Sandhills Naturally • July 2015 by Sandhills Naturally

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YO U R G U I D E TO H E A LT H Y L I V I N G I N T H E S A N D H I L L S A R E A • J U LY 2 0 1 5

Barefooting • Day Tripping • Recipes for On-the-Go

TABLE OF CONTENTS

july 2015 nutrition Traveling Foods: A Moveable Feast.............. 6

Barefooting and Getting Grounded, page 4

NC Producing Record Blueberry Crop.........8 Drink Up Natural, Refreshing Beverages.....9

wellness Barefooting and Getting Grounded.............4

DIY: Rags to Riches, page 10

Traveling with Essential Oils.....................15

living DIY — Rags to Riches..............................10

explore Day Tripping Through the Sandhills..........12 Jones Family Farm: Certified Organic........16 First Health Fitness...................................18 Resource Guide.......................................20 Calendar of Events..................................22

Jones Family Farm: Harnett's Only Certifed Organic Farm, page 16

“I thought I would try it as an organic farmer and that would give me a competitive edge. Everyone said that people here wanted organic, but I’m still trying to find them.” — Matt Jones, on organic farming 2

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July 2015

FROM THE PUBLISHER

barefootin' & day trippin' Your Guide to Healthy Living in the Sandhills

Editor & Publisher Joy Godwin Crowe Associate Editor Karen Gilchrist karen@sandhillsnaturally.com Contributing Writers Kelli Edwards Sueson Vess Patti Ranck Cory Worrell Marketing & Advertising Joy G. Crowe joy@sandhillsnaturally.com Mike Cole (Lee Co.) mcole@sandhillsnaturally.com Erin Davidson (Cumberland Co.) erin@sandhillsnaturally.com Published by Main Street Media 213 Skyland Plaza, Ste 1370-163 Spring Lake, NC 28390 For more information or to become an advertiser, please call 910.551.2883 www.SandhillsNaturally.com www.facebook.com/sandhillsnaturallync

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Copyright ÂŠ2015 by Main Street Media and Sandhills Naturally. All rights reserved. No part of this issue may be reproduced in whole or in part in any form without permission of the publisher or copyright holder. Neither participating advertisers nor the publishers will be responsible or liable for misinformation, misprints or typographical errors. The publishers reserve the right to edit any submitted material. Main Street Media is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, artwork or other material. Information in this publication is not meant to diagnose, treat or prescribe for medical conditions. The opinions expressed by contributing writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the editors and publisher.

Ah, summer. Going barefoot. Trips to the beach. Family vacations. It's finally here! My family has always been a fan of going barefoot. My sister is known for not wearing shoes, and I probably spend more time with bare feet than shoe-clad feet. My feet are rough and tough, far from prim and pedicured, with heels that sometimes are more like hooves. (Side note - lemon essential oil is excellent for removing sap from bare feet!) Turns out, what I thought was just a Southern-girl thing, is actually good for you, too! In this issue, learn more about barefooting and its grounding effects. If you are looking for something fun to do this month, we've got just the list for you. With a day trip, you can get away but not too far. Have some fun, but without spending a fortune. Fortunately, the Sandhills area is in the perfect spot for day trips. You can be at the beach in two hours, or in the mountains in three. And there is no shortage of things to do within driving distance. There's something new to discover just down the road! You might just find a new favorite farm, like Jones Family Farm, the only certified organic farm in Harnett County. Speaking of discoveries, readers are continuing to discover Sandhills Naturally. This is our 12th issue, but we still have folks tell us that they just found the magazine. And the compliments continue to come in. If you have just found our publication, you can visit our website at www.sandhillsnaturally.com to read all of the previous issues. Remember that it is supported by our advertisers, so stop in and see them and tell them we sent you! And, if you are enjoying Sandhills Naturally, be sure to tell a friend and pass them a copy. If you frequent a business that is a natural fit for this publication, tell them they should be in it! Like us on Facebook (sandhillsnaturallync), check out our digital edition online and help spread the word. Leave us a comment on our facebook page and on our website. If you would like to help support Sandhills Naturally by being a sponsor or a distribution location, please let me know. Thanks for reading!

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July 2015

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WELLNESS

barefooting and getting grounded By Karen Gilchrist

In efforts to improve their health and slow the aging

including us humans. When we walk barefoot, free electrons

process, many people are beginning to pay attention to what

transfer from the Earth into our bodies, creating a potent

they put in their bodies. They make better diet choices,

antioxidant.2

choosing whole food over processed and fast food and organic

Clint Ober, a pioneer in the field of grounding, and Dr.

over conventional crops; avoiding refined sugars, gluten and

Stephen Sinatra, a cardiologist who promotes natural strategies

grains; increasing consumption of good fats, like coconut oil

as complementary to cardiology, coauthored the book

and butter from grass-fed cows, and supplementing diet with

“Earthing: The Most Important Health Discovery Ever?” in

vitamins and minerals to correct deficiencies. But researchers

2010. Among the benefits they note is a general feeling of

now believe that removing something from the body may play

wellbeing. Everyday, we surround ourselves with

an important role in overall health and healing: shoes.

electromagnetic fields and radiation from our electronic devices. Grounding helps reduce some of that electronic stress by letting excess charge in the body discharge into the earth.2 But one of the more important primary health benefits of grounding is its antioxidant effect. It helps alleviate inflammation throughout the body, and “inflammation has come to the forefront of medical attention and has been recognized as the leading trigger of chronic pain and most major health disorders, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, arthritis, Alzheimer's, and cancer.”1 Additionally, initial studies suggest that grounding or earthing “significantly improves viscosity (blood thickness), inflammation, and flow” of the blood. Earthing may benefit “…individuals with diabetes, who have inflamed blood and a high risk for cardiovascular disease.… Testimony from both individuals and doctors, have told of improvements in circulation, blood pressure, arrhythmias, and

Remember that great feeling as a kid, to kick your shoes off and run through the grass barefoot as soon as the weather allowed? It turns out that we may all need to do a little more of that! Grounding or earthing means putting bare feet on the earth – going barefoot! But why is this so important? First, think of the Earth as what it is — “basically a six

neuropathy.”1 Grounding helps thin blood by improving its zeta potential, the energy between the red blood cells. Anxiety, emotional stress, high cholesterol, high uric acid levels, a high-sugar diet, smoking and toxic electromagnetic forces make the blood hypercoagulable, or thick and slow-moving, increasing the risk

sextillion (that's a six followed by twenty-one zeroes) metric ton

of a blood clot or stroke — and causing inflammation. Thick

battery that is continually being replenished by solar radiation,

blood prevents oxygen from getting to the body’s tissues.

lightning, and heat from its deep-down molten core. The

According to research, 80 minutes after grounding, the Earth’s

natural rhythmic pulsations of energy flowing through and

free electrons reach the blood stream and transform the blood,

emanating from the surface of the Earth keep the biological

increasing its zeta potential, or speed with which the blood cells

machinery and global life running in rhythm and balance”1 —

repel each other and function, an average of 280 percent.

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July 2015

Sinatra notes that by increasing “the thinning of your blood

many of us today, these aren’t necessarily practical habits.

naturally by grounding, you can fight off disease. Not only heart

Shoes (usually with rubber or plastic soles that prevent electron

disease and stroke, but I'm thinking cancer, Alzheimer's,

transfer) are required in the workplace, and one may not want

multiple sclerosis, or any illness that requires good oxygenation

to strut down a busy street, considering the potential for

to the tissues." Sinatra suggests caution on grounding, given

acquiring undesirable germs or getting stepped on. And

its effectiveness, to individuals taking blood thinners.

sidewalks during steamy hot summers and extreme cold are not

Grounding, according to experiments in Canada, Poland

particularly inviting to bare feet. Naturally, one would want to

and the U.S., may also improve human physiology, causing

take every opportunity to free the “dogs” from shoes or wear

changes in the body’s phosphorus, calcium and fibroid

shoes with leather soles, but for those without that choice,

metabolism and white blood cells. It quiets the sympathetic

options include grounding sheets, pads, mats, throws, body

nervous system, supporting heart rate variability. “And,”

bands and even yoga mats, that plug into a grounded outlet to

according to Sinatra, “when you support heart rate variability,

provide the necessary surface energy exchange for the body.

this promotes homeostatis, or balance, in your autonomic

So go ahead. Unstrap the Velcro. Loosen the laces. Slip off

nervous system. In essence, anytime you improve heart rate

the slip-ons. Get outside after the next rain, work in the garden

variability, you're improving the entire organism — in this case,

or stroll down the beach. Exchange some negative energy from

your entire body and all its functions.”2

the Earth to make a positive impact on your health. 1 ”What Is Earthing?” www.grounded.com/what-is-earthing 2 “Grounding Helps Thin Dangerously Thick Blood and Fights Inflammation and Disease,” http://articles.mercola.com/ sites/articles/archive/2013/08/04/barefoot-grounding-effect.aspx 3 “Grounding Is a Key Mechanism by Which Your Body Maintains Health,” http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/ archive/2014/08/02/grounding-earthing.aspx

But just walking around barefoot does not guarantee one is grounding. Not all surfaces are good for grounding. While beach sand, damp grass, bare soil, unsealed brick and concrete and ceramic tile provide good grounding, asphalt, rubber and plastic, tar, tarmac, vinyl and wood do not. Our ancestors walked and slept on the ground, but for

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Party Sustainably!

