LEAN Magazine-Fall 2014

HEALTH HAPPINESS JOY TO LIFE

FA L L 2 0 1 4

EAT WILD

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A PUBLICATION OF THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION

BE THANKFUL FIND FALL COLOR HOLIDAY ON A BUDGET

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t h e s h o p p e s at e a s t c h a s e

GO PINK!

the month of october Go pink at your favorite stores and restaurants in october! Join the shoppes at eastchase, Joy to Life and other partners in a month-long celebration of hope, strength and survival. to get your shop pink Guide and complete schedule of events, drop by Guest services or visit theshoppesateastchase.com.

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LIVE LIFE. HEALTH HAPPINESS JOY TO LIFE

HEALTH HAPPINESS JOY TO LIFE

HEALTH HAPPINESS JOY TO LIFE

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S U M M E R 2013

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Farm to table

Eateries THE NEW SOUTHERN PLATE

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DRINK, PADDLE, PLAY

FRESH FOOD LESS STRESS CLOTH DIAPERS’ COMEBACK KEEP SUMMER IN A CAN

LOVE

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MAKE YOUR HOME GREEN LESS STRESS RIGHT NOW EXERCISE ON THE RUN YOUR BEAUTY SLEEP

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FA L L 2 0 14

It’s the little things, isn’t it? The glorious gold and purple shades of autumn, the distinct smell and crackle of the first fire in the fireplace, the smooth, even ridges of the plump, orange pumpkin skin—this time of year provides an opportunity to use all of our senses to really feel, taste and savor the season.

PUBLISHER JTL Publishing EDITOR Jenny Enslen Stubbs WEB EDITOR

Growing up, I always loved to watch as my grandfather drove his big, blue tractor lane by lane through the golden fields in front of our house. My eyes followed as he made hay for his cows to inevitably enjoy during the approaching cold season. And whether it was dove, deer or turkey, we’d often sit as a family (all eight of us) and appreciate a delicious meal made by the bounty of an Alabama acre and the sporting skills of my father and brothers.

Jennifer Stewart Kornegay ART DIRECTION Erika Tracy PROOFREADER Beverly Martin

I know we all have our own stories to tell and favorite events and experiences to look forward to each year. To help you maximize this magical time, our writers have worked hard to share theirs with you.

For instance, ever heard of Alabama’s Fall Color Trail? This sure-toplease path is a way to leaf peep in your own neck of the woods (page 32).

ADVERTISING info@readlean.org CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

De-stress by mindfully giving thanks (page 26), learning how to make your own soap (page 14) or simply by sitting down for a spell and sipping on a delightful glass of Alabama-based and brewed Piper & Leaf tea (page 18).

Jennifer Stewart Kornegay Cheyenne Martin Michele Olson, PhD, FACSM, CSCS

And, oh, the food! Where do we begin? Rediscover your place and your palate by re-experiencing real, foraged food. To put it simply: Rediscover YOU! Bring more health, happiness and joy to your life this season and always. Happy fall, y’all!

Brenda Robertson Dennis Jenny Enslen Stubbs Melissa Tate Witt CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Big Dreamz Creative

CHECK OUT JOYTOLIFE.ORG FOR THE DL ON THE PL8

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COVER Aubrie Moates / Hello Gorgeous Photography Styling by Evan G. Cooper

lean is published quarterly by JTL Publishing. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without permission from the publisher. lean reserves the right to determine the suitability of all materials submitted for publication and to edit all submitted materials for clarity and space. lean is not responsible for damage, loss or any other injury to unsolicited manuscripts and/or unsolicited artwork. This includes, but is not limited to, drawings, photography, transparencies or any other unsolicited material. lean does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial. The publishers do not assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. lean is a news magazine with information on health, fitness, leisure activities and sports. Readers are advised to consult their physicians before participating in any sport or fitness activity or starting any exercise, dietary or nutritional program published in lean.

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Features

GIVE THANKS

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FORAGED FOOD

38

MAGNOLIA SPRINGS 24 FIT FOR KIDS

FALL ISSUE 8

14

A Vitamin a Day

CONTENT

28 LEAN LOVES

Products and Gear

30 ON THE MOVE

Alabama's Fall Color Trail

14 WHOLE LIVING

34 IN BALANCE

16 TO LIFE

36 SKIN DEEP

18 THE DISH

42 GO & DO

22 FORWARD MOTION

46 FISCAL FITNESS

DIY Soaps

Are You Dense?

Tea Time

Major Exercise Mistakes

Spotting a Stroke

Whiten Teeth Naturally

’s Calendar of Events

The Holidays on a Budget

TURKEY, VENISON AND FISH, OH MY! THE DELICIOUS BENEFITS OF EATING FORAGED FOOD You are what you eat. Scary thought, isn’t it? If you eat preservatives, artificial colors, toxins and goodnessknows-what-else, then you’re not going to feel much like celebrating this holiday season. In order to feel whole, we must eat whole. And you don’t get much more natural and complete than eating something picked, plucked or prepared from its barest, most natural form. So let’s talk turkey (and some other good grub)!

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A PUBLICATION OF THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION

Stacy Lyn Harris, mother of seven and advocate for sustainable living, is an Alabama native with three cookbooks, a successful blog (gameandgarden. com), and is a regular television and magazine whole living contributor.

Stacy sat down with me and discussed everything from earthen ovens to family foraging outings.

But what really made my mouth water were the delicious recipes she’s formulated through dedication to family and a love of passing on the importance of living sustainably.

Her advice?

“JUST START WHERE YOU ARE AND TAKE SLOW STEPS TO MORE NATURAL LIVING.” You can do that, right?

BY JENNY ENSLEN STUBBS

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A PUBLICATION OF THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION

Find more of Stacy's recipes in her books Recipes & Tips for Sustainable Living and Happy Healthy Family.

Read more about Stacy and her “10 Tips to Know When Preparing Venison” at readlean.org.

It’s autumn time, and we’ve got a “whole” new way to enjoy some cocoa this season!

CHILI COCOA CRUSTED VENISON WITH BERRY REDUCTION / SERVES 6 FOR VENISON: 1/3 cup coffee grounds 1/4 cup cocoa 2 1/2 tablespoons salt 1 tablespoon brown sugar 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/2 venison loin Olive oil, for browning 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. In a medium-sized bowl, mix coffee grounds, cocoa, salt, brown sugar, cinnamon and cayenne pepper in a bowl. Rub mixture into loin.

3. Heat cast iron skillet to almost smoking. Place loin into skillet and brown on all sides.

4. Place loin in 350 degree oven 4 to 5 minutes. Remove to a cutting board.

Let rest for at least 5 minutes.

5. Slice loins and spoon berry reduction on top. Serve with collard greens.

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FOR BERRY REDUCTION: 1 1/2 cups blackberries 1/2 cup blueberries 1/2 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon) 1/4 cup sugar 1 lemon, juiced Kosher salt, to taste Place blackberries, blueberries, red wine, sugar and lemon juice in a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to simmer and reduce by half. Season with salt.

