Point of Vue March 2023 - The Southern Home

EXTRAS ON THE COVER WORD, YA HEARD

2023 HOME TRENDS A look at what's trending in home design and decor.

Photo: Misty Leigh McElroy

POSITIVELY PINK CHEEKS The colorful art of Nichol Brinkman is sure to make you smile!

Grown up bohemian

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PUBLISHER

Brian Rushing

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Mary Downer Ditch

EDITORIAL

Bonnie Rushing Editorial Director

Mix of rustic and contemporary

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CREATIVE

Lauren Hemstreet

PHOTOGRAPHY

Misty Leigh McElroy

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

John Doucet

Determined to establish one!

Isabelle Gareis

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Point of Vue magazine is published monthly. Subscriptions are available for $36 for 12 issues. For more information, email mail@rushing-media.com or visit rushing-media.com/subscriptions.

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Point of Vue magazine cannot be responsible for the return of unsolicited material such as manuscripts or photographs, with or without the inclusion of a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Information in this publication is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy and completeness of the information cannot be guaranteed. The opinions expressed in Point of Vue magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the opinions of Rushing Media, our employees or any of our advertisers. No employee or family member(s) of employees of Rushing Media are permitted to partake in any contests, giveaways or sweepstakes.

THE SOUTHERN HOME

As I type this note, I am sitting in my backyard on a February afternoon. It is currently 75 degrees outside. My crepe myrtles are starting to turn green; the Indian Hawthorne and azaleas are in full bloom. The birds that frequent my neighbor’s bird houses are back. My dog has taken to sunbathing in the clover patch by the back fence and pretends to not hear me calling for her to come inside.

I know it’s still winter, but you will have a hard time convincing my yard it’s not!

This year, I am very excited about getting a little backyard garden planted for my family. Jackson has had surprising success turning an avocado seed into a tree and a sprouting potato plant into more potatoes, so I feel we are ready for a few new plants. He’s also quite particular about the vegetables he eats, so I’m thinking that by growing them himself, he’s more likely to eat them…. Right? We are going to plant tomatoes, cucumbers and bell peppers along with some basil, rosemary and thyme.

It’s also time to start over in our flower beds. The original landscaping was put in when the home was built in 1999. Parts of the beds are overgrown with weeds, plants that were given to us by the birds and wind, and other shrubs that have just seen better days. The plan is to start over with plants that are better suited for my version of care: ignore it and hope for the best.

March’s issue is excitedly our home and garden issue. This is one of our favorite issues to put together. Our readers

love seeing inside a grand home and planning out their own home improvements. While we recognize that our area is still rebuilding from Hurricane Ida, and we know that supplies and labor are still hard to find, we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to help you dream and plan for the future. Inside this issue, we also share a special advertising section where local businesses share their stories on how they can help you to make your house a home.

What would a home be without a little art? Pink Cheeks’ artist, Nichol Brinkman, brings color and character to every piece she creates. Nichol began her artistic business by making and selling homemade, oneof-a-kind baby mobiles. Her reach as an artist has grown exponentially since then, now making and selling paintings, prints, toys, soft sculptures, and even publishing books. She will also be a featured artist at the 2023 New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival! Learn more about Nichol’s story and see some of her creations starting on page 20.

When it comes to style trends in the home, we decided to put our local talent to work! We asked seven local experts to share what they are seeing when it comes to color, floor plans, textiles and more! Check out our special feature on home decorating and design, starting on page 24.

Spring is such a wonderful time of renewal, growth, and fun. I hope you find the time to enjoy this issue of the Southern Home from your favorite spot in your own home! POV

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SPACE IN YOUR HOME AND WHY?

TIFFANY

One of my favorite spaces in our home is our screened in sunroom. This space provides a place for us to gather as a family, to read a book, or drink a cup of coffee. Of course, the best time to enjoy this space is in the spring and fall!

GRANT

My favorite space in my house is our dining room. It’s full of furniture passed down through the family, so it’s as special to us as it is functional; and with my wife’s seasonal decoration updates, it’s never short on charm!

AMANDA

My own master closet is my sanctuary. Since I am surrounded by my children and my husband all the time, it is my own oasis where I have made it all my own including my own water closet and refrigerator. I don’t have to talk to anyone about what happened in the Mandalorian!

RUSTY

My kitchen is my favorite space, probably because I redesigned it myself post hurricane Ida, and I get to see the fruits of my labor everyday. It’s so fresh and modern and a great place to gather with friends and family with its open concept to the dining and living spaces!

LUCY

I love being in my kitchen. Whether it’s to cook for my family, bake with my kids, hang toddler artwork on the fridge, or just sit down together at the end of the day, it’s the space where we all come together.

You’re In Luck! You’re In Luck!

