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THE SCIENCE OF SOUND AND MUSIC HEALING
One of the most profound healing arts is sound healing, a practice that uses vibrational frequencies to promote relaxation and wellness. Backed by science, sound therapy has been shown to reduce stress, improve mental health, and even alleviate physical pain.
A 2016 study published in the Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine explored the effects of a 60-minute sound meditation on participants. Researchers found that the session significantly reduced tension, anger, fatigue, and depression while increasing feelings of spiritual well-being. The study highlighted the transformative power of sound waves to harmonize body and mind, making sound healing a cornerstone of the wellness journey.
MEDITATION: A PRACTICE FOR INNER PEACE
Meditation, often called the gateway to mindfulness, is another healing art with immense benefits. Just 10 minutes a day can help reduce anxiety, improve focus, and boost emotional resilience. As we move into 2025, committing to a regular meditation practice could be the key to finding calm amidst chaos.
EMBRACING THE HEALING ARTS:
Your Guide to a Healthier, Happier 2025
The hustle and bustle of daily life often leave us feeling drained and out of sync. The healing arts act as a bridge back to balance, encouraging us to slow down and be intentional about how we live and engage with others. Let’s dive into why these practices matter and how they can transform your 2025.
recovery from trauma. Turn on a favorite playlist or explore live music sessions designed for healing — it’s time to let the music move you.
AROMATHERAPY: SCENTS FOR THE SOUL
The healing power of scent is undeniable. Aromatherapy uses essential oils to stimulate the senses and support physical and emotional health. Lavender for relaxation, eucalyptus for clarity, or citrus for energy — there’s a scent for every mood. Integrating aromatherapy into your routine is a small change with big rewards.
MUSIC THERAPY: NOTES THAT HEAL
Music has long been a source of comfort and joy, but it’s also a therapeutic powerhouse. Music therapy taps into rhythm, melody, and harmony to promote emotional and psychological healing. It’s particularly effective for managing stress, improving mood, and even aiding
TAI CHI: MOVING MEDITATION
Tai chi, an ancient Chinese martial art, is a gentle practice that combines movement, breath, and mindfulness. Often described as “meditation in motion,” it’s ideal for improving flexibility, reducing stress, and enhancing overall vitality. Tai chi invites you to flow through life with grace and presence.
THE YEAR TO PRIORITIZE YOU
2025 is your year. The healing arts offer a way to honor yourself, to slow down, and to nurture your well-being. They help us show up as our best selves — more thoughtful, more creative, and more resilient. Whether it’s the soothing hum of sound healing, the grounding energy of tai chi, or the uplifting scent of essential oils, there’s a practice waiting to transform your life.
Start small, explore widely, and embrace the journey. Here’s to a year of healing, growth, and boundless possibilities!
Welcome to 2025: A Year of Positive Intentions
As we step into 2025, let’s make this the year we focus on growth, joy, and transformation. Affirmations and journaling are powerful tools that shape our mindset and invite positive energy into our lives. They are more than just words — they are intentions, declarations, and reminders of the incredible potential within us. By starting each day with affirmations, you create a foundation for success, resilience, and peace.
Use the following journal prompts as starting points. Reflect, write, and adapt them to resonate with your unique journey. Here's to a year filled with purpose, positivity, and possibility!
8 Journal Prompts for 2025
1. What is one goal you want to achieve this year, and what steps will you take to make it happen?
2. Reflect on a challenge you faced last year. What did you learn from it, and how will you use that lesson in 2025?
3. Describe a perfect day in 2025. Where are you, what are you doing, and how do you feel?
4. What does success mean to you this year? How can you redefine it to align with your values?
5. Who inspires you the most right now, and why? How can you incorporate their qualities into your life?
6. Write about a habit or mindset you want to release in 2025. What will you replace it with, and why?
7. Imagine it’s December 2025, and you’re reflecting on the year. What do you hope to look back on with pride?
8. What areas of your life feel most aligned with your purpose? How can you nurture them further this year?
Use these prompts as opportunities to explore your hopes, dreams, and reflections.
Writing them out will help you set intentions and capture the growth and transformation of your 2025 journey!
A
below are abbreviated versions of the stories of three extraordinary locals we featured in 2024 people who continue to make a real difference within our community
please support local businesses and your neighbor when you can we CAN make a difference
ANOTHER Cathryn Hartwell "PASSION PROJECt"
Operated by Tracy Levy, Frickery Frackery Pottery is part of the Crafting For You artist share co-op. The co-op was founded by Melanie Litten, who offers a variety of creative classes including candle and soap making, sip and paint parties, resin art, scrapbooking, Circuit classes, custom artwork on T-shirts, sublimation, personalized gifts, and kids crafts. You can reach Melanie at (336) 675-5578 for more information or to participate in classes. Additionally, the studio hosts Taylor Made Customs, where Taylor creates original custom artwork for various types of footwear. You can follow Taylor's work on lnstagram and TikTok at @taylor_madecustoms.
HOURS: Tue 6-9pm • Thu 1-4pm • Sat Noon-4pm
Feed your creative soul in a relaxed setting where everyone becomes an artist with pottery wheel classes, ceramic hand-building classes for adults & children.
Here to make memories with you...