July 2015

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traveling foods: a moveable feast By Sueson Vess

Picnics, camping trips or any alfresco event with food requires advance forethought and consideration of the environment, the diners and transportation of the food. My advice: Keep it simple! Traveling food can still be delicious and nutritious — a feast enjoyed by everyone. The environment: Assume that clean up will be limited, so pack wet wash cloths or paper towels for sticky fingers and tables. Bring foods that are easy to serve and enjoy like barbeque chicken wraps, pan-bagnat sandwich loaf or chicken salad (see recipes below). The diners: All the recipes here are gluten-free and can easily be free of other allergens. They are family-friendly, simple to prepare and both good tasting and good for you, too. A delicious chocolate chip cookie is always welcome! Transportation: Keep cold foods cold! Pack foods in insulated containers or thermos with plenty of ice or dry ice to maintain a safe temperature in warm weather. Avoid creamy, mayonnaisebased dishes that spoil quickly when not refrigerated. Try the French potato salad recipe made without mayonnaise. Enjoy these picnic recipes that are gluten-free, dairy-free and either free from most common allergens or easily adapted to fit your needs and tastes. BARBEQUE CHICKEN WRAP SERVES 4 TO 6 Moist, sweet and delicious and wrapped up to keep the BBQ mess contained. Add sliced red onions or shredded lettuce to increase antioxidants in this delicious wrap. Speaking of wraps — here are a few you can find in your local grocery or health food store: La Tortilla Factory® Ivory Teff Wraps, Gluten Free Small Tortillas and Food for Life® Brown Rice Tortillas. 1 whole precooked chicken, meat removed from bones and shredded — approximately 4 cups (may use leftover roast or turkey) 1-1 ½ cups gluten-free barbeque sauce, like Bone Suckin' sauce Gluten-free wrap or flatbread (one per person) Optional garnish: sliced red onions, shredded lettuce

1. Heat barbeque sauce in large saucepan over medium heat. Add shredded chicken and cook until heated through, about 8 minutes. 2. Fill wrap with ¾ cup of chicken filling and roll, folding in sides to contain filling.

3. Secure with toothpicks or waxed paper and place in container until ready to eat. Keep refrigerated if not eating within an hour of preparation. PAN-BAGNAT SANDWICH LOAF SERVES: 6-8 The bread for the French-inspired “pan-bagnat sandwich recipe” pronounced (pahn bahn-YAHT) is made from a round loaf of traditionally white bread. Try your favorite gluten-free bread mix shaped in a pie plate or cake pan to achieve the necessary round loaf or purchase Udi’s French Baguettes, Schar Baguettes or Against the Grain Baguette. This is perfect picnic fare or serve it at as part of a party buffet. Vary the ingredients according to your family’s tastes and needs. If cheese is part of your diet, consider adding slices of provolone or feta cheese to the bread mixture. 1 round loaf of gluten-free bread made from your favorite mix or purchased baguettes

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July 2015

NUTRITION Olive oil 1 clove of garlic, sliced thin ½ cup sliced black or green olives ¼ cup capers 1 teaspoon dried basil or 1 tablespoon fresh Optional: sliced mild pickled banana peppers Salt and pepper 1 cup bottled roasted red peppers, drained 1 large tomato, sliced very thin ½ pound sliced gluten-free luncheon meat: salami, turkey, ham or combination 1. Half loaf horizontally to create 2 round pieces of bread 2. Remove most of the bread leaving a 3/8-1/2” shell. Reserve bread pieces in a large bowl. 3. Lay both halves of bread cut side up and drizzle generously with olive oil. Rub garlic into each side. Set aside for one hour. This “waterproofs” the bread so that it does not become soggy with filling ingredients. 4. Add to reserved bread pieces: olives, capers (including 1 tablespoon of caper brine liquid), optional banana peppers, 2 tablespoons olive oil, basil, salt and pepper to taste and toss. 5. Line bread halves with pieces of roasted red peppers followed by tomato slices and luncheon meat. 6. Spoon bread filling mixture into one half of bread and top with second half. Wrap securely in plastic wrap or waxed paper followed by aluminum foil to hold securely. Place on a plate and top with a second plate to act as a weight 7. Refrigerate for 6-8 hours or overnight. Slice into wedges and serve. TARRAGON CHICKEN SALAD WITH APPLES AND WALNUTS SERVES 4 Use this creamy chicken salad as a sandwich filling with your favorite gluten-free bread. You may also stuff it into an avocado half or hollowed tomato or fill a lettuce cup. The sweet apples and grapes add crunch and good nutrition. 2 tablespoons mayonnaise 1/3 cup sour cream substitute or nondairy yogurt such as SO Delicious brand coconut milk yogurt or may use all mayonnaise 1 teaspoon tarragon, dried 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg 2 tablespoons fresh squeezed lemon juice (may use lime) 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped 1/2 cup seedless grapes, sliced in half 1 large apple, cored and diced 3-4 cooked boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2July 2015

inch cubes (about 2 cups) Salt and pepper Lettuce leaves 1. In a large bowl whisk mayonnaise, sour cream substitute, tarragon, nutmeg and lemon juice. 2. Add walnuts, grapes, apple and chicken and fold together. 3. Taste and add salt and pepper to taste. 4. Refrigerate until ready to serve. FRENCH POTATO SALAD SERVES 4-6 Potato salad without mayonnaise is a great picnic salad especially if refrigeration is a concern. This salad tastes better after it has rested for an hour or so. 5 pounds medium red potatoes (unpeeled) 2/3 cup GFCF chicken broth 1/4 cup white wine 1 shallot, minced 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped Vinaigrette Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard 1/3 cup red wine vinegar 3/4 cup olive oil Salt and pepper 1. Boil potatoes in large pot of boiling salted water to cover until tender. Do not overcook. Drain potatoes, peel and slice in 1/4-3/8” slices. 2. Meanwhile, bring broth to a boil; add wine and cook until reduced by half. 3. While potatoes are still warm, toss with chicken broth reduction. After liquid is absorbed, add shallots. 4. Prepare vinaigrette: whisk Dijon mustard and wine vinegar in a small bowl. Slowly add olive oil, whisking to create an emulsion. 5. Toss potatoes and parsley with vinaigrette; season with salt and pepper before serving. THE BEST CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES YIELD: 4 dozen cookies Back by popular demand! Enjoy these chocolate chip cookies. 1 3/4 cups quinoa flakes (or certified gluten-free oatmeal) 1 3/4 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon xanthan gum (unless xanthan or guar gum is in gluten-free flour blend) 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

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NUTRITION feast, continued from page 7 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter or nondairy margarine or shortening 1 cup coconut sugar, Sucanet® or dark brown sugar, firmly packed 1/2 cup granulated sugar 2 large eggs (may use egg replacer) 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 10-ounce package chocolate chips; recommend Enjoy Life Foods brand Optional: 1 cup chopped walnuts 1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. 2. Finely grind quinoa or oatmeal flakes in food processor. Add flour mix, baking soda, xanthan gum, if needed, and salt and blend for 5 seconds. 3. Cream butter/margarine and both sugars in large bowl until well blended. 4. Beat in eggs and vanilla. Gradually mix in dry ingredients. Mix in chocolate chips and walnuts if using. 5. For each cookie, form one rounded tablespoon into a ball (or use small ice cream-type scoop) and place on ungreased baking sheet (recommend lining with parchment paper); flatten slightly. 6. Bake until edges are golden brown, about 12 minutes. Cool on cookie sheets 5 minutes. Transfer to racks and cool completely. Sueson Vess is a professional chef, author/food writer and educator helping people eat healthier, especially those with celiac disease, autism spectrum disorders and others with chronic illnesses. Special Eats provides catering services, educational presentations and monthly cooking classes at FirstHealth Fitness Center. Sueson’s cookbooks include “Special Eats: Simple Delicious Solutions for Gluten & Dairy Free Cooking,” now in its 6th edition, and “Living Without Magazine’s Best Gluten-Free Cookbook." www.specialeats. com; 800.981.5029; Facebook page: Special Eats. Sueson’s homemade bone broth is available at Nature’s Own, Southern Pines.