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Bone Density Scans (DEXA), treatment of bone disease, and general well-being

Michael S. Haydel, MD, FIPP

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Donovan Matherne, FNP-C Brandi Degruise, FNP-C

THE SOUTHERN HOME

BY MARY DITCH | PHOTOS BY MISTY LEIGH MCELROY

Filled with light, love and laughter, this gorgeous, transitional-style home is located in Thibodaux. The four bedroom, four and a half bath home was finished in March 2021. Even through supply chain issues and other Covid-releated struggles, the homeowners pushed through for the home to be completed in under a year.

“I found our property on a random whim one day, while driving around Thibodaux, waiting to pick up my oldest daughter from dance. I happened upon the neighborhood, not knowing it existed before. We had been looking for property for a while, trying to decide on building versus buying a home already built. We decided to build because I am quite

particular about my space and I want what I want,” shared the homeowner. “No property felt quite right until I found this neighborhood. When I drove down our street, I felt a sense of calm, and just knew it’s where I wanted to live. Then I saw a vacant property with a Ledet Homes sign on it. I knew Chris Ledet at the time, so I jumped on the opportunity, and never turned back! Like many homes built in that time period, there were supply chain issues, and we caught the beginning of the dramatic increase in the cost in lumber right as we were framing, which hurt a little. Towards the end, we had to scramble to complete the build enough for us to move in because we sold our previous home in 2 days, and needed to be out for the buyer

by a certain date. I refused to rent an apartment and move twice, so everyone rallied, and we made it happen on time! The building and finishing of our house was definitely a labor of love!”

The most eye-catching feature in the house is the glass wall overlooking the backyard. The wall is store-front material custom made by a glass man whom the homeowner works with. The wall is one of the homeowners’ favorite features, not only for its stunning appearance but for the amount of natural light it allows into the home.

“Originally, the peak of our house was supposed to run in the opposite direction (from side to side), but an architect friend suggested we run it front to back.

We had to keep the exterior roof line the way it was, but changed the interior ceiling pitch to run front to back so that we could have the entire back open with windows, and we couldn't be happier with how it turned out!”

The flooring is a blend of engineered hard-wood, ceramic, and marble tile. The countertops are all quartz, which was selected for its durability with two young children. The kitchen is fairly bold with its black cabinets, but the boldness is tamed by keeping the uppers white. The outdoor living space is small but cozy for the time being. The homeowners are currently in the brainstorming phase of designing an outdoor kitchen and pool space to come in the not too distant future!

When it comes to the decor of the home, it is a comfortable mix of styles. Everything from eclectic, to art deco, to modern, to transitional. The homeowner likes a modern line/look, with some glam elements and color, as well as quite a few natural elements to keep it feeling a little fancy, but completely liveable.

Of note in the home is also the ceiling in the master bedroom, a geometric design painted in black. “I came up with the design, showed my husband a picture and said "I want this." And he made it happen,” shared the homeowner. “It makes the bedroom feel a bit moodier, which I like, given we have so many white walls.”

The homeowners utilized the help of various vendors. Paul Ledet was the builder who the homeowners had a joint venture with. One of the homeowners is a commercial contractor, so they came to a deal where they worked together to manage the project. Perque’s Flooring was used for flooring, tile, and countertops. Naquin’s Painting handled all of the painting, interior and exterior. The roof was completed by Premier South. Cabinets were crafted by KrisBuilt of BR, who are “actually getting to work on an additional small project in the laundry and back entry at the moment, because I want more organization! You can never have too much of it with kids in the house!” POV

No. 3 Dining Room

No. 4 Kitchen

No. 5 Living Room

No. 6 Outdoor Living

No. 7 Master Bathroom

No. 8 Master Bathroom

No. 9 Master Bedroom

No. 10 Bedroom

No. 1 Exterior

From First Visit to Final Vision

Searching for an all-new look that’ll bring your living area Coburn’s. Your Project Partner.

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CLH Build

In 2023, CLH Build is celebrating 40 years of building custom homes in the Bayou Region. Founded in 1983 by Chris Ledet, the company has been driven by integrity and quality. Now in its second generation of leadership under the direction of his son Paul Ledet, CLH Build continues to build every custom home with the values his father instilled in him.

In addition to providing the highest quality craftsmanship and service, CLH Build understands that it’s more than a house, it’s your home. By utilizing technology, as well as close relationships with architect and design partners who align with CLH Build’s commitment to experience, quality and integrity, your home will exceed your expectations.

Throughout the construction process, CLH Build uses the latest industry technology to maintain frequent, consistent and meaningful communication with you. From viewing progress photos to letting you select details such as fixtures and flooring, their powerful platform keeps everything related to the build of your new home in one, easilyaccessible place.

