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Women
DECEMBER 2013 HOLIDAY YUM WITH A POWER
KICK!
MAKE KITCHEN SAFETY A PRIORITY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
SIX SIMPLE WAYS TO OPTIMIZE YOUR MORNINGS
He r Broke n Place s REVIEW
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WHAT A HOME INSPECTION CAN DO FOR YOU To help get the most from a home inspection, Montanaro and Salt Lake City home inspector Kurt Salomon offers this advice:
W
hen buying a new home, an inspection should be viewed as a necessity.
“You want surprises that come with homeownership to be happy surprises, not bad ones,” says J.J. Montanaro, a certified financial planner with USAA. “A thorough home inspection by a certified professional can help ensure that’s the case.” You’ll pay around $300 to $500 for an inspection, which can take two to three hours. The cost can vary based on your geographic region, and the size and age of the home. Requesting other services, such as septic and radon testing, will add to the fee.
! STED ST LI
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• Do your homework: Many contracts include a homeinspection deadline, so start shopping for an inspector when you qualify for a mortgage.
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• Look for the inspection clause: Before you sign a contract, make sure it includes a clause that makes your purchase contingent on the findings of an inspection with the inspector you choose. • Hire a pro: Shop around. Ask friends, neighbors and real estate agents for recommendations. For help online, the American Society of Home Inspectors has a database of its certified inspectors. Article Sponsored by:
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Contents
4 Deck The Halls With Tissues And Allergy Meds
5 Secrets For A Streamlined Routine: How to Look Flawless In Seconds 6 Make Kitchen Safety A Priority This Holiday Season 7 SAVE THE DATE! 8 Great Holiday Gifts For Everyone On The List 9 How To Keep Perspective This Holiday Season 10 Six Simple Ways To Optimize Your Mornings 11 Eat Play Williamsburg Review - Beyond Bricks 12 Life Is Beautiful - Share It 13 Save Fifteen Days A Year & Live Sustainably With Home Organization 14 DIY Decorating That Lasts All Season Long 15 Seven Small Changes With Big Impact 16 Hosting A Safe Holiday Visit For Elderly Guests 17 Her Broken Places - Pt 2 18 Ho Ho Holiday Treats - Make The Season Simple & Sweet 19 Gift Giving Time! 19 Distribution Locations
Wishing You A Merry Christmas! Published by Orchard Business Group RENEW Magazine is published by Eneida Orchard of Orchard Business Group and is distributed Free throughout the greater Williamsburg Area and Newport News. Publication of advertising herein does not necessarily constitute endorsement. Articles are the opinions of the writers and do not reflect the opinion of the publisher, advertisers, or their agencies. All copy is protected and cannot be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Contributing Writers - Eddie & Mindy Lepp Tracy Wainwright • Tatrece Swann • Janice Underwood Orchard Business Group • P.O. Box 593 • Lightfoot, VA 23090-0593 757-561-5219 • info.renew.va@gmail.com www.facebook.com/renewmagazine.va www.renewvamagazine.com
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Deck the halls with tissues and allergy meds
(BPT) - Whether you live near or far, returning home for the holidays can be a nostalgic time. But for those with allergies and asthma, celebrating the season with family and friends can be anything but enjoyable. “Stress from the holidays, traveling and briefly staying in a new environment can weaken your immune system,” says allergist Dr. James Sublett, chair of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) Indoor Environment Committee. “Being in these different situations can also mean coming in contact with allergens that can spur sudden allergy and asthma attacks.” To help deck the halls with holiday cheer instead of tissues and allergy medications, the ACAAI has put together tips to help you understand what can trigger your symptoms when returning home for the holidays.
Allergies are coming to town - Even if you’ve never before had a problem with your grandma’s cat, you may find yourself suddenly sneezing and wheezing. These sudden symptoms are known as the Thanksgiving Effect, which earned its name after visiting relatives and college students, heading home for holiday breaks, suddenly noticed an allergic reaction to their pet. Allergies can strike at any age, meaning being a houseguest in a pet’s home can be bothersome. If you notice you are having an allergic reaction, ask the host to keep the pet away from where you will be sleeping. Be sure to take your allergy medications and wash your hands immediately after petting your new furry friend. Pass the sneezy pudding - Festive feasts are a staple of this time of year but they can contain several health hazards if you have a food allergy. Be sure to check ingredient labels and don’t be afraid to ask your loved ones how the meal was prepared. Items like stuffing can contain shellfish and holiday sauces can often have peanuts or tree nuts included. Oh Christmas tree, how sappy are your branches - If you find yourself sneezing around the Christmas tree, wreaths and garland, you might be allergic to terpene. Naturally produced by plants, terpene can be found in oil and sap. Poinsettia plants can also be a problem for those with a latex allergy. Other decorations, such as
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menorahs and ornaments might be laden with dust from being stored in an attic all year, irritating those with a dust mite allergy. Make a list and check it twice - Before you travel home for the holidays, pack wisely. Be sure you take along allergy medications, an inhaler and allergist-prescribed epinephrine if you are at risk for a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. If you rely on immunotherapy (allergy shots) for relief, be sure to schedule an appointment with your allergist before you leave. Allergies and asthma shouldn’t put a damper on holiday celebrations. Before you set out to visit with friends and relatives this season, check out smoke and pet-free hotels in the area just in case you need a new place to stay. If you’ll be away from home most of the season, find a local allergist you can see in your temporary destination by visiting www.acaai.org/AllergistFinder.
