Inspired Living December 2015

DECEMBER 2015

LIVING INSPIREDNWI.COM

CHRISTMAS MOVIE NIGHT HOLIDAY BAR CART ESSENTIALS

THE GAMBA SISTERS GO

Glitz&Glam FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Breast Care Excellence

The Women’s Diagnostic Centers of Community Healthcare

System: Community Hospital, St. Catherine Hospital and St. Mary Medical Center, offer the highest quality, most advanced screening and diagnostic services to help detect breast cancer at its earliest stages.

Our total care package combines specialized technology including 3-D mammography and PEM, with the services of a high-risk breast clinic, genetic counseling, and cancer research and support centers.

At each of our locations, you’ll find a highly personalized approach with the support of breast navigators who help women connect with the resources they need to explore all their options and make the best decisions regarding care.

www.comhs.org 10020 Donald S. Powers Dr. 300 W. 61st Ave. Munster, IN Hobart, IN 219-934-8869 219-947-6436 4321 Fir St. East Chicago, IN 219-392-7321

3800 St. Mary Dr. Valparaiso, IN 219-947-6436

711 Main St. • Schererville, IN • 219-322-2700 Southlake Mall • Merrillville, IN • 219-769-1976 www.AlbertsJewelers.com

DECEMBER 2015

60

Christmas Movie Night Host your own yuletide film fest.

66

Cheers to the New Year

Celebrate New Year’s Eve in chic, glamorous attire.

56

The Advocate Why Karen Maravilla goes all out to promote the Region.

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| December 2015

ON THE COVER MODELS Michaelle Gamba, Krystle Gamba, Angela Hanks PHOTOGRAPHER Michelle Hamstra LOCATION Gamba Ristorante CLOTHING Le Salon HAIR Aubree Thorsen MAKEUP Krissy VanderWoude

KAREN MARAVILLA PHOTO BY ESTHER GALLARDAY, CHRISTMAS MOVIE NIGHT PHOTO BY PENNY FRAZIER, NEW YEAR PHOTO BY MICHELLE HAMSTRA

FEATURES

DECEMBER 2015

14

48

34 DEPARTMENTS IN STYLE

INDULGE

IN HOME

INVIGORATE

IN EVERY ISSUE

13

33

42

77

06 Editor’s Letter

14

34

Go Herbal: Give the gift of handmade bath and beauty products.

78

19 In Scene

What We Love This Month: Hand-painted clothing for the art lover.

Cool Confidence: Jennifer Vinovich’s classic style with an edge.

16

Scarlet Fever: Red clothing and accessories for the holiday season.

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| December 2015

A Cup of Comfort: Make your own hot chocolate.

Good Spirits: How to dress your holiday bar cart.

38

Sweet and Simple: Quick and easy recipes for Christmas treats.

Holiday Hammond Home: Thirteen Christmas trees fill this cozy mansion.

48

Outside the Box: Simple ideas for amping up your holiday décor.

50

Family Tree: Eight ways to personalize your Christmas tree.

Healthy Holidays: How to make your health a priority in this busy season.

08 Contributors 10 Let’s Get Social 28 Calendar 80 In Closing

JENNIFER VINOVICH PHOTO BY PENNY FRAZIER, FIREPLACE PHOTO COURTESY OF DECORATING DEN INTERIORS, MACHELLE WAGNER PHOTO BY DONNA LIND, BAR CART PHOTO BY BETH FLETCHER PHOTOGRAPHY

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LIVING VOLUME 1 // ISSUE 7

PUBLISHER

Christopher T. White PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Lisa Tavoletti EDITOR

Julia Perla Huisman DESIGNER

Editor’s

LETTER t’s our first holiday issue of Inspired Living, and we had a blast putting it together! I’ve been looking forward to this issue for months now. I remember back in April, before the magazine even launched, when we met with our advisory board for the first time. After casting our vision and beginning some brainstorming, board member Susan Brychell said, “The Christmas issue could be really pretty.” Her words have stuck with me ever since, and I didn’t want to let her—or anyone with the same expectation—down.

Thankfully, I have a team who delivers. We worked with three event planning companies to style many of the gorgeous photos you’ll see in the coming pages. They and our photographers worked hard to capture the beauty I envisioned for this issue.

See Michelle Samardzija’s ideas for how to dress a holiday bar cart on page 34. Michelle Nikitaras of Unveiled Weddings and Events styled the fun and fabulous New Year’s fashion shoot with the Gamba sisters on page 66. And our friends at Happy Day Shirt and Event Company provided the goods for not one, not two, but three stories, on pages 33, 50 and 60.

Speaking of Happy Day, I have some sad news to share. Just two days after our photo shoot for the above stories, their warehouse in Cedar Lake—where they housed all of their props and their T-shirt printing press—burned to the ground. This is especially sad because the majority of their props were antiques and found items from special places around the region and therefore irreplaceable. Our hearts go out to Happy Day; please consider visiting their showroom in Schererville to lend your support to this innovative and creative company.

In fact, during this Christmas shopping season, I encourage you to support as many locally owned businesses as you can. Visit the small businesses displayed here in our ads and stories, browse the shops in your downtown, go to Hunt & Gather (December 4-5) ... you’ll find unique, high-quality, affordable gifts for your loved ones while also supporting a business owner and thus your local community. It’s a win-win!

I wish you and your family a happy, healthy, and inspired holiday season.

April Burford CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Eve Adams Ashley Boyer Christine Bryant Eric Carter Rob Earnshaw Julie Dean Kessler Mark Loehrke Damian Rico Eloise Marie Valadez CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Eve Adams Jessica deKock Beth Fletcher Penny Frazier Michelle Hamstra Richard Hellyer Brandi Lee Donna Lind Tony V. Martin Damian Rico Gregg Rizzo Monica Zibutis PROOFREADER

Kathryn MacNeil ADVISORY BOARD

Susan Brychell Lynn Hoeksema Theresa Mudd Hilary Powell Jennifer Vinovich PUBLISHED BY

Lee Enterprises The Times Media Company Niche Division 601 W 45th St Munster, Indiana 46321 219.853.2550 REPRINTS AND PERMISSIONS

EDITOR

You must have permission before reproducing material from Inspired Living magazine.

Inspired Living magazine invites readers and writers to submit ideas, comments and feedback through email at inspiredliving@nwi.com or by mail to Inspired Living Magazine, 601 W 45th St, Munster, IN 46321.

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| December 2015

Contributors CATHI LLOYD of Decorating Den Interiors is an awardwinning interior designer whose business has been based in Northwest Indiana for more than 25 years. Cathi’s work has been published in numerous national magazines and five hard-cover books. When she’s not busy helping clients achieve the home of their dreams, Cathi wholeheartedly believes in giving back to the community, serving with many local organizations.

Read Cathi’s tips and tricks for holiday decorating on page 48.

As the founder of Mad Momma Events, MICHELLE SAMARDZIJA acts as the visionary and creative director for all events and projects. She coordinates her clients with experienced local vendors to create customized events. Mad Momma Events coordinates and styles weddings, children’s parties, inspiration shoots, and more. Mad Momma Events has been honored with full features on both Hostess with the Mostess and Style Me Pretty. Michelle wrote and styled the “Good Spirits” story, about how to dress a holiday bar cart, on page 34.

TONY V. MARTIN has been a photographer/videographer/ artist for more than 25 years.

He has published work in the U.S. and abroad including magazines Sports Illustrated, American Theatre, Chicago, Shore, BusINess, Get Healthy and now Inspired Living. As a theater artist he has designed and created sets, installation art and projections for The Goodman Studio Theater (with Regina Taylor), Lookingglass Theater and Chicago Actors Ensemble and others. He has written and directed one independent film, Mysterium Elusia. See Tony’s photos on pages 13, 16-17, and 42-47.

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| December 2015

Cathi Lloyd

Michelle Samardzija

Tony V. Martin

INTRODUCING BLACK CAVIAR

M Y L A G O S M Y W AY

650 W. MORTHLAND DRIVE ON US 30 | VALPARAISO, INDIANA | 219.462.5931

’r You

e Invited

Let’s Get

SOCIAL

Hartsfield Village’s

Holiday Open House

YOU SAID… We asked local women in our November issue and now we’re asking you...

What are you thankful for this year?

My amazing husband (married this year!).

He’s an adjunct instructor at PNC and PUC and works so hard for his students. He inspires me every day, and he doesn’t even know it.

-@M1CHELLERUFF (TWITTER)

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2015 11:00AM - 3:00PM Hartsfield Village 10000 Columbia Avenue Munster, IN

I’m thankful for a husband who is supportive and lets me live my dream!

-JAMIE B. (FB)

I am thankful for every day I have on this earth.

It’s not always easy, but good or bad, happy or sad, it really is the little things that make up your life.

-SUSAN C. (FB)

I am thankful for supportive parents, husband, family, and friends who push me into the right places.

Music, Refreshments, Door Prizes and Tours of Independent and Assisted Living apartments.

-KRISTEN L. (FB)

I’m so thankful for the ketogenic diet and the doctors and nurses at Lurie Children’s Hospital.

My two-year-old daughter is seizure-free (eight months now) because of it!

-MICHELLE N. (FB)

Please RSVP to 219-934-0750.

TECH TIP

The Best in Retirement Living for 8 years in a row!

Thanks for making us your #1 choice!

Want to stay on top of your Christmas budget this year? There’s an app for that. There are several, actually, but we recommend Santa’s Bag—Christmas Gift List. You can set a budget, import recipients, create wish lists and shopping lists, and track your progress. The best part of the app is its sharing feature. Share your wish list with family and your budget with your spouse.

Delicious Flickr Follow Inspired Living on social media!

Search @inspirednwi at:

www.hartsfieldvillage.com 10

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STYLE MS. ELLE’S ESPECIALLY FOR YOU 2235 45th St, Highland 219.924.4204

love what we

Jacket, Barrow: $175 Bustier, Barrow: $49

THIS MONTH

This striking ensemble, perfect for an art exhibit opening or holiday party, features hand-painted items by local artist Teresa FeFe Barrow.

Earrings, Debra Banks: $35

Gloves, Barrow: $49

Necklace, Debra Banks: $40

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TONY V. MARTIN

Pumps, Barrow: $89

Pants, Lorna Colette: $79

Evening bag: $59

December 2015 |

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| December 2015

Cool Confidence

PHOTOGRAPHY BY PENNY FRAZIER

J

ennifer Vinovich describes her sense of style as “classic, but with a little bit of an edge,” and that seems just about right for someone who has spent her life nursing a competitive streak.

