Thrive's December 2019 Issue by Thrive Magazine

DECEMBER 2019

wintenr gs

i d d e W

Special Sections:

PHILANTHROPY MADE EASY

Give the Gift of Experience SHOP

LOCAL this Holiday Season!

first person with Santa

(aka Bob Nordan)

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Rehabilitation Hospital

of Jennings

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• Neurological Disorders

• Burns

• Spinal Cord Injury

• Major Multiple Trauma

• Congenital Deformities

• Rheumatoid Arthritis

• Systemic Vasculidities

• Joint Replacements

Others who can benefit from inpatient rehabilitation are postoperative patients, accident victims and cancer patients. 24 Hour Nursing Care • Physical Therapy • Occupational Therapy Speech Therapy • Nutritional Counseling and Monitoring Case Management Call for a free assessment today. One Hospital Drive, Ste. 101 • Jennings, LA 70546 • Phone: (337) 821-5353 • Fax: (337) 821-5355 or 5366 jenningsrehab@yahoo.com • www.jenningsrehab.com 2

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • December 2019

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rG u o ,y t as g er d n Pe

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Contents

Regular Features

In This Issue Wining & Dining

6 Holiday Traditions from the Kitchen 8 The Captain's Table 10 Spread Some Cheer with Holiday Spirits

Mind & Body

29 46 66 67

Business Buzz Who’s News Happenings Solutions for Life

12 Waist Management over the Holidays 14 Let the Light in: Dealing with SAD 16 Grieving During the Holidays

Money & Career 18-24

SPECIAL SECTION:

first person

Places & Faces 30-44

PHILANTHROPY Made Easy

with Santa

(aka Bob Nordan)

Cover SECTION:

winter dings

ed W Style & Beauty

48 Wear it Out 50 MAYLEA: New Arrival at Prien Lake Mall 52 Defending your Skin against Cold Weather

Home & Family

54 58 60 64

Gift Guide: The Gift of Experience Shop Local Celebrate Mardi Gras on the Ski Slopes of Colorado Who's Minding the Kids? Tips for Choosing a Great Sitter

@thriveswla | thriveswla.com Thrive is designed for people focused on living a happy, healthy life, one that is balanced, full of energy and contentment. Thrive readers want to make the most of every day and to be successful in all areas of their lives – family, health, home and career. Submitted articles and photos are welcome. Thrive assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials and does not guarantee any submissions. 4

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • December 2019

48 Managing Editor Angie Kay Dilmore Editors and Publishers Kristy Como Armand Christine Fisher Creative Director Barbara VanGossen Design and Layout Sarah Bercier Business Manager Katie McDaniel Stevenson Advertising Sales katie@thriveswla.com 337.310.2099 Submissions edit@thriveswla.com

“Avail got it right the first time.” Savanna Tommasi Full-time busy mom

Savanna Tommasi had been suffering from a recurring health issue, and when another hospital she turned to had her waiting for hours to be seen, she knew it was time for a change. So, the next time she needed help, she turned to Avail Hospital. “I went to Avail because I knew I would be seen right away – and I was. I was also hoping for better results and a more thorough examination, and that’s exactly what I got. Avail did a complete work-up and ran the right tests the first time.”

“They were patient, thorough, and kind.” At Avail Hospital, our patients are seen within five minutes of arrival. But don’t take our word for it; ask a friend like Savanna who has been here.

337.656.7700 | AvailHospitals.com | 3730 Nelson Rd. | Lake Charles

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Wining & Dining

T r y a a d d i i t l ions o H from the Kitchen by Chad Jackson

The magic of the holiday season changes over the course of our lives. We transition from kids with sugar plums dancing in our heads to parents handling the “some assembly required” part of Christmas. Gifts, travel, planning, family and office gatherings, white elephants, ugly sweater contests, elves on shelves…it can all become rather stressful. Some of our stress centers on food and meals we hope will delight our family and friends. It is a challenge to blend tradition, new guests, changing dietary needs, and the latest food trends. Add some spice and excitement to a traditional family dish by spinning it with a personalized signature touch. We hear it every year; “Are those Uncle Frank’s sweet potatoes?” Or, “Oh yeah, that is Aunt Fannette’s carrot soufflé.” With some thought, and trial and error, our ‘lil kitchen discoveries can often take us to legendary culinary heights. These two recipes are game changers because of ease of execution. More importantly, they are time tested, wickedly awesome, result-getters designed to never disappoint. These are dishes you can make ahead and bring with you to thank your host. They’re also recipes your kids will love to help create. The sooner we show our children the basic moves in the kitchen, the sooner we have sous chefs that understand a prep list. So, let’s grab some ingredients, pots and pans, preheat the oven, and get this holiday party started…and before too long we’ll turn around and it’ll be our names attached to their most precious heirlooms – family recipes!

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • December 2019

Mama Jackson’s Banana Bread

Ingredients: 1¾ C flour 2 tsp baking powder ¼ tsp baking soda ½ tsp salt 1/3 C shortening 2/3 C sugar 2 eggs, beaten 1 C mashed, overripe banana ½ C chopped walnuts

Method: First, make sure your bananas are properly overripe. If you have some bananas about at that point but you aren’t ready to make bread, you can freeze them until you’re ready. When it’s go time, preheat oven to 350. Sift together flour, baking soda, powder and salt. Whip shortening until smooth and creamy. Add in sugar slowly, beating until fluffy. Blend in eggs. Add flour and bananas alternately, beating in between to keep smooth. Fold in nuts. Bake in a greased bread pan for an hour and fifteen minutes.

Mimi’s

C h o c o l at e C r e a m W a f e r s with blackberry port drizzle

This classic dessert is a family holiday favorite! The chocolate wafers Nabisco makes tend to break, so buy extra. You can only use whole wafers.

Ingredients:

F i n a l a s s e m b ly:

Chocolate cookie wafers. You will need enough to make 12 stacks of four cookies each (48 total wafers). 2 quarts heavy cream 2 vanilla pods, sliced length wise, gutted, and insides saved for recipe 1.5 C sugar

Starting with a cookie on the bottom, alternately layer wafers and cream until four cookies are stacked. Make 12 stacks of four cookies each.

Ingredients for blackberry port love: 4 pints blackberries 2 C port 2 C water 1 C sugar

Method: Whip all ingredients until cream is sturdy but soft. The colder everything is the better the process works. Put cream in piping bag and refrigerate. Boil berries in water with sugar for 30 min. Puree and pass through fine mesh strainer to remove seeds.

Place in a deep dish or pan and cover with parchment and plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 8 hrs. When you remove them, put a dollop of cream on top and drizzle blackberry port love. Throw in a portsoaked blackberry as a garnish and it’s life changing! Chef Chad Jackson is a graduate of the California Culinary Academy and has been the head chef at many of Lake Charles finest dining establishments. Now as the culinary brain of The Tailgate Kings, he’s looking to create some unique spins on classic tailgate foods. You can find other TK creations at www.thetailgatekings.com, or head over to their Facebook page, Instagram, or Twitter to get all the updates.

Reduce port by half, cool, and add the berry sauce to form your drizzle.

Cool, cut, and serve.

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Wining & Dining

The Captain’s Table New Seafood Restaurant Tosses Anchor into the Lake Area Dining Scene by Matt Dye

In the ashes of what many remember as the old Dairy Barn has arisen a phoenix which is The Captain’s Table; a new riff on an old idea. And behind every great idea, there’s an architect and guiding light; in this case, that’s David LeJeune. When asked if there is any connection to the previous Captain’s Table, LeJeune and executive head chef Charles Broussard chuckle for a second. “We took it from them,” LeJeune says with a coy smile. “I was too young [to go to the original]. People kept saying that we need a ‘Captain’s Table’, that we need an oyster bar, so I said, ‘why not?’” Opened in late October of this year, one thing that Chef Broussard emphasizes is the quality of the food they serve. “When David asked us to start this, one of the first things we discussed was that everything be fresh. We want our mom and pop place to have our local food from our local people off the Gulf that we should thrive from. It comes in Tuesday and it comes in Thursday, and we use every bit of it. The only thing we keep in our freezer is the liquor for the bar, ice cream, and ice.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • December 2019

That said, the oysters showcased at The Captain’s Table are wild caught Gulf oysters from Big Lake, done up in a variety of ways. You’ll be familiar with the more traditional Rockefeller or Bienville, but they also grill them, the most unique being the Poseidon or the El Diablo, which incorporates a jalapeno chow-chow. Besides the craftsmanship on the oysters, the menu boasts other seafood staples such as shrimp and catfish, as well as a variety of burgers and chicken dishes for the non-seafood lovers. But there are a couple other dishes besides the oysters that The Captain’s Table does well. Their crab cakes are quite impressive and reasonably priced. Of course, you can’t be in Louisiana and not do gumbo. Chef Broussard’s gumbo has the rich distinctness you’d expect from a great gumbo. While it doesn’t reinvent the wheel, it goes down smoothly and is accented by Broussard’s secret chicken/vegetable/who knows stock. The restaurant itself has a fairly wideopen layout with tables spaced enough that you won’t feel like you’re rubbing elbows with the family next to you.

If you’d been to the old Dairy Barn, much of the downstairs is relatively the same. The big changes come to the second floor and the added deck. For the 21 and over set, the upstairs now houses an attractive bar that opens up to the second story deck and is what LeJeune hopes will be a perfect hang out spot for drinks and oysters. Added amenities like phone charges and purse hooks show an attention to detail that other places miss. But that attention to detail is what LeJeune hopes will make this place a success. “Just remember,” he says, “Great food takes time.” Located at 1016 E. Prien Lake Road, The Captain’s Table is open Mondays-Wed 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m., Thursday 11:00a.m. – 9:00 p.m., and Friday/Saturday 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Sundays TBA.

WE ARE PHILLIPS 66. Phillips 66 is proud to partner with the communities we operate in. We have developed long-lasting relationships with many worthy causes in this community, focused on literacy & education, safety & preparedness, and environment & sustainability.

□ $649,000+ in contributions to the United Way of Southwest Louisiana □ Partner in Education with 4 Calcasieu Parish Schools □ More than 4,000 volunteer hours in our community

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Wining & Dining

Spread some Cheer with

Holiday Spirits! by Kristian Bland

The holidays mean different things to different people. For families, it’s a season of magic mixed with childhood wonder. For adults of legal drinking age (with or without kids), it can be about all those things . . . plus a little alcohol.

ere in Lake Charles, we have plenty of options to help spice up your next holiday party. To kick things off, the good folks over at Crying Eagle Brewery have several great choices to fit almost any palate. This year, Crying Eagle has added two heaping spoonfuls of holiday cheer to their flagship Belgian-style single, Ready to Mingle. They call it Ready to Jingle, which takes the unique character and richness you expect from their most popular brew and adds the distinctive seasonal flavors of cloves,

cinnamon, orange peel, nutmeg, and ginger. Basically, it’s Christmas on tap. They’re also doing a Winter Saison, but apart from Ready to Jingle, the real star of their holiday lineup this year is the Box of Chocolates. Working together with other Lake Area businesses, the Box of Chocolates is a variety of milk stouts that includes Cafe au Lait Milk Stout with the help of Acadiana Coffee Roasters, Mexican Hot Chocolate Milk Stout in partnership with Boombox Frozen Treats, Chocolate Covered Pretzel Milk Stout in

YELLOWFIN OTORO PECAN PIE BOOZY MILKSHAKES

by James Wyatt @bartenders_on_wheels

This recipe makes 3

• • • •

Add 1oz. Hershey’s Caramel to a glass and set to side In a blender, add 1 tbsp cinnamon, ½ cup sugar, 6 oz. Yellowfin Otoro Single Estate Vodka, 1oz. Godiva liqueur, 1/4th of your favorite pecan pie and 1.5 pints of your favorite vanilla ice cream Blend and pour into 3 glasses Top with whipped cream, cinnamon/sugar, pecan pie pieces, caramel drizzle and a cherry

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • December 2019

collaboration with Helen Street Bakehouse, and a Chai Milk Stout, which alone more or less makes Crying Eagle the Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory of breweries. These beers are draft only and taproom exclusive, but growlers or crowlers can be purchased to take home. Interested in a big bowl of holiday punch or some festive cocktails for your party? You might want to stock up on varieties of Bayou Rum and Yellowfin Vodka.

THE CRANRAZ-TINI MADE WITH YELLOWFIN OTORO

by Sabrina Newell @loulousucre

• • • • •

3 raspberries, soaked in 1 oz. lemon juice and rolled in 1 tsp sugar 2 ½ oz. cranberry juice 2 oz. Yellowfin Otoro Single Estate Vodka 1 oz. Lillet Rose ½ oz. lemon juice

Muddle the raspberries in the bottom of a shaker, add the remaining ingredients. Fill the shaker with ice. Shake vigorously and pour into a chilled martini glass rimmed with lemon juice and sugar. Garnish with a long lemon peel shaped into a bow.

