. Let’s clean up the surroundings before we strike a pose,

“...there are two

things that can either make or break your selfie

- the setting and the pose.”

hm? Also consider that some events are not appropriate for selfies - such as funerals. The fact that a funeral is an inappropriate place for a selfie and even has to be mentioned is alarming to say the least. But, alas, this infraction has occurred. I’m afraid I’ve seen this one on Facebook – with the corpse in the background! Horror! Really? Consider staging your picture outside in nature. Natural light is more flattering and is - well – natural. Fluorescent lights can affect all the colors in the photo - and not always in a good way. Standing in front of a forest, or a beautiful floral garden, or on a beach can act as the perfect backdrop for any well-taken selfie. If you have to take one indoors, remember to look for a good light source. No matter where you take it, you want that light source to be in front of you. Eliminate any shadows that could be falling across your face. Shadows are any self-respecting selfie’s worst nightmare. If you have the time and energy (and I’m sure in our quest for a selfie, we can truly be proud to post on our social media that we’ve got the time!), you could use a thin curtain to

mycharmonline.com 39

“ so give them the real you!” Nice. He’s so honest. Now I don’t pucker when I kiss him until

you are … then, focus in close on your face. But please, be sure

we are too close for him to actually see my lips clearly. I know we

that we do not end up seeing your pores or any unwanted facial

all want everyone to think we are hip, cool, sexy or seductive, but

hairs that you may have missed. In this instance – ZOOM OUT!!!

let me share some insight with you: These poses will backfire on

Many people seem to prefer tilting their face to the side a little to

you more frequently than my grampa’s ol’ jalopy! The best way

avoid the dreaded double chin. And apparently, for many of us,

to pose is simply to be – wait for it – natural! Yes, your natural

our left side looks better than our right. Well that’s not fair! I only

look is a good look. The forced smile, or pretend pucker … they

get to use half my face!

just don’t look like you. Unless they do. Then, in that case, go for

Play with different types of smiles. Oh, now you’re feeling silly?

it! Also, don’t try to act like you are not actually taking a selfie.

Hello! You are taking a picture, or 20, of yourself with your cell

We all know you are! The unnatural posture will give you away

phone! You should feel silly. Just go with the flow and have fun.

every time. And, friends, don’t try to make it look like a random

Sometimes, the picture might call for you to show off your pearly

shot. We all know that you actually spent quite some time thinking

whites, or maybe you want to go coy with a closed-mouth-barely-

and setting up those particular shots. In other words, the harder

smiling smile. Then again, a wide open-mouth laughing smile

you try to make it look like it’s not a selfie, the worse it gets.

might be in order … if you can pull it off naturally, of course.

Just be – natural! If you look good when you roll out of bed (ok, well maybe not so much) then take a selfie! If you’re like most of

Your smile is what people remember about you. So give them the real you!

us, you may want to fix your hair, put on a little makeup and put

Hang on everyone! I have discovered that great secret in

on something flattering. Hint: Lots and lots of makeup is a no-no!

life! The real key to taking the “perfect” selfie really lies in …

If you don’t wear a lot of makeup normally, it won’t make you look

drum roll…honesty! You can plan, but don’t try to be something

any better in your selfie, but rather make you look like you have

unnatural or unlike yourself. Many of the cell phones out there

taken on a new career as a lady of the night! Instead of trying

have apps or filters for editing. Using a filter to take a black and

to hide under layers of cosmetics, focus on your favorite feature.

white picture can be very flattering. And using some editing tools

For instance, if your lips are the favorite part of your face, then

can help to remove an unwanted blemish, or two. But beware not

go natural with the eyes and complexion and wear a really great

to overdo it! If your normally Jimmy Durante-sized honker ends

lipstick or lip gloss. If it’s your eyes that you dearly love, focus

up looking like a pert Disney princess nose, no one is going to

on mascara and a complementary eye shadow, and downplay the

believe it.

other features by going more naturally toned.

