SIMPLYkc Magazine February 2016

FEB‘16 | Vol. 5 No. 10

GLAMOUROUS GOWNS FOR YOUR WEDDING LOCAL NONPROFIT HELPS NICU FAMILIES

IT’S DENTAL HEALTH MONTH!

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CONTENTS FEB ‘16

AROUND TOWN 12

LITTLE WARRIOR PRINCESSES: HELPING NICU FAMILIES IN NEED

APP OF THE MONTH 14 APP MADE ESPECIALLY FOR COUPLES

IN FOCUS 16

JENKINS & LEBLANC DENTISTRY: HELPING KIDS SMILE

HOME & GARDEN 18

UNIQUE WAYS TO KEEP YOUR HOUSE WARM THROUGH THE WINTER

FASHION 20 AGING WELL 28 AGING COOPERATIVELY

PETS 30

PROTECT YOUR PET THIS WINTER

HEALTH & BEAUTY 32

20

45

NATURAL BEAUTY

FINANCE 34

SO YOU NEED AN ACCOUNTANT?

IN FOCUS 36

STOP THE CLOCK AT THE SPA AT BRIARCLIFF

PARENTING 38 LOOK, MOM, NO CAVITIES!

MIND & BODY 40

HOW BEING GRATEFUL CAN ACTUALLY IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH

IN FOCUS 42

DR. MELISSA BOEREMA PROVIDES QUALITY CARE TO PATIENTS

GOOD TASTES 44

40

30

WHO DOESN’T LOVE COMFORT FOOD?

OUR WORLD 45

SUSTAINABLE WINES: IS IT WORTH IT?

TRENDS 46

TREND WATCH: ATHLEISURE

7 THINGS 48

7 ALTERNATIVE HOLIDAYS TO VALENTINE’S DAY

HAPPENINGS 50

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WELCOME FROM THE EDITOR

A SURPRISING PRESCRIPTION REAPS REAL RESULTS I have a tiny little wooden plaque in my home office that has somehow made it through five moves. It’s a marvel really.

I can’t find my rolling pin, my handheld vacuum, or my snow boots. But this ittybitty sign has survived the storm.

It reads: “It is not happy people who are thankful. It is thankful people who are happy.”

It’s one of my favorite quotes and one that I fall back on when I’m having a rotten day.

In fact, it’s been my resolution of sorts to actively practice gratitude every day. Some days all I can eek out are a few things I’m thankful for right before my head hits the pillow. On good days, I can have a moment with each member of my family to tell them specifically why I’m grateful for them. But I’m trying my hardest to make gratitude a verb in my life — something I actively do every day.

I was delighted then, to read our Mind & Body column this month: “How Be-

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ing Grateful Can Actually Improve Your Health.” Guess what? Being grateful has actual physical benefits! Like, real medical ones. It benefits your heart, your immune system, and your pain levels. It also shows tangible improvements in psychological health (anxiety, depression) and sleep quality. All this without taking a single pill or visiting a doctor. Now that’s a prescription I can handle.

You can read more about the benefits of gratitude on page 40. In the meanwhile, I want to take a moment and thank you for picking up our magazine and spending a few minutes with us. In the spirit of gratitude, we are thankful for YOU.

Lindsay Weiss

SIMPLYKCMAG.COM | 9

8998

PUBLISHER

MACH PUBLICATIONS, LLC

EDITOR

LINDSAY WEISS

MANAGING EDITOR ASHLEY PUDERBAUGH

PHOTOGRAPHY

SAMANTHA LEVI OF SAMANTHA LEVI PHOTOGRAPHY NICOLE BISSEY JEFF EVRARD OF SATURDAYS KC PHOTOGRAPHY MAGGIE GULLING

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

LINDSAY WEISS, DEBORAH EAKIN OSBORNE, LESLI LUNDQUIST, SAMANTHA LEVI, MELANIE KNOPKE, MARY EDWARDS, JULIE BURTON, BETHANEY WALLACE, BRENNAN HALLOCK, TINA KLUGMAN

ART DIRECTOR

JULIE FAERMAN, WHOO DESIGN

ADVERTISING

SUZANNE STEINER - 913.608.6305, SALES@SIMPLYKCMAG.COM

INQUIRIES

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SIMPLYkc Magazine is published monthly by Mach Publications, LLC. No portion of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, without the written permission of SIMPLYkc Magazine. All rights reserved. SIMPLYkc Magazine accepts no infringement or other responsibility for unsolicited or contributed copy, artwork, photography, or advertisements. No representation is made as to the accuracy hereof and is printed subject to omissions and errors. Opinions and statements in SIMPLYkc Magazine are contributed by authors and or advertisers and do not necessarily represent the opinions of SIMPLYkc Magazine. Photography and material in the publication as well as design may not be copied or reproduced in any form without written permission. References for copy will be made available upon written request.

All rights reserved. ©2016, Mach Publications, LLC.

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AROUND TOWN

BY TINA KLUGMAN Photos / A J S Photography

Olivia Dickerson, at left, and Ava Dickerson, top right, were the inspiration for the nonprofit Little Warrior Princesses. At bottom right, Brandon and Cassandra Dickerson pose with their twin girls.

LITTLE WARRIOR PRINCESSES: HELPING NICU FAMILIES IN NEED One out of eight babies in the U.S. is born prematurely. Being the parent of a baby (or babies) in the neonatal intensive care unit at a hospital is an extremely emotional journey. Local mom Cassandra Dickerson knows that journey all too well. Her personal experience with her own infants in the NICU inspired her to start Little Warrior Princesses, a nonprofit organization that provides support to families with infants in NICUs throughout the metro area by providing gas and food gift cards to them during their hospital stay.

Dickerson and her husband Brandon struggled with infertility for four years due to a medical condition called polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). When Dickerson became pregnant with twins, she and Brandon were excited. Although her pregnancy was high-risk

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(as are all twin pregnancies), Dickerson felt confident she would carry her babies full-term. The last thing she expected was to go into preterm labor at 26 weeks. “The doctors always said everything looked great and there was no cause for concern,” Dickerson says. “So, when I went into preterm labor, we were obviously very shocked and scared.”

Ava and Olivia Dickerson were born in 2012, weighing 15.5 ounces and 18 ounces, respectively. The baby girls spent four months in the NICU at St. Luke’s Hospital. The twins are now healthy and happy, but the experience impacted Dickerson profoundly.

During that experience, Dickerson built relationships with some of the other NICU parents who shared stories with her about their

struggles. Although the Dickersons lived close to the hospital, many families traveled long distances and had difficulty paying for gas and food. “I sympathized with them because I knew exactly what they were going through, and then they had this extra added stress,” Dickerson says. “After hearing this multiple times during that journey, I remember thinking, ‘When I get out of this situation, I’m going to find a way to help these families.’”

Dickerson started by building a team to raise money for the March of Dimes. Yet, she still wanted to find a way to support families that need immediate monetary help. Her pastor, who gave gift cards to people in need, inspired her to do something similar, but she still wasn’t sure how to execute the idea, nor did she have a name for her organization.

