contents JANUARY 2018
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spotlight 6 HOME
Refresh Your Home
8 WHAT WORKS
To Communicate and for Glowing Skin
8 BEFORE YOU GO
Her Go-To Breakfast — That’s Also Nutritional
features 12 WORK WARDROBE
Dressing to Connect
12 LOVE ABOUT Her Smart Geek-Chic Style
14 26 THINGS
Happenings, news and tidbits that caught Today’s Woman’s eye this month
10 HEALTH
“I had a tiny Sharpie (marker) dot on the back of my leg that was black.”
10 HELP
24 WHAT’S SHE READING, WATCHING
Giving to Those Who Help Themselves
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How the Girl Who Thought School was Dumb Became a Ph.D.
30 WHAT I AM WEARING This Month: Comfort
30 PASSIONS
Capturing Louisville
52 FOOD
Low-Carb Instant Pot Taco Spaghetti Squash
22 Best Bodies — Jourdan Hahn
Why she believes fitness makes her healthier.
26 Celebrate the New Year Disco Style! A home interior makeover.
54 TRAVEL
28 Touring Her New City in Running Shoes
56 CELEBRATIONS
32 Best For You
My three sons + a 2,000-mile road trip
Mariana Sanders and Joe Epperson
Nine local businesses offering services that were voted Best for You.
Today’s Woman / Jan 2018
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DO YOU NEED SOME GLAM?
JANUARY 2018 • VOL. 28 / NO. 2 JULY 2017 • VOL. 27 / NO. 8 PUBLISHER Cathy S. Zion PUBLISHER publisher@todayspublications.com Cathy S. Zion
publisher@todayspublications.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Anita Oldham EDITOR-IN-CHIEF editor@todayspublications.com Anita Oldham editor@todayspublications.com EDITOR Tiffany EDITORWhite tiffany@todayspublications.com Tiffany White
‘TODAY’ IS A GREAT DAY
PHOTO: MIRANDA POPP
Today I will meet someone new. Today I will be brave. Today I will be decisive. Today I will exercise. Today I will choose wisely. Today, I will be my whole self.
tiffany@todayspublications.com CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Lucy M. PritchettEDITORS CONTRIBUTING
COMING SOON Find out more about how we are Seizing Today at Local TV journalist Today’s and motherMedia! of two, Shannon Cogan, makes a daily transformation to be TV-glam read — even if she comes from a crazy day of playing ball in the backyard.
Get inspired to try something new We take the word “today” seriously. Our magazine is about to pamper yourself women, but it is also about what you can do to make the most or to make you feel of today. If you are feeling like you don’t know what to do like a better you. next, go to TodaysWomanNow.com to get inspired. It is about women Seizing the Day — or Seizing the (To)day. Those of us at Today’s Woman are working to Seize the whole Today. We are gathering our media resources to build a better Today under the name Today’s Media. In thisThis issuewill we confront a different oday’s Woman is always about being allow us to offer expanded coverage and services that—further comfort zone it is about taking your best self — your most relaxed combine Today’s Woman, Today’s Transitions, Family, a stepToday’s into the world of beauty self, your most confident self, your TodaysWomanNow.com, and TodaysTransitionsNow.com. treatments. Whether it becomes a most healthy self. Sometimes that takes With a larger megaphone to inspire this community, it’s regular maintenance routine you do a daring jump into a new lifestyle or a better for you, whether you are a reader, a client, or both. for yourself or a one-time treat, a little brave step into a new career. We know it Anita about Oldhamwhat is inside your glamour can change how you feel and is always— more think about yourself. Be a Glam Girl mind than outside your head, but at the and yourself at the same time. same time, we know that sometimes you should take a minute for yourself. — Anita Oldham
T
ON THE COVER: ON THE COVER: Laura Patterson is making waves with a
Jourdanswimsuit Hahn had a life-changing experience when she line any woman can wear. Find embraced a regular fitness routine. Read about more about how she’s doing it on pagewhat 6. she’s doing on page 22. Photo: Sunni Wigginton
Photo: Melissa Donald Hair and Makeup: Amber Schnobrich, Strandz Salon & Threadz Boutique Styling: Aubrey Hillis
Lucy M. Pritchett Miranda G. Popp miranda@todayspublications.com Miranda G. Popp
miranda@todayspublications.com COPY EDITOR/SR GRAPHIC DESIGNER April COPYAllman EDITOR/SENIOR DESIGNER april@todayspublications.com April H. Allman
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Today’s Woman is published monthly by: Zion Publications, LLC 9750 Ormsby Station Road, Suite 307 Louisville, KY 40223 Phone: 502.327.8855 todayswomannow.com The opinions expressed herein are exclusively those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the position of the publisher. Today’s Woman magazine does not endorse or guarantee any 2017 advertiser’s product or service. Copyright 2018 by Zion Publications LLC, all rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited without permission from Zion Publications LLC.
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REFRESH YOUR HOME By Keri Foy Photos By Melissa Donald
A whole new bathroom redo can still play into a home’s style.
Jen painted her fireplace to freshen up the brick.
Jen loves to take old pieces and make them new with paint and styling.
F
or Jen Hohl, owner of Custom Refinished Decor, the trek of her calling began on Oak Street in Old Louisville. She and her husband Dean rented an office in a building that housed not only their offices, but also three apartments. During those adventures in property management, Jen learned the art of painting furniture. This self-proclaimed junk gypsy found that not only was her detail-oriented personality good at it, but there was a market for refinishing furniture. “There’s always a way to rework inherited furniture: changing out chairs, painting the table, or adding fabric,” Jen says. Jen especially enjoys the transformative nature of her work. “Seeing something that people have put out for trash and turning it into something beautiful — it’s rewarding to me,” she says. Clients have brought pieces to her that are sentimental to them, but just don’t jive in their space. “I can make it work in their home today: living beautifully is surrounding yourself with pieces of furniture that tell a story.”
Some of Jen’s ideas on adding touches of beauty to your home. Integrate conversation pieces into each room of the home. “Whether it’s an antique or artwork, it can spark a memory,” Jen says. She has many examples in her home. Bring the outdoors in with plants such as ferns, succulents, trees, and fresh-cut flowers. The back wall of her home looks out onto a lake, where the family has a dock and stores their paddleboards and a boat. A couple of hammocks grace the property. Their home is like a retreat, and their families treat it as such.
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Create a signature scent that people associate with your home. “Mine is gardenia in the spring and summer and vanilla/ cinnamon in the fall and winter.”
Use magazines and books to add a design element to your rooms. Pay attention to the lighting, such as dimmers, candles, and lamps because it sets a mood. Change your accessories often even if it is just rearranging them — “it gives you a different look, and it’s free!”
SEARCH: Jen Hohl
Today’s Woman / Jan 2018
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What Works: To Communicate and for Glowing Skin By Lucy M. Pritchett Photos by Patti Hartog
Her Go-To Breakfast — That’s Also Nutritional By Brittani Dick Photo by Sunni Wigginton
Whitney Cessna swears by a few things in life — the importance of healthy food, a good skincare line, and a great pair of shoes. “I am an absolute shoe freak,” she says. “I own more shoes than the average human should...and definitely more than my husband prefers.”