IMAGES THIS PAGE COURTESY OF STACY LYN HARRIS

That’s right, people! Comfort food can be fresh! And the more homemade, the better.

TURKEY POT PIE / SERVES 8 FOR MEAT: 3 pounds wild turkey 3 tablespoons olive oil Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

HERB PECAN CRUSTED TROUT / SERVES 4 3/4 cups pecans, finely chopped

FOR FILLING:

2 tablespoons rosemary, finely chopped

5 cups chicken stock (homemade if you have it)

1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped and divided

2 tablespoons salt

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 sticks butter, plus extra for seasoning ramekin dishes

1/2 teaspoon pepper

2 cups Vidalia onions, chopped

4 6-ounce trout fillets, skinned

3/4 cup all-purpose flour

Olive oil, for browning

1/4 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons butter, plus more for browning

2 cups medium carrots, diced and blanched for 2 minutes

1 lemon, juiced

1 10-ounce package of frozen peas

1/4 cup white wine

1/2 cup fresh parsley, minced

3 tablespoons capers

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Slice turkey breast into 1-inch thick slices. Pound turkey to 1/4 inch thickness.

Salt and pepper turkey on both sides. In a hot cast iron skillet, pour olive oil and place pounded turkey and brown about 2 minutes per side. Set aside.

2. In a large saucepan, melt butter and sauté onions over medium high heat for 10 minutes or until translucent.

Add flour and cook on low heat for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Add chicken stock slowly to the sauce and continue to stir. Simmer over low heat for about 1 minute or until thick. Add salt, pepper and heavy cream. Then add carrots, peas and parsley. Mix well.

3. Cut cooked turkey into bite-sized pieces and place in pot pie mixture.

4. Butter 8 to 10 ramekin dishes. Pour pot pie filling into dishes. Top with a basic pie crust. Place in oven for 25 minutes or until crust is brown.

1 1/2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

2 cups spinach 2 cups arugula

Don’t think you can catch fresh trout in Alabama? Think again!

Go to readlean.org/magazine and scour ’s Fall 2013 issue to revisit “Catch the Rainbow” about trout fishing in Alabama’s Sipsey Fork.

1. On a plate, combine pecans, rosemary, half the parsley, salt and pepper.

2. Lightly brush one side of fillet with Dijon mustard and press fillet into pecan mixture to adhere. Set aside and proceed with remaining fillets.

3. Heat about 1 tablespoon each of olive oil and butter over mediumhigh heat. Heat oil and place fillets pecan-batter side down in pan and cook for 3 minutes. Flip fillets and cook 2 more minutes, or until flaky and golden. Remove fillets to platter and tent with foil.

4. Once all fillets are cooked, add butter, lemon juice and wine to deglaze the pan. Add capers and bring to boil. Turn off heat and stir in rest of parsley.

5. Prepare plates with greens and top with a fillet. Divide wine sauce evenly among plates.

Vegan, vegetarian or just not into meat? Need something more, shall we say, plant-based? Try this simply sumptuous side dish from Bari Levin as a meat-free addition to your meal. As an avid gardener who serves on the River Region’s Food Policy Council, Bari and her beautiful gardens have been featured in both Southern Living and Organic Gardening magazines.

CORN AND GREEN PEA FRITTERS WITH ARUGULA SALAD SERVES 4 5-6 ounces fresh or frozen green peas

WHAT IS FORAGING? Foraging for food, or food-gathering from a natural or wild source, can hold nutritional, medicinal and environmental benefits. But before you start foraging, learn how to identify plants to make sure they are safe enough (and desirable) for consumption.

Check with the pros in your area about foraging classes offered. Some notable Alabama foragers are Chris Bennett of Hollow Spring Farm, Tim Pfizer in the northern part of the state, and “Southern Herbalist” Darryl Patton, who also offers workshops throughout the Southeast about foraging both plants and wild game.

1/2 bunch parsley, minced

1. Using a knife, remove corn kernels from the cob and place in a large bowl, add green peas, flaxseed egg replacement, cornmeal, flour, chives, red onion, parsley, red pepper and garlic paste.

2 large cloves of garlic, minced or grated and blended into a paste

2. Stir until blended; season with salt and pepper to taste.

2-3 ears of corn 1/4 cup finely chopped chives

1/3 cup finely chopped red onion 2 tablespoons freshly ground flaxseed (mixed with 3 tablespoons warm water, used as a substitute for eggs) 1/2 cup coarse yellow stone ground grits 1/4 cup organic pastry flour 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk 3/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper safflower oil, approx. 5 tablespoons

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3. In large pan, heat a layer of safflower oil, approximately 5 tablespoons, on medium until hot.

4. Drop 1/4 cup of fritter batter into hot oil and pat down to flatten.

7. Cook approximately 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown.

Do not try to flip fritters until they are brown on the bottom and do not stick to the pan.

8. Transfer cooked fritters to a cookie sheet, sprinkle with salt, and keep them warm in a 250-300 degree oven until all of the fritters are done.

SAUCE INGREDIENTS: 4 tablespoons Grapeseed Oil Vegenaise 1 1/2 lemons 1/3 cup finely chopped bread and butter pickles 1 large clove of garlic, minced or grated and blended into a paste 1 1/2 teaspoons finely chopped red onion (or 2-3 finely chopped green onions) 1 bunch parsley, minced 1/2 finely chopped red bell pepper 1 1/2 teaspoons olive oil 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper 1. In a small bowl, combine Vegenaise, lemon juice, bread and butter pickles, parsley, garlic paste, red bell pepper and onion.

2. Stir in olive oil and add salt and pepper; should be served at room temperature.

FOR DRESSING: 4-6 cups arugula 12 sliced cherry tomatoes 1/2 finely diced yellow bell pepper 1/4 cup finely sliced red onion, for garnish 1/4 cup seasoned rice vinegar 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1/4 garlic powder Pinch of sugar 1. While fritters are cooking, place arugula, sliced cherry tomatoes and diced yellow pepper in a large bowl.

2. In a separate bowl, mix together seasoned rice vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder (and sugar, if using).

3. When ready to serve, pour dressing over salad and carefully toss; garnish with red onion.

Even though their judgment isn’t always amazing,

their healthcare is.

Healthcare as amazing as their potential 1600 7TH AVENUE SOUTH BIRMINGHAM, AL 35233 (205) 638-9100 ChildrensAL.org

G WHOLE LIVIN

r u o Y e k a M

p a o S Own

UDS & SAVOR THE S

OF YOUR LABOR

Have you ever read the ingredient label on your soap? Tricolasan. Imidazolidinyl. Dioxane. Diethanolamine. Some of these unpronounceable subthrough your skin. But you don’t have to lather up

Scent-sational

with sodium laurel sulfate, and you don’t have to

To most of us, part of “being clean” is “smelling clean,”

spend $2 per bar either. So how can you save money

hence soap manufacturers widespread use of synthetic

stances are pretty darn toxic and easily absorbed

and be sweet to your skin at the same time? Make

fragrances in their products. Now that you’re making

your own soap. It’s (pretty) easy. It’s cheap. And

your own soap, you can personalize its scent and

you’ll end up with something you’ll feel good about using on yourself and your family.

experiment with added essential oils and other natural elements to find what says “fresh and clean” to you.