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her routine.
Secrets for a streamlined routine: How to look flawless in seconds
(BPT) - Every year, women spend billions of dollars on cosmetics and beauty products because they think that a complex routine is the key to unlocking their beautiful best. Women are busier than ever and need simple solutions to streamline their everyday. Emmy and Golden Globe Award nominated star of the TV series “Nashville,” Connie Britton was one of these women whose routine involved multiple steps. Back on set and busier than ever, Britton offers up her favorite tips for simplifying
* Connie’s beauty secret: “I have tried many products over the years and have a cabinet full of the latest * Get glowing: Britton’s other secret for beautiful moisturizers, skin? “I love doing exercise that feels like it sunscreens and strengthens and nourishes inside and out, so foundations to lately I have been doing a lot of yoga, which prove it,” says incorporates body, mind, and spirit,” she says. “I Britton. “I was so always feel great after!” excited to finally discover POND’S * Make-up for lost time: “As a mom, it’s tough Luminous Finish to fit in a full eight hours of beauty sleep,” says BB+ that has Britton. “But I’m always really amazed at what a short and long difference a couple of coats of volumizing term benefits - it mascara make in the morning. It actually helps gives me flawless me look bright-eyed and well-rested.” After coverage instantly and evens out my skin tone curling lashes apply two coats of mascara for eyes while brightening and moisturizing my skin. It that looking instantly brighter and awake. really does it all and keeps its AWARD WINNING ACTRESS SHARES HER promise.” Britton has teamed up MUST-HAVE MULTI-TASKING BEAUTY SOLUTION with POND’S to help women get flawless skin. The multi-tasking beauty benefit cream is formulated with Tone For more tips from Britton, visit the POND’S Perfecting Complex and visibly fades dark spots. Facebook page at facebook.com/Ponds. * Snacks to swear by: Busy routines allow for little
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time to sit down and enjoy a meal. “I make sure to carry high protein, healthy snacks like almonds that are great for my skin and help keep it radiant,” explains Britton. As a bonus, being prepared with healthy snacks make it is easier to resist the urge to give into the temptation of sugary treats.
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Christmas Open House
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MAKE KITCHEN SAFETY A PRIORITY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON As millions of homes across the country prepare for the Holidays, The National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) message - “Prevent Kitchen Fires” - is worth revisiting. Home fires fires are most likely to begin in the Kitchen. Cooking accounts for about half of all reported home fires. In fact, cooking is responsible for upwards of 150,000 home fires each year, which result in nearly 500 deaths, over 5,000 injuries and about $1 billion in property damage. Considering that more cooking fires occur during the holidays than on any other time of the year, safety in the kitchen should be even more of a priority at this time of year. • Pay attention to your cooking: If you are tempted to leave your kitchen to greet and mingle with family members that are over for the holiday, or to sneak into the living room to watch a big NFL play, DO NOT leave your cooking unattended. If you must sneak out of the kitchen for a second, make sure you designate someone to keep an eye on things for you. • Keep all food packaging away from burners or heat sources. Such materials that have the potential to catch fire and spread quickly to other areas of the kitchen and home. • If you’re using cooking oil, heat it slowly and keep a close eye on it – cooking oil has the potential to ignite quickly. • Refrain from wearing baggy clothing or shirts with loose sleeves around the stove or oven, where such clothing may catch fire, but it’s also more prone to errantly catch on the handles of pots and pans too. • Grease fires are always possible during a big cooking holiday, so keep a lid nearby in case you need to smother one in the kitchen. Finally, perhaps the simplest thing to keep in mind regarding fire safety is also arguably the most overlooked: SMOKE DETECTORS. Smoke detectors should be tested monthly to ensure they’re functioning properly. They should be placed on all levels of the home, especially outside of sleeping areas. Even with all the proper precautions in place, accidents and equipment malfunctions can still happen. And that’s where your local PuroClean office can help in restoring your fire or smoke-damaged property to a pre-loss condition. For more information on PuroClean’s fire and smoke damage restoration services, as well as water damage, disaster restoration, mold and bio-recovery services, contact Mike O’Donnell today.
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SAVE THE DATE!
RENEW
Revitalize
Educate
Empower Nurture Women
Wome n’s He alth & We llne ssExpo Saturday March 8, 2014 10a-4:30p at
To Benefit:
Grand Prize 8 Day 7 Night Vacation For Two at a 5 Star Resort Anywhere in the Continental USA Courtesy of CE Travelers Advantage Club
FREE ADMISSION (Please Bring Food/Other Donation for Avalon)! *Wish List online at www.renewvamagazine.com
“Empowering women through resources to enhance body, mind and spirit.” With so much attention given to a healthy lifestyle,
RENEW Women’s Health & Wellness Expo is a one-day fun filled lifestyle celebration event that features informative exhibits, demos and booths highlighting products & services that are of particular interest to women. Sponsorships & Booths Available
RENEW Women’s Health & Wellness Expo will provide attendees Vision Screenings, guest presentations on Health & Wellness. Attendees can shop for travel, leisure, financial services, health and fitness and more. RENEW Women’s Health & Wellness Expo promises to have high energy atmosphere with prizes and giveaways conducted throughout the event. CONFIRMED VENDORS (*As of 11/23/13)
P,O Box 593 Lightfoot, VA 23090-0593 757.561.5219 O - 866.297.5241 F orchardbusinessgroup@gmail.com www.renewvamagazine.com
It Works Global-Janine Sage Holistic Center Lifestyle Health Coaching Soulful Journey Studio A Fitness Paparazzi Accessories
Victorious Images Compassionate Hypnotherapy Erase the Canvas Churas Custom Interiors Traci Lynn Jewelry Living Abundantly Inc.