That came later, when she and Brandon were interviewed on an April 2013 Today Show segment along with Jessica Strom, a Kansas Cityarea photographer who offers free photo sessions to parents of NICU babies. At the end of the program, when the Today Show producer asked the couple what their NICU experience taught them about their daughters, Brandon responded with, “They’re fighters,” and Cassandra added, “They’re little warrior princesses.”

After she watched that segment, it became clear to her what she should name her organization. “Ava and Olivia are princesses, but they are also warriors because they beat the odds and they survived and fought to live,” she says. “To this day, I cannot watch that segment without crying.”

Most of the families that seek help from LWP are referred to Dickerson by word of mouth. Many times, families who have received help from LWP tell other parents of babies in the NICU. Hospitals are not allowed to give out the names of patients or their families, but some local hospitals have agreed to put out literature about LWP in the NICU waiting area.

The families that have received help from LWP are incredibly grateful for the support. The reviews on the LWP Facebook page speak for themselves. “We’ve had some families that have cried because they knew that without help, they didn’t know how they would see their babies,” Dickerson says.

Dickerson hopes LWP continues to grow. “We want to be recognized as a legitimate resource for NICU families,” she explains. “We obviously would like to be more known in the community so that we can help more families.”

The organization provides help for families as long as they are in the NICU, but families must reach out to LWP and ask for assistance, which they can receive once a month. “We’re not just helping them one time,” Dickerson explains. “We truly are committed to their whole NICU process.”

For more information on Little Warrior Princesses or to find out how to donate, visit littlewarriorprincesses.com or facebook.com/ littlewarriorprincesses.

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city, Couple is a more intimate way to share your life with your favorite person. The private app lets you share videos, photos, and voice messages, along with plenty of cute stickers and emojis. You can stay organized with the shared calendar and lists, get date-night suggestions based on your location, and even make calls within the app. Fun extras include collaborative sketching in real-time, a secret photo option that deletes photos after so many seconds, an archive of your shared moments, and the Thumbkiss, which involves you and your partner touching your phones simultaneously to make them vibrate. A bonus to the app is the Web version, which gives you access to the messaging feature.

The cons: Lots of users have recently reported that the app is signing them out

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IN FOCUS

Top row, from left: Tieg Selberg, Michael LeBlanc, Brent Church. Bottom row: Mikaeya Kalantari, Jill Jenkins, Ginelle Sakima Roberts

JENKINS & LEBLANC DENTISTRY: HELPING KIDS SMILE

BY BRENNAN HALLOCK Photos / Maggie Gulling

Many children grow up fearing visiting the dentist office, as it can be uncomfortable or traumatizing. This fear often continues into adulthood. But Jenkins & LeBlanc’s staff aim to prevent this from happening by offering a fun, comfortable culture for the children visiting their office.

“We can create a positive experience at a young age that can set the stage for a lifetime of great dental experiences,” Dr. Ginelle Sakima Roberts explains.

Jenkins & LeBlanc Dentistry for Children has been helping children with their dentistry needs in the Kansas City area for

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more than 10 years. Founded in 2005 by Jill C. Jenkins, DDS, and Michael A. LeBlanc, DDS, the practice has since expanded to five locations — all of which create a fun, safe, and educational culture for children. These include offices in Kansas City, Overland Park, Olathe, Shawnee, and Prairie Village.

Jenkins & LeBlanc places a high importance on making the dental experience fun for children. “The focus in our practice is to create a warm, friendly, and fun environment that is both inviting and comforting to children and parents to set a positive tone for lifelong dental health care,” says Dr. LeBlanc.

“In our aim to provide an enjoyable and encouraging experience, each of our locations feature kids theaters, game zones, individualized movie stations, dental goodies, prizes, and even some treats for Mom and Dad.” Toys are used for more than simply entertainment, though.

Drs. Jenkins and LeBlanc believes education is key to instilling lifelong healthy dental behaviors. Doctors use stuffed animals, such as dinosaurs and bears to demonstrate proper oral

care. They don’t stop at the kids, though. The doctors believe it is essential to keep parents educated, too. Pediatric oral care brings its own unique set of challenges, and parents often have many questions. So, they make sure parents are comfortable and can be involved in their child’s care.

“In our aim to provide an enjoyable and encouraging experience, each of our locations feature kids theaters, game zones, individualized movie stations, dental goodies, prizes, and even some treats for Mom and Dad.” — Dr. Michael A. LeBlanc Jenkins & Leblanc Dentistry creates a safe environment for the children. Doctors are specialized and regularly attend classes and events about pediatric dentistry. Waiting rooms and offices are designed with children in mind, with seats low enough that children can reach. The staff is integral to improving children’s experiences, as well. All staff members are hired based on personality and skill — ensuring they are great with kids as well as having the required skills to be experts at their positions. And the dentists maintain a relationship with Children’s Mercy Hospital to provide treatment in more challenging cases.

Not surprisingly, Jenkins & LeBlanc has a strong interest in giving back to the local community. Whether it be sponsoring a baseball team, helping children go on mission trips, donating toothbrushes to those who need them, or buying Girl Scouts cookies, the doctors are happy to help.

Dr. Jenkins and Dr. LeBlanc began Jenkins & LeBlanc Dentistry for Children more than 10 years ago as the first of its kind in the area. In those years, it has grown to be a successful group of offices with a fun culture. Most of all, though, Jenkins & LeBlanc has become a benefit to the Kansas City community by offering a fun, safe, and educational environment to children.

Visit kidsmilekc.com or email info@kidsmilekc.com to schedule an appointment for your child at any of the five locations.

Dentists Jill C. Jenkins and Michael A. LeBlanc have opened five dental offices — all of which create a fun, safe, and educational culture for kids — across the metro.

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HOME & GARDEN

BY BETHANEY WALLACE

UNIQUE WAYS TO KEEP YOUR HOUSE WARM THROUGH THE WINTER In the Midwest, it’s a yearly norm to feel the brisk temperatures all winter long. Whether you’re outdoors or sitting too close to a drafty window, chill is a daily annoyance — one that can keep you uncomfortable for months on end. That is, unless you’re willing to pay high heating bills.

If only there were a better way to stay warm.

According to some local pros, there is.

You really can keep your home toasty and energy-efficient, all with a low heating bill each month — even during the coldest of them all.

Start with your blinds, says Susan Haas of Awnings by Haas. By investing in your window treatments, you can help cancel out drafty windows by keeping the heat in.

Covering your deck, patio, or screened-in porch with their solar shades helps your space stay much warmer all season. This works by trapping heat from a fireplace or other source, and preventing it from escaping. In fact, she says one customer was able to take his outdoor living space from 28 degrees to 68 with two outdoor heaters in only a few hours. “The solar shades allow people to take advantage of their outdoor areas even when it’s cold,” Haas explains.

More advice comes from heating pro Doug Crews with Overland Park Heating and Cooling Inc. Aside from the usual precautions like checking seals and insulation, he says there are additional methods to help keep your home both warm and energy-ef-

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ficient. In fact, there are insulation updates you may not know about.