After an extended period of being down on his luck, a chance encounter with a local radio station owner would change his life for the good. It wasn't long before he was promoted to a position as a radio producer/show host for Hope 104.5 FM.
And the rest is history. Today Mike is four years sober and very active in giving back to the community that loved him back to life.
He also now serves as Associate Pastor for AMP Church in Burlington and was appointed as Operations Manager for a resource center/day shelter known as Freedoms Hope Compassionate Care Ministry.
Mike credits his father, Broken Chains Biker Church, Revival, Hope City CrossFit, Maverick/Hope Radio, AMP Church, as well as many other Alamance County organizations, with holding him up at a time when he had nothing left to give at least he thought he didn't.
Now he can't give back enough.
What a difference a day makes...
Note 2 Self
Born to teenage parents in the inner city of Detroit, MI, and raised with limited resources, Daniel D. Talley was faced with a challenging beginning.
But Daniel says that with hard work, guidance from God, and support from his parents, he excelled academically, graduating from both high school and Howard University with honors. Between high school and college, he also served our country for five years in the United States Air Force. It was during his stint in the Air force that he says God took the lead in his life.
After college, his journey led him from Washington, D.C. to Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, and to finally North Carolina, where he now resides with his wife and children.
He eventually launched his own cleaning services business called Genesis Cleaning Services, LLC and worked it full-time.
In 2009, feeling led to record inspirational Christian messages, which eventually led to publishing a book called "Note 2 Self: Faithful Inspiration and Aspiration," a collection of poor man’s proverbs that challenges readers to examine their relationship with God. The book went on to become an Amazon bestseller, with proceeds benefiting charity.
From the book’s success, The Note 2 Self Guy YouTube Channel was born. This unique, skit-based ministry is done through positive, inspiring, and sometimes humorously “corny” messages.
Laughter is the best medicine...
Our philosophy is simple
Educating our clients as we guide them through the real estate process results in happier, more successful transactions. Through consistent communication — from showing to signing we’re here to lend our expertise & ensure the best possible experience & outcome.
WAYS TO LIVE HEALTHIER IN 2025
Take steps to limit risk for cardiovascular disease
The last decade has seen a surge in cardiovascular risk factors such as uncontrolled high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity, each of which raises the risks of developing heart disease and stroke. Researchers conclude that the prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) will continue to rise.
More than 60% of U.S. adults will have some type of CVD by 2050, according to forecasted projections from the American Heart Association, which is celebrating 100 years of lifesaving service as the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all. Additionally, total costs related to CVD are expected to nearly triple in that time to more than $1.8 trillion.
While continued systematic changes are needed in science, policy and health care, the majority of CVD is preventable at an individual level. You can help turn the tide on the dire outlook of CVD while improving your own health by following and encouraging others to follow the American Heart Association’s “Life’s Essential 8.”
EAT BETTER
Aim for an overall healthy eating pattern including whole foods, fruits and vegetables, lean protein, nuts, seeds and cooking with olive and canola oils.
BE ACTIVE
Adults should get 2 1/2 hours of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous physical activity per week. Kids should have 60 minutes every day, including play and structured activities.
QUIT TOBACCO
Use of inhaled nicotine delivery products, which includes traditional cigarettes, electronic cigarettes and vaping, is the leading cause of preventable death in the U.S.
GET HEALTHY SLEEP
Most adults need 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Children require 1016 hours for ages 5 and younger, including naps; 9-12 hours for ages 6-12; and 8-10 hours for ages 13-18.
MANAGE WEIGHT
Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight has many benefits. Body mass index is a useful gauge. Optimal BMI is less than 25, but less than 18.5 is considered underweight. You can calculate it online or consult a health care professional.
CONTROL CHOLESTEROL
High levels of non-HDL, or “bad,” cholesterol can lead to heart disease. Your health care professional can consider non-HDL cholesterol as the preferred number to monitor, rather than total cholesterol, because it can be measured without fasting beforehand and is reliably calculated among all people.
MANAGE BLOOD SUGAR
Most of the food you eat is turned into glucose (or blood sugar) your body uses as energy. Over time, high levels of blood sugar can damage your heart, kidneys, eyes and nerves.
MANAGE BLOOD PRESSURE
Keeping your blood pressure within acceptable ranges can keep you healthier longer. Levels less than 120/80 mm Hg are optimal. High blood pressure is defined as 130-139 mm Hg systolic pressure (the top number in a reading) or 80-89 mm Hg diastolic pressure (bottom number).
Find more ways to manage your health in the new year and beyond at heart.org
Hoppy's Burlington Appearance
In 1956, one of the most popular individuals with children everywhere was 61-year old William Lawrence “Bill” Boyd (1895-1972), better known as movie and television cowboy action star “Hopalong Cassidy.” When he appeared in Burlington on Friday, November 23, 1956 as one of the leading attractions in the annual Christmas parade, it drew perhaps the largest crowd (an estimated 40,000) for any Christmas parade in the history of the city.
In the 1920s, Bill Boyd was a matinee idol and starred as the romantic leading man in numerous movies. Unfortunately, a newspaper mistakenly published his photo in place of another actor named William Boyd, who was arrested for gambling and drinking. Although the newspaper quickly apologized for its mistake, Bill Boyd was fired by his studio and no one else would touch him until another studio offered him the role of Hopalong Cassidy in 1935. Nearly broke by that time, Boyd jumped at the chance and appeared as the famous cowboy in dozens of films before the franchise ended in 1948.