From her days as a collegiate golfer at Purdue to a successful career in the corporate world to her many stints as “team mom” in a variety of sports for daughter Allison (now 21) and son Jack (now 19, and like his sister a student at Purdue), the Merrillville native and current Crown Point resident has always maintained a go-for-it edge. But it’s not necessarily the thrill of competition or a desire to get ahead that’s driving Vinovich’s latest life endeavor—running her own business offering golf lessons and camps for more than 70 middle school students in and around the Crown Point area.

“My greatest strengths are probably my patience and my love of being around other people, and both of those qualities really come into play with this program,” she says. “I started off with the high-powered corporate jobs and then spent some time raising my kids, and since then I was kind of waiting for the next thing to come along, and I think golf instruction is going to be the thing. I’ve had a passion for the game my entire life, so it’s nice to be out there doing something that I love.”

Vinovich likewise employs her love of people in pursuit of her other lifelong passion—giving back as an active volunteer for organizations ranging from Tri Kappa and the Legacy Foundation to AAU basketball and Crown Point United Methodist Church. It’s a calling that’s very close to her heart.

“I think it’s very important to give back your time and talents,” Vinovich says. “We’ve been blessed, and I just feel that it’s so important to show my gratitude by helping others.”

A similar simple-but-powerful approach guides Vinovich’s personal sense of style, which is more about wearing whatever outfit she’s chosen with confidence than trying to make some grand fashion statement.

Often, a quick consultation with her daughter helps to provide the guiding light.

“My daughter has always been involved in the fashion world [she is a fashion merchandising major], so I see her as my style inspiration,” Vinovich says. “I credit her with urging me to take a few risks here and there, to try something new and to follow the trends but not to get too crazy. She’s quick to reel me in.”

On most days, Vinovich doesn’t require any reeling in. Her simple, straightforward and comfortable style translates into a typical go-to outfit of boyfriend jeans, a turtleneck and an interesting pair of boots (the “edge”). And cashmere . . . always a touch of cashmere.

“I’m obsessed with cashmere,” she says. “I probably wear it ten months out of the year. I typically run cold, so the cashmere comes out early in the season and stays late.”

Especially on Sundays during the fall and winter, when Vinovich can usually be found tending to one of her more recent obsessions—and again indulging her taste for competition. When asked what she’s most looking forward to, she doesn’t hesitate and doesn’t look very far out.

“I’m a bit of a fantasy football fanatic, so I’m actually looking forward to a win this Sunday. I used to watch golf on Sundays, but now it’s all about football.”

■ MARK LOEHRKE

“WE’VE BEEN BLESSED, AND I JUST FEEL THAT IT’S SO IMPORTANT TO SHOW MY GRATITUDE BY HELPING OTHERS.” December 2015 |

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Scarlet Fever Come December, the fashion world rolls out the red carpet for crimson-colored clothing and accessories. Here are some of our favorite red items from local boutiques. Be sure to pair with a red lip and polish for added drama.

SWEATER WEATHER

Stay warm while out and about.

BB Dakota cardigan: $118; Look Collection scarf: $58. Both items are from Beyond Pink.

ACCESSORIZE IT

Add sophistication to your look with these ruby varieties.

Bracelet, Whittaker House: $48; Jewel necklace/earrings set, Ambiance Your Home Your Story: $49; Ball necklace/ earrings set, Ambiance Your Home Your Story: $49.

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| December 2015

THERMAL FLAIR

Whether caroling, skating or sledding, scarves and boot cuffs are a must.

Clockwise from left: New Prospects cowl scarf, Beyond Pink: $38.

Long scarf, Ambiance Your Home Your Story: $22; Funky Junque boot cuffs, Beyond Pink: $24.

THE PERFECT PAIR Red and black go together like wrapping paper and tape.

Michael Stars hat: $68; Frank Lyman dress: $218; Bracelet: $298; Inzi purse: $105. All items are from Whittaker House.

FEMME FATALE

Dance the night away at the holiday party with a pretty lace top.

AnM shirt, Beyond Pink: $78; Painting, Ambiance Your Home Your Story: $80.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TONY V. MARTIN

THE BOUTIQUES Ambiance Your Home Your Story 9490 Wicker Ave, St. John 219.558.0748 ambiancehomestory.com Beyond Pink 3907 Calumet Ave, Valparaiso 219.531.7465 shopbeyondpink.com Whittaker House 26 N Whittaker St, New Buffalo 269.469.0220 whittakerhouse.com

December 2015 |

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Auto

Directory Locate Auto Dealers with Ease, in NW Indiana & Chicagoland ACURA MULLER ACURA OF MERRILLVILLE 3301 W. Lincoln Hwy, Merrillville, IN 219-472-7000 mulleracuraofmerrillville.com JOE RIzzA ACURA 8150 W. 159th St. Orland Park, IL 708-403-7770 www.rizzacars.com

BUICK CIRCLE bUICk 2440 45th Street, Highland, IN IN. 219-865-4400 • IL. 773-221-8124 www.circleautomotive.com

CHEVROLET ARNELL ChEVROLET U.S 20 & I-94, Burns Harbor, IN 866-593-0997 www.arnellmotors.com

SMITh ChEVROLET - LOwELL 700 W. Commerical, Lowell, IN 219-696-8931 www.smithautogroupusa.com TEAM ChEVROLET 1856 W. U.S. 30, Valparaiso, IN 219-462-1175 www.teamchevyinc.com

CHRYSLER gRIEgERS ChRySLER 1756 U.S. 30 West, Valparaiso, IN 219-462-4117 www.griegersmotors.com

DODGE gRIEgERS dOdgE 1756 U.S. 30 West, Valparaiso, IN 219-462-4117 www.griegersmotors.com

FORD LAkEShORE FORd 244 Melton Rd. (US 20@I94, Exit 22A) Burns Harbor, IN 219-787-8600 www.lakeshoreford.com

ChRISTENSON ChEVROLET 9700 Indianapolis Blvd., Highland, IN 888-999-9141 www.christensonchevy.com SMITh ChEVROLET - hAMMONd

SMITh FORd 1777 E. Commercial, Lowell, IN 219-769-1090 www.smithautogroupusa.com

219-845-4000

wEbb FORd 9809 Indianapolis Blvd., Highland, IN 800-533-1279

www.smithautogroupusa.com

www.webbford.com

6405 Indianapolis Blvd., Hammond, IN

GMC

MITSUBISHI

CIRCLE gMC 2440 45th Street, Highland, IN IN 219-865-4400 • IL 773-221-8124 www.circleautomotive.com

NIELSEN MITSUbIShI 5020 U.S. Highway 6, Portage, IN 888-503-4110 www.nielsenmitsubishi.com

HONDA

NISSAN

TEAM hONdA 4613 East Rt. 30 Merrillville, IN 219-947-3900 www.teamhondaon30.com

SOUThLAkE NISSAN Rt. 30, 1 Mile E. of I-65, Merrillville, IN 888-471-1241 www.southlakeautomall.com

HYUNDAI

RAM

wEbb hyUNdAI 9236 Indianapolis Blvd., Highland, IN 219-923-2277 www.webbhyundai.com

gRIEgERS RAM 1756 U.S. 30 West Valparaiso, IN 219-462-4117 www.griegersmotors.com

JEEP gRIEgERS JEEP 1756 U.S. 30 West, Valparaiso, IN 219-462-4117 www.griegersmotors.com

KIA ARNELL kIA I-94 AutoMall, Hwy. 20 & I-94 Burns Harbor, IN 219-787-9200 www.arnellmotors.com SOUThLAkE kIA Rt. 30, 1 mi. East of I-65 Merrillville, IN 888-478-7178 www.southlakeautomall.com

SUBARU NIELSEN SUbARU 5020 U.S. Highway 6, Portage, IN 888-503-4110 www.nielsen.subaru.com

TOYOTA LAkEShORE TOyOTA 244 Melton Rd. (US 20@I94, Exit 22A) Burns Harbor, IN 219-787-8600 www.lakeshoretoyota.com TOyOTA ON 30 4450 E. RT 30, Merrillville, IN 219-947-3325 www.toyotaon30.com

ContaCt your times’ media Consultant to feature your business in the times auto direCtory

MUNSTER • (219) 852-4338 | VALPARAISO • (219) 462-5151

SCENE Northwest Indiana Symphony Gala

T

Merrillville

he Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra celebrated the start of its 74th season with an Opening Concert and Gala, “Hooray for Hollywood.” After dinner at the Radisson Hotel, the 300 guests walked to the Star Plaza Theatre and were treated to music from their favorite movies. The gala benefits the symphony’s education programs.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DONNA LIND

Derek, Susan and Alec Thompson

Joan Kisic and Jamie Norgaard

Tricia Hernandez with Ashley and Josh Halpern

Speros Batistatos and Amee Beauchamp

Mary Anne and Elden Lattayne with Cindy Hall and Mike Moskalick

Dave and Mary Ryan

December 2015 |

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Hospice Center Benefit

A

Berrien Springs

culinary cook-off was the highlight of a benefit for the Merlin and Carolyn Hanson Hospice Center at Lemon Creek Winery. Local celebrities and chefs battled in a friendly cooking competition, while guests enjoyed the food and voted for their favorites.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GREGG RIZZO

Kim and Paul Landeck

Charley and Trisha Racine

20

Eric and Gloria Ender

Stephanie and Bob Burch

Carol Fasbender and Bryan Joseph

Greg and Sue Kellogg

Carolyn and Merlin Hanson

Christine Borah and Tom Starks

| December 2015

Pink Ribbon Society Tea

T

Hobart

he Pink Ribbon Society hosted its 15th Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Tea, which honors breast cancer survivors as well as those recently diagnosed and currently in treatment for breast cancer.

The event at Avalon Manor drew 800 people, the largest attendance in the event’s history.