This includes checking the garage door, ducts that travel through a garage or crawl space, chimney flues, and even a backdraft damper that blocks chilly air from getting in through the dryer vent. You should look at all of these, Crews says, to ensure proper insulation is maintained within your home.

That’s just a starting point, however. Next, you also should have your furnace checked on an annual basis, and change filters according to your technician’s recommendation. He says this will ensure your furnace is working as efficiently as possible.

It’s also a good idea to ask the tech what type of filter you should be using, as some long-term versions actually prevent hot air from passing through, forcing the furnace to work overtime.

Next, Crews says to turn on your humidifier. “Any time we add humidity, it makes a home feel warmer,” he says. “It does a lot with helping the indoor environment with providing moisture, but it also helps drive down energy costs when working properly.”

You also can lower the thermostat, he says.

Or use the ceiling fan to circulate hot air that rises toward the ceiling, especially with vaulted rooms. Check the blade angle to determine which way to set the fan, as your fan should actually push the hot air up in order to circulate back into the room, he says.

Crews says your home will benefit from these tricks as well: • Cover your attic fan with a decorative piece of insulation (available at supercenters) to keep heat from rising into the attic. Attics also can be insulated to hold in heat.

• Use programmable thermostats to keep the house warm when you’re home (and awake) and cooler when you’re not.

• Make sure your storm windows are closed.

• And to stay even more energy-efficient, lower the hot water heater and switch to LED bulbs, both of which can help lower electric bills.

“Make sure you’re keeping the heat you’re already paying for,” Crews says. “You want to take advantage of all the heat the furnace has to offer.”

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Photos / Samantha Levi of Samantha Levi Photography Model / Jessi Oxley from Hoffman International Model & Talent Agency Makeup / Melissa Evans Hair / Katie Zehel for Oliver’s Hair Salon Wardrobe Stylist & Fashion Consultant / Wlaa Style Floral Arrangements / Wild Hill Flowers, jenni@wildhillflowers.com, 913.486.6178

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Dr. Jesse Lopez is now performing the NEW, FDA Approved - Non-Surgical Weight Loss Option, the ORBERA™ Gastric Balloon

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AGING WELL

BY JULIE BURTON Photos / St. Luke’s Health System

Aging Cooperatively No one likes to talk about death.

But death is as common as birth. We just don’t celebrate death the same way we celebrate birth. For many, the thought of being admitted to hospice is just a place to die.

Hospice is a philosophical place. Hospice is meant to restore dignity, either in your home, a hospital, or at a hospice house.

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The St. Luke’s Hospice House provides aggressive symptom management to patients in need of higher care that cannot be managed at home. St. Luke’s Hospice also offers in-home care. These patients are expected to have a life expectancy of less than six months to live but are able to function at home with a nurse checking in. In-home hospice prognoses are generally much longer than the patients at the hospice house.

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Jennifer Keil is a clinical systems analyst and registered nurse at the St. Luke’s Hospice House in Kansas City. She shines a light on the hospice world where so many think is dark.

A hospice nurse’s job isn’t sad. Hospice nurses don’t save lives.

“We see it to the end,” Keil explains. “Yes, it is sad. We connect with patients. But at the end of the day, it’s not about us. It’s about supporting the patient and the family.”

A hospice nurse will cry, laugh, and even sing with you if you ask them to.

“Our patients don’t want anyone to be sad for them,” Keil shares.

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“Even if the patient is unable to speak, we know they can’t rest peacefully until the family is OK too. Our job is to lift the family up. We are happy knowing we are helping the patient come to peace.”

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The family is the hospice nurse’s charge, too. When a patient is admitted to hospice, the family begins bereavement counseling the same day. “The family will only go through this experience one time with the loved one,” Keil says. “So anything we can do to help the family grieve is what we’re here for.”

St. Luke’s Hospice provides bereavement counseling up to 13 months after the patient has passed away. Counseling is provided for as many family members and friends who need it.

Hospice is not a scary place. When a family comes to hospice and says, “There’s no more hope,” hospice tries to change that thinking.

“There’s so much we can do. Yes, maybe hope was living another 20 years. You didn’t lose to cancer. You won because you found the right resources,” Keil says. “If you want to go to the lake with the family, no problem — we’ll send you off with an oxygen tank. If you want fried chicken at 3 a.m., we’re on it. Hospice is here to help you get whatever you want at the end of life. Many families wish they came to hospice sooner.

“As far as spirituality, whatever the patient wants death to look like, we make it happen,” Keil continues. “We’ve worked with a variety of religions and beliefs. Some people can’t let go until those needs are met.”

Death is not an option for any of us. But choosing the best care you can get can be an option worth talking about.

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PETS

BY BRENNAN HALLOCK

Protect Your Pet This Winter The holidays have passed and the coldest part of winter is upon us, so it is good to take some time to make sure everyone in your family is staying warm and safe. This includes your pets, as they have their own special needs during winter. We may not think about how the cold season affects our pets, but it can be as difficult for them as it is for us.

Temperatures tend to dip to their lowest points around this time

Winter also brings unique dangers to pets that spend time outside

of year, so you need to make sure your pet stays warm. Most cats

— another reason why you should keep Fido indoors during the

and dogs have fur that helps them weather the cold, but they still

season. If your pet does spend time outdoors, be sure to pay close

get chilly in the sometimes extreme Midwest temperatures. Areas

attention to the presence of antifreeze, as this is a deadly poison

of their bodies not covered in fur can easily become frost-bitten.

with a sweet taste. Salt used to melt snow also can be harmful to

Elaine Doran, founder and director of Overland Park-based animal

pets, as it irritates the pads of their feet. Wipe your pet’s feet clean

shelter Purrfect Pets recommends keeping your pet indoors during

after walking outside to prevent irritation.

winter. “Pets’ ears or paws can easily get frostbitten,” she says. “If pets are outside, though, make sure to provide shelter and straw to keep them warm.”

the obvious danger of being hit in the street, running cars can be

Your pet’s diet also tends to change during winter. Pets that spend

may crawl under or even into the engine to escape the cold. Bang on

time outdoors eat more, as it requires additional energy to stay

the hood of your car before getting in to prevent any accidents from

warm. They also exercise more than an indoor pet.

happening.

Pets that spend winter indoors will likely sleep more, conserving

Winter can be a challenging time for humans, but pets have their

energy and resulting in less need for food. Keep Fluffy active by

needs too. Pay attention to your pet’s care this winter to keep your

playing with her for at least 10 to 15 minutes every day. Interactive

pet living a long, healthy life. With a little extra care, your pet will

toys are cheap, easy to use, and can be found in any local pet store.

be comfortable and content all winter long.

Dogs will play with almost anything: tennis balls, dog ropes, or dog bones. For cats, toys such as “fishing poles” are inexpensive yet fun.

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Finally, cars present a danger to pets in more ways than one. Besides

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

BY MELANIE KNOPKE

Natural Beauty

Did you know that government regulations allow just about any ingredient to be used in the manufacturing of products that we use daily on our skin, nails, and hair?