Using quality, energy efficient materials, as well as FORTIFIED solutions CLH Build helps to protect your family and home. By supporting the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety’s (IBHS) FORTIFIED Home program, CLH Build is working to make our community

more resilient. Utilizing FORTIFIED Home’s voluntary severe storm protection system upgrades will give you peace of mind knowing your home is structurally resilient and will better withstand severe weather.

Having built more than 400 custom homes throughout the past 40 years, CLH Build is committed to quality and a first class experience. With a passion for building beautiful, custom, sustainable homes in the Bayou Region, CLH Build remains at the forefront of homebuilding. Whether it’s integrating solar power, or building zero-energy ready homes, CLH Build can customize your home for how you live.

Take the first step to building your dream home, and reach out to their team at clhbuild.com. POV

110 Rue Beaumont • Thibodaux, LA 985.448.2221 clhbuild.com

Morrison Terrebonne

Morrison Terrebonne has been a staple in the Houma community for 100 years and counting, led by Doug Gregory, Greg Landry, David Vice, and Keith Voisin. They specialize in supplying the community with lumber, building materials, windows, doors, paint, consultations, and more. Morrison Terrebonne is proud to have helped several generations with their home projects. They provide a variety of services and products and patrons can enjoy delivery from either location, a full lumber yard, paint matching, tool repair, special orders, as well as curbside pick up. Alongside these amenities, Morrison Terrebonne has a large, unique range of inventory to choose from also, including items for outdoor living, flooring, hardware, doors, windows, building materials, plumbing, electrical, lawn and garden, cabinets and almost any tool you might need. Morrison Terrebonne has special financing for individuals working on projects for personal or commercial use.

Doug and Greg stated that many locals continue to deal with the destruction from Hurricane Ida and a lot of their business is still centered around rebuilding. “People are coming in and buying items for projects, but they are also purchasing new windows, siding, doors, and more basic things like that following the hurricane damage," said Doug. "People are still trying to rebuild what was lost." Greg

mentioned that people are also looking to replace materials in their houses with new, stronger alternatives, particularly materials that are rot resistant in the damp weather.

In their 100 years of existence, Morrison Terrebonne has supplied materials for thousands of new homes and countless home improvement projects while catering to the needs of both homebuilders and homeowners. Whether you are working on a new venture or replacing damaged materials, Morrison Terrebonne of Houma has almost everything home improvers need for their projects. Visit morrisonterrebonne.com or call (985) 879-1597 for more information about their services. "When we say full service, we mean it." POV

605 Barataria Ave. • Houma, LA 985.879.1597

PHOTOS BY KIRK VOCLAIN PHOTOGRAPHY

Dishman Flooring & Interiors

Dishman Flooring & Interiors has operated locally for 29 years. While the business has evolved over the years and now includes flooring, paint, and interior design, the heart of the business remains the same.

“We love serving our community, and the heart of that is what has pushed us to move forward all these years,” says owner Billy Dishman.

Dishman Flooring & Interiors operates as an installer and provider of all types of flooring. In 2019, the business added a Benjamin Moore paint showroom. Pairing paint and flooring was a natural expansion becoming a onestop shop for floors and walls.

Dishman Flooring & Interiors offers installation of hardwoods, vinyl, tile and custom showers. Nestled into

its 5,000 square foot flooring showroom are home décor accents, another delight for customers looking for the perfect piece to add to their home décor. POV

4633 W Main St. • Houma, LA 985.857.9347

dishmanflooring.com

BY ISABELLE GAREIS | PHOTOS PROVIDED

Local artist and businesswoman Nichol Brinkman is bringing light and color to homes across the country through her online and in-person artist studio, Pink Cheeks. Named in inspiration for her first born son’s pink baby cheeks, Nichol began her artistic business by making and selling homemade, one-of-a-kind baby mobiles. Her reach as an artist has grown exponentially since then, now making and selling paintings, prints, toys, soft sculptures, and even publishing books. Her latest accomplishment? Being chosen as a featured artist at the 2023 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival!

Nichol was born in Joliet, Illinois, and recalls having a passion for artwork from a very early age. “I just remember always being interested in art,” said Nichol. “I was always crafting and creating worlds of my own.” Brinkman even illustrated her own comic strip as a high school student. Soon after, she was accepted to Memphis College of Arts in Tennessee and earned her Bachelor in Fine Arts in Painting. “I was mostly an illustrator in high school, but then in college, painting just kind of happened!” Nichol remembers. Alongside her love of drawing and painting, Nichol said that she always had an interest in working with 3D materials. “For my senior

thesis, I created a series of shadow box puppet theaters, telling stories from my childhood,” Nichol says in her artist statement.