And please, don’t overdo the selfie. Even though it is natural

Play around with different camera angles. Often an angle

for us to have a narcissistic tendency, let us not reveal that less

taken from above your eye level is very flattering. Keep in mind

than favorable trait to the whole world by having 99% of our social

what you want to focus on. If it’s a new hairstyle, take the picture

media pictures be ones of ourselves. Loving yourself is a good

from an angle that will showcase your new do. Be sure to frame

thing. But as with all things, there is such a thing as too much of

your picture. If you want people to see you … instead of where

a good thing!

40 charm JULY/AUGUST

Ranting Raving and ! Ready to Roll Life doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get easier, but we get better at it! Words by Tammy Whitehurst

mycharmonline.com 41

anting, raving, and ready to roll! That pretty much describes life over the age of 45 for most women. This season in our lives is filled with life-changing moments. I am going to rant and rave and this might disturb a few of you. I am a woman about to get real about life, love and laughter. Brace yourselves, this might be a rough ride.

• We have learned that life is a special occasion. We cannot afford to waste our days. • We know why people our age do not jog anymore. • We also know it is ok to admit we are tired. Sometimes, we are dead tired.

Getting REAL about life. By this age, we realize that even though life did not turn out the way we dreamed it would, it still turned out great. Life is what we make of it. We can make amends, make a mess or make up our minds. We have made mistakes, battled regrets, learned lessons and faced fears. We know how to grit our teeth, and give it all we’ve got. Perseverance pays off, and praying for patience is not off limits. I have a group of friends who not only talk about life together. We experience life together. Our lives are about living on the edge until we make it to the other side. We believe a merry and laughing heart is better than any medicine. Some of us tried marriage more than once, and we truly understand why in most cases, it was only meant to be one time. We have loved and raised children we did not give birth to, but we love them as if they were our own. Our children have let us down, and we have let down our children. We love our grandchildren whether they were conceived before or after marriage. We even love them if their parents never got married. We have learned to lean on each other, to live life with a smile, to cry our eyes out, and to laugh till our bellies hurt. Being around each other makes us all better wives, mothers and grandmothers. One thing we all agree on is that life hasn’t been easy, but it has been worth it. We realize we get better at life when we work hard at finding the good and not stressing over the bad. We remind each other that we can live a blessed life.

Life 101, and the lessons it has taught us in 45+ years. • We realize being “right” isn’t all that it is cracked up to be. • We have learned listening is the icing on the cake, and apologizing is the cherry. • We know when we say, “I told you so” to someone, it makes us look as ugly as watching the Miss America pageant makes us feel.

42 charm july/august

Speaking of tired, let me begin by saying there is a difference from being tired and dead tired. There are days we just want to throw in the towel. Our backs ache, our feet hurt and often, our hearts break. Cancer has entered our group more than once. We are sick and tired of it, but it forces us to realize what is truly important. We realize life is short. We gotta smile while we still have teeth. We smile a lot regardless of how hard life hits. For some reason “toes in the sand” and waves of water have healing effects. If not, then we have brainwashed ourselves into believing they do. We are all busy women no matter what age or stage of life we are in. We look at our calendars “at a glance” and think, “HOW will I ever do it all and take time to exercise too?” I have learned from my friends that I am not alone. There are days we sit on the couch with our running shoes laced up and never stand from the sitting position. Our running shoes look brand new, and we bought them over a year ago. Does that tell you anything? We eventually take our shoes off and go to bed. It always reminds me of the words: “Come to me, all you that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” We need rest. Some of us more than others.