FROM BAYOU RUM: WHITE CHOCOLATE PEPPERMINT MARTINI Recipe:

• • • • •

1 oz. White Rum ¾ oz. Gator Bite Coffee ½ oz. peppermint simple syrup ½ oz. white chocolate syrup 3 oz. half & half or egg nog

Shake over ice, strain and serve in a martini glass. Add a dusting of cinnamon to the top for that festive spirit!

New Brewpub Coming to Lake Charles

Plans for the proposed Crying Eagle Lakefront Restaurant and Microbrewery were recently announced at the proposed site location immediately west of the Lakefront parking garage on N. Lakeshore Dr. “Crying Eagle, at its current location, has been wildly successful at creating a gathering space for nearly 60,000 people each year,” said Lake Charles Mayor Nicholas Hunter. “These patrons are not only local residents, but also tourists, drawing both in-state and out-of-state visitors. The Avery family has a proven track record of success in this community. We are excited to work with them on the development of their full-service restaurant on the Lakefront.” The proposed project will consist of a family-friendly, full-service restaurant, small brew house to service the restaurant, covered patio, rooftop seating, and an open courtyard. The modern façade will create an attractive and alluring first impression for motorists traveling on Interstate 10 through Lake Charles. “Since its opening Crying Eagle has served as a community hub and gathering space for many,” said Eric Avery, President and Co-Founder of Crying Eagle Brewing. “It’s a source of identity and pride for our community as it has become an epicenter of arts, culture, and entertainment for the entire family. This is something we are committed to carrying over to Crying Eagle’s Lakefront location” Pending the outcome of Lake Charles City Council approval, construction on the restaurant could begin as early as next summer with a target completion date of spring 2021.

Gift Certificates Available

THEVILLAHARLEQUIN.com 324 Pujo St. | 436-6251 thriveswla.com

Mind & Body

WAIST MANAGEMENT

Over the Holidays by Angie Kay Dilmore

According to a study in The New England Journal of Medicine, the average person gains approximately one to two pounds over the holiday season. That doesn’t sound so bad, but the problem comes when that weight makes itself a permanent fixture in your body. The study says it can take up to five months to lose the weight gained during Thanksgiving and Christmas, or worse yet, that the gain is never shed, which can be a big problem over time. Two pounds times ten years equals twenty pounds!

The best advice is to not gain the weight in the first place, which we know is easier said than done. But not impossible. We offer a few tips to keep the scale from budging this holiday season:

KNOW YOUR TRIGGERS AND WEAKNESSES.

If sugary desserts are your downfall, don’t bring a pecan pie to the potluck. Is savory and salty your snack of choice? Keep them out of the house to decrease temptation.

PLAN AHEAD.

If you know you are headed to the office party after work, eat a sensible nutritious breakfast and lunch. If you’re tempted by tantalizing party treats (and who isn’t?) eat a healthy snack before you arrive at the event so you’re not famished. If you don’t have an appetite, you’re less likely to overeat.

DON’T TOTALLY DEPRIVE YOURSELF.

Saying no to that cookie you’re craving only prompts obsession and overeating later. So, go ahead and have a slice of pie or a piece of cake. But not both. 12

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • December 2019

BE MINDFUL OF ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION.

Not only does alcohol have beaucoup empty calories, but it decreases your inhibitions, making it more likely that you’ll eat more food than you intended. Like much in life, moderation is key.

WATCH OUT FOR NONALCOHOLIC LIQUID CALORIES, AS WELL.

Punch, egg nog, cider . . . the bevy of high-calorie beverages available this time of year can sneak up on you. Stick to water or carbonated flavored water.

TWO WORDS: SMALL PLATES.

If you stack a smaller plate full with your favorites, you’ll feel more satisfied than if you fill a larger plate only half full.

EAT SLOWLY.

Because of the way our stomach communicates with our brain (there’s a delay), the faster we eat, the more we tend to consume.

MAKE TIME FOR EXERCISE.

I know, it’s a busy time of year! But make exercise a priority. Your body will thank you.

IF YOU’VE OVERINDULGED (AND WE ALL DO ON OCCASION), PLAN TO GET BACK ON TRACK.

It is the holidays, after all, and if we don’t overdo it too much, a bit of ‘celebrating’ is a welcome break when visiting with family and friends. That said, it’s important to get back on track quickly.

DON’T BEAT YOURSELF UP.

Slip-ups happen, especially this time of year. Forgive yourself and continue with your healthy lifestyle. Health and fitness is a journey, with ups and downs and bumps in the road. The holidays are chock full of parties, family gatherings, and other social events which inevitably include rich, delicious food – and lots of it! To prevent weight gain from these encounters, focus on your friends and family rather than the food. Intentionally chat with as many guests as you can. Catch up with the people you haven’t seen in ages and make a few new friends. The buffet table will still be there.

There’s strength in our numbers.

We’re proud to be the region’s largest, independent musculoskeletal group. Our experienced specialists work together to provide our patients with the type of care they expect and deserve—personalized, attentive, respectful, and of the highest quality. And when it comes to technology, we’re bringing the latest advances to Southwest Louisiana so you won’t have to leave home to get the care you need. Our team of doctors includes these specialties: orthopaedic surgery physical medicine and rehabilitation foot and ankle care/surgery primary care sports medicine

interventional pain management hand surgery neurosurgery

Whatever your musculoskeletal concern, we’ve got you covered from head to toe.

Lake Charles | Sulphur

CenterforOrtho.com

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Mind & Body

LET IN THE

Light

Dealing with Seasonal Affective Disorder Grandma called them the ‘winter blues’; Grandpa would say he was in the ‘doldrums’. Whatever it’s called, for many people, winter’s waning daylight and overcast skies invite in the shadows. For those affected by seasonal affective disorder (SAD), even the relatively mild winter seasons of the Deep South can bring on anxiety, depression, and unexpected mood swings. The National Institute of Health (NIH) estimates that approximately 6% of people experience acute cases of SAD, while up to 14% report they simply feel blue, irritable, and outof-sorts when the days grow shorter.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • December 2019

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders no longer lists SAD as a simple mood disorder. They’ve extended its diagnosis as a ‘specifier,’ characterized by seasonal patterns that cause recurrent major depressive disorders. SAD’s symptoms occur only at specific times of year, while fully disappearing in other times. Causes include the decrease in the amount of daylight during fall and winter, which affects our circadian rhythms and causes hormonal changes. Being housebound due to inclement weather leads to less socializing and fewer outdoor activities. For this reason, SAD is more prevalent in regions with colder temperatures, heavy snowfall, and ice. Nearly 10% of the population of New Hampshire experience SAD, compared to less than 2% in Florida. For severe depression from SAD, doctors prescribe antidepressant medications, taken over a few weeks prior to the onset of symptoms each year. However, nonpharmaceutical options are available, including light therapy, increased outdoor physical activity, scheduled socializing, dietary adjustments, and remedies that require the mind to concentrate.

by Madelaine Brauner Landry

Melatonin, a natural brain chemical, is switched on in darkness and off by light. This explains why some SAD sufferers report less depression when they sit near windows, soaking up the morning light. Others force themselves outdoors for brisk walks; even a short one can be a good antidote for anxiety. Many say they use longer winter days to catch up on reading, involvement in lifelong learning, or participation in other brain-sharpening exercises. For examples, you could learn to play a new musical instrument, familiarize yourself with a new language (there are apps for that), or take an online cooking class. Join a club with like-minded people. Dabble in art or learn to sew, knit or crochet. Tackle a 1000-piece jigsaw puzzle. It may be hard to get moving initially, but time passes more quickly when focused on activities that involve learning, movement, and goal-setting. There’s also wisdom in the adage ‘you are what you eat.’ Squashes and sweet potatoes are high in magnesium and potassium, filled with B6, Biotin, and anti-inflammatory agents. Asparagus increases serotonin and bananas stabilize blood sugar levels. Fish, like salmon, offer an energy boost from their omega-3 fatty acids.

Is SAD a real disorder? What can be done to alleviate its more acute symptoms, such as loss of energy, appetite changes, increased sleepiness, and lack of interest in activities?

Left untreated, SAD sufferers can experience depression severe enough to bring on hopelessness and suicidal thoughts. In extreme cases, medical intervention is necessary. SAD may not be an issue for you, but if you suspect it is for a loved one, especially an elderly family member or neighbor, take action. Call them often. Invite them over for a healthy meal. Take them out for coffee, conversation, and camaraderie. Everyone has down days, but be alert to appetite and sleep pattern changes, difficulty in concentration, and expressions of hopelessness in others. You can be a positive presence in someoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life this winter.

Protect your heart. Trust the experts. Make your appointment today.

337.388.6200 No Referrals Necessary.

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Karen Golla, NP

Avinash Murthy, md

Fernando Ruiz, MD thriveswla.com

Mind & Body

Grieving

During the Holidays by Lauren Morris

The holidays are supposed to be a joyous time, full of cheer and fun times with family and friends. But for anyone who has recently – or even not so recently – experienced the loss of a loved one, the holidays can be a very difficult time. When you’re feeling a little (or a lot) less joyous than those around you, it can be tempting to try to just skip the holidays altogether, but we all know that’s not exactly realistic, or healthy, for that matter.

Andy Hankins, licensed funeral director with

Johnson Funeral Home, says the most productive thing you can do for yourself is to accept that grief goes handin-hand with healing. “This acceptance is the first step in moving forward, and although it’s the holidays, there are ways you can grieve and still enjoy this time of year.” One of the first things you can do is give yourself a break. We are all guilty of over-stretching ourselves at times. We agree to do too many things until we find we don’t have time to even take care of ourselves. And remember, it’s not just you that’s experiencing the grief you’re feeling right now, and to be what you need to be for not only yourself, but the rest of your family, you shouldn’t stretch yourself too thin. “You cannot pour from an empty cup, and that may mean holding yourself accountable for making sure your cup is filled,” says Hankins. “Maybe you normally cook 90% of Christmas dinner by yourself, go all out on decorations, help with the school Christmas program, host your work party. It’s okay to scale back on your responsibilities this year. Make time for yourself, for your family, and for what you need the most.” He says it’s also important to be aware of things that may be triggers for you. If it’s an event that you know will bring forward painful emotions, it’s okay to bow out. Others may tell you it will be healthy for you, but you know you best, and you don’t have to please everyone by participating in things that will cause you unnecessary pain. Another way to cope is to create new traditions. Doing things out of the ordinary can be really fun and will be a healthy way to acknowledge that things are different. Attempting to force things to stay the

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • December 2019

same will be exhausting and, most likely, an utter failure, because they simply aren’t the same. Maybe host a Christmas brunch instead of dinner, have a candle ceremony where each member of the family shares memories of your passed loved one, get an ornament every year in remembrance, or even create a remembrance tree. “Doing things to honor your loved one’s memory is one of the best ways to come to peace with the fact that they are no longer with you,” adds Hankins. Giving of your time and services is something that will always warm your heart. While you’re grieving, it may lift your spirits to do a little something extra for those in need. Even when you are feeling the lowest of lows, you still have so much to offer to the world, and while grief can make you feel lost and lonely, offering your time to others will help you feel a little more like you have a place and a purpose. “Every shelter, nursing home, and charity organization around can use extra help, and while your helping hands will make a difference in their lives, you may notice the thing that stands out most is your own healing,” says Hankins. The grieving process is different for everyone and will undoubtedly appear so to others. Hankins has seen this first-hand many times: “Even people in your life who are enduring it themselves – or have before – may not be able to recognize when you’re having a particularly rough day. It will help you and those around you if you’re open about your emotions and willing to ask for help. We are given loved ones and friends so that we can have a support system in hard times. Sometimes, though, people in our lives may not realize how to help.

Let them know what they can do – maybe you just want company, maybe you need an ear, maybe you just need someone to go Christmas shopping with you. Whatever it is, be up front in asking for it. People want to be there for you.” Finding a support group or scheduling with a professional therapist may be a good thing for you as well. Connecting with others who are suffering through a similar loss as you can be cathartic and productive. A therapist will provide clarity for you in what can feel like the most complex roller coaster of emotions you’ve ever been on. They will help you make sense of your new reality, provide comfort, answers, and paths to healing. Most of all, experts agree that the path to healing is unpredictable. This unpredictability is the only thing that is predictable. “Maybe you’ve gotten to a place that feels a little more comfortable, but the holidays are bringing out emotions you thought you had behind you. This is normal,” assures Hankins. “Grief is not a straight line, but you will get through it and cross over to something that feels more like normal – your new normal. Until then, hold tightly to your family and friends, the positive things in your life, and celebrate the memory of your passed loved one by enjoying the holidays in a whole new way.”

Your Place or Ours?

The first step in diagnosing sleep apnea is a sleep test. It can be done in your own home or in our sleep lab. Afterward, one of our sleep specialists will meet with you to review results and guide you on the path to sleeping well and waking up refreshed. Call us today to get started.

