Suit Yourself
With Wardrobe Stylist Robin Finnell
Dr. Brooks Seeking BIG Losers with Healthy Weigh Now
Now g Servin iam Will e c n i r P ty Coun AN WOM
Woman to Woman Is it Hot in Here?...AGAIN
Valerie P. Kaiser, CFP asks
Are YOU Financially Prepared?
MAY | JUNE 2015
COMPLIMENTARY COPY
Education-Lifestyle Magazine serving County Women in Loudoun, Arlington, Prince Wm and Winchester City
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May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
educate. empower. inspire. inform.
Sterling Women provides a new networking opportunity for business women in Northern Virginia and beyond. Each month we invite a successful business woman located in Loudoun County to speak to our audience about her accomplishments.
Sterling Women of Manassas 15601 Turtle Point Drive Gainesville, VA 20155 May 20, 2015 June 17, 2015
For more information, please contact Shateea Holmes, Director info@swmanassas.org www.swmanassas.org
11:00 - 1:30
Sterling Women provides a new networking opportunity for business women in Northern Virginia and beyond. Each month we invite a successful business woman located in Loudoun County to speak to our audience about her accomplishments.
Upcoming Luncheons (11:00 AM - 1:30 PM)
MAY 7 JUNE 11 The National Conference Center 18980 Upper Belmont Place • Leesburg, VA 20176 educate. empower. inspire. inform.
Launching Spring 2015 ARLINGTON
For more information, please contact Sharon Ragland at 703.478.0500 x511 or sragland@restonlimo.com www.sterlingwomen.org Is a Proud Sponsor of Sterling Women and now Sterling Women of Manassas
May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
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Sponsors Make the Difference! Cinco Sponsors: Home Savings & Trust Mortgage George Mason Mortgage JBG Companies Strittmatter Companies M & T Bank NDG Communications Quadrant, Inc. Miller & Smith Brookfield Residential The Washington Post The Louis P. & Lela Busch Foundation Drees Homes The Stagi Group John Darvish Construction Van Metre Homes Dan Ryan Builders Heritage Contracting Brambleton Odin, Feldman & Pittleman, P.C. Steve & Marjie Alloy Arcadia Communities Annandale Millwork Meridian New Homes Guide Delucchi Plus Atlantic Coast Mortgage DBM Carr Homes Cyndi & Ed Shanahan Wallace & Co. First Excel Title Diane DuBois & Bette Rutherford Comstock Homes K. Hovnanian Homes Atlantic Builders Cecilia Hodges Creating Results The Berry Companies Winchester Homes Madison Homes Leave it to Lisa Willowsford Bank of America Merrill Lynch Ryland Homes NVP Inc. Moen Pat deBearn Toll Brothers Century Tile Carlyn and Company Borcz + Dixon Model Home Interiors Washington Gas Basheer & Edgemoore Equinox Investments PFour LLC Greg & Beth Carter M/I Homes SugarOak Corporation Fulton Bank Christopher Companies GKA Advertising Suzanne Neff & Assoc. Laurentian Consulting Group J. Ayers & Assoc. Inc. Walker Title Mosaic Tile Peter & Chris Thompson Pulte Homes Fortessa Red Thinking Fiona & Mackey Hughes
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May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
Thanks so much to the many corporations, organizations, clubs and individuals that have helped so far this year! Corporations and organizations are discovering around the country that adding a community service component to their work environment greatly enhances corporate life. WGB is the perfect partner! Women Giving Back is in a unique position to host large and small companies for a day of service, organizing a donation drive, and partnering in a capital campaign. What happens when your group comes to volunteer together? You bond, you make a difference, and you feel better about yourself. WGB can host special personal shopping days for your group where you can either work in the warehouse, directly help women from the shelters select their clothing and interview accessories, or find a specific mission for you. Join the WGB family making a difference in the lives of these women and children in crisis. WomenGivingBack.org • WomenGivingBack@gmail.com • 20 Export Dr., Sterling, VA
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Congratulations Class of 2015 Loudoun County Arlington County Prince William County
 You did it... on to the next...
