Clutch Summer 2016

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your guide to an inspired life

Summer 2016 • Complimentary

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Regain your freedom Do you schedule your life around trips to the bathroom? Don’t suffer in silence. Centra physical therapists are trained in pelvic health and specialize in the evaluation and treatment of problems caused by pelvic floor disorders. Therapists provide holistic care, individualized programs and private, one-on-one treatment sessions. Common conditions we treat include:

Call to schedule a confidential consultation 434.200.6623 Centra Specialists:

• Bladder and bowel incontinence • Overactive bladder • Post-partum injury after childbirth • Pelvic organ prolapse With accurate diagnosis and treatment, most can find relief. In many cases, physician referral is not required. Treatment of incontinence and pelvic pain is also available for men. Visit our website for more information.

B

Rehab.CentraHealth.com

Pictured left to right: Brandy H. Wilson, PT, DPT Kelsey Wood, PT, DPT

f Facebook.com/CentraRehabilitation


SMILE IT’S SUMMER Actual patient, Se-Anna

Have a reason to show your smile. At Central Virginia Orthodontics, we are dedicated to outfitting you with the perfect smile, no matter what you are doing. With state-of-the-art technology and the latest techniques, you can enjoy exceptional care in our warm, relaxing atmosphere.

Dr. Eric Baugher | Dr. Jennifer Claiborne

434.385.GRIN (4746) | bracesbycvo.com 7802 Timberlake Road, Lynchburg

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your guide to an inspired life PUBLISHER/EDITOR

VENDORS

Jennifer Prince Alpaca by Jaca CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Photo by Zachary Taylor Photography

Stephanie Budd

Dear Friend,

Inside Back Cover

Bella Boudoir

35

Bowen Jewelry Company

Inside Back Cover

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Ah, summer! The days are longer

Carilion Clinic

Amber Ingram

and warmer and overall just more

Back Cover

Ann Lucchini

Centra Medical Group

38

PROOF READING

Centra Rehabilitation

Front Inside Cover

fun. I am a long way from being a child, but I still get giddy when I

Meggan Robinson

think of carefree days and being on a looser schedule.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Shella Baker

This issue is packed full of ideas

Tea Hadzic

From composting to hosting a

Emily Hedrick

yard sale and thrifting, you will

Joy Niehaus

1

7

Grandin CoLab

Jennifer Prince

learn how to reduce while saving

Fink's Jewelers

Grand Home Furnishings

Stephanie Fees

for you to utilize this season.

19

Inside Back Cover

Gladiola Girls

25

Hill City Bride

15

Paula Skulina

money. Also, be sure to test out

Deirdre Serio

our summer bingo list. Gather the

Azalea Smith

kids and do fun activities - make

Central Virginia Orthodontics

MyLuxuryBath.com

3

Punch Boutique

12

Stephanie Specht The Art Box

Lisa Turille

Inside Back Cover

popsicles (the healthy way!), do a craft and explore local events

ASSIGNMENT PHOTOGRAPHERS

through our calendars.

Liz Cook - Liz Cook Photography

Timberlake Christian Schools TINK'S Place

22

31

Allegra - Allegra’s Studio

No matter what your summer entails, we hope to inspire you along the way!

cover photo by Amanda Isidro of fashions from Gladiola Girls, Live Trendy or Die and Punch Boutique clutch, your guide to an inspired life is a quarterly publication. To contact us for advertising, comments or questions: please email jennifer@theclutchguide.com or call 434-851-2224 Copyright 2016 by 7 Hills Publishing. Contents within are for informational purposes only and may not be copied in any way in whole or part without written consent from clutch. All views expressed are that of the authors and not necessarily that of clutch. Advertisers are not inevitably endorsed by nor can clutch be held responsible for their services. The information contained within is deemed to be reliable at the time of printing. Our pictorial material has been used in good faith with permission from the advertiser, photographer or source, yet clutch cannot be held responsible for infringements arising out of such usage. As much as is humanly possible, wholehearted attempts have been made for our publication to be as accurate as possible, and we hope that those who read it realize the purpose of our publication is to bring about thought and creativity to its readership.

/theclutchguide

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@theclutchguide

www.theclutchguide.com

theclutchguide

@theclutchguide


M Y L U X U R Y B AT H . C O M

CUSTOM BATH SOLUTIONS MADE SIMP LE

MY LU XURY B ATH .C O M

Mention the code CLUTCH350 to save $350 off the purchase of bathroom design. 855-755-4887

|

myluxurybath.com

|

1220 Main Street, Lynchburg, VA 24504

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In Season Summer Bingo Bucket List Looking for a fresh spin on the summer bucket list? Why not try “bingo”? We’ve put together a card full of some of our favorite local summer activities. Have fun enjoying old favorites and exploring new discoveries. Plan to get five in a row or fill up the whole card. Having fun? Be sure to show us by using #clutchinspires!

B PLAY AT A LOCAL PARK

I

N G O

GET ICE CREAM AT A LOCAL ICE CREAM

VISIT A STATE PARK

STAND/PARLOR

HIKE IN THE BLUE

VISIT A

RIDGE MOUNTAINS

HISTORICAL SITE

SEE A PLAY

SHOPPING YARD SALES

SPEND A MORNING OR ANTIQUE SHOPS

MAKE A MEAL USING

MAKE A

INGREDIENTS FROM A

RECIPE/CRAFT YOU

FARMERS MARKET

SAW IN CLUTCH

GO BOATING

YOU HAVEN’T BEEN TO BEFORE 4

PLAN A BLOCK PARTY

FLOAT DOWN THE JAMES RIVER

EAT AT A FOOD TRUCK

SPEND THE AFTERNOON AT A MUSEUM

PICK UP THE SUMMER

LISTEN TO A LOCAL

VISIT A LOCAL

ISSUE OF THE CLUTCH

BAND PERFORM

BREWERY OR WINERY

BROWSE A LOCAL

DRIVE THE BLUE

VISIT A LOCAL

BOOKSTORE

RIDGE PARKWAY

LANDMARK

TRY A LOCALLY OWNED RESTAURANT

EXPLORE A TRAIL

VOLUNTEER WITH A LOCAL CHARITY

SEND A POSTCARD FROM YOUR HOME TOWN

DO A RANDOM ACT OF KINDNESS


inside this issue HOME

STYLE

CULINARY healthy, summer popsicles THE PERFECT YARD SALE THE EMBELLISHED LIFE transform your bathroom CRUNCHY LIVING DI-Why Not?

MY OMBRE LIFE

pg 6 pg 10

pg 14

pg 16

pg 34

EASY, BREEZY FASHION warm weather inspiration Calendars

pg 19

In Season

pg 4

pg 36

pg 18

LIFE FLOURISH

pg 23

AMOUR BEBE

pg 24

WOMEN OF A CERTAIN AGE PLAYFUL PARENTING summer learning ideas PET PONDERINGS GEEKY GIRL

pg 26

pg 28

pg 30

pg 32

Photo by Allegra’s Studio

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Photos by Allegra’s Studio

Clutch goes Culinary

Natural Popsicles Summer means rising temperatures and an abundance of fresh fruit. Take advantage of both and follow these recipes for refreshing - and healthy – popsicles from culinary artist Stephanie Fees.

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Coconut & Mixed Fruit These mildly flavored popsicles are made to show off the natural sweetness of fresh fruit. Use whatever you have in the refrigerator if you don’t have the exact ingredients in the recipe.

Ingredients •

2 cups coconut water

2 T sugar

1 kiwi, peeled and thinly sliced

4 strawberries, hulled and chopped

1 pint blueberries

Method Mix together the coconut water and sugar in a bowl and heat in the microwave until the sugar has melted, 1-2 minutes. Pour into popsicle mold until about halfway full. Add in kiwi slices, strawberries, and blueberries, then top with more coconut water until the mold is full. Freeze for at least 4 hours or until solid.

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home

Blackberries & Cream If you don’t favor blackberries, you can substitute any in season berry (or berry mix) to make these creamy pops.

Ingredients •

1 lb. frozen or fresh blackberries

1/3 c sugar

1/3 c water

1/2 c unflavored yogurt

2 T honey

2 T lemon juice

Method Combine blackberries, sugar, water, and lemon juice in a small saucepan over the stove and simmer over low heat until blackberries have broken down, about 15 minutes. Strain out the seeds through a strainer, then pour the mixture into popsicle molds with some room to add the yogurt at the top. Meanwhile, mix together

the yogurt and honey in a bowl, then add 2 tablespoons of the mixture to each mold. Swirl the yogurt into the blackberry mixture with a spoon or wooden skewer, then freeze until solid, about 4-5 hours.

Watermelon & Cucumber These are great made into layers or mixed together. Try them both ways to

Method

see which you prefer.