Hopalong Cassidy, or “Hoppy” for short, was a different type of cowboy. He didn’t drink, smoke, swear, gamble, start fights, or womanize. And he preferred to bring in the bad guys alive. Accordingly, he was a role model for children and
his high ethical standards resonated well with parents.
When the Hopalong Cassidy movie series ended in 1948, Bill Boyd quickly realized the power of the new medium of television. He mortgaged everything he had, bought up his old films, and secured exclusive rights to his character. Then he began licensing the films to television, which was desperate for high-quality product of any kind. Within a year, Hopalong Cassidy became television’s first national superstar. And as a result of shrewd marketing and a 1952-54 TV series featuring him as Hopalong, he was able to license his image to hundreds of companies which brought him a fortune in royalties. In Burlington, one could buy Hopalong Cassidy outfits at the Capital Store at 215 West Davis Street, or a Hopalong dental kit at Acme Drug Co., or Hopalong grapefruit juice at the A&P. Sunbeam Bread, made at Bamby Bakery on East Front Street was sold as “Hoppy’s Favorite Bread.”
Melville Dairy soon jumped on the bandwagon and licensed the Hopalong character. It sponsored a Hopalong “kiddie matinee” at the Paramount in Burlington every Saturday at 9:00 a.m. beginning in the summer of 1956. And in November of that year it sponsored Bill Boyd’s appearance as Hopalong in the Burlington Christmas Parade.
For the previous nine years, Boyd had appeared in parades all over the country, and he was scheduled in 24 Christmas parades in 1956— of which Burlington was his 14th appearance. On that same day, Boyd spent his morning at the Greensboro parade and had to travel to Lexington to appear there later that afternoon in its parade. Boyd arrived at the Alamance Country Club for lunch shortly before noon. Among his guests were Ralph Scott and Otis Lackey of Melville Dairy, Times-News City Editor Don Bolden, and Burlington’s Police Chief Jesse James (who Boyd specifically requested to meet after hearing he had the same name as the famous outlaw). Following a brief appearance at Melville Dairy on Worth Street, where he met and posed for photos with employees, several local celebrities, and a large crowd of children, a highway patrol motorcade then rushed Boyd to the Eva Barks playground on North Church Street where he met up with his famous horse “Topper,” who had arrived by special trailer.
Dressed in his trademark black outfit, Bill Boyd appeared near the beginning of the parade and was wildly applauded by everyone. Shortly after the parade passed 6th Street, Boyd spied a young boy sitting on a porch in a wheelchair. He
left the parade and talked to him momentarily. A few minutes later he was gone to Lexington, never to return.
Shortly after Boyd’s appearance in Burlington, the Hopalong Cassidy fad faded, soon eclipsed by another TV action character, “Davy Crockett.” But by that time Boyd had made his fortune and was ready to retire. Due to bouts with cancer and Parkinson’s disease, he lived the rest of his life in virtual seclusion and refused both interviews and appearance until his death on September 12, 1972 at the age of 77. But to many now in their late sixties and older, Hoppy’s visit to Burlington was the memory of a lifetime.
Feb 14, 1956 ~ Jul 26, 2023
Attorney and native of Burlington, NC, Walter Boyd developed an interest in Burlington’s history at a very young age. As a child, he often interviewed people and collected old photographs and documents, which led to his fondness for writing about Burlington’s rich history.
WALTER BOYD YATES
2025 WITH A CLUTTER-FREE HOME
The New Year and then spring bringsfresh starts, and there’s no better way to embrace 2025 than by transforming your home into an organized, clutter-free sanctuary. A tidy space isn’t just visually pleasing; it’s a mental refresh that can boost productivity, calm anxiety, and open up emotional clarity. Studies show that an organized home can significantly reduce stress and improve overall well-being, helping you to feel empowered and in control of your life.
Ready to kick the clutter and reclaim your space? Here are 10 simple, expert-backed tips to start the New Year on an organized, uplifting note!
1. START SMALL – BEGIN WITH JUST ONE ROOM
Tackling clutter can feel overwhelming, but starting with a single room, like the kitchen or bathroom, gives a sense of accomplishment. Decluttering expert Marie Kondo suggests focusing on what brings you joy. Once you feel the benefits in one area, motivation will ripple through the rest of your home.
2. CREATE A DONATION BOX
3. SET UP A DAILY DECLUTTER HABIT
Set aside just 10-15 minutes daily to declutter one small area. It could be your junk drawer, a cluttered shelf, or a few piles of papers. As the saying goes, "Small steps lead to big results!" Consistency is key.
4. TRY THE “ONE IN, ONE OUT” RULE
Every time you buy a new item, choose one old item to donate, recycle, or toss. This keeps your space balanced, and you’ll quickly see how much you can do without.
5. MAXIMIZE VERTICAL SPACE
Make use of walls and doors with shelves, hooks, or pegboards. Emily Henderson, interior stylist, recommends wall-mounted storage for maximizing space without cluttering floors or counters, giving your home a lighter, airy feel.
