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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!
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
Origins & History of NC County Names
ALAMANCE Formed in 1849 from Orange. Derived from Alamance Creek, on the banks of which was fought the battle between Governor Tryon and the Regulators. It is the name of an Indian tribe which dwelt in that locality.
ALEXANDER Formed in 1847 from Iredell, Caldwell, and Wilkes. Named in honor of William J. Alexander of Mecklenburg County, member of the Legislature and Speaker of the House of Commons.
ALLEGHANY Formed in 1859 from Ashe. Name derived from an Indian tribe in the limits of North Carolina.
ANSON Formed in 1749 from Bladen, in honor of Lord George Anson, a celebrated English admiral who circumnavigated the globe.
ASHE Formed in 1799 from Wilkes, in honor of Samuel Ashe of New Hanover.
AVERY Formed in 1911 from Mitchell, Watauga and Caldwell, in honor of Colonel Waightstill Avery of Revolutionary fame, Attorney General of NC 1777—1779.
BEAUFORT Formed in 1705 from Bath. Beaufort was first called PAMPTECOUGH, the name being changed about 1712. Named for Henry Somerset, Duke of Beaufort, also one of the Lords Proprietors.
BERTIE Formed in 1722 from Bath. Named in honor of James and Henry Bertie, one of the Lords Proprietors.
BLADEN 1934 from Bath. Named in honor of Martin Bladen, member of the Board of Trade, which had charge of colonial affairs.
BRUNSWICK 1864 from New Hanover and Bladen. Named in honor of the famous House of Brunswick at the time of the marriage of Princess Augusta, daughter of King George II, to Fredrick William, Duke of Brunswick.
BUNCOMBE Formed in 1791 from Burke and Rutherford, in honor of Colonel Edward Buncombe, revolutionary soldier was at the Battle of Germantown.
BURKE 1777 from Rowan, in honor of Dr. Thomas Burke, member of the Continental Congress and governor of NC.
CABARRUS Formed in 1792 from Mecklenburg, in honor of Stephen Cabarrus, of Edenton, several times a member of the Legislature, and often a Speaker of the House of Commons.
CALDWELL Formed in 1841 from Burke and Wilkes, in honor of Joseph Caldwell, the first president of the University of NC.
CAMDEN Formed in 1777 from Pasquotank in honor of Englishmen, Charles Pratt, Earl of Camden, one of the strongest friends of the Americans in the British Parliament.
CARTERET Formed in 1722 from Bath, in honor of Sir John Carteret, afterwards Earl Granville, one of the Lords Proprietors.
CASWELL Formed in 1777 from Orange and named in honor of Richard Caswell.
CATAWBA In 1842 from Lincoln, named after a tribe of Indians which dwelt in this section of the state.
CHATHAM Formed in 1770 from Orange, in honor of the great Englishmen who won for England all of French America: William Pitt, Earl of Chatham.
CHEROKEE 1839 from Macon, named after an Indian tribe which still dwells in that section of the state.
CHOWAN Formed in 1672 from Albemarle, named for Indian tribe dwelling in the area when the English first came to NC.
CLAY Formed in 1861 from Cherokee, in honor of the great orator and statesmen, Henry Clay.
CLEVELAND Formed in 1841 from Rutherford and Lincoln, in honor of Colonel Benjamin Cleveland.
COLUMBUS Formed in 1808 from Bladen and Brunswick, in honor of the discoverer of the new world, Christopher Columbus.
CRAVEN Formed in 1712 from Bath, in honor of William, Lord Craven, one of the Lords Proprietors of Carolina.
CUMBERLAND Formed in 1754 from Bladen, in honor of William Augustus, Duke of Cumberland, second son of King George II.
CURRITUCK Formed in 1672 from Albemarle. Named after an Indian tribe.
DARE Formed in Currituck, Tyrrell and Hyde. Named in honor of Virginia Dare, the first English child born in America.
DAVIDSON Formed in 1822 from Rowan. Named in honor of General William L Davidson, a soldier of the Revolution who was killed at the battle of Cowan’s Ford.
DAVIE Formed in 1836 from Rowan. Named in honor of William R. Davie.