First, mix the cucumber, 1 T lime juice, mint (if using), and 1 T of

sugar in a blender and blend until smooth. Taste, and add more

Ingredients •

sugar if you like sweeter popsicles. Set cucumber mix aside. Then,

1/2 lb. cucumber, peeled and roughly chopped (about one small)

take watermelon and add to a blender with 1 T lime juice and 1

1 lb. watermelon, cut in chunks (about 1/3 of a large watermelon)

mold and freeze until solid. Add cucumber mixture, freeze until

2 T lime juice (from one lime)

10 mint leaves, picked from stems (optional)

2 T sugar

T sugar. Blend until smooth, taste, and add sugar if necessary. If layering, pour watermelon mixture 1/3 of the way into a popsicle solid, and finish with watermelon mixture. Freeze until solid, about 4-5 hours. Stephanie Fees was trained in the culinary arts in NYC. She is also a sommelier who enjoys traveling and blogs at www.alphagalcooks.com.

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THE PERFECT YARD SALE Warm weather is here, and thoughts immediately dawn on the fun that is in store... it’s yard sale season! Although some may sleep in on Saturday mornings, my inner alarm clock knows that I better get up and moving or the bargains belong to someone else. Whether you are buying or selling, here are some fun tips to have a successful - and profitable - season.

Seller Tips PICK A DATE WELL IN ADVANCE. This will allow you time to prepare and comb through your belongings. It’s amazing how much easier it is to part with things once you know that you will have cash by selling a little used item. FIND A LOCATION. A high traffic area is best; so if you have a family member or business owner who has a spot on a main road, don’t be afraid to ask. Also, decide on an indoor or outdoor sale. For an indoor sale, clearly mark what areas are “off limits” to visitors. SELL WITH FRIENDS. The more the merrier, plus it will attract more buyers. Having an “8 family” or “neighborhood” event helps sale-goers realize that they can maximize their time by hitting many sellers in a one area.

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Pricing Tips Be sure to clearly mark and price each item. For a more flexible option, create sections for your sale - say a $1 table - so that prices are clear. If you don’t have time to mark things, you can always tell people a price - although some people are too shy to ask, and as a seller it can be difficult to keep prices straight in your head.


home BE REASONABLE WITH PRICING.

CREATE NOTICEABLE,

If your prices are too high, buyers

READABLE SIGNS.

will shy away. Don’t sell yourself too

Use large pieces of cardboard or

short, yet also be prepared to part

poster board to announce your

with your items. Do not expect to get

sale. You will get a lot of drive-by

retail or consignment shop prices. A

traffic, and these shoppers need

good judge is pricing items at around

to be able to clearly see where you

10% of what it would cost new. You

are located. Directional signs are

will be haggled with, so be prepared

helpful (say leading drivers from

to remain firm on some items while

key intersections). If you live off the

accepting offers on others. For a buyer purchasing multiple items, a group discount is a nice added touch. WHEN LISTING YOUR YARD SALE

beaten path, adding a distance - for example, “yard sale 1.3 miles” - will be helpful so that drivers do not have to question where they are headed.

UTILIZE THE FREE OPTIONS, AND SKIP THE CLASSIFIED ADS! Post the event on Craigslist a few

INFORMATION TO INCLUDE ON YOUR SIGNS (must have items are bolded):

days before, and include your

• sale day and/or date

address, photos and a description on

• start and end times

the listing. Add your sale to Facebook

• directional arrow

“yard sale” pages. If you don’t belong

• address

to one, just search “yard sale” on

• types of items

Facebook, and many will come up! Request to join a group, and then

• # of families participating if it is a multiple family sale

post about your event.

• organization it benefits, if any

Tips for a Hosting a Group Yard Sale Divvy up jobs such as signage,

of their items to a designated cashier, who

promotion, drinks and snacks (which

checks the buyer out along with logging

are nice to have at a group sale... coffee

each seller’s sales. If this seems like too

can make everyone’s morning better).

much work, have sellers take care of their

Have each person promote the

own sales. event on their social media pages and

Assign people a place to set up, and

other outlets.

consider safety concerns like sun exposure,

Be specific about drop off and set up

tree roots and holes in the yard. times. Your friends will adore you if

Make sellers responsible for their

they can unload on a Friday night for

own items, and have them bring tables

a Saturday sale!

and chairs.

Have a designated place for sellers

Encourage childcare as it is easy for selling

to park their cars after they unload

parents to get distracted, and a busy sale

so that shoppers can have the prime

with lots of buyers driving in and out can

parking spaces.

be dangerous for little ones.

Decide how you will keep track of sales.

If you are participating at a group sale, be

Often items are color-coded or have

extra courteous to your host, and a little

identification on the tag, such as the

thank you is always nice.

seller’s initials. Shoppers can take all Photos by Liz Cook Photography

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HANG YOUR SIGNS UP

MERCHANDISE YOUR ITEMS.

Having someone (your spouse or

AHEAD OF TIME.

Make your yard sale a pleasant place

a friend) who can step off to the

Signs out on a Thursday afternoon

to shop, and place objects in an

side and organize the money is very

will catch the attention of those who

attractive arrangement. Group like

helpful. It offers the opportunity to

are thinking of heading out to sales

items, such as placing children’s

arrange the bills in order and also

over the weekend.

clothing, books and toys together.

separate some of the money so that

SAVE YOUR PLASTIC

HAVE PLENTY OF CHANGE.

you do not have to pull it all out in

BAGS AND BOXES.

Go to the bank and get quarters, $1s,

order to give change.

These will come in handy when

$5s, and $10s. If a buyer has been to the

BE AWARE OF SHOPLIFTERS.

people purchase multiple items at

ATM, they will be armed with $20 bills...

This is the most disappointing thing

your sale.

even when purchasing an item for $1.

to experience at a yard sale, so keep

HAVE A PLAN FOR KIDS AND PETS.

WEAR YOUR MONEY.

small, valuable or high-ticket items

Arrange childcare or assign duties to

You can don an 80s fanny pack if

within close proximity to avoid loss.

children, and keep family pets at bay.

you’d like, but a small, cross body bag

DONATE YOUR ITEMS.

HAVE PLENTY OF

with a secure closure helps keep track

At the end of the sale, decide what

SELLING SURFACES.

of the money at all times.

items you want to pack away and

Use foldable tables and garment

PROTECT YOURSELF

what you would like to donate.

racks when you can. Tarps, blankets

FROM THE SUN!

Heading to a local charity (or calling

and upside down totes and boxes can

Hopefully you will have a lovely,

their pickup service ahead of time)

offer extra places to put your wares.

sunny day, so be prepared to slather

helps the community.

on sunscreen and wear a hat.

HAVE SOMEONE ELSE COOK!

Some customers arrive before dawn

DESIGNATE SOMEONE AS YOUR

Order pizza or eat out. You deserve it

with their flashlights! It’s up to you

MONEY ORGANIZER.

after a day of hard work and putting

how accommodating you are, but be

It’s not good to be pulling out a huge

money into your pocket.

prepared that you may have those who

stack of organized bills or - worse

PICK UP YOUR SIGNAGE.

are wanting to peruse before you open.

yet - an unorganized wad of cash.

Take down your signs after the

BE PREPARED FOR EARLY BIRDS.

day is done.

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3117 Franklin Road Picadilly Square Roanoke 540.904.6743 punchboutique.com


home

Sale-r Tips • Check Craigslist and social media sites for sales to plan out your day. • Be prepared and bring change (bills and coins). • Declutter your car. You never know what you will find and want to haul! • If you are searching for specific things, take a list. Including measurements for furniture items is a plus. • Arrive early, but don’t be rude. Respect what a seller wants. Some will be happy to let you peruse while they unpack and others will not. • It is ok to ask for a lower price. Undercutting someone is a “no-no”, yet asking for a better price - or a discount on multiple items - is normal. Just be polite! If the seller is hesitant, you can always leave them your name and number, and

• Shop with a friend. You may

• Wear your money. I accidentally

not want to take a friend who is

left my wallet at a sale only to

looking for exactly the same items

find it (and my $75) gone when I

as you, yet grabbing coffee and

went back. Disappointing! Wear

heading out with a companion

a cross body purse to keep things

(or a carful of friends!) makes the

close at hand.

experience all the more fun. • Be prepared for split second

• Buyer’s remorse? Just sell the item at your next yard sale.

decisions. If you really want an item and pass it up, chances are it will not be there when you go back. Take your smartphone and text photos of the item to someone for their quick opinion. I’ve even posted “should I, or shouldn’t I” photos on social media for others to weigh in, which at times has helped me decide on the fly!