Keep a designated donation box somewhere accessible, like in your closet or garage. As you come across items you no longer need, drop them in. Professional organizer Julie Morgenstern says, “Letting go is easier when you know your items are going to someone who will appreciate them.”
10 TIPS TO ORGANIZE & SIMPLIFY KICK STARTING
6. GO PAPERLESS WHENEVER POSSIBLE
Digitize your bills, receipts, and documents, and keep only essential hard copies. Reducing paper clutter helps streamline your home office and keeps surfaces tidy. The Paperless Movement community suggests setting up online storage for easy access to important documents.
7. ESTABLISH “HOMES” FOR YOUR ITEMS
When each item has a designated spot, you’ll always know where to find it and where it should return. Label containers, drawers, and bins to make it even easier. Organizing guru Peter Walsh stresses the importance of "a place for everything and everything in its place."
8. USE CLEAR STORAGE BINS
Transparent bins allow you to see what’s inside without opening every container. This is especially useful for closets, pantry spaces, and kids' rooms. The Container Store experts recommend clear bins for easy access and to inspire routine clean-up.
9. SCHEDULE A MONTHLY PURGE
Choose one day each month to go through your home and remove items you no longer use. Decluttering coach Tracy McCubbin suggests making this a regular habit to prevent unnecessary buildup over time.
10. CELEBRATE YOUR PROGRESS!
Reward yourself with small treats or a relaxing activity every time you reach a milestone. The National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO) encourages recognizing each step you take toward a more organized space as a motivator to continue.
By reducing clutter, you’re not just organizing a space; you're creating a sanctuary that reflects a peaceful, intentional life. Start this year with a home that lifts your spirits, one that encourages productivity and offers a haven of calm. Let 2025 be your year of clarity and comfort!
Brought
HARTWELL
TOP 11
REASONS
TO LEARN SOMETHING NEW EACH DAY
SOME PEOPLE HAVE A HUGE APPETITE FOR READING AND ARE A BEACON OF KNOWLEDGE. OTHERS TUNE IN TO THEIR FAVORITE YOUTUBE CHANNEL, LISTEN TO A PODCAST OR GO TO WORK OR SCHOOL TO LEARN. KNOWLEDGE IS ALL AROUND YOU FOR THE TAKING EVERY DAY.
LEARNING NEW THINGS CAN ENRICH YOUR LIFE IN MANY WAYS
1. CONVERSATION STARTERS
Who doesn't want to be known for being an interesting conversationalist? You'll have plenty of fodder to share with others.
2. EXPOSES YOU TO NEW THINGS
Learning about new information expands your mind. You become a more interesting and thoughtful person when you gain new knowledge.
3. YOU MIGHT FIND THAT ONE THING THAT MAKES YOUR HEART SING
For example, signing up for a class you’ve been wanting to take but haven’t made the time for, can unleash your creativity.
4. LEARNING IS REFRESHING
Learning excites your mind when you take in new info. You're seduced to learn more and more. It's great to feel like your mind is renewed in some way, and learning every day contributes to that feeling.
5. COMBATS BOREDOM
When you learn something new, it helps you avoid a hum-drum existence. Jazz up your life simply by acquiring new information.
6. GIVES YOU SOMETHING TO LOOK FORWARD TO
If you know that each day after work, you're going to search the internet with your iPad to research your currently favorite topic, you've got something to look forward to during your work day.
7. YOU AFFECT THE LIVES OF OTHERS
Something you learn and share could have a profound impact on another person. At the very least, you might trigger someone's curiosity to the extent that they delve more into a topic you've shared.
8. YOU SET AN EXAMPLE FOR YOUR CHILDREN
There's nothing that gets children interested in reading and scholarly topics like observing their parents expressing excitement about learning. Additionally,
seeing parents open a book, magazine or newspaper every day inspires kids to want to learn, too.
9. KNOWLEDGE IS POWER
Sir Francis Bacon, an English philosopher and writer who lived during the 17th century, once said, "Knowledge is power." When you have knowledge, you have the power to achieve many things.
10. YOU'LL BE INTELLECTUALLY STIMULATED Get your intellectual juices flowing by opening a book, watching an informational video or listening to a new podcast.
11. YOUR QUALITY OF LIFE WILL BE ENHANCED
Learning provides you with an escape when you need it, knowledge when you seek it, and a great pastime.
There are so many reasons to gain new knowledge daily. Expand your mind, set a good example for your children and gain some power in your life. Overcome boredom, cultivate great conversation and positively impact the life of another human being. You'll achieve all of these things and more when you focus on learning something new every day.
WAYS TO BALANCE WORK & 7 life with a toddler!
WE ALL KNOW THAT FINDING BALANCE WHILE JUGGLING MULTIPLE RESPONSIBILITIES AT ONCE ISN’T AN EASY TASK. AS A MOM, TENDING TO YOUR TODDLER BETTER WHILE TRYING TO MEET YOUR WORK AND PERSONAL NEEDS MAY SOUND TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE. IT TAKES A LOT OF PRACTICE, PATIENCE, PERSPIRATION, AND PERSISTENCE TO MULTITASK WITHOUT NEGLECTING OTHER NEEDS.
Knowing that toddlers require a lot of our attention and are highly dependent on parents, how do we keep it all together?