SEARCH: Anne Ensign-Urteaga
I
f you’ve ever attended one of the excellent theatrical productions put on by CenterStage at the Jewish Community Center, you have most likely seen Anne Ensign-Urteaga. She won’t be in costume singing or dancing but instead, as operations manager for the community theater, she comes on stage before the start of the show to welcome the audience and make brief announcements. CenterStage has been around in Louisville for 103 years, Anne says. It puts on five to seven shows each season. All the performers, crew, costumers, and musicians are volunteers. What helps her the most in her work is a closed Facebook group she creates for each show that the volunteers, the contractors, and the performers can go to for messages. “That has been very helpful,” she says, “as it keeps everyone up-to-date on what is happening with the show.”
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A PRODUCT SHE LOVES “This is a moisturizer with a little bit of tint that I use instead of foundation. I’ve become a big fan of Asian beauty products — the BB cream comes from Korea. I have very sensitive skin and wasn’t having much luck with American products.”
Before diving into emails from clients at her private practice (Don’t Skip A Meal, LLC) or heading off to her day job as diabetes educator in the pediatrics department at the University of Louisville, Whitney Cessna chooses from a few of her go-to breakfast staples. “Right now, I am loving Sweet Earth Farmstand Breakfast sandwiches — specifically the meatless sausage, egg, smoked gouda, and kale pesto one,” she says. “Other favorites are toasted coconut Greek yogurt with raspberries, and Nature’s Bakery stoneground whole wheat fig bars.” SEARCH: Whitney Cessna
Today’s Woman / Jan 2018
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“I HAD A TINY SHARPIE (MARKER) DOT ON THE BACK OF MY LEG THAT WAS BLACK.”
By Ashli Findley
N
Deanna has learned to cope with her diagnosis mostly through her faith and lots of prayer. “I’m choosing to not let melanoma steal my joy.”
Photo by Patti Hartog
ot leaving anything to chance, Deanna Watts, 52 at the time, went to her doctor to have the 1.1 millimeter, mole-like growth inspected and eventually removed; its testing revealed she had melanoma. That was nearly four years ago. Today, Deanna is beating stage four melanoma. Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer because it has the ability to spread to other parts of the body. In Deanna’s case, it spread to a rib bone and left hip. She was told that without treatment, her survival rate would be less than a year. She got connected with leading melanoma research doctor James Chesney at the SEARCH: UofL Brown Cancer Center Deanna Watts in Louisville and qualified to begin immunotherapy cells,” Deanna says. Although the treatment in February 2017. cancer is not completely gone, her Deanna has an appointment every recent scan in August showed even three weeks for an IV infusion with a more improvement, so she continues drug called Keytruda. The 30-minute her treatment every three weeks. process comes with fewer side effects Ask Deanna and she’ll tell you the than chemotherapy. “It amps up your own immune system to fight cancer culprit of her melanoma is dangerous
UV lighting, especially from tanning beds. In fact, exposure to tanning beds before the age of 30 increases the risk of melanoma by 75 percent, according to a study by the The International Agency for Research on Cancer Working Group.
Giving To Those Who Help Themselves By Brigid Morrissey Photo by Aubrey Hillis
“That was the key for me... accountability,” says Christie Leigh Wells, a business etiquette consultant who volunteers her time to share her knowledge with the women in the Family Scholar House program. “I have always been more than happy to give, but to give to a group of women dedicated to helping themselves — now that was a mission I could get behind.” “I ran into Helene TragerKusman and told her I had been thinking about how I could give back and make a difference to
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the women and families of our community. Helene understood the value of being empowered by professional etiquette, and we immediately devised a plan.” Helene, an academic advisor at Family Scholar House, had created a career development program and added Christie Leigh’s etiquette training to the curriculum. Inspired by her experience with Family Scholar House, Christie Lee says, “Everyone has something to teach, but most of the time, I leave feeling like I’ve done most of the learning.”
SEARCH: Christie Leigh
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Christie Leigh has instructed countless women on the importance of business dos and don’ts — from having a firm handshake to how to hold a fork during a lunch interview. “They are so eager to learn, to understand, to experience self-growth,” she says, “and are some of the strongest, most determined and kindhearted women I have ever met.”
Today’s Woman / Jan 2018
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HER SMART GEEK-CHIC STYLE Story and Photo by Miranda Popp
W
alking around the office clad in a lab coat and safety glasses are requirements, but Jennifer Chu is no ordinary chemist. She stands out not only in the office with her style, but anywhere she goes in what she defines as “geek-chic” fashion. Jennifer never wears denim because “it’s just not me,” and she often wears a statement pair of eyeglasses with her work outfits, her go-to eyeglass brands being Chanel, Burberry, Versace, and Prada. As a chemist who deals in precious oils and fragrances every day, she says “Everybody needs their signature scent!” For her, it’s Chance by Chanel, a perfume she’s been wearing since she was 20 years old.
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SEARCH: Jennifer Chu
Jennifer Chu is the director of quality control and laboratory operations at an aromatic oil trading company. Jennifer says that she “needs a ‘pop’ in every outfit,” and that can be created simply with a vibrant color or a print/pattern juxtaposed with a neutral.
Dressing to Connect By Keri Foy Photo by Sunni Wigginton
At a little over 5-foot tall, Lisa Nalley’s height has a huge impact on her style. From heels to hemming, this petite mom of two knows how to add a couple inches. And while appearing taller may be important, what’s more important to her is that she looks friendly and helpful. As the chief of staff for Rescare, a health and human services provider, Lisa identifies herself as a changemaker. Reporting to the CEO, Lisa manages floor center operations and oversees her team’s project management and strategic initiatives. A big part of her job lies in constant interaction with employees. “I need to hear from people and people need to share with me,” Lisa says. “As long as I portray that I’m receptive, people will come to me, and I can maneuver an organization to keep the business running.” She views her style as a way to bond, especially with other females, instead of a power move. “People tell me I’m approachable,” Lisa says. “I relate to people on clothes. Clothes are so much of who women are and how they show individualism. It’s a good connection piece.”
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SEARCH: Lisa Nalley
She likes to look professional with an element of fun — from polka dot patterns or a ruffle to unique buttons or belts — and she sums up her style as easy. Dresses from Banana Republic, Amazon Fashion, the outlet malls, or the sales racks at Dillard’s and Macy's are the effortless pieces to which Lisa gravitates.
Today’s Woman / Jan 2018
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26 THINGS (Why 26? Because we are 26 years old!)
Happenings, news, and tidbits that caught Today’s Woman’s eye this month By Anita Oldham
5.
A “healthy” Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip cookie recipe.
As We Start the New Year W
Read our August issue at TodaysWomanNow.com for several healthy meal ideas.
e took a look back at a few things that improved our lives this past year. If you missed any of this — spend a little time at TodaysWomanNow.com to catch up and get inspired. Search the person’s name to read any of these stories.
2 painter at 1 Ayour wedding? Read about many different types of weddings at TodaysWomanNow.com.