It was not until a personal tragedy in Nichol’s life that she really began to work extensively on her unique soft sculptures. "My mom got very sick after I graduated college," said Nichol. "I took up sewing to keep my hands busy while I sat by her bed." Following her mom’s passing, Nichol found sewing and visiting other artists' online blogs were an effective way to cope with her grief. She became fascinated with "plushy monsters," or little characters sewn out of soft material, and set herself the goal of sewing "A plushy monster a day"—all while documenting her journey on her new blog. Nichol designed countless characters, from monsters, to cactus people, or little kids in costumes, all while continuing to draw and come up with ideas in her sketchbook. "It constructed that I am still growing today," said Nichol. While her art moved into a more 3D form, it began to influence her drawings and paintings, making them flatter, simpler, and more colorful-ultimately becoming what they are known as today.

It was not until 2012 that Nichol moved to Thibodaux, after her husband accepted a job offer to work as

a painting professor at Nicholls State University. Nichol remembers visiting New Orleans for the first time and being deeply inspired by the colorful houses and whimsical designs—and this is when Pink Cheeks Studio was brought to life.

"I always knew I wanted to be an artist, but now I ready to streamline my work in some way," said Nichol. "I needed a way to monetize it." Named for her first born son’s rosy cheeks, she began creating unique, beautiful mobiles and selling them under her studio name. "I was doing a lot of custom work, I would make specific mobiles for different people—sometimes even using their family for inspiration in the mobile," Nichol explained.

"But things really took off when I received a custom order from a well-known blogger. After that, Pink Cheeks began to grow." Pink Cheeks Studio extended to become an Etsy shop, an online store, and a Facebook page, all where people can go to purchase a variety s work, from mobiles to prints to custom paintings. Nichol also began to break into the New Orleans art scene at this time, selling her work at the bimonthly Arts Market of New Orleans in

Alongside already working on prints, paintings, mobiles, and soft sculptures, two years ago Nichol published her first book featuring her illustrations, titled "The ABC's of New Orleans." The book was a great success, featuring beautiful and colorful illustrations of the famous city--as one reviewer stated, "It perfectly captures the heart and soul of New Orleans." Following the success of her first book,

Nichol submitted another idea for consideration, which was accepted and printed in spring of 2022, titled "The 123's of New Orleans." Nichol said, "this idea began as a print, but I knew that it needed to be a book. I submitted the idea to my publisher, and they loved it." Both of Nichol’s books can be purchased at Barnes & Noble, Amazon, Pink Cheeks Studio on Etsy, and other locations.

Despite the impressive list of accomplishments for Nichol, her most notable one to date is her acceptance to show as an artist in the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival 2023—which has a 10 percent acceptance rate for artists. Nichol will be demonstrating her painting techniques live to audiences, as well as selling one-of-a-kind paintings

Nichol talked about how participating as an artist in Jazz Fest is so exciting because the event promotes unique, hand-made items. "On my website, I mostly sell less expensive items like prints and books," said Nichol. "But I am really

work, she will be located in the Contemporary Crafts Tent from Thursday, May 4, to Sunday, May 7, the second weekend of the festival. Jazz Fest runs from April 28 - May 7 in New Orleans.

Nichol has many projects in the works, and looks forward to continuing to expand her business and artistic reach. "I am currently working on a new book, a seek and find one also about New Orleans," said Nichol. "People love local interest books. They are very special. I am very excited to see what Pink Cheeks Studio will bring in the years to come," she said. Nichol Brinkman is a one-of-a-kind artist, and will continue to grace the community from Thibodaux to New Orleans (and across the country) with her beautiful, colorful

and sculptures, and continue to grow my body of work." For those wishing

MORRISON TERREBONNE LUMBER

WHAT TRENDS ARE YOU SEEING IN OUTDOOR AREAS?

"I would say the biggest trend we have seen so far is outdoor kitchens and living spaces," said Doug Gregory. "People love to get outside, especially as the weather is beginning to warm up as we move into spring and summer. We are not seeing pools as much as we are seeing people want to build entire living spaces, complete with cookware and furniture," said Doug. Greg Landry echoed his agreement, saying, "Lots of new construction for houses that we are seeing is centered around making room in backyards for outdoor kitchens. I think it may be the new man cave," he chuckled, "except for the whole family to enjoy!"

SHANNON BELLA - KNIGHT N DAY DESIGNS

WHAT TRENDS ARE YOU SEEING IN COLOR?

Bold colors are going to be very popular this year as well as richer wood tones and an earthy color palette on fabrics. Neural tones paired with crisp white and a splash of black never goes out of style.

STACIE THERIOTINTERIOR DESIGNER WHAT TRENDS ARE YOU SEEING IN KITCHENS?

While the all-white kitchen will probably never go out of style, there are lots of new kitchen trends for 2023 that will make you equally happy. Think: pops of colors and timeless styling touches to make your space feel fresh.

When designing your kitchen functionality is very important. To make your time spent there more efficient and convenient be sure to have a well thought out plan for placement of drawers, cabinets, trash cans, spice cabinets etc. Tip: place a pullout trash can cabinet on the side of the stove as well as the side of sink.