Why work-life balance matters
With a good work-life balance, you can have the physical, mental, and emotional energy to give to your toddler to help facilitate development and learning. What’s good about a well-balanced life is that you can enjoy life’s fullness, feel healthier and energetic, cope with stress, prevent work burnout, and feel powered to nurture family relationships and growth.
1 LET GO OF THE GUILT
To let go of guilt fully, stop beating yourself up over choices and circumstances that didn't or won't work out. Believe that everything is okay as long as you’re doing the best that you can with your best intentions for your family and at work.
2 MAKE MORNINGS MOTIVATING
Pressure and the feeling that you need to rush or clock in to work as soon as you wake up surely don’t start mornings well as they don’t give you enough downtime to gear up and plan your day. To avoid this, start planning your to-do list and do time blocking ahead of time.
3 CREATE & ORGANIZE A FAMILY CALENDAR
Making time for your family, especially for your toddler, is critical both during weekdays and weekends. A family calendar may include due dates of bills, a list of school and family events or activities, birthdays, and many more. This way, you can keep track of the important family moments you shouldn’t miss.
4 BE AWARE
Awareness means being able to identify swiftly if there’s something that has to be taken care of immediately. This also means extending grace to yourself when you feel like you’ve made a wrong move or heeding what your body or mind needs.
5 COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR EMPLOYER
To keep boundaries, it’s crucial to communicate with your HR representative or employer regarding your negotiables and non-negotiables between personal or family life and work. However, it’s crucial to align first with your arrangement with your company and know how much time you can take off. By knowing such information, you can further justify your proposal terms, gauge their feasibility, and identify alternatives that’ll allow you and your company to meet halfway.
6 LIMIT DISTRACTIONS
Let’s admit it, it’s difficult to stay focused when non-urgent or not-so-important undertakings keep stealing our attention—may they be beeping devices or other non-priority tasks. You may consider setting time limits when checking emails or making calls and reducing screen time to maximize physical moments.
7 REST & REJUVENATE
A refreshing and unrushed rest allows you to recharge, take care of your personal needs, and gear up for another long day as a working mom. You can do this by making time for your hobbies or leisure activities, skincare routine, exercising, regularly getting a good night’s sleep, and many more. If you feel pressured to look after your children in your downtime, what’s good is that you can also take them with you, and share your personal leisure moments with them. As you hit the gym with your toddler, consider visiting play gym for babies, too.
Rest is never a waste of time, so make sure to keep it a priority. Without enough rest, it’s hard to be effective in the things that you do and manage your time better.
THE BOTTOM LINE
As a working mom, it’s not easy to balance everything at once. There will always be days when we feel we won’t be enough. And that’s okay, as long as you do your best.
Instead of feeling stuck, appreciate yourself more often, rest if you must, and don't miss celebrating little joys as a career woman and a mom. You can also consider the tips above to help you balance work and life.
THE HOLIDAYS ARE OVER & IT'S TIME TO GET BACK TO BASICS
SANDWICH ON A STICK
THE KIDS CAN HAVE FUN WITH THIS ONE!
EASY TO MAKE:
Just throw all the ingredients on a skewer and you’re done.
TONS OF VARIETY:
Challenge the kids to create a new one each time for variety.
KID FRIENDLY:
Putting things on a skewer makes even old favorites into something new and exciting to try.
Kids love that!
healthy family bites
One of the biggest challenges for families is to find foods that appeal to kids AND are at least somewhat healthy.
Here are a few easy, kid-friendly ideas for a healthier 2025.
SOME INGREDIENTS TO TRY:
Bread, cut into cubes
Luncheon meats
Cheese cubes
Organic fruits, such as grapes and apples
Organic leaf lettuce
Organic veggies, such as cucumber and tomato
Four-inch pieces of wooden skewer
Dipping sauces as needed for your combination of ingredients
AND peanut butter-based sandwiches have never been so much fun
BROCCOLI TATOR TOTS
INGREDIENTS
2 russet potatoes, peeled, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
cold water
2 cups broccoli florets
1 large egg
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/8 tsp salt
1/8 tsp pepper
1/8 tsp garlic powder
PREHEAT OVEN TO 400 DEGREES
IN LARGE STOCKPOT cover potatoes with cold water. Cover and bring to boil over high heat. Reduce to low and simmer 3 minutes. Add broccoli; don’t stir.
COVER AND COOK 4-5 minutes, or until tender.
DRAIN
IN LARGE BOWL mix egg, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper and garlic powder until just combined.
IN FOOD PROCESSOR pulse potatoes and broccoli 8-10 times until finely grated. Add to breadcrumb mixture and stir to combine.
USE TABLESPOON to scoop potato mixture into 40 mounds.
SHAPE EACH into oval and place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
BAKE 10 minutes
FLIP AND BAKE additional 10 minutes, or until golden brown.
FROZEN CREAMSICLE BITES
INGREDIENTS
1 mandarin orange vanilla Greek yogurt sprinkles
PLACE one piece of parchment paper on baking sheet that fits in freezer.
PEEL AND SEPARATE mandarin into individual slices.
PLACE one big scoop yogurt in small bowl.
DIP EACH mandarin slice in yogurt, covering about half of each slice.
PLACE individual mandarin slices on parchment paper.
ADD sprinkles.
FREEZE at least 1 hour or overnight if adding to lunchboxes.