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3 One of the more
delicious but still healthy salads in town is The Grain Salad from Wiltshire at the Speed. Photo by Melissa Donald
4. nch Check out our Lu Plus Fun stories on m .co TodaysWomanNow gs to to find some outin nds. take with your frie
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8 2 So inspired by Carrey Dewey, who is battling ALS — read her story on TodaysWomanNow.com. Photo by Patti Hartog 6 Contributing Editor Lucy M. Pritchett has been entranced by the Moleskine notebook with dotted pages and Pentel Touch Brush pen mentioned by Kayla Wessling. Photo by Patti Hartog 7 For adventure, we’re inspired by the women who have traveled alone such as Michele Korfhage (who also took this photo). 8 Live plants help! Jen Hohl’s home in this issue (page 6), but fully featured at TodaysWomanNow.com. Photo by Melissa Donald 9 Photographer Melissa Donald tried a new locally-made skincare product: Ceela Naturals after meeting Chemist Kelly Sullivan 10 Aubrey Hillis, digital designer, was inspired by Danielle Wood to listen to a true crime podcast, My Favorite Murder. “It’s kept me laughing through a lot of the ups and downs of this past season, but also helped me learn to trust my intuition more,” says Aubrey.
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We’ve been adding new routines such as brow treatments and pedicures after the Glam issue. Read about local beauty spots all online in the July issue.
Today’s Woman / Jan 2018
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26 THINGS FIVE THINGS About Our 12
JOURDAN HAHN’S RESOLUTION FOR 2018 is “to start training for a NPC Derby Festival Championship. This was my first show ever in 2016 where I didn’t place, so my goal is to compete this year and place.”
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SHE PREPARES HER WEEK’S MEALS IN ADVANCE. Look online for her favorite recipe on TodaysWomanNow.com.
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SHE HASN’T ALWAYS BEEN SUPER FIT After gaining 30 pounds during college and then trying some unhealthy methods to lose weight, Jourdan decided to invest in a personal trainer. “This is where I fell in love with lifting.” Later after moving back to Louisville and working lots of hours, she didn’t keep her routine up. “I stopped exercising. I started to become unhappy, and I knew I needed fitness back in my life. My friend ended up taking me to her boot camp class. I got my motivation back and haven’t stopped working out since. I know fitness and healthy eating has really helped me in my life, and I hope for it to help others as well.” Read her fitness story on page 22.
Photo by Gianfranco Catullo
COVER GIRL
m 15-16
She got engaged to Zechariah Corcimiglia on September 22, 2017 in Italy. Her wedding date is November 3, 2018 at St. Bernadette church with a reception at The Pointe.
olution Make a Res ore m a e to hav Party ” d te ec n “con
SIX WAYS TO INSPIRE CONVERSATION Small talk can sometimes be awkward, so help engage others in lively conversations. Present an interesting topic to discuss or an intriguing question to start the evening off right, or rally people together with conversation starters during drinks, dinner, or dessert. These ideas can shift a gathering from scattered chitchat to group camaraderie before the feast even begins and come from Simple Gatherings by Melissa Michaels.
17 Arrange semicircles of chairs, or make sure tables have enough chairs for guests. Keep things flexible so guests can float and mingle.
18 Consider the age of your guests. An old
quilt or a blanket on the floor—or a small table—can be a great place for kids to gather. Provide comfortable chairs in easy-to-get-to spaces for older guests.
19 Wander around periodically to make sure everyone is feeling included. Connect guests who have things in common, and make as many introductions as possible. Photo by Simple Gatherings
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20 Create cozier conversation hubs for
guests who do better in smaller groups. Also, if possible, provide open gathering space for those who like to socialize in a bigger group.
21 Set out a stack of conversation cards,
interesting coffee-table books, or simple group games to serve as activities and conversation starters that offer connection opportunities and put any personality type at ease.
22 Conversation cards can help connect
everyone. Family members or longtime friends who fall into the same old topics will enjoy the interesting or funny lines of dialogue. And guests who don’t know one another will appreciate the invitation to be included.
Today’s Woman / Jan 2018
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26 THINGS 23. Another Party Idea —
Why do all the parties have to be during the holidays?
L
ooking for a goof-proof yet imaginative party activity that combines spending time together with your guests while making a tangible fun memory? These DIY paint pen bottles add a cheerful pop of color to your gathering—and brighten up your guests’ homes after the party.
• Glass bottles, clear or colored (sparkling clean)
• Flowers with long stems (to fit your glass bottles)
If you could choose the free services of a professional for a year, what would you want most: a masseuse, an accountant, a housecleaner, or a chef?
If a producer offered to sign you for any past or current reality show, which one would you be on and why?
• A variety of paint pens (display several different shades: bright and bold hues, pretty pastels, and glittering metallics)
When has a friend or loved one given you a good surprise and what was it? A gift, a compliment, a gathering?
Directions:
And as a nice bonus, your gathering now has some personalized decor.
CONVERSATION STARTERS
When you were young, what did you say you wanted to be when you grew up?
WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
1. Display the bottles, pens, and flowers on a designated crafting table. 2. Pick a pattern, design, or sweet sentiment to embellish your bottle. Make it easy for your guests by printing out some inspiration such as patterns, quotes, or favorite scriptures. 3. Share design ideas as you decorate the bottles together. 4. Add a coordinating flower to each bottle when you’re finished. Oh-so-festive!
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If you had to dine on just three foods for the rest of your life, what would you choose? Did you have a favorite birthday party growing up? What was so special about it? Taken from: Simple Gatherings: 50 Ways to Inspire Connection. Copyright © 2017 by Melissa Michaels. Published by Harvest House Publishers, Eugene, Oregon. harvesthousepublishers.com. Used by Permission. TheAuthor: Melissa Michaels is the creator of one of the popular decorating blogs, theinspiredroom.net.
What one thing would people be surprised to learn about you? What song would best describe your life?
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TWO THINGS TO PLAN FOR Women Who Wine for A Cause will celebrate their 4th Annual Cheering in the New Year Kick-off Dinner on January 24 at Louvino in Middletown. Registration is at 5:30 with dinner and program beginning at 6:00. They will announce the 2018 Organization of the Year and hear from Today’s Woman’s Cathy Zion. www4c.org. Women 4 Women’s application for 2018 grants is available until February 16. According to Misty Cruse, the organization will award more than $100,000, “bringing our 25-year giving total to more than $1.5 million.”
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What’s your favorite ice cream flavor? If you were stranded on a desert island with just three books, three movies, and three celebrities, what/who would they be? If you started a band, what kind of music would you play? What would your band be called?
Today’s Woman / Jan 2018
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Seize Today with
Today’s Media Pick up the latest issue — this is our 26th year of informing, inspiring, and encouraging women!
Today’s Media Our Today’s Transitions magazine is distributed in over 250 locations throughout Kentuckiana.
Media Today’s Media Today’s Family receives 275,000*+ digital impressions, plus 12,000 magazines delivered through local schools.