Blueberry growers across North Carolina are expecting a record crop as they start harvesting for the season, thanks to recent dry weather. “Too much rain at harvest can damage blueberries and ruin a crop,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “Fortunately, the weather is cooperating and we are seeing some of the highest yields and best-tasting berries we’ve had in years.” North Carolina is the seventh-largest producer of blueberries in the nation. In 2012, the state grew 41 million pounds of blueberries. About 75 percent of the state’s crop is sold to fresh markets such as grocery stores, farmers markets and roadside stands. Bill Cline, a plant pathologist at the Horticultural Crops Research Station in Castle Hayne, works with blueberry growers throughout the year. He said consumers should have no trouble finding N.C. blueberries during the next few weeks. Shoppers are encouraged to check labels to see if blueberries were grown in North Carolina, but Cline said that even national brands should be using N.C. blueberries right now because of availability. One of the best ways for consumers to know they are getting locally grown blueberries is to buy berries directly from growers at farmers markets, roadside stands or pickyour-own farms. Many of these growers expect to have crops that last until Labor Day. The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services offers an online directory of farmers markets, roadside stands and pick-your-own farms at www.ncfarmfresh.com. In addition, the department will host two special events

INTRODUCTORY SPECIAL $25 for 10 Days

to celebrate the season. Blueberry Days was held June 18 at

Bikram Yoga is a 90 minute class consisting of 26 hatha yoga postures and 2 breathing exercises in a heated room (105º and approx’ 40% humidity) which aids warming up your body to stretch safely and detox the body. Our state of the art studio uses renewable energy, LED lighting and green flooring. We pride ourselves on creating a supportive environment to help you feel at home during your visit.

190 Bell Ave., Southern Pines, NC 28387 910.246.2007 • www.bikramyogasouthernpines.com 8

nc producing record blueberry crop

the State Farmers Market in Raleigh and will take place again July 10 at the Robert G. Shaw Piedmont Triad Farmers Market in Colfax, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. It will feature free blueberry desserts and information about the state’s blueberry industry. Farmers also will have blueberries available for purchase. More information about North Carolina blueberries is available on the N.C. Blueberry Council’s website, www.northcarolinablueberries.com.

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July 2015

drink up natural, refreshing beverages Whether you’re trying to achieve wellness goals or just looking for simple ways to add more nutrient-rich food sources into your family’s diet, now is the time to dust off that blender or juicer. Naturally sweet and nutritious, watermelon is a great addition to drinks that nourish and replenish the body. For years, health professionals have touted the many benefits found in nature – especially in fruits such as watermelon. But with hectic schedules, it can be hard to reap the rewards of these power foods. Thankfully there are a few helpful contraptions in the kitchen to help you quickly and easily power up your diet. Boasting the benefits of watermelon Whether you need to flush out toxins or reduce bloating, healthy and hydrating watermelon is the all-natural solution conveniently found at your local grocer’s produce section. Packed with arginine and citrulline, watermelon may help improve blood flow. The watermelon’s high water and potassium level may also help the body flush out unwanted fluids. Plus, watermelon is said to have a diuretic effect, which helps the body beat bloating. The following cocktail recipes all feature this star ingredient, which along with other healthful ingredients, offer natural solutions for common conditions. When incorporating these delicious drinks into your family’s diet, use a strong blender when you can. This will help retain essential phytonutrients and antioxidants within the blended mixture. Many conventional juicers require you to throw away the pulp, which means throwing out these bonus health benefits. For more refreshing ways to add nutrients to your diet, visit www.watermelon.org.

July 2015

RED HOT BLOOD CLEANSER Servings: 2 (1-cup) servings 2 cups watermelon chunks 1 small to medium beet, washed 1 apple, seeded and cut into cubes 1 tablespoon apple juice concentrate 1/8-1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (depending on taste) 1/4 teaspoon turmeric Place all ingredients in blender with watermelon on bottom. Turn blender on slow speed until watermelon has liquefied, and then increase speed and blend 1 minute or until liquefied. VEGGIE DE-BLOAT COCKTAIL Servings: 2 (or 2 1/2 cups total) 1/3 medium cucumber, peeled 3 medium carrots, washed 2 celery stalks 1/2 red pepper, washed and seeded 1/4 cup fresh parsley 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro 2 cups watermelon Dash of horseradish In juicer, extract juice from all ingredients. Serve plain or over ice. WATERMELON ZAPPER Servings: 2 (2 1/4 cups total in blender, or 1 3/4 cups total in juicer) 2 cups watermelon cubes 1/3 large lemon, peeled 1 1 /2 tablespoons peeled fresh ginger 2 medium carrots Juice all ingredients in conventional juicer. In blender, place watermelon first, then remaining ingredients. Turn blender on low until watermelon is liquefied, and then gradually increase speed. Blend 2 minutes. Courtesy of Family Features and www.watermelon.org.

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D.I.Y.

rags to riches By Patti Ranck

I was raised in a very practical and thrifty family, a bunch of church group or neighborhood luncheon club! And everyone’s place would look so awesome when you were done! really basic, nuts’n’bolts kind of people. (I have probably We’ll start with two of the most simple of all, the fabric mentioned this before, but it almost bears repeating just to add strip garland and rag wreath. Both require zero sewing skills. a bit of understanding as to why I do some of the things I do). HOW TO MAKE THE GARLAND: Growing up, my brother, sister and I were taught that nothing • An assortment of used fabrics (clothes, sheets, whatever) should ever be wasted. It would be really nice if the world looked at us as visionaries, but most people just tilt their heads a bit and wonder what in the heck would they possibly want with those pieces of junk? Ah, never junk to us — we see potential in everything! Even clothes or linens that are a bit too worn or have a few too many stains to give to charity are worthy of being given new life. You just have to work around the flaws. It’s part of what makes life interesting! If you’re handy at the sewing machine and enjoy doing it, you can make a lovely patchwork quilt; however, I can offer a couple of super simple, fun, no-sew projects that will put this fabric to good use. Simple used garments, draperies, tablecloths, bed linens — even old burlap sacks — can become garlands, flags, wall hangings, mobiles, wreaths, or even throw rugs. They are fun and whimsical and really have that rustic country craft look that so many of us love. Also, since they are made with everything, from old baby receiving blankets and articles of clothing, to curtains, pillow shams and other items from your home, they may hold a certain bit of your family’s history and could make a special and sentimental gift. You can decorate the kids rooms, your 4th of July BBQ bash, a bridal Tools for the craft include: a pile of used, discarded fabrics, ruler, scissors and a shower, birthday parties, your mantle for just cute, furry assistant. about every holiday, your front door — the possibilities and creative variations are in a variety of colors and prints – mix it up. Everything works endless. This really is so very easy, albeit a bit time consuming. But it here (unless you are going for a specific color scheme; Then, yes, pick and choose). would make a great project for family and friends to participate • Optional: scrap/found/used pieces of old trims, ribbons, in. “Many hands make light work.” Have a rag-bag party in the or lace, etc. manner of an old American-style quilting bee. Have everyone • Jute twine come with a bag of old fabric items from their home, ruler, That’s pretty much it! scissors, jute, hangers, snack and drinks for all to share. Fabrics 1. There are a lot of tutorials online for this, and most of can be sorted and crafts made into holiday themes or in your them recommend measuring and marking in the direction of favorite sports team colors or to decorate a new baby’s nursery. the grain of the fabric at typically 2” intervals all the way across Who knows? You could start a new tradition with your family,

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July 2015

the length of the fabric and then ripping to get the strips. They claim it gives the fabric a lovely rusticrough edging that adds extra character, and it does. However, I have found that, especially depending on type of fabric, it is sometimes difficult to rip, and it does not always rip straight with the grain, so the strips are often very uneven. Really, it only works well on fairly thin woven cottons, like sheets. So, in my own OCD little way, I just use the scissors to cut 2” strips of fabric down the entire length of material. I usually lay several fabrics on top of each other to speed the process along, cutting through all at one time. Just be sure you do not make the fabric stack so thick that it becomes difficult to cut through, as this will cause your strips to come out uneven. Then, so I do not end up with an overly stiff, just-cut looking line, I pull bunches of strips through my hand to rough up the edges slightly. Instant rustic look. Length depends on which project you are making, but for the average garland, I would suggest 9”-14” lengths. And you don’t have to be perfectly precise on this. I find it looks even more interesting to have several pieces vary in length a bit here and there. Stagger the lengths if you like. You may want to accentuate that handmade look. Work with what you have to get the most strips out of each fabric. On the other hand, if you prefer the entire garland to be even in length, then yes, measure as closely as possible, but then it is easiest to trim it all after assembling (no one can ever tie all of those strips exactly perfectly; you’d go bonkers trying). 2. Keep cutting those fabric strips! Be sure you have a LOT! Measure the area you’d like to decorate and leave a long length of extra jute on either side for hanging (or in case you’d like to add more fabric strips at some point). Tie a knot in the jute as your starting point. 3. Now start tying knots — and don’t stop! After I tie my first fabric strip, I take a the end of the jute (where I’ve made my “end” knot) and tie a knot around the 1st fabric knot to be sure they don’t all eventually slide down the twine. Keep pushing the tied strips together. You’ll want to make it as full as possible. When you like how it looks, it’s done! Fluff and hang. Instant festive décor! For extra wow factor, wrap around a strand of fairy lights! Oooo, ahhh! HOW TO MAKE THE WREATH: • Same assortment of fabrics and scraps as above • An old wire hanger July 2015