BIG TIP If you have a smartphone download the “Yard Sale Treasure Map” app, which shows all of the local Craigslist listings. They are mapped out with the ability to click on each sale to show the details. This is a must have app on Saturday morning!

• Be considerate when parking. Don’t block others in, and be careful of the neighbor’s lawns. In

Thanks to it’s FOUND vintage for

some situations, turning on your

sharing their tips. Check them out at

hazard lights is a good idea.

www.itsfoundvintage.com to see their summer sale finds!

they can contact you if they change their mind or don’t sell the item.

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The Embellished Life transforming your bathroom When it comes to purchasing or remodeling a home, we usually pay the closest attention to the areas where we spend a lot of time. Realtors will tell you kitchens - where the family gathers - and baths - our sanctuaries - matter the most. Whether you own a home or are shopping for one, if the bathroom isn’t exactly what you crave, the question of where to start...and what options to choose... can be daunting. We recently caught up with Jarad Hagner, Owner and Co-Founder of MyLuxuryBath.com, to help us understand the process and sort through our options when we’re considering remodeling the bathroom. “Bathroom renovations are typically more ‘need’ than ‘want’ purchases,” Hagner began, though he went on to explain that putting off renovations too long can cause serious problems. Anytime you’re dealing with water, homeowners should be vigilant. “The scary thing about bathrooms is that you may not see the need until it is too late. Water is incredibly destructive,” Hagner warned. Most homeowners, though, tend to renovate for functionality and customization for their own particular needs. No matter the reason for the renovation, the one step in the process that will help ensure you don’t have any regrets is to hire a great designer. Designers will guide you through the process, help you avoid potential pitfalls, and ensure you’re thrilled with the results. The focus of MyLuxuryBath.com is on simplifying the renovation process for homeowners. “The fact is that most renovations are daunting tasks and - rightfully so - terrify consumers,” Hagner explained. “We focus on bathroom transformations… We provide a design consultant to meet in the customer’s home with a large variety of products and solutions.” A designer who takes the time to visit your home and understand your needs is the ideal start.

Photos Provided by MyLuxuryBath.com

When consultants come into a home, they first peruse the current bathroom and then sit down with the clients to discuss what they would like to incorporate into their transformation. Hagner said, “We provide a brief interactive demonstration to better explain who we are, as well as educate about the industry as a whole.”

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Want to save on your own remodel? M ention the code CLUTC H350 to save $350 off of your own bathroom redesig n!


home MyLuxuryBath.com 1220 Main Street These specialists are equipped with

Once clients make their selections,

product samples, design suggestions

the MyLuxuryBath.com team will

and expertise to help create a

provide an overview of the project

beautifully finished space. The

along with an exact price estimate.

samples are comprised of a carefully

Then the production team comes

curated selection of products so that

up with a timeframe, letting the

the customer is not overwhelmed

customer know of tentative shipping

with tens of thousands of choices.

– products are ordered directly from

Hagner explained, “We designed our

the factory - and installation dates.

product and service offerings with

The time involved from consultation

the customer in mind, understanding

to finished product varies based on

they don’t design bathrooms on a

the products the customer chooses

daily basis… bringing creativity and

and the amount of work being

common sense to the table is our

done, but customers can expect

specialty.” A skilled designer will

a finished product in 6-8 weeks.

present you with several appealing

The client’s schedule is also taken

choices, rather than overwhelming

into consideration when planning

you with every possibility that exists.

the installation.

Designs are based on color palettes

The installation team reviews the

and textures and also include

project before the work begins and

timeless design trends and selections

also creates a containment area to

for a variety of budgets. Having the

keep the home safe from any dust

consultant into the client’s house

or debris created by the remodeling.

eliminates the need for a pricey

The goal of MyLuxuryBath.com is

showroom and lets the customer

to not only meet but to exceed the

view samples in their own lighting.

client’s expectations, and hiring

A home meeting also allows for a

an experienced, well-reviewed

bathroom to be designed with that

designer ensures you’ll love your

specific client in mind.

new bathroom.

Lynchburg, VA 24504 www.myluxurybath.com 855-755-4887

MyLuxuryBath.com services Virginia and West Virginia, although Hagner selected Lynchburg for the corporate headquarters. “I chose Main Street in Lynchburg because I love the history and architecture as well as the people,” Hagner said. “We believe in doing our part to make our community a better place to live and work.” Though you can work with designers affiliated with national companies, it’s good for the community to seek out a designer who lives and works in your area.

When Jennifer Prince isn’t writing, she can be found enjoying the outdoors or relaxing in her own bath at home.

Cut Lines: This is where your artwork will be trimmed Safety: All text must be kept within the blue line

1/3 Page Ad

Trim size: 3.875in x 7.25in | Size including bleeds: 3.625in x 7in

Photo by Alina Thomas Photography at Sierra Vista

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CRUNCHY LIVING compost, let me break it down for you Compost. If you are a gardener, you are probably already enjoying the benefits of composting, but this activity is a hobby for many - even those who don’t consider themselves gardeners. After all, it’s important to reduce waste, and composting is a great way to keep that trash can a little lighter. Not sure how to begin composting? We’ll get you started with the basics! Choose a container and a location. There are many different containers to choose from when deciding where to put your compostables, but the basic principle is pretty simple. You need a place to put your raw materials, and you need to make sure air can circulate through the pile. Your compost pile needs air so the microbes that do the work of breaking debris down can thrive. Compost is all about keeping those microbes happy, and air can be circulated by regularly turning your pile. Most people turn their compost with a shovel, which is old fashioned but easy. There are fancy compost bins that look like barrels with a crank on the side, so you can just give it a turn, in no time at all, without the labor of shoveling. This makes composting

Photos by Azalea Smith

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home accessible even for people with

It’s easy to tell if you need more

physical limitations.

browns. As your bin fills up with

Not sure where to begin with filling

greens, especially if the weather’s

your compost bin? Here is a guide to

been wet, then your compost pile will

what makes for great fillers to keep

get stinky and maybe even slimy. You

the microbes happy and working.

The stripped-down opposite would be simply making a pile on the ground. Yes, composting can be that easy, but compost attracts bugs and animals that eat scraps, which in turn can attract critters that eat little animals and bugs - think snakes and raccoons. Over at The Hill City Homestead, where I reside and do my urban homesteading, we have chickens. Raccoons eat chickens and can be very clever about getting into a coop or a compost bin, so I’ve chosen a covered compost bin, rather than a simple compost pile. My setup is basically a big plastic square, open to the ground on the bottom, with holes for aeration, and a lid on top. If you are going for a similar compost bin, make

need browns and a good aeration by turning the compost to mix those browns in! A compost pile should not be slimy or have an unpleasant odor.

GREENS

It should smell earthy and have the

Vegetable Scraps

moisture content of a damp sponge.

Carrot Tops

The avid composter will eventually

Potato Peels

get to the point of needing more

Green Grass Clippings

than one compost bin or pile. Once the pile has reached roughly three to four feet in height and you’ve got a good balance of greens and browns, then it’s time to just let that pile rest

Manure (from vegetarian animals such as rabbits, chickens, cows, goats, or sheep) Coffee Grounds

and start on another pile. Extreme composters might even get up to three piles.

BROWNS Dry Fall Leaves

sure it’s big enough. The bigger your

Wait until your compost is ready

compost pile, the faster it breaks down.

for use. Your compost is finished

Tiny Twigs

breaking down once it looks like

Wood Shavings

rich black dirt. Some gardeners refer

Saw Dust

You can shop for a variety of compost bins online or at your local home and garden store, or you can do something as simple as piling compostables up and building a structure from wood and wire to keep the debris from scattering. Such an enclosure is also good for keeping pets and children out. Pay attention to what you include in your compost pile. You’ll need to strike a balance in your pile to create the earthy-smelling, glorious compost that looks like dirt and makes your tomatoes grow tall. There are carbon-rich scraps which in the composting community are called “browns.” There are also nitrogenrich scraps which are referred to as “greens.” Your kitchen scraps are going to be greens and your dry fall leaves are going to be browns. In general, you’ll need more browns than greens in your pile.

to compost as “black gold,” which will make your vegetable and flower garden soar to new heights. Mix a few shovels full into your garden

Coffee Filters Paper Cardboard

bed before planting, or do a little top dressing or mulching away from the stem of your plant after your garden is established.

Azalea blogs about her crunchy lifestyle at waycrunchy.com, and she enjoys motherhood, all things natural and bright colors.

Warning: Composting may be addictive. You might find yourself carefully planning out the balance of greens versus browns. You might start collecting leaves and kitchen scraps from friends and family to help your compost pile grow bigger and start breaking everything down faster. You might even start to wonder what else you can compost. Can I compost hair? What about feathers, or birthday cards? A birthday card is carbon based, so it’s a brown, right? Once you start transforming trash into black gold, you won’t want to stop!