We also buy gold, silver and platinum jewelry, sterling flatware and hollowware, gold & silver coins.
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1915 Pocahontas Trail, Se E1/E2 Williamsburg, VA 23185
DECEMBER 2013 RENEW
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GREAT HOLIDAY GIFTS FOR EVERYONE ON THE LIST The holiday season is quickly approaching and you may already be stressing about how to find items that everyone on your shopping list will love. Sure you could pick up a generic gift certificate or hand over some cash in a bland holiday card, but you can do better than that. This year, avoid the socks and hand soaps and make everyone wish they received a present from you with the following great gift ideas. From the rugged outdoorsy type to the chefs in the kitchen and all your loved ones in between, there’s something for everybody. * For the busy, always traveling relative, coworker or loved one, the Thermos Brand Vacuum Insulated Travel Tumbler is the perfect gift this holiday season. * When the angler in your life reaches for their tackle box, make sure they find fishing’s latest marvel, the Rapala Scatter Rap. * Treat the snack lovers on your shopping list to lean protein snacks like Jack Link’s Turkey Jerky. * The home chef on your list will appreciate the gift of easy prep and easy cleanup with Calphalon’s Contemporary Nonstick Cookware. For more information on these great gift ideas, visit Thermos.com, Rapala.com, JackLinks.com and Calphalon.com or connect with each brand on Facebook.
HOLIDAY YUM WITH A POWER KICK! It is a fact that the Aztec Warriors ate Chia before battle; you can eat this before you do your holiday shopping or have to face dramatic holiday guests!
Chia Pudding~ a great easy snack that can you eat anytime. 1/4 cup Chia Seeds 1 tbs. Pure Organic Vanilla extract
1 cup Almond or Coconut Milk 1/4 Organic Agave or raw honey
Directions Combine Chia seeds and almond milk,mix very well, chia seeds will lump if not stirred constantly for several minutes. Add sweetener of your choice and vanilla extract. Stir well. When the mixture has formed a creamy texture, place in refrigerator and let sit for 2-3 hours. *You can use Almond extract or citrus extract or other flavorings to suit your taste. You can also add fresh fruits and berries. Chia can also be added to smoothies, salads, yogurt, anything. Chia is high in calcium, iron, phosphorus, magnesium and zinc. High fiber content, omega 3, 6 and 9’s, a great source of protein. High energy and nutrition without the fat content. 8 RENEW DECEMBER 2013
Control Your Cravings This Holidaze Season December 11, 2013 (Bring canned food item for Kiwanis to class) Cravings and You~ a workshop for all people, ages, shapes and gender. This workshop will engage you to look at the foods, deficits and behaviors in your life that are the underlying causes of your cravings. See website for more details: www.sage-holistichealth.com or call
757.585.9481 Meditation Class Coming Soon!
“HOW TO KEEP PERSPECTIVE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON” such as gifts and food for holiday gatherings. The consumerism over the holiday period is now so “over the top” that families are left arguing over money, and desperate parents scrabble over the under-stocked toys of the season….and let’s not forget those saleenthusiasts who queue up before dawn the day after Thanksgiving. Many retailers rely on the holidays to make up for the summer slumps y favorite time of the year is here!! and prepare for the slow sales of the New Year. For some the Holiday doesn’t This dependence has made Christmas, a single officially begin until the day after day in late December, swell into a three month Thanksgiving, but for yours truly, when I holiday season. “The holidays” -- with their hear the Sounds of the Season tunes playing sales and decorations now claims nearly a on the radio I’m immediately drawn into the quarter of the year. Holiday spirit. Is it just me, or do people The Christmas holiday means so many things seem to be more kind to others during this to so many others, and regardless of your time of the year? How nice it would be if religious affiliation, it’s the time of the year we adopted the Christmas spirit year-round. when we should spend it with family and The secular nature of Christmas was friends. Giving at Christmas reflects the officially acknowledged in 1870 when the generosity of God, so be generous in a way that United States Congress made it a federal shows love and affection rather than trying to holiday. Federal and state employees and buy love and affection. We can spend so much most private businesses observe December time, money and energy on selecting the 25th by not working. So if you don’t perfect gift, when instead, I urge families to celebrate Christmas on the 25th or at all, “show” love and affection rather than trying to how do you enjoy a day off when nearly “buy it”. With the challenging economic everything is closed? What family traditions times, try starting a new family tradition, or do you observe with your own family? make a new Many families use their vacation time to memory gather and visit while observing certain that’s free of traditions that have been passed down over spending the years such as activities, decorations and your hard good food. earned While the focus has definitely shifted to finances, and more of a consumer driven gift-giving focuses more bonanza, there are certain key words that on recome to one’s mind when you think of the connecting holidays: beautiful decorations, Christmas and retrees, ice skating, baked goodies, office discovering parties, parades, and yes shopping. your most Americans spend about $8 billion annually important on Christmas decorations alone, and over an gift…. estimated $400 million on additional items family.