1. Prepare the fabric strips per directions above except cut to approximately 5”-7” in length, depending on how small or large the diameter of your wire circle. Play around with a few tester strips and see what appeals to you. The wreath typically looks better with all strips the same length, but you may like a varied look. I say go for it. 2. You can pull the hanger from a triangular shape into a circular shape, and use the hook to hang your wreath, or if you want a smaller wreath, or would rather not have any part of the actual hanger showing on the finished wreath, carefully open up the hanger (or if it is glued or soldered, cut with snips), overlap the wire to desired size and twist together to fasten and create a circle in the size you want. Tie a ribbon for a pretty wreath hanger. 3. Yup. Start tying knots. There are many riffs on the theme and some great tutorials to be found online. So stop adding those old clothes to the landfill and start saving for your next creation! Embellish these in any way that strikes your fancy and suits your personality, for any holiday or occasion or just to add a bit of extra cheer to the everyday. Check out these links: Shaggy rag rug at amumslifelovelaughs. wordpress.com, DIY fabric strip lampshade at www.hometalk.com, and eco-friendly bath mat at www. finecraftguild.com. These fun items, along with an upcycled Rag Flag I also made, will be used to add an extra festive feeling to our family 4th of July celebration. They’re kinda like little fabric fireworks! Happy Birthday America! Patti Ranck is an artist & a dreamer who blends her love of nature & her passion for repurposing into the celebrations of life. She can help you create your one-of-a-kind celebration. indigoearthevents@icloud.com or 910.638.8322

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day tripping through the sandhills and beyond By Karen Gilchrist

of hiking trails, over six miles of bike trails, boating, fishing, It’s summertime, and the central location of our beautiful swimming, picnic shelters, diverse animal habitat, including Sandhills area provides easy access to plenty of natural American bald eagles attractions: white sandy beaches to the east and ancient Hanging Rock State Park mountains to the west, perfect for a quick or extended (www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/haro/main.php) 1790 vacation. But work and school schedules, time and tight Hanging Rock Park Road, Danbury/336.593.8480. Over budgets don’t always allow for that trip – even a weekend 15 miles of hiking trails, four miles of bridle trails, fishing, getaway. Relaxing staycations at home can be a great swimming, rock climbing, rowboat and canoe rental, waterfalls, alternative, but why not pack a picnic, load up the car and visitor's center, interpretive programs, picnic shelters, historic hit the road for a daytrip? One can find destinations and bath house activities sure to please all ages a short drive away within the Jones Lake State Park Sandhills region – and just beyond. The list below provides just (www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/jone/main.php) 4117 Hwy a sampling of the many options for discovery and taking that 242 N, Elizabethtown/910.588.4550. Six miles of hiking important time out to get back to nature. trails, fishing, small boating, canoe and paddleboat rentals, PARKS picnicking, educational and interpretive programs (Hiking, swimming, canoeing/boating, picnicking, Jordan Lake State Recreation Area horseback riding, fishing – and more!) (www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/jord/main.php) 280 State Carolina Beach State Park Park Road, Apex/919.362.0586. (www.ncparks. Sixteen miles of hiking trails, gov/Visit/parks/cabe/ fishing, swimming, boating, picnic main.php) 1010 State shelters,13,900-acre reservoir, home Park Road, Carolina to American bald eagles Beach/910.458.8206. Kerr Lake State Recreation Nearly six miles of hiking Area trails, boating, dock (www.ncparks.gov/Visit/ fishing, swimming, parks/kela/main.php) 6254 picnicking, visitor's Satterwhite Point Road, center with exhibit hall, Henderson/252.438.7791. Nature interpretive programs, paths, accessible facilities, boating, rare plants, including fishing, swimming, picnicking, Venus flytrap educational and interpretive Cliffs of the programs Neuse State Park One of several hiking trails at Carolina Beach State Park. Lake Waccamaw State Park (www.ncparks.gov/ (www.ncparks.gov/Visit/ Visit/parks/clne/main.php) parks/lawa/main.php) 1866 State Park Drive, Lake 240 Park Entrance Road, Seven Springs/919.778.6234. Four Waccamaw/910.646.4748. Over nine miles of hiking hiking trails, each less than one mile in length; standup paddle boards; boating; fishing; swimming; picnicking; educational and trails, wheelchair-accessible boardwalk, fishing, picnicking, interpretive programs, visitor's center, exhibit hall, rare plants interpretive programs and animals Eno River State Park Lumber River State Park (www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/enri/main.php) 6101 Cole (www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/luri/main.php) 2819 Mill Road, Durham/919.383.1686. Over 20 miles of hiking Princess Ann Road, Orrum, 910.628.4564/910.628.5643. Over trails, canoe access, fishing, historic homestead, mill sites, four miles of hiking trails, small boating, canoeing, fishing, interpretive, picnic shelter picnicking, educational and interpretive programs Falls Lake State Recreation Area Mayo River State Park (www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/fala/main.php) 13304 (www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/mari/main.php) 500 Old Creedmoor Rd., Wake Forest/919.676.1027. Twelve miles 12

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July 2015

EXPLORE interpretive programs Mayo Park Road, Mayodan/336.427.2530. Over two miles of AGRITOURISM hiking trails, fishing, picnicking Spend some time on the farm! Visit with alpacas, sheep Medoc Mountain State Park and goats, or pick your own fruit or vegetables. Learn about (www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/memo/main.php) 1541 grapes in one of NC’s many vineyards. The links Medoc State Park Road, below provide opportunities to learn where Hollister/252.586.6588. Over your food comes from. Be sure to check each 10 miles of hiking trails, farm’s website or call as hours and events vary canoeing, fishing, picnicking, by season. interpretive programs, rocks Greenlands Farm and minerals www.greenlandsfarmstore.info, 668 Morrow Mountain Midway Rd SE, Bolivia. 910.253.7934 - Hardly State Park two hours from Fayetteville, Greenlands Farm (www.ncparks. is a great stop on the way to the beach. gov/Visit/parks/momo/ The modern homestead farm is involved main.php) 49104 in agritourism to educate and serve the Morrow Mountain Road, community. It offers a petting farm (and pony Albemarle/704.982.4402. and horse rides) for the kids on Saturdays Sixteen miles of hiking trails, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. featuring rescued 15 miles of bridle trails, pool, animals, and has a wonderful farmstore rowboat and canoe rentals, with homemade ice cream, deli sandwiches boating, fishing, visitor's and other goodies, and fresh-from-thecenter, three picnic shelters farm produce. The farm also offers camps, Occoneechee Henry Burkert introduces goats to young visitors workshops and classes, as well as homestead Mountain State Natural during a Greenlands Farm tour. dinners. Just a few miles down the road, hop Area (www.ncparks.gov/Visit/ parks/ocmo/main.php) 625 Virginia Cates Road, Hillsborough/919.383.1686. Nearly three miles of hiking trails, includes oak forest, pond, field, heath bluff, and river habitats, highest point in Orange County (867 feet), fishing, picnicking, educational and interpretive programs Pilot Mountain State Park (www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/pimo/main.php) 1792 Pilot Knob Park Road, Pinnacle/336.325.2355/336.325.2361. Hiking and bridle trails, canoeing, mountain biking, fishing, rock climbing, picnicking, educational and interpretive programs Singletary Lake State Park (www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/sila/main.php) 6707 NC 53 Hwy. East, Kelly/910.669.2928. Easy one-mile hiking trail, Now offering: group swimming, fishing, canoeing/kayaking, educational and • Nutrition Coaching • Massage Therapy interpretive programs Uwharrie National Forest • Wellness Coaching • Exercise is Medicine (www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/nfsnc/null/ recarea/?recid=48934&actid=30), Uwharrie Ranger District For more information or to make an Office, 789 NC Highway 24/27 East, Troy. Hiking, bridle trails, appointment, call (910) 715-1811. Visit us mountain biking, boating, fishing, swimming, picnicking, disc online at www.firsthealth.org/fitness golf, geocaching, letterboxing, OHV riding William B. Umstead State Park (www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/wium/main.php) 8801 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh/919.571.4170. Over 19 miles of hiking trails, 13 miles of bridle and biking trails, fishing, rowboat 1017-101-14 and canoe rentals, picnic shelters, visitor center, exhibit hall,