Mina Clark and Cristal Rayda

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TONY V. MARTIN

R.W. and Jeanie McCarthy

Kristen and Rich Maurer

Jennifer, Bob, and Kelly McCarthy

live mannequins!

friday dec.4 7-8:30 pm

e-newsletter

Keep up with the latest stories and trends with the Inspired Living e-newsletter delivered to your desktop and mobile device.

reindog holiday parade & santa arrives! saturday dec. 5 at 4 pm

sign up today at inspirednwi.com

StJoetoday.com December 2015 |

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Brigata Hills Chamber Event

M

Valparaiso

embers of the Valparaiso Chamber visited the new Brigata Hills development for a Business After Hours event. These monthly social mixers are hosted by chamber members at their business to showcase the products and services they have available.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TONY V. MARTIN

Dawn Collins and Donna Phelps

Colleen Letnich, Nicki Husiar and Lisa Mathis

Honna Kozik and Kris Thomlinson

Cindy Oakley with Alan and Sue Sommers

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| December 2015

Don and Karin Abrell

Judy and Ron Gross

Tammy Riffle-Pack, Beckie Guffin and Christy Adney

Mum’s the Word Luncheon

H

Hobart

ospice of the Calumet Area and the Friends of Hospice Fundraising Auxiliary hosted their annual Mum’s the Word luncheon at the Avalon Manor. The event recognized the many accomplishments of volunteers Vicki Halkias and Pat McKinlay.

Donna Storbeck and Nancy Harrington

Kim Modigell and Wendy Mis

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAMIAN RICO

Vicky Halkias

Pat McKinlay

Megan McDonald, Sharron Simmons, Cheryl McCarthy, Ro Loughmiller, Laura Carpenter, Brenda Obinger and Leslie Darrow

Happy Holidays Ristorante • Pizzeria • Winebar Banquets • Caterings

We do Holiday Caterings and Banquets!

Modern Dining • Weddings • Bridal Showers Rehearsal Dinners • Corporate Events • Catering

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December 2015 |

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St. Agnes Center Gala

A

Valparaiso

gala for the St. Agnes Adult Day Service Center was held to raise funds for the center’s scholarship program, which allows low-income clients to attend the daycare program. The gala was held at the Valparaiso Country Club and featured a meal and silent auction.

Carol and George Sperry

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TONY V. MARTIN

Len and Filomae Schmidt with Barbara and Dick Sierra

Tom and Diane Kalmbach

Alice and Doon Giedeman

a Diamond in a College Town

If you are looking for;

❧ Elegance in a casual setting ❧ Succulent Cuisine prepared by b one of Chicagoland’s most gifted talents. ❧ An exquisite menu blending American and Continental European with a French twist. ❧ Where service is Top-Notch.

Gift Certificates Available.

Keith Gurley - Owner and Operator

We Welcome You to Bon Femme.

219.531.0612

66 W. Lincolnway Historic Valparaiso www.bonfemme.com

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| December 2015

Get your daily fix of Inspired Living magazine at inspirednwi.com!

Discover the latest ideas on food, fashion, home, entertaining, and health/beauty.

Browse and share our digital issue.

Sign up for Inspired Living’s email newsletter.

Check out our events calendar, social media, subscription info, and more!

Harvest & Wine Festival

S

New Buffalo

outhwest Michigan celebrated its harvest with a festival at Lions Beachfront Park, where guests enjoyed tasting wines from local vineyards along with craft beers and hard ciders. The event also included kids activities, food and vendor booths, hay rides, and music from local bands.

Mark and Theresa Dalton

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GREGG RIZZO

Jennifer Livesay and Jacque Lambert

Jill Hawley and Michelle Griffin

Jamie Placek, Tracy Knowles and Kendra Reszel

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December 2015 |

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Nazareth Home Gala

M

Merrillville

ore than 250 community leaders gathered at the Radisson at Star Plaza to celebrate foster children who overcame medical challenges through the care of Nazareth Home. The Most Reverend Bishop Donald J. Hying served as emcee of the 13th annual gala.

Janice Evans and Robert McMahon

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF NAZARETH HOME

Bishop Hying and Tom McDermott, Sr., with Joyce and Kurt Koch

Emiliano Perez

Sylvia and Tom Collins

When you have hip or knee pain, you also have the pain of giving up the things you love to do. Our Joint Care Program has reinvented joint replacement surgery into 3 easy steps to bring you the kind of relief that’ll get you active again. For more information, visit PorterJOINTCARE.com or call 219-210-4845.

3 SIMPLE STEPS

SO YOU CAN START LIVING AGAIN.

1 2 3

You’ll attend a pre-surgery class where you can ask questions and learn how to choose a coach who’ll who help you after surgery.

The day da of surgery, our Joint Care staff will guide you through the entire process.

You’ll begin recovery with a physical therapist and attend group classes as you prepare to gr go home with your coach.

Take your first step toward relieving joint pain and attend a free seminar. To register, visit PorterJOINTCARE.com or call 219-210-4845.

Porter Regional Hospital is directly or indirectly owned by a partnership that proudly includes physician owners, including certain members of the hospital’s medical staff.

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| December 2015

F a T s S h O i o n M a s ’ b a l n e a New Add i d n I t s e w ress North

• Luxury Custom Homes • Low Property Taxes • Minutes to the Dunes • 4-Star Schools

A Fashionable New Address On 500 N, 1 mile East of 149

VALPARAISO

Model Homes open weekends or by appointment.

DAWN COLLINS • (219) 531-2288 DawnCollins@Century21.com • BrigataHills.com

DECEMBER 2015 SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

06

08

10

Holiday Pops, 7:30pm, Star Plaza Theatre, 8001 Delaware Pl, Merrillville.

219.836.0525. nisorchestra. org. The Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra performs sing-along holiday music with Plum Grove Music violin students and the Munster High School Chorale.

DEC 4-6 Blue Moon Vintage Market, noon-8pm Fri, 10am-6pm Sat, 10am-3pm Sun, 16860 Three Oaks Rd, Three Oaks, Mich. 219.851.0900. 6000+ sq ft of vintage, home décor, a large salvage area, food and gift items.

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DEC 4-6, 11-13 A Christmas Carol—The Musical, Memorial Opera House, 104 Indiana Ave, Valparaiso. 219.548.9137. memorialoperahouse.com.

The story of Ebenezer Scrooge and his ghostly encounters comes to life in this lavish and thrilling musical.

20

22

The Oak Ridge Boys Christmas Night Out, 4pm, Star Plaza Theatre, 8001 Delaware Pl, Merrillville. 800.745.3000. starplazatheatre.com. The award-winning musicians perform their classics.

DEC 4-27 Gift of Art, Southern Shore Art Association Gallery, 724 Franklin St, Michigan City. 219.879.4980. southernshoreartassociation. com. A display of original artworks and crafts, all priced under $200.

28 THROUGH JAN 24 Classic Images— Photography by Ansel Adams, Center for Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Rd, Munster. 219.836.1839. southshoreartsonline.org. The famous photographer and environmentalist’s works are on display.

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| December 2015

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Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis, 7:30pm, The Mendel Center at Lake Michigan College, 2755 E Napier Ave, Benton Harbor, Mich. 269.927.1221. themendelcenter.com.

Grammy Award winner Chip Davis’ show with Christmas music and multimedia effects in an intimate setting.

31 New Year’s Eve Ball, 8pm-1am, LaPorte Civic Auditorium, 1001 Ridge St, LaPorte. 219.362.3178. lpchamber.com. Ring in the New Year with the Greater LaPorte Chamber of Commerce. Black tie optional.

CLASSIC IMAGES PHOTO BY ANSEL ADAMS, MOON AND HALF DOME, YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK, CALIFORNIA, 1960, PHOTOGRAPH BY ANSEL ADAMS, COLLECTION CENTER FOR CREATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY, UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA © 2014 THE ANSEL ADAMS PUBLISHING RIGHTS TRUST

01

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

04

05

DEC 4-5 VU Christmas Concert, 7:30pm Fri, 5pm Sat, Chapel of the Resurrection, Valparaiso University, 1600 Chapel Dr, Valparaiso.

219.464.5000. valpo.edu.

Valparaiso University Chorale, Men’s Choir, Women’s Choir, Chamber Concert Band and Symphony Orchestra perform.

Mistletoe Market, 9am-3pm, Westchester Intermediate School, 1050 S 5th St, Chesterton.

219.926.5513. chestertonseuropeanmarket. com. Chesterton’s European Market dresses up for the holidays with merchants, artists, chefs, and more.

11

1 2 3 4

GIVE BACK

THROUGH JAN 2 Holiday Artisan Market, Lubeznik Center for the Arts, 101 W 2nd St, Ste 100, Michigan City. 219.874.4900. lubeznikcenter.org. This gift boutique features an array of quality handcrafted merchandise from some of the Midwest’s finest craftspeople. All proceeds benefit Lubeznik Center for the Arts programs and activities.

12 Lisa Lampanelli, 8pm, Horseshoe Casino Hammond, 777 Casino Center Dr, Hammond.

866.711.7463. caesars.com/ horseshoe-hammond. The stand-up comedian performs.

19

Santa Walk and Run, 9am, St. Mary’s Catholic Community School, 405 E Joliet St, Crown Point. yourhometownevents.com.

Athletes and non-athletes are encouraged to wear full Santa outfits, a Santa hat or other festive gear at this non-timed 5K run, one-mile walk and team sleigh race.

25

5

WAYS TO

26 THROUGH DEC 27 A Christmas Story, Theatre at the Center, 1040 Ridge Rd, Munster. 219.836.3255. theatreatthecenter.com. All the classic scenes from the holiday favorite come to life on stage.

BY ASHLEY BOYER

DEC 2-3 The Nutcracker, 10:30am, 7pm Wed, 10am, 7pm Thu, Star Plaza Theatre, 8001 Delaware Pl, Merrillville.

219.755.4444. ibtnw.org. The Indiana Ballet Theatre brings this cherished holiday tale to life with music, dance and spectacular costumes.

DEC 5 5K Arctic Dash and Little Igloo Youth Dash, The Boys & Girls Club, 5895 Evergreen Ave, Portage. runsignup.com. Boys & Girls Clubs of Porter County host this 5K run and one-mile family fun run to benefit the organization’s program. Free childcare is offered during the race.

DEC 5 Sippin’ with Santa, 1-4pm, Round Barn Winery, 10983 Hill Road, Baroda. 800.716.9463. roundbarnwinery.com. Meet and greet the Man in Red at this annual Toys for Tots holiday party.

Donate a new, unwrapped toy to score time with good ol’ Santa. Bonus kid activities include making ornaments and cookie decorating.

5

DEC 19 Santa Walk and Run, 9am, St. Mary’s Catholic Community School, 405 E Joliet St, Crown Point. yourhometownevents.com.