"We have been so pleasantly surprised by how warmly embraced we have been by the members of the Chamber. We have seen a signiďŹ cant increase in business, and have built strong business relationships since joining the Prince William Chamber." -- Rebecca Vaughan-King, Imagine
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May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
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Table of Contents
may/june 2015
publisher’s page 7
PO BOX 802 | MCLEAN, VA 22101 | WWW.LOUDOUNWOMANMAGAZINE.COM
Founder Publisher / CEO: Dorri C. Scott
Honoring Moms
health and wellness 14 16 18 19
Copy Editor and Digital Services Chelsea Erickson
Woman to Woman The Healthy Weigh NowTM Don’t Squish Me Braces Q & A
Graphic Design: Jelly Graphics | www.jellygraphics.com Christopher D. Jenkins | www.cleardesigners.com Kerry Stavely | www.horseandhare.com Printing: Bartash Printing - Philadelphia, PA | www.bartash.com Andre Fitch, Print Specialist
features 20 23 33
Cover Story - Are You Prepared? Voting Rights Miraval Spa and Resort
Staff: Eileen Carlucci – Moses , Client Services / Asst to Publisher Darnell Wise Lightbourn, Community Events Liaison Pat Wirth, Guest Columnist Brycen Scott Eades, Intern Keaira Simpkins, Intern
business 24 37 11
Limousine Business Leader Has Heart Solopreneurs - Top Tactics for Success Looking Good - Your Style
The WOMAN Magazine Group Loudoun WOMAN Magazine Arlington WOMAN Prince William County WOMAN www.loudounwomanmagazine.com
education 28
To Advertise Contact Us...
College Planning Coach
home 30 31 32
Spring Flowers and Decor Outdoor Space Ticks and Your Yard, No More!
“In lieu of a Publisher letter, this page was created to honor mothers. Especially dedicated to my daughter Brittany Joi and my son Brycen. Enjoy…” Dorri C. Scott, Publisher
The Woman’s Journal newspaper is published bimonthly and is available free of charge, by subscription, display stands in approved private and public establishments and authorized distributors only. Trademark laws and U.S. copyright laws protect The Women’s Journal. No part of this paper may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. The Women’s Journal is not responsible for any editorial comment (other than it’s own), typographical errors from advertisements submitted as camera ready or any reproductions of advertisements submitted as camera ready. If an advertisement does not meet our standards of acceptance, we may revise or cancel it at any time., whether or not it has been already acknowledged and/or previously published. The advertiser assumes sole responsibility for all statements contained in submitted copy and will protect and indemnify The Woman’s Journal its owners, publishers and employees against any and all liability, loss or expense arising out of claims for libel, unfair trade names, patents, copyrights and proprietary rights, and all violations of the right of privacy or other violations resulting from the publications by this newspaper for its advertising copy. Publisher shall be under no liability for failure, for any reason, to insert an advertisement. Publisher shall not be liable for any reason of error, omission and/or failure to insert any part of an advertisement. Publisher will not be liable for delay or failure in performance in publication distribution if all or any portion of an issue is delayed or suspended for any reason. The publisher will exercise reasonable judgement in these instances and will make adjustments for the advertiser where and when appropriate. The Woman’s Journal assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material or reproductions made by advertisers. This newspaper will be published by the 5th day of every other month. Representations by The Women’s Journal, copyright 2011. ™ Publication of advertising contained here does not necessarily constitute endorsement.
elf Suit Yoursbe Stylist
Connect with us!
www.facebook.com/NoVaWomanMag https://twitter.com/DorriStorri www.linkedin.com/in/dorristorri Loudoun Woman Magazine You Tube Channel
PO BOX 802 | MCLEAN, VA 22101 | WWW.LOUDOUNWOMANMAGAZINE.COM
May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
Woman Womanin to AIN Here?...AG
Dr. Brooks Seeking BIG Losers
Is it Hot
Valerie P. Kaiser, CFP Founder and President of Kaiser Financial Solutions LLC.
with Healthy Weigh Now
iser, CFP
Valerie P. Ka asks
Focused on helping her clients to live with fortitude for a legacy of financial success Valerie is this month’s cover WOMAN!
