Sasee Magazine - August 2019

August 2019

Beautiful young people are accidents of nature, but beautiful old people are works of art.

-Eleanor Roosevelt-

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Letter from the Editor I’ve talked to a lot of women this month about aging. Most of my friends, like me, are passing milestone birthdays. But, for the most part, I believe we’re getting better, and I know most of us are happier than we were 20 years ago. While our skin isn’t as smooth as it once was and our hair color may be enhanced, we are much more at peace with ourselves and much less easily rattled by life’s ups and downs. Throughout my life, I’ve found role models in women I admire, watching the way they move through life, creating success without losing the grace that is so much a part of being a woman.

And hopefully, I’ve taken some of that grace for my own. One of those women is my boss lady, the owner of Strand Media Group, Delores Blount. For the past 13 years, actually nearly 14, I’ve watched her handle her business with sharp acumen, but she does it without being harsh or overbearing. And personally, I’ve seen her go through some very serious life events that would have caused me to throw a huge pity party. But even these events didn’t rattle Delores for too long. She puts on her always-fashionable-clothes, adds lipstick and a smile, and keeps doing what she loves to do every day. To me, she epitomizes this month’s theme of “Decades of Grace.” If you know Delores, you know exactly what I’m saying. So thank you Delores, for leading the way, for showing us how to age gracefully and beautifully.

Cover Artist

Distant Thoughts, by Jonathan Green Jonathan Green is best known for his vibrant depictions of Gullah culture, or the descendants of enslaved Africans who settled between northern Florida and North Carolina in the 19th century. Green utilizes both the aesthetics of his heritage and the abstraction of the human figure as seen in the work of artists such as Pablo Picasso, Jacob Lawrence and Diego Rivera, creating an almost mythological narrative from his everyday observations.

Born in Gardens Corner, South Carolina, Green served in the U.S. Air Force before receiving his BFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. His works are in the collections of the Naples Museum of Art in Florida, the Afro-American Museum of Philadelphia, the Norton Museum of Art in West Palm Beach, and the Gibbes Museum of Art in Charleston, among others. The artist currently lives in Charleston, South Carolina.

To see more of his work, visit www.jonathangreenstudios.com.

August 2019

Volume 18, Issue 8

8 12 14 16 18 20 22

A Rude Awakening

by Jeffery Cohen

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Read It! Nicole Says…Read The Last Resort by Marissa Stapley A Stranger on the Beach by Michele Campbell

28 30 34 36

Reflections on Forty

by Melissa Face

38 40

Age Related

by Rose Ann Sinay The One Conversation You Need to Have Now

by Barbara Elkins, R.N. Sparkles

by Liz Pardue-Schultz Thoughts on Aging

by Dr. Kimberley Goh A Cup of Wine and Thou

by Susan Traugh Reflections of an Artist: Jonathan Green

by Leslie Moore

Mary Lou Gies: Creating a Life of Grace

by Leslie Moore Remembering Sasee Superstar Connie Barnard Beauty Secrets of My Grandmother

by Janet Combs Nicole Says...Read These Books to Your Kids Margaret, Pirate Queen

by Marsha S. Tennant with Dub Sutton Margaret and the Diamond Key Mystery

by Marsha S. Tennant with Lyric Bailey Sasee June Calendar

Publisher Delores Blount Sales & Marketing Director Susan Bryant Editor Leslie Moore Account Executives Stacy Danosky Erica Schneider Gay Stackhouse Art Director Patrick Sullivan Photographer & Graphic Artist Kelly Clemmons Web Developer Scott Konradt Accounting Gail Knowles Executive Publishers Jim Creel Bill Hennecy Suzette Rogers PO Box 1389, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576 fax 843-626-6452 • phone 843-626-8911 www.sasee.com • info@sasee.com Sasee is published monthly and distributed free along the Grand Strand. Letters to the editor are welcome, but could be edited for length. Submissions of articles and art are welcome. Visit our website for details on submission.

Sasee is a Strand Media Group, Inc. publication.

Copyright © 2019. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any material, in part or in whole, prepared by Strand Media Group, Inc. and appearing within this publication is strictly prohibited. Title “Sasee” is registered with the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office.

“Decades of Grace”

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A Rude Awakening

by Jeffery Cohen

S

“

top Snoring!” These were the words I was awakened to one weekend by my little granddaughter. As I pried my sleepy eyes open, there she stood: The twisted up face of a three-year-old staring at me, her tone accusing me of some unforgivable offense. Half conscious, I’d tried to decipher the demand that was being made of me even though I hadn’t the foggiest notion what she was talking about. After all, I had been sound asleep until she woke me up. “Grandpa, stop snoring,” she insisted in an even louder voice, stamping her foot. “Grandpa, you’re scaring me!”

“Sometimes.”

“Was I snoring?” I asked my wife, who didn’t hear the question because she had buried her head between two pillows to muffle the sound. Giving her a gentle shake, she peaked out like a shy turtle. “Was I snoring?” I asked again.

He cut me off before I could finish. “Well, the only real way to ascertain whether you do have a problem is to do a sleep study. You’ll have to spend the night in the sleep center at the hospital. We’ll monitor your sleep habits and make a determination.”

“Are you kidding?” she answered. “The bed was vibrating from the sound. The house was shaking.”

A week later I checked into the hospital at 8pm, my favorite pillow and blanket in hand – anything that was going to help me get to sleep in a strange place. I slipped into my pjs, flopped onto the queen sized bed and turned on the TV to the football game, not feeling a bit tired. At about eleven, just when my team was starting to score, a technician came in and informed me it was beddy-bye time.

“Bria says I’m scaring her,” I said, pointing to my granddaughter who was near tears.

“Is it any wonder? You sound like some kind of roaring lion,” my wife explained.

“I scare her?”

“She’s not the only one. You scare me. You actually stop breathing! I’ve watched you. You take a breath and then you stop breathing for a few second. Just when it gets really frightening, and I’m ready to call 911, you start breathing again with that roar of a snore. You should really get that checked. You have to go to a sleep doctor.”

“A sleep what?” I asked. Up until now, I had heard of a lot of different kinds of specialists – eyes, ears, nose and throat, cardiologists, internists, podiatrists, dermatologists...but a sleep doctor? I thought my wife was making it all up but she insisted there was such a thing and, of course, she was right, so I made an appointment.

The doctor began by asking me all kinds of sleepy questions. “What time do you go to bed?” he asked.

“One or two,” I answered.

“Oh, you really should go to bed earlier. Do you eat before bedtime?”

“You really shouldn’t do that,” he scolded.

“Do you snore?” he asked.

“I don’t know. I’m asleep. My wife says I do” “Do you stop breathing when you’re sleeping?” he asked.

“I don’t know. Like I said, I’m asleep, but my wife says...”

He spent the next half hour pasting electrode patches on every spot of bare skin he could find, strapping straps and buckling belts here, there and everywhere. He hooked up some sort of gizmo to my chest which he plugged into a series of cables. By the time he was finished I was covered in gadgets and wound up in a web of multicolored wires. Then he eased some sort of gear over my head, tightened the straps and told me to just relax. Was he kidding? I began to feel a little nervous sweat.

The way I saw it, one power surge and I’d fry like a convicted prisoner in “Old Sparky,” the electric chair! I did my best to crawl into bed as the technician warned me not to move around too much for fear that the equipment might detach. I tried to lay still, tangled in a mass of electronics and sensors.

“Just one thing. What do I do if I have to go to the bathroom?” I asked.

“No problem.” He smiled. “I’ll be monitoring you all night. Just bang on the headboard if you need to use the restroom and I’ll come in.” He whispered, “Goodnight. See you in the morning.” No such luck. Twenty minutes later I banged on the headboard. As promised, my tech answered the call and unattached me from a good part of the equipment so that I could answer the call of nature. Then he reattached me.

“He spent the next half hour pasting electrode patches on every spot of bare skin he could find, strapping straps and buckling belts here, there and everywhere.”