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approximately 20 percent more than those who wait until after breakfast. Rev up your metabolism: Allow a little extra time in your morning to rev up your metabolism. A short, 20 minute weight lifting session can get your blood pumping and help you burn calories throughout the day. Of course, if you’re busy managing the kids in the morning, you can still increase your Photo courtesy of Getty Images metabolism just by adding more protein to your morning meal while making sure it’s low in calories and carbs. Make time for breakfast: Never skip breakfast — not only will that deplete your energy, but it can also negatively impact your health. In fact, recent studies show that those who opt out of breakfast time are at a 27 percent higher risk of having a heart attack. The same study also finds that those who eat breakfast are likely to be healthier eaters overall. This is especially important for children as they develop habits over time. So, help them establish a healthy breakfast habit early. If time is an issue, make breakfast a priority (and a convenience) by filling your pantry with quick, healthy. low-fat options, such as Vi Crunch™84¢
Six Simple Ways to Optimize Your Mornings
(Family Features)
E
ven the most chipper of morning people can sometimes wake up groggy and tired. And if their children wake up feeling the exact same way, mornings can definitely drag. There are, however, little things you can do — from scheduling exercise at optimal times, to packing protein into breakfast, to planning daily goals — that will make a big difference. The following tips will help put that zing in your family’s step. Wake up and work out: Do you start your morning with a healthy dose of exercise? The time you begin your workout matters more than you may think. A study shows that those who work out before eating in the morning burned
HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO OUR PATIENTS
cereal, which provides 12 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber. For more information, visit www.ViCrunch.com. Create a checklist: Think of your entire day as a series of small goals and write them down in the morning or the night before. Then cross out tasks as you complete them. Not only will you reduce stress from having a better visual of your family’s day, you will feel more productive as you progress through your list. Shake up the morning: Get out that blender and toss in healthy foods. Breakfast smoothies and shakes are a fast way to get the essential nutrients to jumpstart your day. Plus, they’re easy to pour, and they’re mobile —throw in a straw and sip while you walk. Recruit your children to help, and let them have fun mixing up their own tasty creation with fresh fruit like pineapple, banana and blueberries. Amp up your shake with nutritious additions, such as chia seeds, natural peanut butter or Vi Crunch™ Fusions, which come in two delicious flavors, Chocolate Macadamia Granola and Tri-Berry Puffs. Each makes a crunchy topping for your favorite breakfast foods, especially for the young, picky eater. Pause: Before you leave the house, take one minute to breathe. Feel good you ate breakfast and warmed up your body with exercise. And don’t forget to take your to-do list with you. You never know what opportunities the day will inspire.
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DECEMBER 2013
LEGO® awesomeness. If you’ve read some of our other reviews, you have probably gathered that we have children (ages 5 and 3). So when we heard that Beyond Bricks was opening their LEGO awesomeness, there was no question we had to review it. I thought the concept was unique, entertaining, and that many people would want to visit this place. But if I’m being honest, I thought we would enjoy our review visit and leave it at that. Boy was I wrong. Both of my daughters loved it WAY more than I thought they would, and Eddie and I followed suit. It brought me back to my childhood and I told Eddie that I would like to come back just by myself. Although I guess I should bring a child along with me so people don’t give me strange looks :) The Beyond Bricks interior is colorful, inviting, fun and playful. When you walk in, you immediately see their huge open play area and their birthday party rooms in the back (or right depending on where you come in). They have 3 DUPLO playing tables for smaller children and 9 tables for playing with the “regular-sized” LEGOS®. In the main LEGO playing area, there are containers upon containers filled with thousands of LEGOS to choose from (they have the biggest collection in Hampton Roads). Also along the wall, are boxes of LEGO kits. You can choose this add-on for your open play session and go step-by-step through a project to its completion. My 5 year old picked one of them out while we were there and she had a blast putting it together (and so did I while helping her). I love that Beyond Bricks encourages
together time with parents and kids. The owner was telling us how on opening weekend there were no parents “sitting on the sidelines”. Although, if you DO want to have some parent alone time while your child plays, you can do that as well. They have some adult-sized comfy chairs and couches for you to sit and relax on while your child concentrates on their project. Beyond Bricks also offers free WiFi, so if you have work to do, or would just like to hang out online, you could bring your laptop or tablet along with you. Besides being just plain ol’ fun, Beyond Bricks is educational, too. They offer educational enrichment based on the LEGO® Education curriculum, which is designed to stimulate creativity, problem-solving skills, and collaboration. Children will learn about Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) while building a variety of LEGO® creations. (These last two sentences were pasted from their website because there is no way I would remember and articulate all that!)
drop off your children for 3 hours where they get their Open Play offering, other games and are even fed dinner! I don’t want to overhype it, but I haven’t been as excited with a review since we did MAD about Chocolate. You just have to experience it for yourself to know what I’m talking about. It’s a great way for your kids to get out and do something creative and educational while having a ton of fun. Doing the LEGO kit with my daughter. It was fun to work together and watch her intently work on it step by step. I would love to try one of their camps. I saw a “Posh Princess” one listed on their website that I know my daughter would love.
o
Reviews and photography by husband and wife team, Eddie and Mindy Lepp. For more reviews and a full listing of restaurants and things to do in Williamsburg, VA visit them today at EatPlayWilliamsburg.com.