#WalkTalkMove

Dr. Phillip Conner

SLEEP SPECIALISTS

Phillip Conner, MD | Michelle Zimmerman, NP

HopeTherapyCenter.net | 1727 Imperial Blvd, Bldg 3 | 478-5880

4820 Lake St., Lake Charles (337) 310-REST sleepdisordercenterofla.com thriveswla.com

Money & Career

PHILANTHROPY Made Easy

Remember the old adage “It’s better to give than to receive”? 18

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • December 2019

With proper planning, it’s possible to do both at the same time. Your financial goals may include giving to the causes that are most important to you. During this season of giving, we encourage you to expand your giving philosophy and realize that giving can benefit you as well as your beneficiaries. The following articles provide strategies and tips to show you how to make the world a better place with your time and resources.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the holidays. Prance like no oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s watching. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

www.MyLKSB.bank | 474.3766 Lake Charles Sulphur Westlake DeRidder

merry christmas from our family to yours...

For unto us a child is born, unto us a Son is given. Isaiah 9:6

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Money & Career | PHILANTHROPY Made Easy

The Community Foundation of

Southwest Louisiana CONNECTING PEOPLE WHO CARE WITH CAUSES THAT MATTER by Sara McLeod Judson

Over a century ago, Ellen Martha Goos Lock bought land on Ryan Street for a park to honor the memory of her husband, Captain Daniel Lock. After hiring architects Favrot and Livaudais and building a firstclass park, she donated the greenspace to the City of Lake Charles in 1918. She also set aside money for its upkeep. After six generations of managing the funds to care for Lock Park, her family wanted to find another option to ensure it would last forever. They chose to endow a fund at the Community Foundation of Southwest Louisiana, an easy, effective and enduring way to continue the pledge Ellen made to the children of our region. On a sunny day, among the joyful squeals of kids, you might see a little girl named Eloise on swings and slides of Lock Park, made possible by the generosity of her ancestor, Ellen Lock.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • December 2019

The Community Foundation is based in Lake Charles, but serves our five-parish region. It manages charitable accounts – a kind of investment account for doing good – for philanthropists. People like Wayne Simmons. Affectionately called “the alligator man,” Wayne was a regular guy who grew up in our area. He loved to hunt, fish and hang out at Fred’s Lounge at Big Lake. When he was diagnosed with terminal cancer, he decided he wanted to leave money in his will to causes that he had supported throughout the years. These contributions were often $100 or $200 a year to charities like the American Cancer Society, the Louisiana Baptist Children’s Home in Monroe and the Salvation Army. Fortunately for Southwest Louisiana, Wayne’s financial advisor, Reed Mendelson, suggested that instead of leaving lump

sums to these nonprofits, he create an endowment fund at the Community Foundation to support those nonprofits forever. Wayne Simmons passed away in 2014. He left more than $1 million to create the Wayne Simmons Memorial Endowment Fund, which makes annual contributions to the three nonprofits that he supported throughout his life. In the first five years of this endowment fund, these nonprofits have each received over $56,000. A man whose passion was hunting and fishing also had a passion for giving that is lasting well past his own lifetime. Another local family has recently established a fund at the Community Foundation to support what is important to them today: Our Lady Queen of Heaven Catholic Church. Karen and Ken Chamberlain created their fund earlier

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this year, and it will be funded after they have both lived full lives. Their fund agreement was designed by them with the help of the Community Foundation and will be funded in their estate plans. It will support their church, cover the cost of professional development for priests in the Diocese of Lake Charles and benefit children’s causes in our region. If you want to give to the causes you care about, the Community Foundation of Southwest Louisiana has charitable accounts to match your wishes. The Foundation manages the assets in the charitable funds and makes grants to nonprofits, whether it is giving to causes important to you now or designing them to give forever. Sara McLeod Judson is the President and CEO of the Community Foundation of SWLA. For more information on the Community Foundation, visit their website www.foundationswla.org.

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Money & Career | PHILANTHROPY Made Easy

CHARITABLE How Financial Advisors GIVING: Encourage Philanthropy by Stefanie Powers

Whatever your net worth, being in the position to give back and use some of your resources for the greater good can be empowering and create a rewarding experience.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • December 2019

Financial advisors are becoming more influential in their clients’ decisions on philanthropy, according to a recent U.S. trust study. More than three-fourths (76 percent) of clients who discussed philanthropy with their advisors rated the advisor’s ability to discuss their personal values and charitable goals as “strong,” according to the U.S. Trust Study of the Philanthropic Conversation. You hire financial advisors to manage your money and satisfy your financial goals. Giving money back to a charity helps you achieve some of those objectives while making an impact on society. In addition, charitable giving can reduce your tax liability. But you’ll need help to navigate these somewhat murky waters. Your financial adviser can put together a philanthropic strategy tailored to your individual needs. This is where the Donor Advised Fund (DAF) comes in. It works like a personal fund dedicated to your charitable giving. Instead of writing multiple checks to individual charities, you put everything into one simple Giving Fund. You can decide now or later on the charities you want your Giving Fund to support. While you decide, your contributions are invested with the potential to grow tax-free to make a bigger impact.

WHEN DECIDING WHO WILL BENEFIT FROM YOUR PHILANTHROPY, ASK YOURSELF THE FOLLOWING:

• • • •

• •

Is there anything you want to do to honor people, organizations or institutions that have been important to you? Are there certain geographic areas that have been significant to you, your family or your business? What has made a big impact on your life? Are there any family members, colleagues or friends whom you admire that are very philanthropic? Would you be interested in supporting some of the causes that they support? Is leaving a legacy important to you, and if so, what type of legacy would you like to leave? In your estate-planning documents, have you named any charitable beneficiaries?

Once you determine who will receive your donations, your financial advisor will help you determine the appropriate donation amount and strategy given your income and donation goals.

THERE ARE MANY BENEFITS TO INVESTING THROUGH A DONOR ADVISED FUND (DAF), INCLUDING:

• • •

Low cost to maintain – donate to the fund as often as you like and receive an immediate tax benefit. Able to invest contributions – a DAF allows for liquid contributions only (stocks, bonds, etc.). Full control over the fund – your DAF is like a charitable savings account—put money in today and grant it to charities when you’re ready.

The DAF is controlled by a nonprofit, called a sponsoring organization, which invests the assets and manages the donor’s account. Community foundations often serve as sponsoring organizations and so do nonprofit arms of financial-services firms, such as Vanguard Charitable and Schwab Charitable. There are now over 300,000 DAFs that are user-friendly, inexpensive and utilized by people like you and me.

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Money & Career | PHILANTHROPY Made Easy

How to Teach Children to be Compassionate, Generous, and Community-Minded by Natalie Silverstein

Much has been written about the “over-scheduled child.” In these hectic times, when families are pulled in many directions and attention is drawn to devices, parents yearn to keep kids connected, grounded, and grateful. Volunteering together is one way to achieve these goals while improving the lives of others in your community. The challenge is finding the time. It’s all about prioritizing: saying “yes” to service, which might mean saying “no” to something else. Doing so reminds your children of what’s really important and teaches them how to treat others.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • December 2019

Here are some tips for launching or reinvigorating a family kindness practice during the holidays and throughout the year: IT’S NEVER TOO EARLY OR TOO LATE TO START.

Everyone – from young children to teenagers – can volunteer in developmentally appropriate ways. If you consistently and organically incorporate service into daily routines, giving back becomes a habit, woven into the fabric of your family life.

LET THE SCHOOL CALENDAR, HOLIDAYS, AND SEASONS GUIDE YOU.

At the end of each month, take a few moments to identify upcoming holidays and school breaks when you might volunteer together. During summer, host a lemonade stand for childhood cancer research, or fill backpacks with essential supplies for children in need. In the fall, identify a soup kitchen that needs your support at Thanksgiving. As the holiday season approaches, find an opportunity to make wishes come true through toy drives or “adopta-family” programs. The opportunities are endless. Find projects that resonate with your family and include them in your plans each year.

Family service allows you to live your values while spreading compassion and joy in a world that desperately needs both. Children feel pride in serving and reap the enormous benefits of flexing their empathy “muscles”. There’s no magic formula – parents simply need to keep an open heart, an observant eye, and a positive intention. Every day, and in every busy schedule, there’s always time to do good. Natalie Silverstein, MPH is a writer, consultant, speaker, and a passionate advocate for family and youth service. Her book, Simple Acts: The Busy Family’s Guide to Giving Back (www.simpleactsguide.com) was published by Gryphon House in April, 2019. She is the New York Coordinator of Doing Good TogetherTM, a national nonprofit dedicated to helping parents raise kids who care and contribute.

INCORPORATE SERVICE INTO THINGS YOU ARE ALREADY DOING.

If your child hosts a playdate, encourage a kindness activity like baking cookies or making cheerful cards to deliver to your local fire station or police precinct. When planning your child’s birthday party, ask them to select a charity they’d like to support with their celebration, and host a donation drive in lieu of gifts.

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TRY EASY “KITCHEN TABLE KINDNESS” ACTIVITIES.

With crayons and construction paper, a child can write a letter or draw a picture for a soldier or a hospitalized child. Help kids create “no-sew” fleece blankets for seniors in a nursing home, or friendship bracelets for new students at school.

PRACTICE RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS AS YOU MOVE THROUGH YOUR DAY. As you head to the market, offer to pick up groceries for a homebound neighbor. Bring a hot cup of coffee to the crossing guard on a cold day. Pick up trash as you walk around your neighborhood. Allow your kids to leave a few coins in the tip jar at the coffee shop. Your one small act might have a ripple effect and change another person’s whole day. Kids are always watching you and learning how to treat others.

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Money & Career | Philanthropy Made Easy

From January to November each year, a local retiree is known as Bob Nordan. But come the holiday season, heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s better known as Santa Claus!

first person with

Santa (aka Bob Nordan) by Angie Kay Dilmore

Thrive Magazine for Better Living â&#x20AC;˘ December 2019

Nordan’s family moved to Southwest Louisiana in 1956 when he was in the 4th grade. He graduated from Sulphur High and spent a couple years studying accounting at McNeese State University. He met his future wife, Deenie, joined the Airforce, did a tour in Vietnam, and then returned to McNeese. His dream at that time was to be an FBI agent. Accounting was one way to get in. But then Nordan discovered computers. With only two semesters left until he completed a degree, he left McNeese and was hired by the Calcasieu Marine Bank to start their computer center. He worked there for 18 years until 1990. Next, Nordan did computer work for Abundant Life Fellowship (now Christian World) where he served for 16 years. Deenie worked as a registered nurse at Memorial Hospital for 38 years. The couple has two sons and six grandchildren. Two decades ago, Nordan quietly began a second career as a professional Santa. Deenie often goes along as Mrs. Claus. While Nordan does have some business cards, he has never advertised. His popularity has soared over the years through word of mouth. That, and the fact that from mid-November until Christmas Day, this 72-year-old never leaves his house without donning his Santa hat and a bright red shirt. Thrive magazine recently sat down with Nordan, where he shared childhood memories, life experiences, and the joy of being Santa Claus.

What was Christmas like for you growing up? As a child, Christmas was the best day of the year. My daddy was a big fan of Christmas, and it was a special day. I have two sisters, and we had a close family. We were allowed to open just one present on Christmas Eve. All the others were for Christmas morning. Growing up, I loved Santa. I never dreamed I would one day BE Santa.

How did you become known as the go-to Santa in SWLA?

I just slipped into it. When I was 40 years old, I started letting my beard grow. I hated to shave. Over time, it turned completely white and people started saying I looked like Santa. At the time, I weighed near 250 pounds, so that helped. At first, I’d just wear a Santa hat. Eventually, I bought a suit and started doing some volunteer work, for example, at local schools. Over the past 20 years, my Santa career has grown. I enjoy it because of the kids, to see the looks on their faces.

How many gigs do you do over a typical holiday season?

Between Thanksgiving and Christmas, I play Santa at around 30 events. I’ve done up to four in one day.

Who are your clients?

Schools, nursing homes and assisted living facilities, private and corporate parties, Chick-fil-A. But Billy Navarre is my biggest client – he discovered me three years ago. Now I work at his carwash, passing candy canes out to the kids.

Over the past several years, you’ve transformed your Santa physique into a slimmer version. Describe that journey.

In 2011, my daughter-in-law, who is an exercising, marathon-running, health nut, wanted to run a half-marathon with my sons, and they asked me to join them. So I did. At 245 pounds. Of course, with my Santa cap and red shirt on. I trained and ran it in a little over three hours. After that, my daughter-in-law got me on a diet regimen, and I lost 70 pounds over several months. Later, I participated in an endurance fundraiser event for wounded warriors called Tough Mudder. Mostly through diet, our lifestyle has completely changed.

What’s the best thing about playing Santa?

I love making the kids happy, seeing the wonderment on their faces. But it’s not just the kids. I’ll be driving down the road with my Santa hat on and people honk their horns at me, wave and smile. I look forward to this season all year long.

Where is the most unusual place you have played Santa? Two years ago, in December, we took a trip to China. And of course, I wore my Santa hat. The people there loved it, wanted to take photos with me, asked me to hold their kids. Santa seems to be universal.

How long do you plan to continue this vocation? As long as I’m physically able.

Name three things most people don’t know about Santa. I was born in Jackson, Mississippi. My favorite beverage is diet peach tea. And my favorite animal is the basset hound. (And you thought it was my reindeer!)