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DI-WHY NOT?

ROPE WORD ART

My niece – who loves to dance more than anything else in the world – recently had a birthday. I wanted to design something special for her room, and this rope word art came to mind. This project can be customized for any word that fits your personality or interests. You could spell out a name or an inspirational message, such as “imagine” or “dream.” No matter what you choose, this is a fun, easy project with high impact.

Photos by Paula Skulina

MATERIALS board cut to the length you desire, and stained or painted 1/4” sisal rope brads – I used 17 x 7/8”. hammer utility knife printout of your word in a cursive font sawtooth picture hanger, or eye hooks and picture-hanging wire

PROCEDURE Examine the cursive printout of the word, and decide the approximate placement of each letter. Nail the rope to the board where the first letter begins. Using the printout as a guide, bend the rope to form each letter. Nail the rope into place as you work. Cut the rope with a utility knife where a letter ends or where needed to form a letter. After the word has been formed, trim fraying pieces of rope with scissors. Add a picture hanger to the back of board. Hang and enjoy! Paula Skulina is a teacher by day and in her free time enjoys biking, decorating and cooking. Visit her DIY filled blog at www.virginiasweetpea.com.


APRIL SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Photo by Lindsey Patkos

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Cat on a Hot Tin Roof 2-4pm Enjoy a show at Appomattox Courthouse Theatre.

24

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Free Yoga for the People 7:30-8:30am Get your morning started at the Roanoke Public Library.

25

Sunday Art Market 11am-4pm Enjoy a selection of art at Roanoke’s City Market Building.

20

Garden Day Roanoke 10am-5pm Experience spring indoors and out.

21

Huey Lewis & the News 7pm Rock with this fun group at Elmwood Park.

CASA Ladies’ Night Out 5pm-9pm Shop for shoes and more at this fundraiser in Lynchburg.

22

23

Kiss Me Kate 7:30-10pm Have fun at a classic musical.

Lynchstock 11am-11pm Head to Benjamin’s Restaurant for this local music festival.

26

27

28

29

30

Garden Day Lynchburg 10am-5pm Enjoy a day of roaming lovely gardens and homes.

Green Market Wednesday 10am-2pm Shop at the Lynchburg Community Market.

The Fantasticks 7-9pm Take in a show at the Academy in Lynchburg.

Plein Air Painting 8am-5pm Enjoy 3 days of open air painting and events.

Vinton Dogwood Festival 8:30am-11pm Have fun at this festival and parade!

30

For more information check out these websites:

Vintage Lynchburg

17th: appomattoxcourthousetheatre.org 18th: freeyogaforthepeople.weebly.com 20th: atwproductions.com 21st: casalno.com 22nd: ecglasstheatre.org 23rd: lynchstockmusicfestival.com 24th: citymarketbuilding.com

25th: vagardenweek.org 26th: vagardenweek.org 27th: lynchburgcommunitymarket.com 28th: academyfinearts.com 29th: lynchburgartclub.org 30th: vintondogwoodfestival.org 30th: vintagelynchburg.com

10am-5pm Attend this market filled with vintage and handmade things along with our vintage fashion show.

K6675

The Area’s Largest Selection of Furniture & Mattresses

ROANOKE

At Valley View Mall (540) 563-2070

ROANOKE

Open Every Day

Across from Tanglewood (540) 774-7004

www.grandhomefurnishings.com

LYNCHBURG

5401 Fort Avenue (434) 239-5900

19


MAY SUNDAY 1 Mother/Daughter Tea 2-4pm Head to Point of Honor for this fun event.

8 Happy Mother’s Day!! Mother’s Day Tea at Avoca Museum 1:30-4:30pm

15 Fellowship Sunday 5-9pm Enjoy 4 hours of fun at Putt Putt in Lynchburg.

22

MONDAY 2

TUESDAY 3

Hillcats Game 6:30-9pm Take the family out for baseball!

8

Happy Father’s 9 Day!

Happy Mother's Day!

16

WEDNESDAY 4

Tuesday Tales 4pm Head to Imagination Station in Roanoke for story time.

10

Green Market Wednesday 10am-2pm Experience Lynchburg’s Community Market.

11

Salem Red Sox 7:05pm Enjoy a game with the family.

17

18

24

29

30

31

Patrick Henry’s 280th Birthday Party 9am-5pm Celebrate at Red Hill.

Remembering Their Sacrifice 11am Pay respects at the D-Day Memorial.

Henry V 7:30-10pm See Shakespeare at LU.

1st: pointofhonor.org 2nd: lynchburg-hillcats.com 3rd: imaginationstationroanoke.blogspot.com 4th: lynchburgcommunitymarket.com 5th: academyfinearts.com 6th: roanokeartbynight.com

12

19

Art by Night 5-9pm Head to downtown Roanoke’s art galleries.

SATURDAY 7 Antique Rose Festival 9am-2pm Purchase roses at Old City Cemetery.

13

14

Second Friday 5-8pm Check out galleries in downtown Bedford.

Lynchburg Music Festival 12-10pm Head to City Stadium for fun and music!

20

21

Kids’ Night at the Museum 6-10pm Kids 8-12 can experience hands on activities in Lynchburg.

Blue Angels 9am-5pm Head to the Lynchburg Regional Airport for this show!

25

26

27

28

Baby Meet & Greet 11-11:30am Infants have fun on the mat at Amazement Square.

Rapunzel 7pm See this Roanoke Children’s Theatre production.

Chantilly Farm Bluegrass & BBQ Festival 3-11pm Fun in Floyd!

Forest Farmer’s Market 8am-12pm Get fresh foods at this local market.

Photo provided by Old City Cemetery

7

FRIDAY 6

Food Truck Thursdays 11am-2pm Eat lunch in Lynchburg’s Miller Park.

Strawberry Festival 10am-6pm Pick berries at Scott’s Farm in Moneta.

For more information check out these websites:

5 The Fantasticks 7-9pm See this romantic show at the Academy.

Live Irish Music 8-10pm Try out Kegney Brothers in Lynchburg.

Strolling into Art 10:30-11:15am Bring the little ones to Taubman Museum.

23

THURSDAY

Photo by Red Chestnut Photography

8

7th: gravegarden.org 8th: avocamuseum.org 10th: salemsox.com 12th: kegneybrothers.com 13th: centertownbedford.com 14th: lynchburgmusicfestival.com 15th: puttputt.com/lynchburg 18th: taubmanmuseum.org 19th: lynchburgva.gov 20th: lynchburgmuseum.org

21st: lynchburgairshow.com 22nd: facebook.com/Scotts-Strawberry-Farm 25th: amazementsquare.com 26th: roanokechildrenstheatre.org 27th: chantillyfarm.com 28th: forestfarmersmarket.com 29th: redhill.org 30th: dday.org 31st: liberty.edu


JUNE SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY 1 Art by Night 5-9pm Peruse the Wilson Hughes Gallery in Roanoke.

6

5 Lebanese Festival 11am-8pm Roanoke hosts this 18th annual event.

12

D-Day Anniversary 10am-9pm Remember this day at the D-Day Memorial.

7

8

West End Community Market 3-6pm Get local food in Roanoke.

13

15

Pop-Up Art Market 11am-3pm See art in downtown Roanoke.

19

19

Old Time Jam 6-8:30pm Listen to music at the City Market Building.

Lyrics on the Lake Enjoy a songwriter festival until the 19th.

20

21

Happy Father’s Day!

Happy Father's Day!

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

2

3

Little Learners 10:30-11am Bring your toddler to Amazement Square.

9

10

Art Talks 5-6pm Hear from artists at the Academy.

16

18 Evergreen Lavender Festival 11am-5pm Head to this fun festival near Appomattox.

23

24

25

Roanoke Food Tour 11am-2pm Sample and taste downtown.

Star City Motor Madness 4-10pm Enjoy fun centered around cars.

Summer Saturdays in the Cemetery 10-11am Take a tour at Old City Cemetery.

29

30 Buchanan Community Carnival 6:30-11pm Take the family out for this event.

1st: wilsonhughesgallery.com 2nd: amazementsquare.org 3rd: gravegarden.org 4th: littletownplayers.com 5th: lebanesefestival.steliaschurch.org 6th: dday.org 7th: leapforlocalfood.org 8th: facebook.com/ROTJam

11 Artisan Saturday 10am-3pm Shop local work at Explore Park.

22

Salem Fair 4-10pm Enjoy the start of fun festivities!

3

Kid’s Movie Night 7pm Head to Natural Bridge with the family!