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Sasee.com

August 2019

I lay there in that strange bed, buried in a mountain of technology, tangled like a spider’s prey in a web of wires. On top of being in strange surroundings and a foreign bed, I was being put to bed two hours earlier than normal, not knowing the outcome of my football game. I was pretty certain there was no way I was ever going to fall asleep, even if I was clutching my favorite blankey and pillow. I lay there in the dark for almost two hours before I finally lost consciousness, only to wake up half an hour later to use that bathroom. Maybe it was just nerves, but I woke up and banged on that headboard so many times that night, it started to sound like the conga section of a Latin band. In the end, I got so little sleep, I wondered if there would be enough data to calculate anything. It was one of the most uncomfortable nights I’d ever spent, and I was glad when it was finally over. Early in the morning, as I was being disconnected, the technician reassured me that I did suffer from a very slight case of sleep apnea. He told me that if I lost a little weight the problem would probably resolve itself. That was quite a relief...until I had the follow-up appointment with the sleep doctor.

Living Art by

Dr. Cozart

There he sat shaking his head as he looked at the results of the study.

“A very grave case of sleep apnea,” he sighed. “Do you know, you stop breathing eighty-five times an hour? This is not good. What we need to do now is to have you do a second sleep study. This time we’ll fit you with a c-pap machine which will force air into your lungs and make sure you keep breathing at all times. Then we’ll check the results.” I couldn’t believe I had to do the same thing all over again, but I did.

Some weeks after the study, I was given a c-pap machine. I hooked up the contraption at home, tightened the straps around my head and chin, slipping the plastic mask over half of my face. A long, flexible hose flipped and flopped with every move, anchoring me to the small box that pumped air. I caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror. I looked like Hannibal Lecter from Silence of the Lambs, but I figured everyone would finally get a good night’s sleep.

Early the next morning I was awakened by my granddaughter’s protests.

As I pried my sleepy eyes open, there she was, staring at me, with all my straps, buckles, plastic mask, hose hanging like some giant tentacle. A look of horror flashed across my granddaughter’s face. “Grandpa, you’re scaring me!”

Jeffery Cohen

Freelance writer and newspaper columnist, Jeffery Cohen, has written for Sasee, Lifetime and Read, Learn, Write. He’s won awards in Women-On-Writing Contest, Vocabula’s Well Written Contest, National League of American Pen Women’s’ Keats Competition, Southern California Genealogy Competition, and Writer’s Weekly writing contest.

Actual Patient, Marla, age 52

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She had been creating sleep appliances and mouth guards when she found her passion in the field of sleep apnea. Ashley went on to become one of the first Certified Sleep Apnea Coordinators in the country, allowing her to aid in the delivery and adjustment of apnea appliances. Currently, Ashley is studying to become a registered sleep study technician to help bridge the gap between medical and dental offices. Having led 2 sleep practices in the Richmond Virginia area prior to relocating to the Grand Strand, Ashley was the perfect addition to the Advanced Sleep and Breathing team. She is excited to make South Carolina her permanent home and to continue helping apnea patients. At work, Ashley loves to share her knowledge about the growing field of sleep medicine. In her free time, Ashley enjoys spending time at the beach with her husband Josh, and dogs Zeeke and Meach.

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Age Related

by Rose Ann Sinay

M

y sister and I tried to slip by the kitchen door unnoticed while our aunts and our mother sat at the kitchen table talking about the extra flab around their middles, pain in their knees and back, diarrhea, constipation and every other thing that a teenager would find totally gross. My sister and I giggled and rolled our eyes as we tiptoed out of the house. “I will never be like that,” I said, laughing. “If I even say the word constipation, shoot me.” I will never be that old, I thought with the optimism of youth.

Contrary to my wishes, I “matured” just like everyone else. I finished school, got a job, got married, had babies, and changed diapers that would have made the teenager me gag just looking at the diaper box. Responsibility was my middle name.

Years passed too quickly, one rolling into the next. Time was measured by my children’s ever-changing heights (recorded on a pole in the basement), by my son’s advancing sports teams and my daughter’s gymnastic levels. The span between elementary school and high school evaporated, almost without notice. And then, after all the frantic years of rushing from work to games and activities, time stood still for my husband and me as our kids began transporting themselves.

Graduations and an empty nest made substituting chocolate bars for fresh spinach seem positively therapeutic. A move south to warm weather was sure to be the panacea for feeling left behind. It was time for us. Sun, sand and travel, it sounded like a great new beginning.

When Oprah Winfrey entered her fifties, she announced to her audience, she was grateful to be older and wiser and was going to “rock it out.” She made turning half a century sound exciting.

I liked her positive attitude. And, I would have agreed had there not been the pervasive medical discussions in our new home in a

gated community of retirees. Knee/hip replacements, carpal tunnel surgery, diverticulitis, plastic surgery, dry eye, torn rotator cuffs, and of course, constipation – I realized that Oprah’s world and mine were light years apart.

Suddenly, it appeared that deteriorating joints were contagious.

The community shared doctors, experiences and walkers as we recovered from each ordeal. I couldn’t resist the compulsion to compare operations with my friends.

“Your scar looks great,” I lied when a fellow knee replacement recipient rolled up her sweat pants to reveal a thick wormlike scar.

I quickly pulled up the hem of my Capri pants to show off a thin white straight line – it was the little things.

Somewhere along the line, my favorite television shows changed from the Food Network and Rehab Addict to Dr. Oz and Judge Judy. I began watching the exercise shows instead of actually doing it, myself. I remembered the kitchen table incident and signed myself up for an “Aging Gracefully” lecture. I shamed a few of my friends into going with me. We all needed an attitude adjustment, I insisted. Plus, lunch was included.

I dressed carefully the day of the event. I resisted the elastic waistband pants that I swore I’d never wear, and yet, had become my everyday uniform. Instead, I chose a sundress that had hung in my closet for two years, tags still attached. I held my breath three times while tugging the side zipper before I unearthed the amourlike body-shaper from the back of a dresser drawer. The cover-up sweater was inevitable.

I pulled out a pair of high heels purchased before my knee replacements. I’d never had the opportunity to wear them. A few steps in the shoes were all I needed to convince me that flats were back in style.

“I pulled out a pair of high heels purchased before my knee replacements. I’d never had the opportunity to wear them. A few steps in the shoes were all I needed to convince me that flats were back in style.”

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Sasee.com

August 2019

My friends and I arrived at the hotel sponsoring the lecture with at least seventy-five other women about our age. I took note of all the cover-up sweaters and breathed a sigh of relief – at least I wasn’t off the grid.

When we were seated and had devoured our choice of grilled chicken or fish with a fresh organic salad, our speaker appeared on stage. She was tall and slim. Her crisp white blouse was tucked into a black pencil skirt and belted with a vibrant red sash. Her hair was an elegant white wave that framed her face with her almost perfect skin (plastic surgery, I wondered?).

Our lecturer was lovely and charming. She moved with the grace of a thirty year old. Her advice was exercise, meditation, food choice and self-love – things that get pushed to the side as you take care of others. I already knew these things; so did most of the women in the room. We would take away a few suggestions to change some bad habits. But, as I talked to the women at our linen covered table we had one thing in common: we missed our families. Vacations and pampering were wonderful, but it didn’t fill our void. It was simple, really. We needed to be needed… and we needed to exercise.

My husband and I now live an hour (give or take) from our children and grandchildren – just far enough to keep from stepping on toes, yet close enough to be in their lives. The void is beginning to fill up again. I still eat chocolate and I share (a tiny bit) with my granddaughters when their mothers aren’t looking.

I talk to my sister weekly, and we’re close enough to visit regularly.

We talk about our lives, our weight, and our aches and pains. It feels good to share and not be judged. When we complain too much, I tell her we’re just constipated.

Rose Ann Sinay

is a freelance writer newly relocated to Connecticut. She continues to write about moments worth remembering , graciously provided by family and friends.

V. Lee Moore • Sarah A. Johnson • Elizabeth J. Saraniti Angela D. Harrison • Nancy M. Zovnic 1271 Glenns Bay Road, Surfside Beach, SC 29575 (843) 650-9757 • GrandStrandLawyers.com

13

The One Conversation You Need to Have Now

by Barbara Elkins, R.N.

resources online that will simplify this process. Then, consider a health care power of attorney and a financial power of attorney.

Both of these documents must be done by your lawyer, and let you choose who will make decisions about your health and your money when you cannot speak for yourself.