Athletes and non-athletes are encouraged to wear full Santa outfits, a Santa hat or other festive gear at this nontimed 5K run, one-mile walk and team sleigh race. Participants can collect sponsor pledges and raise money for the charity of their choice.

Refreshments, live entertainment, a costume contest and visits with Santa follow the run.

December 2015 |

29

DEC 4

THROUGH DEC 20

Christmas in the Park & Festival of Lights, 4-7pm, Prairie West Park, 9359 W Oakridge Dr, St. John.

219.365.6236. Stroll along the paths viewing the beautifully decorated trees sponsored by local merchants, clubs, churches and neighbors.

THROUGH DEC 27

A Christmas Story, Theatre at the Center, 1040 Ridge Rd, Munster. 219.836.3255. theatreatthecenter.com. All the classic scenes from the holiday favorite come to life on stage.

THROUGH JAN 9

Chris Silva—Human Mess, Lubeznik Center for the Arts, 101 W 2nd St, Michigan City.

219.874.4900. lubeznikcenter. org. An array of mixedmedia work with interesting juxtapositions of color, texture, lighting and sound.

THROUGH JAN 10

Dorothea Lange’s America, Krasl Art Center, 707 Lake Blvd, St. Joseph, Mich.

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| December 2015

269.983.0271. krasl.org. A collection of photography by socially conscious photographers of the Great Depression.

THROUGH JAN 24

of participating downtown businesses come alive as volunteers pose perfectly still, like mannequins.

DEC 4-5

Classic Images— Photography by Ansel Adams, Center for Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Rd, Munster. 219.836.1839. southshoreartsonline.org. The famous photographer and environmentalist’s works are on display.

VU Christmas Concert, 7:30pm Fri, 5pm Sat, Chapel of the Resurrection, Valparaiso University, 1600 Chapel Dr, Valparaiso.

219.464.5000. valpo.edu.

Valparaiso University Chorale, Men’s Choir, Women’s Choir, Chamber Concert Band and Symphony Orchestra perform.

DEC 4

DEC 4-6

Holly Days, 5-7pm, Central Park Plaza, downtown Valparaiso. 219.464.8332. valparaisoevents.com.

Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with holiday music, ice carvings, a holiday village market and a live nativity.

DEC 4

Live Mannequins! 7-8:30pm, downtown St. Joseph, Mich.

616.510.3599. stjoetoday. com. Storefronts and windows

Auditorium, 276 E 68th Pl, Merrillville. 219.947.4922. m-mproductions.com. The musical version of Charles Dickens’ classic A Christmas Carol.

DEC 4-6, 11-13

A Christmas Carol—The Musical, Memorial Opera House, 104 Indiana Ave, Valparaiso. 219.548.9137. memorialoperahouse.com. The story of Ebenezer Scrooge and his ghostly encounters comes to life in this lavish and thrilling musical.

Blue Moon Vintage Market, noon-8pm Fri, 10am-6pm Sat, 10am-3pm Sun, Blue Moon Vintage Market, 16860 Three Oaks Rd, Three Oaks, Mich.

219.851.0900. facebook. com/bluemoonvintagemarket.

6000+ square feet of vintage, primitives, architectural items, home décor, a large salvage area, food and gift items.

DEC 4-6, 10-13

DEC 4-6

DEC 4-27

Scrooge—The Musical, Merrillville High School Reinhart

Dashing through the Snow, 7:30pm Thu-Sat, 2pm Sun, Footlight Theatre, 1705 Franklin St, Michigan City.

219.874.4035. footlightplayers. org. An impromptu Christmas Eve wedding brings together a parade of eccentric guests in the tiny town of Tinsel, Texas, in this family-friendly comedy.

Gift of Art, Southern Shore Art Association Gallery,

HOLLY DAYS PHOTO BY JON L. HENDRICKS, REINDOG HOLIDAY PARADE PHOTO BY JOSHUA NOWICKI

Holly Days, 5-7pm, Central Park Plaza, downtown Valparaiso.

219.464.8332. valparaisoevents. com. Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with holiday music, ice carvings, a holiday village market and a live nativity.

Orchestra performs singalong contemporary and classic holiday music with Plum Grove Music violin students and the Munster High School Chorale.

DEC 11-13

Cirque Dreams Holidaze, 8pm Fri, 9pm Sat, 5pm Sun, Silver Creek Event Center, Four Winds Casino, 11111 Wilson Rd, New Buffalo, Mich. 800.745.3000. fourwindscasino.com/events.

A critically acclaimed holiday stage extravaganza—a cirque show, Broadway musical and family Christmas spectacular all in one.

DEC 11-13, 17-20

Watch the Reindog Holiday Parade on Dec. 5 in St. Joseph

724 Franklin St, Michigan City. 219.879.4980. southernshoreartassociation. com. A display of original artworks and crafts, all priced under $200.

Welcome Center, 301 State St, St. Joseph. stjoetoday. com. An annual event for pets and their owners in holiday garb to celebrate the season.

DEC 5

Mistletoe Market, 9am-3pm, Westchester Intermediate School, 1050 S 5th St, Chesterton. 219.926.5513. chestertonseuropeanmarket. com. Chesterton’s European Market dresses up for the holidays with merchants, artists, chefs, music, Santa and more.

A Fabulous 50’s Christmas, Towle Community Theater, 5205 Hohman Ave, Hammond. 219.937.8780. towletheater.org. Wholesome family entertainment that captures the spirit and joy of Christmas just as the Perry Como and Andy Williams TV Christmas specials did from years gone by.

DEC 5

DEC 6

Mix, Mingle & Jingle Party, 6:30-10:30pm, Blue Chip Casino, Hotel & Spa’s Stardust Event Center, 777 Blue Chip Dr, Michigan City.

888.879.7711. bluechipcasino. com. Networking night with dancing, music by SODA and festive food stations.

DEC 5

Reindog Holiday Parade, 4-5pm, St. Joseph Today

DEC 5-6, 11-13, 18-20

Heart, 8pm, Horseshoe Casino Hammond, 777 Casino Center Dr, Hammond.

866.711.7463. caesars.com/ horseshoe-hammond. The chart-topping sisters perform.

DEC 10

Holiday Pops, 7:30pm, Star Plaza Theatre, 8001 Delaware Pl, Merrillville. 219.836.0525. nisorchestra.org. The Northwest Indiana Symphony

Every Christmas Story Ever Told (and then Some), Chicago Street Theatre, 154 W Chicago St, Valparaiso. 219.464.1636. chicagostreet.org. Three actors perform every holiday special, song and tradition they can think of in this madcap romp.

DEC 12

Lisa Lampanelli, 8pm, Horseshoe Casino Hammond, 777 Casino Center Dr, Hammond. 866.711.7463. caesars.com/horseshoehammond. The stand-up comedian performs.

DEC 16

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis, 7:30-9:30pm, The Mendel Center at Lake Michigan College, 2755 E Napier Ave, Benton Harbor, Mich. 269.927.1221. themendelcenter.com.

Grammy Award winner Chip Davis’ show with the Christmas music and multimedia effects in an intimate setting.

DEC 18

Holiday Pops! 7:45pm, Memorial Opera House, 104 Indiana Ave, Valparaiso. 219.548.9137. memorialoperahouse.com. A musical collection of holiday favorites and sing-alongs for the whole family to enjoy.

DEC 18

Jackie Evancho, 9pm, Silver Creek Event Center, Four Winds Casino, 11111 Wilson Rd, New Buffalo, Mich. 800.745.3000. fourwindscasino.com/events.

The America’s Got Talent star performs.

DEC 19

Christmas at the Acorn, 8pm, Acorn Theater, 107 Generations Dr, Three Oaks, Mich. 269.756.3879. acorntheater.com. The Harbor Country Opera performs for the 11th year.

DEC 20

The Oak Ridge Boys Christmas Night Out, 4pm, Star Plaza Theatre, 8001 Delaware Pl, Merrillville. 800.745.3000. starplazatheatre.com. The award-winning musicians perform their classics.

DEC 31

New Year’s Eve Ball, 8pm-1am, LaPorte Civic Auditorium, 1001 Ridge St, LaPorte. 219.362.3178. lpchamber.com. Ring in the New Year with the Greater LaPorte Chamber of Commerce. Black tie optional.

DEC 31

New Year’s Eve Bash 2015, 8pm, Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza, 800 E 81st Ave, Merrillville.

219.769.6600. starplazatheatre.com. An annual year-end event featuring a property-wide collection of dance parties, comedy shows, live entertainment and world-class performances.

DEC 31

Super Happy Funtime Burlesque Show, 8pm, Acorn Theater, 107 Generations Dr, Three Oaks, Mich. 269.756.3879. acorntheater.com. Utterly unique and unclassifiable, a live band, an original work of musical theater, a comedy show, and a bawdy and sexy burlesque production.

December 2015 |

31

Back Pain? Neck Pain?

Headaches?

Celebrating 48 years

Best Authentic Italian Restaurant in the Area!

For a fee of only $20 we will provide all new patients with: • Consultation with The Doctor • Orthopedic and Neurological Exam • Report of Findings

November 16 - December 16, 2015 Kauffman Chiropractic will donate $20 to the PINK RIBBON SOCIETY!!

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prepared Pasta, Veal, Risotto, Seafood and Steak cooked to perfection!

Be sure to save room for our Delicious Desserts.

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Free Bruschetta Appetizer*

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DR. ROBERT KAUFFMAN DR. KELSI DEMITT Chiropractor Physician Chiropractor Physician

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Give CollegeChoice 529

THE GIFT THAT WILL GROW THEIR FUTURE. Toys and games are fun, but education lasts a lifetime.

Young people with education savings accounts are six times more likely to further their education after high school. And every dollar saved now is one that won’t be borrowed later.

CollegeChoice 529 is a SMART way to save: • • •

Contributions can grow tax-free.

Savings can be used for tax-free qualified expenses at ANY eligible post-secondary school.

Indiana residents may qualify for a 20% state income tax credit of up to $1,000 a year!*

Give the gift that will open doors to their future – and watch them grow.

OPEN AN ACCOUNT OR CONTRIBUTE WITH $10 TODAY!

collegechoicedirect.com

For more information about the CollegeChoice 529 Direct Savings Plan (“CollegeChoice 529”), call 1.866.485.9415 or visit www.collegechoicedirect.com to obtain a Disclosure Statement, which includes investment objectives, risks, charges, expenses, and other important information; read and consider it carefully before investing. Ascensus Broker Dealer Services, Inc. (“ABD”) is Distributor of CollegeChoice 529.