Getting REAL about love. At our age, we awaken and look at One A Day vitamins and wonder what would happen if we took 10 a day. Would it give us more strength to tackle the day as well as tackling house clean-

ing? I have learned from these friends that it is not unforgivable to be a pitiful housekeeper, nor is it a sin to not eat at the dinner table. We can love dinner whether it is at a table, on the couch or on the go. In the name of ranting, I think I will keep going just a wee bit longer. At this age, we can walk comfortably in our own shoes and embrace life’s difficulties, but we realize some things are changing fast. For instance, hair. The older we get, hair becomes more of an issue. It does not take near the time to shave our legs as it did in our younger days. There comes a time in a woman’s life when she realizes it is pointless to shave above the knees anymore. Who wears shorts anyway? Most of our so–called shorts are “capris.” The thought of putting on a swimsuit for vacation does not paralyze us anymore. We had great intentions of losing weight, but it did not happen, and that is okay. We always have next year, right? In my group of friends, we love people more than we hate their issues. This is how we can have peace with the people we love. Most families are two clowns shy of a full blown circus. We have all realized families are like pecan pie - full of nuts held together by a firm foundation. We can lose those dearest to us when we sweat the small stuff. We know advice given without being asked for is really masked criticism. We prefer to remove the masks at this point in our lives. We want to be a gift of love to people, to our husbands and to our children. We have no time for drama unless it’s a chick flick. We are convinced the best gift of love our husbands can give us will not cost him a dime. Look us in the eye, tell us we are beautiful and love us even in the midst of menopause. Love is such a fabulous word. It can heal words that have been said and hearts that have been broken.

Getting REAL about laughter. This group of enlightened women and I have, finally figured out the power behind encouragement. It is about the sound of laughter - not the sound of silence. We also realize Super Glue and duct tape can fix just about everything; dirty looks fix nothing; and tattoos are not the end of the world, even if we do not like them personally. So many of our children are inked this day and time. At our age, we know all those flowers tattooed on breasts will one day be hanging baskets. Life is how we look at it. That is what we call living on the sunny side! As I wrap up my ranting and raving, I want to talk about danc-

ing. Our bodies have begun to snap, crackle and pop so much that we feel like spokeswomen for Rice Krispies. On those days, we take an Aleve, and boogie ‘til the sun goes down. We might not look good to others, but being a “brickhouse” has more to do with laughter than looks. We have some awesome dance moves (probably not our career path at this age and with our skills).We have discovered we are at the point in life where a good pedicure, manicure, hair color, convertible, splash of perfume, adjustment by the chiropractor and red lipstick can get our groove back in no time.

Here we are - it’s time for the annual girlfriend vacation to the beach, and we have learned one more thing. It is a BIG thing. We do not have to lose weight to have a good time! We know mirrors don’t lie. We are just glad they don’t laugh. It isn’t about looking trim and tan on the beach anymore. It is not about tugging and pulling on the swimsuit we paid way too much for to make our imperfect body appear perfect. It is about living life fully alive and enjoying every single second of it with those we call our sister/friends. We want to live life fully alive every day until the day we die. Off we go with the wind in our hair, laughter on our lips and so many snacks for the road trip we might not fit into our jeans tomorrow. Life goes on. It does indeed have silver linings and beautiful sunrises when we appreciate the gift of friendship through thick and thin. ( And I am not talking about weight.) Though troubles linger still, the sound of laughter makes tough times seem a little smaller, and the good times in life a lot bigger Life doesn’t get easier, but we get better at it. Here’s to the Black Eyed Peas band, brown-eyed gals and blue-eyed women.

I gotta feelin’ that today’s gonna be a good good day! I gotta feeling, woohoo! Live it up! mycharmonline.com 43

charm review

Hidden Huguette Words by KATHY L. MURPHY

WHO was this woman who was one of the richest women in the world?

thought I had read every book that could surprise me. Then, I read “Empty Mansions” by Bill Dedman with Paul Clark Newell, Jr. I had never heard of Huguette Clark, the subject of this book. Who was this woman who was one of the richest women in the world? Who knew her family's empty mansions were sitting in America maintained and ready to go - whenever the owner might arrive - at a cost of $40,000 to $60,000 a month. Some have been sitting empty for decades. Read one of the most fascinating and riveting historical novels of this decade, of one of the wealthiest families in the United States. The story is about Huguette Clarke, the heir to W. A. Clarke, the Montana Copper King, who ran with the likes of the Vanderbilts and the Carnegies, and who spent the last 20 years of her life in an apartment in a hospital in New York. She recently died at 104, and the battle was on between the heirs and the help. 44 charm JULY/AUGUST