As a hospice nurse, I see patients at the end of their lives. Sadly, many people never talk about their final wishes until it becomes an emergency. I had a patient with a loving, committed significant other, and she was adamant that he be allowed to make health care decisions for her when she was no longer able to do so. However, because she didn’t have a health care power of attorney, and they were not legally married, these decisions were made by other family members who may not have had her best interests at heart. If you do not have a living will and/or health care power of attorney, decisions will default to the next of kin – and if there are none, you could become a ward of the state, giving decision-making power to someone who doesn’t even know you.

It’s also important to let your loved ones know your wishes regarding final arrangements. If possible, make the arrangements. I’ve watched this for over 30 years and am very familiar with both sides. The grief process is always horrible and painful, but it is less traumatic for those whose loved ones have already made the hard decisions.

When you talk about what you want, you are in control of your health right up to the final stages of life. I talk about my wishes regularly – we all need to encourage this conversation.

I

t’s hard to talk about mortality. No one wants to plan for the unthinkable, but it is so important to talk about advanced directives.

Tell your loved ones now what you want in the event you become gravely ill. I have told my mother exactly what I want – and even though she doesn’t want to talk about it, I know my wishes will be honored.

As an R.N. Case Manager with PruittHealth Hospice, I guide people through the process of making the decisions that will ensure their final wishes are honored. Making decisions now, while you are healthy, will save your family and loved ones from a lot of emotional trauma in the event of an accident or sudden health event, such as a stroke or heart attack.

One of the easiest ways to start is by executing a living will; there are

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Barbara Elkins, R.N., Case Manager with PriuttHealth Hospice, has worked in health care for 31 years, most of those in long term and end of life care for our elder population. When she’s not working, Barbara is relaxing in her home in Myrtle Beach with her beloved dachshund, reading a good book or going to the ocean to refresh her soul in nature.

Contact PruittHealth Hospice by calling 843-662-8633 or visit www.pruitthealth.com to learn more.

For more information about how to start the conversation about advanced directives, visit the U.S. National Library of Medicine at medlineplus.gov, or the National Institute on Aging at nia.nih.gov.

Sasee.com

August 2019

It’s the Moments Together That Change Us Forever. end of life decisions, you need to focus on what matters most.

PruittHealth Hospice is committed to caring. We ensure your loved one experiences a smooth transition from the hospital to home hospice care

So that you can focus on more moments together.

And be changed forever.

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6/14/19 10:33 AM

Sparkles

by Liz Pardue-Schultz

I

started to sparkle when I was 34 years old.

I mean that literally. I was standing at the sink, brushing my teeth and, when I lifted my head back up after rinsing, my hair sparkled back at me. I gasped. I wobbled my head back and forth to watch the light dance through the little silver wisps that had started to peek through my fading dye job. I was entranced.

As a child of the electric ‘80s, I’ve always been enthralled with rainbows, magic and glitter (ohhhhmygod so much glitter), and now, suddenly, I was sparkling. All by myself. I giggled aloud. I felt like a magical elder woman of the forest whose garden of herbal teas can cure any of humanity’s woes.

For the next 15 minutes, I stared in unabashed wonder, slowly bobbing my head around and watching The Sparkle dance through my tresses. After having my fill of channeling Narcissus, I tore myself away from the mirror, got dressed and left the house to face the day.

That’s when I made the horrible mistake of entertaining all the dumb “Voices” of social conditioning and inner-doubt I’ve often fallen prey to.

“You’re only in your 30s; do you really want to start going grey right now?!” The Voices shrieked.

“Listen,” they reasoned. “You’ve got another solid 10 years before it’s socially acceptable to start showing off salt-and-pepper hair.

People are going to think you don’t take care of yourself. You’ve got to look at least a little polished if you want respect.”

I sighed. The Voices were making sane, rational points. I let them continue, “Sure, grey hair on young women is a trend right now, but it’s an all-or-nothing thing. You can’t be au naturale and expect to

look like anything other than a young woman who has let herself go.”

And so, I pretended that magic moment in my bathroom never happened, and I signed up for a home-dye subscription kit to blot out The Sparkle. The auburn shade that arrived in my mailbox was deeply, sincerely gorgeous. Within hours of applying it, I began getting compliments and, honestly, it was the most I had ever felt like one of those gals in Pantene commercials. My hair looked shiny and smooth and healthy and just fan-flippin’-tastic.

But it didn’t sparkle.

Every six weeks, The Sparkle would peek out of my crown again to visit. I’d wobble my head in the mirror and dance with her a little. After I had a total hysterectomy, she started coming in more brilliantly – sprouting in bright white bursts instead of just silvery wisps. I couldn’t pretend I didn’t look forward to her visits every other month, when we’d catch up and I’d get to see how much more dazzling she’d become while in hiding.

Even still, despite my wonder, I resigned myself to strapping on those rubber gloves every other month and painting ruddy brown glop over my roots.

The Voices attempted to comfort me with socially-acceptable reason, “You’ll have plenty of time for grey hair later. Enjoy being young now!”

I pretended I wasn’t sad about censoring my grays, but I caught myself gazing longingly at other women with any arrangement of desaturated hair. I interrupted a silver-haired receptionist to tell her “Your hair is just resplendent.” She blushed and smiled while touching her long mane and, in the moment she paused to decide what to say, I blurted, “I hope mine looks that amazing when I get My Sparkles.”

“And so, I pretended that magic moment in my bathroom never happened, and I signed up for a home-dye subscription kit to blot out The Sparkle.”

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Sasee.com

August 2019

I sounded more than a little insane. Neither of us seemed to mind.

This went on for a couple years until one morning when, again, I looked up from the sink and my eye caught another tiny, glistening dazzle right in the middle of my face. Dropping my towel, I leaned in so close my nose was almost touching the mirror. There, at the front of my eyebrows, was a small crop of bright white hairs, standing long, proud and defiant, in stark contrast to the rest of my dark brown hair.

These four solid white hairs had appeared overnight and, while I could’ve snatched them out with tweezers, I couldn’t help but think how cool they looked. They were so unique; I’ve never seen anyone with a platinum streak in her eyebrow. I looked like some sort of super heroine beginning to transition into her final form.

The Sparkle wasn’t giving up without a fight.

I smiled back at her.

“Okay, girl. You win,” I may’ve actually said aloud.

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I cancelled my hair dye subscription within the hour. It will take awhile for The Sparkle to fully emerge through my long, thick hair, but I’m excited about watching her transform me in the next few years as I approach 40 years old.

Perhaps, when she has completely staked her claim through my mane, I’ll throw her a party. I don’t know if I’ll celebrate under the light of a silvery full moon or a disco ball, but I can guarantee, whatever I decide, the theme will be Sparkles.

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Liz Pardue-Schultz

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Her words have been published in Huff Post, XOJane, Time.com, and a ridiculous number of Letters to the Editor columns.

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17

Thoughts on Aging W

by Dr. Kimberley Goh

hen a patient comes into my office and asks, “What procedures do I need?” the first thing I tell them is that they don’t need anything! A better question is,”What do you want?” Society puts so much pressure on us to look a certain way – I believe you should only do a cosmetic procedure on an area that really bothers you. I personally have a shopping list of procedures I’d like to have, but I put them in terms of my priorities. The work is costly and may require up to two weeks of recovery. I’d rather go to Europe! What are you willing to put into it?

when you’re dressed they can make you look heavier and matronly.

There is a lot we can do without surgery. A woman in her 50s, depending on her weight gain or loss, may be able to get by with relatively non-invasive procedures. For women in their 30s and 40s – live your life well – don’t smoke, use sun block, exercise, etc. One thing we all can do is sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase. We’ve all heard that it’s good for your hair, but it’s also good for your skin. The cotton drags on your face, causing wrinkles. And sleep well. If you don’t sleep, you age faster. Many people don’t realize they have sleep apnea, and poor sleep makes your face look older. Finally, find a way to manage stress.

Grand Strand Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery is located in Myrtle Beach at 4610 Oleander Drive or call 843-497-2227 for an appointment or more information.

But, if you come to see me and haven’t been as vigilant as you would’ve liked, there is still a lot we can do – topical treatments, minor skin peels, Botox and fillers all work very well. As we age, we lose volume in our face, disproportionately to our bodies. Your body may be in great shape, but your face looks too thin. Fillers will give you back a youthful look.