If you are not an Indiana taxpayer, consider before investing whether your or the beneficiary’s home state offers any state tax or other benefits that are only available for investments in such state’s qualified tuition program.

CollegeChoice 529 is administered by the Indiana Education Savings Authority (Authority). ABD, the Program Manager, and its affiliates, have overall responsibility for the day-to-day operations, including investment advisory, recordkeeping and administrative services, and marketing. CollegeChoice 529’s Portfolios invest in: (i) mutual funds; or (ii) an FDIC-insured omnibus savings account held in trust by the Authority at Sallie Mae Bank. Except for the Savings Portfolio, investments in CollegeChoice 529 are not insured by the FDIC. Units of the Portfolios are municipal securities and the value of units will vary with market conditions.

Investment returns will vary depending upon the performance of the Portfolios you choose. Except to the extent of FDIC insurance available for the Savings Portfolio, depending on market conditions, you could lose all or a portion of your money by investing in CollegeChoice 529. Account Owners assume all investment risks as well as responsibility for any federal and state tax consequences.

Not FDIC-Insured (except for the Savings Portfolio). Savings Not FDIC-insured (except for the Savings Portfolio). No Bank, State or Federal Guarantee. May Lose Value. * Indiana taxpayers who contribute to a CollegeChoice 529 account become eligible for a 20% state income tax credit of up to $1,000 per year.

DULGE A Cup of Comfort

H

PHOTO BY PENNY FRAZIER, PHOTO STYLING BY MICHALINE TOMICH

ot chocolate has a magical quality to it, warming even the coldest of hearts on a blustery day. Paired with the holiday season, the lovable drink is downright spellbinding. Try this recipe at your next Christmas party, or simply whenever you have the winter blues.

1 ounce semisweet or dark chocolate, chopped or shaved into small pieces 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder 1 cup milk 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (optional, to taste) 1 pinch salt

In a small saucepan, mix the chocolate, cocoa powder and 1/2 cup of the milk over low heat. Stir continuously until the chocolate is completely melted.

Add the rest of the milk and the salt.

Stir, then allow to heat the rest of the way through. Stir in sugar to taste.

Pour into a mug and top with marshmallows or whipped cream, if desired.

Source: food52.com

December 2015 |

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| December 2015

Good Spirits

I

How to Dress Your Holiday Bar Cart

f you’re hosting a holiday gathering this year, a bar cart—all the rage among party cognoscenti—is a must.

Valparaiso event planner Michelle Samardzija designed a bar cart for Inspired Living and provides more useful tips than the bubbles that will fill your champagne glass at the midnight toast. Cheers!

THE INSPIRATION

For the holidays, I like to keep things traditional while adding a little something that is on trend for the season. This year, it is all about plaid! I added a simple plaid ribbon to various places along the cart.

Even the Hammond caramels have a touch of plaid on the label. Accent with pops of gold, bold reds, and traditional greens.

THE LIQUOR

When deciding what liquors to stock your bar cart with, think about what your friends and family love to drink. It can get pretty pricey trying to get a nice bottle of each liquor type, so I have narrowed it down for you.

A Good Scotch

My husband loves to drink his scotch on the rocks with a splash of water, so making sure it has a great quality flavor is a must.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BETH FLETCHER PHOTOGRAPHY

A Reposado Tequila

It’s not a party unless Don Julio is invited.

A reposado tequila is aged at least two months in an oak barrel, which gives it a much smoother flavor than your general bottle of blanco.

Vodka

Some people are forever loyal to the “crowd pleaser” liquor. For your vodka drinkers, be sure to have garnishes and mixers on hand.

Rum

Not everyone wants to fuss about with fancy cocktails. Rum is a perfect go-to liquor for people who just want to make a drink. Rum and Coke is a staple at any

bar, but you can spice it up with a splash of lime, lemon, or even coconut water.

Whiskey

When you have a distillery near your town, you shop local! Take a drive up to Journeyman Distillery in Three Oaks and grab a bottle or two for the holidays. It’s a great excuse to take the tour, which ends with a whiskey tasting.

Wine

It can be tempting to fill your bar with just bottles of wine, since there are so many good flavors from around the world available at every grocery store.

However, this is a holiday party! Save the wine tasting for another day. To keep your wine drinkers happy, it’s good to

have a nice bottle or two.

Beer

I love craft beer. A lot. Like I could supplement my meals with it. Featuring a local craft beer is a great way to introduce your guests to something new while showing off your beer skills. My current favorite local brewery is Burn ‘Em Brewing in Michigan City. For the holidays, try Kreamed Corn, Long Johns On, or my personal favorite, Coconoats.

Garnishes and Mixes

Fresh oranges, lemons, limes, cranberries, rosemary Coke, Vermouth, cranberry juice, apple cider, simple syrup, tonic water, soda, salt and sugar

December 2015 |

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| December 2015

SNACKS

Have something sweet around for people who are playing bartender.

Chicagoland Popcorn, located in Hobart, has so many flavors to choose from. For the holidays, go with cranberry, caramel, and white chocolate.

DIY: PAPER STRAW BUNTING Making your own bunting is easy to do and the perfect way to add some DIY to your holiday cart.

Materials: 6 to 7 paper straws and a 5-foot piece of string ■ C ut paper straws into three equal pieces.

■ P ut three paper straw pieces on the string.

■ Bring the string back through the first straw, creating a triangle.

■ R epeat!

ACCESSORIES

Things you should have handy to make perfect cocktails: ■ Martini shaker ■ Disposable cups ■ Shot glasses ■ Bar spoon ■ Skewers (a long metal ■ Juicer spoon for mixing) ■ Vermouth ■ Paper straws (for martini drinkers) ■ Salt ■ Bottle opener, both ■ Sugar ■ Ice beer and wine ■ Napkins and towels

COCKTAIL RECIPES

Cranberry Rosé All Day ■ 1 bottle of Rosé ■ Splash of cranberry juice Garnish with fresh cranberries and rosemary.

Caramel Apple Sangria ■ 1 bottle Pinot Grigio ■ 6 cups County Line Orchard Apple Cider ■ 1 cup Caramel Vodka Garnish with freshly diced apples.

December 2015 |

37

Sweet and Simple 38

| December 2015

H

oliday season is upon us, and with it come nostalgia and a desire to continue traditions. In my family, the cookie and treat making has the men and women in their kitchens for hours leading up to Christmas. This assures that our treat tables far outweigh the tables with actual food on them. This time of year also has many people feeling rushed and overwhelmed, trying to fit in all of the holiday events and hoping to inspire Pinterest-worthy results.

We are sharing some recipes to help even the least skilled in the confectionery arts join those cookie swaps and still maintain time to relax and enjoy the season.

■ SHAWNA SLAVICH

Russian Tea

Shared by Taylor Emmons of Pie Holes in LaPorte

This is my grandmother’s recipe for Russian Tea. My grandma, mom, sister and I used to make it every year around Christmas time. The smell of the tea and the flavors bring back so many wonderful memories. You can make this tea in a large batch, fill mason jars with it, add a pretty tea cup and it makes the perfect Christmas gift.

Ingredients

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA DEKOCK/FOREVER OCTOBER PHOTOGRAPHY

1 cup instant tea powder 2 cups Tang 3 ounces powdered lemonade mix 2 cups white sugar 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

Directions Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl and store in a sealed container (or jar) in a cool dry place.

Use 3-4 tablespoons with one cup of hot water for the perfect winter beverage.

Grand Edith’s Peanut Butter Fudge

Every year at Christmas, my brothers ask my grandmother for peanut butter fudge. For years she didn’t share the recipe, sure that we wouldn’t eat it if we knew her secret ingredient. It is still fun to test “newbies” in our family to see if they can correctly guess the secret ingredient.

Ingredients 2 2 1/2 1 1 1

cups sugar tablespoons butter cup milk cup peanut butter sleeve saltines, crushed teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions Place the sugar, butter and milk in a saucepan and heat on medium, stirring occasionally, until it starts to boil. Once it

starts to boil, boil for 1 minute only and remove from heat.

Stir in peanut butter, saltines and vanilla. Mix well. Pour into a greased 8 x 8 pan and chill.

Cut into bite-size pieces.

Note: To crush the saltines, place in a plastic bag and use a rolling pin over them. The key here is crushed. You want them fine. A food processor would work well, too.

December 2015 |

39

Reindeer Food

My nieces and nephews have come to love this recipe that was handed down to me by my Aunt Sue. In the years that we can squeeze in a baking day, this is always their favorite to make, and they expect it to be at the Christmas Eve gathering.

Ingredients

2 2 2 1 2 2 1

cups Wheat Chex cups Corn Chex cups Rice Chex cup Cheerios cups unsalted pretzels cups plain M&M chocolates (8-ounce) white chocolate baking bar

Directions Mix Wheat Chex, Rice Chex, Corn Chex, Cheerios, pretzels, and M&Ms in a large bowl. Spread a large sheet of wax paper over countertop.

Melt white chocolate squares in microwave. Pour melted chocolate over mixture. Mix together very fast.

Spread evenly over wax paper and let dry, then break apart.

Saltine Cracker Toffee

Nearly 8 years ago a friend introduced me to this recipe. She brought it to me as a treat to go along with a dinner she made for us after the birth of our son. The label on the container had me questioning her sanity, but now it is a favorite addiction that we like to make for gifts.

Ingredients 4 1 1 2 3/4

ounces saltine crackers cup butter cup dark brown sugar cups semisweet chocolate chips cup chopped pecans

Directions Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Line cookie sheet with saltine crackers in single layer.

In a saucepan combine the sugar and the butter. Bring to a boil and boil for 3 minutes.

Immediately pour over saltines and spread, covering crackers completely.

Bake for 5 to 6 minutes. Remove from oven and sprinkle chocolate chips over the top. Let sit for 5 minutes. Spread melted chocolate and top with chopped nuts. Cool completely and break into pieces.

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| December 2015

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CLOSED TUESDAY

Sep-May, Wed-Sun, 12-5pm

Jun-Aug, Wed-Mon, 11-5pm

A SOUTH SHORE TRADITION!