If you want the latest trend in your kitchen then you want color. Don’t be afraid to go for the bold cabinet color, it’s only paint and can always be repainted should you tire of it. But be careful about overdoing it with a patterned tile backsplash. Instead consider something timeless like marble. Whether marble slab going up the wall, marble subway tile, or a marble mosaic, you are sure to love it endlessly. I know you may be thinking marble is too expensive but don’t worry because you can still achieve the desired look without the high cost. A solid colored handcrafted tile is a great option and will be just as beautiful.

Pair that with a marble or quartz countertop and your kitchen will be a dream come true.

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.®

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Darryl M Brue, Agent 1950 Prospect Blvd Houma, LA 70363 Bus: 985-851-2584 darrylbrue.com

Rene Carreker Ins Agcy Inc Rene Carreker, Agent 1221 Museum Drive Houma, LA 70360 renecarreker.com

When a disaster strikes, we will be there. Backed by one of the industry’s largest catastrophe response teams, we’ll be ready to help when you need us.

We’re here. We’re ready.

AMY FLORES- GROS FLORES POSITERRY, LLC

WHAT TRENDS ARE YOU SEEING IN FLOOR PLANS?

I’m starting to see more pass-through laundry rooms located to give direct access from the master suite, which is quite convenient. Butlers’ pantries are also becoming increasingly popular as a separated area for food storage, small appliances, and items that can tend to clutter a beautiful kitchen.

Personally, I’d like to see the open floor plan concept begin to trend toward a bit more separation between kitchen and living room spaces. Having these spaces wide open can create some challenges with noise and a little separation of use can be a good thing.

JAIME DISHMAN - DISHMAN FLOORING & INTERIORS

WHAT TRENDS HAVE YOU SEEN IN FLOORING IN GENERAL?

We are seeing so much warmth come back to floors. Warm wood tones, pops of color on backsplashes and some cream undertones as opposed to stark white. For tile, the trend is very big or very small - we are seeing large format tiles (16 x 32 is the new 12 x 24) or very small hex tile or even pennies. It’s fun to use decorative tile that makes patterns; muted patterns with a vintage vibe are definitely taking the place of ultra-bold patterned tiles.

LINSI CENAC MATHERNE - LINSI L. CENAC INTERIORS, LLC

WHAT TRENDS ARE YOU SEEING IN FABRIC AND TEXTILES?

In 2023, color and texture are back, in a big way! Pantone has named magenta as the 2023 color of the year, and while you might not go for a magenta velvet sofa, you can add pops of color and texture throughout your home.

We are seeing a push toward bold floral patterns that evoke a more traditional feel but freshened up in more current colorways. Shades of cream, taupey grays, blues, greens with pops of salmon pinks and yellows have staying power. Plaid is also coming in strong these days in fabrics and even rugs. Fabrics with texture- chenilles, velvets, wools, mohairs- and many faux versions of these, are a great way to add a luxury touch to your home. These have been popular for the last several years and are definitely a standard classic. Solid fabrics are still a huge player and will give you an excellent base to work from. Boucle’ is on its way out after a short lived stint over the last two years.

Performance fabrics are still in high demand. No fabric is bomb proof, but these performance fabrics will give their best shot at preventing a stain on a big investment. These come in a wide range of colors and textures, and manufacturers are constantly adding new styles to keep up with the current trends. Indoor-outdoor fabrics are a great choice as well but can sometimes be a little rough to the touch. Performance fabrics tend to have a high polyester content while outdoor fabrics are often more acrylic based.

No matter what fabrics you decide to go with, remember different textures will give you a layered, welcoming look. Everything shouldn’t be the same color or material- mix it up!

PAUL LEDETCHRIS LEDET HOMES

WHAT TRENDS ARE YOU SEEING IN MATERIALS?

We’ve seen the exterior of homes trending to materials that are favorable for our conditions. Our elements are harsh here, and homeowners want less upkeep. Exterior doors and posts are a good example, with the availability of synthetic and affordable options that come in stain grade, the use of wooden exterior doors and posts are less common. Homeowners don’t want the upkeep of sanding and staining.

Another exterior trend is the use of stronger shingles, and the precautions we can take to protect your home, even if the shingles are torn off. By taping plywood seams or using a peel and stick ice and water shield material that completely seal up the roof, your home is significantly more protected. In the interior, we are seeing much less trim work, even in more traditional homes that have traditional features. Moldings are trending to a minimum. We’ve also seen an increase in the use of white oak cabinets and shelving, as well as the use of color, adding warmth. POV

Medical Grade Skincare

DIALING UP MEMORIES

Do you remember dial-up Internet?

I just need to know.