DUPLIN Formed in 1749 from New Hanover. Named in honor of George Henry, Lord Duplin, an English nobleman.
DURHAM Formed in 1881 from Orange and Wake. Named after the town of Durham, a thriving manufacturing city at the time.
EDGECOMB Formed in 1732 from Bath, in honor of Sir Richard, Baron Edgecombe, English nobleman and lord of the treasury.
FORSYTH Formed in 1849 from Stokes. Named in honor of Captain Benjamin Forsyth, of Stokes County. In The War of 1812 he led a march to Canada, where he was killed in battle.
FRANKLIN Formed in 1779 from Bute. Named in honor of great philosopher and statesman, Benjamin Franklin.
GASTON Formed in 1846 from Lincoln. Named in honor of Judge William Gaston.
GATES Formed in 1779 from Hertford. Named in honor of General Horatio Gates, who commanded the American Army at the Battle of Saratoga.
GRAHAM Formed in 1872 from Cherokee. Named in honor of Governor William Graham.
GRANVILLE Formed in 1746 from Edgecomb. Named in honor of Carteret, Earl Granville, who owned Granville District and was Prime Minister under King George II.
GREENE Formed 1799 from Glasgow and Craven. Named in honor of General Nathaniel Greene, Washington's “righthand man.” Next to Washington, General Greene is regarded as the greatest soldier of the Revolution.
GUILFORD Formed 1770 from Rowan and Orange. Named in honor of Francis, Earl of Guilford, an English nobleman. He was the father of Lord North (Prime Minister under King George III) during The Revolution; afterward became Earl of Guilford.
HALIFAX Formed in 1758 from Edgecombe. Named in honor of George, Earl of Halifax, president of the board of trade, which had control of the colonies before the Revolution.
HARTNETT Formed in 1855 from Cumberland. Named in honor of Cornelius Hartnett HAYWOOD Formed in 1808 from Buncombe in honor of John Haywood, a popular treasurer of the State for 40 years.
HENDERSON Formed in 1838 from Buncombe. Named in honor of Leonard Henderson, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of NC, and his brother Archibald Henderson, member of Congress and a lawyer.
HERTFORD Formed in 1759 from Chowan, Bertie and Northampton. Named in honor of Frances Seymour Conway, Earl of Hertford, an English nobleman.
HOKE Formed in 1911 from Cumberland and Robeson. Named in honor of Robert F. Hoke, Carolina Major-General in the Confederate States Army.
HYDE Formed in 1705 from Bath. Called WICKHAM until about 1712. Named Hyde in honor of Edward Hyde, Earl of Clarendon, one of the Lords Proprietors.
IREDELL Formed in 1788 from Rowan. Named in honor of James Iredell, of Edenton, one of the foremost lawyers in the state. Appointed in 1790 as a judge of the Supreme Court of the United States.
JACKSON Formed in 1851 from Haywood and Macon. Named in honor of Andrew Jackson, who won the brilliant victory over the British at New Orleans, in 1815, and was twice elected President of the U.S. JOHNSTON Formed in 1746 from Craven. Afterwards parts of Duplin and Orange
were added. Named in honor of Gabriel Johnston, governor of NC 1734 to 1752.
JONES Formed in 1907 from Chatham and others. Named in honor of Robert E Lee, the confederate general.
LENOIR Formed in 1791 from Dobbs and Craven. Named in honor of William Lenoir, a hero of the battle of Kings Mountain.
LINCOLN Formed in 1779 from Tryon. Named in honor of General Benjamin Lincoln, a distinguished general of The Revolution.
MACON Formed in 1828 from Haywood. Named in honor of Nathaniel Macon.
MADISON Formed in 1851 from Buncombe and Yancey. Named in honor of James Madison, fourth President of the U.S.
MARTIN Formed in 1774 from Halifax and Tyrrell. Named in honor of Josiah Martin, the last royal governor of North Carolina.
MCDOWELL Formed in 1842 from Rutherford and Burke. Named in honor of Colonel Joseph McDowell, an active officer of The Revolution.
MECKLENBURG Formed in 1762 from Anson. Named in honor of Princess Charlotte of Mecklenburg, Queen of George III, King of England.