Media • Print Publications • Digital Daily Articles • Social Media • Integrated Solutions
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TodaysWomanNow.com | TodaysTransitionsNow.com *Statistics according to the CVC 2017 Audit Data Report
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Today’s Woman / Jan 2018
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JOURDAN HAHN AGE 26 JOB Humana specialist BIG WIN My most recent fitness accomplishment would be competing in my first three bikini competitions last year. Last October was my third one, and I placed third in both my classes. MOTIVATION I keep up my motivation by keeping a blog on my Instagram account. I use it not only to motivate myself to stay accountable, but I hope to also motivate others as well. I do this by sharing different workouts, food ideas, and inspirational posts. I share how being healthy is a lifestyle and you can’t do cookie cutter plans to reach your goals. WHAT SHE EATS My food choices stay pretty consistent. I consume lean meats, vegetables, fruits, and healthy fats. I try to keep track of my macro (fats, carbs, and protein) intake to insure I am incorporating the right balance of nutrients I need to fuel my body. I am not too strict when it comes to my eating habits unless I am preparing for a show. I still delve into sweets, pizza, and burgers every once in awhile. Check out her fitness turnaround on page 16.
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BEST BODIES Photo by Melissa Donald Makeup by Amber Schnobrich, Strandz Salon & Threadz Boutique
Today’s Woman / Jan 2018
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How the Girl Who Thought School was Dumb Became a Ph.D.
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t 33, Dr. Kelly Sullivan holds a Ph.D. in Biochemistry, is an Ivy League graduate, and has received several prestigious honors including Purdue University’s A.K. Balls award for excellence. Her passion for science runs so deep that she’s tattooed her favorite scientists, instruments, and formulas on her body. She breaks the mold of the stereotypical chemist, and that is all right by her. “People never believe what I do when I tell them. They can’t imagine I’m a Ph.D. To them I’m just another weirdo at the Southend Kroger,” Kelly says with a laugh. As she likes to say, referring not only to the difference between being a physician and an academic, but also to the academically elite stereotypes she bucks, “I’m not that kind of doctor.” Despite her talent in the lab, Kelly almost let it pass her by. As a high school student in Binghamton, New York, she actually skipped chemistry because she didn’t want to take it, took physics instead —and failed. She ended up graduating high school in three years with a focus in the arts. “I think everyone let me graduate early because I was such a pain in the ass. My poor parents,” Kelly explains about her rebellious youth. Kelly ended up at a local community college in New York studying graphic design and dropped out after a year.
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“I was bored and I thought school was dumb. I took a year off and waitressed instead,” Kelly says. That was until she enrolled in her second attempt at community college in Dryden, New York, just outside of Ithaca. There she took biology and was challenged and inspired for the first time. “My professor was amazing. I ended up studying in Costa Rica through his class and discovered how much I loved science.” After biology, she finally enrolled in that dreaded chemistry class— and there, she fell in love. “I never had many options in science growing up, so I hated school. I found out I could do a molecular and cellular biology degree for less money than other science majors, so I went big and applied to Cornell. I didn’t apply anywhere else. I took a huge gamble, but I finally knew what I wanted.” From dropout to the Ivy League, Kelly began her journey to become “not that kind of doctor.” She finished her undergrad at Cornell, took another year off to waitress, and returned to academia at Purdue University to pursue her passion: biochemistry. She finished her doctoral program in five-and-a-half years, six months earlier than the typical doctoral candidate. Finding work with such a prestigious academic resume has been challenging, because most of the companies where Kelly
Jan 2018 / TodaysWomanNow.com
Photo by Melissa Donald
By Megan M. Seckman
SEARCH: Dr. Kelly Sullivan
applied required postdoctoral experience. So, Kelly moved to Louisville to work under Professor Eugene Mueller as a postdoc in the UofL chemistry department. “He is a wonderful man, and I learned many new techniques, but even after working as a postdoc with very little pay, I had a difficult time finding work. Companies want a Ph.D., require a Ph.D., but then look at your resume and pigeonhole you as being an academic, not a worker. I couldn’t be a worker until I got hired somewhere.” Kelly is now gainfully employed by a Louisvillebased company, Ceela Naturals, a cosmetics company that specializes in vegan, allergen-free, cruelty-free skincare products. “I now get to spend my day in a lab with wonderful equipment testing a product line I love. The other company that shares
our building is a chocolate company, and they have me test their products for quality-control as well. So it all worked out. I am a chemist, and I work around skincare products and chocolate, things I actually love.”
WHAT PODCASTS IS SHE LISTENING TO? While in the lab and in rush-hour traffic, Kelly loves to listen to podcasts. Her favorites are:
• T hings You Missed in History Class
• S cience Vs., which debunks fads and trends in popular culture by presenting scientific fact.
• RuPaul's What’s the Tee? • Hidden Brain on NPR • Homecoming, which
features a star-studded cast including Amy Sedaris and David Schwimmer.
• Criminal
Today’s Woman / Jan 2018
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CELEBRATE THE NEW YEAR
Disco Style!
By Keri Foy Photos by Melissa Donald
H
ow Tracy Shacklette transformed her basement into a room that celebrates life and creates a VIP experience for her friends and family.
While no bouncer guards the door to Tracy Shacklette’s glamorous basement, you feel like you’re descending into a swanky and modern cocktail bar complete with a VIP list. The space features white couches, a white floor with 24k gold flecks, gold chain link curtains, and a disco ball. It’s the space where you want to turn on your favorite music and drink martinis. “I wanted a VIP lounge area,” Tracy says. “I love it — it’s so fun!” And, while the surroundings are luxurious, the intention behind the room is good, old-fashioned love. Tracy poured her heart into the room; she created her vision for the area with
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nothing but the ones she loves in mind. “I treat my friends like VIPs; they’re so special to me,” Tracy says. “Let’s be fabulous together in this space.” Tracy found herself drawing inspiration from something she enjoyed. “I have loved dancing since I was a child,” she says. “When I was 15, my mom would take my best friend and me to a dance club. Mom knew the bouncer. We’d dance all night.” Tracy, who grew up 60 miles outside of Los Angeles, says she and her bestie didn’t have any interest in drinking; they just loved dancing. It came full circle when just last year, Tracy’s best friend flew in from
California. She was so excited to show her the basement. “We played our music and danced to our ’80s songs. We relived our teenage years, but now in my own basement.” While Tracy’s talent for designing a space has always been part of her, it hasn’t always been her profession. In her late 30s, Tracy switched careers. Previously a physical therapist, she earned her second degree in interior design from the University of Louisville. “In that type of environment, you feel young,” Tracy says. “I enjoy the vibe of younger people.”
SOMETIMES YOUR ORIGINAL IDEA ISN’T AS GOOD AS WHAT COMES NEXT. Tracy’s first vision of the room didn’t involve anything remotely close to disco. She actually had her heart set on a mid-century motif, but when she couldn’t find the fireplace to tie it all together, she scrapped her idea. “I’m going glam,” Tracy says. She put her palette together and found just the right blue for the walls, Blue Inkwell by Sherwin Williams. “I knew I wanted metals and that’s the reason I started with gold chain-link curtains,” Tracy says. “They’re one of my favorite things about the room.” She actually had them custom-made. “They use chain curtains in other countries as doors to keep bugs from coming in,” Tracy says. “I had them made longer.” Another fave of Tracy’s isn’t even visible upon entering the room. It’s a surprise. When you slide away the mirrored wall, there’s an extra room that can transform into an area for shadow box dancing.