THURSDAY, DEcEmbER 10 7:30 pm • Star Plaza Theatre With the Symphony ChoruS, plum Grove muSiC, & munSter hiGh SChool Chorale Get into the spirit of the season with a combination of contemporary and classic holiday favorites. Sing-along with the Chorus to beloved carols and keep an eye out for visitors from the North Pole. With over 3,000 people last year, make sure you get your tickets early for this South Shore tradition!

Bring a donation of a non-perishable food item!

Tickets $25 - $65 • $10 Students

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HOME

HOLIDAY

Home HAMMOND

By Julie Dean Kessler

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| December 2015

â–

Photography by Tony V. Martin

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(Clockwise from top right) Miniature lighted trees and a spotlighted oldfashioned sled lead the way to the former Edward C. Minas mansion home of Scott Fech and Rick Soria in Hammond, Ind. At the upstairs landing, three of 13 Christmas trees soar to the graduated archways. A double pocket door to the dining room has nearly all its original diamond-shaped stained-glass.

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hey’d yearned for the stately mansion from their first glimpse of it. Rick Soria and Scott Fech were captivated by its elegance and intrigued with its history. Six years would pass before a curious confluence of two events would make ownership in 2014 possible, providing a setting for holiday décor of unusual but tasteful exuberance.

Rick and Scott were looking to move from Valparaiso to Hammond to be closer to Chicago, where Scott works for University of Chicago Laboratory Schools. But a few years ago the real estate market was in such a slump that hardly any properties were moving, including their home in Valparaiso. Their disappointment was keen when someone else bought the mansion. But after a few years the economy picked up and so did their excitement for the Hammond home, for, just two days after listing their Valparaiso house, the mansion went on the market again.

“This mansion has such wonderful history,” Rick says, and it’s clear the two share a deep appreciation for the Tudor Revival-style home’s august heritage. It was built by entrepreneur Edward C. Minas in 1928 and retains its original elegance. Now Scott, Rick, and baby Beckett

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are comfortably at home there.

Many of the original lead glass panes are in the pocket doors separating the dining room and the foyer, and the stained-glass door in the foyer still suggests the interior’s beauty. The original chandelier and sconces light the dining room.

“We’ve made very minor, cosmetic changes,” Rick explains. “We changed the color of paint in a couple of rooms and added textured wallpaper on one master bedroom wall and in the powder room downstairs.”

Otherwise the two-story mansion exudes the stately charm and features unique to its era.

Each door lock opens with a skeleton key, and the butler’s quarters over the garage is still there, no less beautiful than the rest of the house. In the enclosed solarium, the terrazzo flooring gleams. Four bedrooms, three full baths, and the powder room with marble flooring ensure ample room for owners and guests—and for the 13 Christmas trees. Each is full-size and fully trimmed, each with its own theme. Scott and Rick love all things Disney, so one tree is replete with the appropriate ornaments. With 9-and-ahalf-month-old Beckett, “We just had to have everything wonderful for Christmas,” Rick says, and the mansion’s 5,200 square feet provide a spacious palette for holiday décor.

Upstairs, the butler’s quarters’ large sitting room has been a favorite place to relax and enjoy the PBS-TV series Downton Abbey and one of the home’s three wood-burning fireplaces. A wall sloping from ceiling to floor adds to the coziness here, yet the clean lines of its window alcove reflect Scott and Rick’s overall style of décor, a masterful combination of modern furniture with a minimum of fuss that allows the features of this home to be the star.

All four bedrooms, including a master bedroom and bath, are on the second floor. One of the two guest bedrooms’ pale blue walls and blue-and-tan bed coverings prompted its description as the beach bedroom. Baby Beckett’s room is a Disney delight, with a happy Mickey Mouse on one wall and a red-and-blue color scheme. “We kept the furniture in here white so it would pop from the blue and red,” Rick says.

Nearly all the flooring throughout is the original hardwood. Three arches guide the way toward the staircase, where two Christmas trees frame the landing. On the main floor, the great room fireplace is mantel-less, the wood surround reaching to the ceiling. As in the butler’s quarters, an impressive Christmas tree adds a glow during the holidays.

Outdoors, the back courtyard is a favorite place to entertain in clement weather. “The sound system that’s throughout the house is here, too.

That and the wood-burning fireplace make it a great place to entertain, and we certainly get our use of it in the crisp fall weather,” Rick says.

During the holidays, though, the glow comes from small lighted trees along the walkway, from the windows’ glimpses of cheery Christmas trees— and from the joy Rick and Scott experience in their parenthood and mansion-come-true.

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(Clockwise from left) The dining room’s wall sconces and the chandelier, brightened further with holiday ornaments, are original to the 1928-built mansion. A small tree, in addition to the 13 full-sized, fully decorated ones, stands near a picture of the Eiffel Tower, a reminder of the couple’s trip to Paris. Each tree is themed; this one displays photos of beloved family and friends. Baby Beckett’s nursery is vibrant in a Disney theme.

Upstairs in the butler’s quarters, a parquet floor is elegant, while a fireplace adds a comfy atmosphere.

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Outside the Box Interior designer Cathi Lloyd gives easy ideas for amping up your holiday décor

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love the holidays. Of course, being a decorator means I love to change and redesign rooms and accessories.

Maybe that’s why I enjoy the holiday so much—it gives me a chance to decorate my home all over again. So if you’re anything like me, you’re already thinking and doing a lot of holiday decorating.

Try a few new ideas this holiday season to welcome your family and friends into your home and celebrate the season in style.

LAMPS/PILLOWS

You can add a festive look to pillows and lampshades in any room by simply using decorative wired ribbon. Wrap the ribbon around the lampshade or pillow and tie a pretty bow. You can even tie tiny ornaments or holly onto the bow—such an easy enhancement to the everyday items in any room.

■ CATHI LLOYD

COLOR

Christmas is much more than traditional red and green these days. Check out the holiday decorations in any store and you’ll find every color of the rainbow. This is definitely the time to add color, sparkle and shine to your home, both inside and outside.

If your living space is decorated in neutral colors, this is your chance to live with color. If your favorite color is blue, go for teal and silver ornaments and add some interest with peacock feathers.

Plums and purples team up with ivory and cream for a royal color combination for a stunning tree as well as regal dining room accompaniments.

Gold and silver will add sparkle to any holiday decorating color scheme. If your room already has colorful décor, you can coordinate your holiday decorating to the color scheme in the room.

You can also coordinate your holiday wrapping paper, bags and bows to complement your tree decorations and colors.

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WINDOWS

Soft draperies add color, warmth and interest to the room at any time of the year, but what if you don’t have any window coverings? You can add interest to “naked” windows by hanging wreaths and ornaments in each window in the room. What a way to liven things up!

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF DECORATING DEN INTERIORS, WINDOWS PHOTO BY JOHN TRIGIAN

FIREPLACES

Fireplaces are an architectural feature in many great rooms, family rooms and living rooms.

For good interior design make the fireplace the focal point in the room. When rearranging the furniture to accommodate the Christmas tree, cozy the extra chairs up close to the fireplace and add some holiday pillows. When one tree isn’t enough for your room, go ahead and flank the fireplace with two small trees to add even more Christmas cheer.

Of course we hang our stockings on the fireplace but did you ever think of enhancing the mantel with fresh evergreens? Sprig in flowers, poinsettias, candles and ornaments. If the décor is rustic, add twigs and branches and fresh holly berries. Not only is this a beautiful and natural look, but it will also smell wonderful.

TABLES

Show off pretty ornaments, candy and Christmas treasures in clear glass containers. You can use inexpensive vases, candle holders and jars in varying sizes and heights to showcase your collections. Group them together to tell a color story or theme. What an easy and simple way to create holiday cheer!

CATHI LLOYD Decorating Den Interiors 219.365.0198 cathilloyd.decoratingden.com

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tree

Family 8 ways to personalize your Christmas tree

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othing brings a family together like the holidays, the best time of the year for keeping and starting new traditions. Growing up, decorating the Christmas tree was always the celebrated event that kick-started the holiday season. In our house, the continued desire to make the tree more unique and special each year led to a tree in nearly every room—not always themed, but always personalized. From homemade kids’ ornaments to elegant antiques, there were magical wonders to which all of the kids and family contributed. Today, as a mom, designer and decorator of hundreds of client trees, the breadth of ideas our team has created stretches far beyond decking the halls with boughs of holly.

From Papa Mike’s old toolbox, the garage junk drawers and even Jack’s playroom, would-be tree décor is all around us. We’ve gathered our favorite junk and pulled together unique and easy ways to personalize your tree that will have you and the family rocking around it in no time.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY PENNY FRAZIER

■ MICHALINE TOMICH

HAVE A JUNKY JUNKY CHRISTMAS TREE (RIGHT)

Dive into Grandpa’s old toolbox, Grandma’s old button jar and maybe even the ol’ junk drawer. Piece together parts and tools from the garage. Challenge yourself or the kids to make a sentimental gift out of leftover hardware parts by looking at parts and pieces upside down, backwards and jumbled. My own mom pulled together Dad’s leftover project parts and pieces to create one-of-a-kind junk angels. These angels have sentimental value without the cost. Nail, screw or wire on the parts and your angel is sure to get his wings.

Small ornaments can be made by helping the kids super glue the parts in the shape of an angel, snowman or even spelling out their names. And bonus: you finally get to clean out the junk drawer!

SHADOWBALL MEMORIES

Clear round glass or plastic ball ornaments make great shadowboxes.

Start with the clear ball (buy the ones with the biggest opening to push items through) and take off the top hook. Fill the ball with small items that remind you of special moments of the past year. You have to choose bendable items that will pass through the neck of the ornament, but the tight squeeze is worth it. Your graduation tassel, sand from a vacation, dried flower petals from a wedding or Grandma’s antique handkerchief.

Fill the clear ball with items of sentiment and use a fine tip paint marker to date the special occasion on a paper you add inside or on the outside of the glass. Your tree will become a snow globe of fun memories.

GET ARTSY

Pearl finish ornaments make great canvases for art commemorating special occasions such as Baby’s First Christmas or your special anniversaries. The pearlized ornaments work exceptionally well with colored Sharpie markers.

Let older kids decorate the pearl glass ornaments (also works on plastic pearl ornaments) with colored Sharpies. Outline the design in black Sharpie. Then embellish the art with sparkly craft jewels. The large-size ornaments make a great gift, especially if you create a special matching decorated box to amplify the idea.

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ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS (ABOVE)

Design a simple two-sided wish list ornament or cut out a Christmas photo and draw lines on the backside. Let all of the kids and grandkids write their top three wish list items on the back of their own circle ornament. Santa is sure to see it on the tree, and in years to come, kids can reminisce about the great gifts they asked for in the past.