MITCHELL Formed in 1861 from Yancey, Watauga, Caldwell, Burke, and McDowell, in honor of Dr Elisha Mitchell, professor in the University of NC. During an expedition on the highest peak east of the Rocky Mountains, the peak was named for him. Dr. Mitchell was killed when he fell from a high peak and was buried on top of Mt. Mitchell, the mountain named in his honor.
MONTGOMERY Formed in 1779 from Anson. Named in honor of the brave General Richard Montgomery, who lost his life at the battle of Quebec in 1775 while trying to conquer Canada.
MOORE Formed in 1784 from Cumberland. Named in honor of Captain Alfred Moore, of Brunswick, a soldier of The Revolution, and afterwards a judge of the Supreme Court of the United States.
NASH Formed in 1777 from Edgecombe. Named in honor of General Frances Nash, a soldier of the Revolution who was killed while fighting at Germantown. A monument in his honor was erected at the Guilford battleground near Greensboro.
NEW HANOVER Formed in 1729 from Bath. Named after Hanover, a country in Europe whose ruler became King of England with the title of George I.
NORTHAMPTON Formed in 1741 from Bertie. Named in honor of George, Earl of Northampton, an English nobleman.
ONSLOW Formed in 1734 from Bath. Named in honor of Arthur Onslow, for his more than 30 years as Speaker of the House of Commons, British Parliament.
ORANGE Formed in 1752 from Granville, Johnston and Bladen. Named in honor of William Orange, who became King William III of England.
PAMLICO Formed in 1872 from Craven and Beaufort. Named after the sound of the same name, which was the name of a tribe of Indians in eastern North Carolina.
PASQUOTANK Formed in 1672 from Albemarle. Named for a tribe of Indians in eastern Carolina.
PENDER Formed in 1875 for New Hanover. Named in honor of General William Pender of Edgecombe County, a brave confederate soldier who was killed at the Battle of Gettysburg.
PERQUIMANS Formed in 1692 from Albemarle. Named after a tribe of Indians.
PERSON Formed in 1791 from Caswell. Named in honor of General Thomas Person, revolutionary patriot.
PITT Formed in 1760 from Beaufort. Named in honor of William Pitt.
Fun Facts about our history
Named in honor of John Stanly, member of the legislature, and several times Speaker of the House of Commons.
STOKES Formed in 1789 from Surry. Named in honor of Colonel John Stokes, a brave soldier of The Revolution.
SURRY Formed in 1771 from Rowan. Named in honor of Lord Surrey, prominent member of parliament.
TRANSYLVANIA Formed in 1861 from Henderson and Jackson. The name is derived from two Latin words “trans”(across) and “sylva” (woods).
TYRRELL Formed in 1729 from Albemarle. Named in honor of Sir John Tyrrell, at one time one of the Lords Proprietors.
POLK Formed in 1855 from Rutherford and Henderson. Named in honor of Colonel William Polk, who rendered distinguished services in the Battle of Germantown, Brandywine and Eutaw, all of which he was wounded during.
RANDOLPH Formed in 1779 from Guilford. Named in honor of Peyton Randolph, of Virginia, the president of the First Continental Congress.
RICHMOND Formed in 1779 from Anson. Named in honor of Charles Lennox, Duke of Richmond, principal Secretary of State in William Pitt II Administration.
ROBESON Formed in 1786 from Bladen. Named in honor of Colonel Thomas Robeson, a soldier of The Revolution.
ROCKINGHAM Formed in 1785 from Guilford. Named in honor of Charles Wentworth, Marquis of Rockingham, leader of the party in the British Parliament that advocated American independence.
ROWAN Formed in 1753 from Anson. Named in honor of Matthew Rowan, a prominent leader before The Revolution, and for the short time after the death of Gov. Gabriel Johnston, acting governor.
RUTHERFORD Formed in 1779 from Tryon and Burke. Named in honor of General Griffith Rutherford, one of the most prominent of the Revolutionary patriots.
SAMPSON Formed in 1784 from Duplin and New Hanover. Named in honor of Colonel John Sampson, member of Governor Martin's Council.