EARTHY GRAIN BOWL WITH PROSCIUTTO KALE GRILLED
CHEESE
ELEVATE LUNCH with comforting ingredients
1 cup baby arugula
1 teaspoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon lemon juice salt, to taste
1 cup cooked farro
2 tablespoons pesto
3/4 cup cooked squash
4 mozzarella bocconcini balls, halved
2 slices Prosciutto di Parma PDO, halved
In mixing bowl, toss arugula, olive oil, lemon juice and salt, to taste.
Transfer to serving bowl; if packing for lunch, transfer to plastic container.
In another bowl, combine cooked farro and pesto; toss to coat. Transfer farro to serving bowl or plastic container next to arugula.
Top farro with squash and mozzarella bocconcini balls. Drape prosciutto next to squash.
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 garlic clove, smashed
4 cups (about 1/2 bunch) Tuscan kale, cut into ribbon salt, to taste
1/2 lemon, juice only
2 tablespoons salted butter, softened
4 slices sourdough sandwich bread
2⁄3 cup (about 2 oz) finely grated Grana Padano PDO cheese, divided
2/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
In large skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Add garlic; cook until golden and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Add kale; cook and stir until slightly wilted and dark green, 2-3 minutes. Season lightly with salt, to taste, and lemon juice. Remove to plate.
Wipe skillet clean. Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread, dividing evenly. Place two slices, buttered sides down, into skillet over medium-low heat. Onto each slice, divide half the Grana Padano; top with half the mozzarella.
Find more comforting fall meal ideas by visiting distinctlydeliciouslyeuropean.eu
Cook until cheese is melted and bottom is golden, 6-7 minutes. Add half the kale to one slice and close sandwich. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
CATERPILLAR SANDWICH SPICED PINEAPPLE SKEWERS
TAKE BACK BUSY SCHOOL DAYS with simplicity &
creativity
2 slices whole-wheat bread
mayonnaise, divided
1 slice Kretschmar American Cheese
2 slices Kretschmar Off the Bone Ham
1 leaf iceberg lettuce
1 cherry tomato
1 carrot, shaved
1 slice Kretschmar Provolone Cheese black decorating gel
On two slices whole-wheat bread, spread thin layer of mayonnaise on each.
Lay American cheese, ham and lettuce leaf on one bread slice then top with other bread slice.
Using biscuit cutter, punch four holes into sandwich, removing crust from sandwich, then set aside.
Using toothpick or knife, poke two holes into cherry tomato. Insert small cores of carrot into tomato for “antennae.”
Using pastry tip, cut “eyes” out of provolone cheese. Cut out sliver of provolone cheese for “mouth.”
Dab mayo on back of “eyes” and “mouth” then attach to cherry tomato.
Use black decorating gel to add tiny dots to eyes for pupils; set aside.
Place four mini sandwich circles on plate to form caterpillar body then place cherry tomato face at one end.
8-10 stainless steel or wooden skewers
16 ounces pineapple,
1 1/2 pounds Kretschmar Spiced Pineapple Ham
1/2 cup Hawaiian-style barbecue sauce
1 green bell pepper
1 red bell pepper
1 small red onion
1/4 cup canola oil
1 teaspoon salt black pepper, to taste oil, for grates
Prepare skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak in water 30 minutes.
Heat grill to 300 F.
Trim and cut pineapple and ham steak into 1-inch cubes, 1/2inch thick, and lay on paper towel to pat dry before placing in mixing bowl. Add barbecue sauce to bowl. Toss to combine.
Cut bell peppers and red onion into equal-sized, 1-inch cubes. Place in small bowl and coat with canola oil, salt and black pepper, to taste.
To assemble skewers: Alternate threading ham, pineapple, bell peppers and onion onto skewers then place on baking sheet.
Using paper towel, apply oil to grill grates or grill pan then place skewers on grill uncovered, turning every few minutes until charred, no longer than 6-7 minutes.
HOMEMADE MEALS to tackle takeout cravings!
Many busy weeknights come down to one decision for frazzled families: cook at home or give in to takeout cravings. Instead of stressing over a decision, enjoy the best of both worlds and make Asian-inspired dishes from the comfort of your own kitchen. Fresh Express Hot or Cold Salad and Noodle Meal Kits offer two meal options in every bag – hot or cold – so you can make your salad, your way. Available in Teriyaki, Asian Sweet Ginger and Korean Sesame flavors, they’re the perfect inspiration for making takeout-style dishes at home.
MARINATED TERIYAKI STEAK WITH NOODLE SALAD
TERIYAKI TOFU BOWLS
1/2 cup dark soy sauce
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
1/2 cup unsalted chicken stock
1 pound flank steak
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 bag (16.9 oz) Fresh Express Hot or Cold Teriyaki Salad and Noodle Meal Kit
In saucepan, add soy sauce, brown sugar, Sriracha sauce and chicken stock; bring to simmer while whisking. Simmer 4 minutes.
Cool mixture down until cool to touch, about 20 minutes.
Slice steak into thin strips and place in bowl. Pour marinade over steak and marinate for 1 hour.
In large pan over medium-high heat, stir-fry steak 2 minutes.
Remove steak from pan and allow to rest.
In same pan used for steak, add oil and cook hot or cold kit according to instructions on bag.