One of the things that I liked the most about Beyond Bricks was their Open Play offering. For only $12 you get the WHOLE day of playing! So, if you come in the morning when they open, you can stay all day until they close at night. When they say Open Play All Day, they mean it. They also offer a Parents’ Night Out service. With this, you
DECEMBER 2013 RENEW
11
LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL -SHARE IT!
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t’s Ahni & Zoe, your destination for capturing, organizing and enjoying your beautiful life through photos. Fun, easy products let you share memories and create new ones along the way. Make new friends while you earn product and extra income, by hosting a party or by becoming an A&Z Consultant. The New Ahni & Zoe Line ~ Get to know the entire lineup of Fast, Simple Solutions that get your favorite pictures off your phone and into your life. Share with your family. Share with friends. The Ahni & Zoe line is about to add a little sanity to your photo-filled life. From albums to display and accessories. They all come with a Happiness Guarantee. Learn more at AhniandZoe.com.
For more information please call Rosemarie Carpenter at 757-506-8033.
This Holiday Season Give the Gift of Wellness! Many of us find the Holiday Season and the prospect of the New Year to be a stressful time. While we are running errands, making lists (and checking them twice), making resolutions and traveling we find our energy dwindling and our immune systems compromised. The tension from the stress can take it’s toll on us, physically and emotionally. We often forego taking care of ourselves in our efforts to give and do for others. Make a commitment to yourself to take a break and rejuvenate! Just 30 minutes on a Massage Therapy table can boost your immune system, improve your sleep patterns and benefit you by helping you focus and be more productive. The health of our feet also effects our overall well being. “Shopping til you drop” may sound fun- but treating yourself to a pedicure will give you the extra boost to keep you going! While you are here at our Wellness Center and Day Spa taking care of YOU, you can pick up Invitations for your family and friends to treat them to the Gift of Wellness also! Our customizable Gift Cards are available in monetary denominations or can be purchased for specific Services. During the Month of December when you purchase 3 or more Invitations, you will receive a FREE GIFT CARD of $10 towards any of our Services. Treat your Friends and Family to: • Therapeutic Massages • Facials • Body Wraps, Masques and Scrubs • Natural Manicures and Pedicures For that New Year’s Resolution, make a commitment to yourself to be Happy and Healthy! We offer packages of 5 or 10 Therapeutic Massages at discounted rates for our Guests so you can benefit from a regular schedule of self care. We are “Warming the World With Healing Hands” and we look forward to seeing you at your next Visit!
(757)-MASSAGE
2225 South Henry St. Williamsburg 12 RENEW DECEMBER 2013
Save Fifteen Days a Year and Live Sustainably with Home Organization
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HOLLAND, Mich. ORG (www.HomeORG.com) Homeowners interested in healthy living and sustainability have an easy and satisfying way to help reach those goals. Living in an organized home relieves stress, and saves time and money. It also eliminates the need to consume fuel and make wasteful purchases to replace misplaced items that a homeowner actually has at home. A 2008 consumer study by the National Association of Professional Organizers found that more than half of respondents would save upwards of 16 minutes to one hour a day if they were more organized. That translates into anywhere from two to 15 days a year being wasted. Imagine having 15 more days a year to spend doing what you enjoy the most. Living a more organized life not only saves time, it’s a better scenario for mental and physical health than chaotically triple-checking for a missing shoe in a closet, or hunting for something critically needed.
Ask How You Can Get $ 100 FREE In Accessories* Inner Space Systems has over 35 years of experience in providing and installing quality products for your home. Visit our showroom or visit our website for a glimpse at what we can do for you! • Custom storage solutions: closets, pantries, home offices and more • Custom glass shower and tub enclosures • Custom mirrors • Bath hardware (including ADA compliant hardware) • Garage Organizational Systems Inner Space Systems has a storage solution for every budget; from a ventilated closet shelf system by Schulte, to an adjustable system – freedomRail® by Schulte, to a fully integrated laminate shelf system by ORG. Our experience and knowledge of the industry is our customer’s advantage. To control quality, we fabricate our closet, pantry, garage and other storage systems in our warehouse.
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Homeowners that go from knowing “it’s somewhere,” to knowing “exactly where,” live a more efficient and less stressful lifestyle. “If you’re organized, you’re already thinking sustainably. Sustainability is ultimately a quest to live in a healthier household, community and global environment. Being organized is a good start towards achieving that goal and is an element of living sustainably that is often overlooked,” said Jon King, Design Manager at ORG, a company specializing in closet and home organization solutions. The solutions from ORG create efficiency and save space in a homeowner’s closet, kitchen, garage, pantry, laundry and home office. The organization systems are custom-designed by ORG dealers to meet the homeowner’s exact organization requirements, and also their aesthetic needs with a range of styles and finishes.