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Tracy Shacklette’s friends enjoy the atmosphere in her basement. Top right: Tracy used her second degree in interior design. Right: Tracy used lots of texture when designing the space. Read about her design decisions on the right of this page.
She completed the room’s posh vibe with metals, reflections, and textured panels. “I like the bling,” says Tracy, who tries to add something unexpected to every design. “I like contrast, different shapes, dimensional things, and materials. It invigorates you.” In the darker space, the metals and the curtains that can be lit from behind, are very striking. What’s more important, though, is Tracy’s ability to make her guests stand out. She treats her friends and family like royalty. “I have a lot of love in me,” says Tracy, who credits her faith as the source of it all. “I like to make people happy.”
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TOURING HER NEW CITY IN RUNNING SHOES By Kaitlynn Fish, WHAS11 Meteorologist Photo by Melissa Donald
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new city, new job, new routine, and new weather. Those are just a few of the adjustments I had to make upon accepting an offer to join the WHAS11 First Alert Storm Team here in Louisville. Don’t get me wrong, I was excited, but leaving a life I loved in New York City seemed daunting. First, I’ll tell you where I came from. I’m a Southerner at heart, born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana. At the end of college I was offered the opportunity to intern for a national news outlet in Manhattan and never looked back. After working for a few years in New York and some intense soul-searching, I realized I didn’t enjoy the news I was reporting on and missed the scientific topics I truly loved studying. Was there something I was passionate about that still involved news? Yes. Weather! I had experienced enough of it throughout my life. I then decided to go back to school for my degree in meteorology. I was a teenager in New Orleans when Hurricane Katrina slammed our beloved city. My family evacuated our home and had to leave my ailing father behind in a local hospital. We were reunited about a week after the storm, and he is doing well today. Hurricane Sandy and the blizzard that followed occurred during my first month as a permanent resident of New York City. I’ve seen firsthand the devastation that storms can cause. All of this led me to Louisville and to a job I love, where I can help people prepare for everyday life or for moments of extreme weather.
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I’m still adjusting after six months in town, but I’ve found some amazing communities that have helped with the process. Running has always been my stress reliever, and I’ve been welcomed into the Louisville running community with open arms. I’ve run a few charity 5Ks and the Urban Bourbon half-marathon and plan to run the Triple Crown races this spring. Not only have I made friends from running around the city, but I’ve also gotten a better sense of the weather. Training in the cold isn't my favorite — I prefer 70s and sunshine — but winter is an essential time to prep for spring races. There are days when I put on an extra layer and head out to run Cherokee Park, but I also rely on indoor crosstraining like barre classes and yoga. There are plenty of training plans online that help keep you on track whether it is your first race or your 15th. The hardest part is that first run, but sticking with it is key, and the reward is unmatched. Being welcomed into Louisville’s fitness community is something I’ll forever be grateful for and hope to be a part of for years to come!
SEARCH: Kaitlynn Fish
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WHAT I AM WEARING THIS MONTH: Comfort Styling and Photo by Aubrey Hillis
SARAH RIGDON JOB: Master Barber, Underground Classic Cuts SELF-DESCRIBED STYLE: Simple and Affordable WHY YOU CHOSE THIS? “I’m all about being comfortable. I almost always wear solid colors, never anything tight fitting up top. I feel uncomfortable if I’m wearing tight things and if my rear isn’t covered. Usually something denim is involved, and if my feet aren’t feeling happy, I’m not happy. I get super grumpy when my feet hurt, so comfort comes first! I go for simple styles that don’t take much effort to pull off. No bling, no ruffles, etc.
SARAH IS WEARING: Earrings: Target, $10 Sweater: Target, $15 Jeans: Ross Dress for Less, $9 Shoes: Zappos/6pm outlet, $30 Scarf: unknown, was a Christmas gift years ago Coat: Fabletics, $50
Capturing Louisville By Bella Portaro-Kueber Photo by Aubrey Hillis
Behind the Igers Louisville account (@IgersLouisville) are Josh Brown and Michelle Seivers. Michelle, a Louisville native, has lived in other cities but came back home and started working as a photographer to capture and share images of the community with others. “Our minds process every image we share, so it’s important to reflect Louisville in photographs the best way possible while still remaining realistic,” Michelle says. “In social media, images are the strongest tool.” The community of Igers Louisville encourages others to share and tag their work with #IgersLouisville. k
“I’m a self-taught photographer so I know what it’s like to be timid to ask others for input or advice, but other photographers have taken the time to help me so I will always help others.”
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SEARCH: Michelle Seivers
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YOU DESERVE THE BEST, AND TODAY’S WOMAN IS GIVING IT TO YOU WITH OUR ANNUAL BEST FOR YOU AWARDS.
CATEGORIES FEATURED: • Healthful Food • Wellness • Get Moving • Save Your Skin • Find Relief • Reshape/Contouring • Help Others • Home Improvement • Home Interiors
By Carrie Vittitoe Photos by Melissa Donald
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his year, we’re showing you how to live a healthier life, beautify your environment, and bring positive change into your community — with your help. We gave you, the readers, the chance to nominate and vote for the best businesses and services in town. Turn the page to read about the 30 businesses featured so you can initiate changes that will make your life the best it can be.
“When you’re good at something, you’ll tell everyone. When you’re great at something, they’ll tell you.” Walter Payton, former professional football player
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The deli sells made-to-order sandwiches, and Paul’s Market recently added a butcher shop in most of its locations.
• PAUL’S RECENTLY RENOVATED ITS ST. MATTHEWS STORE. With approximately 6,500 square feet of space, the store now offers a butcher, a larger deli, and a lot more merchandise. Sally Thieneman says it is also easier for customers to move around in the store.
Healthful Food Paul’s Fruit Market 4601 Jennings Lane Louisville, KY 40218 502.426.5059 https://www.paulsfruit.com/
FINALIST: HOME CUISINE
• “WE ALWAYS LISTEN TO OUR CUSTOMERS’ REQUESTS. Anytime someone requests an item, we’re happy to procure it,” Thieneman says. Part of listening to customers includes making many of its most popular salads — including light cheddar pimento and benedictine — in its warehouse “salad room.” • PEOPLE WHO ARE NEW TO LOUISVILLE OFTEN AREN’T AWARE OF PAUL’S four retail operations and restaurant division, which provides high quality produce to local restaurants.
“Home Cuisine prepares balanced, delicious meals just for you right here in St. Matthews. Healthy eating has never been so easy.” — Mae Pike, owner, Home Cuisine
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FINALIST: TRADER JOE’S
“At Trader Joe’s we are genuinely committed to providing our customers with the great products, quality, prices, and customer experience they deserve.” — Kenya Friend-Daniel, public relations director, Trader Joe’s
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Photo provided by Women First Their 3D Tomosynthesis gives Women First the ability to detect breast cancer earlier.