Wellness Services

July 2015

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on the new bridge to Oak Island and enjoy the day at the beach. NC Farm Fresh – A directory of pick-your-own farms, roadside farm markets, and farmers markets throughout North Carolina – http://ncfarmfresh.com/ North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services – Agritourism www.ncagr.gov/ NCproducts/CatSubDirectory.asp?CatNum=1011 North Carolina – Pick Your Own – A directory of pick-your-own farms and orchards for fruit, vegetables and pumpkins, as well as canning and freezing instructions – www. pickyourown.org/NC.htm Orange Pippin – A directory of orchards and farms where apples, pears, plums, cherries, and more are grown – www.orangepippin.com/orchards/united-states/north-carolina Visit the Farm – Agritourism – Directory from the official NC Tourism Website – www.visitnc.com/visit-the-farm MUSEUMS AND SCIENCE EXHIBITS Gaze at the stars, pan for gold, walk among butterflies, take a selfie with a dinosaur skeleton or step back in time at any of the many museums within a short driving distance of the Sandhills. Cowan Museum of History and Science, (www.cowanmuseum.org), 411 South Main St.,

Your Community Solution to Animal Overpopulation! The Companion Animal Clinic Foundation makes affordable spay and neuter available at the Spay Neuter Veterinary Clinic thanks to your support. Donate at www.companionanimalclinic.org or call 910.692.3499 (FIXX).

Spay Neuter Veterinary Clinic Surpassing 45,000 surgeries since opening in 2008 5071 US HWY #1, Vass, NC Companion Animal Clinic Foundation PO Box 148, Southern Pines, NC 28388 info@companionanimalclinic.org 501c3# 20-2886984

Kenansville/910.296.2149 Imagination Station Science & History Museum (http://scienceandhistory.org), 224 Nash St. E, Wilson/252.291.5113 Morehead Planetarium and Science Center (http://moreheadplanetarium.org/), 250 E Franklin St, Chapel Hill/919.962.1236 Museum of Anthropology (http://moa.wfu. edu), Wake Forest University, Wingate Road, WinstonSalem/336.758.5282 Greensboro Science Center Aquarium, Museum, Zoo (www.greensboroscience.org), 4301 Lawndale Drive, Greensboro/336.288.3769 Museum of Life and Science (http://lifeandscience. org), 433 W. Murray Avenue, Durham/919.220.5429 North Carolina Botanical Garden (http://ncbg.unc. edu), 100 Old Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill/919.962.0522 North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences (http://naturalsciences.org), 11 West Jones Street, Raleigh/919.707.9800 North Carolina Zoo (www.nczoo.org), 4401 Zoo Pkwy, Asheboro/800.488.0444 Raulston Arboretum at NC State University (http://jcra.ncsu.edu/index.php), 4415 Beryl Road, Raleigh/919.515.3132 The Rankin Museum of American Heritage (www.rankinmuseum.org),131 West Church Street, Ellerbe/910.652.6378 Reed Gold Mine (www.nchistoricsites.org/reed/reed. htm), 9621 Reed Mine Road, Midland/704.721.GOLD (4653) SciWorks (http://sciworks.org) 400 West Hanes Mill Road, Winston-Salem/336.767.6730 Town Creek Indian Mound (www.nchistoricsites. org/town/town.htm), 509 Town Creek Mound Road, Mt. Gilead/910.439.6802 Ready to hit the road? Your next natural adventure is just a couple of hours away. And upon returning from your “daycation,” you’ll still find plenty to do here at home. In each issue of “Sandhills Naturally,” we include a local area or attraction to explore – some of them having just recently opened! Visit our website and read past issues to discover places to visit in our own back yard (www.sandhillsnaturally. com/issue-archives.html). Have a favorite spot in our area to share? Let us know, and perhaps we can highlight it in a future issue. Happy travels! Karen Gilchrist is a writer, yoga instructor and longtime resident of Southern Pines.

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July 2015

WELLNESS

traveling with essential oils

TIPS FOR TRAVELING WITH AND USING ESSENTIAL OILS ON THE ROAD By Kelli Edwards Summertime to our busy family means juggling with the us and keep us calm. Once we get into the car, I place a few kids out of school, too much digital, adjusting to everyone drops of lavender on a cotton ball and put it in the vent. This being around each other and lots of creativity to keep everyone helps keep everyone calm. The driver keeps peppermint handy happy. I have just returned from my first solo camping weekend to stay awake and alert. Wherever we are off to, we are usually with my two boys. It was super fun, but I have to give my leaving early in the morning when it is still dark. essential oils a lot of credit as it helped us all in so many ways! You never know if someone is going to get allergies where I take this case with all of you are traveling, so you always my oils with me wherever I go. want to have your LLP — lemon, It holds 10 essential oils and two lavender and peppermint — with roll-ons. I love this kit, and you you. Sometimes when you are on can also travel on the plane with the road or in the airports the water your oils. The 15ml bottles are is horrible, so you can add some under 3 ounces. I have never had lemon, peppermint or wild orange a problem carrying my bottles on to your water. It is healthy, cleansing a plane. The 10 oils I have in there and kills the taste of the water. You are all the oils in doTerra's Family want to make sure you drink lots of Physcian Kit (5 ml bottles) or the water while you are traveling. Water Natural Solutions Kit with 15ml will help the body adjust to time bottles, which are lemon, lavender, changes and keep you hydrated. peppermint, frankincense, Here are some more suggestions Essential travel kit for oils on the go. melaleuca, oregano, OnGuard, for oils to use while traveling this Digestzen, Deep Blue and Breathe. summer: The two roll-ons are Peaceful Child Blend and the InTune® Staying alert: doTERRA peppermint beadlets, Citrus Bliss, Blend. I have a few others that I like to bring with me as well. peppermint, frankincense First let's take a minute and discuss essential oil safety. Keep immune system strong: OnGuard, Life Long Vitality Always keep oils out of your eyes, ears and nose. Read the Pack (doTERRA's vitamins), OnGuard Throat Drops labels and dilute when necessary and remember less is more; Keep kids calm: Lavender, Serenity, wild orange and you only need 1-3 drops of Essential Oils. There are three ways bergamot to use essential oils: Happy parents: Wild orange, lemon, Elevation, Balance and Aromatically is the quickest, as it goes right through the ylang ylang olfactory system and takes effect immediately. You can change Car or motion sickness: DigestZen, peppermint, ginger moods, and they kill airborne pathogens; you can use a diffuser Camping must haves: TerraShield, OnGuard, lavender and or just open a bottle and inhale. lemon The next way is topically; just apply on the hands or feet Happy traveling! or area of concern; dilute if recommended or for children and Kelli Edwards, owner of Pure Phoenix Cleanse & Wellness, is a people with sensitive skin. You can apply every 15 minutes for health enthusiast with a passion for helping people achieve optimum acute problems or every 3-4 hours, or as needed. health. She helps people through yoga instruction, as a colon therapist You may also take high-quality therapeutic-grade oils and as an advocate and educator on essential oils. She loves taking internally in water, with honey or in a clear gel capsule. care of her family, enjoys reading and learning about all aspects of Most of our trips are road trips, but we do fly occasionally, health, creating new recipes, yoga, dancing, music and nature. so these tips apply to both. We start the morning by putting a blend called Balance on the back of our necks, to help ground

July 2015

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EXPLORE

jones family farm HARNETT COUNTY'S ONLY CERTIFIED ORGANIC FARM by Joy G. Crowe Building houses in the Baltimore area in 2007, Matt Jones had no idea that in just five short years, he would find himself building something different — a life, and a business, as the only certified organic farmer in Harnett County, North Carolina. In 2008, Matt Jones decided to make the move south to North Carolina with his parents, who wanted to be closer to their grandkids and Matt’s sister who lives in Harnett County. The time was right to sell their house up north, just before the house market tanked, and they found a nice piece of land here. So they loaded up the truck and moved to Broadway. Turning the 14 acres of land into Jones Family Farm just happened, well, kind of organically. “My father started a garden, and it was too much for him to handle, so I started working in it, and before long, we were giving vegetables to the neighbors. Eventually, there was so much, the neighbors got tired of taking food and suggested we start selling it,” said Matt, now age 43. “I took some classes at CCCC and met Doug Jones, who had a farm at the biodiesel plant in Pittsboro.” Doug Jones’ Piedmont Biofarm was an inspiration to Matt Jones. Matt has now been growing food for six years, and selling it for two. The decision to grow organic was an easy one

because of his desire to feed his family clean food. “I don’t think we need all those chemicals. I don’t want to give my money to the people who produce them, or help people to consume them. The main thing is I get to feed my family clean food, and a lot of my neighbors, too. I’m just kind of anti-corporate, so organic farming works well for me. I get to work at home and not buy a lot of gasoline. I have a sustainable home. We use solar power. To me, that’s what it is all about.” He also thought there was a market here for organic. “I thought I would try it as an organic farmer and that would give me a competitive edge. Everyone said that people here wanted organic,” said Matt. “But I’m still trying to find them.” Jones Family Farm spans 14 acres, featuring six and a quarter acres that are growable in cleared fields. The farm truly is a “family farm,” with Matt’s mom and dad helping out, along with his sister and nieces and nephew. They grow everything — from potatoes to artichokes. “Last year our spring crop did pretty good — lettuce, cabbage, broccoli, spinach, carrots — quite a variety.” Jones Family Farm works hard to make the farm environmentally friendly and sustainable. They don’t use any synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, only natural soil enhancements. The farm is powered by solar power that they produce on site. Every effort is made to use as little fuel as possible and maintain a managed carbon footprint to reduce the impact on the environment. Matt Jones and his niece at the Jones Family Farm produce stand on Hwy 27.