Take a big whiff of these appealing aroma ideas: lavender (calming), almond or vanilla extract (yummy), citrus (energizing), cedar or sandalwood (woodsy and manly).

Not a DIY-kinda person? No worries.

There are several great Alabama-based companies making all manner of natural soaps.

Visit readlean.org to find our favorites.

Orange -Thyme Soap THE INVIGORATING ZIP OF CITRUS IS BALANCED WITH THYME’S EARTHINESS. ADAPTED FROM HENRYHAPPENED.COM

MATERIALS:

METHOD: PUT SOAP IN A MICROWAVE-SAFE BOWL AND COOK, ON HIGH, IN 30-SECOND INTERVALS UNTIL COMPLETELY MELTED. CHOP YOUR HERBS AND ZEST SOME ORANGES. YOU’LL WANT ABOUT ONE TABLESPOON OF BOTH ZEST AND THYME FOR EACH CUP OF MELTED SOAP. PREPARE YOUR MOLDS BY LIGHTLY SPRAYING THE INSIDES WITH COOKING SPRAY.

GLYCERIN SOAP — You can find this at craft stores.

ORANGE ZEST AND CHOPPED THYME (about 1 tablespoon of each for each cup of melted soap) FOOD PROCESSOR GLASS MEASURING CUP PLASTIC SPOON OR SCRAPER SOAP MOLDS — You can buy molds at craft stores, but any plastic container will work. Try ice trays, candy molds, small food storage containers, etc.

COOKING SPRAY

LET YOUR MELTED SOAP COOL FOR JUST A BIT, AND THEN ADD THE HERBS AND ZEST. STIR TO KEEP THEM FROM ALL SINKING TO THE BOTTOM. POUR THE STILL-WARM SOAP INTO YOUR MOLDS. LET YOUR SOAP SET AT ROOM TEMPERATURE FOR AN HOUR OR TWO, AND THEN POP IT IN THE FREEZER FOR A FEW MORE HOURS. WHEN IT IS READY, IT SHOULD BE EASY TO GET OUT OF THE MOLDS.

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CHECK OUT EVENTS BENEFITTING JOY TO LIFE DURING BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH IN OUR GO & DO SECTION!

AreYouDENSE? BREAST DENSITY

AND ITS CONNECTION TO BREAST CANCER the CONNECTION

Study after study has shown a

strong link between breast density and breast cancer. In fact, having denser breasts could make you four to five times more likely to develop the cancer. This fact, coupled with the difficulty of differentiating between breast tissue and tumors, makes it even more imperative you stay informed.

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BREASTS ARE NOT CREATED EQUAL. Some have more connective breast tissue while some have more fatty tissue. This is essential information, believe it or not, because how “dense” your breasts are could potentially make

MAMMOGRAM MATERIAL

you more at risk for developing breast cancer.

When you have a mammogram, the attending radiologist is able to determine the density of your breasts.

Dense breast tissue is considered to be made up of more connective tissue (which appears white on a mammogram) and less fat. Because cancer also appears white on a

MEASURING UP

SO WHAT ARE YOUR BI-RADS?

BI-RADS, or Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System, categorize breast density into four categories, ranging from 1 (mostly fatty) to 4 (extremely dense). Eighty percent of women fall in the middle two groups.

mammogram, tumors can remain undetected behind the dense tissue.

But as women get older, the breasts typically become fattier, especially after menopause or during pregnancy.

TALK ABOUT IT.

SOURCE Connections: The Newsletter of Breast Cancer Connections, June 2013, Volume 20, Issue 2

IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS, GO TO YOUR DOCTOR. IN THE JUNE 2013 ISSUE OF CONNECTIONS: THE NEWSLETTER OF BREAST CANCER CONNECTIONS, THEY LIST SOME QUESTIONS YOU MAY WANT TO ASK WHEN SPEAKING WITH YOUR DOCTOR ABOUT BREAST DENSITY. HAS MY BREAST DENSITY EVER BEEN MEASURED?

A NOTE:

HOW DENSE ARE MY BREASTS?

MANY OF US MAY NOT KNOW

WAS THE BI-RADS METHOD USED TO MEASURE MY BREAST DENSITY? IF NOT, CAN YOU EXPLAIN WHICH METHOD WAS USED?

IF WE HAVE DENSE BREASTS OR NOT. ELEVEN STATES HAVE RECENTLY ENACTED LAWS REQUIRING HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS TO INFORM WOMEN WHETHER OR NOT THEY HAVE DENSE BREAST TISSUE.

ALONG WITH A REGULAR MAMMOGRAM, WHAT OTHER SCREENING TESTS SHOULD I CONSIDER? BESIDES BREAST DENSITY, WHAT ELSE MAY PUT ME AT RISK FOR BREAST CANCER? HOW CAN I LOWER MY RISK FOR THE DISEASE?

the dish

Time

TEA

A Huntsville tea company is inviting folks to take the time to savor one of the oldest drinks in the world, one that’s as good as it is good for you.

BY JENNIFER STEWART KORNEGAY

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THE HUNTSVILLE NATIVES SAW TEA AS THEIR WAY TO BE A PART OF THE

The Front Porch Special, a very classic “Southern” tea, is a best seller, as is the Briar Patch Brew, which takes full advantage of North Alabama’s berry bounty.

maker movement.

COFFEE SHOPS ARE A DIME A DOZEN IN MOST AREAS of Alabama, but tea shops? They’re a lot harder to find. But if you’re in the north part of our state, and you “take tea,” you’re in luck: Piper & Leaf, a family owned and operated artisan tea company, is based in Huntsville and is considering branching out with a second shop in Birmingham.

The rest of the state can enjoy Piper & Leaf products too. You can order every tea they make right off their website. The company imports its tea leaves, but the fruits and herbs it adds to create custom tea blends (and amazing flavor combos) are grown in Huntsville, either by Piper & Leaf or by local farmers.

tea is less than half the sugar of a traditional soda.” And it’s real cane sugar, not high fructose corn syrup.

Caleb’s favorite blend is Peaches & Cream.

“It is a fruity tea in a black tea base, and I really like the balance,” he said. “We have something for everyone. Most of our teas are extremely fruity or very light fruit.”

So what if you don’t drink tea? Well, Piper & Leaf’s co-owner Caleb Christopher and his family think you should start, and here’s why. “Tea is really good for you; we don’t market it as a health product. We just want people to enjoy it, but it has many health benefits thanks to the large amount of antioxidants,” he said.

who knew?

We all hear a lot about how healthy green tea is, but all tealeaves offer the same benefits.

Green, white and black tealeaves all actually come from the same plant; the difference comes in how they are processed.