SCOTLAND Formed in 1899 from Richmond. Named after the country of Scotland, the northern part of the island of Great Britain. Many people of this county are descendants of Scottish Highlanders.
STANLY Formed in 1841 from Montgomery.
UNION Formed in 1842 from Anson and Mecklenburg. Democrats wanted to name it for one of their leaders (Andrew Jackson) and Whigs for one of theirs (Henry Clay). "Union" was a compromise.
VANCE Formed in 1881 from Granville, Warren and Franklin in honor of Zebulon B. Vance, The Great War Governor.”
WAKE Formed in 1770 from Johnston, Cumberland and Orange. Named in honor of Governor Tryon's wife, whose maiden name was Wake.
WARREN Formed in 1779 from Bute and Granville. Named in honor of General Joseph Warren, a brave Massachusetts soldier who died at the Battle of Bunker Hill.
WASHINGTON Formed in 1799 from Tyrrell, in honor of George Washington, first U.S. president.
WATAUGA Formed in 1849 from Ashe, Wilkes, Caldwell, and Yancey. Named after an Indian tribe.
WAYNE Formed in 1779 from Dobbs and Craven. Named in honor of General Anthony Wayne, one of Washington's most trusted soldiers.
WILKES Formed in 1777 from Surrey and Burke. Named in honor of John Wilkes, an opponent of the Tory party in England.
WILSON Formed in 1855 from Edgecombe, Nash, Johnston and Wayne, in honor of Louis D. Wilson, member of the legislature from Edgecombe County, a soldier of the Mexican War and benefactor of the poor of his native country.
YADKIN Formed in 1850 from Surry. Derived Yadkin River which runs through it. Thought to be an native Indian name.
YANCEY Formed in 1833 from Burke and Buncombe, in honor of Bartlett Yancey, an eloquent orator, member of Legislature, speaker of the State Senate, member of Congress.
STARTING
2025 WITH A CLUTTER-FREE HOME
10 TIPS TO ORGANIZE & SIMPLIFY
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
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.”
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.
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 to you by
CATHRYN 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 Berry Good Dog Bones
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.
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.
SENIOR/TEEN CENTER SENIOR/TEEN CENTER
SCHEDULE SCHEDULE
SENIOR HOURS: SENIOR HOURS:
MONDAY - FRIDAY MONDAY - FRIDAY 8:00 AM - 12:00 AM 8:00 AM - 12:00 AM
TEEN HOURS TEEN HOURS
MONDAY - THURSDAY MONDAY - THURSDAY 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM
The Randolph Room, located on the first floor of the Asheboro Public Library, is Randolph County's treasure trove of historical and genealogical records. Because many items in our collection are one-of-a-kind, the collection is generally non-circulating but visitors are welcome to use materials in-house. Requests to check-out items will be determined on a case-by-case basis within the discretion of the staff. We are currently open Mon-Fri, 9:00a to 5:30p, closed between 12:30 and 1:30 for lunch; also open Sat, 9:00a to 12:30p.
Librarians are also able to provide specialized research assistance by email and by phone. Resources include family files, family histories, specialized books, newspapers, vital records, censuses, government documents, photographs, scrapbooks, maps and more. Online resources include Heritage Quest, Ancestry Library Edition and Historical North Carolina Newspapers.
Go to randolphlibrary.org to get a "starter packet" that guides researchers before they come to the Randolph Room. We want to help you make your research time successful.
The mission of the Randolph Partnership for Children is to ensure strong families with healthy, well-prepared children by galvanizing our community to advocate for and invest in their future. They do this by providing families and educators with access to several great resources and programs that aid in the development and growth of children.
DOLLY
PARTON’S Imagination Library mails a new book each month directly to your child, completely free! The first book your child will receive upon enrollment in the program is “The Little Engine that Could” by Watty Piper. Then, each month, a new age-appropriate book will arrive. The last book your child will receive when they turn 5 years old is “Look Out Kindergarten, Here I Come” by Nancy Carlson. The Imagination Library inspires a lifelong love of reading while ensuring young children have the opportunity to build a personal library at home. Register today! The program is FREE! Find out more:
randolphkids.org/home/families/dolly-partons-imagination-library
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 21