Are YOU lly Financia ? Prepared ARY COPY
COMPLIMENT 2015 MAY | JUNE
Education-Life
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ON THE COVER
Now g in Serv illiam ce W Prin ounty C MAN WO
With Wardro l Robin Finnel
For more Loudoun Woman Magazine go to www.LoudounWomanMagazine.com
P.O. Box 802 | McLean, VA 22101 Phone: (301) 526-8440 publisher@vawoman.com
style Magazine
pages 20 and 21 Photo by: Christy Jenkins
serving Coun
ty Women in
Loudoun, Arlin
gton, Prince
Wm and
City Winchester
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A Mother’s Love By Dorri C. Scott
I
recently read a lovely article about mothers and our loves. The inspiring words shook every part of my soul. I was enlightened and joyful as I thought about the years spent raising my children. Fond memories filled my heart as tears welled up in my eyes. “Where,” I wondered, “did the years go… so swiftly?” Like the writer of the article, I have kept a journal for each of my children who are now young adults since birth... Much of their life has been recorded in words. Grateful for the love and light they bring into my life I wanted each of them to know how important they are to me FOREVER – No matter what! As a mother I invite you to share with your children some of your loves. It is a lifetime gift that only a mother’s love can pass on from one generation to another. 1. Love You – Always. There will be people who will challenge you. Throughout your life, fight for you and love you first. You cannot spread what you don’t have to give. 2. Love those who love you back. Build teams of people who love themselves so that collectively you can love each other – a partner, family, work friends, neighbors, etc. Together with your team(s) you build you can conquer anything and anyone. 3. Love and honor your talents. Find your passion.
7. Love the adventure of living life. It is a journey not a sprint. Take the ride in stride and be grateful. 8. Love music. It will make your heart happy. On a bad day, dance. On a good day teach someone new ways to make great movement. 9. Love justice. Know peace. Be the voice and advocate for one who does not have the courage to stand or who is unable. Don’t worry about their why….just do what is right because every life matters. 10. Love the underserved. Do it with grace and a giving heart. 11. Love history. Learn from those who have travelled the road before you. 12. Love books, READ and LEARN. New thoughts will open up a new world to you. 13. Love animals. Their love is unconditional. 14. Love science. Invent and be innovative. 15. Love every stage of life. There are lessons to learn in every season. 16. Love your Creator and always know that your mother loves you!
“
4. Love everyone – all races, sexes, colors, creed, religions, ages – Just LOVE everybody. It will make the world better and you too!
5. Love your body. You are perfect just the way God created you – flaws and all. Besides, no one is perfect and everyone is working on a body part they wish they did not have. educate. empower. inspire. inform.
6. Love and live in the moment. There is so much joy in the NOW!
Love and live in the moment. There is so much joy in the NOW!
”
Happy Mother’s Day! May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
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Happy Flag Day! June 14th, 2015
thanks dad... for that time when i skinned my knee and you picked me up and held me tight till it was all better. thanks dad... for that time when my first boyfriend broke my heart and you listened to me talk and cry all night long.
Established by President Woodrow Wilson, Flag Day was established in August of 1949 by an act of congress.
thanks dad... for that time that i was terrified of not being as wonderful of a parent as you are, and you told me i would be great!
Happy Memorial Day! Monday June 25th, 2015
Remembering those who died while
serving in our country’s armed forces. Originally called Declaration Day, it is a day of remembrance.
Happy Father’s Day For more information email:
Neilsa.Brooks@ymcadc.org or by mail: YMCA Loudoun County Attn: Neilsa Brooks 26B Fairfax Street SE Leesburg, VA 20175
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May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
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About Face and Beautiful Hair with Enlightened Styles By Jacquelyn Rodriguez
E
nlightened Styles is a boutique hair salon like no other you have experienced … an oasis where you can step out of your busy routine and receive the undivided attention of a beauty professional dedicated to helping you feel your best and look your best each and every day. Together, we will discover and reveal your unique style so that you can feel beautiful, confident and poised at all times. We also launched Ammoura Cosmetics this year. Custom blending is the newest trend to hit the cosmetic industry. Where can you go and have a product customized just for your individual skin type, color and condition, as you wait? Not the department store! At the Enlightened Styles Salon and Blending Bar, we will take the guess work out of finding that perfect foundation shade and texture. With a detailed skin assessment and wish list, the Artist will create Cosmetic Magic right before your eyes.
Jacquelyn Rodriguez, owner of Enlightened Styles 30 North 5th Street Warrenton, Va 20186 www.enlightenedstyles.com 540-560-2957 As a highly-trained hair stylist and make-up artist, Jacquelyn takes the time to get to know you individually and advise you on how to create the look that is right for your unique hair and skin type. She believes in keeping up with current trends and styles with continuing education. She understands how uplifting it is to feel good about one’s appearance and has created Enlightened Styles, a unique hair salon. She listens to what you want, and takes the time to get to know you and your personal style. educate. empower. inspire. inform.
May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
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Power Networking for Women presented by the Women in Business Initiative
Thursday, July 16
6 to 8 p.m. Naked Moutain Winery & Vineyard Markham, Virginia
Learn more or register at
business.gmu.edu/wib
Time to take a quiz!!!