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July 2015

from 9-1. Jones Family Farm also has its own CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) program that runs in six-week blocks. For $100, you get a produce box every Friday for six weeks. There are currently 25 participants in the CSA, but Matt hopes to be feeding 100 families this time next year. “We’ve been two years in business. Farms are expected to make money around five to seven years. If things keep going, I’ll be able to pay myself at the four-year mark. If I can get 100 families buying in the CSA, that would really help get us there.” To pick out your own fresh, local and certified organic produce, visit the Jones Family Farm produce stand at 12604 NC 27 W, Broadway, North Carolina. Matt Jones' neighbor, Kim Holland Batchelor, snapped this photo It’s located in Western Harnett County, not far from of his truck full of several different types of organic potatoes. Western Harnett High School. Keep up with what’s growing and going on at the farm “We are solar powered for the most part. The house we on Facebook at www.facebook.com/pages/Jones-Familylive in is really efficient, and was probably one of the most Farm/585413488245278?fref=ts. efficient in the state when it was built. I want to recapture Joy Crowe is the publisher of Sandhills Naturally, a mother water eventually, but you have to phase things in,” Matt said. of two, a native of Cumberland County and long-time resident A typical day, according to Matt, goes like this: Plant of Harnett County. 1 www.recorder.com/readerservices/ something, remove weeds, pick something, do paperwork, eat businessxml/16403849-95/its-a-lose-lose-situation-vastdinner, sleep. Although the certified organic process requires majority-of-csa-farmers-dont-make-living-wage an hour a day minimum of paperwork, becoming “certified organic” wasn’t too difficult for the farm. “It wasn’t too hard because I already adhered to the principals; the land was already clean. You have to have three EXPLORE: years without using any synthetic products. It wasn’t terrible. Jones Family Farm 12604 NC 27 W, Broadway, NC The biggest hit is the paperwork and record keeping. The 919.721.1629 bureaucracy is the hardest part. The growing organically isn’t www.jonesff.com the hard part. It gets easier every year as the land comes back,” www.facebook.com/pages/Jones-Familysaid Matt. Farm/585413488245278?fref=ts. “Really, the hardest part is that you are subject to the neighboring farmers' habits as well. A neighboring tobacco farmer fumigated this year and killed all the bees. We had a lot of bees and cherry trees and a few days after their fumigating, the bees were gone. Tobacco fumigation affects about a half a mile around the area. Eventually the bees came back.” As some of our readers may already know, it’s also not easy to make a living as a farmer. Usually with small farms, one family member still has to work outside of the farm to make a living wage. (A recent study by a University of Massachusetts doctoral student reported more than 80 percent of full-time CSA farmers aren’t making a livable wage.1) In addition to selling at the Fuquay Farmers Market, Matt also has set up his own produce stand at his farm on Saturdays

July 2015

Come Visit Our New Location! Colon Hydrotherapy • Ionic Foot Detox • Massage • Cranio-Sacral 910-849-8891 Formerly Waterdragon Wellness, now open at our new location.

www.SandhillsNaturally.com

305 Owen Drive, Fayetteville NC purephoenixcleanse@gmail.com

FirstHealth Fitness TWO DECADES OF COMMITMENT TO FITNESS by Karen Gilchrist FirstHealth Fitness, with facilities in Pinehurst, Southern

me, and the price doesn’t come into it. This is the price for the

Pines, Raeford, Rockingham and Troy, celebrates a milestone

amount of time we’re going to do. We made massage therapy

in 2015 – 20 years of its commitment to fitness. John Caliri,

how you need it, based on your input and the expert’s input.”

Director of Health and Fitness, FirstHealth of the Carolinas,

The Southern Pines facility is an 18+ center, offering

has served in some capacity with the

group exercise, an aquatic enter and

center since 1995. He identifies what

educational lectures on a variety of

makes FirstHealth Fitness different

health and wellness topics, as well

from other fitness centers.

as on-site acupuncture and massage

“Probably the most important

services and yoga options.

thing is that we, as part of the

“We have yoga at all of our

hospital, work to integrate your

facilities,” says Caliri. “Our manager at

fitness with the rest of your medical

the Southern Pines facility, Cinnamon

care. We do that with permission

LeBlanc Young, has been teaching

from people and with contact with

yoga in the area for a long time and is

their physicians and the special

very experienced, as are all the other

programs that we have. That’s a

instructors there.”

key factor in what sets us apart as a

Kari Garbark, Program Manager

fitness center.”

and 14-year veteran at FirstHealth

The two centers in Moore County

Fitness, oversees the massage therapy,

offer something for everyone. The

Exercise is Medicine (EiM) program,

63,000-square-foot flagship facility

wellness coaching and nutrition services

in Pinehurst offers CrossFit/TRX,

and all the other programs at the

group exercise programs (from aqua

center.

aerobics and BODYPUMP to yoga and

“All of our services have been

Zumba), children’s programs, personal

available, but we’ve partnered them

training and nutrition services, special

and positioned them to be together

FirstHealth Fitness in Southern Pines offers events like races and massage therapy. something for every body. “We believe that massage is

and under the umbrella of wellness

an important part of wellness in

to help the folks that need some help

healthcare and can play a role in your good health,” Caliri says. “We have massage therapists that are clinically oriented in

services. They are partnered together

getting through their health and fitness experience.” The experts and members collaborate to put together

nature, so they have certifications in oncology, pre- and post-

the things that the member is going to need to be successful,

natal massage and sports massage.

whether new to exercise or new to the center.

“One of the things that we’ve done recently in that area is that we have taken our massage pricing and put a price for a

That collaboration is especially evident in the EiM program. “Referral forms are available on our website,” Caliri says.

time frame. In most cases, you buy a certain type of massage,

“If someone gets a referral from their physician, we have a

you go in and that’s the massage you get from your therapist.

program that will work with them at no cost for a certain

What we’re trying to foster is, if I were going to get a massage,

amount of time. We come up with a program to deal with

I could go in and talk to the expert, the massage therapist,

whatever issue the physician wants to improve. The program

and that therapist and I can work out together what’s best for

can be set up for them anywhere, so they may be a member of

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July 2015

another facility in the area or exercise at home or outside — it doesn’t matter to us. We’ll run this at no charge to encourage people to work with their physician on their fitness plan and make fitness a part of their healthcare." “It’s really neat to have all those experts under one roof to help people navigate where they want to go,” says Garbark. Noting that the facility can be intimidating, she says, “…once people get in the door and realize that people here are all different shapes, sizes, ages and abilities, they really can be very comfortable here. Both professionals and members want to see everyone succeed.” Caliri has seen a big shift over the past two decades with respect to fitness. “Ten to 15 years ago, the people who were active in fitness were those who were athletically focused for some reason — tied to athletes wanting to improve their golf game or run a 5k. What we’ve seen is where it used to be for the enthusiast, now fitness has become more for everybody.” For more information, visit www.firsthealth.org/fitness or call 910.715.1800.

EXPLORE: FirstHealth Fitness 170 Memorial Drive, Pinehurst, 910.715.1800 205 Davis Road, Southern Pines, 910.692.6129 Also in Raeford, Rockingham and Troy http://www.firsthealth.org/fitness/ https://www.facebook.com/FHCFitness

Karen Gilchrist is a writer, yoga instructor and longtime resident of Southern Pines.

CARY • RALEIGH • FAYETTEVILLE ASK about our SUMMER iLASIK SPECIAL & FREE Consultation

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD PET STORE

One Free Bag of Woof Gang Bakery Treats Must have coupon to redeem. Good thru July 31, 2015. Fayetteville Location Only.