Recently one of my friends was teasing me for not always recommending surgery – that is what I do for a living. But cosmetic surgery is not something you need. You also don’t need a convertible, but it’s really fun to drive! I tell my patients I wear two hats – I teach you about procedures you want, the other is to be the surgeon.

As we age, we get wrinkles, loss of muscle volume and loss of skin elasticity. Deposits of

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Cosmetic surgery will not solve your personal issues, but it can be very empowering. If we change how you feel about you, it’s transformative. I see patients after their procedures, and they stand straighter, smile more and are much more confident – even if the procedure is something small that no one else would notice. The psychodynamics of changing your body are very powerful. It can improve your quality of life.

fat change position on your body. A man could weigh exactly the same at 70 as he did at 35, but look completely different. In women, our faces get thinner, our breasts lose weight, and the skin on the arms loses elasticity. These are things we can help with Coolsculpting and liposuction.

Changing the hips to waist ratio gives a much more youthful appearance. Facelifts can tighten the muscles in the neck, bringing a more contoured look.

Dr. Kimberley Goh is currently Board certified by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery. She is also a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the South Carolina Medical Association, Horry County Medical Society, and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.

Dr. Goh has lived in the Grand Strand area since 1991. What many don’t know is this skilled surgeon is also a talented sculptor!

Visit www.kimberlygohmd.com to see photos of her beautiful work.

Philosophically, I feel that surgeons should not try to push procedures on patients. The risks are low, but there are risks. Some patients want more than they can realistically afford, so I help them decide what would give them the “biggest bang for the buck”. However; if you have gorgeous eyes, an eyelift may enhance them and I might recommend that, but if your neck is what’s bothering you, then that’s all you’ll see.

If you want breast augmentation, I can help you decide what size we can safely do. Larger breasts may look good without clothing, but

Sasee.com

August 2019

Thinking about cosmetic surgery?

At Grand Strand Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery we treat you as an individual and provide you the best service possible. Our staff is experienced and well informed.

Our office includes an AAAA accredited surgical suite, our surgeon is Board Certified, and we offer safe, proven surgical procedures while utilizing the most up to date medical technology. We also offer a wide range of non-invasive procedures and skin care products.

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A Cup of Wine and Thou

by Susan Traugh

A

And it hit me. My life was drudgery because I let it be so. My relationship with my husband was perfunctory because I allowed it to be.

Hovering at retirement age, but broke and raising two grown, disabled daughters, my husband and I worked. And worked. And worked some more. We hadn’t had a vacation in over a decade, never took a weekend off and barely got out once a week for dinner. We barely talked beyond the day-to-day functional talk of organizing therapy visits, coordinating work schedules and getting laundry done.

And, despite our workload – it didn’t have to be.

This was definitely not the retirement I imagined for us when we began this journey. No, when we began, we lived in a romantic cottage replicated from Italy and nestled on the cliffs of California overlooking Catalina Island. When we began, we took long walks past horse-ranches set among rows of pepper trees and cooled by the fragrant breezes from the sea. We spent evenings on our terrace, sipping wine and watching the ships pass between the shore and the island. It was nothing if not idyllic.

After we’d spent that hour alone, the girls came outside and we sat down to a lovely dinner of engaging conversation and melodic laughter on a warm, spring night. As we cleared the table and watched the girls go in to clean up, my husband reached over, grabbed my hand and said, “It doesn’t get much better than this.”

s I glanced through the Facebook pictures of friends wining, dining and having fun, I was jealous.

Then, I dreamed of being a writer, publishing the great American novel and writing works of “significance.” My husband was composing music for symphonies and school children alike. I dreamed we would continue our work and retire someday to a life just like that which we were living, but with the peace and grace of old age and accomplishment to warm us into a sunset of our years.

But that was then and this is now. And now, money is short and chores are numerous. Yes, he composed, but he also worked two jobs. Yes, I write, and have even written my first novel, but only in the middle of the night as I spend my days helping the girls and their expenses are such that we’d never been able to save a dime, let alone consider retirement.

So, now and forever, we work.

And I was becoming more and more resentful of the austerity of my life.

So, I bought some wine – a $4.46 “award winner” – barbequed some chicken and made some bruschetta. I pulled my man outside, and we sat in the light of the sunset, savoring our wine and talking – no, actually talking – while the chicken cooked.

The next day, we were again holding hands as we walked along the beach and shared an ice cream. The day after that, we took a walk to watch the colors in the sky as the sun set and came home to sit on the patio and share the end of the wine. As we polished off the bottle, my husband lifted his glass and toasted, “$4.46 well spent!”

But, I knew I’d turned our relationship back the way I wanted when he reached over, touch his glass to mine and said, “It’s all I’ve ever needed – a cup of wine and thou.”

“My life was drudgery because I let it be

so. My relationship with my husband was perfunctory because I allowed it to be.”

Until last week.

Last week I was invited to a cocktail party for a publisher representing some of my writing. I took my girlfriend and we networked and schmoozed. A typical Southern California affair, we sat by an outdoor fireplace and tasted international hors d’oeuvres while sipping local wine.

And I was in heaven. The gorgeous weather. The adult conversation. The tasty tidbits. And the wine – the glorious, sensuous, fabulous wine.

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Sasee.com

Susan Traugh

lives in San Diego with her husband and three grown children. Her Transition 2 Life series offers adulting help for teens with special needs and is used worldwide. The Edge of Brilliance is a young adult novel that tells of the heroic struggle of a young girl with bipolar disorder and is available on Amazon. For more, go to www.susantraugh.com.

August 2019

Confidence In Your Closings! • 843-448-4246

Meet Our Attorneys David Haar (left), Alan Clemmons (middle) and Spencer Powell (right).

Every Real Estate closing means support for our area’s most important causes! August Contributions go to “Grand Strand Miracle League,” www.grandstrandmiracleleague.com. Our services include Bankruptcy, Real Estate, Wills, Probate, Health Care Directives, LLC Formation, HOA Litigation & Immigration.

Reflections of an Artist: Jonathan Green

by Leslie Moore

Life wasn’t always easy for Jonathan, growing up in the Lowcountry of South Carolina in the 1960s. He won his first art contest in the 5th grade, taking 1st place in a countywide contest sponsored by the 4-H club. But, because he was black, organizers refused to award him the prize. But rather than becoming angry or bitter, Jonathan has used the negatives in his life to propel him forward. “In my life, when negative things happen, I use it as an example – how can I make a change? We have come a long way from the experience of that child growing up in the south in that period of time.”

After high school, Jonathan left the Lowcountry to attend the Chicago Institute of Art. “While I was a student, I worked as a security guard at the Institute museum,” he remembered. “I saw some of the most beautiful pieces of art in the world. Passing them each day, certain pieces stood out, and I wondered why? They were imprinted on my brain, and I wanted to know more about the story of the art. That is how I create– what the viewer catches in a moment may be with them the rest of their life. I bring you with me into the images from my childhood.”

T

he first time I saw a Jonathan Green print, I was mesmerized.

His work is beautiful and moving, a combination that has drawn collectors worldwide. Needless to say, I was “fan girl” excited when Jonathan agreed to an interview with Sasee, and to feature his work on this month’s cover.

He chatted with me about his life and his art from his studio in Charleston – and from his first words I knew this artist is as special and unique as his work.

Chicago is also where Jonathan met his partner of 41 years, Richard Weedman. Richard also manages Jonathan’s studio and handles most of the “business” of the art. “Every day is a gift with Richard,” Jonathan said as he talked about the happiness of their lives together.

“We as artists mostly live in the present moment, but, looking back, I always knew I had talent,” Jonathan began when I asked about his astounding success as an artist. “I was raised by my grandparents – actually, in most cultures, grandparents raise the children. They have more wisdom; they’ve lived longer, making them perfect teachers.” Jonathan continued, saying, “I always knew I had a purpose in life, but it wasn’t about reaching a goal, it was about working toward it. For me, as a child, it was about making something magical happen.”

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Sasee.com

For Jonathan, painting is a very intense, emotional experience – the viewer is drawn in by his use of color and evocative themes.

“The depth of coloring is what makes my work vibrant and sensual. I paint in series, from 10-40 paintings, and the subject matter determines how many paintings will be in a particular series. If I am using bright reds and blues, I do a shorter series.