Consider Your Fracture Risk protect ‘dem bones
Whether you are young and viral, peri-menopausal, menopausal or recently diagnosed with osteoporosis, YOU might be at risk for an injury if your bones are not strong enough. Take the fracture risk quiz and discuss the results with your health care provider.
I am a woman and I have reached menopause. I am not sure about my estrogen level. I have a small build, small frame. One of my parents had osteoporosis. One of my grandparents had osteoporosis. In general I eat well but may be lacking some
nutrients.
I do not take vitamins/ minerals on a daily/regular basis.
SAVE THE DATE PRESENTED BY THE MILLENNIUM-SEAT PLEASANT CLUB OF THE NATIONAL CAPITAL AREA OPERA NOVA, AND NORTHERN VIRGINIA CHAPTER OF THE NATIONAL COALITION OF 100 BLACK WOME N
I take vitamins/minerals on a daily regular basis. I take calcium supplements daily/regularly. I do NOT get very much exercise. I feel like I am losing height as I get older. I smoke Common Risk Factors of Osteoporosis: • • • •
Age - Risk increases with age Gender - Affects more women than men Family History - If one of your parents had osteoporosis , you are more likely to get it Menopause - The hormone estrogen helps to maintain bone. when estrogen levels drop at menopause bones may be at risk.
2014 Vocal Arts Contestants
For more information, contact: Darnell Wise Lightbourn, Chairwoman, darnellw2000@yahoo.com, (703) 786-0786 Joan C. McIver, joanmciver889@yahoo.com, (202) 669-9077 Donation: $20 Adults / $10 Youth (10–18 years)
ASK YOUR DOCTOR ABOUT VITAMIN D AND CALCIUM SUPPLEMENTS
Walker Chapel United Methodist Church 4102 North Glebe Road, Arlington, VA 22207
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May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
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Let’s Do Lunch and Look Good Too By Robin Finnell, Wardrobe Stylist Feel great about You! Call and meet Robin for a private wardrobe consultation In her studio. Appointments available day and evening
“1000 thanks for sprinkling your Fairy Godmother sparkles all over my desire to find the perfect graduation dress.”
- Erika P., Happy Client in Arlington, Va. SPRING
2015
W
omen lunches, power lunches, ladies lunches, charity lunches, Lunch and Learns, birthday lunches, lunches with our gal pals and let’s not forget, brunch. WHAT TO WEAR? So many choices, I want them all! Did you know that every woman can look fabulous in today’s top trends regardless of her body type? It just takes knowing what the right styles and colors are, for your specific body, hair color and skin tone. Defining your personal style can makes you feel comfortable and look confident. We come in all sizes and shapes. The five basic body types are: triangle, inverted triangle, rectangle, oval and hourglass. Ultimately the goal is creating balance to allow us to ROCK our clothing. Necklines, collar types, sleeve lengths, jacket lengths and shapes, princess seaming, waistline placement or lack of a waistline, hem lengths, skirt shapes, pant shapes, leg openings, hem heights, all have an effect on how clothing fits your body and either enhances or detracts. Skin tones can be warm, cool or neutral. The right color will complement your skin tone and make you appear rested and alive. The wrong color will have the opposite effect and you’ll look tired or ill. Have you ever felt really good and have someone ask you if you are tired? Conversely, have you ever been tired and had someone say how great you look? Color is a powerful tool! So what ARE we wearing for all these wonderful lunches? Ladies who lunch have a spectrum of options. DRESSES are the prevailing choice, especially for younger women, although admired and worn by all. Prints or solids, embellished or plain, shirtwaist, empire waist, or no waist; sleeveless, cap, short, three-quarter length, bracelet, or long sleeves. Sheaths still run the show, yet A-lines, and full-skirted dresses are popping up everywhere. Throw on a jacket, cardigan, bolero and your look becomes more professional. SUITS have come a long way! Seldom do you see a basic black or navy suit. Bright colors are “in,” especially for spring! Fabrics range from multi-color tweed to jacquard prints, to colored washed denim. Important elements are embellishments, fringe, color blocking, and mixed media. Going somewhere fun? Add a hat or fascinator! educate. empower. inspire. inform.