4 Guys & Dolls 8pm Have fun at a Little Town Players’ musical.

Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder 8-11pm Hear bluegrass in Rocky Mount.

26

Photo by Helen Yang

Othello 7:30pm Watch Shakespeare at Poplar Forest.

17

Party in Elmwood 5:30-8:30pm Enjoy a music dance party!

Artie Levin Memorial Century 8am Enjoy 100 miles starting in Salem.

National Donut Day 9-11am Stop in for donuts and a tour at Old City Cemetery.

SATURDAY

Photo by Christine Hoggan

18

9th: academyfinearts.com 10th: poplarforest.org 11th: roanokecountyparks.com 12th: facebook.com/ArtMarketRoanoke 15th: lyricsonthelake.com 16th: downtownroanoke.org/explore/elmwoodpark 17th: naturalbridgeva.com 18th: evergreenmusicfestival.com

22nd: harvester-music.com 23rd: roanokefoodtours.com 24th: starcitymotormadness.com 25th: gravegarden.org 26th: bikereg.com/the-artie-levin-memorial-century 29th: fair.salemva.gov 30th: townofbuchanan.com

21


JULY SUNDAY 3

1

MONDAY

4

Salem Fair 12-10pm Take the family for a fun day.

10

Up Front Gallery 10am-5pm The Academy features local art.

2

5

6

1776, the Concert Musical 7-10pm See a show at Poplar Forest.

Happy Independence Day!!

11

Pop-Up Art Market 11am-3pm Enjoy art at the City Market Building.

WEDNESDAY

TUESDAY

12

13

West End Market 3-6pm Head to this Roanoke market.

THURSDAY

7

8

LU Farmers Market 3:30-6pm Explore this market in Lynchburg.

14

10th: facebook.com/ArtMarketRoanoke 11th: academycenter.org 12th: leapforlocalfood.org 13th: lynchburg.edu 15th: visitsmithmountainlake.com 16th: mmzoo.org

圀䔀ᤠ刀䔀

䔀堀倀䄀一䐀䤀一䜀℀

吀䤀䴀䈀䔀刀䰀䄀䬀䔀 䌀䠀刀䤀匀吀䤀䄀一 匀䌀䠀伀伀䰀匀 㐀㌀㐀⸀㈀㌀㜀⸀㔀㤀㐀㌀    簀    眀眀眀⸀琀挀猀㐀甀⸀漀爀最    簀    倀爀攀ⴀ䬀 ⴀ ㄀㈀琀栀 䜀爀愀搀攀

No Shame Theatre 10pm Be a performer at Hollins University.

15 Smith Mountain Lake Pirate Days 9am-9pm Head to this 3 day event.

Maxfield Parrish Exhibit 10am-4pm See book illustrations at Lynchburg College.

For more information check out these websites: 1st: firstfridayslynchburg.org 2nd: poplarforest.org 3rd: fair.salemva.gov 7th: libertydining.com/community 8th: hollins.edu/events 9th: peaksofotterwinery.com

First Friday 5-8pm Take the trolley and see art in FRIDAY Lynchburg.

7

SATURDAY

9 Horse & Hound Festival 11am-6pm Head to the Peaks of Otter Winery for fun.

16 Breakfast with the Animals 8:30-10am Have fun at Mill Mountain Zoo.


life

FLOURISH send unwanted hair away for good

Summer is just around the corner. Time to put away the sweaters and boots and get out the sundresses and bikinis. After months of cold weather, it’s time to get out, enjoy the warmer temperatures and show off your beautiful skin. This is the perfect time to evaluate and remove unwanted hair, a common annoyance many women have to deal with. Traditionally, only three options existed for hair removal: tedious plucking, shaving (who has ever really gotten as smooth as a baby’s bottom?) or painful waxing (seriously… ouch!) Technological advances ushered in

Photo by Bethanne Arthur Photography

a new option: laser hair reduction, one of the top five fastest growing, non-invasive cosmetic procedures in the country. Laser hair reduction is a safe and effective way to eliminate unwanted hair from the face, leg, arm, underarm, bikini line or other areas. The science and technology behind laser hair reduction is interesting. The laser targets stem cells that create hair in the follicle. The laser makes energy pulses, which pass through the skin and are attracted to the hair follicle pigment. The laser uses intense cold air to protect the skin and the laser energy heats the hair follicle to prevent further growth. Individuals see the best results with eight to 10 laser treatments every six weeks. After completing the treatment regimen, ninety percent never see hair growth

Laser hair reduction is safe and easy. Here are some tips to consider before having the procedure: Research the service provider. Make sure you are visiting a center you trust with a licensed aesthetician. The laser should only be operated by a trained professional. Prepare your skin. Limit waxing, plucking or electrolysis and avoid sun exposure six weeks before treatments begin. (Shaving is ok.) Care for your skin. After having laser hair reduction, keep the skin cool, avoid the gym for a day and use aloe for redness or sensitivity. You’ve waited months to slip on those cute summer dresses and swimsuits. Don’t let unwanted hair keep you from showing a little skin.

The benefits of laser hair reduction include: Speed. The laser covers a quarter-sized area every second. For instance, an upper lip treatment takes less than a minute. Safety. Licensed aestheticians perform laser hair reduction. Precision. The laser selectively targets dark coarse hairs while leaving the skin healthy. Finality. In most cases, laser hair reduction eliminates unwanted hair after eight to 10 treatments.

Lisa Turille is a licensed aesthetician with Centra Medical Group Healthy Skin Center, which offers a full line of skin care products and services, including chemical peels, facials, laser hair reduction, microdermabrasion, waxing, manicures and pedicures. For information call 434.200.4247 or visit CentraMedicalGroup/PlasticSurgery.

on the targeted areas. 23


AMOUR BEBE Do talking toys promote language development?

Studies have shown that the key

separately over the course of

pediatrician, what is at the heart

to early learning and language

three days, and each play session

of language development is the s

development for babies is talking -

was recorded.

ocial interaction between the parent

lots of it. So, when you pick up that

When the researchers listened back to

and the child.

talking electronic toy at the store,

the recorded play sessions, it became

“Talking to your child and engaging

you might think you are helping your

apparent that it was not so much

with him is the best way to stimulate

little one develop his language skills,

what they were hearing but more

your baby’s brain and to promote

but are you really? A recent study in

about what they were not hearing.

good language development,” he said.

JAMA Pediatrics took a closer look

When the parent and baby played

“Children look to us for guidance so

to find out if electronic talking toys

with a traditional toy, the researchers

they are significantly more receptive

that are marketed as early language

heard the baby making sounds and

to us than a talking toy.”

promoters were truly helping or if

the parent talking, but when they

they were just a hindrance.

played with an electronic toy, all the

The study focused on 24 babies

researchers heard was the toy.

between the ages of 10 and 16 months

So, does that affect the baby’s

old. Parents were given traditional

early language skills? Yes,

toys such as books, shape sorters and

because early language

stacking blocks, as well as electronic

development is not just

talking toys, including a baby cell

about hearing words.

phone, a baby laptop and a talking

According to John E. Moore,

farm toy. Each toy was played with

M.D., a Carilion Clinic

Photo by Alina Thomas Photography


life “The study reinforces what

In the study, researchers found overall that books were far superior when it came to promoting parent/child interaction, but more traditional toys like blocks, shape sorters and puzzle type games also stimulated much more back-andforth conversation between the parent and baby than any of the electronic toys. Dr. Moore encourages parents to go for books and the simplest toys such as those mentioned in the study (blocks, puzzles, shape sorters), but he also stresses that it is about

To promote language and early learning skills, the prescription is pretty simple: Talk and play! Read a book and explore the power of language by showing your baby what words mean, how things sound and help baby make the connection between the words, sounds and objects in the books. Give your baby a play-by-play of what you are doing with him at that moment. For example, as you get your son dressed in the morning or as you feed him his dinner talk about what you are doing.

engagement between the parent and the child and not really the toy. “There is simply no substitute for interacting with your child,” he noted. “The more we can play with our children–talk to them and engage

Put the smart phone away and get down on the floor with your baby and play together. Pick the toys that engage both of you and promote a lot of back-and-forth interaction and conversation.

pediatricians have been telling parents and what parents intuitively know already–that we are the best teachers for our children,” said Dr. Moore. “Talking toys and electronics have a role, but they cannot replace parent/child interaction.”

If you have concerns or questions about your baby’s language development, ask your pediatrician for more tips and information. Stephanie Specht is a writer and web editor of Carilion Clinic Living. Most weekends you can find her outside with her son, husband and three dogs.

them–the better off they will be.”

dressing girls of all ages gladiolagirls.com / open daily until 6 Main Street, Lynchburg

25


Women of a Certain Age PRINTING YOUR OWN BOOK

and gave each of his siblings a copy on CD. It was a thoughtful gift, but the only way to view the photos was with a computer or TV.