Plus, the extra ingredients Piper & Leaf adds in bring their own benefits. “The echinachia in our Healing Honeysuckle blend is great for the immune system, and there is a lot of vitamin C in many of our teas,” Caleb said. “We do have some sugar in some of our teas, but our standard sweet

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A PUBLICATION OF THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION

The phrase “family owned and operated” is thrown around a lot, but at Piper & Leaf, they mean it. Caleb and Brigette Christopher own Piper & Leaf with Brigette’s brother Connor Knapp and his wife MaryClaire. Brigette and Connor’s three other siblings work for the company as well as Caleb’s six siblings.

“It is really a family affair,” Caleb said.

AL

ma k

er

Find Piper & Leaf at farmers markets around North Alabama, at Pepper Place Market in Birmingham and at events all over the state.

Visit piperandleaf.com to learn more and to order their teas.

Tea

THE TALE OF THE

Caleb, his wife and his brother and sister-in-law are all Huntsville natives and saw tea as their way to be a part of the “maker movement” currently sweeping our state. “We weren’t sure exactly what we wanted to do, but we knew we wanted to be a part of the farmers market scene and this extended family of folks growing things and hand-making things,” Caleb said. They started by making and selling compost and, as an afterthought, sold iced tea in mason jars too. “The compost was a dud, but people loved the tea,” Caleb said. A trip to Boston, where perhaps the biggest “cup” of tea ever was made during the infamous Boston Tea Party, and the discovery of that city’s abundant and “really cool” tea shops helped them make the decision to create their tea company. “We wanted to present fine teas, really good tea, to the South,” Caleb said. They had their first booth at a market in May 2013, and the Piper & Leaf store at Lowel Mill in Huntsville opened in April 2014.

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Images courtesy of Sleepy Fox Photography and White Rabbit Studios

Meet the Family

FORWARD MOTION

BY MICHELE OLSON, PHD, FACSM, CSCS

5 Push your glutes back and up and maintain the convex inward curve in your low spine while you pinch your shoulder blades together to work the muscles in your middle and upper back.

MAJOR EXERCISE MISTAKES HOW TO

1 the fix

UNHINGED DUMBBELL ROWS

FIX

YOUR FORM RENOWNED EXERCISE SCIENTIST MICHELE OLSON GIVES SOME TIPS ON HOW TO EXERCISE THE RIGHT WAY!

mistake:

Bending over with a rounded back and hips tucked under you pulls the spine out of alignment and puts stress on the spinal ligaments causing them to be overstretched.

mistake: Inching your hips skyward as you hold a plank position is quite simply cheating the exercise, decreasing its effectiveness on the abs. It also puts extra stress on your shoulders.

2 the fix Focus on keeping your body in a straight line from your head to your hips to your heels. (Grabbing a friend to serve as drill sergeant can help keep you honest.)

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HIP HIKING PLANKS

Keep in mind it's better to hold perfect form for 20 seconds than it is to do a full minute with incorrect form.

OVERZEALOUS SHOULDER RAISES UN-KNEE-FRIENDLY LUNGES 3 the fix Here’s your chance to cheat without penalty— lifting just to the bust line is as effective as lifting all the way to shoulder level.

4 the fix Take a big enough step so your front heel is about two feet in front of your back knee as it bends toward the floor.

If, as you lower, you find you haven’t given yourself enough space, scoot the front foot forward.

mistake: Taking baby steps when you lunge causes too much sheer stress on the front knee, putting you at risk for tendon strains and, over time, arthritis.

mistake: Flapping your arms too high as you lift your dumbbells to the side “causes your upper arm bone to bang into the cartilage-filled space in the shoulder,” says Olson.

translation: Ouch!

600-POUND HAMSTRING STRETCHES

5 the fix Sit down and take a load off while you reach for your toes. The exact same stretch done from a seated position is much safer.

mistake:

Bending over and letting your entire body weight dangle straight down while reaching for your toes in order to stretch your hamstrings puts about 600 pounds of pressure on the spine for a 140-pound woman.

While you may move in and out of this position in yoga class, holding a stretch like this for 30 to 60 seconds leaves your spinal discs vulnerable to rupture, says Olson.

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A PUBLICATION OF THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION

S F IT F O R K ID

A

VITAMIN A Day Most of us think having a multivitamin every day is part of life—especially during those growing years of childhood. But are they really necessary for children?

ARE THEY ESSENTIAL?

Recently, there’s been a shake-up in the health profession when it comes to vitamins and kids.

Many experts agree daily “essential” vitamins may not be “essential” after all, especially if kids are eating a whole-food, well-rounded diet most of the time.

IN FACT, REAL FOOD IS THE BEST SOURCE FOR ANY VITAMIN.

PICKY EATERS

But what about those picky eaters? Those kids may be getting plenty of vitamins through fortified foods, and too much of a good thing isn’t necessarily good; it can actually be toxic. A recent study done by the Environmental Working Group (www.ewg.org/research/how-much-is-too-much) shows cereals have added nutrients such as vitamin A, zinc and niacin to levels that may be too high for children, especially when taking a multivitamin on top of that dose.

BY MELISSA TATE WITT

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COULD VITAMINS

BE TOXIC?

FOR MANY PARENTS, PROVIDING A MULTIVITAMIN FOR A LITTLE ONE SIMPLY GIVES US PEACE OF MIND. CONSIDER THESE OPTIONS WHEN SELECTING ONE FOR YOUR CHILD:

Many vitamins—especially those marketed towards children—also contain a number of genetically-modified organisms (GMOs), hydrogenated oils, aspartame, aluminum, petroleum-derived artificial colors and more.

These ingredients have been linked to various issues such as hyperactivity, immune system dysfunction, neurological problems and chest conditions. It seems a bit counterintuitive to give your child a supplement to aid in nutrition that could possibly be harmful in so many other ways.

NATURAL SWEETNESS It should be naturally sweet: Avoid sucrose, fructose and sorbitol as well as aspartame and other artificial sweeteners. Natural sweeteners like xylitol and stevia are better options.

DON'T

NATURAL FLAVORS Only natural flavors: Be on the lookout for hydrogenated oils, dyes, artificial flavorings and other additives. Look for natural ingredients such as vanilla and fruit flavorings.

GIVE VITAMINS TO CHILDREN AS TREATS OR REWARDS. ALWAYS KEEP THE BOTTLE OUT OF REACH.

IRON OPTIONAL Iron may not be necessary: Since iron can be harmful if overdosed, discuss if iron is necessary with your child’s doctor before adding it to a supplement.

Do: Ask your physician.

Don’t chuck the bottle quite yet. There are kids who truly need a vitamin and deciding what is best for your child is definitely a discussion to have with your pediatrician.