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Money & Career

Alliance for Positive Growth Initiates SWLA Panel Discussions by Angie Kay Dilmore

Founded in 2017, Alliance for Positive Growth (APG) is a dedicated, grassroots group of professionals in real estate, development, construction and other interested parties who work together to promote strong, beneficial growth in Southwest Louisiana. They recently initiated a series of Public Servant Panel discussions with area leaders for the purpose of sharing information and fostering communication for the benefit of our region. The inaugural event was held in late October and featured Mayor Nicholas Hunter and several other Lake Charles civic government officials, where they discussed upcoming projects. “The purpose of the panel is to develop open dialogue between public officials and business owners. One where government representatives can share projects they feel need more awareness, while making themselves available to respond to questions from local professionals,” says Faith S. Hooks, APG Executive Director. As you might imagine, top of the list concerns included drainage and infrastructure. “There are several things that we could be doing now with drainage,” said Hunter. “For example, we can clean out underground drainage lines that haven’t been cleaned out in many years.” But this will take time. Hunter said in the two years he has been mayor, and city workers have been inspecting the city drainage lines, only

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • December 2019

15% of the lines have been inspected to date. “But that’s a start,” he adds. “We are spending 93% more every year average on drainage than we have in the past. It costs money, but it is money well spent.” Regarding infrastructure, the city council recently approved a five-milliondollar supplemental infrastructure package for the City of Lake Charles for fiscal year 2019. That represents the largest amount of money of city dollars that the city has ever spent on issues like street stripping, overlay, intersection improvements, sidewalks, and bus shelters. Other issues the panel discussed included the lakefront development (Port Wonder and Crying Eagle); economic development districts

and incentives, especially in the underserved areas such as North Lake Charles, I-10 corridor, and Enterprise Blvd.; partnerships and projects with the parish (ie. Cove Lane, Ham Reid Rd. extension, a sewer loop south of town, streetlights along roadways); and budgetary updates. APG holds quarterly general membership meetings. Panel discussions will take place quarterly, as well. The next event is scheduled for January and hopes to feature Calcasieu Parish Administration Members. For more information on APG, see their website, apgrowth.org, or call 337-602-6788.

Warm Up with Community Coffee’s New Winter Blend Just in time for the holiday season, Community Coffee Company, the number one family-owned retail coffee brand in America, is excited to release its new limited-edition Winter Blend. Featuring 100% select Arabica coffee beans from African and South American regions, Winter Blend is a naturally decadent, sweet blend. Roasted to perfection to create a smooth cup of coffee, it is perfect for wintery days and holiday gatherings. Community® Winter Blend is available in ground coffee and single-serve cups only for a limited time. Only available while supplies last, Community® Winter Blend coffee is ready to order direct from CommunityCoffee.com, Amazon and select retailers. SOWELA Technical Community College Invited to Enter $1 Million Aspen Prize Competition for Community College Excellence SOWELA Technical Community College was recently named as one of 150 community colleges eligible to compete for the 2021 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, the nation’s signature recognition of high achievement and performance in America’s community colleges. SOWELA was selected from a pool of nearly 1,000 public two-year colleges nationwide to compete for the $1 million Aspen Prize, which typically includes $600,000 to the Grand Prize Winner and $100,000 to runner ups. Awarded every two years since 2011, the Aspen Prize is based on strong and improving student outcomes, including learning, completion rates, employment rates and earnings, and equity, with 15 percent of community colleges nationwide invited to apply.

SOWELA will move forward to the next round of the competition for the Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence by submitting an application to be reviewed through a rigorous evaluation for a spot on the top 10 Aspen Prize finalists list. Top 10 finalists will be named in May 2020. The Aspen Institute will then conduct site visits to each of the finalists and collect additional quantitative data. A distinguished Prize Jury will select a grand prize winner, finalist(s) with distinction, and rising star(s) in spring 2021. For more information, visit www.sowela.edu. Gophr App Releases First Service Gophr App announced Gophr Direct, a new service from the delivery startup. Gophr Direct allows your favorite local stores to offer same-day and expedited delivery, simply place your order with a participating store like you always do and request delivery. The store will add the cost of delivery to your order and send that delivery through to Gophr Direct. Gophr’s first deliveries came from Cayenne Marketing, and since then they have made several deliveries to Lake Charles and surrounding areas. Some other participating stores are: Niche Creative Studio Papersmith House of Sole Minuteman Press Accessory Zone Uniformly Fit Gophr Direct is now servicing areas from Jennings to Vinton, and Cameron to DeRidder as well as the Lake Area. For the complete list of stores available with Gophr Direct see them at www.gophr.app/direct.com

CCA Louisiana, Phillips 66 Build “Floating Islands” in Lake Charles The Coastal Conservation Association of Louisiana’s Lake Charles Chapter, Phillips 66, Martin Ecosystems and local students from Pearl Watson Elementary and Bishop Noland Episcopal Day School teamed up today to help rebuild the coastline near Prien Lake with a Floating Islands installation. Volunteers from Phillips 66, local CCA chapter volunteers and about 100 students braved the chilly weather at the public boat launch next to the I-210 bridge to build approximately 2,000 square feet of new wetland island habitat. Each 8 x 15 foot “island” held 300 plants and were loaded onto a large barge for transport to the marsh site. Once in the marsh, they were placed end-to-end and anchored to the water bottom. Roughly 4,000 native plants, including mangrove, seashore paspalum and smooth cord grass, were installed. The “floating islands” technology allows these plants to take root in the water bottom while providing protection to the existing shoreline from the natural elements. This is the second large-scale habitat partnership between Phillips 66 and CCA in recent years. In 2018, the two groups worked together to expand the Brad Vincent Artificial Reef in Calcasieu Lake. This was the sixth floating islands project spearheaded by CCA Louisiana in recent years. This build marks the 32nd habitat project completed in recent years by CCA Louisiana and their partners, including 26 artificial reef projects and 6 marsh planting projects, representing a total habitat investment of nearly $12 million. For more information about this project or about CCA Louisiana, please visit ccalouisiana.com

Entergy Louisiana Completes Reliability Project in Southwest Louisiana Entergy Louisiana customers in Southwest Louisiana are now being served by a stronger, more resilient grid with the completion of a nearly $100 million project. The upgrade covered approximately 900 square miles, almost all of which is within Jefferson Davis Parish, and included the construction of new transmission lines as well as rebuilding many existing lines. Both the new and rebuilt sections of line use steel structures that can withstand winds of up to 140 miles per hour and employ reinforced high-voltage wire that will move power more reliably and efficiently. In total, approximately 58 miles of lines were added or upgraded. In addition, the project included the construction of a new substation located in Welsh, Louisiana. To ensure the reliability of the new and upgraded transmission lines, five substations were modified to replace equipment such as protective relays and circuit breakers. Entergy Louisiana plans to invest more than $4 billion through 2021 to modernize and strengthen Louisiana’s infrastructure to enhance reliability and meet the growing needs of the state’s residents and businesses for years to come. McNeese and LSCO Agreement McNeese State University and Lamar State College Orange, a two-year institution in Texas, have formalized an agreement that will create seamless pathways for students to transfer to McNeese for a four-year degree. LSCO currently offers 13 programs that are covered under the transfer agreement, including associate degree programs in business, computer science, criminal justice, education and sociology. For more information, visit www.sowela.edu.

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Places & Faces

wintegr s

n i d d e W Spring, summer and fall seasons seem to get all the attention when it comes to wedding planning. But there’s something innately elegant and magical about the prospect of a winter wedding. If you’re thinking of planning a winter wedding, (and there is so much to think about, right? – the venue, décor, catering, fashion, hair and make-up) we’ve got some ideas for you! Read on.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • December 2019

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Places & Faces | Winter Weddings

Dreaming of a te

i h W edding W

Cozy fireplaces, mugs filled with hot cocoa and a chill in the air can only mean one thing . . . winter is coming! And whether you’re having a winter wedding or not, you can still appreciate some of the hottest, or, dare we say, coolest trends, according to Amanda Fontenot, Gray Plantation’s Director of Sales and Marketing.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • December 2019

by Haley Tarasiewicz

“In Louisiana, winter weather often means a cozy sweater or an evening fire versus a snowy backdrop,” said Fontenot. “But, that doesn’t mean you can’t bring your own wintry touches to your celebration using the season’s rich, geminspired colors, faux fur, holiday foliage, signature cocktails and more."

FONTENOT OFFERS SOME TIPS THAT MIGHT INSPIRE YOU TO PLAN YOUR NUPTIALS DURING THE LAST QUARTER OF THE YEAR:

Color Palette

If you’re drawn to the season’s classic colors – red and green – feel free to incorporate them into your big-day, but we suggest throwing in a plaid palette offering a modern contrast – think table runners or perhaps the groomsmen tuxes even. If traditional isn’t your thing, no worries. There are many other sophisticated winter color palettes to consider. Think moody emeralds and plums, warm cream and berry tones, icy blues and shades of grey, or dazzling silver, copper and gold.

Wedding Party

The cooler temps might mean those cold shoulders need to be covered up. Choose bridesmaid dresses with long sleeves or faux fur wraps. You could also pick a cozy fabric like velvet, or an eyecatching floral print, or beaded ensemble that sparkles! For his side of the party, consider trading the suit jackets for sweaters or cardigans, or even experiment with scarves.

Make it a

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Places & Faces | Winter Weddings photo by Emily Rose Martindale

Catering & Cocktails

Warm and creamy soups like tomato and lobster bisque are excellent starters, but we love the trend of passing them as hors d'oeuvres! Or how about a mashed potato bar with all the fixings, or a pasta station with different noodles and sauces? And just because it's cold doesn't mean you need to avoid lighter foods like salads! Seasonal fruits and veggies such as apples and cranberries pair perfectly with heavier comfort foods. For dessert, there's no better way to treat your guests than to offer a hot cocoa bar with peppermint sticks as stirrers or fresh baked cookies and cold milk. As a traditional wedding cake alternative, maybe incorporate a gingerbread house! And nothing says cheers to the winter season like a signature cocktail such as a white Russian, mulled wine, a hot toddy, peppermint cocktail, egg nog or hotbuttered rum.

photo by Emily Rose Martindale

Flowers

While many people may think the cold weather doesn’t give you many options on blooms, that’s simply not the case. Here are some seasonal options we are especially fond of:

•

BRUNIA BERRIES are small silver balls that add a perfect accent to your winter bouquet.

•

The popular SUCCULENT TREND is a fun winter wedding flower alternative.

•

MANZANITA BRANCHES are wintery and rustic, and can even be spraypainted silver or gold.

•

PINECONES have an ultra winter feel, so they’re a perfect complement to any winter wedding arrangement.

•

HYPERICUM BERRIES are also a festive addition to bouquets.

•

ROSES are a year-round classic, but their diverse colors are especially gorgeous for winter.

•

YELLOW AND WHITE POINSETTIAS with winding greenery create a starry night’s display.

•

MISTLETOE brings the drama of the season to your celebration.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • December 2019

Celebrating our 30th Year in SWLA! Pronia’s Deli and Bakery is a locally owned business who has been in Lake Charles for 30 years! We specialize in many delicious sandwiches and other deli items along with many bakery items such as cakes, cupcakes, baklava, cannoli and more!

Monday – Friday: 10am-5:30pm Saturday: 10am-1:30pm Sunday: Closed 3101 Kirkman St Lake Charles (337) 478-0785

Decor

It will be dark quite early, so embrace it with lots of romantic candle lighting in both your ceremony and reception space, or even string lights to add a twinkle. Decorate your space with lush wreaths, statement florals, pinecones and berries, festive garlands and mixed textures. You could even incorporate knit blankets and plaid throws as a practical way to keep guests warm, but also just for show. Did we mention anything could be topped with a bow for the ultimate holiday-gift theme?

So if you’re contemplating ditching the typical spring wedding in favor of something a little more ‘chill,’ there are plenty of options to consider when saying “I do,” during this most wonderful time of the year! For more information about planning your wedding at Gray Plantation, call 337-562-1663 or visit www.grayplantation.com to learn more about their indoor and outdoor venues.

The newly completed event center at Bayou Rum is the ideal location to hold rehearsal dinners, weddings and receptions. Our unique and exquisite event center allows for a spacious, yet cozy “feel” to please both traditional and modern tastes. Large, floor-to-ceiling windows provide an exceptional view into the barrel library, creating a one-of-a-kind photo backdrop. Additionally, the adjacent courtyard offers space for quiet, outdoor cocktails or a live band on the stage.

Give your big day a Bayou Rum toast!

Call us at (337)588-5800, or email info@laspirits to set up an appointment with our event coordinator.

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Places & Faces | Winter Weddings

e h t g n i d Deci

Where f or your Wedding After he (or she) pops the question and you say “Yes!”, the next big question you need to ask is when and where. While wedding trends come and go and evolve over time, venues tend to be the one constant. “When it comes to venues, you simply want to start with a pretty canvas,” says Ashley Gatte, Event Leasing Agent for Empire of the Seed. “This allows you to add your own flare to the space without breaking the budget.”