Add steak back to pan and stir to incorporate.
Garnish with toppings from hot or cold kit and serve.
Visit freshexpress.com/hot-or-cold to discover more than 300 fresh recipes and find a store near you.
1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
1 tablespoon minced garlic
2 teaspoons white pepper
2 teaspoons Chinese five-spice
1/3 cup neutral oil
1 pkg (16 oz) extra-firm tofu, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1 bag (16.9 oz) Fresh Express Teriyaki Hot or Cold Salad and Noodle Meal Kit
In bowl, whisk vinegar, dark soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic, white pepper and Chinese five-spice until combined.
Slowly pour oil into mixture while whisking vigorously. Place cut tofu in mixture and allow to sit 15 minutes.
Bring large sauté pan to medium-high heat and place tofu in, turning when crust forms.
When tofu is finished, set aside and prepare hot or cold salad and noodle meal kit.
Serve with tofu on top of hot or cold salad and noodle meal kit.
Find more ways to take care of your pets at Culinary.net or eLivingtoday.com
After a long day at work or an eventful weekend, don’t just treat yourself to a delicious dessert – make sure you’re treating your pets, too. These homemade dog treats are easy to make with organic ingredients so you can show your pets some love while feeling confident that you aren’t putting their health in jeopardy.
Gather just a few ingredients and cute dog-shaped ice molds (like paws or bones) to give Fido the attention he deserves. The best part: these treats keep well in the freezer, meaning you can make a bigger batch to stay stocked up on your furry friends’ new favorite treat.
Peanut Butter Banana Paw-sicle
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tbsp organic peanut butter (no salt added, no xylitol)
1 medium ripe banana
In blender, blend Greek yogurt, peanut butter and banana until smooth.
Place silicone molds on baking tray to prevent spills. Fill molds with blended mixture and freeze 3 hours, or until firm.
Store in freezer-safe container or zip-top bags.
Berry Good Dog Bones
10 fresh strawberries
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons raw honey
Remove stems from strawberries and slice in half. In blender, blend strawberries, Greek yogurt and honey until smooth.
Place silicone molds on baking tray to prevent spills. Fill molds with blended mixture and freeze 3 hours, or until firm.
Store in freezer-safe container or zip-top bags.
SUDOKU
WORD SEARCH
ANAGRAM CROSSWORD
YOUR HEALTH Horoscope!
ARIES Brace yourself for some high drama this winter. So as not to lose your balance, stay adhered to your health routine - especially exercise!
TAURUS It's time to hold on to what makes you feel secure and not let go! If you sense conflict, give yourself the benefit of isolation and distance. Pay close attention to what your body is telling you.
CANCER To keep yourself healthy, both physically and emotionally, don't skimp on the physical exercise. Make it a priority to get some exercise that invigorates you, whether that's walking, running, lifting weights or even gardening. Keep moving!
LEO Pay attention to conflict and try to use it to your benefit. With your nature, this can be a challenge. When faced with a conflict, ask yourself what is your desired result? A little bit of forethought can mean the difference between a breakTHROUGH and a breakDOWN.
VIRGO Share your feelings with the people you love. Rather than staying "safe" behind your stance of self-assuredness, confide in others, even if you think it will make you or them uncomfortable. Relationships that are worthwhile can survive the occasional confrontation. Breathe deeply and collect your thoughts before you speak.
LIBRA Rather than blurting out what you think and expecting to feel resolved, take your frustrations to the gym, or go on a run, go swimming or take a bike ride. Seek satisfaction in sorting thruogh your own feelings - without necessarily expressing them to another person. Try this.
SCORPIO Keep your emotional nature in check by grounding yourself through positive "earthbound" activities. This is a time when you may feel even more emotional than usual. Avoid alcohol, as you are likely to be fighting depression during this time.
SAGITTARIUS Watching yourself take initiative will give your ego something to smile about. Your ability to undercut the sentimental with a strong sense of purpose will make you feel as if your personal power is on a wing. When emotional truth feels like the ultimate truth, opt for a hot bath and contemplate your more sensitive side.
CAPRICORN There is apt to be an emotional "mess" at this time and you must resist the urge to "clean it up." Take care not to shut down from the emotional tension you feel. Regular exercise and a healthier diet will help you stay emotionally flexible and centered.
AQUARIUS — Cut back on your social obligations and make decisions based on what works for you. Your tendency to help out friends is something to limit at this time as you draw the focus around yourself and meet your own needs time is your most valuable asset. Use your time to get exercise and rest, and try to prepare healthy meals at home.
PISCES Your emotional nature will be aroused. There is no reason you can't have a few days of being emotionally "down in the dumps," but be sure to simultaneously pamper yourself with well-balanced meals and some physical activity you enjoy. Try to experience your emotions (rather than your normal tendency to "wallow" in your emotions).
ANSWERS
ON PG 23
Tiny piece of atmospheric pollutant
by Jessica Walker
improvement project or repair (and I think you have!) you've likely hesitated, thinking you could tackle those projects yourself. You promised yourself you’d get around to doing it "this weekend" (or next...or in the spring...or...) and convinced yourself you didn’t need to hire someone. This sometimes works out, but often does not, and may end up costing you more than if you'd call a handyman.