Your child may be struggling to obtain a certain nutrient—like iron for kids who follow a mostly vegetarian or dairy-free diet— so a multivitamin is still not necessary. Children who are not getting enough to eat, or perhaps are not eating a high-quality diet (such as too many sodas or only fast, overly processed foods) may need a multivitamin. Kids who are extremely active in sports and depleting those food intakes fast may also be in need of extra nutrition. And of course children who suffer from certain medical conditions certainly may need to consider a supplement.

IT'S NOT CANDY It’s not candy: It can be tempting, but don’t use vitamins/supplements as a reward or a special treat.

RE-EVALUATE Re-evaluate: From year to year, your child’s eating habits and activity level may change so be sure to see if his or her vitamin needs do as well.

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A PUBLICATION OF THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION

ways to live better every day

6

Notice your day-to-day world from a point of gratitude and be amazed at all the goodness we take for granted.

Keep a gratitude journal, noting one or more things you are grateful for each day.

Little

thanks, ig B hanges

If you identify something or someone with a negative trait (the cold conference room), switch it in your mind to a positive trait (the conference room with a great view).

Gratitude requires humility, which the dictionary defines as “modest and respectful.” Explore where it fits in your life.

Changes

Give at least one compliment daily. It can be to a person or it can be asking someone to share your appreciation of something else. (“I love how quiet it is in the morning, don’t you?”)

When you find yourself in a bad situation ask: What can I learn?

When I look back on this, without emotion, what will I be grateful for?

Vow not to complain, criticize or gossip for 10 days. If you slip, rally your willpower and keep going. Notice the amount of energy you were spending on negative thoughts and actions.

grow in g gra titud e

Sound genuinely happy to hear from people who call you on the phone. Whether the caller responds with surprise or delight, he’ll know you value speaking with him.

Thanksgiving, for most, is typically a time for food, family, parades and football games, never mind the mental and physical preparations required to tackle Black

Friday and Cyber Monday. With all the work involved in the holiday, it is sometimes hard to find the time to stop and actually do what the holiday instructs us to do:

Give thanks.

Become involved in a cause that is important to you. Donate money or time or talent. By joining in, you’ll gain greater appreciation for the organization, and it will appreciate you more too.

make it happen

In case you were wondering, there does indeed happen to be an app for that, several actually. One such application is called Unstuck. It is free and offers “insight and tools to push through stuck moments to live better every day.”

Although there is something kind of contradictory about relying on an app to connect to the world around us, Unstuck does offer a pretty straightforward 9-point reference for cultivating gratitude in our everyday lives.

BY BRENDA ROBERTSON DENNIS

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Teach children to think about the needs of others by participating in food or toy drives. Make it a regular practice to donate clothing, household goods and toys to charities that provide for families in need.

Discuss with your children what these charities do, whom they serve and why we choose to help them.

i think ,

Teach children to say “ thank

and “I appreciate...”

Have them write simple thank you notes or letters to those who give them gifts. Choose a time to discuss with children things we are thankful for. At bedtime, family devotional or Sunday dinner, have children share one, two or three things/people they are grateful for.

therefore

i Am

Local licensed Professional Counselor Kathy W. Bonds, MS, LPC, has some thoughts on how to help our children approach their world with gratitude. She has been a counselor at Frazer United Methodist Church in Montgomery for the past 10 years and has over 30 years of counseling experience. She has worked with families, children and individuals in private counseling as well as nonprofit agencies and hospitals. is a learned behavior

gratitude

and we need to teach

Bonds says gratitude is a learned behavior and we need to teach our children how to experience it. “Children who are not taught gratitude experience it. often display a sense of entitlement,” she said.

“They have unrealistic expectations about day-to-day life and are easily disappointed [or] have difficulty accepting ‘no’ as an answer.” She says parents can demonstrate a positive attitude about daily life events by modeling gratefulness in their conversations, being polite and pleasant in dealing with others, and showing love and appreciation for the small or simple things of life. Bonds offered these tips to parents trying to help their children understand how gratitude works:

our children how to

you”

Art projects with children can be an opportunity for children to create gifts for others. They can also express thoughts of gratitude on objects to decorate their homes or for others to decorate for the holidays.

Helping children think of those who may be in hospitals, nursing homes or foster care placements can shine the light on our reasons to be grateful during the holidays.

Discussions within families about how they may brighten the holidays of others can bring about a greater sense of gratitude within the family system.

However you choose to do it, walking in the world with a grateful heart can not only reduce stress and improve our relationships, but it can make the world a better place. Teaching our children the value of gratitude at a young age will enrich their lives. So, as we enter the season of planning and rushing, let us also remember to take a moment to breathe and give thanks for our many blessings.

PINK YOUR

walk in the world with a grateful heart

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Gear PRODUCTS &

GET AN EYEFUL OF THESE PRODUCTS AND PLACES WE LOVE.

TAKE A SEAT Bring some sleek style plus a little colorful panache to any space with these simple polished stools from Plenty Design Co-op, a group of designers and craftsmen in Birmingham. Part of the “10 degree series,” these stools are so named because the legs are tapered at 10 degrees, which provides a sturdier base without having to use extra material. Waste not, want not! plentydesigncoop.com

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PILLOW TALK A sofa, chair or bed adorned with one or two of these decorative pillows from Jane Sweet Jane in Prattville is sure to get your guests talking about how stylish you are. Jane Sweet Jane’s simple hand-sewn and hand-painted (using hand-cut stencils) pillows can be ordered in custom sizes and colors and are often embellished with vintage buttons. You can even order a pillow with the likeness of a loved one (or a beloved pet) included in the design. Order online or find Jane’s space at Montgomery Antique Galleries. janesweetjane.com

COMPELLING COMPASSION Each piece of Compelled jewelry by Birmingham jewelry designer Rebekah Blocher is a tiny work of art. Nature- and faith-inspired shapes awash in soft colors are rendered in small handmade pottery pieces attached to leather to form bracelets, necklaces and earrings. But Compelled jewelry’s mission goes beyond making money. A portion of the proceeds from every sale goes to support a different charity or ministry each month.

HANDMADE HATS It’s definitely not your grandma’s crocheted hat! These cute toppers pay homage to vintage knits and will keep you toasty and on trend. Made in Montgomery, each MADCAP hat is unique and hand-knitted using yarn that’s environmentally and morally sound (and is sure to add some impulsive moxie to your mood). Some are made from upcycled and remnant cotton. Look for Auburn and Alabama themed caps this fall! Find them at Welle Studio in Montgomery.

rebekahblocher.com

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IMAGE COURTESY OF JOHN DENNEY,/JOHNDENNEY.COM.

ON THE MOVE

OUTSIDE

AL

e get outside. hav

an adventure.

COLOR

BY JENNIFER STEWART KORNEGAY

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CALLING

Soon, leaves on trees across the top half of our state will be trading their verdant hues for all

variations of scarlet, orange and gold, setting entire hillsides ablaze in brilliant displays of these signature autumn shades. Here are a few favorite spots that always put on a fabulous fall foliage show.