When it comes to building or buying a home, many families are choosing locations and attributes that help them be better environmental stewards - whether it’s energy reduction, green products, or appropriatelysized dwellings. “We are seeing a trend where people are downsizing and giving more consideration to the quality of the space versus the quantity,” King said. “Among other things, this is an effort to reduce costs, provide a communal lifestyle, and to be more sustainable.” Organization is critical for obtaining the most efficient use of space for smaller-footprint homes. Less material is needed to build these homes, and utility usage is reduced, which contributes to a more sustainable home. While they provide solutions that deliver a greener lifestyle for homeowners, ORG organizing systems are manufactured with ecofriendly materials that are less impactful to the environment and healthier for homeowners. The ORG panels contain 100 percent recycled and/or recovered wood fibers, and are certified as compliant with the California Air Resource Board (CARB) Phase I emission standards. ORG panels are Environmentally Preferable Product certified by the Composite Panel Association.
ORG and its parent company, The Stow Company, practice sustainability, recycling 93.5 % of total waste, using high-efficiency lighting and encouraging employees to bike to work and bring in material from home for recycling. The Stow Company also reduced its natural gas consumption by 50 percent by Being organized can make a difference with recycling warm air back into the plant through something as simple as baking soda or cinnamon. It’s irritating to make a special trip to its dust-collection system. With a focus on health and sustainability, the company the store for something you discover wasn’t contributes to the community by donating needed after all. With an organized pantry, you time, product, and financial support to see what you need, so ingredients won’t be organizations such as the American Cancer forgotten and won’t go to waste. Society, Habitat for Humanity, Urban Youth Ministries, and Center for Women in “By having a well designed space, you gain efficiency and ultimately there will be less waste,” Transition. King said. “It becomes easy to be a more ORG products are available through a Inner intentional consumer - you can see what you have in your pantry, closet or garage for example, Space Systems who provide design services, organization advice and professional eliminating duplicate purchases. And by installation. Call Inner Space Systems today at integrating organizing systems for recycling and charity donations, it makes the process simple and 757.487.1101 and mention this ad for your can become part of your daily or weekly routine.” RENEW Discount! DECEMBER 2013 RENEW
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DIY decorating that lasts all season long s the holidays roll around, it’s natural to want A to spread good tidings and cheer with festive decorations like wreaths, candy canes and Santa Claus figurines. But this year, instead of digging out the same old holiday decorations, why not create some new looks that will last the entire winter season, even after you put away the gift wrap and ornaments? Stimulate the senses Nothing says winter like the fresh smell of pine and the soft, warm glow of candle light. (BPT) Repurpose simple glass bottles into an outdoorsy candlescape with Krylon Natural Stone Textured Finish spray paint. Available in eight colors, like Olivine, it goes on easy and gives you the natural beauty of stone and an elegant, professional-looking appearance. Once dry, wrap artificial garland with pinecones around the bottle’s neck or let the garland cascade down the bottle. Place pine tree-scented white taper candles in the bottle openings, light and enjoy for a fresh look and smell that will stimulate your senses well into 2014. Color works wonders
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Another easy way to excite the senses during a drab, gray winter is with pops of color. For a decorative display that lasts all season, avoid the red and green color combination associated with Christmas and branch out with more contemporary choices like teals, blues, purples and pinks. Metallics like silver and gold are also a great way to glitz up the season without looking like the North Pole in overdrive. Try Krylon’s ColorMaster Metallic in Gold to spice up old ornaments, vases, frames, centerpieces and more in no time at all. Group spray-painted ornaments or pine cones in a hurricane vase or glass bowl and display on the mantel for added ambiance to any living room. Deck the halls
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Looking for a way to display the abundance of holiday cards from friends and family? Repurpose an old window shutter to create a unique display. Start by spray painting it with a festive shade, such as green or burgundy, which adds a touch of holiday spirit. Once dry, hang the shutter in the kitchen or entryway and place holiday cards in the slats of the shutter for a creative way to stay organized. Once the holidays have passed, you can still use the shutter to display birthday cards, thank you notes, party invitations and more all year long. Outdoor decor
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The inside of the home isn’t the only space you can be creative. Make a lasting statement before houseguests even step inside your home by focusing decorative attention to the outside. Line walkways and driveways with lights or faux miniature pine trees, and place white flameless candlesticks on each windowsill to add a simple touch of holiday spirit without going overboard. Prop a vintage snow sled outside the front door to welcome guests. So, this year instead of the same decorations, consider some fun and easy ways to re-beautify them into pieces that you’ll be proud to display throughout the winter season. For more product or project ideas, visit www.krylon.com.
E
ver envy those beautiful homes that seem to get redecorated with every new season? The latest and greatest looks are easy to incorporate if you keep your furnishings neutral and the décor uncluttered. From there, it’s just a matter of bringing in a few simple touches that create a big impact. Start with one or two easy projects and you will quickly transform your house into a place you’re proud to call home. 1.
2.