• WOMEN FIRST WILL BE CELEBRATING ITS 30TH YEAR IN A BIG WAY IN 2018, according to Executive Director Denise Kirkham. “The physicians are really proud of caring for multiple generations of women,” she says. They have 11 physicians and 12 nurse practitioners/physician assistants.
Wellness Women First Baptist Health Medical Pavilion 3900 Kresge Way, Suite 30 Louisville, KY 40207 502.891.8700 http://www.wfoflou.com/
FINALIST: 25 AGAIN
“25 Again is an exclusive, doctor-managed membership allowing women to live healthier as they age. Our program safely replenishes hormones, vitamins, and minerals to youthful levels.” — Allison Gibson, vice president of marketing, 25 Again
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• THE PRACTICE WILL CONTINUE TO BRING LEADING EDGE TECHNOLOGY TO PATIENTS. This past summer, Women First purchased its second 3D Tomosynthesis mammography machine. This enhanced technology will help ensure that breast cancers are found earlier and more accurately. • WOMEN FIRST CONTINUES TO PROVIDE INOFFICE SURGICAL PROCEDURES. Kirkham says its success in this arena is necessitating a need for a bigger surgery suite. Among the procedures offered are diagnostic and surgical hysteroscopy, colposcopy, and the Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP).
FINALIST: WOMANCARE
“With three certified nurse midwives, three physicians, a nurse practitioner and our upcoming birth center, we give every mother the chance to choose the birth experience she prefers.” — Chris Grady, MD, WomanCare
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Photo provided by YMCA These kids are participating in one of many activities offered at YMCA Camp Cedar Ridge.
• YMCA CEO STEVE TARVER SAYS THE ORGANIZATION IS FOCUSING ON “AN INITIATIVE TO GET PEOPLE MORE ACTIVE OUTDOORS” as part of a celebration of the 100th anniversary of the national parks system. The YMCA is working with partner organizations, like Metro Parks, to promote activity in the great outdoors through social marketing and improved trail maintenance.
Get Moving YMCA of Greater Louisville 545 S. 2nd St. • Louisville, KY 40202 502.587.6700 • http://www.ymcalouisville.org/
FINALIST: CYCLEBAR
“Part sanctuary, part rock concert. CycleBar gets you a full-body, indoor cycling workout in 50 minutes through an energetic, multisensory experience in every single ride. Each CycleBar ride can be modified to your own fitness level.” — Katie Kannapell Ryser, owner, CycleBar
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• IN ITS YOUTH PROGRAMS, THE YMCA IS “BEING MORE INTENTIONAL about making 30 to 60 minutes of vigorous activity each day a standard programming expectation,” Tarver says. • THE YMCA OFFERS THREE OUTDOOR CAMP SPACES FOR YOUTH to continue “encouraging our children to become unplugged,” Tarver says. They include Cedar Ridge in Southeastern Jefferson County, Kentucky; Camp Piomingo in Brandenburg, Kentucky; and Camp Honor Bright in Floyd County, Indiana.
FINALIST: JAZZERCISE LOUISVILLE EAST PREMIER FITNESS CENTER
“We help the community by offering a fitness experience that transforms your body, boosts your mood, and ignites your energy.” — Stacie Barnes, owner Jazzercise Louisville East Premier Fitness Center
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Dr. Jamie Lovelace performs procedures to tighten sagging skin on different parts of the body.
• THE SIX PHYSICIANS AT DERMATOLOGY ASSOCIATES FOCUS ON BOTH MEDICAL AND COSMETIC DERMATOLOGY. Dr. Jamie Loveless says, “I think people like that we do everything here.” He says patients sometimes come in for a medical treatment (acne) and then decide on a cosmetic treatment (to reduce acne scarring) after the medical issue is under control.
Save Your Skin Dermatology Associates 2811 Klempner Way Louisville, KY 40205 502.896.6355 https://secureweb.iglou.com/ dermatology-associates/indexnew.html
FINALIST: AVANTI SKIN CENTER OF LOUISVILLE
“At Avanti, Jamie Bryant MSN, APRN and myself work extremely hard to provide our clients with the education they need to make the best decision for their anti-aging/ rejuvenating treatments. We love helping others feel better about themselves!” — Ashley Snellen MSN, APRN, owner and provider of services, Avanti Skin Center of Louisville
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• KYBELLA IS A NEW, NON-INVASIVE COSMETIC TREATMENT FOR DOUBLE-CHIN THAT DERMATOLOGY ASSOCIATES IS OFFERING ITS CLIENTS. This injection, which typically requires two treatments, “shrinks the fat cells for a more permanent solution for taking away fullness,” says nurse supervisor Cassie Durbin. • CLIENTS HAVE MANY OPTIONS WHEN IT COMES TO FILLERS, INCLUDING SCULPTRA, RADIESSE, AND VOLLURE. The staff and physicians at Dermatology Associates help patients determine the best products and treatments based on their age, costs, and expectations.
FINALIST: AESTHETIC ALTERNATIVES
“What separates our practice is that we offer multiple modalities, meaning everything is an individualized treatment plan, and we combine the modalities to promote the most natural refreshed look.” — Kristy Owens, cosmetic coordinator, Aesthetic Alternatives
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The Himalayan Salt Stone massage, featured here at the Louisville East location, is offered at both locations.
The lobby of the Middletown location of Elements Massage.
• ANDREW AND ANGIE PRYOR, CO-OWNERS OF ELEMENTS MASSAGE— MIDDLETOWN, HAVE HAD THEIR LIVES CHANGED FOR THE BETTER THROUGH MASSAGE, AND THEY HOPE TO SPREAD THE MESSAGE TO OTHERS. “The idea of massage as luxury has taken a backseat to massage as therapy,” Angie Pryor says. Both Elements locations offer a wellness program, which “is an affordable option that is accessible to people,” Andrew Pryor says. One of its benefits is a $20 savings on every massage.
Find Relief Elements Massage Two locations: 13303 Shelbyville Road, #102, Louisville, KY 40223 502.244.7660 https://elementsmassage.com/middletown 1301 Herr Lane, Louisville, KY 40222 502.412.9383 https://elementsmassage.com/louisville-east
FINALIST: FRAZIER REHAB INSTITUTE
• THE FRONT DESK STAFF AT BOTH LOCATIONS HAS BEEN TRAINED TO TAKE THE TIME TO ASK CLIENTS QUESTIONS WHEN THEY BOOK AN APPOINTMENT to ensure that they match them up to the therapist who will best serve their needs. Elements—Louisville East Owner Jim McArthur says therapists check in with clients during the process to ensure that the pressure is correct and that the clients’ needs are being met. Clients can relax in knowing that the therapist “is focused on massage and not trying to up-sell you into other stuff,” he says. • DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE IS A FREQUENT CLIENT REQUEST, BUT HIMALAYAN SALT STONE MASSAGE IS INCREASING IN POPULARITY. The pressure of the warm stones combined with healing minerals is relaxing for clients.