I can only paint with those colors for a short time.” His technique of using layer upon layer of color gives the depth we all associate with Jonathan Green paintings, and technically, this painting style, used by the Renaissance masters, ensures the paintings will last for hundreds of years.

The everyday scenes of farming, women

August 2019

working, people laughing and enjoying themselves, become so much more in Jonathan’s paintings. “There is greatness everywhere,” Jonathan said emphatically.

“There is greatness in your own back yard.”

While painting remains the center of Jonathan’s life, he is bringing his work to new audiences with his unique fashion line. “I’ve been thinking about this line for many years,” Jonathan told me, obviously excited by his latest project. “I started my education in fashion design, but went to painting because I felt that’s where I belonged.” The color and beauty of his paintings is now reflected in gorgeous shawls and “lunchbox” purses, as well as ties for men. “I wanted to create an accessory piece that will go with anything.” His beautiful art/fashion pieces are now available at Charleston Place Hotel and through his studio website listed at the end of the article.

In October, Jonathan will be adding his artistic mastery to the production of Osceola’s Muse, a dramatic interpretation of two members of the Seminole tribe, Osceola and his wife, Morning Dew, the daughter of a Seminole brave and an escaped African slave. The play will be held in the original Battery Gadsden on Sullivan’s Island, where Osceola was held captive.

To learn more, visit the Pure Theatre website at www.puretheatre.org.

Always looking ahead, Jonathan talked a little about his next painting project. “I want to do a series of paintings about dugout canoes. These canoes were important modes of transportation, and there was an amazing artistry in their creation.”

“I am a living, breathing, project in the works,” Jonathan said as we finished our chat. “I am always beginning, I just keep evolving.”

To see more of Jonathan’s work, including his new fashion line, visit www.jonathangreenstudios.com, call 843-410-1383 for an appointment to visit the studio.

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–Read It!–

Nicole Says…Read These Books Summertime is coming to an end, and there’s no better way to spend the day at the beach than with an exciting read.

Below are two incredible psychological thrillers that you will easily finish before the sun goes down.

The Last Resort

by Marissa Stapley

A Stranger on the Beach

by Michele Campbell

Dr. Miles Markell and Dr. Grace Markell run a successful marriage counseling service in an ideal destination spa resort. They set strict rules for their clients, but that is why their clients come to them. Two couples have arrived, each with their own set of hopes and communication problems. Despite the tropical storm brewing, it seems the real chaos will come from the experts.

Will everyone survive their time at the retreat? Or will someone’s secret doom them all?

Broken into different sections, with teasing psychiatry interviews mixed in between, this is a fast-paced mystery. Secrets are the main theme for each of the characters, and the impending hurricane spells trouble. The author does an incredible job of placing readers in this paradise retreat. It has all the suspense and intrigue of the great classic who-dunnit books.

Fans of Reconstructing Amelia and Big Little Lies, will want to read this book as soon as possible. I have never read this author before, but I have added her other two books to my wish list. I was always a fan of Clue board games, and I can totally see them making a version based on this book. This fun read was exciting and kept me on my toes, as I tried to figure who did it.

Caroline has the perfect house and the perfect marriage… or so it seems. However when the truth comes out, she seeks solace in the arms of a stranger.

Each slight decision has consequences, and Caroline’s moment of weakness may prove to be detrimental.

The author will scoop readers up in the intrigue, and they will not be able to stop reading! The alternating points-of-view will get heart rates pounding. The unreliable narrators provide numerous twists and turns that will have readers guessing until the very end. Fans of The Couple Next Door will thoroughly be intrigued by this mystery.

Psychological thrillers are one of my favorite genres. I am always on the lookout for my new favorite. It was nice to read this type of book, with the male becoming obsessed, instead of the female. I love discovering debut authors, but it is even more exciting when I pick up a book, and realize that I have had the author on my wish list for years. Michele Campbell falls into this second group. I read A Stranger on the Beach and loved it, so when I researched her other books, I realized I had two titles already on my wish list. Time to find them immediately! This is the type of book that will haunt you once you have finished the last line.

Reviews by Nicole McManus

Nicole loves to read, to the point that she is sure she was born with a book in her hands. She writes book reviews in the hopes of helping others find the magic found through reading.

Contact her at ARIESGRLREVIEW.COM.

2019 Fall Lineup October 3 Wine Gala

October 4 Decades Rewind

October 5 Blood Sweat & Tears

October 10 Carpenters Remembered

October 11 Next Generation Leahy

October 12 Pablo Cruise

October 13 Marshall Tucker BAND

October 17 Lords of 52nd Street

October 18 Shades of Bublé

October 19 Soultown

FOR TICKETS AND INFORMATION: WWW.PAWLEYSMUSIC.COM OR CALL 843-626-8911 All Events Held at The Reserve Golf Club of Pawleys Island

Reflections on Forty

by Melissa Face

F

or the past couple of years, I have noticed significant changes in what brings me joy. A great sale, for example, is pretty darn exciting. An upswing in my 401k balance is another fun topic of conversation, but that hardly ever happens. And scheduling more than one medical appointment in a day gives me feelings of productivity and accomplishment that really cannot be rivaled. All of these habits point to one fact: I’m not young anymore.

And just in case there were any doubts, I proved this truth recently when I called my parents after a visit to a new pharmacy. “They are so nice here!” I said. “They filled my prescription quickly; my out-of-pocket was cheaper than other locations, and I was able to make a cup of coffee while I waited!”

“That’s great, Honey,” my mom said.

I paused for a moment and thought about what I had just told her. In the past, I have called my parents to describe restaurant visits, share updates on an interesting piece I was writing, or repeat something hilarious one of my students said. But today, I called my mom to tell her about a trip to a drug store.

“Holy crap,” I thought. “I’m old.”

Getting older definitely has its challenges. My skin and hair require maintenance that wasn’t necessary in my younger years. I take acid reflux medicine to offset the side effects of my blood thinners. And I make food choices based upon how they will make me feel the next day instead of whether or not I enjoy eating them.

Despite these hardships, I must admit that there are some pretty awesome things about getting older.

Another benefit to aging I’ve noticed is gaining the ability to own my faults and not be too hard on myself for them. I know that I can be impulsive and easily distracted. And I realize that those are only two of many faults and imperfections I have. I make mistakes, but I also admit when I’m wrong, and I apologize when I hurt someone’s feelings. These are not easy things to do, but they are much easier now than when I was younger.

I’m also aware that I’m not very domestic, and now that I’m forty, that’s probably not going to change too much. I don’t enjoy cooking and I only clean before vacations or when I know someone is coming over. I’m grateful that there are other people who don’t mind those things, and I’m fortunate that one of them happens to live in my house.

One of the biggest insights I’ve had is that my past does not define me.

I am no longer the immature and irresponsible 19-year-old that I sometimes still hear in my own head. My mediocre high school career did not determine my future success, and I can still accomplish anything I want.

I can be proud of what I have already achieved, and I can stop trying to prove myself to people who never realized they were asking me to.

The wisdom and confidence that come with aging are incredible. Sure, I go to the doctor a lot more frequently than I used to, and I’m sometimes a bit shocked by my own before makeup reflection. But I love my age, and I especially love that even though my skin is saggier and more wrinkled than ever before, I’m finally feeling comfortable in it.

“No one else is putting my needs first. That is

my job. And sometimes that means taking care of me and saying no when my plate is full.”

For starters, I have learned to say “no” and not feel guilty about it. Whether it’s serving on another committee, assisting with a school function, or accepting additional responsibility at work, there are times when I must say “no.” Years ago, this bothered me a lot more than it does now. But I have learned that there is no one sitting around, brainstorming ways of making my life better or easier. No one else is putting my needs first.

That is my job. And sometimes that means taking care of me and saying no when my plate is full.

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Sasee.com

Melissa Face

is a teacher, writer, and mom of two, Melissa Face lives in VA with her family. Melissa’s work has been published in local and national magazines, as well as in Chicken Soup for the Soul. You can read more from her at melissaface.com.