It is ridiculous that the Food and Drug Administration (the agency that regulates cosmetics) allows companies to use chemicals known to be extremely harmful (lead, formaldehyde, and phthalates) in the products we put on our bodies and on our kids every single day.

Just recently, an article was written in The New York Times about how we are contaminating our bodies with everyday products.

According to the article, “two major medical organizations have issued independent warnings about toxic chemicals in products all around us. Unregulated substances, they say, are sometimes linked to breast and prostate cancer, genital deformities, obesity, diabetes, and infertility.”

A recent study by the David Suzuki Foundation, an environmental nonprofit, reveals that 80 percent of all beauty products have at least one of the “dirty dozen” toxic chemicals in

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them. These chemicals have been linked to cancer, infertility, hormonal disruption and developmental defects in fetuses, increased skin aging, asthma, and allergies.

THE DIRTY DOZEN LIST INCLUDES: 1. B HA (butylated hydroxyanisole) and BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) 2. C oal tar dyes: On ingredients lists, these will show up as “P-phenylenediamine” or “CI” followed by a number.

3. DEA (diethanolamine) 4. DBP (dibutyl phthalate) 5. F ormaldehyde-releasing preservatives: Look for ingredients like DMDM hydantoin, diazolidinyl urea, imidazolidinyl urea, methenamine, quaternium-15, and sodium hydroxymethylglycinate.

6. Parabens 7. Parfum (or fragrance) 8. PEG compounds 9. Petrolatum 10. Siloxanes 11. SLS (Sodium laureth sulfate) 12. Triclosan

With one in two men and one in three women in the U.S. diagnosed with cancer, it is hard not to take a closer look and really find out what we are putting onto our bodies. All-natural and organic skincare companies are popping up everywhere. The formulas have improved and the products have gotten better each year with the advances in research and technology.

Certified organic products must be composed of at least 95 percent organic products. (Keep in mind that “organic” in the name or on the label is no guarantee that the product is healthy and chemicalfree. Look for the “certified organic” stamp on the packaging.) Organic plant materials are made up of the same minerals, vitamins, hormones, essential fatty acids, amino acids, and enzymes as the human body. Because of this, our bodies recognize these materials as nutrition and readily accept them through the skin. Everything we put on our skin has the potential to be absorbed into our bodies and circulated to all of our cells; selection of skincare products is as important as the selection of the food we eat.

There are, of course, many advantages to switching to all-natural products. You will decrease your risk of the serious side effects of these toxins, such as cancer and infertility, but there are other benefits as well. You may decrease your chances of redness, irritation, and breakouts, along with severe allergic reactions. Artificial fragrances in many products often tend to cause headaches and sensitivity, while parabens can alter the function of the endocrine system in your body.

Natural products have the ability to heal internally and externally. Organic ingredients that are absorbed through the skin can increase collagen production and improve oxygen and blood flow to the skin. Externally, natural products tighten skin, diminish lines and wrinkles, repair discoloration, and protect the skin from environmental elements.

Beth Nelson of B Beauty KC is a makeup artist with more than 10 years experience in the industry. Recently she has been using Beautycounter, a fairly new all-natural product line for herself and her clients. Nelson says she is pleasantly surprised with the line. She raves about the eyeshadows’ wonderful pigment. The line also features a nude lipstick that can be layered with a clear lip shine to create the perfect nude lip. Her only critique is that you have to reapply more often.

Because the products are natural they do not have as much holding power.

A downside to going with all-natural products is the price. Most of these products will be more expensive than what you will find at drugstores. But, how do you put a price tag on the safety of your and your family’s skin?

Is it really worth the risk?

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FINANCE

SO YOU NEED AN ACCOUNTANT? WHAT TO BRING Get the most out of your accountant by going to your meeting prepared and organized with the documents that will help show a good snapshot of your tax and financial situation. Your pertinent taxrelated documents are likely to include: • W-2 from your employer(s) • 1099-MISC forms for self employment • 1099 interest and dividend forms • 1099 forms that show brokerage activity • 1098 form showing mortgage interest paid

Tax time is looming. Whether you file your own taxes or enlist the help of an accountant likely depends on your household’s tax and income situation. If you have a traditional job (i.e. you’re an employee of a bigger organization) and don’t do a lot of investing, filing taxes will be more straightforward and you probably can do them on your own with minimal headaches.

However, seeking the advice of a knowledgeable accountant can be helpful for the growing number of people whose tax situations are not as simple. This group may include those who are self-employed or are business owners, those who earn income from a variety of sources, those who do a significant amount of investing, those who qualify for several nonstandard deductions, or those who owe back-taxes or are being audited.

WHY HIRE AN ACCOUNTANT? • An accountant saves you time.

• If your tax situation is complex, an accountant will help navigate confusing tax code and give personalized advice.

• T he accountant can save you more money than it will cost you — again, particularly when your tax situation is less than straightforward.

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• The person can give advice on how to minimize the taxes you pay in the future.

FINDING THE RIGHT FIT Like many service providers, some of the best recommendations come word-ofmouth from friends and colleagues.

Before you agree to work with an accountant, also research his or her credentials, philosophy, privacy policy, fees, and ask how long it will take for your taxes to be filed. A good resource for checking on an accountant’s license, and to find out if he or she has been subject to disciplinary action, is the state board of accountancy: ksboa.org in Kansas and pr.mo.gov/accountancy.asp in Missouri.

If you’re simply looking for someone to file your taxes properly and on time so you don’t have to deal with them or worry about making mistakes, there are many tax preparers who provide that service. If your situation is more complex, it will benefit you to find an experienced certified public accountant who is licensed by state and has expertise in a specific area or tax attorney (an attorney who specializes in tax law).

• K-1 forms if you have ownership or are a beneficiary of a business or trust (those will not arrive until that entity files its own taxes) • documentation of student loan interest or tuition paid • documentation or receipts for charitable donations, education, and childcare expenses • receipts from medical expenses (if you expect they will exceed 10 percent of your adjusted gross income) • documentation of business-related expenses if you run a business from home Keep in mind that if you hand over a jumbled mess of papers, the accountant likely will have to charge you more for the extra time spent sorting it all out. So as documents arrive in the mail, corral them neatly in a folder or notebook.

FOLLOW UP AND PLAN AHEAD Make an appointment to meet with your accountant again once your taxes are filed as a follow-up and also to plan ahead and discuss any impending tax-related issues.

Finally, if you are not satisfied with the service you receive from your accountant, don’t hesitate to shop around and find someone new.

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IN FOCUS

Nurse Practioner Kelly Baker, RN, MSN, NP-C, is just one of the many professional service providers you will meet at The Spa at Briarcliff.

STOP THE CLOCK AT THE SPA AT BRIARCLIFF

BY JULIE BURTON

For five years, Mosaic Life Care has owned The Spa at Briarcliff. Mosaic believes health care is not strictly medicine, but “life care” — and that you should focus on not just your health, but your mind, body, and spirit. Mosaic is building a brand to incorporate other life-care services, and the spa is the perfect place to encounter the mind and body balance.