“Combining traditional rehab with innovative therapeutic techniques, we help people find relief in their body, mind and spirit as they travel their courageous recovery journey.” — Barbara Mackovic, senior manager, media relations marketing/communications division Frazier Rehab Institute
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FINALIST: A THERAPEUTIC TOUCH
“What people like most is that we have a large number of experienced therapists that offer a wide array of modalities, so people who come in know they are going to get an excellent massage by an experienced massage therapist.” — Keelie Bloom, owner, A Therapeutic Touch
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Reshape/Contouring Physician’s Center for Beauty 4600 Shelbyville Road, #220 Louisville, KY 40207 502.897.7546 http://physicianscenterforbeauty.com/
• ONE OF THE MOST POPULAR SERVICES THAT DR. SEAN MAGUIRE AND HIS STAFF OFFER IS COOLSCULPTING, A PROCEDURE THAT FREEZES UNWANTED BODY FAT. “We’ve been doing it for five years and just continue to see really good results,” Dr. Maguire says. He says new instruments shave time off the procedure — making it a 30-minute per area treatment — and significantly reduce pain. • Z WAVE IS DR. MAGUIRE’S NEWEST SERVICE. “Z Wave is an adjunct to Coolsculpt and liposuction that uses sound waves to improve lymphatic drainage and increase circulation.” With the addition of Z-Wave, Dr. Maguire hopes patients can see their final results sooner. “Our goal is to provide results that can improve the patient’s quality of life and self-confidence. If we can do that in the least invasive way possible, that’s even better,” he says.
Dr. Sean Maguire uses ultherapy to rejuvenate skin.
FINALIST: U OF L PHYSICIANS
“Our patients’ needs always come first. We are boardcertified plastic surgeons who stay at the forefront of plastic surgery techniques.” — Dr. Bradon Wilhelmi, plastic and reconstructive surgeon, UofL Physicians
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• ULTHERAPY USES ULTRASOUND TO CREATE AND STIMULATE COLLAGEN. Dr. Maguire says patients can see improved skin texture and pigmentation results on the face, neck, and décolletage from this procedure.
FINALIST: A WOMAN’S TOUCH
“My philosophy is to serve my patients with the best in surgical and nonsurgical treatments...this creates a trust that keeps my patients coming back!” — Julene Samuels, plastic surgeon, A Woman’s Touch MD / Julene B. Samuels MD, FACS
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Help Others Photo provided by Hosparus Health
Hosparus Health 3532 Ephraim McDowell Drive Louisville, KY 40205 502.456.6200 https://www.hosparushealth.org/
• GWEN COOPER, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT AND CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER FOR HOSPARUS HEALTH, SAYS MOST PEOPLE CALL FOR HELP MUCH LATER THAN THEY SHOULD, thinking there is no benefit to Hosparus care until right before death. Hosparus Health is in its second year of a pilot program to offer advanced illness care to adults. “This is for a patient with an illness that may be terminal, but they don’t want to give up curative care,” Cooper says. In addition to saving health care dollars, this program has improved the quality of life for patients with advanced chronic illnesses such as Multiple Sclerosis or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. • ALTHOUGH HOSPARUS HEALTH OFFERS PAIN AND SYMPTOM MANAGEMENT AND MEDICATION MANAGEMENT ON THE MEDICAL SIDE, ITS VOLUNTEER SIDE IS A CRITICAL COMPONENT OF ITS MISSION. “We wrap ourselves around the family and provide the support that clears the fog,” Cooper says. Support may come in the form of doing chores, running errands, or just listening.
This group of staff and volunteers worked at the Hosparus bereavement weekend at Camp Evergreen. The grief counseling camp was created for families and children who have lost loved ones.
FINALIST: CEDAR LAKE
“Cedar Lake helps adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities live a life full of abundant possibilities by focusing on an array of person-centered supports.” — Tara Oliver, director of marketing, Cedar Lake
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• HOSPARUS HEALTH’S COUNSELING ARM CONTINUES TO ASSIST FAMILIES no matter what stage of chronic and eventual terminal illness a family member is in.
FINALIST: RESTORE
“Habitat ReStore helps the entire community by keeping usable materials out of the landfill, and converting those materials into affordable housing opportunities for Louisville families.” — Dale Douthat, director of ReStore, Habitat for Humanity of Metro Louisville
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Sharry Waldeck, the manager of Frank Otte, oversees their landscape architects and grounds crew.
Home Improvement Frank Otte Landscape & Design 13905 Aiken Road Louisville, KY 40245 502.245.1517 http://frankotte.com/
FINALIST: BARGAIN SUPPLY
“Being locally owned and operated makes us feel like part of the community. We take great pride in the service we provide our customers.” — Todd Hester, sales manager, Bargain Supply
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• “WE OFFER TOTAL PROJECT MANAGEMENT FROM BEGINNING TO END AND TOTAL MAINTENANCE OF THE PROJECT,” says Sharry Waldeck, manager of Frank Otte Landscape & Design. Waldeck says the most popular projects among clients right now are outdoor rooms and fireplaces. • WHEN STAFF DESIGNERS VISIT A SITE, THEY LEARN ABOUT THE CUSTOMERS’ NEEDS AND DESIRES, AND MORE PRIVACY IS ONE OF THE MOST COMMON REQUESTS. A desire for privacy means the design would likely include taller plants and perhaps even pergolas or other vertical structures. • FRANK OTTE LANDSCAPE & DESIGN’S TOTAL MAINTENANCE OFFER includes trimming, pruning, and mulching (as needed) twice a year.
FINALIST:
“Closets by Design helps people with storage and organizational needs for their home. As one client said, ‘We love our closet, everything is where it is supposed to be.’” — Jeff Speedy, general manager, Closets by Design
Today’s Woman / Jan 2018
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Louis Schmitt with son Zack have built a long-standing family business.
• WHEN IT COMES TO STYLE, BUYER AND CO-OWNER ZACK SCHMITT SAYS THE MOST POPULAR TRENDS ARE AMERICANMADE PRODUCTS, MODERN FARMHOUSE, AND RUSTIC/ RECLAIMED FURNITURE. Whether in fabric or wood, he says grays, taupes, and white are the popular neutrals.
Home Interiors Schmitt Furniture 101 E. Main St. New Albany, IN 47150 812.944.2285 http://www.schmittfurniture.com/
• ALTHOUGH TRANSITIONAL FURNITURE IS WHAT THE COMPANY HAS BUILT ITS SUCCESS ON, SCHMITT FURNITURE “TRIES TO HAVE SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE,” SCHMITT SAYS. “If you can’t find it on our showroom floor, sales associates will find it for you. We can order what anyone wants.” He says customers sometimes see items online or in a magazine, and Schmitt often sells the exact same products under different brand names. • THE FOURTH-GENERATION BUSINESS PRIDES ITSELF ON OFFERING QUALITY FURNITURE WITH THE BEST POSSIBLE CUSTOMER SERVICE. “We really wouldn’t be here without our dedicated employees and loyal customers,” he says. “We have to honor our reputation.”