If you’re like me, you have shoe

us have continued to print photos

boxes of old photos that stopped

and are into scrapbooking in a big

Now, you can make your own

accumulating about 10 years ago,

way. Scrapbooking is way beyond a

hardcover book about nearly

and now you have a computer full of

simple photo album. If you’re not

anything - pictures, recipes, poems

digital photos, many of which have

familiar with it, you take printed

- it doesn’t have be just photos and

never been printed. I have friends

photos, cut patterns along the edge or

captions. Books are a great way to

who complain the only way they can

cut them into different shapes (think

remember a special occasion such

see pictures of their grandchildren is

heart-shaped wedding photos), then use

as a wedding, family reunion, Bar

to join Facebook. Even then, virtual

colorful or patterned backgrounds and

Mitzvah, or First Communion. How

image access just isn’t the same as

cute decorations, and mount them in

about a book about a company and

a tangible photograph. Showing

archival quality, acid-free photo albums.

its workers as a retirement gift?

pictures of your grandchildren on a

Then there’s the rest of us. I live and

phone is not the same as trotting out

die by my computers. But I’d love to

a stack of photos or a photo album to

see and share some of those photos

show your co-workers and friends.

again. At one time, my husband

The possibilities are endless. You can

Some of the more enterprising among

scanned in nearly 3,000 family photos

make a yearbook for a homeschooler

26

Do you still have great-grandma’s hand-written Italian cookie recipes? Transform them into a book.


life Photo by KerrisaJoelle Photography

Here is a sampling of companies that will help make your book look amazing: Solentro allows you to create your book online. No photos to go with your poems? No problem; you can select photos from their site. They offer paperbacks, starting at around $5.00 for a 24-page book, soft-cover and spiral bound, all the way up to large (8” x 11” portrait or landscape) books starting at around $50 for a 28-page book. Go to solentro.com. Artisan State offers “layflat” photo books; the pages are like a child’s board book and photos can spread across two pages for a seamless print. Prices start at $25 for a 20-page 6” x 6” book. They make excellent wedding photo albums or board books for small children. Artisan State offers a variety of book covers in paper, fabric, leather, and glitter. Go to artisanstate.com. Shutterfly allows you to create photo books yourself online (which saves you money), or will arrange your pictures for you in preset backgrounds and layouts. They offer five sizes, starting at around $13.00. They also offer “layflat” books. Go to shutterfly.com. Blurb offers five different sizes, five photo-quality papers, and three cover types, starting at $12.99 each for a 20-page book. You can make a 7" x 7" Facebook book or Instagram book of your posts or publish your first novel. How about a book of blog posts or articles you’ve

for yourself, or for people who shared an experience. Those books cost $12.99 for 60 pages. Go to blurb.com.

written, or a sampling of artwork or

MySocialBook offers a snapshot of your Facebook or Instagram

photographs for a job interview? A

account in a nicely bound book. Prices start at $13.90 for an 8” x

family history, complete with photos

10”, 25-page glossy softcover book. A friend recently got a 126-page

and a genealogical chart would make

book for about $40. She said she uses it for journaling purposes

a great gift for family members. How

because she rarely has time to write anymore. Hey, if dementia is in

about a story book for a young child

my future, a book of my friends and family might come in handy.

with photos of family members who

How about a book about your kids for your parents? Grandma’s

live far away?

own brag book. Go to mysocialbook.com.

If you’re crafty, you can lay out your book and contract with a local or online printer. Some companies request PDFs or JPGs of your files, while some let you create the book on their website, even allowing you to use photos from their image library. If you’d rather someone else

Deirdre Serio has written for newspapers, magazines, technical publications, & marketing writing for several clients. She loves the great outdoors, especially hiking & kayaking.

put it together, there are a number of companies that will do it for you. 27


A SEASON OF LEARNING EDUCATIONAL FUN DURING SUMMER BREAK Do you remember your summers as a child? Those carefree days of sleeping in and not having a worry in the world besides playing and enjoying the longer,

Using the Internet is a fun and engaging way to reinforce learning. Here are a few websites compiled by TCS teacher Carolina Alley.

warmer days? I do! No matter how our children spend their summers, it’s easy for them to while away the days without giving a thought to (eek!) learning.

• ABCya.com is a good website that

Although their brains may take a break, there are some fun ways to sneak

provides fun games to reinforce

in education this summer. Take a peek at advice, tips and activities from

concepts learned at school.

teachers at Timberlake Christian Schools in Forest.

• Prezi.com could be used to create a fun book report, and it helps to

CONTINUED LEARNING IDEAS Make “work” fun and enjoyable... even without your children knowing you’re intentionally doing it! For example, use chalk and write sight words or number sentences on the sidewalk and play just like you would a game of hopscotch. For extra review in math or other subjects, talking through different number problems at the grocery store, driving, etc. are a great (and sneaky!) way of keeping up concepts they have learned, or will learn, during the school year. Don’t let the temptation of summer allow you to ease up on a “school mindset”... always keep it a part of your daily schedule. You CAN do it! We (as teachers) are cheering you on! Pam McFadden, first grade teacher at TCS

Take about 20 minutes each day to sit and read together. Younger elementary students will really benefit from hearing their parents read, and it is also a way to spend time together. Having the child read aloud is beneficial as well. Another tip for all elementary ages would be to practice math facts. Try to make it fun for them by playing a game or using something out of the box. Pinterest and many other sites are great resources if you aren’t the creative type. Rachel Scott, second grade teacher at TCS

28

We do “Alley School of Learning”, where our boys do the following every day: 3-5 math problems, 20 minutes of reading,

practice communicating an idea clearly and concisely. • Quizlet.com is good for any grade.

and 20 minutes of piano practice. All of

Students can review concepts they

this has to be done before they can enjoy

learned the previous year.

screen time. You can create your own

• Kahoot.com is a quiz-creating

“School of Learning”. Pick the subjects you

site. Have your child create a quiz

want to go over, choose 3-5 problems to

game of things they learned last

be solved/answered, and include reading

school year, and have your family

a book that your child has selected. Find

take the quiz.

out what your child struggled with during the year, and focus on those concepts. It doesn’t take much for parents to help their children over the summer! Carolina Alley, TCS high school government teacher

• Voicethread.com is where your child can communicate with classmates about things they learned the previous year.


life

Photos provided by TCS

ACTIVITY IDEAS During the summer you can invest in

Write a book.

Go to the library for story time.

experiences. There are two things a

Make something for nursing home residents

Visit local historical sites. Often they have

student can take the opportunity to do

(and deliver your creations to them).

activities where you can experience the

Use plain butcher paper and make wrapping

time period by eating foods, making crafts

paper with stamps and drawings.

and playing games relating to period times.

Make holiday ornaments in the summer

Read daily and keep a log of the books

when you’re not busy and stressed.

that were read.

a class at an art studio, join a sports team

Plant a small garden.

Kim Wall, 4 year old Pre-K teacher at TCS

or rent kayaks and boat down the river.

Have 30 min reading time each day and

- travel or get a job (or both!). Traveling doesn’t have to be overseas - just explore where you live. Try out a new place you haven’t been to before - visit The White Hart, shop at a local outdoor market, take

For older students, getting a job can be about managing finances and saving up for something they would like to buy. They

have them retell what they read to siblings/ act it out.

Looking for a few day

Lynn Ellis, kindergarten teacher at TCS

trips? Why not make these excursions?

will receive invaluable experience about responsibility, hard work, and the benefit

Participate in church youth group events.

• Luray Caverns

of a job well done.

Do some hands-on science experiments

Abby Doherty, TCS elementary and high school Spanish & yearbook teacher

• Blue Ridge Parkway

and demonstrations found on the Internet. Talk about books you are reading with

Have your child read a book and do a

your children.

video book report to show the family.

Find recipes and cook or bake together.

After (or during!) vacation, have the kids

Learn a new craft together.

do a video on what they experienced.

Walk to a restaurant or store.

Read The 'Warrior Series' by Erin Hunter,

Attend sporting events.

which is about a clan of cats that have to

Have a yard sale.

learn to live in peace and the relationships

Marilyn Yates, TCS middle school math and science teacher

that develop along the way.

• Monticello • Poplar Forest • Avoca • Point of Honor compiled by Lynn Ellis and Kim Wall

Carolina Alley

29


PET PONDERINGS itchy, scratchy pets We all scratch - it’s inevitable. Even our pets take the time to cure that nagging spot when necessary, but when you begin to noticing a pattern of scratching, it’s time to look a little closer. If your pets are scratching heavily or frequently or you detect a change in their skin, here are some likely causes of their discomfort.