Her father founded Las Vegas. How did I not know that? There are so many surprises in this book - too numerous to count! “Empty Mansions” was well-researched and written by Pulitzer Prize-winning NBC journalist, Bill Dedman, along with the help of a family member, Paul Clark Newell, Jr. The book chronicles this American family story, and covers nearly 150 years. Dedman discovered the first “empty mansion,” and as a journalist, knew he had a story. The author did his homework, and recently has had the book optioned for film. This could quite possibly be the American version of the popular British “Downtown Abby” television series that has had us all glued to the set each season. I have never been more compelled to read this page-turner that covers decades of American history - but reads like a novel. I read it in two nights and it’s a tome, but you’ll never want to put the book down. It’s that good! We have the family story, which is a story in and of itself, and then the help, who accumulate more wealth than you could possibly imagine just from taking care of the reclusive Huguette Clark. Then, you have this vast collection of homes, and all the art and furnishings secret to everyone but those that cared for the estates. The book also has incredible photographs of the family members, their empty mansions and of their vast display of wealth, opulence and art collections, which would rival any museum in the world. I haven’t even mentioned the doll collection of Huguette, which just adds even more intrigue to her reclusive nature. Was she for real? I do believe so, and it’s one of the most amazing stories I have ever read of someone who truly was enveloped in mystery. Even though Huguette ran in the same circles as the some of the wealthiest families in America, no one had ever heard of her. The others are household names. This is one of the best-kept secrets in America, and one that makes me keep asking questions even after finishing the book. Nobody loves a great mystery better, and this time it’s all-true. There’s nothing I love more in the world than discovering a read that is perfect for book club discussion and continues to make you ponder. How did the world miss this story? Thanks to Bill Dedman, we have now discovered another great read! Kathy L. Murphy is the author of “The Pulpwood Queens’ Tiara Wearing, Book Sharing Guide to Life” and founder of The Pulpwood Queens Book Clubs.

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charm feature

The

s l a i t n e s s E

on Oils Words by SUSIE SWASSO

ave you ever walked into a store that sells bath and body products and immediately been transported in your mind to some far away, tranquil spa? One minute you’re in the doorway of the store, and the next, you’re lying on a massage table on a deserted beach surrounded by the sweet smells of tropical flowers. Of course, the next minute, someone rudely brushes past you mumbling something like, “Crazy lady, go stop and smell the roses somewhere else.” Don’t get upset. In a few minutes you’ll more than likely find the same individual with their nose buried in some candle with their eyes closed: transported to their own version of paradise.