Photos / Nicole Bissey

No one goes through life escaping stress. A little stress keeps us human.

But too much stress can start to play a toll on our bodies and, much like our bodies, our minds need to “sit down and take a break” to keep the rest of our body functioning.

The Spa at Briarcliff combines the art of relaxing with wellbeing.

“The most common thing people don’t take care of is relaxing the mind and body,” says manager Jenny Davey. “It’s one of the most important things to do for your health.”

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You know you are in an oasis for serenity and rejuvenation as soon as you walk through the door. Every client at the spa is outfitted with a robe to start, and you can relax in the simple yet elegantly decorated lounge prior to your experience.

Plenty of relaxation therapies are available to you. With any service, you receive complimentary access to the European bath ritual room one hour before and after. The European bath ritual room features three hot tubs set at different temperatures. These allow a warm bath to relax your muscles, and a cool bath to awaken the senses.

The f loat room — just one of six in the U.S. — is one of the more unique aspects of The Spa at Briarcliff. You soak in a

pool of saltwater that is only 11 inches deep. The high salt content creates the weightless “f loat.” And the temperature is kept near your own body temperature. “Floating for an hour puts your mind in a state that’s equivalent to four hours of sleep,” Davey explains. “This room is perfect for someone who travels a lot or who works long shifts.”

The float room — just one of six in the U.S. — is one of the more unique aspects of The Spa at Briarcliff. You soak in a pool of saltwater that is only 11 inches deep.

The high salt content creates the weightless “float.”

But the most popular service here is massage therapy. The Spa at Briarcliff specializes in deep-tissue, prenatal, and aromatherapy massage, in addition to couples massage. Couples have their own room with a private hot tub and shower.

Kelly Baker, nurse practitioner, with a client.

In addition to relaxation therapies, The Spa at Briarcliff offers manis and pedis and medical aesthetics services. You can select from six fragrances to soak, scrub, and nourish your hands or feet before you receive your Farmhouse Fresh-customized manicure or pedicure. Medical aesthetics includes Botox and volume fillers, medical-grade peels and the ViPeel, and customized Skinceutical facials. Laser services also are available under the direction of the medical staff, including vein treatment, hair reduction, and IPL for hyperpigmentation and sun damage.

The Spa at Briarcliff is a popular choice for bachelorette parties or other large groups. It boasts a 300-square-foot private room on-site to host your events and friends. The square footage of the spa itself is accommodating for large groups of people, yet every room provides intimacy with closed doors. You will find The Spa at Briarcliff offers several packages, all of which offer food catered from the upscale Trezo Mare Restaurant and Lounge.

The motto at The Spa at Briarcliff is to focus on you, offering a five-star luxury encounter every time you visit, creating an experience that leaves you feeling relaxed and invigorated with a euphoria of well-being.

The Spa at Briarcliff is located at 4133 N. Mulberry Drive, in Kansas City, Missouri. Appointments are highly recommended.

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PARENTING

BY JULIE BURTON

LOOK, MOM, NO CAVITIES!

“Say cheese!”

The word “cheese” brings out a natural smile for the camera. It’s a common expression parents with a camera in hand say to kids.

But getting kids in the habit of keeping their smile clean — that can be a little trickier for a parent.

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Within the first three years of life, 20 primary teeth emerge, also called baby teeth. By our early teens, we lose all 20 baby teeth and 32 adult permanent teeth fill their place.

So what’s the point in taking care of baby teeth if they fall out anyway?

Dr. Michelle Olsen from Quivira Park Family Dentistry explains why keeping our kids’ baby teeth clean are important.

“There are several purposes for baby teeth,” Dr. Olsen says. “Like adult teeth, baby teeth help the child chew solid foods and speak. But the second purpose of baby teeth is to hold space until the adult teeth come in.”

As the adult tooth starts to grow in, it disintegrates the baby tooth’s root. The baby tooth falls out and the adult tooth moves into its place.

If a baby tooth is lost or pulled early due to decay, the adjacent baby teeth may move together into the empty space. In turn, there’s no room for the adult tooth to come in, resulting in overcrowding. Or the adult tooth may never come in at all.

Cavities left untreated in a baby tooth can be painful and the cavity also can spread to the adult tooth in the gums.

“In rare cases, the cavity can spread throughout the body,” she says. “A cavity is a bacterial infection and it’s definitely possible for that infection to enter the bloodstream.”

The American Dental Association recommends you take your child to see a dentist within the first six months of the first tooth’s appearance or by your child’s first birthday.

“The initial visit is to get the child comfortable with a dentist looking inside her

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mouth,” Dr. Olsen says. “We also explain to the parents the importance of taking care of their child’s teeth. Going to the dentist and cleaning the teeth every day should become a habit.”

You should start instilling good oral hygiene habits before your kid begins erupting teeth. Taking a soft cloth or rag across the gums can help get rid of bacteria left behind from milk.

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“Any tooth can get a cavity, and that is true for infants as well,” she notes. It’s best to avoid letting your baby suck a bottle to fall asleep. Milk left sitting on teeth overnight can cause early tooth decay.

Ideally, children should brush their teeth twice a day and begin flossing once a day as soon as two teeth touch each other. If your child is under the age of 3, he won’t need any more toothpaste than a size of a grain of rice. Fluoride-free toothpaste is ideal since he child may not master spitting out toothpaste. Once your child is over 3 years old, a pea-sized amount of toothpaste should be sufficient. If he can spit toothpaste out, moving to fluoride toothpaste will help prevent cavities.

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You should help your child brush until she is about 2 or 3 years old. Then supervision is only necessary until she masters brushing and flossing.

“Flossing is just as important as brushing, as many cavities in children are in between the teeth.” Dr. Olsen says. “Make sure your child flosses down in the gum to reach places the toothbrush can’t.”

You should use toothbrushes with soft bristles — they’re the easiest on young gums. “A small toothbrush head is the most important thing to look for,” Dr. Olsen says. “Tiny teeth need a tiny brush to get inside the crevices.” She adds that electric toothbrushes are fine as long as the brush head is small and your child can tolerate the noise.

As your kid gets older, braces may eventually adorn his teeth.

Keeping teeth clean with braces can be a challenge. Every dentist in the area works closely with orthodontists to ensure every child gets the best care while in braces.

Regular trips to the dentist for a professional cleaning are essential — from a newborn to the middle-school student in braces. And even for you. Healthy teeth-cleaning habits start by watching Mom and Dad. Every parent loves hearing, “Look, Mom, no cavities!” It may even be better than saying, “Cheese!”