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • December 2019

by Angie Kay Dilmore

The Where of a wedding depends on the personalities of each couple and what they want their wedding to look like. Do they envision a glamorous, extravagant affair with hundreds of guests; are they nature-lovers who prefer a quiet ceremony in the beautiful outdoors; or something in between? Many couples these days opt for smaller guest lists, not only for financial reasons, but also for an increased sense of intimacy. They’re more interested in creating an “experience” rather than following tradition, and each aspect of the wedding needs to have meaning for the couple. Whatever type of wedding you imagine, Gatte encourages couples to consider four major factors when choosing a venue: Price, location, capacity, and aesthetics.

Price

Capacity

Location

Gatte says it is so important for a couple to stay within their budget. “Knowing your wedding day priorities is key. If you are in love with a certain venue, there are ways to shift things around to make your dream space a reality. It’s all about setting a few big priorities and not worrying too much about the small details.”

Do you want your wedding to take place close to your home? Near the brides’ parents’ home where she grew up? Or do you prefer a destination wedding? Do you have a large number of family and friends who might need to travel? These are considerations when choosing a venue location.

How many people will you invite to your wedding? Does your dream space allow for this number? Will you need a large dance floor and space for a band? “Space is a significant part of the night when it comes to flow of the event and overall comfort of your guests,” says Gatte.

Aesthetic

Finally, you need to choose a location you love! “If you are going for a particular look with your wedding, the venue plays a huge part of making that look happen,” says Gatte.

Now that you’ve pondered those factors, let’s consider several local venues, depending on the style of wedding you have in mind. Gatte cites the popularity of “rustic elegance” (thanks to Chip and Joanna Gaines) for many couples. Examples of venues that work well with this style are Empire of the Seed’s Cash and Carry Event Center and the Paramount Room, as well as Louisiana Spirits’ Bayou Rum Event Center.

Most venues can be suitable to any wedding style simply through the couple’s choice of décor. If you want a venue in downtown Lake Charles, consider Historic Calcasieu Marine Bank, the Charleston Hotel, the Governor’s Mansion, the Chandelier Room, and Brickhouse. Need a larger venue? Try the Lake Charles Civic Center or the West Cal Event Center.

Do you envision an outdoor wedding? Gray Plantation and Oak Crossing offer stunning outdoor options, but are also lovely for indoor weddings. If you plan an outdoor wedding, do arrange for a Plan B in case of inclement weather.

Cash and Carry Event Center

Historic Calcasieu Marine Bank

How early should you begin your venue search? Gatte says Empire of the Seed usually books weddings a year to a year and a half in advance. “I find the extra time helps brides space out the planning and reduces stress.”

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Places & Faces | Winter Weddings

Icerincess P An Expertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s advice on Dressing for Your Winter Wedding by Emily Alford

Thrive Magazine for Better Living â&#x20AC;˘ December 2019

Bridal magazines often focus on spring and summer weddings. Wedding dresses, often sleeveless or strapless, seem to be designed for hot weather weddings. But winter weddings offer unique opportunities for personal expression. On your big day, consider embracing that seasonal chic with your wedding look. Here are some cooler-weather trends for outfitting a beautiful winter wedding.

Be a trendsetter

Even though Louisiana doesn’t often see snow, there’s something whimsical about a touch of frost in the air that adds a hint of romance to the prospect of a winter wedding. According to Laurie Baynard, owner of L Bridal Couture in Lake Charles, a winter wedding is the perfect time to experiment with cooler weather trends like adding a beautiful white cape to a wedding look, wearing a long-sleeved gown, or even experimenting with denim and leather for boho-inspired brides. “Sleeves will always be beautiful in a winter wedding,” Baynard says. “Capes are really popular. And of course, fur!”

But plan carefully While brides planning winter weddings in states that see heavy snowfall have to worry about blizzards, at least they pretty much know without a doubt that the wedding day will be cold. In Louisiana, the weather is a bit more complicated, which brides should take into consideration when wedding shopping.

“Outfit planning for a Louisiana winter wedding is going to obviously be different than your typical winter wedding,” Baynard says. “We have to be prepared for any of the seasons to show up, which makes sleeves a great choice. If it’s cold, they’ll offer a little warmth, and if it’s hot, wedding dress sleeves are normally made of an illusion tulle with lace, so they are also very breathable. You can always layer and add furs, shawls, boleros, a delicate sweater, or bridal jacket.”

Whether you’re planning on keeping your winter wedding indoors or getting back to nature, experimenting with wedding dress styles specifically intended for winter, like sleeves and fur accents, is a fun way to incorporate the romance of the season.

Consider texture

The great thing about winter weddings is that instead of spending the day in one wedding dress, brides can choose wedding shawls, capes, and even furs, which provide an excellent opportunity to layer textures. “With winter weddings, you can really explore a lot of different fabrics and textures,” Baynard says. “For a winter wedding dress, I love a heavier lace such as guipure or alencon lace. And heavier fabrics, as mikado silk or satin, paired with fur accents on coats and jackets is just so beautiful and classic. Textured skirts are also perfect for winter since they are a little heavier as well!”

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Places & Faces | Winter Weddings

Picture t

c e f r e P

A Bride’s Guide to Wedding Day Nails, Makeup, and Hair

For most brides planning the perfect wedding look starts months, if not years, before the big day. However, many don’t realize that achieving the perfect hairstyle, makeup, and nails for a wedding actually takes months of preparation. Here is a schedule to get started planning your best wedding look.

by Emily Alford

Nails

Have your nails and toenails done one to two days before the wedding, and make sure to ask for a dipped or gel manicure, which lasts longer. You might even make it through the honeymoon without needing a touch up!

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • December 2019

Makeup

ONE-TWO MONTHS BEFORE Meet with your makeup artist to discuss your overall wedding day look, dress, hairstyle, and the vibe of the ceremony. Come prepared with some photos of wedding makeup you like. In your practice run for wedding makeup, you should be about the color you’re hoping to be in the photos, so if you plan on having a tanning session, make sure you do a test run afterwards. Take photographs of your test makeup from many different angles in different lighting— outdoors, indoors, different times of day—to ensure it’s exactly what you want.

THREE TO SEVEN DAYS BEFORE Plan on having a relaxing facial a week to three days before your wedding. Focus on exfoliation and moisturizing before your big day to get healthy, glowing skin in photos. If you need extractions—professional removal of imperfections—give yourself a few days for skin to calm down afterwards to ensure there is no lingering irritation on your wedding day. THE BIG DAY Set up a serene space in the bridal suite to have your hair and makeup done, away from the craziness of your wedding party coming and going. Give yourself at least 40 minutes for your makeup applications well in advance of your first round of bridal photos. Make sure you ask your makeup artist how to best touchup your look throughout the day.

Hair

SIX MONTHS AHEAD If you want to make any drastic changes to your hair, such as going from brown to

blonde or vice versa, it’s important to get the color exactly right before the wedding. The same goes for haircuts. Six months will give hair time to grow out if you decide you don’t love the new look and also allows time for treatments to get hair extra healthy, according to Ciarra Foreman, senior stylist at Bauhaus Salon. “At least six months before the wedding is a good time to start planning,” Foreman says. “Often times, regular trims and treatments are recommended for brides in order to get their hair to its best condition for the wedding day.” When meeting with your stylist, do your homework first! Bring pictures of your ideal wedding day look so you and your stylist are on the same page. “As a stylist, I love pictures,” says Aryca Bussel, master stylist at Bauhaus. “I’m a visual person and you can point out what you like and don’t. That way there is no confusion and it turns out perfect.” But you should probably make sure you have all the details about your wedding down before you begin thinking about your hair: “Let them know the time of year, whether

it’s outside or in, if it is a large or smaller celebration and if there is a theme,” says Leigh Ann Moreau, master stylist at Bauhaus. That way the stylist can get a good idea for the day, the look you might be going for, and can help you to come up with the most functional style for you and your bridal party. ONE MONTH AHEAD If you’re not making any huge changes to your tresses before the wedding, meet with the person you’ve enlisted to create your wedding hairstyle about a month beforehand. As with your makeup, come prepared with several ideas about what you would like your hair to look like. And don’t forget to ask how your stylist would like you to show up on the wedding day—some stylists prefer you skip washing your hair the day of the wedding. THE BIG DAY Don’t forget to wear a button-down shirt to your hair and makeup appointments! You don’t want to ruin your ‘do or smudge your contour on a collar!

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Places & Faces | Winter Weddings

The Wedding

t s i l y t S

by Madelaine Brauner Landry

When it comes to wedding décor, the “bride” is in the details. So are the groom, bride’s mother, and every other wellintentioned person in her life. So much advice and so many decisions . . . from invitations to flowers to cakes to backdrops to personalized gift items – the todo list can be exciting, fun, and admittedly, overwhelming.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • December 2019

Any couple will tell you that their number one wedding wish is to walk down the aisle together looking beautiful, happy, and serene, surrounded by the well wishes of loved ones. If outside assistance can be budgeted, wedding day jitters can be lessened. Hiring wedding planners, designers and stylists can be helpful, but be aware that their services and job descriptions are often interchangeable. Generally, a planner handles logistical and organizational details like venue rental and vendor contracts. Decorators and stylists consider themselves helpful with the aesthetic and creative details. Lake Charles wedding stylist, Sara Lasher, notes she likes to help couples curate and elevate their vision. “My surrounding planner colleagues, even a local photographer, offer styling as an added service to their more traditional offerings,” says Lasher. “Your vendors are on your team, and they want you to make choices that won’t make you wince five years from now. Trendy foods can be fun for everyone, and offbeat choices are close to my heart, because oftentimes they share a couple’s uniqueness better than many traditions ever could.” No two couples are alike. No two weddings are alike, and certainly every ‘perfect wedding’ vision differs. Some embrace tradition; others prefer to break all the rules. Details like ambiance, color, and lighting can be skillfully used to turn a couple’s ‘I Do’ into ‘This is Us.’ Wedding planning may involve some of the first major joint decisions for couples.

photos by Emily Rose Martindale

To create a memorable day reflective of their personalities, consider Lasher’s caveat. Choices should still be tastefully done. “While I’m all for tradition, and especially etiquette, I like to remind the couple that I’m looking for them to share their love story and stay true to themselves. Your guests are expecting to see you in your wedding choices, and if the wedding reflects who you are, it will be the perfect beginning to your next chapter together.” According to design blogs, current floral trends lean heavily on the minimalist/vintage approach. Rusty peach fall colors appear to be a popular staple, no matter the season. Bright tropical florals, greenery, and loosely constructed wildflower bouquets are equally trendy. Because scents can be a powerful conjurer of memories, designers are now weaving citrus, rosemary, and lavender into floral arrangements. Looser cascading bouquets, dripping with eucalyptus, are also predicted for 2020 weddings, according to local wedding photographer, Emily Rose Martindale. Consider atmosphere as well. Creating the right mood in a rented space can be challenging, but couples are limited only by imagination. Bohemian themes, for example, lend themselves to antique rugs, using pops of color to set the atmosphere, add dimension and break up space. Desert chic, retro, wanderlust, ocean breeze, and many other organic themes are trending, each relying on unique color palettes to evoke a romantic mood. Budget-conscious couples enjoy scouring through antique shops together in search of interesting centerpieces. Glass terrariums, brass candle holders, Moroccan lamps, handwoven baskets, even curious wooden pieces can be wrapped in feathers, furs, and pearls for added depth and texture. Using services to tweak the creative details allows couples to find peace of mind, knowing few details have been overlooked in their perfect wedding day vision. Save the jittery nerves for the wedding vows, not the creative details. Remember, this is your love story. For more information, visit saralasher.com.

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Places & Faces | Winter Weddings

s e i r o m e M g Capturin Trends in

Wedding

Photo

graphy by Angie Kay Dilmore

What aspect of your wedding will most likely last longer than your own memories? The photographs! For that reason, wedding photography is an integral part of the wedding plan for any engaged couple. And gone are the days when wedding photographs followed a strict script, with all the requisite, formal poses and collections of people lined up in a row and checked off a photographers list.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • December 2019

Today’s couples favor natural, casual poses, stunning backdrops, gorgeous lighting, dramatic imagery, and candid shots that capture special moments in time. Couples want photographs that portray their relationship and unique personalities. And with the rise of social media, couples place even more importance on getting unique, creative images. “Documentary-style photography is huge right now,” says local wedding photographer Emily Rose Martindale with Martindale Media Group. “That fly on the wall concept of coverage.” Martindale says the biggest photography trend right now is moody. “While it isn’t for everyone, this darker, moodier style is unique in that it provokes more than just our visual memory. You can almost smell, taste, hear, and feel what those moments felt like with this style.

Film is making a resurgence, often used in conjunction with digital images. “There’s this whole push to nostalgia,” Martindale says. “It’s the pursuit of something timeless. I think with how fast-paced and modern life is, we all still long for simpler things. Film is part of that; it feels more intimate and intentional. It’s quite romantic.” Photography incorporating non-traditional angles is on the rise. Overhead shots, for example, offer a unique perspective to capture the atmosphere of the day. Increasingly, couples are requesting their guests trust the wedding photographer to depict every detail of the day and to please keep their personal cameras and cell phones tucked away in pockets or purses. It certainly distracts from the mood of the ceremony (not to mention the ceremony photographs) when many of the guests have their phones out and pointed at the wedding party. When choosing a wedding photographer, skill and quality are obviously crucial, as well as budget considerations. However, Martindale says clients also strive to find a photographer whom they feel a connection to; someone they trust and feel comfortable to be themselves with. “I want my clients to not only know I’m an experienced professional, but also that I’m on their team. I’ll go to bat for them in the heat of a moment that could make or break a good mood.” Find Martindale Media Group on Facebook.