I know if you’re of a certain age, dialup isn’t even in your vocabulary. But for all of us oldies, raise a hand if you remember the sound, the wait, and the length of dial-up Internet. I was still living at my parent’s home when dial-up Internet was around. I can recall coming home from college, needing to log onto something on the Internet and having an entire conversation about my day with my mom while waiting for the Internet to connect.

It was a long wait. Annoying at times. But looking back, maybe waiting a minute or two or ten for things really wasn’t as bad as we all thought it was. It gave us a little extra time together. Last night, we were eating dinner. Most of my teenage kids were at the table with us (a miracle in itself with the busyness of schedules). We had a question about some old Adidas cleats in their dad’s closet and if they were considered vintage. And if so, could they be worth a lot? Within seconds, everyone had a phone out and had the answer. No. They’re worth about $80 even though they’re 25 years old an in perfect condition.

Phones went back in pockets. Question answered. All within a minute. Conversation resumed.

I wanted to ask them all if they knew how fast their world travels. Every question can be answered within seconds with the availability of a phone and WiFi. When I was 15, that would have seemed like space-age science stuff. A computer in your pocket? What?

Now it’s common.

Now, we are expected to answer phone calls and texts and instant messages within minutes of receiving them. It’s convenient and annoying all in one big overwhelming breath. I want to respond to you, but I also want to live hours of my life unbothered by every single message coming in. I want to be present with my people. But there’s also the fact that when I ignore a message with the intent to respond later, my old age kicks in and I forget completely about the message.

I’m not against technology. But sometimes I wonder what we’re missing in this lightning-fast world. The convenience of the fast-paced world is nice, but slow was nice as well. (Except if you want to go super old school before cell phones

when people got paged over the loudspeaker while shopping at WalMart. Let’s not go back to that.)

There’s a hurried rhythm to this life that carries its own kind of weight. It’s the weight of “everyone is waiting on me, so I need to hurry up and get it all done.” It can be ignored for a while, but comes rushing in and is always waiting around the corner to creep into spaces that we thought were free from the consuming crush of hurry.

In the “Life You’ve Always Wanted,” author John Ortberg says “one of the great illusions of our day is that hurrying will buy you more time.” Is it just me or does that ring a loud bell in your head that maybe our lives are more out of order than we thought they were? I’m so guilty. Hurry is a well-used verb in my life. I hurry through work. Hurry to clean. Hurry to bring kids. Hurry to cook supper. Hurry to get where we need to go.

I’ve preached slowing down for years. And by preaching, I mean the little self-given speeches to myself. I get better and then I get worse again. I’m faced this year with a senior leaving for college soon, and I want to shake myself. How did we get here? Everyone said if I blinked, it would be gone. I didn’t believe them for a second. But here we are, and I want to go back and savor moments that I rushed through. I can’t. But I can treasure these times. Phones down. Eyes locked on the person I’m with. Hearts together. Head undistracted.

The treasure is always people. Not a place. Not a position. The ones we are with are the best ones. POV

EARLY DETECTION OF COLORECTAL CANCER BEGINS WITH SCREENINGS

Despite the availability of various screenings and positive outcomes for early detection, colorectal cancer remains the third leading cause of cancer death in the United States. Louisiana has one of the highest incidence and mortality rates in the country.

Cancer that starts as a growth or polyp in the colon is called colon cancer. When it begins in the rectum, it is rectal cancer. If the point of origin is either organ—both of which are part of the large intestine—it may be referred to as colorectal cancer.

Colorectal cancer affects all genders and races, with African Americans at a 20% higher risk of having the disease. Due to an increase in cases among younger adults, healthcare experts now recommend that screenings for persons with average risk should begin at age 45 and continue every 10 years afterwards if results are normal. When caught early, it is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers with an average 90% five-year survival rate. So why does it continue to be the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and third leading cause of cancer death in this country? According to the American Cancer Society, it’s due to only about 66% of adults over age 50 being up to date on their screenings.

While a colonoscopy remains the gold standard of screenings, there are several other options including at-home stool sample tests that can alert you to anything suspicious.

March is National Colorectal Awareness Month and a good time to schedule a screening. Talk with your doctor about any concerns or call Thibodaux Regional Cancer Institute at (985) 493-4008 to find out more about the five types

of screening tests recommended by the National Cancer Institute.

Colonoscopy

The most well-known screening procedure is a colonoscopy. With the patient sedated, the doctor inserts a thin, tube-like colonoscope through the rectum and into the colon. A light and lens attached to the scope allow close views of possible growths or polyps. With this one-stop test, the doctor can also remove precancerous polyps before they cause other problems. It takes about 10 years for polyps to turn into cancer.

Sigmoidoscopy

Similar to a colonoscopy, this procedure also uses a thin, tube-like instrument with a light and lens to look inside the rectum and sigmoid— or lower colon—for polyps, abnormal areas or cancer. Polyps or tissue samples may also be removed during a sigmoidoscopy for a closer look under a microscope for signs of cancer.