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MIND & BODY

BY DEBORAH EAKIN OSBORNE

How Being Grateful Can Actually Improve Your Health

It’s February, and hearts are turning up everywhere. Not only do we celebrate Valentine’s Day, this month we also recognize National Heart Health. Everywhere you look, you’ll find information on getting and keeping a healthy heart almost as regularly as you see those not-so-subtle reminders for Valentine’s Day. Of all the tools we have for maintaining heart health, one that may not come to mind immediately (or at all) is something that each of us has access to every day. It doesn’t cost any money, and it doesn’t take much time, yet the benefits are enormous. This somewhat-of-a-miracle tool is what some refer to as an “attitude of gratitude.” Hey, wait a minute. Didn’t we celebrate Thanksgiving a few months back? Yes. Yes we did. But it turns out being grateful all year long not only contributes to a healthier heart, but to other aspects of your health as well. Here are just a few of them:

Gratitude benefits the heart.

Studies show that appreciation and positive emotions have been linked with changes in heart rate, which may be beneficial in the treatment of hypertension and in reducing the likelihood of sudden death in pa-

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tients with congestive heart failure and coronary artery disease.

Gratitude has been linked with a better immune system. WebMD reports that gratefulness is linked with optimism, which in turn is linked with better immune health.

Gratitude improves physical health. According to a study published in the medical journal Personality and Individual Differences, grateful people report fewer aches and pains and say they feel healthier than others who do not practice gratitude.

People who are grateful also are more likely to take care of their health, exercise more often, and keep regular check-ups with their doctors, which may contribute to longevity.

Gratitude improves psychological health.

Robert A. Emmons, PhD, is a leading gratitude researcher who has conducted multiple studies on the link between gratitude and well-being. His research confirms that gratitude reduces toxic emotions ranging from envy and resentment to frustration and regret, which increases happiness and reduces depression. Apparently, the more grateful a person is, the less depressed she is.

Grateful people sleep better. In the holiday classic White Christmas, Bob Wallace shares the following words of wisdom with Betty Haynes after discovering she’s having difficulty sleeping one night:

“When I’m worried and I can’t sleep I count my blessings instead of sheep And I fall asleep Counting my blessings.

“If you’re worried and you can’t sleep Just count your blessings instead of sheep And you’ll fall asleep Counting your blessings.”

Emmons agrees. “If you want to sleep more soundly, count blessings, not sheep,” Dr. Emmons advises in his book, Thanks! Taking just 15 minutes to write down what you’re thankful for before you drift off to sleep may help you sleep better and longer.

But just how does one develop an attitude of gratitude? What if you’re not the grateful sort? Does being grateful mean living in a state of constant denial, ignoring all that appears wrong in your world? Of course it doesn’t. Kansas City-based Olufemi Sharp, a licensed professional counselor and mindfulness teacher, acknowledges that having an attitude of gratitude is not as simple as it may sound and requires open-hearted awareness. She explains that being thankful and appreciative is a means of shifting attention in the moment to cultivate more happiness and well-being.

As a therapist in private practice, Sharp says she sometimes encounters clients who are treatment-resistant to practicing gratitude or mindfulness as a daily life skill to overcoming major stress and depression, and their progress is minimal. On the other hand, those clients who are tired of struggling with depression or anxiety are motivated to practice mindfulness and gratitude consistently, often undergoing a transformative healing experience.

Sharp points out that mindfulness and gratitude are learned life skills.

Practicing mindfulness and cultivating that attitude of gratitude, she says, can produce benefits such as alertness, self-confidence, increased positive emotions, happiness, and peace of mind. Sharp suggests the following ways to help you practice daily gratitude: Be present in the moment, identify and write down three positive experiences observed during the day, write gratitude letters, and make gratitude poster boards for home. “Overall,” she says, “mindfulness practice initiates an attitude of gratitude, giving one’s self a sense that all is well today and tomorrow.”

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IN FOCUS

Dr. Melissa Boerema loves her job as a pediatric dentist at Arbor Creek Dental.

DR. MELISSA BOEREMA PROVIDES QUALITY CARE TO PATIENTS

BY TINA KLUGMAN Photos / Nicole Bissey

Melissa Boerema, DDS, first knew she wanted to be a dentist in the fourth grade. She remembers writing an essay on what she wanted to become when she grew up and why, and had no trouble choosing dentistry as her future profession. Her childhood dentist, Dr. Christian Willard, was integral to that decision, and helped spark her interest in the field. She

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liked that he was always positive and proactive, and that he answered all of her questions. “For me, my childhood dentist was the tipping point of deciding what I wanted to become,” she says.

Dr. Boerema even shadowed her childhood dentist during her first summer in college. She received her undergraduate degree in biology from the University of Missouri, and later graduated from dental school at the University of Missouri– Kansas City. She went on to do a one-year general practice residency at Truman Medical Center, where she gained even more experience in advanced dental cases and sedation.

She worked at a children’s clinic in Belton, Missouri, before coming to Arbor Creek Dental in May 2015. She learned during that time that she loves working with children, which she is still able to do at Arbor Creek Dental.

She was immediately drawn to the warm, friendly demeanor of Dr. Jason Knag, owner of Arbor Creek Dental. She could tell that he truly cares for his patients. “For me that was really important,” Dr. Boerema says. “I wanted to be able to provide the best dental care that I could. I wanted to be in an office where it really is about the quality of the work you’re providing, not necessarily the quantity you’re doing.”

“A lot of parents tell me, ‘We don’t need to floss because they’re just baby teeth,’ but that’s kind of a myth.” — Dr. Melissa Boerema Dr. Boerema says regular visits to the dentist, which are recommended every six months, can help serve preventative purposes. Many people think that if their tooth doesn’t hurt, then they don’t have any cavities, but this is not necessarily always the case. “In the beginning stages of a cavity, it’s not going to hurt,” Dr. Boerema explains. “Usually it’s not anything that you’re aware of, but it’s something that we can either feel or see with our instruments, or something we can see on our X-rays.”

If the cavity is still in the outer portion of the tooth, Dr. Boerema can remineralize the area with f luoride.

really say that any time you see two teeth touching, you should be f lossing because food will get stuck there and we’ll start to see cavities in between the teeth.”

Dr. Boerema is excited to be at Arbor Creek Dental. The quality care the dentists there provide, along with the great relationships that they form with their patients, makes for a great fit for Dr. Boerema. “Not only am I providing the best quality care, but at the same time, I’m maintaining my education,” she says. “I’m learning more so that I can provide patients with up-to-date procedures so we’re not lagging behind. At the same time I’m developing friendships and relationships with the patients here so that it’s about caring about the person, not just the teeth that we’re working on.”

In her spare time, Dr. Boerema enjoys running 5Ks, playing competitive volleyball, and spending time with her husband, Jonathan, and her two fur-babies, Mollie and Mumford. You can schedule an appointment with Dr. Boerema by calling 913.390.5300. Her office is located at 15990 S. Bradley Drive in Olathe.

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month. Dr. Boerema says she recommends that children schedule their first visit for whichever comes first — turning 1, even if the baby doesn’t have any teeth yet, or cutting a first tooth. She says this is mainly for preventative reasons and also to get children used to seeing the dentist.

Getting children to brush their teeth well can be challenging, and Dr. Boerema recommends helping children with toothbrushing until the child can sign their name in cursive. The reason for this is that young children often lack the dexterity and ability to reach their entire mouth. “We want them to brush a little on their own, and then we want parents to go in there and do the clean up, which sometimes is hard,” she says.