August 2019

GOOD DEED GOODS GIVE WELL•DO GOOD

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As a resident of the area’s only not-for-profit senior community, you’ll enjoy worry-free home ownership featuring one low monthly fee that includes everything from utilities and housekeeping to dining, activities and amenities. And you’ll join with fellow residents to ensure that Covenant Towers maintains the highest standard of living at the lowest possible cost.

Close to everything - away from it all: Covenant Towers. Priced from the low $50s.

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Spacious Floor Plans Friendly, Professional Staff Hair/Nail Salon for Men & Women Fitness Room & Exercise Classes Card, Craft & Game Room Daily Shuttle Service

Friendly, Professional Staff 24-7 Surveillance & Security Secluded Outdoor Swimming Pool Exceptional Daily Dinner Included Regular Trips to Local Attractions Comfortable Library & Lounge

5001 Little River Road • Central Myrtle Beach • 29577 843•449•2484

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Mary Lou Gies: Creating a Life of Grace

by Leslie Moore

repare to laugh a lot when you meet Murrells Inlet resident, Mary Lou Gies. Attractive and lively, Mary Lou’s enthusiasm for life only increases with each passing year. Her secret to moving through the decades of life with grace and joy is simple – stay involved, do things you love – with people you enjoy.

P

knew nursing wasn’t for me, so I became a teacher.” Her choice of special education is a little more personal. Mary Lou’s family lost her brother with Down’s syndrome at two and a half years old. “I remember how the bullies in the neighborhood would make fun of him, and I always wanted to help children like my brother.”

Both Michigan natives, Mary Lou and her husband of 49 years, Peter, have lived in the area for 17 years. “I’ve never lived anywhere this long,” she laughed when I asked her about the places she’s lived. “Peter worked for General Motors, and we’ve moved nine times since we were married.” But Mary Lou and Peter made the very best of their semi-nomad life, creating lifelong friends and happy memories in every community. “We’re going back to Pittsburg next spring for a 50th wedding anniversary. We’ll see friends we haven’t seen in years!”

Mary Lou’s last teaching job before retirement was at Georgetown High School. “We moved to the area in January, and by February I was ready to go back to work,” she remembers. “Peter had to go to Georgetown for a meeting, and I decided to tag along and visit the education office.” When Mary Lou walked in and asked if there was an opening in special education, she was interviewed immediately. Two days later she had a job. “I absolutely loved my students. And, all but two graduated from high school while I was there.”

“

“My favorite place I’ve lived is definitely here,” Mary Lou began. “But, I didn’t want to move at first. We were living in Pinehurst, and thought we would retire there. So, we built our dream home – it had everything we wanted. Before the house was complete, we found out we were being transferred.” Mary Lou went on to tell me she did get to live in her perfect home for a year before moving to the Grand Strand. Now she can’t imagine living anywhere else.

“For sixteen years after our oldest daughter, Jodi, was born I didn’t work,” Mary Lou told me as we began chatting about her teaching career.

“I was very fortunate to be able to do that.” The couple had two more children, Keri and Greg, but when Greg, the youngest, was in 6th grade, Mary Lou decided it was time to go back to work.

“I taught learning disabled students for 25 years,” she told me. “I loved every minute of it.” A love of teaching runs in the family – Mary Lou’s mother also taught. “When I graduated from high school, there weren’t as many choices for women. You could be a teacher, a nurse or a secretary. I was terrible at typing and

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When I asked Mary Lou if she had a favorite decade so far, she thought a minute, laughed and said, “I guess the ‘80s. That’s when all the kids were home and very involved in sports and other activities. Peter was always a hands-on father and came to as many games as he could – he coached Jodi’s soccer team and on Saturdays he would go to the away game with Jodi’s team. Meanwhile, I would go to one child’s home game and the other child would ride with a teammate. It was really busy, but always fun!”

These days, both Peter and Mary Lou stay almost as active as they did while raising their family. A big no-no these days, Mary Lou still loves the sun – and judging by her youthful glow, it hasn’t hurt her a bit. “I’ve always enjoyed taking my sand chair to the beach and sitting with my feet in the water and reading,” she told me and laughed. But long, lazy days on the beach are not something she does very often – she’s too busy!

“I retired from teaching in 2008, and right after I started

Sasee.com

August 2019

volunteering with Pawleys Island Festival of Music & Art and Miss Ruby’s Kids. For Miss Ruby’s Kids, I chaired the auction and silent auction committees for their annual garden party. Now I chair the silent auction committee for PIFMA’s Wine Gala.” This is just the beginning of Mary Lou’s activities. She is the chair of her voting precinct, serves on several committees in her Wachesaw Plantation community, is a member of a book club, a bridge club and three lunch bunch groups. And she volunteers at Rescued Treasures one day a week, a thrift store that supports All4Paws animal rescue. All of this doesn’t even include the couple’s active social life! “My oldest daughter laughs because she can never catch us at home. But I just have to stay busy!”

Mary Lou also had a part-time career in retail, working first at Barefoot Elegance and then Carolina Gourmet until last December. “I am considering another part time job,” Mary Lou laughed as I marveled at her energy.

“My women friends are so important,” this energetic woman told me as we were discussing friendship. “And I have different groups of friends – some acquaintances and some really good friends. “It’s nice because I see a good mix of people, plus we have our core, closeknit group.”

The only downside to life is how far away her children live. Jodi, the oldest, lives in Leewood, Kansas, where she works as District Sales Manager for Thryv. Single, Jodi does visit every Christmas, and Peter and Mary Lou go to Kansas for Thanksgiving. Her middle daughter, Keri, lives with her husband, Wayne, in Boise, Idaho. Keri took her mom’s passion for giving back and made it into a career. She works as the Director of Resource and Development for the Idaho Non-Profit Association. And the youngest, son Greg, lives in Portland, Maine, with his wife, Sarah, and their two children, Ellarae, who is 2 ½ and 7 month old Fenton. The couple both work full-time; Greg with FedEx, and Sarah as the manager of a physician’s office.

The family gets together as often as they can – but never enough for Peter and Mary Lou. “When Ellarae was born, Peter said he was the oldest first-time grandfather he knew! But both of our grandchildren are such happy children. They have wonderful parents.” The family did gather in Portland this past April, and Mary Lou beamed telling me about the happy reunion.

“I’ve had a great life,” Mary Lou said as we finished up our time together. “I have a great husband – our lives have been an adventure. Yes, there were ups and downs, but we have always made the very best of it. Our three children are wonderful, and I’m very pleased with the partners they’ve chosen. I’ve been very fortunate.”

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843-492-6911

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Coastal Carolina University welcomes you to a vibrant community of “seasoned adults” who love learning new skills, exploring a wide range of topics and touring a variety of local, regional and international destinations. OLLI at CCU offers noncredit classes (in arts and crafts, philosophy and science, politics and history, dance, music, technology, estate planning, etc.), lectures and clubs in our centers in Conway and Litchheld.

Come to our open house, Taste of OLLI, on Wednesday, Sept. 4 in Conway or Friday, Sept. 6 in Litchheld.

Explore our website at coastal.edu/olli or call 843-349-6584 or 843-349-5002 for information about fall programming.

Remembering Sasee Superstar Connie Barnard

Last month, we lost a dear friend, and one of the writers who helped shape Sasee into the magazine you love today. From the very first issue, back in 2002, Connie Barnard’s well written essays and interviews endeared her to readers. Connie reached out to Sasee publisher, Delores Blount, and marketing director, Susan Bryant, when she saw a call for writers for the brand new magazine. And, fortunately for all of us, her beautifully crafted words graced these pages regularly until a vision issue forced her to retire a few years ago.

An English teacher for many years, it was after her retirement that Connie began her second career as a freelance writer, and her work was featured here and in many other local publications.

Connie’s “Southern Snaps” features reached into the hearts of those she met and with each interview, we, her readers, felt we made a new friend. Connie’s easy going personality and kindness

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were impossible to resist. When I first joined the Sasee team, her gentle instruction helped me grow into a better writer and interviewer.

While we were always fascinated by the people she chose to highlight, our favorite features were the ones Connie wrote about herself. Her two features about the trips she and her husband, Howard, took across the world on freighter ships were hugely popular, and Connie’s joy in these journeys shined through her words.

Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends, especially her husband of 55 years, Howard Barnard, and son, Howard Barnard IV, and daughter, Elizabeth Blum. We will miss you Connie Barnard. Your life made the world a better place for all of us.