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4z 6 3z 6 1z 2 6 6z

Pit Stop

ON YOUR WAY TO LITTLE RIVER CANYON TO DO SOME LEAF PEEPING, MAKE A PIT STOP

3. gadsden & Little river canyon

1. Oak Mountain State Park

A welcome patch of wilderness right outside Birmingham, this state park (the largest of them all) affords several spots that are pretty simple to reach but still offer stunning views of the oak- and hickory-filled forest’s vibrant patchwork.

Hike the short (2-mile), but steep, trail to springfed Peavine Falls and the Overlook for a perfect vantage point.

2. Talladega Scenic Drive

Get a mountain high at about 2,000 feet on this 26-mile journey on Scenic Route 281, a designated Alabama Scenic Byway. On the southern end, the drive begins at Cheaha State Park and winds its way across and through the foothills of the Appalachians and the Talledega National Forest, boasting one panoramic view after another. The drive is definitely an hour well spent, particularly when the leaves are at their prismatic peak.

32

An autumn afternoon cruise along Alabama’s section of the 93-milelong Lookout Mountain Parkway with the windows down is a first-class ticket to tranquility and a great way to get an eye-full of the kaleidoscope of colors fall brings. Start in Gadsden at Noccalula Falls. This 90-foot cascade marks the spot where legend says a Cherokee princess jumped to her death instead of forsaking her true love.

Drive north to Fort Payne and hit U.S. 176 to snake along the rim of Little River Canyon, one of the deepest gorges east of the Mississippi River, carved over eons by the Little River, the longest river running across a mountaintop in the United States. This natural wonder also includes the thundering 45-foot Little River Falls. Nearby Desoto Falls and the trails at Desoto State Park are worth a look too.

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IN DOWNTOWN GADSDEN FOR A BITE TO EAT, A LITTLE RETAIL THERAPY AND A SIP (OR TWO) OF ALABAMA-BREWED BEER. CHECK OUT THESE SPOTS.

555

The Coffee Well:

This friendly hangout serves delish sandwiches, yummy coffee and even yummier homemade coconut cake. Call ahead and have them pack you a picnic to take up to the Canyon.

THECOFFEEWELL.NET

Frios:

It may be autumn, but it’s still warm enough to enjoy a cool treat. Frios hand-makes a multitude of refreshing popsicle options with the best fruits and dairy products from local farms. Try the blackberry-gingerlemonade.

FRIOSPOPS.COM

Back Forty Beer:

Stop in for some Naked Pig or award-winning Truck Stop Honey Ale when this local brewery’s taproom has them flowing.

BACKFORTYBEER.COM

step in the city

555

DOWNTOWN GADSDEN HOSTS “FIRST FRIDAYS” EVERY (YEP, YOU GUESSED IT) FIRST FRIDAY OF EACH MONTH. BROAD STREET IS BLOCKED OFF, AND SHOPS STAY OPEN LATE FOR THESE EVENTS THAT INCLUDE LOCAL LIVE ENTERTAINMENT, FOOD AND DRINK SPECIALS FROM AREA RESTAURANTS, CLASSIC CAR SHOWS AND MORE.

Plus, First Fridays are free.

4. Russell Cave National Monument

The centerpiece of this 310-acre area in Bridgeport in Alabama’s northeast corner is a small cave that was once home to pre-historic Indians. Today, you can learn about their lives through one of the largest and most complete archeological records of human habitation in the Southeast. The cave itself is open for exploration with a permit from the on-site visitor center. But don’t spend all your time in there; you’ll miss the multi-colored branches swaying above you. Take the 1.2-mile trail along Montague Mountain for a fulfilling fall hike.

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spotting

Worried about stroke? Learn to think FAST.

A

A stroke happens when a clot blocks an artery or when a blood vessel explodes, cutting off blood supply to the brain. When the brain loses blood, brain cells die. Dead brain cells translates into loss of ability including speech, movement and memory recall. When it comes to recognizing a stroke—or “brain attack”—the National Stroke Association says to think FAST.

F

A S T

BY CHEYENNE MARTIN

Face.

Does one side of the face droop when the person smiles?

GOOD NEWS

ARMS.

Does one arm drift downward when the person raises both arms?

SPEECH.

Is the person’s speech slurred or strange when speaking in simple phrases?

TIME.

Call 9-1-1 immediately if you notice any of these factors, even if you still aren’t sure of a stroke. Time is critical.

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Healthy living is crucial to decreasing your risk of stroke.

Knowing what to do in the face of a stroke can mean the difference between life and death as well as improve the quality of life after.

While a stroke can certainly be a game changer, it doesn’t have to be a game ender.

stroke PREDETERMINED

Some victims can make a complete recovery, but according to the NSA, NEARLY TWO-THIRDS OF STROKE VICTIMS ARE LEFT WITH SOME KIND OF DISABILITY. The acuteness of one’s disability depends on the strength of the stroke and quick medical intervention.

80%

vs. PREVENTABLE

As scary as those statistics may sound, there is a silver lining:

NEARLY

OF STROKES ARE PREVENTABLE.

Stroke does not discriminate against age, instead its risk factors can creep in to lifestyles and health issues which aren’t age-related at all.

The NSA labels stroke as the FOURTH LEADING CAUSE OF DEATH IN THE COUNTRY AND A COMMON REASON BEHIND ADULT DISABILITY. In addition, the NSA reports that on average, 55,000 more women than men have strokes annually. Women live longer and stroke happens more often during the twilight years. But when it comes to strokes at younger ages, men have the higher numbers.

High blood pressure is a crucial determining factor when it

comes to stroke. It is also preventable. High blood pressure can weaken the blood vessels and even damage organs, including the brain, leaving the body vulnerable to stroke.

Diabetes is another health issue which can increase the risk of stroke. Diabetics are nearly four times as likely to experience a stroke, mainly because they experience so many other health problems. But treating diabetes properly and keeping it under control can greatly reduce the risk.

Other health issues that can put you at risk for a stroke include

Race, like gender, can also put you at risk for stroke. AFRICAN-AMERICANS, FOR EXAMPLE, HAVE TWICE THE RISK AS CAUCASIANS. Other uncontrollable factors include age, previous stroke, fibromuscular dysplasia, a hole in the heart and family history, race and gender.

atrial fibrillation (Afib), alcohol consumption, obesity, smoking or using tobacco, high cholesterol and atherosclerosis. All of these conditions weaken the heart and blood vessels leaving the cardiovascular system vulnerable. Much like diabetes, however, keeping them in control and living a healthy lifestyle decreases the risk of stroke dramatically.

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Smile something to

brush teeth twice daily and Floss

about

Get that Million Dollar Smile naturally and on the cheap!

As we age, our teeth naturally lose enamel—sadly exposing that lovely yellow underneath instead of those pearly whites. Professional whitening services are available through your dentist and over-the-counter treatments are at your disposal in any mainstream grocery or drug store. Although these treatments may have some temporary effects, the cost adds up and the results are not permanent. Not to mention, many of these products have a plethora of nasty chemicals in them—and who wants to ingest those?

Fortunately, there are safer , more frugal options that can be used at home with pretty decent results!