THE TIMELESS TREE (LEFT)

Celebrating family, past Christmases and joyful occasions can be part of your decorating time by creating a life-size family tree. Dress your tree with good old-fashioned memories by finding or printing old photos. After the lights and basic ornaments are in place to create a sparkling backdrop, weave old lace or ribbon into the branches. Mini clothespins work best to clip the photos to the ribbon or branches. If time allows, decorate the clips with old buttons or jewelry parts. For added depth, don’t be afraid to push framed photos into the back on the branches and between lights. On party day, encourage family and guests to search and find their pictures. Mix in some of Grandma or Grandpa’s antique ornaments to add to the nostalgia. It’s a great conversation piece and you can even let people add to the tree or select a photo to take home.

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THE BASEMENT TREE

Give in to the game room. The place where the roughhousing, teenagers, friends and toddlers dwell. The place where no antique or favorite glass ornament would dare try to survive.

Put up the most kid-friendly, teen-friendly tree in town. Why not let the kids’ most current interests be your theme? You can actually trick the younger ones into cleaning by having them select their favorite toys to display for all to see. Matchbox cars, army guys, Legos, and superheroes hanging off a branch with a hook or a ribbon all make great ornaments. Pipe cleaners make great kid-friendly hooks as well. Mix in sparkly foam ornament balls and colorful lights with candy canes.

For older kids, here’s a second idea… include karate belts as garland, soccer or footballs as fillers, tournament medals, ribbons, baseball cards and other sports, band or scout articles for added kick. It’s sure to be a fan-tastic crowd pleaser.

SIT, STAY, ENJOY

That’s what they’ll do when they see how cute your celebration of the family’s best friend turns out. Fetch some biscuits and wrap them in curly ribbon to use as garland. Hang Blu’s soon-to-be dog toy gifts off the branches and give them to him one toy at a time as Christmas nears. Display collars and tags from the puppy days or from past pooches and kitties. Retrieve some old leashes from storage to use as garland. To keep it festive, fill the in-between spaces with sparkly ball ornaments and ribbons, all in one or two colors to tie the whole theme together.

Pet lovers, rejoice: we can teach an old tree new tricks.

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THANK YOU STORY CONCEPT AND WRITING Michaline Tomich, Chief Happiness Officer of Happy Day Shirt and Event Company and Mixdesign PHOTO DESIGN SETUP AND PROPS Joellen Pavnica, Nicole Biter, Nicole Gladstone, Michael Plys and Michaline Tomich of Happy Day Shirt and Event Company and Mixdesign

THE SNOWMAN TREE

Theming a side tree for added glimmer at the holidays is a fun way to brighten things up. If you don’t have a tree full of ornaments or want to change up the typical tree, how about building a snowman, indoors? A small thin holiday tree, a top hat and scarf and a strand of large white bulb lights with one orange bulb where Frosty’s nose falls is a fun way to side light a room.

For an added touch, spray black sparkly paint onto backyard sticks for arms.

White ornaments, balls, snowflakes and even mittens can be added to deck out Frosty’s body. It’s sure to warm up the room without melting any snow friends.

LOCATION Private residence in Cedar Lake Happy Day Shirt and Event Company 21 E US 30, Schererville 219.322.7190, mixdesign.com Happy Day is a creative company providing shirts, gifts and event planning. With a battle cry of “Make it your own,” Happy Day has set out to make certain that creative solutions are accessible to everyone, not just businesses that need branding. Happy Day provides services such as event props, rentals, theming, event floral, shirts, invites, sponsorship management services, entertainment coordination, PR, setup and more.

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the Why Karen Maravilla goes all out to promote the Region

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By Damian Rico

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Photography by Esther Gallarday

here aren’t enough hours in the day for Karen Maravilla. While many would look at her schedule as exhausting, she looks at it as an uplifting journey.

In her life, Maravilla wears many hats, and not just the vintage ones sold in her shop. She is the owner of It’s Just Serendipity in downtown Hammond, she serves as president of the Downtown Hammond Council and as a board member on the Munster Chamber of Commerce, to name just a few.

Her passion is celebrating her community and when it comes to the

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holidays, she feels “the Region is simply inspiring.”

Maravilla is one of eight children who grew up with their parents Sam and Beverly as role models. “I was fortunate to grow up in a home that was very loving and centered around family life and traditions,” Maravilla says. “I learned so much from my family. I still enjoy entertaining and surrounding myself with people who love life.”

Fortunately for Maravilla, “the love of her life” Raymundo Garcia, owner of the ever-so-popular Taco Real, feels the same about family values and encourages her to share her holiday cheer. Garcia accompanies Maravilla on many of her holiday excursions and

Karen Maravilla of Hammond is owner of It’s Just Serendipity and serves on multiple boards dedicated to community life.

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Karen and her longtime boyfriend, Raymundo Garcia, are doing construction on an old Hammond storefront and loft for their new business venture called Eat.

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Karen’s store, It’s Just Serendipity, is host to an enchanting display of vintage and antique wares.

embraces her enthusiasm.

“Every year, we head downtown [Chicago] to watch It’s A Wonderful Life,” Maravilla says. “It’s just such a fascinating story and serves as a reminder of what the holidays are really all about. It’s been a tradition of ours for the past fourteen years now and I absolutely love it.”

Maravilla loves being close to downtown Chicago but quickly reminds peers of what a great and “underrated” art district the Region can be. Another annual tradition for Maravilla is gathering her friends and heading down to Hammond’s Towle Theater and taking in the wonderment of A Fabulous 50’s Christmas.

This year, Maravilla is serving as event host for Downtown Hammond’s 8th Annual Holiday Kickoff Celebration.

“I know it sounds cliche, but I love being home for the holidays,” Maravilla adds. “That’s what makes the holidays amazing. Being surrounded by your family and friends is what experiencing the season is all about.”

Maravilla knows firsthand what home is all about as her family moved to Waco, Texas, in her teens for her father’s work. “I had a difficult time,” Maravilla says. “People just weren’t as friendly and welcoming and I’m pretty shy when I’m around people I don’t know very well. The move helped me appreciate and embrace how wonderful Northwest Indiana really is and I was a different person upon my return.”

Maravilla welcomes ideas and events that are unique to the Region and oftentimes, is the creator of many of them. One of Maravilla’s pet projects includes Downtown Hammond’s Bizarre Bazaar, created to

highlight what downtown Hammond has to offer.

In its day, downtown Hammond used to be the place to frequent with its quaint stores, delectable restaurants and explosive night life. After all, it was the inspiration behind the holiday classic A Christmas Story.

Maravilla says the Bizarre Bazaar was designed to be a unique event that strayed from typical farmers markets, region festivals and street fairs. “It’s an amazingly outrageous event,” she says. “This year we had Svengoolie and the most rewarding part was the people’s faces and stories about him. There were generations of fans celebrating and remembering the icon that we all recognize. It was beautiful to watch.”

“I love being busy and being part of the wonderful opportunities in our Region,” Maravilla says. “It’s easy to complain and get caught up in the negativity, but that is a choice. Just like it’s a choice to make a difference in your community.”

Perhaps her greatest passion is her store in downtown Hammond, filled with treasures and collectibles. Maravilla says her store is an extension of her personality and a reflection of her interests. The repurpose chest of favorites includes antiques, art, furniture, clothing, jewelry and offers customers a treasure trove of discoveries.

Maravilla lives by the words of Mahatma Gandhi: “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”

“I am a positive person and I have to be around people that are positive,” Maravilla says. “I have been honored to accept many awards and be featured in numerous articles in the local press, but my ultimate fulfillment is making a difference in people’s lives. Sharing my blessings is what I really live for.”

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Christmas Movie Night

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Styling by Happy Day Shirt and Event Company Photography by Penny Frazier

erhaps it’s the snow, or the nostalgia, or the dreamy presence of Santa and the North Pole... whatever the reason, Christmas movies are a beloved tradition of the holiday season. From Elf ’s journey through the Lincoln Tunnel to Ralphie’s first shot of the Red Ryder B.B. gun to the growing heart of the Grinch, yuletide films host endless scenes that capture our hearts and fill our memories.

This year, why not celebrate these films with a Christmas movie night? Invite your friends and family over for an evening of snacks, sweets, and cinematic delight. PJs strongly encouraged.

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Delight your guests as soon as they enter with thematic props, snacks and drinks for the taking. The marquee signs that are trending right now will fit right in with your movie night.

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Choose a movie to be your theme for the night. We chose The Polar Express, subtly incorporating trains, lanterns and the word “believe” throughout the décor, in addition to general cozy Christmas motifs like ice skates, sleds and snowflakes.

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Use old film reels to indicate the evening’s purpose in a nostalgic way. We also placed sleigh bells—one of the signature plot pieces in The Polar Express—in various spots to tie in the theme.

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Put snacks in a lantern to draw in the theme and serve a muchneeded purpose: feeding your friends.

For added measure, give each of your guests a jar of popcorn to take home.

Frame a movie poster that best depicts your party. Use fabrics and ornaments to dress up the space. Have plenty of popcorn on hand for your guests to enjoy, but don’t be afraid to put it on display as a dÊcor element as well. Placing popcorn buckets on top of pillar candelabras is an easy way to add height to your scene.

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No need to go overboard with the food. Even desserts can be simple... think cookies, hot chocolate, movie candy. Your guests will appreciate noshing on their childhood faves.

The kids will love movie night, even more so if you give them a little souvenir to take home with them. Provide each child with a mini lantern so they will feel like one of the characters in the film.

THANK YOU PHOTO DESIGN SETUP AND PROPS Joellen Pavnica, Nicole Biter, Nicole Gladstone, Michael Plys and Michaline Tomich of Happy Day Shirt and Event Company and Mixdesign LOCATION Private residence in Cedar Lake Happy Day Shirt and Event Company 21 E US 30, Schererville 219.322.7190, mixdesign.com Happy Day is a creative company providing shirts, gifts and event planning. With a battle cry of “Make it your own,� Happy Day has set out to make certain that creative solutions are accessible to everyone, not just businesses that need branding.

Happy Day provides services such as event props, rentals, theming, event floral, shirts, invites, sponsorship management services, entertainment coordination, PR, setup and more.

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to the

NEW YEAR Photography by Michelle Hamstra

The Gamba sisters—Angela, Krystle and Michaelle—toast the new year.