Sasee.com

August 2019

Clothing you & your family for over 25 years

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Senior Living (843) 353-1525 • 699 Prince Creek Parkway, Murrells Inlet, SC, 29576 • ThriveAtPrinceCreek.com 35

Beauty Secrets of my Grandmother

by Janet Combs

A

t the end of the night, I put my last dime on the painted square marked 7 – my age at the time. I was visiting my Grandma for a week during the summer, and she had taken me to one of those pop-up roadside carnivals. The carnival worker announced “All bets down!” and spun the wheel so fast the plywood table shook on its supporting horses.

Click, click, click – the wheel slowed, passing seven; I sighed and turned away, sinking into my usual unlucky, all-glasses-and-buck-toothed selfimage.

Speaking of skin, Grandma also routinely took me skinny-dipping nightly in her neighborhood pool. I now realize she lived in an adult community and that rambunctious grandchildren doing cannon-balls next to freshlycoiffed seniors treading water was frowned upon by the homeowner’s association – so she found a clever way around it that simply added to her overall mystique.

“Wait, wait!” the carnival worker shouted as the wheel laboriously and miraculously made its way around one more time, stopping securely on my age. I screamed; my Grandmother did, too. She walked me over to the prize booth where I picked out a 5-foot stuffed, pink poodle with a gemstone collar.

I had to remind myself of this last week when I saw a close-up photo of me about to plant a kiss on the cheek of a man retiring from my office – a photo I jokingly texted to my younger sister with the title “chicken lips.”

It is unflattering but it is authentic.

“Isn’t she grand?” my Grandmother said, lugging the poodle to the field where her car was parked.

I was stunned, having never won anything so remarkable. Grandma opened the trunk. I threw up in the grass beside her car.

Apparently, the entire ride home I treated my Grandmother to a streamof-consciousness on the profound effect of this moment. Wasn’t this the best night? Did she ever imagine I’d win? What should we name it? It’s taller than me, right, Grandma? Right?

By the time we got home, I was so overwrought I had another celebratory upchuck on her front lawn, which is when my Grandma must have decided to give me a quarter of a sleeping pill – not so that I could eventually get some sleep, but so that she could.

In the morning, I woke refreshed in her big bed and joined in her usual routine of bicycling in the air on our backs, stretching our arms over our head, pulling our knees into our chests and twisting side to side.

This was another fun thing about Grandma – her daily exercises – it never occurred to me that perhaps these were her necessary precursors to getting out of bed.

This is the Grandma I want to be.

Today’s marketing aimed at the 55-plus woman can feel like a fire hose of cosmetics and surgery to “help us look our best” and “rejuvenate” the body and face we see reflected in our mirrors. But my childhood relationship with my Grandmother taught me that my goals as I age shouldn’t focus on how I look.

Here are a few beauty secrets from my Grandma. Be genuinely interested in others and ask a lot of questions. Stay open to new developments rather than disparaging them and bringing up the past. Never talk about aches and pains – that’s boring. Be spontaneous. Smile frequently.

Grow to become memory-worthy.

“This was another fun thing about Grandma – her daily exercises – it never occurred to me that perhaps these were her necessary precursors to getting out of bed.”

My point is, I had no idea that my Grandmother was “old.” I have no vivid memories of her wrinkles, of her age spots, of her possibly sagging bosom or flabby upper arms or un-toned belly. I don’t think she tried to log a certain number of miles walking per week, nor did she go to yoga class regularly. Neither was she bombarded by Facebook ads about retinol or liposuction, as the Grandmas in my generation are. She was entirely comfortable in her own skin.

36

Sasee.com

Janet Fricke Combs

is a freelance writer living in Pawleys Island with her husband, Rich, and their dog, Moose. She writes the weekly column “Planet Janet” for the Georgetown Times and the South Strand News. Visit her website at https://janetfrickecombs.wordpress.com.

August 2019

It’s Back-To-School Time!

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37

Nicole Says...

Read These Books to Your Kids Reviews by Nicole McManus Margaret, Pirate Queen

by Marsha S. Tennant with Dub Sutton Illustrated by Amy Chapman Margaret is relaxing on her South Carolina porch, when her ship, The Howling Queen, appears.

Time to set sail! Margaret and Mad Maverick lead a group of sea dogs into battle with the crew of The Bulldog Bandit. With victory comes rewards‌ shrimp for dinner and jewelry shopping at the Charleston market. Time to regroup, before the next adventure begins!

This is an exciting story, fun for children and adults. I could hear various voices in my head, as I read, and I think parents/grandparents will have a blast creating each character’s voice as they read to the kids. The pictures are beautiful and represent several dog breeds.

Margaret and the Diamond Key Mystery

by Marsha S. Tennant with Lyric Bailey Illustrated by Amy Crane

In the second adventure of The Howling Queen crew, they are on a quest to find a treasure chest.

They encounter merpup and suspicious kittens, along the way. When they get to their destination, will they be able to solve the riddle and claim the loot?

Chocked full of pirate lingo, this is the ultimate quest for treasure. I thoroughly loved the uniqueness of the Dalmatian merpup! The bright colored pictures will catch the eye of even the youngest readers. This is a fun, imaginative tale for fans of pirates and puppies!

When reading these stories, I could picture them as the adventures my two Italian Greyhounds dream about, in their sleep! The author donates all proceeds to help local animal shelters. So the whole family will have fun, while helping animals like the ones in the book.

Reviews by Nicole McManus

Nicole loves to read, to the point that she is sure she was born with a book in her hands. She writes book reviews in the hopes of helping others find the magic found through reading.

Contact her at ARIESGRLREVIEW.COM.

End of Summer Slimdown!

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Read Shirley’s Emotional Story...

My name is Shirley and I am a wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. I worked for Darlington County School District for 31 years, I drove a school bus for 15 years, and for the remaining 16 years I worked as a Student Data Manager. I struggled with my weight since I had my first child in 1973. The weight just kept pouring on. I was at 230 pounds and very unhappy with my weight and the way I looked in the mirror. Being so overweight, I became depressed and I just began to eat what I wanted, when I wanted. I was diagnosed with diabetes in 1983 and was put on 2 different kinds of insulin, taking 4 shots a day. My doctor kept telling me I needed to lose weight and get my A1C from 13 down to 6. Over the years I tried so many weight loss programs unsuccessfully.

After my retirement in June 2018, I decided it was time for me to get my health right.

On my way to a doctor’s appointment in August of 2018, every billboard I saw read “Rapid Weight Loss”. I asked the Lord if he was trying to tell me something. I called and

the staff was so friendly and they got me scheduled to come in for a free consultation the next week. I started my weight loss journey with Dr. Sattele on August 8, 2018! I enjoyed eating real food, and the diet was very easy to follow. I really enjoyed the medical staff. They were very supportive and encouraging if I had any questions.

When my weight loss journey began I was at 219 pounds. As of January 30, 2019, I have lost a total of 74 pounds! I have learned how to discipline myself and stick to the diet. The weight loss has also increased my confidence and has shown me that I can do anything when I believe in myself. I am now INSULIN FREE and have more energy. I feel so much better. My life has changed tremendously and I am so happy and proud of myself for not giving up. I would recommend this program to anyone who has a weight issue. This program has helped boost my self-esteem and has truly helped me realize that I can do all things through Christ. Who gives me strength!

Thank you Dr. Sattele so much for this program, Shirley P McCoy.

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August 2019

1-29 ~ Music on Main Concert Series,

6-27 ~ Calabash Concerts,

Thursdays, North Myrtle Beach, 7-9pm. For more info, call 843-280-5594 or visit NMBParksAndRec on Facebook.

Tuesdays, 6-9pm, Calabash Community Park. For more info, call 910-575-0000 or visit www.calabashconcerts.com.

1-31 ~ Fun for Kids at Myrtle Beach State Park,

10 ~ Trip Rodgers Band,

Tuesday – Saturday, various nature programs, most free with park admission. For more info, call 843-238-5325 or visit www.southcarolinaparks.com.

1-11 ~ A Bench in the Sun,

Swamp Fox Players, Strand Theater, Georgetown.

For more info, visit www.swampfoxplayers.com or call 843-527-2924 Ext. 1.