Flossing is also important for people of all ages, and that includes babies. Dr. Boerema recommends starting to f loss babies’ teeth with f loss picks as soon as their teeth start touching.

“A lot of parents tell me, ‘We don’t need to f loss because they’re just baby teeth,’ but that’s kind of a myth,” she explains. “We

SIMPLYKCMAG.COM | 43

GOOD TASTES

BY LESLI LUNDQUIST Photo / Nicole Bissey

’t Who DoesnE LOV Comfort Food?

Day, eating cheesy dip paired with

Chicken Pot Pie IX

chips and salsa, and finding the per-

Serves 4–6

For me, comfort food is right up there with receiving flowers on Valentine’s

fect boot to go with my skinny jeans.

But it also means extending a hand when someone may need a meal after having a baby, undergoing a surgery, or simply showing someone

Ingredients 1 rotisserie chicken, cubed 1 cup sliced carrots

you care.

1 cup frozen peas

Our family received this fantastic

1/2 cup sliced celery

comfort dish (and yes, this hot meal

1/3 cup chopped onion

was indeed my most favorite!) after I

1/3 cup butter

went through a surgery that was go-

1/3 cup all-purpose flour

ing to leave me out of the kitchen for nearly eight weeks. Our family was

1/2 teaspoon salt

so appreciative and felt so loved by

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

the simple act of meal generosity for

1/4 teaspoon celery seed

all those weeks. I have since passed

1-3/4 cups chicken stock

along this meal to others, and hope

2/3 cup milk

you find comfort in doing the same for someone you love.

2 (9-inch) unbaked pie crusts

Directions Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and coat a 9-inch pie plate with nonstick spray.

In a saucepan, combine the carrots, peas, and celery. Cover the veggies with water and boil for 15 minutes. Remove the pan from heat and drain and set aside.

In the same saucepan, over medium heat, cook the onion in butter until it is soft and translucent. Stir in the flour, salt, pepper, and celery seed. Slowly stir in chicken stock and milk. Simmer the broth over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until thick.

Remove the pan from heat and set aside.

Put 1 prepared pie crust in the plate. Spoon the cubed chicken evenly into the bottom, then spoon the carrot, pea, and celery medley on top of the chicken. Pour the hot broth mixture over the filling. Cover with remaining crust. Seal edges and make several small slits in the top to allow steam to escape*.

Bake the pie for 30 to 35 minutes until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Cool for 10 minutes before serving. *You also can make four miniature pies. Roll out 1 crust to a 13-inch round. Cut it into quarters, fitting each quarter into a ramekin or individual casserole dish. Divide the chicken and filling among the pies and top with broth mixture. Roll out the remaining crust, and cut out four top crusts. Seal the edges and make slits. Bake approximately 30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.

Meet Lesli Lundquist: A passion for cooking? Nope, not really! However, when I was diagnosed with food allergies nearly five years ago, my eyes were opened to all of the wonderful dishes that can be created day to day by simply following a recipe. I have been told that I am a “cook from the pantry” type of food guru. I love to keep my pantry stocked and to cook with the seasons, give my tastes buds a challenge, and of course feed my family delicious, home-cooked meals.

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BY MARY EDWARDS

OUR WORLD

Sustainable Wines:

IS IT WORTH IT?

The world of wine is a complicated one. It takes some experts many years to learn how to distinguish the Intricate flavor palettes and mouth feels. This is only made more complicated by the recent development of sustainable wines.

Sustainable wines cover the entire gamut of wines. Some wineries go through strict government criteria to be certified organic — meaning no pesticides, no artificial yeasts, and no sulfites. The issue with that, however, is that sulfites help sustain wine.

To make matters more confusing, there are practicing organic wineries that — although they consider themselves organic — may add a sulfite to the wine to stabilize it.

Then there’s the ever-interesting, ever-fascinating biodynamic wines.

Biodynamic wines are an entire genre of their own. These wineries

must follow stringent guidelines on how to grow and harvest grapes including, but not limited to, the use of cow manure and medicinal plants.

Another not so recent addition to the world of sustainable wines is pétillant-naturel, also known as pétnat, meaning “naturally sparkling.”

This is made without the addition of secondary yeasts or sugars, as champagne includes. It’s often cloudy in appearance, and because of natural sugars and yeasts used in it, it can often taste strange, yet delicious.

Drinking organic wine is definitely a personal choice, but giving pét-nat or biodynamic wines a try is a wonderful way to continue expanding your wine palette.

SIMPLYKCMAG.COM | 45

TRENDS

BY MELANIE KNOPKE

STYLISH LOVE Valentine’s Day is a tough holiday! Do you go with the standard bouquet of flowers and chocolates? Or do you get something she wouldn’t pick for herself?

I believe Valentine’s Day is all about surprising the one you love with something special. If you are looking to go with something less conventional, here are some great ideas to sweeten her holiday.

C.

A.

D.

B.

E.

Giving something personalized is always appreciated; especially when it comes to jewelry! The Roberto Coin Tiny Treasures (A) initials are gorgeous and can be made in white or yellow gold.

Use her initial or maybe your kid’s to create a piece for her she will never forget. Available at Tivol (tivol.com).

For the boho chic girl, gift her with a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry (B) by local designer Julie Zancanelli. She uses semiprecious stones and unique beads to create her stunning pieces.

Available at Alysa Rene Boutique (alysarene.com).

Who wouldn’t love the gift of better sleep and fewer wrinkles?

For centuries, Chinese women have known that sleeping on a silk charmeuse pillowcase can help prevent facial lines, wrinkles, and

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| SIMPLYKCMAG.COM

the dreaded “bedhead.” This exquisite silk pillowcase (C) offers a range of benefits and is available in many colors. Available at Soft Surroundings (softsurroundings.com).

Lingerie can be intimidating, but when you find a gorgeous, perfect-fitting bra and panties you really can’t go wrong. She will fall in love with this romantic bra and panty set (D) by Simone Perele. Available at Claire de Lune (clairdelunekc.com).

There is nothing more thoughtful than the gift of art. Show her your love with a unique piece such as this mixed-media hearts piece (E) by Julie Cates. Each piece is an original and is available in three sizes. Find it at Stuff (pursuegoodstuff.com).

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7

7 ALTERNATIVE HOLIDAYS

to Valentine’s Day

48

| SIMPLYKCMAG.COM

1

Friendship Day

2

Singles Awareness Day

3

International Quirkyalone Day

4

International Book Giving Day

5

National Donor Day

6

Random Acts of Kindness Week

7

National Gumdrop Day

In Finland, Feb. 14 is considered Ystävänpäivä, or “Friendship Day” — a celebration of both pals and lovers. Let your besties know how much they mean to you by going old-school and handing out friendship bracelets.

If you’re single and feeling left out on Valentine’s Day, consider celebrating Singles Awareness Day, or SAD, instead. On Feb. 14 or 15 (or both), you can give a toast to yourself and all the single ladies (and men) in your life.