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Places & Faces

Movers and Shakers in Southwest Louisiana... Who’s News? You tell us! Send press releases to edit@thriveswla.com West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital Honors Two Employees West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital recently recognized its July and August employees of the month for 2019. Jordan Hatch, staffing coordinator, received the Amy Dever honor for July and Amy Dever, assistant to the chief clinical and nursing officer, received the honor for August. Hatch’s job entails ensuring proper staffing of nursing departments. Hatch joined WCCH in 2017. Jordan Hatch Dever provides assistance and support to WCCH nursing and clinical supervisors. Dever joined WCCH in 2015. JD Bancshares, Inc. Appoints Elder President & CEO of JD Bank and JD Bankcshares, Inc. The Board of Directors of JD Bancshares, Inc. announces that Bruce W. Elder, a 35-year commercial bank executive, has been selected President Bruce W. Elder & CEO of JD Bank and JD Bancshares, Inc. Elder, a North Carolina resident, comes to JD Bank from CresCom Bank, headquartered in Charleston, South Carolina. In this role, Elder will lead day-to-day operations and strategic direction of JD Bank. Dan L. Donald Jr., Interim President & CEO, will remain in his role as Chairman of the Board for JD Bank and JD Bancshares. For the past two years, Elder has served as the Strategy Officer and the President of North Carolina Banking for CresCom Bank. He joined CresCom in November 2017 as a result of CresCom’s acquisition of First South Bank headquartered in Washington, NC. He served as the President and CEO of First South from September 2012 through October 2017 and helped guide the bank through a period of high growth and profitability. 46

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • December 2019

Prior to joining First South, Elder spent 13 years as the Chief Financial Officer for Crescent State Bank in Cary, NC. He helped form Crescent in 1998 and served on the executive management team as the bank grew from one location and $11 million in total assets to 15 locations and $1 billion prior to its acquisition by Piedmont Community Bank Holdings in November 2011. He began his banking career in 1984 as an internal auditor working for two regional financial institutions. Elder also has two years of experience in external audit and tax preparation having worked in public accounting for bank and construction industry clients. He is a Certified Public Accountant licensed in the State of North Carolina and the Commonwealth of Virginia. Maplewood Band Director Again Named Semifinalist for GRAMMY® Maplewood Middle School Band Director Hubert “Mickey” Smith Jr. has once again been nominated for a GRAMMY® award. This “Mickey” Smith Jr. is Smith’s third time to be named a national semifinalist for the Music Educator Award™, presented by the Recording Academy™ and the GRAMMY Museum®. The award was established to recognize educators who make a lasting impact on students’ lives and who continuously show dedication to the field of music education. The 25 semifinalists for the 2020 Music Educator Award™ were chosen from more than 2,800 initial nominations from around the country. Ten finalists will be announced in December, and a winner will be announced during GRAMMY® Week 2020.

Joseph W. Darbonne

Joseph W. Darbonne Toujours Planning has announced the hire of Joseph W. Darbonne as their new Planning Associate. Joseph will be assisting coowners Dustin R. Granger, CFP® and Danielle Granger Nava, CFP® with client relations, creating financial plans and client acquisition.

Darbonne graduated from Barbe High School, received a B.S. in Management from Louisiana State University, and received a Masters in Business Administration from University of New Orleans with a concentration in finance & economics. Darbonne has recently acquired both his Series 7, held through LPL Financial and his Series 66, held through GWM Advisors. A Lake Charles native, Darbonne was raised in a large family of business and health professionals who happen to all be musicians. He is the co-lead singer, alongside his wife, Dominique Darbonne, in the local band The Flamethrowers, which is a 9-piece band that was formed in 2004. For more information, visit www.toujoursplanning.com. SOWELA Professor Named Southern Business Education Association (SBEA) Post-Secondary Teacher of the Year Marie Coleman, Ph.D., Assistant Professor in SOWELA’s College of Business & Applied Marie Coleman Technology, was recently honored with the Southern Business Education Association (SBEA) Post-Secondary Teacher of the Year award for outstanding contributions to business education. In addition, she was elected to serve as the SBEA President during 2020. As SBEA President, Coleman will oversee the program of work, appoint committee members, and work closely with the National Business Education Association (NBEA) president and executive director to increase membership and promote business education to middle, secondary and postsecondary students. For more information, visit www.sowela.edu.

Happy Holidays

IMAGE MATTERS | 4845 Ihles Road, Lake Charles | (337) 312-0972 | ehealthyimage.com U. S. CHAMBER TOP 100 SMALL BUSINESS • SWLA CHAMBER SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR • LA DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT REGIONAL SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

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Style & Beauty

r a e W ! t u it O

Dressing for Every Holiday Occasion

by Emily Alford

The holidays are upon us, which means getting closets ready for a mad dash to parties, work functions, school events, family gatherings, and meetups with outof-town friends. Here is a guide to staying stylish during the non-stop revelry of the holiday season.

T he office holiday party Office holiday parties can be tricky because often, they are not quite dressy, not quite casual, and very frequently take place on a Friday after work. In order to gussy up your nine-to-five business wear just enough to look partyappropriate, Rhonda Kleckley, owner of Accessory Zone in Lake Charles, recommends a focus on . . . accessories! “Change your look from professional to party simply by adding a piece of statement jewelry, different footwear, or a festive handbag.” Kleckley also suggests adding a touch of velvet, satin, or snakeskin print to a camisole, kimono, blazer, or footwear. Another option for looking well dressed without being too dressy is leather. Leather pants have come a long way since their rockn-roll days. Current versions feature a paper bag waist or pleats, making them appropriate office wear with a festive twist.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • December 2019

T he semi-formal holiday event For semi-formal or formal parties, Kleckley says “you can never go wrong with the classic little black dress.” But colors are also trending, especially hues of green such as olive, hunter, pistachio, and teal. Jewel tones such as plum, amethyst, burgundy, and merlot are also on trend. Some of the boldest sequined holiday dresses are minis featuring long sleeves and structured shoulders. The look is bold, retro, and fun. Make it modern by keeping hair sleek and makeup simple—let the sequins make the statement. For jewelry, Kleckely says pearls are back! “Incorporate pearls with hair clips and teardrop or chandelier earrings.”

T he family affair Fans of staying comfy while getting social are in luck because this year, options for cozy velvet abound. Pull on a pair of stretchy velvet pants with a simple sweater and a denim jacket and you’ve got a look that is ready-made for stretching out in front of a fire with a glass of eggnog. Or pair a velvet top with a favorite pair of jeans for a look that’s casual but well put-together. Kleckley says sweaters are big this year, literally, as in chunky, whether crops or tunics. Oversized turtlenecks or mock-turtlenecks with bigger, almost batwing, sleeves are also a stylish holiday look perfect for staying warm this season. Pair with a pencil skirt or slim pants, or try them with this season’s trendy wide-leg jeans for a look that’s slightly 70s and very cool. According to Kleckley, coordinated family outfits are also a hit, perfect for those holiday photos!

T he last minute invite No matter how carefully you plan your holiday, a last minute party, recital, or quick catchup with out of town friends is bound to pop up. In order to expect the unexpected, why not invest in a velvet blazer to go with those velvet pants? Wear the blazer with jeans and a plain top or sweater to more casual meetups or the full suit for dinners and parties. The most important part of holiday gatherings is having fun, so make sure whatever outfit you choose is both comfortable and makes you feel great, says Kleckley. “You can be fashionable by incorporating a trend, but make it your own style.”

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Style & Beauty

M AY L E A N E W A R R I VA L AT P R I E N L A K E M A L L by Stefanie Powers

A NEW SHOP HAS POPPED UP IN THE PRIEN L AKE MALL, JUST IN TIME FOR THE HOLIDAYS.

Maylea opened its doors this past October. With stores in Baton Rouge at the Mall of Louisiana, and Lafayette at the Acadiana Mall Lake Charles is its third location. Maylea specializes in unique backpacks for children and adults, along with wallets, purses, totes and duffel bags. “All of our bags are made from PU leather,” says sales manager Sam Yu. This is a synthetic material that is made to look like leather, but costs much less. It’s artificial leather made with split leather (the fibrous part of the hide left over from making genuine leather), which has been coated with polyurethane. “What sets us apart from other retailers is that we offer complimentary personalized monogram/leather embossing with each purchase,” Wu says. “It’s all done on the spot within 15 to 20 minutes. This means the customer can simply wait in the store, or shop around and come back later to pick up their bag. Maylea is the only store that offers this service.”

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • December 2019

Wu says that their bags are all designed in-house and manufactured specifically for their brand. “All of the bags are unique in design and better yet, very affordable. Our prices range from $19.99 to $69.99 for standard bags and purses. Our signature travel duffel bags start at $89.99 up to $109.99. And, we also offer a 90-day warranty with all purchases.” These aren’t your ordinary backpacks. They’re sleek and classy, and come in a variety of sizes, shapes and colors. Whatever your taste, there appears to be something for everyone. Along with their storefronts, Maylea has a website where you can browse their merchandise and order online. It also showcases new arrivals, along with sales items, and you’ll receive a 10 % discount coupon when you place your first order. And yes, you can get your online purchase monogrammed at no extra charge.

Despite their strong online presence, Wu says most of their customers shop in their stores, due to the uniqueness of their business. “We will be running Christmas specials, which we will announce on social media, so keep checking our Facebook page.” With affordable prices and so many styles, sizes and colors to choose from, there’s bound to be a few people on your Christmas list who will appreciate a gift from Maylea. Check them out at the mall, visit their Facebook page, or go to www.shopmaylea.com.

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Style & Beauty

Defending Your Skin

against Colder Weather by Lauren Morris

Winter can wreak havoc on your skin no matter where you live, but the steps needed to keep your face both resilient and brilliant through a dewy Louisiana winter differ from those of our frozen northern neighbors. “There is no one-size-fits-all formula for winter-proofing your skin,” says Jennifer Lemons, licensed aesthetician and owner of Dermalogix Salon and Day Spa. While many skin care products address the harsh conditions of snow, sleet, and burning winds, traditionally accepted treatments can potentially do more harm than good for those of us spending part of the winter in short sleeves. “As long as you’re appropriately using sunscreen, living in Louisiana has tremendous skin benefits. The year-long humidity makes the face more supple,” says Lemons. “It’s important to let your skin breathe. Commonly practiced winter skincare followed in more northern regions, such as applying heavy night creams and lotions, while rich in nutrients and antioxidants, can sometimes clog the pores, potentially triggering acne breakouts or sallow skin.”

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • December 2019

LEMONS OFFERS SOME SIMPLE TIPS FOR WINTER-PROOFING YOUR SKIN:

Do not leave the house without applying sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. The damaging effects of the sun’s UV rays do not decrease during the winter months. Don’t forget to moisturize! Dry, heated indoor air can dry out your skin in the winter and extra moisturizer may be needed. If you’re prone to dry skin, a humidifier may help as well. Choose a water-based hydrator or natural essential oil instead of creams. These can deliver the same health effects as creams, but without blocking pores. A tea tree oil is a great choice for a nighttime hydrator. If you’re experiencing an acne breakout, applying a very small amount of oil to your nighttime cleanser can help. However, if the acne persists it’s important to see your skin care specialist.

Avoid lotion-based masks. Gel and clay masks are a better choice. These purify and deeply clean the pores. Take warm showers. Note the keyword here: “warm.” Hot showers will strip your skin of the natural oils it needs to stay lubricated. Speaking of showers, make sure you’re using soap that is free of perfumes, antibacterial components, or deodorants. Drink water! This is a big one. We typically remember to drink water in the hotter months because it cools us off, but you need it just as much in the winter. Drink at least eight glasses a day to reap the full benefits. Water is good for skin for many reasons, but one key thing it does is help your body with the production of the essential lubricating oils that will keep your skin supple throughout the cold winter months.

Show Off

Winter is a great time to pamper your skin, to repair sun damage from months in the sun. Try a rejuvenating facial treatment, or a customized treatment for any skin care issues you are experiencing. Home care matters! Using the right products at home is a critical component of good skin care. Follow these simple tips and keep your skin glowing through the new year! Have questions or want to learn more about winter proofing your skin? Call Dermalogix at (337) 477-1195 or visit dermalogixspa.com.

Your Legs this Holiday Season

There’s nothing very merry about spider veins, so get rid of them, with advanced sclerotherapy treatments at the Vein Center of Southwest Louisiana. All treatments are performed by our experienced clinical staff, under the medical direction of Dr. Carl Fastabend, the only full-time vein specialist in Louisiana. Call today for more information.

veincenterswla.com l 711 Dr. Michael DeBakey Dr., Ste. 100 l 312-VEIN

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Home & Family

OUR

2019 GIFT GUIDE

Memorable Experiences Make the Best Gifts by Angie Kay Dilmore

Thrive Magazine for Better Living â&#x20AC;˘ December 2019

When gift buying, you want to keep in mind the people you give gifts to. What do they like to do, what are their hobbies, what gift will suit their unique personality? A current trend is to give the gift of an experience that will create a lasting memory, rather than a material store-bought gift.