FINALIST: BARRY WOOLEY DESIGNS
“Customers who visit the BW Showroom have access to the award-winning BW Design Team along with the option of ordering custom pieces from an array of luxury vendors.” — Barry Wooley, founder, Barry Wooley Designs
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FINALIST: DIGS HOME AND GARDEN
“Digs is a locally owned home-grown business bringing the best in service and furnishings for inside or outside your home to the Louisville marketplace.” — Ben Palmer-Ball, owner, Digs Home and Garden
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Low-Carb Instant Pot Taco Spaghetti Squash Story and Photos by Paige Rhodes
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f one of your goals is cleaning up your diet and incorporating more lowcarb meals into your day, then this recipe is for you. Pressure cooking was the kitchen trend of 2017 and this year will be no different. Many of you might have gotten a great deal on an electric pressure cooker (mine is an Instant Pot) over the holidays, and this is the perfect way to test it out. If you don’t have a pressure cooker, you can easily adapt this according to what you do have at home. Try roasting the spaghetti squash at 400 degrees for 50 minutes, and preparing the sauce the same way you would in the pressure cooker, only in a saute pan on the stove. This meal will leave you satisfied without feeling the least bit deprived!
SEARCH: Spaghetti Squash
INSTANT POT TACO SPAGHETTI SQUASH Serves: 2-3 servings 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 2 pounds) 1 cup water 1 tbsp olive oil 1 pound ground chicken, turkey or beef (I use turkey) 1 small onion, diced 1 (1.25-ounce) package taco seasoning 1 (10-ounce can) mild diced tomatoes with green chilies 1 tbsp tomato paste 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese 1 Roma tomato, diced chopped cilantro, for serving
Instructions Cut the spaghetti squash in half, crosswise. A smaller paring knife works well to get through the thick skin. Scoop out the seeds in the center of the squash and discard everything, like you would a pumpkin. Place the steamer insert/trivet into your pressure cooker. Add 1 cup of water to the pot. Place the squash halves on the steamer insert. I had one sitting up and one on its side because it wouldn't fit otherwise. No biggie. Place the lid on the Instant Pot and cook under high pressure for 7 minutes. Press the
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“Manual” button and adjust the time to 7. When the squash is finished cooking, carefully release the valve at the top of the pressure cooker to rapidly lower the pressure. Remove the lid and carefully remove the squash (there may be hot liquid collected in the hollows.) Shred the squash with a fork and set aside. Remove the trivet from the Instant Pot and dispose of any residual cooking liquid. Add olive oil to the pot, and using the "Saute" function, allow the Instant Pot to come back up to temperature with the lid off.
When the Instant Pot is ready, add ground meat and saute until browned all over and is no longer pink. Add diced onion and taco seasoning, and continue to saute until onion is translucent and fragrant. Add diced tomatoes and chilies and tomato paste. Stir until well combined, add spaghetti squash back into the pot, and simmer everything for 10 more minutes. Top with cheese and allow it to melt before serving. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh Roma tomatoes and cilantro.
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MY THREE SONS + A 2,000-MILE ROAD TRIP
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fter Christine Beshara-Repp’s divorce, she found herself short on funds but full of big dreams. All of a sudden, a life stretched out in front of her. She needed adventure, to be in the driver’s seat after so many years of idling. She needed to know she could do it, all on her own. And so, a road trip was born. She would take the boys on an epic road trip to Colorado. This would be her first attempt at single-mom travel. She worked Saturday school sessions and saved her extra money for the trip, but still, she had a tight budget. “I told the boys that we can only spend $250 a day. No eating out on the road — this was going to be very different than when I was married. We were going to pack a cooler and make sandwiches,” Christine recalls. At first, the boys balked. “They wanted Wendy’s, but I kept driving the point home about our budget. That first time we pulled over and ate our little lunches by the river, I felt so proud. It was really nice, all of us there together by the river. I had so much enthusiasm about the trip, I think it rubbed off on them.” But it wasn’t all a magical mystery tour. “There were moments when I thought hysterically, ‘I’m the only adult here,’” she says with a laugh. She prepped for the road trip by ‘psyching’ herself up and loading up on coffee, but there was no one to hand over the wheel to. Not to mention, she was traveling with 16-, 13-, and 10-year-old brothers — a recipe for road trip mayhem. “I was mentally prepared for fighting in the car, but everyone did great. I bought Josh a fidget spinner and that kept him occupied most of the trip.” Josh, her youngest son, has autism, speech, and vision impairments, and a cognitive delay. Christine worried that if he got lost, he wouldn’t be able to articulate his way back to camp. “I got him a GPS watch just in case, but nothing held him back,” Christine says. “He handled everything like a champ.” Christine kept the schedule loose because she wanted buy-in from the
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By Megan Seckman Photo submitted by Christine Beshara-Repp
Read Christine’s Not to Miss places and what to pack at TodaysWomanNow.com
boys as to where to go. The crew decided on Estes Park and Aspen, where the film Dumb and Dumber was filmed. They also decided on a horseback riding excursion (Josh’s choice), hiking at the Garden of the Gods (Christine’s pick), and a visit to both the Denver Broncos Stadium and the Olympic training center in Colorado Springs (Dominic’s and Sam’s choice). “The trip was not relaxing, but it was a lot of fun and meant so much to me. I remember one campsite, where I sat back and looked at Dom and Josh swimming in the lake below,
laughing and having the best time. Sam [13], who I can never get away from technology, was tying things up in the trees and completely fascinated with all the gadgetry of camping. My campfire dinners were often disasters — I tried to make grilled cheese pressed sandwiches that turned out like charred hockey pucks — and we froze to death some nights, but we had so much fun together.” SEARCH: Christine Beshara-Repp
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CELEBRATIONS Photos by Trina Whalin of Photo Lulu Photography
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ariana Sanders and Joe Epperson married in a early March ceremony at The Grand in New Albany and stayed there for the reception because of its all-inclusive options. “The Grand used to be an old theatre, so it’s full of history and the décor inside was beautiful.” They customized the music to blend their loves: “I’m a big Lord of the Rings fan, so I had our entire bridal party walk down the aisle to Concerning Hobbits. For the sand ceremony, my husband chose an instrumental version of Come Thou Fount, his favorite hymn. Our first dance was to Dave Barnes’ Until You. And, instead of hiring a professional videographer, they borrowed a GoPro and had the officiant wear it so he could record the entire ceremony. “We got the best view of our ceremony, and all the words that we said were very easy to hear.” Her best planning tip? “Choose a venue that includes everything and does all the set up and tear down for you.”
My favorite photo was taken during the first look with my soon-to-be husband. “I remember hugging Joe and looking up at him and both of us just saying “We’re about to get married!” Having a first look also allowed us to get authentic pictures of us that showed the emotion we were feeling.”
SEARCH: Celebration
They had a photo booth, which was so much fun for everyone. “We had guests put an extra copy of their picture in a book, and it was so fun to look through and read everyone’s well wishes once we got back from our honeymoon.”
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To save money, always be willing to DIY. Mariana and her mom made her bouquet and added silver brooches “Having a bouquet that my mom and I made together made it that much more special, and something I can keep around.” And, pick the most important things to not compromise on — for Mariana, it was the photography.
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