Virtual colonoscopy

A virtual colonoscopy uses a series of x-rays known as computed tomography to make a pictures of the colon. The pictures create detailed images to show polyps and other unusual areas inside the colon.

According to the National Cancer Institute, a virtual colonoscopy poses fewer risks than a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy. Possible harm from radiation exposure during X-rays is unknown. The X-rays can also reveal problems with other organs that could lead to more testing.

Fecal occult blood test (FQBT)

With the FQBT, patients collect stool samples

in containers that are sent to their doctor or laboratory. Technicians check the sample under a microscope for blood, which may be a sign of polyps, cancer or other conditions.

DNA stool test

The at-home DNA stool test—known by the brand name Cologuard®—checks for genetic changes in stool cells that could indicate colorectal cancer.

Results of either the FQBT or DNA stool test can be effective when done regularly. However, anything suspicious requires a follow-up colonoscopy.

Screening works!

While most screening tests have risks, colorectal cancer often doesn't cause symptoms in the early stages. The primary reasons to screen for colorectal cancer are:

• It’s preventable—The earlier cancer is detected, the better the survival chances. An estimated 50 percent of colorectal cases resulting in death are preventable.

• It’s treatable—Surgery to remove cancerous growths results in cure approximately 50 percent of the time.

• It’s easily detectable—A cancerous polyp can take from 10 to 15 years to develop into cancer. With early detection, doctors can remove polyps before they become cancerous.

Stay up to date on screenings to lower your colorectal cancer risk. To learn more talk with your healthcare provider or call Thibodaux Regional Cancer Institute at (985) 493-4008.

Whether recovering from a stroke, fall, or other medical condition, our customized rehab program helps you recover quickly so you can get back home. If you’re getting ready for long-term living, we make the transition from home to our community as rewarding as possible. A variety of spacious resident suites offer the ultimate in privacy and comfort.

In the year 1521, when explorer Ferdinand Magellan landed at the Philippines, he faced a big problem. For five unscheduled months, he had been forced by hard winter to anchor along the coast of South America, where his fleet suffered wrecks, scuttlings, mutinies, and desertions. Then, after finding passage across the icy tip of the continent through the strait that today bears his name, maps told him to expect only a few days travel across the Pacific Ocean to reach the Spice Islands. But the Pacific proved much vaster than cartographers knew at the time. His men were desperately hungry and afraid of falling off of the edge of a flat Earth. And the sails of his ships were lifeless and askew because he had run out of fresh rope.

First landing at the islands some five centuries ago this month, the destitute Magellan met an influential islandic king who ordered all villages to gather and bring supplies. Among these supplies were fibrous, stone-ripped strips of leaf stems from the abacá tree. Magellan immediately recognized the importance of these strong, stringy strips. Playing cool, he asked one of the villagers, “Boy, make me some rope from this!” To which the boy, in turn playing cool, replied, “Hindi ako ang anak mo, Ferdinand!“ (I ain’t your boy, Ferdinand!”)

With much laughter, the boy yelled out to the villagers: “Nag-utos ang magarbong lalaking Portugues!” (Fancy Portuguese man gives orders!”) Magellan knew a rallying cry when he heard one, and he suddenly had a bigger problem than finding new rope. The villagers rushed Magellan and crew, weaponized the abacá strips, and proceeded to thrash and bloody the ironclad Europeans with the strong, unbreakable fibers of their native plant. And being a relative of the banana tree, abacá fruit made nicely firm grenade-like projectiles that turned slimy and slippery on impact—a perfect, two-pronged weapon for downing an enemy. The fight that day ended Magellan’s life, and, after a few additional back-stabbings and poisonings, survivors of his crew departed and returned westward to the Iberian Peninsula, effectively completing the first circumnavigation of the world--without spice and without falling off the edge.

After those few days of hostilities, native islanders realized that they had received something lasting from the visiting Europeans. No, not smallpox or typhoid or herpes or any other nasty microbial disease but rather the concept of turning the strong fibers of abacá into manufactured products—like rope. And the retreating Europeans inadvertently showed the trade route from which the islanders could profit from these products. It wasn’t long before the region known as Manila became a major trading port to Asia and world, exporting high-strength rope, whipping weapons, bananas, and, importantly, paper-like materials.

And there I was, 502 years later, on a very long flight in a crowded plane over the Pacific, surveying my mind for all the evidence that indeed there was no edge to a flat world to be concerned about. Like always, I carried reading materials to keep my mind off of in-flight drudgery. But not books like many other passengers carried aboard. Instead, I carried raw material not yet collected in books—a few scientific journal papers and reports and, as a diversion, a printout of new poetry or short fiction. Each of these were printed on 8.5” x 11” sheets and stapled at the upper left edge. Importantly, I carried them in a manilla folder (written here with two L’s to denote that it’s no longer made from abacá.)