BY MELISSA TATE WITT

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2 get dirty

no.

1

try THIS

to get clean

no.

Activated Charcoal Best known for its use upon toxic poisoning (a great

So fresh, so clean

thing to keep in the medicine cabinet, by the way), activated charcoal also has the potential to brighten those pearly whites! It adheres to toxins and aids in removing stains from teeth as well as being effective in preventing cavities and killing bad bacteria present in

baking soda + lemon juice

(or water)

tooth decay and gingivitis.

Mix together to form a soft paste and brush the solution onto dry teeth (wipe teeth with soft towel beforehand) and leave for about a minute. Don’t leave on longer than a minute or the lemon juice, if using, can start to break down that important enamel.

You can find activated charcoal at most any vitamin store, natural foods retailer or online in powder or capsule form. to use: Dip a wet toothbrush into a small amount of activated charcoal. You can get about two uses from one capsule, and to avoid a big mess, I suggest dumping a few

3

no.

rinse + repeat Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse

Swish a 3 percent mixture of hydrogen peroxide

capsules into a small container. (Trust me—this stuff can get everywhere!) Gently brush onto your teeth in small, soft circles for about two minutes, then rinse and brush with water. Use for a few days until you notice the difference—I certainly did!

around once a week to maintain that shiny smile!

More tips to keep that smile beautiful:

EAT

UP!

Raisins // to induce saliva production to naturally rinse away plaque. apples // which have malic acid, to remove excess food and bacteria while dissolving surface stains.

strawberries // containing both an astringent and vitamin C, to help with surface stains and clearing away plaque.

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A PUBLICATION OF THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION

avoid: sodas, wine, tea and coffee or use a (reusable) straw tobacco use

falling in love with

MAGNOLIA SPRINGS E S TA B L I S H E D 1 8 91

Smothered

in the shade of live oaks’ sprawling, fern-covered and moss-draped branches, Magnolia Springs is about five miles from Foley and 20 minutes from Alabama’s beaches, but it seems worlds—and decades—away.

BY JENNIFER STEWART KORNEGAY

Slow down and step back in time with a visit to Magnolia Springs.

If you’re in need of a break from the maddening pace of modern life, then this tiny historic hamlet is exactly where you need to be, and autumn’s cooler temps make now the right time to visit.

It was settled in the 1700s and grew as part of a Spanish land grant in the early 1800s.

Its location on the banks of the Magnolia River made it an attractive spot for trade and industry. A brick factory opened in 1819, and for more than 10 years, turned out the bricks used to build Fort Morgan at the mouth of Mobile Bay. The town was officially established in 1891 and took its name from the bubbling natural springs in the area. In the early 1900s, when “curative waters” were all the rage, visitors flocked to the town to improve their health by drinking or soaking in the spring water.

Today, people still journey to Magnolia Springs looking for restoration. The spring waters may not cure what ails you, but a weekend amid gentle breezes off the river, fabulous food, pampering at a B&B, exploring the outdoors and doing a whole lotta nothing just might.

HISTORY & HOSPITALITY

In a house dating back to 1900, The Magnolia Springs Bed & Breakfast welcomes guests with a wide, wrap-around porch and offers five lovely rooms (each with a private bath). The exterior was restored to the house’s original look in 1996, and the interior was carefully refurbished to highlight the woodwork and stained glass in the hallways and sitting room.

Friendly innkeepers (who obviously love their job), make a stay here special, as does the delicious full breakfast served every morning (included in your rate).

Check into the special packages the B&B is happy to arrange. Get a bird’s-eye view of the area with a hot-air balloon ride.

Discover every bend and nook of the Magnolia River on a 26-foot Panga boat that can go deep into the backwaters to find native wildlife like osprey, dolphins, alligators and more. Or find a perch on the porch and wile the day away with a good book or even better daydream.

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A PUBLICATION OF THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION

River Run Magnolia Springs is the only place left in the United States where the mail is still delivered via boat year round. www.magnoliasprings.com

IMAGE COURTESY OF ANDREA WRIGHT

IN THE OUTDOORS

The town’s main road runs beside the river and takes you under arched branches and a canopy of leaves that only allow a few drops of sunshine through, making for a comfy stroll or jog. The river itself hosts canoes, fishing, paddle boarding and other activities.

EAT UP

Jesse’s restaurant is walking distance from the B&B, and you’ll need the walk (and then some) after filling up on this award-winning eatery’s renditions of fine-dining classics created with fresh, local ingredients. Ask to sit in the sunroom that’s flooded with sunshine in the daytime and glowing with candle light at night. Try the grilled shrimp salad with goat cheese, plump Gulf Shrimp, orange sections, sun-dried tomatoes and tangy citrus vinaigrette or the beef filet over creamy gouda grits with sautéed local veggies.

One item you won’t see looking at Jesse’s menu online is fish. Since the chef is committed to using only what’s fresh and available daily, the fish he’s cooking changes all the time. Ask your server for the day’s fish special.

Next door is the old Moore Bros. general store, listed in the National Register of Historic Places, where the restaurant got its name.

The Cold Hole is also next door and offers the same commitment to quality as Jesse’s, but in a more laidback atmosphere.

Jesse King

was the beloved shopkeeper at Moore Bros. for decades, and by borrowing his name, Jesse’s restaurant honors his place in the community.

www.jessesrestaurant.com

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VISIT READLEAN.ORG

Venture a little farther to find the nearby Weeks Bay Reserve, part of the National Research Reserve System. Learn about the important role the area’s estuaries play in the future of Mobile Bay and the entire Gulf of Mexico and walk the boardwalk trail through maritime forest and marshland to see it for yourself. Look for the pitcher plant bog, a soggy field full of hundreds of these rare carnivorous plants.

www.weeksbay.org RETAIL THERAPY

There aren’t many shopping options in Magnolia Springs itself, but in the surrounding areas of Baldwin County, there are many, many places ready to part you and your money.

Antique stores in particular abound. Stop in the Gift Horse Antique Centre, The Green Ant and Old Armory Mall, all minutes away in Foley.

Are you ready to ride?

Checklist for fun and safety: • Always wear a helmet • Stay off paved roads and avoid unfamiliar terrain • Ride an ATV that is right for your age • Supervise riders younger than 16 • Never carry a passenger on a single-rider ATV • Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs Children younger than 16 are twice as likely to be injured while riding an Adult ATV than a Youth ATV

Respect others • Know the laws • Get training Experience counts! atvsafety.gov

M

E

O T N

NE

Y Y

H

Y E

IN L F

Y

Y

Y G

HORES S F UL

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PUMPKIN PATCHES, FOOTBALL GAMES, CRISP, COLORFUL FALLING LEAVES— DOES IT GET ANY BETTER THAN THIS? YES! CHECK OUT THESE SEASONAL EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE STATE TO MAKE THIS YOUR BEST AUTUMN EVER.