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SEVEN SMALL CHANGES WITH BIG IMPACT
Transform With Paint –Every interior designer will tell you the quickest way to transform a home is with a fresh coat of paint. Greet guests with a beautiful new door color. It will give your entire home a facelift with very little time and effort. (Family Features) Warm Things Up –The look of American Olean’s Garden Oasis tile collection featuring OceansideGlass Tile brings color, texture and dimension to a room. hardwood brings warmth to every room in the house. Even kitchen and bathroom spaces can benefit from the addition of wood-look tiles, such as Forest Park from Daltile (http:// www.daltile.com/ ), which are easy to clean, water resistant, and durable, but with the beauty and ambiance of traditional hardwood. Throw rugs are a great way to accent a wood-look floor and are easy to swap out with the change of season or style. Keep it Clean –Kitchens are prime gathering places and just keeping them clean and uncluttered will transform the look and feel of an entire house. Leave just one or two appliances on the countertops, add fresh flowers and hang a pair of colorful kitchen towels to brighten the space. 4.
Make a Space Pop – Add a pop of color and texture with new tile, such as American Olean’s Garden Oasis featuring Oceanside Glass Tile. The tiles, which can be seen at http:// www.americanolean.com/ , come in various shapes, sizes, colors and patterns, so you can easily show off your own creative style anywhere.
5.
Throw on Some Pillows –Filling a room with furnishings in neutral shades is actually the simplest way to embrace new decorating trends. Give a monochromatic room an instant makeover with pillows, artwork and tchotchkes. It’s an inexpensive way to change things up whenever the mood strikes.
6.
Be Neighborly –Even if you only have room for a small pot of flowers, make your front porch welcoming. If possible, set out some chairs for neighborly chats, place a small table between for refreshments and add plenty of cushions for comfort.
7.
Let There Be Light –Instantly change the look and feel of a room just by changing the lighting. Simply change your bulbs to one offering more natural light or swap out the entire light fixture for instant beauty.
Whether you update one room or transform your entire house, these simple changes will turn your home into a sanctuary that truly reflects your own personal style. And don’t forget window coverings, they soften the look of your home and make it more inviting. To schedule your consultation with Debbie Bedner of Unforgettable Interior Design, please call 757-469-9662. DECEMBER 2013 RENEW
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HOSTING A SAFE HOLIDAY VISIT FOR ELDERLY GUESTS Here are some easy, thoughtful preparations to make: 1. Remove obstacles and clutter that could cause a fall. Falls are a serious issue for older adults. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one-third of all people aged 65 or older will fall each year, and many of these seniors are seriously injured. Here are things you can do to lower the possibility that a senior guest will fall in your home: • Remove or secure area rugs and carpets. Each year, thousands of seniors trip over the edges of carpet, or slip on an unsecured throw rug. Secure the edges of area rugs with doublesided tape or a nonslip backing, or remove them entirely during your guest’s visit. • Remove clutter promptly. Keeping floor surfaces free of obstacles is especially challenging during the holidays, when boxes and personal items are often left about. Move these items from the living area and keep them off the floor. Even in the midst of a gift exchange, help guests place
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packaging in receptacles and maintain a clear path at all times. • Rearrange furniture so guests with impaired mobility or vision don’t need to make their way around sofas, chairs and coffee tables. 2. Deck the halls—safely! Position the Christmas tree or other decorations out of the main footpath of the home. And remember, wrapping greenery or strands of holiday lights around bannisters and handrails creates a hazard for guests who need extra support and stability on the stairs. 3. Increase lighting throughout the house. Holiday lights are festive and candles are romantic—but neither provide adequate light for people with decreased night vision, which includes most of us older than 65. Turn on hall and bathroom lights, and leave them on if your guest is staying overnight. Nightlights are another easy, inexpensive way to keep senior guests safe. (If you choose festive holiday nightlights, be sure they are adequately bright.) 4. Be aware of winter weather hazards. Clear snow and ice from the driveway, walkways, stairs and sidewalks. If walks are slippery or outdoor lighting is inadequate, accompany senior guests from the car and into the home. 5. Consider accessibility needs. If an elderly overnight guest has trouble going up and down stairs, assign guest rooms so the person can stay in a downstairs room that has easy access to the bathroom during the night. 6. Enlist the help of young guests. Remind grandchildren, as well as their parents, to keep toys picked up and to take care while moving around the house. Be sensitive during this conversation—you don’t want to discourage children from spending time with senior guests! 7. Remember mealtime safety. If you will be serving a meal or refreshments, learn
ahead of time whether your guest has dietary concerns or problems with eating, chewing or swallowing so you can offer some foods that your guest can easily and safely eat. 8. Even for a short visit, consider some simple home modifications. Nightlights and a nonslip mat for the shower are easy ways to reduce the risk of falls. Ask your elderly guest or a family caregiver if you need to purchase or rent further modifications, such as a raised toilet seat or grab bars for the shower. (Be sure to follow directions carefully when installing and using safety equipment—or seek professional assistance.) If family caregivers are accompanying your senior guest, they will be a good source of information about safety steps you can take. And by keeping their loved one safe, you also increase caregivers’ ability to relax and enjoy the festivities. Assure older guests and caregivers that you are happy to accommodate their needs. Your message should be: “Just let us know if you have any concerns … we’d love to help. We are so pleased you are honoring us with a visit.” And remember: Safety steps you take during this holiday season will make your home safer for guests of every age, while helping your home meet your own needs as you grow older. About Right at Home Founded in 1995, Right at Home offers in-home companionship and personal care and assistance to seniors and disabled adults who want to continue to live independently. Local Right at Home offices are independently owned and operated and directly employ and supervise all caregiving staff, each of whom is thoroughly screened, trained, bonded and insured prior to entering a client’s home. For more information on Right at Home, contact Right at Home at www.rightathome.net/williamsburg757-565-5656) or www.rightathome.net/ princegeorge, 804-415-7415 or or by email at office@rah-pg.com. To sign up for Right at Home’s free adult caregiving e-newsletter, Caring Right at Home, visit www.caringnews.com