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Ring in 2016 with a dress that will turn heads. The Gamba sisters—of the Gamba Ristorante family—model nine NYE gowns so modern and glamorous, they seem to have been made for the three Italian bombshells.

Grab some bubbly, join the party, and celebrate the new year with us, in style.

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Bariano by Bariano, $279

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Selena by Bari Jay, $190

Tatum by Bari Jay, $260

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Valencia by Dessy Group, $210

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Blair by Forever Unique, $510

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NYE MAKEUP TIPS, BY KRISSY VANDERWOUDE There are a few makeup essentials that I always reach for when dolling up my clients on New Year’s Eve. Those “must haves” are black eyeliner, glitter and red lipstick. I also finish every look with false lashes!

GLITTERY GOLD EYE AND RED LIP: 1. Using a flat eyeshadow brush, apply a shimmery bronze shadow to the eyelid. Suggested colors: “Woodwinked” by MAC or “Half Baked” by Urban Decay.

2. Use a fluffy brush and define the outer corner and crease of the eye with a matte brown eyeshadow. Suggested colors: “Espresso” by LORAC or “Handwritten” by MAC. 3. Take Urban Decay’s “Heavy Metal Glitter Eyeliner,” in the color “Midnight Cowboy,” and press onto the center of your eyelid (where the iris would be if eye were open).

Use your ring finger to evenly distribute glitter, and continue to layer until desired intensity is achieved.

4. Finish the eye with black eyeliner and mascara.

5. Outline lips with a red lipliner (such as NYX “Deep Red”). Fill in the lip with a matte red lipstick (my go-to is “Ruby Woo” by MAC).

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SHIMMERY SMOKY EYE: 1. A clean and easy way to achieve a smoky eye is to use a longwearing crème product, like MAC’s Paint Pot in “Blackground.” Use your ring finger and pat this product across entire eyelid, starting at the lashline and stopping at the crease. Also sweep this color along the bottom lashline and smudge with a Q-tip.

2. Add a beautiful shimmer by layering Urban Decay’s Moondust eyeshadow, in the color “Scorpio,” on top of the existing black crème shadow.

3. Rim the eye with a black kohl eyeliner (MAC “Smolder” is a personal favorite) and mascara.

4. Complete this look with a glossy neutral lip, blush and bronzer.

Jerica by Bari Jay, $260

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Aliza by Forever Unique, $850

Innes by Forever Unique, $310

THANK YOU MODELS Michaelle Gamba Krystle Gamba Angela Hanks

MAKEUP Krissy VanderWoude Makeup by Krissy V 219.781.5755; krissyv.com

DRESSES Le Salon 21 E Lincolnway, Ste Up 11 Washington St (beginning December) Valparaiso 219.380.0280; lesalonbridal.com

FOOD Hors d’oeuvres Gamba Ristorante 455 E 84th Dr, Merrillville 219.736.5000 gambaristorante.com

PHOTO STYLING Michelle Nikitaras Unveiled Weddings and Events (formerly AKM Events) Crown Point 219.512.5620; akmevents.com HAIR Aubree Thorsen Salon Sorella 219.512.6635

Gourmet ice cream sandwiches Coolhaus eatcoolhaus.com LOCATION Gamba Ristorante 455 E 84th Dr, Merrillville 219.736.5000 gambaristorante.com

Cedar by Forever Unique, $240

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Hours are: Mon by appt - Tues-Fri 11am-6pm - Sat 11am-5pm - Sun 11am-4pm

VIGORATE

PHOTO BY TONY V. MARTIN

G

Go Herbal

ifting can be a serious endeavor during the holiday season. For women, you can never go wrong with bath and body products they might not purchase for themselves otherwise. But with so many products on the market, and skin allergies rampant, you need to choose such gifts wisely.

It was her own skin sensitivity that led LaPorte’s Melynda Jadrnak, owner of Dark Horse Inspirations, to start making her own bath and skincare products.

Her Bear Paw Herbals line includes soaps, lotion bars, hand salves, lip balms, sugar scrubs, and more.

“When I was younger I had a lot of skin problems,” Jadrnak says.

“I was tired of spending a lot of money on items that did my skin no good. So I started tinkering.” Jadrnak’s background in science helped her figure out how to make own herbs, using a technique called solar infusion. She grows the herbs, harvests them, lets them dry out and then compounds the herbs and oils together. She then lets them sit in the sun for a period of time. After the solar infusion process, she adds beeswax, which she buys from a beekeeper just down the road.

“She’s so smart,” says Lora Shade, owner of Uptown Evolution in Whiting, where Jadrnak’s products are sold. “It’s not like she makes them from essential oils she buys from the store. She UPTOWN EVOLUTION grows her own ingredients or 1438 119th St, Whiting harvests them locally.”

219.741.7336 Shade, too, has skin allergies, which has made her a devoted DARK HORSE INSPIRATIONS fan of Bear Paw. “I like that Melynda Jadrnak it’s organic and doesn’t mess 219.221.5649

WHERE TO GO

“I WAS TIRED OF SPENDING A LOT OF MONEY ON ITEMS THAT DID MY SKIN NO GOOD. SO I STARTED TINKERING.” Melynda Jadrnak

with my allergies,” she says. “There are so many products out there with so much fragrance and it’s just unnatural and irritates a lot of people.”

Jadrnak says her hand salve is one of her—and many others’— favorite products. “It’s great for moisturizing,” she says. The beeswax in it coats the hands so you don’t have to reapply every time you wash your hands. “It’s absolutely wonderful for anyone who washes their hands a lot,” she says.

Shade says the lotion bars and lip balms are her best sellers among the Bear Paw line. She keeps samples of the Bear Paw items at her store for anyone who wants to try them; she’ll even give a mini hand massage using the lotion bars. “They’re great stocking stuffers,” Shade says. “Or we can put them in a nice basket as a collection.”

Other gift items available at Uptown Evolution—a quaint décor and gift shop on Whiting’s main strip—are soy-based candles from locally owned Antique Candle Works as well as a variety of unique handmade items from local artists.

■ JULIA PERLA HUISMAN

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Machelle Wagner, owner of Chelle’s and Green Garage in Chesterton, walks her dog to stay healthy during the busy holiday season.

Healthy Holidays MENTAL HEALTH

Set healthy boundaries. The holidays can involve endless work, family and social obligations that can become overwhelming, says Angie Cerniglia, associate marriage and family therapist with New Leaf Resources.

“Overcommitting yourself can lead to feeling anxious and stressed,” she says. “Set healthy boundaries on what you can and cannot do, and stick to them.”

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While others may not understand, taking care of oneself is important and you shouldn’t let guilt dictate your holiday, Cerniglia says. It’s OK to not be OK. The holidays can be a very painful time for people, and with that, there is pressure to put on a smile and pretend everything is fine when, in fact, it’s not.

Cerniglia says if the holidays are difficult, do not hesitate to seek help and support

from a friend, family member or professional counselor.

Don’t put self care on hold. Don’t stop doing the things that make you happy, Cerniglia says. “Whether it’s taking walks, reading a book, doing yoga or meeting with your counselor, keeping up on self-care will make for a more relaxed holiday season,” she says.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DONNA LIND

Staying fit during the cold winter months is vital to a person’s year-round health. While exercising may become more difficult for those who live in frigid temperatures, eating well and staying mentally healthy can be challenging as well.

Here’s what you need to know to stay fit—both physically and mentally.

Find moments to do something relaxing like reading. Prepping meals and snacks (right) in advance helps you eat healthy while on the go.

Have fun. In the busyness of the holidays, make time for activities you enjoy doing, even if it means saying no to something else, Cerniglia says. “This will lead to more feelings of enjoyment over the holiday season rather than frustration,” she says.

Get a Luxx lamp. Dr. Michael Ward, a family and sports medicine physician at Advocate South Suburban Hospital, says Luxx lamps can be useful as well because they emit light wavelengths that can help prevent seasonal affective disorder. If left untreated, the disorder can lead to more serious forms of depression in the winter months.

FITNESS

Hit the gym or rec center. Exercises that can be accomplished indoors include jogging, dancing, swimming, racquetball and basketball, Ward suggests. Stationary equipment, such as bikes, treadmills or elliptical machines, can be found at local gyms or can be purchased for your home.

“You can also purchase a Mag Trainer,

which is an inexpensive piece of exercise equipment that allows people to turn outdoor bikes into an indoor stationary bike,” he says.

Take group classes. Classes found at local centers or through private trainers, such as aqua therapy, yoga, tai-chi or martial arts, also can be fun, Ward says. “All of these exercises release endogenous endorphins, which improve our mood and can help stave off depression.”

Take advantage of the season. Kelly Devine Rickert, a registered dietitian and Franciscan Wellcare health coach, says the holidays are the perfect time to enjoy the scenery. “The best way to not gain weight during the holidays is to burn off the extra calories,” she says. “Take a walk around the neighborhood to admire the Christmas lights.” Raking leaves during the fall for 20 minutes burns off 100 calories, she says.

Have a busy season? Look for short periods of time, at least 10 minutes, during the day in which you can do physical activity, such as push-ups, sit-ups, planks, jumping jacks or stairs, Rickert says.

“THE BEST ONTHE-GO SNACKS COMBINE A CARBOHYDRATE HIGH IN FIBER AND A PROTEIN LOW IN FAT ...”

Kelly Devine Rickert, a registered dietitian and Franciscan Wellcare health coach

NUTRITION

Pack and plan meals. Planning ahead will prevent you from grabbing unhealthy items while on the go this holiday season, and that goes for snacks as well, Rickert says.

“The best on-the-go snacks combine a carbohydrate high in fiber and a protein low in fat, such as an apple and string cheese, hummus and wheat crackers, and celery and peanut butter,” she says.

Drink water. Drink 16 ounces of water and have a light snack about one to three hours before heading to a holiday party to help curb hunger, Rickert says. “Limit alcoholic beverages at parties,” she adds. “The more you drink, the more you will eat.”

Offer healthy recipes. When attending a party, offer to bring a healthy dish.

“Most recipes can be made healthier by making small substitutions, and family and friends won’t taste the difference,” Rickert says.

■ CHRISTINE BRYANT

December 2015 |

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“LIFE SHOULD NOT ONLY BE LIVED, IT SHOULD BE CELEBRATED.”

PHOTO BY MICHELLE HAMSTRA

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