2014

BIRMINGHAM

October 5

check out some

4th Annual Magic City Mile thebellcenter.org This one-mile fun run starts off in Homewood’s Soho square to help raise funds and awareness for services provided by the Bell Center. This event also kicks off the BellRunner’s program that provides training and coaching for the Mercedes Marathon and Half Marathon while also pairing the BellRunner with a Bell Center child.

of

's favorite

festivities this fall.

GULF SHORES

October 9-12 2014 National Shrimp Festival

MENTONE

October 18-19

myshrimpfest.com

30th Annual Mentone Colorfest

As one of the nation’s most delicious outdoor festivals, this shrimpy shindig offers incomparable Gulf Coast Shrimp to a crowd of over 250,000 people annually.

Enjoy storytelling, sing-a-longs and s’mores as you’re surrounded by the magical scenery of the northeast Alabama mountains.

mentonealabama.org

MONTGOMERY

HEFLIN

Trick or Pink

Pinhoti 100

theshoppesateastchase.com

pinhotitrailseries.com

October 25

Joy to Life is once again partnering up with The Shoppes at EastChase for a Trick or Pink event to help fight breast cancer. Not only will there be a Halloween costume contest for the kids to enjoy, they’ll also be able to pick their very own pink pumpkin in this year’s pink pumpkin patch!

November 1

SAVE THE DATE!

Wa lk of Life 2015

JOY TO LIFE'S WALK OF LIFE WILL BE APRIL 18, 2015. REGISTER ONLINE AT WALKOFLIFE2015.ORG STARTING IN OCTOBER!

VISIT READLEAN.ORG TO FIND OUT MORE WAYS TO SUPPORT JOY TO LIFE DURING BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

Part of the Pinhoti Trail Series, the Pinhoti 100 is a challenging 100-mile point-to-point trail running race in northeast Alabama, full of creek crossings, rocky ridges and magnificent views. While traveling different terrain throughout the race, one of the spectacular “climaxes” is reaching the highest point in Alabama.

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ISN’T IT TIME TO CHANGE YOUR

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r u O In , s e i s a t F an s a m t s i C hr comes as a

beautiful horse-drawn sleigh to carry us

gently through the season.

BUT IN REALITY,

Christmas COMES AT US like an eighteen-wheeled, supercharged, nitrous-burning, straight-six diesel-powered, self-propelled juggernaut of a big rig.

–Mary Hunt,

Founder of Debt-Proof Living

Enjoying the Holidays

without breaking

ALL-NATURAL

THE BANK

arol Loeb is a wife and mother of three teenagers under the age of 18. When her family prepares to celebrate Hanukkah each year, Carol uses the opportunity to get creative with her decorating, rather than spend a lot

One of the

of money. “When my kids were little, I would often decorate with Hanukkah decorations

greatest

you can find in the store, many of which are

drawbacks to

last few years, I have started decorating with

growing up and becoming responsible adults is coming face-to-face with the reality that the holiday season can often bring more stress than magic to our lives. Many would argue the holiday season has become so commercialized, it can nearly drain us of all joy. No doubt this idea ring-a-ling-lings with a great deal of truth for most of us. But we don’t have to let it be the rule. We talked to two mothers who have not only found their own way to bring the joy back, but have found a way to do it without going in to debt.

Follow Carol’s lead and consider downsizing your décor this year and raid your backyard for natural options that will save you money and are better for our environment.

BY BRENDA ROBERTSON DENNIS

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A PUBLICATION OF THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION

not elegant or very pretty,” she said. “The a more natural approach. I usually go to the Curb Market and purchase green garland, which I put on my buffet and dining table. I collect a lot of mercury glass items so I put these around the garland and include gold or silver Menorahs with pretty candles. I find a variety of pretty items around my house to use with the garland and to accent the Menorahs. Since I use many items I find at home, the garland is really my only major purchase.

I have also incorporated white poinsettias. I find that this creates an elegant Hanukkah every year.”

Do as the Browns do and focus on serving others as well as maintaining relationships and forging new ones with quality together time instead of putting so much emphasis on expensive gifts or frivolous packaging.

with

Made

love STRAIGHT TO THE HEART

A great gift idea for grandparents and other relatives is to take kids’ pieces of art, scan them and create framed composites of some of their finer masterpieces. Many hobby stores carry inexpensive, pre-framed composites for displaying multiple photos at once. You can even paint the frames to make them extra special.

FOCUS ONon FAMILY focus family

PERSONAL & PRACTICAL

FOR WIFE AND MOTHER OF FOUR AMY BROWN, the holidays are more about the activities her family shares than anything else. Together, the Brown family enjoys picking out gifts for Angel Tree kids in the community and residents of MARC (Montgomery Area Retarded Citizens). Amy’s brother is a resident of MARC, so it is especially close to their hearts. They also love driving around together to look at the Christmas lights people put up, and visiting Santa Claus at their area mall. But one of their favorite traditions each year is picking out the photo for the family Christmas card and letter. It’s quite an operation, with planning beginning months in advance. “We try to find the best deal going on cards. Usually Sam’s or Costco, but every now and again these coupon sites like Groupon or Living Social will have a deal that you just can’t pass up,” Amy said. “We each contribute what we did for the year and include it in a yearly greeting From the House O’ Brown. We assemble the cards together and everything. One will fold the letter, one will put them together, one will stuff the envelope, and one will put on the stamp. It really is a group project, and it reiterates the importance of making those connections with our family and friends and sharing our lives with them.”

48

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A super easy gift for friends and neighbors is to purchase tile remnants from your local hardware store and stamp them with their initials to create a set of personalized drink coasters or soap holders. You can also purchase sheets of corkboard for relatively little money and cut them to fit the bottoms. Wrap them up in pretty ribbon and they’re ready to make someone smile.

LOOKING GOOD

Homemade goodies for gifts always garner rave reviews. You can add extra holiday panache to your simple baked goods or candies with cute packaging, or make your own wrapping by ironing patterned tissue paper between two sheets of wax paper. You can also adorn plain brown butcher paper with holiday icons using ink stamps; this works well for wrapping non-food items too.

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A PUBLICATION OF THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION

st e B e h r t e u g q n n i . o d r c e n i c o F t n a t c o Sh reast b MCI has an entire team dedicated to treating breast cancer.

The score has been well documented.

Breast cancer is the leading cancer killer among women in the U.S. But it’s very treatable when detected in its early stages. That’s why USA Mitchell Cancer Institute (MCI) does a full-court press on breast cancer, with a multidisciplinary team of surgeons, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists and other specialists—all working together to create individualized treatment plans to provide the most advanced and most comprehensive care possible.

That’s how we’re beating cancer. Working together to provide a total package of care—groundbreaking research, state-of-the-art treatments, and prevention.

All with one goal…to win.

Minds Conquering Cancer www.usamci.com | 1-800-330-8538 1660 Springhill Ave. | Mobile, AL 36604 – 251-665-8000 – 188 Hospital Dr., Ste. 400 | Fairhope, AL 36532 – 251-990-1850 –

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