1- 9/8 ~ Can’t You Sea? Ocean Plastic Artifacts,

7pm, Brookgreen Summer Music Festival, free with garden admission, food trucks available. For more info, call 843-235-6000 or visit www.brookgreen.org.

15 ~ The Stranger, A Tribute to Billy Joel,

7pm, Concerts on the Green, Valor Park, Market Common.

For more info, visit www.marketcommonmb.com.

25 ~ Fireside Collective at The Rectory Lawn,

exhibit at the Art Museum of Myrtle Beach, 3100 S. Ocean Blvd.

For more info, call 843-238-2510 or visit www.myrtlebeachartmuseum.org.

6pm, 3510 Kings River Road, Pawleys Island. For more info, visit www.allsaintspawleys.org.

2-30 ~ Ocean Isle Concert Series,

Fridays, 6:30-8pm, Museum of Coastal Carolina parking lot, E. Second St., Ocean Isle Beach, N.C. For more info, call 910-579-6030.

Kathryn Smith discusses Gertie: Heiress, Hunter, Socialite, Spy, 11am, Kimbel’s Wachesaw, $30. For more info, call 843-235-9600 or visit www.classatpawleys.com.

3-31 ~ Farmers Markets,

9/7 ~ An Evening with Sue Ham and Friends,

Saturdays, 10am-3pm in Market Common.

For more info, 843-839-3500 or visit www.marketcommonmb.com; Saturdays, 8am–1pm, 122 Screven Street, Georgetown.

For more info, visit www.historicgeorgetownsc.com.

30 ~ Moveable Feast,

7:30pm, Winyah Auditorium, Georgetown. For more info, visit www.winyahauditorium.org or call 843-461-1342.

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Advertiser Index

42

The B. Graham Interiors Collection.....................................................10 Bethea Baptist Retirement Community................................................25 Bleu......................................................................................................25 Brightwater............................................................................................7 Brookgreen Gardens.............................................................................19 Carolina Car Care................................................................................32 Carolina Center for Advanced Dentistry..............................................11 The Citizens Bank................................................................................29 Clemmons Law Firm............................................................................21 Coastal Luxe.........................................................................................44 Comfort Keepers..................................................................................19 Covenant Towers..................................................................................29 Custom Outdoor Furniture....................................................................3 Dr. Grabeman......................................................................................24 Dr. Sattele’s Rapid Weight Loss & Esthetic Centers..............................39 Eleanor Pitts.........................................................................................24 Good Deed Goods...............................................................................29 Grand Strand Plastic Surgery................................................................19 Homespun Crafters Mall......................................................................37 Hospice Care of SC..............................................................................10 The Joggling Board...............................................................................35

The Lakes at Litchfield.........................................................................41 Long Bay Symphony............................................................................10 The Manor...........................................................................................43 Moore, Johnson and Saranti Law Firm PA...........................................13 Myrtle Beach Plastic Surgery..................................................................9 Palmetto Ace........................................................................................32 The Palmettos Assisted Living & Memory Care....................................24 Papa John’s Pizza..................................................................................24 Pawleys Island Festival of Music & Art.................................................27 Portside at Grande Dunes.......................................................................2 Prodigy Kitchens & Baths....................................................................32 PruittHealth Skilled Nursing, Home Health & Hospice Care..............15 Pure Compounding..............................................................................37 OLLI....................................................................................................33 Rose Arbor Fabrics...............................................................................37 Shades and Draperies...........................................................................17 This and That 4 You.............................................................................10 Thrive at Prince Creek..........................................................................35 Two Sisters with Southern Charm........................................................35 Value Pest.............................................................................................32 WEZV.................................................................................................42

Investing in our Future

Barbara and Gerry Rosenlund ~ Patio Home Testimonial Barbara and Gerry Rosenlund met 62 years ago in Kansas at the wedding of mutual friends. They met in August, and they were married the following February. The two spent three years traveling for the Navy, and then the next 35 years moving from state to state with Gerry’s job at DuPont where he served as Plant Manager. They first came to Florence in 1969 for work, spent four years here, returned in 1989 and have remained in Florence ever since. Something about Florence just stuck and they grew to love the city and the people. Just as they were quickly sure of each other when they met, so they were quickly sure of their decision to move to The Manor for retirement. Take a read as they share their story of becoming residents of Asbury Village Patio Homes.

How’d you first come to know about The Manor?

Probably through the paper! Through your ads! But we hadn’t really given serious thought to The Manor and hadn’t even been out here, but our kids encouraged us to give retirement communities some thought. We actually had a deposit down at a community at the beach. Word got out that we were looking at the beach and some of our friends got after us asking, “Why would you leave Florence? Why would you leave your friends, your routine, your community, your doctors?” And we realized that was a great point. When we really started looking at things seriously, one of the things that really impressed us is that in the Patio Homes, you make an investment in your Occupancy Fee and you get it all back if your situation changes and you need to move to another part of the community. At the beach, you lost 40% in four years. It made a huge difference to us. I don’t know of anyone else who offers 100% refund on Occupancy Fee like The Manor does. We see it as making an investment in our future. And we don’t have to go through a move if something changes – because we’re already here!

You LOVE to Travel.

What happens to your Patio Home while you’re gone?

We’ve had a house in Michigan for 53 years; we go there every summer. We love to travel. We like to go, go, go! We’ve been all over the world. And we’re not stopping anytime soon, hopefully! Now that we’re at The Manor, we don’t have the worries we used to. Before, when we’d go to Michigan for the summer, Gerry would come home to Florence at least once to check on the house, and we don’t have to do that anymore.

The Manor keeps the house clean, checks that everything is okay, and we really don’t think twice about the house while we’re gone. We used to have to come home to a host of things to do, like clean up the yard, clean the pool, see if the air was working or if the water pipes were okay. Here, when we come home the house is just as we left it.

It certainly makes our leaving for trips significantly easier. It’s truly maintenance-free.

We just get up and go when we want, and the house isn’t even on the list of things to think about.

How did you know The Manor was right for you?

At that point, we still had money down on a place at the beach, before we had seriously looked at The Manor. Then, we came out to tour The Manor, knowing we could still get our money back at the beach, and when we came here we realized that this is the place we were supposed to be. We got a much bigger house, a yard…I mean, the house at the beach was nice but it was nowhere near as nice as this. And then we got a realtor and our house sold in 47 days! We always think about the Lord leading us wherever we were going to go and do, and with as fast as our house sold it indicated to us that we were doing the right thing.

Fill in the blank.

My favorite part about being a Patio Home resident is ___________.

Worry-free living. You just don’t have to worry about all these things that you had to out there in a normal home owner situation. Beyond that, it’s the comradery with other people. Nice social things…we’ve met some great people! We’ve thoroughly enjoyed meeting all the great people and sharing life experiences and swapping stories. It’s such a nice atmosphere. Everybody is just so friendly. We’ve got plenty of choices of things to do. No shortage of that for sure. And don’t forget the food! The food is fantastic.

What did your children think of The Manor?

What was their reaction to the idea of coming here?

When they first saw it, their jaws dropped open. They couldn’t believe how nice it all was. My mom had been in a place in Kansas for 19 years, and it was nice…a little dated. But this is so much nicer than her place. The kids are thrilled that we’re here and that we’re enjoying the lifestyle we have here. We told them about how we have two new major appliances in our house, a new air unit and a new dishwasher, and the great part about being a Manor resident is we didn’t have to lift a finger to make it happen!

If someone was considering moving into a Patio Home but wasn’t sure, what would you say to them?

Just do it! And don’t wait too long! I’ve always heard that most people wait about seven years too late beyond when they should make that decision, and I think we’ve made our decision early enough that we can truly enjoy it. Getting involved and seeing people and having things to do…it probably helps people live longer! Don’t be stubborn. Don’t be so tied to your house or your things that you miss out. It’s truly a community here and we couldn’t be happier with our decision.

Independent Living + Assisted Living + Memory Care

2100 Twin Church Road, Florence, SC 29501 (843) 664-0700 www.themanorseniorliving.com

This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

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Better Living by Design

Coastal Luxe Interiors 67th Ave. 6613 N. Kings Highway, Myrtle Beach, SC 29572 843.946.6644 • www.coastal-luxe.com