But who to call?..."I know a guy!" ;-)
His name is Gary Loy and he is a "Jack of All Trades" in every sense of the phrase. Gary has the uncanny ability to fix, build, install almost anything his gift is also in knowing when he needs to call in a skilled colleague to make sure a facet of a job gets done right. Though his resourcefulness and willingness to take on a challenge is unrivaled, he knows when to cry "uncle!" and proclaim, "I know a guy!" And he does. Gary is a lifetime member of the Alamance community and he "knows a guy" (or 100 guys).
The cleverly chosen business name “I Know a Guy” is a nod to his wife and her home state of New Jersey. In their early days together, if he found himself pressed for time to complete a household task and she had her heart set on it, she’d teasingly remind him, “In Jersey, everyone knows a guy, so don’t you worry about it.” The Jersey-shaming always motivated him to take action, no matter how difficult the task. Today he is (begrudgingly?) thankful for his wife's ribbing. It's all in good fun.
Gary’s roots run deep in the charming expanse of southern Alamance County, affectionately dubbed by locals as South LA. He hails from an impressive lineage of engineer-minded people a lineage enriched with the spirit of innovation and a fierce determination to build or mend just about anything. This heritage emerged from necessity and a magnificent passion for creation, stemming from the belief that life is best spent with hands busy at work. Among his ancestors is the renowned Solomon Loy, a local potter celebrated in the pottery world.
Gary reflects, “Out here, if you didn’t have the money to buy a new mower or log splitter, you simply salvaged parts from something that had seen better days and built one yourself.”
Gary’s father owned a clearing and grading company, and both Gary and his older brother helped out driving dump trucks and the loader, and repairing equipment.
As a young man starting a family, Gary drove a truck, delivering furniture across the county for a local trucking company. He also worked with the Ronnie Sox race team in the early 1990s driving the tractor trailer, building engines, and as acting crew chief. His desire to spend more time with his family led to Gary accepting a job with Volvo Trucks in Greensboro, where he worked with designers in the research department.
“I learned a lot from those guys,” Gary says, “and it was fun driving on the test tracks.”
Gary later transitioned into working as a mechanic on 18-wheelers and remained in this field for nearly 30 years.
“I really enjoy mechanics," he tells me. "The way an engine and systems operate together is fascinating and makes a lot of sense. Sometimes, though, it can be frustrating when you can’t see why something isn’t working or why something is behaving unexpectedly. It becomes a puzzle that I have to solve.”
FUN FACTS ABOUT GARY
He has a real love for history, and brings such enthusiasm to discussions on the topic!
"His thoughtful insights on local history always add so much to conversations," his wife says. "People love to hear him talk about it because he is so passionate on the topic. He holds such reverence for all that our local historian, the late Walter Boyd, did for the preservation of that rich history."
If the name Walter Boyd rings a bell for you, it should! If you've been reading Burlington Magazine over the past 13+ years, Walter's articles have been a staple and still are.
Gary also enjoys a lifelong hobby of working on and building hit-and-miss engines. If you don’t know what these are, just think of those old engines you might have seen in an old movie, running a printing press or an ice cream cooler. This little nugget about Gary helps us understand Gary's fascination and thirst for anything historic.
Gary expounds upon this, saying, “People used these [hit-and-miss engines] to run everything mechanical in their homes and on their farms, and what’s amazing about this early 1900s technology is how many things could be operated with one engine. Simplicity at its finest.”
Gary has yet another hobby: flying! As in piloting his own plane. He earned his pilot's license in the early 2000s, bought a Cessna 150 to play around in for a few years, then bought an experimental aircraft kit (otherwise known as an ultralight) and spent over a year assembling it. No need to re-read that...you read it right!
“Building that ultralight was one of the most challenging things I ever did," he recalls. "I also had the most fun doing it. I had to build the wings, the fuselage, install all the instruments, find the right place for the gas tank, and buy the right sized engine. Then after I put it all together I had to try it out.”
He laughs out loud at hearing his own recollection.
“I would say that being the aero-space engineer AND test pilot was, hands down, the most interesting thing I have ever done and lived to tell about it!”
Gary sold his Cessna after some pressure from his wife. "She complained that it wasn’t fair that I had two airplanes and she didn’t even have a garden shed,” he says lightheartedly. He kept his ultralight and still flies it today. So if you happen to be outside on a nice day and hear something that sounds like a giant weed-eater in the air...look up...and give a wave...it’s probably our handyman.
Why am I writing this article about a local handyman?
Gary has helped with my properties (and saved my butt!) many times over this past year. He has helped with simple jobs like replacing a garbage disposal, and more intricate jobs like managing an extensive punch list with lots of complications.
Gary can also handle small grading jobs, dirt moving, gravel driveway reconditioning, bush hogging, backhoe work and more. And if he can't..."he knows a guy..."
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Spring is just around the corner
There was a time when life felt simpler — when a warm summer afternoon meant wandering into the family garden, reaching for a sun-ripened tomato and plucking it straight from the vine. The scent of the earth clung to our hands as we bit into the juicy flesh. It wasn’t just food, it was the taste of home, of nature’s perfection. At WindChime Realty, we believe in that kind of homegrown goodness — fresh, non-GMO, and healthy — because the best things in life should always be down to earth. Here's to a healthier, happier and prosperous 2025.