Full Service Grooming, Self Wash Room, Grain Free Foods, Toys, Treats, Collars, Leashes and More

910-860-1200

1216 Fort Bragg Rd. - Haymount - Fayetteville

www.WGBFay.com July 2015

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resource guide ANIMAL HEALTH & WELLNESS Spay Neuter Veterinary Clinic Offering affordable spay and neuter for the Sandhills area. Call for an appointment, 910.692.3499 (FIXX), 5071 US Hwy 31, Vass. Donate at www.companionanimalclinic.org Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming. Your neighborhood pet store with full-service grooming, self-wash room, grain-free foods, treats, toys and more. 1216 Ft. Bragg Rd., Fayetteville. 910.860.1200, www.WGBFay.com. CHILDREN & EDUCATION The Griffin Academy: A Montessori Learning Experience. The only nonparochial, non-profit Montessori school serving students in Harnett and Lee County. Now enrolling for Fall 2015. Moving to the Spout Springs area of Western Harnett County! 919.499.1032, www.thegriffinacademy.org CHIROPRACTIC CARE Southern Pines Chiropractic, Dr. Joseph Wahl. Offering full-service chiropractic care, licensed massage therapists and nutritional counseling. 361 N. Bennett St., Southern Pines. 910.692.5207, www. ncchiro.com, drwahl@embarqmail.com COLON HYDROTHERAPY Pure Phoenix Cleanse & Wellness Center, offering Colon Hydrotherapy and Ionic Foot Detox. 305 Owen Dr., Fayetteville. 910.849.8891, purephoenixcleanse@ gmail.com ESSENTIAL OILS Joy Crowe, Wellness Advocate for dōTERRA Essential Oils. IPC# 1318413. 910.551.2883, www.mydoterra.com/sandhillsnc Kelli Edwards, Wellness Advocate for dōTERRA Essential Oils. IPC#446470.

910.644.2307, www.mydoterra.com/ detoxdiva EVENT PLANNING Indigo Earth Events, LLC - Party Sustainably! Offering "green" event styling, custom decor, rentals for weddings/social/corporate events. By appointment, 910.638-8322, indigoearthevents@icloud.com. www. facebook.com/indigoearthevents EYE HEALTH Cape Fear Eye Associates offers complete eye and vision care — from children’s eye exams and pediatric eye muscle surgery to cataract surgery, glaucoma treatment and LASIK. 1726 Metro Medical Dr., Fayetteville. 910.484.2284 or 800.829.2284, www.capefeareye.com HEALTH & FITNESS First Health Fitness, 170 Memorial Dr., Pinehurst. 910.715.1800, www.firsthealth.org/fitness HEALTH & WELLNESS Guiding Wellness, Inc., Wellness Consulting~Holistic Life Coaching and Therapy. "A holistic-centered therapeutic environment committed to the discovery, recovery and maintenance of living in balance." 3710 Morganton Rd., Ste. 110, Fayetteville. 910.864.6257, guidingwellness@yahoo.com MASSAGE THERAPISTS Michael Edwards, Intuitive Energetic Healer at Deeproots Bodywork, 5004 Spruce Dr., Fayetteville. 910.644.5181 ReNewU Wellness Spa, Gina Allen, L.M.T. # 6737, Specializing in Russian Medical & Deep Tissue Massage. Check our facebook page for menu of services and specials. 100B Wicker St., Sanford. 910.964.3194, www.facebook.com/ ReNewYouWellnessSpaSalon

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Sandhills Therapeutic Effects, Amie O'Connor, LMBT. 237 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. 919.478.5647, www.facebook. com/sandhillstherapeuticeffects, sandhillstherapeuticeffects@gmail.com NATURAL FOODS Nature's Own Natural Foods Market offers a wide selection of natural, organic and herbal food products, teas and remedies, hard-to-find herbs, roots and spices, supplements & more. The Kitchen lunch counter and Juice Bar. 195 Bell Ave., Southern Pines. 910.692.3811, www.naturesowninc.com NATURAL PARENTING Prana Doula, Ashley Keith, RPYT, CD, LCCE, Lamaze-certified birth doula, childbirth education & pregnancy yoga. 222 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. 910.585.4084, www.pranayogadoula.com Sugar Plums Mom, Cloth diapers, nursing supplies, slings and wraps, toys & more. 910.684.8016, 222 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. www.facebook.com/sugarplumsmom PRODUCE DELIVERY Sandhills Farm to Table. Eat fresh, locally grown produce. Now taking subscriptions for spring co-op boxes. 910.722.1623, info@sandhillsfarm2table.com, www.sandhillsfarm2table.com RESTAURANTS Call Sandhills Naturally to list your business here. 910.551.2883 www.sandhillsnaturally.com SUSTAINABLE LIVING Sustainable Sandhills is a nonprofit on a mission to preserve the environment of the Sandhills through education, demonstration and collaboration through four core program areas: Clean Air, Clean

July 2015

resource guide Water, Green Schools, Green Business. 351 Wagoner Dr., 2nd Floor, Suite 332-334, Fayetteville. 910.484.9098, info@sustainablesandhills.org, www.sustainablesandhills.org VITAMINS & SUPPLEMENTS Whole-food based nutrition, through Juice Plus+, including juice powder concentrates from 25 different fruits, vegetables and grains. And grow your own good health with the Tower Garden! www.jcrowe.juiceplus.com and jcrowe.towergarden.com YOGA STUDIOS Bikram Yoga. 190 Bell Ave., Southern Pines.

"Free the child's potential, and you will transform him into the world." â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Maria Montessori

continued

910.246.2007, www. bikramyogasouthernpines. com Southern Pines Yoga Company, 169 Beverly Lane, Southern Pines. 910.246-0065, 910.639.1089. contact@southernpinesyoga. com www.southernpinesyoga.com WRITING & EDITING SERVICES Plays with Words: Writing, editing and proofreading. Over 25 years' experience. Karen Gilchrist, 910.638.6397, playswithwords@embarqmail. com Born out of a love for deep transformation and service, Southern Pines Yoga Co. is committed to meeting you where you are and taking you forward to where and who you want to be. We value all schools of yoga and aim to offer classes and workshops accessible for people in all stages in life. Classes offered seven days a week.

169 Beverly Lane, Southern Pines, NC 28387 The Shops of Southern Pines ~ Next to The Fresh Market 910.246.0065 â&#x20AC;˘ www.southernpinesyoga.com

Natural Parenting in a Modern World Cloth diapers, nursing supplies, slings & wraps, gifts, toys & more.

griffin Academy

the

a montessori learning experience

Now Registering Ages 2-12 for Fall 2015. Half-day programs, extended-care and military discounts. Coming soon to a new location in the Spout Springs area of Western Harnett County! Experience the joy of learning the Montessori way! At The Griffin Academy we invite children ages 2 through 12 to an exciting and friendly Montessori program based on respect, self-direction and cooperative activities. Experiences like gardening, yoga and music allow children the opportunity to learn from their environment. As the only non-parochial, non-profit, private Montessori school serving both Harnett and Lee County families, our goal is to help students develop a strong self-image, high levels of academic and social competence, and the ability to face challenges with optimism and confidence. Our innovative curriculum, family-oriented community and responsive staff help students achieve their potential. Education is more than a test. Ignite curiosity at The Griffin Academy. To learn more, call now to schedule a tour.

919-499-1032 www.thegriffinacademy.org The Griffin Academy does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin. It admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.

910.684.8016 222 W. Pennsylvania Ave. Southern Pines, NC 28387 www.facebook.com/sugarplumsmom Offering Childbirth Education classes and events for expectant families with Ashley Keith, CD(DONA), LCCE

July 2015

www.SandhillsNaturally.com

CALENDAR

calendar of events • july

FRIDAY First Friday in Southern Pines, 5-8:30 p.m. A family-friendly event. Live music, food & beverages, entertainment. Free admission. Sunrise Green Space (the grassy knoll adjacent to the Sunrise Theater). Inside Sunrise Theater if rain. 250 NW Broad St., Southern Pines.

SATURDAY Independence Day! Happy Birthday America! There are many celebrations in the Sandhills area. Check with your closest town for events near you. Aberdeen July 4th Celebration, 5:30 p.m.; Benson Celebration and Fireworks at dark; Carthage Parade, 11 a.m.; Ft. Bragg Celebration and Fireworks, 3-10 p.m., Main Post Parade Field; Lillington 4th of Jully Celebration on the Cape Fear River, 2 p.m.; Pinehurst Parade, 9 a.m. (Tuft Memorial Park), 4th of July Celebration, 6 p.m. (Pinehurst Harness Track). Ravens and Star Spangled Banners, 10 a.m. Did you know that Benjamin Franklin, a founder of our nation, once wanted to have the wild turkey as the National Bird? How about the fact that Raven Rock was originally called Patterson’s Rock? Goodness, and did you know that the US Flag has undergone 26 revisions since 1777? Come and learn about the different symbols of our nation and state park as we celebrate Independence Day! Meet at the visitor center. Raven Rock State Park, 3009 Raven Rock Rd., Lillington. 910.893.4888.