relationship. Because she wasn’t. “k.” She shot of a reply text, then dialed Jen’s number. “Hey, girl.” “Hey, old married lady. How’s it going?” Jen laughed. “Great. Better than I could have ever imagined. Barrett’s adjusting to having a girl around and I’m adjusting to a roommate who can cook.” Marla rolled her eyes. “Ha ha. I bet he doesn’t pick as good movies as your old roommate.” He r “Well, there is that.” Broke n “I was wondering, I mean I know y’all Place s are married and everything, but are you and Barrett coming to the bowling alley tonight? You know we Part 2 would love to have you.” Marla glanced at her phone. It was a simple text. Jen laughed again. “You’re the third call “C U 2nite.” It shouldn’t cause her stomach to we’ve gotten. Of course we’ll be there. Just because jump and turn. Lately, though, Carlos had that we’re not officially part of the singles class anymore effect on her. But she wished he didn’t. Her life doesn’t mean you’re not still our friends.” was perfect. She had everything she needed – a Marla’s shoulders relaxed. “Great! I’ll see career, great parents, and really good friends. She you in about an hour then.” didn’t need nor want a man in her life. She hung up and leapt off the sofa to go get ready. So why in the last couple months did Ten minutes later she still stood in front of her electric shocks shoot through her when he closet trying to decide what to wear. draped a friendly arm over her shoulders? And Ahhh. It shouldn’t matter. She why did a simple text unsettle her? grabbed a soft pink sweater and She’d tried to discourage him, to be pair of jeans. Carlos wouldn’t friendly but not give him the wrong idea. If she notice anyway. ignored a text, he called to make sure she was And she didn’t want him to. b okay. He wasn’t being pushy, she knew, but she by Tracy Wainwright, didn’t want him thinking she was interested in a Home Manager, Writer,
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Organic Gifting, itÕs only Natural! Enjoy giving as much as receiving this year, with our certified organic gifts – the perfect choice for your loved ones. With gifts and stocking stuffers in all the price categories, NYR Organic is the perfect one stop shop for everyone on your list. At NYR Organic every one of our products is designed to enhance your beauty by enhancing your health, from the inside out with our herbs and natural remedies, and from the outside with our effective organic skincare formulations and pure essential oils. Because we believe in healthy beauty, you will never find genetically modified ingredients, mineral oil, parabens, synthetic colors or fragrances in our products…. just pure, natural, organic goodness! Our passion for ethics and protecting the environment means that even our beautiful gift boxes are sustainably sourced, being made with FSC-certified card and carbon balanced paper and printed with vegetable-based inks. Guilt-free gifting… now that has to be the perfect way to celebrate the holidays. And while you are finishing your list, why not indulge in a little organic treat for yourself? Feel free to contact me for gift suggestions and assistance.
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(Family Features) Nothing says home for the holidays like the smell of treats baking in the oven and a crowded kitchen filled with loved ones. Whether making decades-old family favorites or starting new holiday baking traditions, you can create homemade holiday goodies in a (ginger) snap. “The holidays are a time when families are in the kitchen at record rates to bake cookies, build gingerbread houses and create a wide variety of sweet treats,” says Nancy Siler, vice president of consumer affairs at Wilton. “The good news is, even if you only have 30 minutes to spare during this hectic time, you can make amazing desserts for gatherings or gifting.” Try these easy treat ideas from Wilton to spread holiday cheer: * Holiday Helpers: Invite family and friends for a cookie decorating day to help prepare gifts for upcoming events. You provide the Sparkling Sugars and Sprinkles, Peppermint Twisted Sticks
and red and green icing ... everyone else provides the creativity. * Miracle on Your Street: Crunched for time with a party to attend? Pick up ready-to-eat cookies and artfully dip them in red and green Candy Melts candy for an elegant upgrade. No one has to know how simple it was to create a customized dessert. * Instant Snowman: Coat peanut butter sandwich cookies in white Candy Melts candy to create instant snowmen. Decorate with hats, scarves and, of course, carrot noses. * It’s a Wrap: Turn your homemade treats into gourmet gifts. Stock up on holiday-themed gift bags and boxes, colorful tissue paper, ribbons and tags to transform made-from-the-heart goodies into extra special gifts. For more holiday ideas and inspiration, visit www.wilton.com.
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Festive Peppermint Twists Dark Cocoa, Light Cocoa, Green or White Candy Melts Candy Peppermint Twisted Sticks Candy Assorted Holiday Sprinkles, including Holiday Nonpareils, Confetti and Jimmies, Red and Green Colored Sugars Line cookie sheets with parchment paper. In Disposable Dipping Container or bowl, separately melt Candy Melts candy in microwave following package instructions. Dip peppermint sticks into melted candy; tap stick lightly to smooth surface. Immediately add sprinkles. Set on prepared cookie sheet; chill until set, 5 to 10 minutes. For more recipes, go online to www.renewvamagazine.com
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