30

PARASITES

ATOPY OR ATOPIC

GENERAL ITCH TREATMENTS

Fleas are a primary cause of

DERMATITIS

There are veterinary

itch and rash, especially during

Just like a person with hay

dermatologists who can help

summer months (although fleas

fever, pets can have allergies

investigate and diagnose the

can overwinter inside). Animals

too. These may be inhaled or

underlying cause. In many

that are allergic to flea bites can

contact allergens - either indoor

cases of chronic allergy a cure

have severe reactions from just

or outdoor. Atopic dogs will

is unrealistic, but minimizing

a few bites, and you may not

scratch, chew, lick their paws,

flare ups and getting the highest

actually see the fleas if they are

rub their face, or have recurrent

percentage improvement over

ingested or groomed off. Other

ear infections. Allergies may be

time is the goal to keep your pet

parasites include skin mites or

seasonal or all year, depending

comfortable and itch free.

mange, ticks and lice.

on the cause of the allergen.

Areas Typically Affected

Areas Typically Affected

Treatments may include:

Fleas - rump and tail base. Other

Eyes, mouth, ears, armpits,

antihistamines

parasites - one or multiple areas.

abdomen, legs/feet and around

steroids

Diagnosis and Treatment

the rear.

Comb your pet with a flea comb,

Diagnosis and Treatment

or examine the hair coat to look

Response to treatment helps

for flea excrement in the form

the vet know that an underlying

of small black dots. Tests such

allergy exists. Trying to figure

special diets

as a skin scrape and tape prep

out precisely what the allergy is

immunotherapy (allergy shots)

can help determine the cause

can be a diagnostic challenge.

of other parasites. Be sure to

Discuss with your veterinarian

keep your pet on a good flea

options for skin or blood allergy

and tick preventative during

tests that can assist with finding

the summer months.

out the underlying cause(s).

reducing exposure medicated baths topical sprays or protection

oclacitinib (apoquel) cyclosporine (atopica) omega 3 fatty acids


life FOOD ALLERGIES Diagnosis of a food allergy can be complicated as it can

SKIN INFECTION OR PYODERMA

look the same as atopy, although less likely seasonal.

The presence of a skin infection

Often people don’t consider the possibility of a food

can complicate any of the above

allergy if they haven’t recently changed a pet’s diet, but

causes of itching because as

allergies can develop over time. Many pets with food

your pets scratch and chew, they

allergies have been eating the offending food for years

irritate and excoriate the skin,

with no trouble.

which allows bacteria and yeast

Areas Typically Affected Anywhere Diagnosis and Treatment Dermal skin tests can be more accurate than blood

to proliferate and compound the itch. Areas Typically Affected Anywhere

tests, but both can give you some information about

Diagnosis and Treatment

narrowing down the offending ingredients. Do a food

Depending on the severity of the

trial. Use a hypoallergenic diet and discuss which diet

skin infection it may be treated

is best with your vet. Just choosing a grain-free diet is

topically and/or orally, but the

not adequate. Truly hypoallergenic diets either need to

underlying reason for the itch

contain a novel protein source or be a hydrolyzed diet.

should still be sought.

The difficulty in doing a food trial is your pet has to just eat this food and NOTHING else for 10-12 weeks to gauge

Photos by William Mahone Photography

response. One benefit of purchasing a prescription diet from your vet to use in food allergy trials is a 100% guarantee. This means if your pet doesn’t like the food, the food can be returned for a complete refund, even if the bag is opened. Homemade diets can also be set up through the website www.balanceit.com.

Shella Baker is a veterinarian at Lynchburg Humane Society and Peaksview Animal Hospital. She enjoys beekeeping, crafting, gardening and spending time with her family and fur-kids.

Photo: Bella Muse Photography

gifts for mothers and others at... artisan & decor goods for home, self & gifting 115 Salem Ave SE across from the Taubman

tinksplace.com (540)344-2324

TINKS Place LLC

Tues - Thurs 11am - 5pm Fri - Sat 11am - 5:30pm Sun 1pm - 4pm 31


GEEKY GIRL thrifting on a schedule (and a budget!) If you enjoy thrift shopping, you

Clutch readers: I would love to see your thrift store finds! Share photos of your treasures with me and fellow clutch readers on Instagram by following me at @hpgeekygirl, tagging me in your posts, and using the hashtag #geekygirlsthrift and #clutchinspires.

know that there is almost nothing

2. YOU CAN THRIFT SHOP AT “REGULAR” STORES, TOO!

as satisfying as finding a great deal

If you enjoy finding a good deal but

category and denote a fixed amount to

on a fabulous item. Sometimes the

don’t particularly enjoy the thrift

assign to it monthly. If you are more

path to these treasures seems like

store experience, keep in mind that

careful with your money, you will

an archetypal hero’s journey, replete

other stores have seasonal clearance

be more selective – and ultimately

with trials that test your shopping

events. The best clearance events tend

happier – with your purchases.

fortitude. For some of us, the thrill

to start the day after Christmas, but I

of the hunt is a significant part of

like to wait at least a couple of weeks

the fun; we enjoy flitting from store

before I check them out because the

I have shared some practical pointers

to store regardless of the results. For

prices tend to drop even further. For

with you about thrifting, but my final

others, however, the process quickly

instance, stores like Target and Barnes

and most important piece of advice

becomes frustrating if the product

& Noble are on a fixed markdown

is to stay geeky! Thrift shopping is

is lacking, uninspiring, or even

schedule, so it may be worth waiting

far more whimsical than any other

overwhelming. Those of you in the

until 50% off turns into 75% off to

kind of shopping in that it doesn’t

latter camp: never fear! Arm yourself

stock up on books, toys, wrapping

involve a shopping list or coupons,

with these thrifting tips and a cape

paper, boxed Christmas cards, and

and your approach should reflect

(optional), and you too can be a thrift

Christmas crafts.

that difference. Instead of buying

shopping superhero!

something because it seems like a 3. THRIFT FOR EXTRA INCOME

1. STRATEGIZE YOUR TIME

5. SEEK WHAT INSPIRES YOU

decent deal or because you might use

In addition to his full-time job as an

it eventually, allow your particular

Lack of time is likely your kryptonite

engineer, my husband runs his own

passions to guide your path.

when it comes to thrift shopping.

eBay store. This side business has served

Most of us tend to favor certain

If you feel hindered by your tight

as a nice source of extra income for us

sections of thrift stores over others; for

schedule, strategizing is key. I have

and also as a convenient excuse for me

instance, I focus on books, collectibles,

found that certain days and times

to thrift shop even more often! If you

board games, and video games. Some

boast both maximal results and

really enjoy the experience of thrifting

of you may be clothing connoisseurs

minimal (or at least manageable)

and have a knack for finding valuable

or decoration devotees. Regardless of

crowds: early-to-mid Monday

pieces, you can parlay your hobby into

your thrifting preferences, you will

mornings, early Saturday mornings,

a profit while still finding treasures to

find that you get better results while

Sundays at noon, and Friday nights.

keep for yourself and give as gifts.

also saving time and money if you

Many people drop items off over the weekend and tend to be busy with other activities during these times. I occasionally make a trip to Goodwill and similar stores on my lunch break during the week; employees often restock within this window, and I have found some of my favorite items on these quick afternoon runs.

32

stick to what really inspires you. As in 4. DESIGNATE FUNDS If you tend to overspend while thrifting, consider bringing a fixed amount of cash with you and limiting yourself to that amount. You may also want to look into a budgeting plan or software; we swear by the software YNAB, which stands for You Need a Budget. With this and similar programs, you can create a “thrifting”

all areas of life, there is nothing more heroic and rewarding than being true to yourself – not even finding a great deal on a great item. Emily Hedrick is a youth services librarian and enjoys being with her husband and family, singing, and geeking out as often as possible.


Photo by Bryan Hedrick


MY OMBRE LIFE Photos - Karissa Grantham, Vintage Fashions - Out of Twig Jewelry - Little Paper Crane Models – Emily & Michelle

RELIVING A

DE CA DE What do you remember about the 90s?

CD: Britney Spears ...Baby One More

I am loving it. My mom was such a

I love everything about that decade.

Time (with the big flower on the CD).

fashionista (and she still is), and she

See, I’m a late 80s baby who grew up

Britney was so iconic. She was the

always hipped me to all the trends.

in the 90s. I had my first crush, moved

girl-next-door everyone was swooning

I rocked braids, wore my baseball caps

to the United States, saw my first

over. I wanted to be her so badly, and

backwards, and had denim jackets in

movie in theaters (Spice World), and I

the wedge sandals she wore on her

all shades of blue.

went to D.A.R.E. camp - all in the 90s.

first album cover were at the top of

Clearly this decade holds some of my

my wish list.

fondest memories.