Along the same lines as Singles Awareness Day is International Quirkyalone Day, which falls on Feb. 14. “Create a great day for yourself, whatever that means to you,” according to the official website. Throw a dinner party, buy yourself cute new undies, rearrange your furniture, explore a new part of town, or host a casual get-together.

Every Feb. 14, International Book Giving Day hopes to boost kids’ access to and enthusiasm for books. You can participate by giving a book to a friend or family member; leaving a book for kids in a waiting room; or donating a book to a library, hospital, shelter, or international organization. Then spread the word by sharing a photo on Instagram (#giveabook).

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services ask you to donate the gift of life on Feb. 14. Today, more than 120,000 patients are on the waiting list to receive a lifesaving organ transplant. You can register to be a donor at organdonor.gov.

The week that celebrates paying it forward kicks off on Valentine’s Day this year. Step out of your comfort zone and attempt a random act of kindness each day. At a loss of ideas? You could: Be a designated driver, leave change in the vending machine, smile at strangers, make blankets for the homeless, or let the other car merge. Visit randomactsofkindness.org for even more suggestions.

We are just as surprised as you are that the sugary, gelatin-based candy gets its own day of celebration. Still, on Feb. 15, take a moment to treat yourself to the popular candy, which has been around for at least 200 years!

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HAPPENINGS FEB 1 – MAR 17 31st Annual “Go for The Green” Food Drive Area Price Choppers FEB 3, 10, 17, 24 BYOB Wine Wednesdays Grapes and Paints, 7175 W 95th St, OPKS 913-314-2640 / grapesandpaints.com 6:30 pm FEB 3–20 Storyworks The Living Room, 1818 McGee St, KCMO 816.533.5857 / thelivingroomkc.com FEB 5 Jazz Storytelling American Jazz Museum, 1616 E 18th St, KCMO 816.474.6262 / americanjazzmuseum.org 10–11 am FEB 5–7 Monster Jam Sprint Center, 1407 Grand Blvd, KCMO 816.949.7000 / sprintcenter.com FEB 6 Mardi Gras 5K, Scavenger Crawl and the Bar Crawl The Kansas City Power & Light District presents mardigraskc.com 10 am FEB 6 12th Annual Idiots’ Open Golf Tourney Smiley’s Golf Complex, 10195 Monticello Terr, Lenexa, KS 816.363.2600 FEB 6 Valentines Banquet and Dance First Christian Church, 148 N. Nettleton, Bonner Springs, KS 913.441.3876 / firstccks.org 6–9 pm FEB 6 4th Annual Mardi Gras Masquerade Party The Gallery Event Space and The Kill Devil Club, 61 E 14th St, KCMO mardigraskc16.eventbrite.com 8–11 pm FEB 7 Kiss & Tail?

Kansas City Zoo, 6800 Zoo Dr, KCMO 816.513.5800 / kansascityzoo.org 5:30–8:30 pm FEB 9 Folly Kids Series: Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad Folly Theater, 300 W 12th St, KCMO 816.474.4444 / follytheater.org 10 am & 11:30 am FEB 9 – MAR 19 Junie B. Jones: The Musical Union Station, Kansas City, 30 W Pershing, KCMO FEB 11, 12, 13, 14 BYOB Valentine’s Couple’s Nights

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Grapes and Paints, 7175 W 95th St, OPKS 913-314-2640 / grapesandpaints.com FEB 11 – MAY 20 Martin City Melodrama Jr.: Harriet Hopperdoodle’s Hair-Brained History Test!

Musical Theater Heritage, Crown Center Shops, 816.804.2602 / martincitymelodrama.org FEB 12–14 KC Remodel + Garden Show The American Royal Center, 1701 American Royal Court, KCMO 816.931.4686 / kcremodelandgarden.com 10 am–9 pm Friday and Saturday, 10 am–6 pm Sunday FEB 12 Cyprus Avenue Live: SteelDrivers Folly Theater, 300 W 12th St, KCMO 816.474.4444 / follytheater.org 8 pm FEB 12–14 World of Wheels 2016 Kansas City Convention Center, 301 W 13th St, KCMO autorama.com/attend/kansascity 3–10 pm Friday, 10 am–10 pm Saturday, 10 am–6 pm Sunday FEB 13 Cupid’s Undie Run McFadden’s in Power and Light, 1330 Grand Blvd, KCMO cupidusndierun.com Noon: party starts, 2 pm: run starts FEB 13 It’s a Bon Ton Valentine’s Love Affair Show Kanza Hall, 7300 W 119th St, OPKS 3 pm doors, 4–6 pm show FEB 15 Presidential Briefs The Buffalo Room, 817 Westport Rd, KCMO 7 pm

FEB 25 – MAR 6 MET’s 11th Season: The Skin of Our Teeth Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre, 3614 Main, KCMO 816.569.3226 / metkc.org FEB 25 – MAR 18 Tomás and the Library Lady The Coterie Theatre, Crown Center, 2450 Grand Blvd, KCMO 816.474.6552 / thecoterie.org FEB 26 KC Critical Mass Bicycle Ride Sunfresh Market, 4001 Mill St, KCMO 6:30 pm meeting, 7 pm ride at 7pm kccriticalmass.com FEB 26 Kansas City Jazz Orchestra: British Invasion!

Kauffman Center, 1601 Broadway, KCMO 816.994.7222 / kauffmancenter.org FEB 26 – MAR 13 Legally Blonde: The Musical The Barn Players Theatre, 6219 Martway, Mission, KS 913.432.9100 / thebarnplayers.org FEB 26 – MAR 27 Roof of the World KC Repertory Theatre, Copaken Stage, 13th St and Walnut, KCMO kcrep.org FEB 27 26th Annual Gaelic Mass Redemptorist Catholic Church, 3333 Broadway, KCMO kcirishparade.com FEB 27 2016 KC Brew Fest Union Station, 30 W Pershing Rd, KCMO kansascitybrewfest.com Noon

FEB 19 Friends of Chamber Music: Richard Goode, Pianist Folly Theater, 300 W 12th St, KCMO 816.474.4444 / follytheater.org 8 pm

FEB 27 12th Annual Feltz Family Midwinter Blues Fundraiser Ball Conference Center, 21350 W 153rd St, Olathe, KS 913.383.9100 / kvc.org 5–9 pm

FEB 20 The Harriman-Jewell Series: Ye-Eun Choi, Violinist in Recital Folly Theater, 300 W 12th St, KCMO 816.474.4444 / follytheater.org 7 pm

FEB 27 2016 Kansas City Garden Symposium Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, 4525 Oak St, Kansas City, MO gardensymposium.org 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m.

FEB 20 5th Annual Sake With Friends Nara, 1617 Main St, KCMO 816.756.0780 / childrenstlc.org 8 pm–midnight

FEB 27 Blizzard Music Festival Crossroads KC at Grinders, 417 E 18th St, KCMO crossroadskc.com

FEB 20–21 PBR: Professional Bull Riders Sprint Center, 1407 Grand Blvd, KCMO 816.949.7000 / sprintcenter.com 7 pm Saturday, 2 pm Sunday

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