Studies have shown that material possessions do not equal happiness and that experiences are much more intrinsically fulfilling than things. One explanation -- we adapt to physical things, so even the nicest car or newest phone becomes commonplace after enough time, while memories tend to get fonder over time. And no need to stand in the return line after Christmas if an item doesn’t fit or otherwise doesn’t suit a recipient. Plus, you don’t have to find a place to store experiences except in your heart, memory, and maybe in a photo album. An experience gift can be fulfilling for both the giver and receiver, especially if they enjoy the experience together. Going to the movies as a family, taking a painting class, making pottery, learning to scuba dive, or simply receiving a homemade spa day … these can be priceless memories that last a lifetime. We offer a few tips here to spark your imagination.

Children •

THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM, Lake Charles, is both fun and educational, with science as a central theme.

•

ZOOSIANA ZOO OF ACADIANA, Lafayette, is home to over 750 animals and 130 species.

•

WATER PARKS are great fun for kids. Numerous local parks have water features, Sulphur has SPAR, and the casinos have worldclass pools. But if you’re looking for something bigger, there’s SCHLITTERBAHN in Galveston and BLUE BAYOU in Baton Rouge.

•

GIVE A BOOKLET with twelve coupons for a day at a park once a month. Or gift cards to movie theaters, favorite restaurants, ALTITUDE TRAMPOLINE PARK, PETRO BOWL, or MINIATURE GOLF. If you do give a material gift, make the giving itself a fun experience with a TREASURE HUNT. Instead of wrapping the gift, wrap up a clue that leads to other clues and let the child go on a mystery adventure to find the gift (or figure out what it is and go with you to enjoy it). This is especially fun for larger gifts or experiences!

NEED HELP WITH YOUR HOLIDAY PLANS?

HOLIDAY LOAN SPECIAL NOW THRU JANUARY 31, 2020 Our members enjoy many benefits. If you live, work, worship or attend school in Calcasieu Parish, you are eligible to join.

Experience the credit union difference!

Sulphur • Westlake • Lake Charles 337-533-1808 • www.access.coop Federally Insured by NCUA

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Gift Guide

Families or Individuals •

•

BANNERS AT MCNEESE – Banners offers several levels of season membership. Purchase by Dec. 13 and Banners will send a packaged membership gift for under your loved one’s Christmas tree. 337-475-5123 or www.banners.org. BALLET OR OTHER DANCE PERFORMANCES – There’s still time to buy tickets to the Lake Charles Civic Ballet presentation of Christmas in Louisiana – Once Upon a Time, Dec. 12-13. See www. lakecharlescivicballet.com for details. Or promise tickets to Lake Area Ballet Theatre’s Spring Gala on March 28, 2020, www.lakeareaballettheatre.com. LAKE CHARLES SYMPHONY – Two performances remain in this season: Valentine’s concert, Feb. 14 (dinner included) and the Spring Concert, Apr. 18. www.lcsymphony.com, 337-433-1611.

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ESCAPE ROOMS are a fun adventure for friends and families. CUTTHROAT CAVERN is one of eight or so escape rooms at THE 13TH GATE in Baton Rouge and is currently rated #2 in the world (#1 in the U.S.) If you prefer this type of entertainment closer to home, try ESCAPE ROOM LOUISIANA and BAYOU ESCAPE ROOMS in Lake Charles.

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THEATER TICKETS (either for an individual show or a season subscription) are great gifts for those who love onstage drama or comedy. There are several local theater companies in Lake Charles, as well as in Sulphur, DeRidder, and Jennings.

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BOARD GAMES may be considered material gifts but a regular family game night can certainly create memorable experiences. Same goes for JIGSAW PUZZLES.

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PAINTING WITH A TWIST or THE ART FACTORY can ignite creativity by making art together.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • December 2019

Ladies •

EVERY GIRL enjoys a bit of pampering now and then. Buy her a gift card to a DAY SPA, NAIL SALON, or HAIR SALON.

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OR TAKE HER SHOPPING. Head east to Gonzales and visit Tanger Outlet Mall or west to Houston’s Galleria.

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MAYBE SHE LOVES TO TRAVEL. Take a road trip, hop on a plane, or take a train to someplace she’s never been before.

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GIRLS ALSO LOVE GREAT FOOD. Promise to take her out to eat once a month at any of Southwest Louisiana’s finest dining establishments.

Guys •

NATIONAL SPORTING EVENTS are becoming more common in the Lake Area, thanks in part to the efforts of the Lake Charles/ SWLA Convention and Visitors Bureau. The 2020 U.S. OLYMPIC TEAM TRIALS FOR BOXING will be held at the Lake Charles Civic Center on Dec. 7-15, 2019, with the finals taking place at the Golden Nugget Lake Charles Hotel. The NEW BALANCE FUTURE STARS SERIES NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS BASEBALL TOURNAMENT will be in Southwest Louisiana over four weeks beginning June 30, 2020. The PGA KORN FERRY TOUR LAKE CHARLES GOLF TOURNAMENT will debut at Golden Nugget Lake Charles, March 23-29, 2020. And the PRO WATERCROSS NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS will be held at North Beach on August 8-9, 2020.

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HOME BREWING KITS can certainly make for some interesting experiences. Visit THE BREW SHOP at 2915 Common St., Lake Charles.

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GO SKYDIVING with CAJUN SKYDIVING CENTER in Jennings. Or ROCK CLIMBING, HIKING, CAMPING, KAYAKING OR CANOEING, FISHING or HUNTING. It’s all about making memories!

BICYCLES & ACCESSORIES

– Kid Bikes – Cruisers – Neighborhood Bikes – Road Bikes & Triathlon Bikes – Trikes

615 E. Prien Lake Road, Lake Charles (337) 474-9090

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Up to 50% off on green tag past year model bikes!

Find the best bike for your budget and lifestyle! WE HOLD BIKES UNTIL CHRISTMAS EVE – HOLIDAY LAYAWAY AVAILABLE

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Home & Family

SHOP

LOCAL

this Holiday Season! Local business owners have a tremendous impact on their local economy. For perspective, there are 23 million small businesses in the United States, having grown by 49% since 1982. Small businesses donate 250% more than larger businesses to non-profits and community causes. When you spend $100 at a local business, approximately $68 stays in your local economy, whereas when you spend the same amount of money at a larger business, only $43 stays in your local economy.

When doing your holiday shopping, we encourage you to support Southwest Louisiana businesses. While it would be impossible to list all area retail businesses in this space, here is a list to get you started.

General:

Corner Market -- 729 Ryan St. Greengate Garden Center -- 4226 Lake St. Crave -- 2801 Ryan St #100 McNeese Center for Advancement of Meat Production and Processing (CAMPP) -- McNeese SEED Center or Gayle Hall, Room 121

Artsy Gifts:

Alexander Art Studio -- 900 Ryan St #102. Flock of Five Gift and Art Emporium -- 217 E Thomas St, Sulphur The Harrington Gallery -- 210 Tamarack St, Sulphur

Spiritual Gifts:Â

Crossroads Bookstore -- 601 W Prien Lake Rd Christian Book Store -- 329 W Prien Lake Rd

For her:

Expressions -- 3204 Ryan St. Accessory Zone -- 2910 Ryan St. Mimosa Boutique -- 3125 Ernest St. Queen of Thread Monogramming -- 4031 Nelson Rd.

For him:

Iron Shop Provisions -- 625 Broad St. Gator Outfitters -- 1301 W McNeese St Suite 107 Gift card to any of the local barbershops, ie Barbers on Broad (102 W Broad St) or ManCave (1301 E McNeese St #101)

Thrive Magazine for Better Living â&#x20AC;˘ December 2019

For kids:

Pink and Blue Avenue -- 4070 Nelson Rd #900 Sercy Lane Children’s Boutique -- 3101 Ernest St Suite 1 Tres Jolie Boutique -- 2508 Ryan St.

Spirits and Coffee:

When Santa’s Sleigh Just Won’t Do, We’re Here for You. Neighborhood Mini Storage is your One-stop Shop for Holiday Storage, Shipping and More!

The Wine Store -- 4402 Nelson Rd Building 2 Lake Street Liquor -- 4336 Lake St. Hokus Pokus Liquors -- 1915 Country Club Rd. Crying Eagle Brewing -- 1165 E McNeese St. Acadian Coffee Roasters -- 2908 Hodges St.

Sweet Stuff:

The Bekery -- 206 W 11th St. Cipi’s Cake Box -- 520 W McNeese St. Jo’s Party House -- 1930 Ethel St. Sweet Chic Cupcakes -- 909 Sam Houston Jones Pkwy, Moss Bluff Sweets and Treats -- 411 Ryan St. Great Harvest Bread Company -- 4112 Lake St #100 Pronia’s Deli and Bakery -- 3021 Kirkman St.

e ift Giv the G

Hide your holiday gifts from curious eyes in one of our three convenient locations. We can also help with getting your special deliveries shipped safely in time for the holiday. We have all the packing supplies you need, and we’re an authorized UPS and FedEx shipment center. STORAGE Regular & climate-controlled storage Variety of unit sizes Month-to-month lease options Secure, 24-hour access

SHIPPING/MOVING Boxes & moving supplies Shipping services: UPS & Fed Ex U-Haul equipment rental

MINI STORAGE BOX & SHIP neighborhoodministorage.com

y o f Ho l i d a r Chee

Lake Charles 474.8800 | 210 West Sale Rd. Sulphur 626.0000 | 460 Post Oak Rd. Locally Owned & Operated Since 1940

Largest selection of wine, spirits, beer & cigars!

Moss Bluff 855.3000 | 716 Sam Houston Jones Pkwy.

Gift Cards Available

THE PERFECT CUSTOM GIFT FOR ANY OCCASION!

1915 Country Club Road, Lake Charles, LA 70605 •

337-474-0447 thriveswla.com

Home & Family

e t a r b Cele

s a r G i d r a M ON THE SKI SLOPES OF COLORADO by Andrea Guthmann

Do Mardi Gras crowds make you want to run for the hills? How about celebrating Fat Tuesday in the mountains this year? Let the good times roll at one of these fabulous Colorado ski resorts. Whether you’re in it for the top runs or the hot toddies, we’ve got just the lift you need. Some resorts even come with their own mountain town version of Mardi Gras mayhem!

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • December 2019

ARAPAHOE BASIN photo by Ian Zinner

Cabins at YMCA of the Rockies Snow Mountain Ranch photo by Snow Mountain Ranch

Breckenridge Settled in the 1859 Gold Rush, Breckenridge has the feel of a vintage Western movie. After a day on the slopes, warm up by the wood burning stove at The Gold Pan Saloon, which has the oldest liquor license west of the Mississippi. This charming old mining town becomes a party town every year at Mardi Gras, giving the Big Easy a run for its money. This year’s Fat Tuesday Street Party is planned for Feb. 25. Previous street parties have included free hurricane drinks, gumbo, live music, fire dancers and larger-than-life street puppets, so expect the town’s Main Street to be packed with partiers. Gather along the fenced route to catch incoming beads from participating floats in the Mardi Gras Parade.

Arapahoe Basin There’s a flurry of great mountains, but the most convenient, affordable option is flying into Denver and choosing a nearby ski resort. One of the closest, just 90 minutes from the Denver airport, is an old-school favorite with locals. Arapahoe Basin often has the longest ski season in Colorado. In fact, this year they were the first ski resort to open in the country, on October 11. Fly into Denver in the morning, and you can be on the slopes in the afternoon. A-Basin, as it’s commonly known, isn’t as built up as some of its nearby cousins. But what it lacks in apres-ski, it makes up for on its scenic slopes.