SUNDAY Nature’s Light Show, 3 p.m. The 4th of July weekend is a great time for fireworks, but nature can also put on a great light show. From fireflies to mushrooms, learn about some of the living things that exhibit the awesome phenomenon of bioluminescence. Weymouth WoodsSandhills Nature Preserve, 1024 Ft. Bragg Rd., Southern Pines. 910.692.2167 22

WEDNESDAY Join us for sunset yoga at the millpond from 7 to 8 p.m. Meet on the front lawn of the Rockefeller home a few minutes before class begins at 7 p.m. (Allow approximately 15 minutes to walk from the parking lot to the lawn.) Wear comfortable clothes and bring a mat and water; you may wish to bring bug repellent as well. Open to all levels. Some yoga props will be available. Free. Carvers Creek State Park, 2505 Long Valley Rd., Spring Lake. 910.436.4681

SATURDAY Nature Journaling III-Observing Birds, 3 p.m. If you want to study our local birds without an early morning wake up (or a late-afternoon heat wave), then drop by for our third nature journaling program this summer, “Observing Birds.” Take your time to observe, feel, discover, and draw a variety of bird eggs and nests, and study skins up close in the auditorium. Bring your own unlined journal and drawing implements, or borrow ours. All ages, levels of experience and newcomers are welcome! Weymouth Woods-Sandhills Nature Preserve, 1024 Ft. Bragg Rd., Southern Pines. 910.692.2167

SUNDAY Second Sunday in Downtown Sanford, 12-4 p.m. Join us for an afternoon of music, vendors and fun! Browse along the streets of downtown Sanford, where you will find some of our local businesses open and some of your favorite vendors present. While shopping, listen to some great music. For more info, check out www.sanford2ndsundaync. weebly.com or www.facebook.com/ pages/Sanford-2nd-Sunday.

SUNDAY Turpentine in the Pines, 3 p.m.

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In 1880, North Carolina was producing one-third of the world's supply of turpentine. Join us for a closer look at the history of this industry, the products produced from pine resin and the origin of our state's nickname, The Tarheel State. Weymouth Woods-Sandhills Nature Preserve, 1024 Ft. Bragg Rd., Southern Pines. 910.692.2167

THURSDAY Function at the Junction, 7–9 p.m. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and a picnic supper to Depot Park for another summer of free outdoor concerts provided by Downtown Sanford Inc. Depot Park, 106 Charlotte Ave, Sanford. 919.777.1400 or contact downtown@ sanfordnc.net.

FRIDAY 4th Friday, 6-10 p.m., Downtown Fayetteville. 4th Friday is a true celebration of the arts and downtown Fayetteville. www. theartscouncil.com/fourthmain.php 910.323.1776 Fayetteville After 5, 7.p.m. at Festival Park. Kick off those “work shoes” and kick up your heels! Come enjoy the Fayetteville After 5, now on Fourth Fridays! Entertainment will include On the Border (tribute to Eagles) & Brittany Marie (country and classic rock). July 2015

calendar of events • july Fayetteville After 5 is a summer concert series presented by the Fayetteville Dogwood Festival and Anheuser Busch. www.faydogwoodfestival.com 910.323.1934. Sensory Night Hike, 9 p.m. The world becomes a different place when the sun sets and the moon rises. Come and take a hike to the Overlook that gives a view over of the Cape Fear River and test your senses. Take note of how your eyes react to the dark and how much more keen your sense of hearing can be. Meet at the Picnic Shelter. Raven Rock State Park, 3009 Raven Rock Rd., Lillington. 910.893.4888.

SUNDAY Squirrels of the Sandhills, 3 p.m. Flying, fox and gray squirrels are all found in the Sandhills. However, they all have distinctly different lifestyles. This program will focus on the adaptations and life histories of these amazing rodents. Weymouth WoodsSandhills Nature Preserve, 1024 Ft. Bragg Rd., Southern Pines. 910.692.2167

THURSDAY 60th Annual Robbins Farmers Day, Downtown Robbins, 101 N. Middleton Street, Robbins. July 30 - Aug 1 - Wagon Train Festival, parade of 600+ horses, crafts, entertainment and much more.Thursday night offers a 5K Run/Walk and Gospel music on the Railroad Stage. Friday evening events include street dances, a country music show, clogging, square dancing and a carnival-type atmosphere where 10,000 plus enjoy all the activities. Entertainment, special demonstrations, arts/crafts and parade on Sat. at 11 a.m. • ONGOING EVENTS & EXHIBITS • Cape Fear River Trail Golf Cart Tours. For seniors and persons with permanent limited physical abilities, interpretive golf

July 2015

cart tours along the Cape Fear River Trail are available for individuals or groups of up to five people. Riders must be able to grasp and hold safety handles. Reservations are required. For more information, call 910.433.1547. Clark Park & Nature Center, 631 Sherman Dr., Fayetteville. Rockefeller House Tours: Call for dates and times of Tours of the Rockefeller House. Staff will be leading a free historical tour through Mr. Rockefeller’s winter get-away. The park staff will be leading 10 people through at a time. You must sign up in advance for the tours. If you need a ride to the Rockefeller House, you must attend the Tuesday tour. Carvers Creek State Park, 2505 Long Valley Rd., Spring Lake. 910.436.4681 Every Wednesday night, Kirtan Night at Breathing Space, 1404 Raeford Rd., Fayetteville. 910.977.4476, 7:30-9 p.m. It's free, and it's fun. Every Wednesday night, Wisdom Wednesday Services, 6:30-8 p.m., Center for Spiritual Living, Cliffdale Library, Fayetteville. 910.644.6608. Every Thursday, 9 a.m. Hike for Your Health at Raven Rock State Park. Must be able to hike 2 to 5 miles on trails that can be flat, hilly and include steps. Ages 12 and up. Please call 910.893.4888 to register. Second Thursday of each month. Naturalist Thursdays. Curious about nature? Kids 12 and under who attend 4 or more different naturalist programs at any park will receive a “Junior Naturalist” award. Call to register. All ages; 3:304:30 p.m.; Free. J. Bayard Clark Park & Nature Center, 631 Sherman Dr, Fayetteville. 910.433.1579 Every 4th Friday,  6-10 p.m., Downtown Fayetteville. 4th Friday is a true

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celebration of the arts and downtown Fayetteville. www.theartscouncil.com/ fourthmain.php 910.323.1776 Every Saturday, Noon-4 p.m. Free Wine Tasting, Elliotts Provision Company, 905 Linden Rd., Pinehurst. 910.255.0665. Every Sunday at 1 p.m., Free Piedmont Biofuels Tours, Lorax Lane, Pittsboro. Tours are of the biodiesel plant and begin promptly. Rain or shine. • FARMERS MARKETS • Fayetteville City Market, Wednesdays 2-6 p.m.; Saturdays 8 a.m.-1 p.m.; Fourth Friday 6-10 p.m. Fayetteville Transportation & Local History Museum Grounds, Fayetteville. www.facebook. com/CityMarketAtTheMuseum  910.433.1457 Murchison Road Community Farmers Market, Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., parking lot at Bronco Square (across from Fayetteville State University), Fayetteville. Sanford Farmer's Market, Every Saturday, 9 a.m.-Noon, Depot Park, Sanford. Tuesdays, 10 a.m.-Noon at the Enrichment Center on 3rd St. All products locally grown or hand crafted! 919.343.8440 Moore County Farmers Market, Thursdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., year round at The Armory Sports Complex, 604 W. Morganton Rd., Southern Pines; Mondays, 2-5:30 p.m. at First Health in Pinehurst; Saturdays, 8 a.m.-Noon, Downtown Park in Southern Pines. Sandhills Farmers Market, Saturdays 10 a.m.-1 p..m., Wednesdays, 3-6 p.m., at the Village of Pinehurst parking lot. Items are accepted for the calendar on a space-available basis. Please send the information on your free event to joy@ sandhillsnaturally.com for consideration.

Don’t Miss the PopUp Dinner of the Year! The Fresh Chef Challenge is a showcase of local chefs designing unique recipes with locally sourced ingredients!

Saturday, August 8, 2015 Location To Be Announced Tickets range from $25-125 per person. Pay what you can to support environmental education in the Sandhills. All event proceeds go to supporting our mission to save the planet and preserve the environment of the Sandhills through education, demonstration and collaboration.

Tickets can be purchased at www.sustainablesandhills.org or for more information, call 910-484-9098.

unplug your kids. Today’s kids spend an average of 6 hours a day planted in front of an electronic screen—spending about half as much time outdoors as you did when you were a kid. No making mud pies. No catching fireflies. No swinging in trees. No wading in streams. No daydreaming while watching the clouds roll by... Unplugged isn’t just about going outside for baseball or soccer practice or recess at school. Unplugged is about giving your child a every day, unstructured time in green spaces to explore, imagine, and discover. It’s healthy and it’s FUN.

Find and share unplugged ideas for kids at greenhour.org

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July 2015