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These wondrous pleasures to our senses come from the natural essential oils found in plants, flowers, and herbs. These oils extracted from various forms of flora have the ability to transform our mental state and take us on a sensory trip to pleasant places! Generally, when we think of travelling, we imagine using our feet to “get where we’re going.” Who would think it possible for your nose to actually get you there more quickly? The power of the human smell is phenomenal. For this reason, man has been utilizing aromatic essential oils for centuries to restore the well-being of the human psyche. Today they are recognized to have many great health benefits as well. The FDA does not recognize them as medicines, but naturalists encourage them to be used for the treatment, or aid in the of various health issues. If you like to take a holistic approach to your health, these essential oils might be a good option for you to check out. Needless to say, essential oils can take your senses wonderful places and soothe your state of mind, but they are much more than that. However beneficial essential oils may be, before you start using them, you should do your research. Most oils are used diluted, and even though some can be used undiluted, you should test on small areas of your skin first. Essential oils are used topically on your skin or inhaled through aroma therapy. They are not to be ingested through your mouth! This is where I lose my husband. He thinks a hot apple pie, fresh out of the oven, has the aromatic capabilities to take him to his “special place,” AND he can eat it too! Which is all good and well – if you aren’t worried about your waistline! But, seriously, no matter how enticing some EOs (essential oils) may be, please do not try to eat them! Also, be aware that some oils are not to be used during certain times, like when you are pregnant. If you have asthma, epilepsy or some other health condition, you should be sure to discuss using specific EOs with your physician first. Remember that your children should not use these oils unsupervised, especially undiluted or for the first time. And as with many things in life, remember the golden rule: less is more. Now that we have the warnings out of the way, let’s get into the fun stuff – what oils do what! They do so much more than just smell good. One of the most popular essential oils is peppermint. Hands down, this is one of my favorites! And if you were to be brave enough to stick your hand into the bottomless pit that I call “my purse,” you would find, at this very moment, a small bottle of peppermint oil. Why you ask? Well it’s not to freshen my breath (I have gum for that). I keep it there for two main reasons; for sinus headaches and for a pick me up! Peppermint is a wonderful naturally occurring product to aid in the relief of headaches! I rub a little oil onto my temples and wait a few minutes. Now, I use it undiluted since I have no adverse reactions to it, but you will want to do a small skin test first on yourself. A little warning: peppermint oil is potent! The fumes are quite strong, so when I put it on my temples I close my eyes for a few minutes. If you forget this step, your eyes will water! Besides avoiding a traditional pain killer for my aching head, I also use this oil in lieu of coffee for an afternoon pick-up! Just a few whiffs of my little bottle and I feel like I’ve splashed myself in the face with ice-cold water. Used aromatically, peppermint can also help with nausea, nasal congestion or cool sore throats. You can also mix this oil with other oils (vegetable-based) and rub into

sore muscles for relief. And a little tidbit of info; peppermint is a key ingredient in PMS products! No wonder I love it so much! Another big hitter in the world of essential oils is lavender. This is a very popular essential oil in spas throughout the world, as well as a common additive to bath and body products. And lavender happens to be one of the more gentle essential oils, which means most people can tolerate using it undiluted on their skin. Lavender has so many health benefits, it’s often referred to as a “first aid kit in a bottle.” Its antibacterial quality aids in digestion, calms the nervous system, improves sleep, aids with repertory disorders and helps fight acne. Like peppermint, it also helps fight headaches. Who knew such a fragrant little purple flower could do so much?! There are literally hundreds of essential oils to choose from. If you are looking for something good for your skin, besides lavender sesame, rose and geranium also make good choices. Sesame oil also has a slight SPF factor and can help to slow the growth of cancer cells. Rose oil is often considered the ultimate “woman’s oil” because of its ability to aid in balancing hormones, treating PMS and soothing the effects of menopause. There are also many EOs that have antiseptic, antibacterial and analgesic properties, such as pine oil. Because of this, it is often used in the treatment of various skin issues such as psoriasis, eczema and pimples. Beyond that, pine oil can also help to ease sore joints or arthritic pain and speed up your metabolism. Have you ever had a “rough night” that caused you to have the mother of all hangovers? Clove is your answer! And it’s probably accessible in some form in your kitchen. Maybe you might use it for tooth or gum pain. Diluted clove can also be used to treat bug bites, cuts or scrapes. This smelly herb can also aid earaches, digestion and nasal congestion. As with most items today, there are many sources out there on the great World Wide Web. Regarding EOs, the information can be quite daunting. A very reliable source of information regarding these precious oils and how to use them is www.youngliving.com. I have found them to be customer service-oriented and their products are top-notch quality. They also have lots of information on how to dilute your oils and with what mediums. Another good sight to search for EOs by their health benefits is www.aromaweb.com. Britney with Young Living said that essential oils are a “great alternative to modern medicine or used to aid medicines.” For those of us who prefer natural treatments, essential oils can become a very good alternative to medicine. However, sometimes medicine is the best option. As with all things that you put on your body, you should discuss any new regimen with your physician.

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