Speaking of fashion from the 90s, lots

must try (or simply pull out of the

I still remember getting my first

of trends are making a comeback, and

back of your closet).

There are 90s trends that are fit for anyone, and here are a few that you


style

CROP TOPS This trend has

FLANNEL To me, nothing says

been carried over from season to

grunge like flannel shirts. Flannel

season, and it’s here to stay. Crop tops

shirts are being incorporated more and

are so easy to find. Almost every store

more into your everyday wardrobe. Yes,

has multiple selections (long sleeve,

they’re available in stores, but if you

short sleeve, printed, or lace). Pair them

can’t find the perfect one, grab your

with midi skirts or a high-waist pant.

boyfriend’s. Over-sized, tied or thrown

TOUSLED HAIR

CHOKERS

Remember

the tattoo-version? Yes, they’re

around your waist - go for it! Keep your

styling tools unplugged, girls. Messy,

DENIM, DENIM, DENIM

flowy, tousled hair is back! Simply

As I mentioned earlier, I had several

brush it down, use your fingers

denim jackets when I was younger, and

to create some waves, and keep it

I still have a few stashed away. Over-

controlled with a tiny bit of product.

sized, distressed, or the original with

Rock this “bed head” hair to work

flap pockets on the chest, you must

or date night.

own a denim jacket. Plus, they’re great

back. Chokers have been seen on

DARK LIPSTICK Whether

everyone from runway models to

you choose purple or red, make sure

the Kardashians. And the best part

your choice of color comes in the

is that chokers come in all shapes,

darkest shade. A dark lip gives so

colors and sizes. There are thick and

much edge and really boosts your

thin ones, as well as clear, studded

whole look. There’s no reason not to

and velvet chokers - easy enough to

embrace this trend.

match anything you’re wearing.

for any season So whether you are reliving the decade or trying these trends for the first time, be sure to test out one or all of these throwbacks. Tea Hadzic is a social media expert and fashion stylist. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, cooking and keeping up with the latest fashions.


EASY, BREEZY FASHION

TRENDS FOR SUMMER 2016

Summer brings in easier fashions, and long gone are bulky layers and heavy sweaters. Fresh florals and breezy fabrics are here for a while... and what girl doesn't love to be able to pull a look together easily? For our summer fashion trends, we consulted three local boutiques to find out what to wear to be fashion-forward with ease and comfort. Check out the trends bolded throughout!

>>>>>>>>>> A dominant trend this season is the exposed shoulder. Endlessly versatile, it is paired with another must-have of the season, printed pants. This trend is played up with bold floral patterns consisting of bright citrons and violets. Pairing the blousy top with a more fitted pant creates balance. Citrus colors are everywhere this season, so incorporate them into your wardrobe – even with shoes! This look is perfect for lunch with friends or even a weekend getaway -- comfortable and right on trend. Available at: Punch Boutique


style

>>>>>>>>>> Rose Quartz is a 2016 color of the year according to Pantone, and the hue universally looks good on most skin tones, providing a healthy and youthful glow. One hint is to pick a style, fit and fabric that complements your shape. With so many new fabrics, there is something for everyone! Long necklaces are a new statement piece and often include a tassel or stone and can be worn with many looks. Whether you are heading to church, a wedding or a graduation party, this dress covers all the bases. Available at: Gladiola Girls

<<<<<<<<<< This princess fit and flare top paired with a layering jacket is the perfect solution for curvy women who want something for cooler evenings. This top emphasizes the waist while a flowy, spring layering jacket helps a curvy girl avoid tight sweat shirts and fitted sweaters. The comfort and coverage of this look make it perfect for running errands or shopping with girlfriends before getting lunch. This is a great take on stylish daywear. Available at: Live Trendy or Die

>>>>>>>>>> It's safe to say that navy is the new black for 2016. To update your style, choose a longer hem with a "reveal" - a more feminine option than short skirts and bare legs. Neutral shoes are also key! Kimono style jackets not only provide an anchor to your look but also a silhouette that is updated and chic. These stylish jackets are a great way for those who are “arm conscious� to cover up without looking stuffy. This look is perfect for a brunch date or meeting on the go. Available at: Gladiola Girls


Bring it, Summer. It’ll be HOT, HOT, HOT! It’s that time of year. Time to think about getting ready for strappy sundresses, cute shorts, tank tops and those oh-so-adorable bikinis. You’ve been dieting and exercising, but sometimes those things can only take your body so far. Why not consider a little help along the way? At the Centra Medical Group Plastic Surgery Center, you can take advantage of the latest cosmetic procedures. From Botox® and tummy tucks, to lifts and breast augmentation, we’ve got you covered. Our team of board-certified plastic surgeons has more than 50 years of experience in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery.

Call today and schedule your confidential consultation, 434.200.4246

Every woman has a unique self-image and sense of beauty. During your confidential consultation, your surgeon will discuss options to help achieve your personal goals.

CentraMedicalGroup.com/PlasticSurgery | 1330 Oak Lane, Suite 100 | Lynchburg


style <<<<<<<<<< This patterned dress is perfect for those curvy ladies who get nervous about bright colors. It is one of those rare pieces that has a great fit for a full figured woman. The top of this dress is has great coverage for a large bust and hits the waist in the right spot. The length also makes it a great piece for the church choir or meeting the future in-laws. Because of the neutral coloring, it can be moved through different seasons with the simple addition of a cardigan and accessories. Available at: Live Trendy or Die

>>>>>>>>>> Culottes are a chic alternative to classic tailoring and provide a well structured look that can work just as easily by day or after-hours with statement pumps. Monotone dressing is a great excuse to add bold shoes or a bag to the mix. This free-flowing look also provides more interest than a skirt. A high waist is another trend that elongates the silhouette, which is perfect paired with a more fitted top. Wear this to a cocktail event or dinner date, or trade the tank for a fitted blouse for an office appropriate look. Available at: Punch Boutique

<<<<<<<<<< Too often, curvy styles veer away from trend, however, this dress takes the lace-up style and makes it flattering for full figured women. Its bold print is reminiscent of 1970s fashion, which many curvy gals have been told to shy away from. The fit and flare style of this dress allows it to flow, flattering her figure. It would be great in a minimalist or capsule closet because accessories make it so versatile. Wear this as a date night or brunch dress, or pair it with flats for classes or a client meeting. Available at: Live Trendy or Die


<<<<<<<<<< Classic stripes are getting an update this season in a wide variety of high-octane colors. Whether you reach for fun dresses or knit tanks to pair with your favorite denim, brighten up your wardrobe with bold stripes. This dress has lines that flatter and provide a pop of needed color, perfectly accented with a neutral flat. Diagonal stripes bring structure to this classic shift dress. This is perfect for a socialite's day out in the sun - be it a graduation, steeplechase or an afternoon wedding. Available at: Punch Boutique CRAVING MORE? Be sure to head to our three local boutiques, and remember to shop local. Gladiola Girls | www.gladiolagirls.com 1210 Main Street, Lynchburg Live Trendy or Die | www.livetrendyordie.com 1101 B Church Street, Lynchburg Punch Boutique | www.punchboutique.com 117 Franklin Rd SW #6, Roanoke

Photo Shoot Team: • Boutiques - Gladiola Girls (Lynchburg), Live Trendy or Die (Lynchburg) and Punch Boutique (Roanoke) • Concept - Jennifer Prince • Location - English Meadows, Elks Home Campus • Makeup - Makeup by Melinda • Models - Brittney (Gladiola Girls), Erin (Live Trendy or Die) and Whitney (Punch Boutique) • Photography - Amanda Isidro • Special thanks goes out to Little Town Players for the use of their dressing rooms.

>>>>>>>>>> Crop denim is everywhere, and it is perfect for wearing with many different styles of footwear. Just make sure the fit and color are flattering for your figure. Quality denim is well worth the investment of time and money. These crops will also work in the fall under tall boots. For your little one, this playful, updated sailor dress is always a hit. For the woman on the go, add a pop of color with accessories - add a scarf to your handbag for a real statement! This duo is ready for shopping, a playdate or a trip to a local museum. Available at: Gladiola Girls

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Visit us in our new Forest location! Graves Mill Shopping Center M-F 10am-5:30pm, Sa 10am-2pm www.alpacabyjaca.com (434) 942-4005 alpacabyjaca4u.blogspot.com


Are behavioral changes a sign of bullying?

Get the answer to this and many other health questions from Carilion Clinic Living’s Fact Check, hosted by Karen McNew. A new video is posted every Friday, so you’ll never have to wait long to find out what’s myth and what’s good medicine.

CARILIONLIVING.COM/FACTCHECK


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