And I thought about how important and cool I looked reading from within this historical, buff-colored bifold that contained cutting edge information from which I would triage worldly importance with my neon yellow highlighter and red gel pen. So cool, in fact, that beneath the hum of jet engines the cabin passengers erupted into conversation about me. “Look, Mom!” one kid’s thought cloud read. “He must be important! He doesn’t even read books!” And “Yes,” all the sighing mothers’ clouds would read, longingly, “What an important man and mind.” And all the dads’ clouds would say, “Stop looking at the important guy and look at me instead.” And all the lonely travelers agreed: “So cool. I wish I would come to know him. If only he would meet me for coffee and scones one day,” their clouds read.

Amidst all this coolness, however, like a psychic abacá thrashing, one young woman’s cloud gave me flack for using disposable paper products instead of the kind of illuminated tablet screen she was using. I assured her with my own thought cloud that the plants used to make my folder and papers were ultimately renewable resources, unlike the photons she was burning that are fueled by excavating hillsides for lithium to build batteries and either hydrocarbon combustion or nuclear fission to charge them—neither of which are renewable. Suddenly, her cloud disappeared. Maybe she was distracted by the large Chinese weather balloon floating outside. Maybe I should not have used such defensive capital letters in my thought cloud.

And then, all the thought clouds in the cabin evaporated, and the entire cabin conversation about me ended—just like that. In the capriciousness of human society, opinions about others can change in a matter of seconds, just like it did 502 years ago. Luckily, I and my folder survived the thrashing. And, as soon as we landed, we had coffee and scones and company. POV

BCCM Play it Forward Fundraiser

March 3, 7 p.m.

Foundry On The Bayou

The Bayou County Children’s Museum will host its annual Play It Forward Fundraiser under the theme Havana Nights! The special evening will benefit the BCCM and feature a one of a kind cocktail trail, local food, gaming tables, silent auction, exciting live auction and great live entertainment.

Roux for a Reason

March 11, 12 p.m.

Southdown Plantation

Roux for a Reason will host the 6th Annual Gumbo Cook-Off at Southdown Plantation. The event will feature a gumbo cook off, live music, and kids activities, making it fun for the whole family. Admission is $15, and proceeds will be dedicated to funding a comprehensive nutrition program at Mary Bird Perkins TGMC Cancer Center.

Grand Caillou

White Boot Clean Up

March 18, 7 a.m. - 2 p.m. Grand Caillou Recreation Center

Are you ready to create a cleaner, greener, and more beautiful community for your friends and neighbors? Join Keep Terrebonne Beautiful and volunteer to remove litter and debris from roadsides, highways, and waterways for a safer, cleaner community. All volunteers will receive a t-shirt (while supplies last) and entrance to the after-party celebration.

Paddle Bayou Lafourche & St.

Patrick’s Day on the Bayou

March 11, 7:30 a.m.

Downtown Thibodaux

Join BTNEP and Friends of Bayou

Lafourche for a jam-packed day of bayou fun! Begin your day with a beautiful paddle down Bayou Lafourche, and end celebrating St. Patrick’s Day along the bayou-side. Paddlers will choose either a 13.7 or 8.7-mile paddle, all the way down to Downtown Thibodaux, where FOBL's St. Patrick’s Day celebration will

be in full swing. The celebration will offer a family-friendly atmosphere with cardboard boat races, food and drinks, kids activities, live music and more.

The Haven Gala

March 25, 6:30 p.m.

Barry P. Bonvillian Civic Center

Presented by Thibodaux Regional Health System, The Haven invites you to enjoy an evening of food, spirits, music and auctions. Money raised at the event is a vital source of funding that ensures a local refuge for abused women and children. Attire for the evening is dressy casual.

Bayou Terrebonne Boucherie

March 25, 10 a.m.

Bayou Terrebonne Distillers

There’s nothing like a boucherie to remind us of the importance of community! Join the Hache Grant Association, Inc. in downtown Houma at the Third Annual Bayou Terrebonne Boucherie for a day of food, festivity and teamwork. In addition to mounds of pork, there will be a white bean cookoff, live music, and the famous Cajun Cup, including a series of bayouthemed competitions. Whether spectating or participating, it'll be a day of good Cajun fun for the whole family. C'mon out and pass a good time! General admission is free.

Terrebonne Orchid Society Orchid Show and Sale

March 24-26

Southland Mall

The Terrebonne Orchid Society Show and Sale that will take place on Friday, March 24 from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m., Saturday, March 25, from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m, and Sunday, March 26, from 12 p.m. – 6 p.m. Members of the Terrebonne society and other orchid societies from Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Mississippi, Lafayette, Texas will all be in attendance. A variety of orchids will be on display, including orchids available for purchase. The event is open to the public and free of charge. POV