Now Enrolling 7-9th Grade

Upper and Middle School

5665 North Gray Market Drive, Lake Charles, LA 70605 337-433-5246 episcopaldayschool.org

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Home & Family

photo by Copper Mountain Ski Resort

Winter Park Worried about driving on icy mountain roads? Hop on the Winter Park Express train, going directly from Denver’s Union Station to the platform at Winter Park, just steps from ski lifts. The introduction in 2016 of Denver’s A line rail service linking the airport to Union Station, means you’ll never need a rental car or cab. The Winter Park Express train runs on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, with tickets starting at $29. Tickets sell out way in advance, so book early. Once you’ve had time to enjoy the slopes, have lunch atop Winter Park Mountain at Sunspot, with its breathtaking views. Mardi Gras revelers can meet up at the party tent at the base of the ski mountain, where they’ll have special drinks and a cajuninspired menu, street performers, and live music. Looking for a milder way to take the chill off? Apres-ski at Goody’s Mountain Creperie. Where to stay? A unique, budget-friendly lodging alternative for larger groups is the YMCA of the Rockies Snow Mountain Ranch, 20 minutes from Winter Park’s slopes. Lodging ranges from standard rooms in the lodge to rustic 5-bedroom vacation homes. Plus, there’s a flurry of activities for all ages, including cross country skiing, sledding, tubing, ice skating and snowshoeing. If you’re looking to save money, Snow Mountain Ranch offers cafeteria style meals that are a whole lot cheaper than eating on the mountain. YMCA members receive $15 off per night on lodging.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • December 2019

Copper Mountain Skiing with kids? Check out Copper’s “One, Two, Free!” promotion—kids under 12 ski free with an adult who’s bought a two-day ticket. Plus, stay two nights at any one of Copper’s lodging villages, and the third night is free. Another cost saver? Copper offers soft goods rentals. That means you won’t have to invest in ski pants, jackets, gloves, and all those cold weather comforts Louisianans are blessed to rarely ever need! There’s plenty to do off the slopes at Copper Mountain, as well. Got an extreme skier or snow boarder, but don’t want an extreme injury? Practice nailing those new tricks at Woodward at Copper, an indoor practice facility where foam pits soften rough landings. Instructors at Woodward will give your powderhound a crash course in how to take their sport to the next level safely. photo by Copper Mountain Ski Resort

photo by Jack Affleck

Beaver Creek, Colorado Two hours west of Denver, Beaver Creek is one of Colorado’s poshest powder spots. Freshly baked cookies offered at the mountain’s base each afternoon are a sweet reward after a day spent enjoying breathtaking views and great runs. The Pines Lodge, a ski-in/ski-out boutique hotel decorated in alpine chic, is perfect for a romantic getaway. Its elegant Grouse Mountain Grill, specializing in farm-to-table Colorado-centric cooking, has floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Beaver Creek Valley. After dinner, soak in the scenery from the hot tub, perched high above the surrounding pines and aspens.

Beaver Creek photo by Beaver Creek Ski Resort

Your home for the holidays awaits. If you’re dreaming of a new home this holiday season, CENTURY 21 Bessette Realty, Inc. has the keys you need. Our experienced agents will make a list and check it twice so all of your wishes come true. And don’t worry, we’ll give Santa your new address!

Century21-Bessette.com | 474-2185 3025 Lake Street, Lake Charles Each office independently owned and operated. Licensed by the Louisiana Real Estate Commission.

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Home & Family

Whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Minding the Kids? TIPS FOR CHOOSING A GREAT SITTER by Keaghan P. Wier

Thrive Magazine for Better Living â&#x20AC;˘ December 2019

With the holiday season upon us, many parents will be searching for reliable babysitters for parties and events. If you have never hired a babysitter, the process can be overwhelming. When you set expectations and prepare to hire a babysitter, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Where to Find a Great Babysitter So, how do you find a reliable, fantastic babysitter for your kids?

WORD OF MOUTH:

As with any recommendation, word of mouth can be a great tool. If you have friends who use a regular babysitter, ask them. Ask around your church to see if anyone has a recommendation or if there are any teens interested. If you know any local college students, see if they’d be willing to babysit.

AGE OF BABYSITTER:

Are you hiring a friend’s teenager, or an adult with childcare experience? A high schooler will likely be cheaper than a certified adult, but if you are anxious about leaving your children, your peace of mind may be worth hiring someone with more experience.

NUMBER OF KIDS:

How many kids do you have, and how old are they? Infant care requires different tasks than watching school-age children; and juggling both requires extra attention and multitasking.

SETTING YOUR BOUNDARIES:

Do you expect the sitter to do light housework? Complete a specific bedtime routine? Are they allowed to have a friend come over after the kids go to sleep? Will you provide them with snacks? Think through these things before your sitter arrives so there

aren’t any questions. Make your expectations clear. Write down any instructions you need them to follow, wifi password, phone numbers, and any particular routines you need your kids to follow.

YOUR BUDGET:

Find out what is a reasonable rate for what you’re expecting and pay that amount. If you are on a tighter budget, don’t expect any “extras” like cooking, cleaning, dishes, laundry, etc. Consider offering your sitter some perks, like feeding them dinner and providing some favorite snacks for after the kids go to bed.

COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR KIDS:

Make sure your kids know what your expectations are for them, too! If the rules are the same under the sitter, tell them. If you won’t be back until after bedtime, let them know.

ONLINE:

If you don’t have any in-person resources, post on local Facebook groups and check babysitting websites and apps like Care.com, Bambino, Sitter, and Sittercity, where you can read reviews, see credentials, and evaluate who will be the best fit for your kids.

BE REALISTIC AND UNDERSTANDING:

Kids are tiny chaos machines, as any parent knows. If you arrive home and find that bedtime hasn’t gone quite right, or the dishes aren’t done because instead your sitter was holding a baby who wouldn’t be put down, be gracious. Ultimately, the babysitter’s job is to care for your children and their needs. Everything else is secondary. When all is said and done, the thing that matters most is that you find a sitter who works well with your kids and your family’s expectations. Be reasonable, be ready to pay them for their work, be choosy about who you hire, and above all, be sure that your kids are safe, loved, and happy to spend time with their new caretaker.

Landscaping Made Joyful

Happy

Holly-days

Be sure to add some holiday to your landscaping with splashes of Christmas color, such as red holly berries and evergreen shrubs. And don’t forget to add the lights! Landscaping made simple for your home.

5005 Cobra Road in Lake Charles (337) 478-3836 M-F: 7am – 4pm

landscapemanagement.org

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HAPPENINGS MARK YOUR CALENDAR!

West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital Hosts December Class for Delivery and Breastfeeding West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital will host a class on Tuesday, December 17 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on preparing for delivery and breastfeeding. The cost is $10 per participant and will be held in the North Conference Room at the Cypress Street entrance. Class space is limited, and pre-registration is required. A childbirth educator as well as a certified lactation counselor will lead the discussion and will be available for one-on-one questions. To register, call (337) 527-4361. Shots for Tots December Dates Announced West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital will offer Shots for Tots on several dates in December. On Thursday, December 12, the clinic will be held in Moss Bluff at Dynamic Dimensions East from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome, sign-in ends at 6:30 p.m. On Saturday, December 14, the clinic will be held in Sulphur at West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital near the Cypress Street entrance from 8:30 a.m. until noon. Walk-ins are welcome, sign-in ends at 11:30 a.m.

Shots for Tots offers immunizations for children six weeks of age through 18 years of age who are uninsured, underinsured, or have Medicaid, or are American Indian/Alaskan native. The cost is $10 per person. For more information, call (337) 527-4361. Holiday Art Market Scheduled Located throughout historic Central School, the annual Holiday Art Market will return December 13-15 with an array of fine and handmade items created by Louisiana artists, along with student arts and music performances, bakery treats, and a creative shopping experience. Times for this festive shopping event are as follows: Friday, December 6, 3:00p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Saturday, December 7, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Sunday, December 8, 12:00p.m. to 5:00p.m. Admission is free.

Christmas Strolls Scheduled Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center will once again usher in the Christmas season with Christmas Strolls. Colorful displays throughout the gardens along with lighted communitydecorated Christmas trees will welcome visitors. You are cordially invited to come out for a leisurely stroll through our illuminated landscapes and celebrate the holiday season. Christmas Strolls run from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. during the evenings of December 7, December 11, 12, 13, 14 and December 18, 19, 20 and 21, 2019. Admission is free.

A Very Merry Christmas Party for Senior Citizens Scheduled Entergy, The City of Lake Charles and Calcasieu Council on Aging will host its Annual Very Merry Christmas Party for Senior Citizens on Wednesday, December 18 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Lake Charles Civic Center Exhibition Hall. Registration begins at 8:00 a.m. Music, Dancing and Entergy Bingo with over $500.00 in prizes will fill the day with Christmas Cheer. A continental breakfast and a full Christmas lunch with all the trimmings will be served. All Calcasieu Parish Senior Citizens 60 and over are invited to attend this free event and enjoy the day’s festivities.

Email or Text Notification when your RX is ready!

ThriftyWay PHARMACY #2

Friendly service from your home town pharmacy. • Citywide Delivery Service • Drive-Thru Pick-Up Window • E-Mail and Call in RX Service

For more information call (337) 439-2787.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • December 2019

601 S. Pine Street • DeRidder, LA 70634 • (337) 463-7442 www.thriftyway.com • thriftyway2@thriftyway.com

Solutions for Life

from Solutions Counseling & EAP by Keri Forbess-McCorquodale, MS, LPC, LMFT, CEAP

‘Cause You’ve Got To Have Friends! If you’re not singing based solely on the title of this article, we may not be able to be friends (ha!). Many of you are already singing, “La, la, la, la, la.” I’ve always loved that light-hearted song! And the song is right. We do have to have friends. For so many reasons. We are social creatures. Simply put, we do better when we have people in our lives with whom we are regularly spending time. I always ask my clients “who can you count on”, “who do you have fun with” or “when is the last time you spent time with friends?” The majority of the time, I am told, “oh, I haven’t talked to my friends in a while.” There is a definite trend that people entering counseling have already isolated themselves. I think many times, the client is not feeling happy, and doesn’t want to bring everyone else down. Other times, the client doesn’t want to appear as though they are not OK – they just don’t want anyone to see them being vulnerable. And still others are so stressed and trying to survive, just getting through the day is almost unbearable and the thought of having to talk to someone is completely overwhelming. So, I educate my clients “Now, is EXACTLY the time you need to get together with your friends! They care about you. They want to know that things aren’t going so great right now, so they can be there for you. AND, you will feel better!”

Why does spending time with friends make us feel better? Well, we get to remember that no matter what, we are worthy of love and relationships. We get to take a break from our cares and woes for a while. And, we get to feel like we are not going through this life alone. People who are dealing with depression are much more likely to become suicidal when they are isolated. Alternatively, you may feel depressed, but as long as you are spending time with friends, the darkness isn’t quite so bad. Now, choosing friends is a skill you need to make sure you have. How is your friend-picker? Do you choose people who are uplifting and positive? Do you spend time with people who are making good choices in their own lives? Being with people who are negative and not living life in a healthy way generally brings us down even further. Take a look at your friend group. The nature of your relationship is also very important. I’ve noticed that with my healthiest friendships, we seem to take turns on the ups and downs of the roller coaster of life. When I need them, they are strong and doing well. When they need me, I’m feeling

pretty good about where I am in life. This is important because the strong friends can help the friends who are struggling. We can take turns in sharing the load of life. Every now and then, my friends and I seem to be on the same roller coaster – we are all up or we are all down. During those “down” times, we just hold hands and get through it together. And when we are all up, we cheer each other on! What if you don’t have good, healthy friends? Go find some! I know, easier said than done. However, the more involved you are with the causes you are passionate about, the more likely you are to meet people who share your enthusiasm – i.e. potential friends! And, even if you don’t find friends immediately, at least you got out of the house and did an activity you enjoyed. (What a social thing to do, you social creature!) As you are reading this, we are in the throes of the holidays. I am hopeful you will give yourself a gift this season. Reach out to your friends. Or, find some new friends. Purposefully build in some time to be with them. We are not designed to be alone. We are designed to be with others, help others, and share the load.

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Thank You

We’d like to thank the non-profit, elected officials, community and business leaders, and the people of Southwest Louisiana for your devotion to making a positive difference in our communities. Ainsley’s Angels American Cancer Society American Heart Association Arts & Crabs Autism Society Big Brothers Big Sisters of SWLA Boy Scouts of America Boys Village Foundation Brimstone Historical Society Calcasieu Parish School Board CARC Care Help of Sulphur Chamber SWLA Chem Expo Chennault International Airshow Children’s Miracle Network CHRISTUS Ochsner SWLA Foundation Chuck Fest City of Lake Charles City of Sulphur Colors for a Cause Community Foundation of SWLA

Down Syndrome Association of SWLA Eljay Foundation for Parkinson Awareness Families Helping Families of SWLA Family & Youth Counseling Agency Habibi Shriners HALOS Holden’s Hope Forever Imperial Calcasieu Museum Junior Achievement Lake Charles Symphony Literacy Council of SWLA Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities Louisiana Trooper’s Charities - Troop D Louisiana Winter Beer Festival McNeese State University Mothers Against Drunk Driving Muscular Dystrophy Association NAMI National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Oasis A Safe Haven Project Build a Future Rotary International

Second Harvest Smile Moore SOWELA Technical Community College Special Olympics St. Nicholas Center for Children Stine Sulphur Christian Community Coalition Sulphur Senior Center SWLA Center for Health Services The Children’s Museum of Lake Charles The Ethel Precht HOPE Breast Cancer Foundation The Nature Conservancy The Salvation Army Tournament of the Stars United Way of SWLA Vibe 105 Foundation Waste Management West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital Foundation West Calcasieu Chamber of Commerce Whistle Stop Women’s Commission of SWLA

Corporate social responsibility is a core CITGO value woven throughout our many community programs and employee volunteer efforts. In 2019, CITGO employees volunteered at more than 40 community events and contributed more than 2,800 volunteer hours to the great local causes and non-profit organizations listed above.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from all of us at CITGO.

Thrive Magazine for Better Living • December 2019