SUMMER
2015
SOFT SUITING is another “go to” option. Knit jackets and cardigans can be just as elegant when paired with flirty or pencil skirts. Pants are still a wardrobe staple and the new wide leg is comfortable and glamorous. Pair it with a simple sweater and statement necklace or fabulous pearls. The skinny leg pant with a jacket and scarf is an easy look and will take you to more casual venues. Now that we are dressed and ready dine, the next question is WHERE to go? So many choices, I want to try them all! The Doncaster Collection is an upscale women’s clothing collection using some of the finest European fabrics in Missy, Petite and Women’s sizes 0-24. She works out of her Tyson’s Corner studio by appointment. Doncaster: a fashion experience by invitation.
Robin Finnell Wardrobe Stylist The Doncaster Collection 7700 Leesburg Pike, Suite 123 Falls Church, VA rbfinnell@gmail.com 703-623-3391 www.doncaster.com/robinbfinnell Robin Finnell has been dressing women for more than 20 years. With a degree in Fashion Merchandising, she began her career in retail management. After moving to the metro DC area 21 years ago, she became a volunteer with Suited for Change, a non-profit that provides low income women with clothing for their interviews and jobs, and she realized she had found her passion. Robin became a professional wardrobe stylist and image consultant more than 12 years ago and has never looked back. She is married and the proud mother of a college age son.
May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
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LEADERSHIP WITH PURPOSE AND PASSION presents STANDUP AND LEAD TRAINING WORKSHOPS! Are you ready to stand up and lead? Anxious to move to the next level of success? Seeking practical leadership tools for your skill box? This workshop is for YOU!
July 22, 2015 LEADERSHIP – ARE YOU READY? Learn how to effectively step into your new leadership role Communicate in today’s multi-cultural work environment Obtain practical tools for leading with excellence! Registration:$75 $55 Early Registration ends 6/22/15 (Includes lunch)
Janet Ford
Go to: www.lwpap.com/lwpap/upcoming/ You’ll also receive a FREE audio entitled, “Leadership - The Real Thing”! Location: 1757 Golf Club, 45120 Waxpool Rd., Dulles, VA 20166 Time: 11am – 2:30pm Want more information? Call us at 573-673-9024 Vendor Opportunities are Available – Send Request to: jford@lwpap.com
C.Scott er Dorri downe. h s li b u hP ns ent - La ents wit s and cli CA chocolate ev d n ie fr AN YM VA WOM sponsor of the a e b to proud
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May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
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I love distributi ng and be ing a part of the VA WOMAN publicatio think the n. I education a better wa y to go. Th rticles are the e respons readers is e from phenome nal...clien clients...t ts , clie hank you VA WOMA nts, Thank yo N! u - Leesburg for teaching. Business Owner of service business
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Invites you to an
PO BOX 802 | MCLEAN, VA 22101 | WWW.LOUDOUNWOMANMAGAZINE.COM
AUTHOR EVENT
featuring NY Times Best Seller Rachel Renee Russell, her two daughters, Erin and Nikki and Local Author Michelle Spady
Date: Sunday June 28, 2015
2:00 pm Networking, Shopping Gathering 3:00 pm Luncheon Served and Author Readings
Location: River Creek Country Club 43800 Olympic Blvd Leesburg, VA 20176 Attire: Cost:
Sunday Best! 55.00 Earlybird thru June 7, 2015 65.00 Regular
Luncheon. Signings. Shopping. (Vendors with Unique Products)
Rachel Renee Russell is the author of the #1 New York times Best selling children’s book series, Dork Diaries. The series was inspired by the real life middle school experiences of her two daughters, Erin and Nikki who also help write and illustrate the books. Dork Diaries, which currently has over 20 million copies in print has been translated into 35 different languages worldwide. the series was recently optioned as a movie by Lionsgate Summit Films. Ms. Russell will be reading and signing from her newest book in the series, Dork Diaries: Tales From a Not-so-Dorky Drama Queen. Book will be released Tuesday June 2.
Michelle Spady Local Author of four books is an avid reader and writer. Her latest fiction book, Enough Was Never Enough: A Novella was released earlier this year. The easy read is a great addition to every woman’s summer reading list.
For ticket information Ph: 301.526.8440 email: publisher@vawoman.com Or email: Eileen@vawoman.com educate. empower. inspire. inform.
www.loudounwomanmagazine.com May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
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...Is It Hot In Here? By Dr. Gloria Ivey-Crowe
“I highly recommend Dr. Ivey Crowe. Her physical exam and consultation is by far the most extensive doctor visit I have ever had. She was patient, thorough and the entire exam took over an hour - with HER.” - Carolyn S., Fairfax County resident
T
hat’s a common question asked by many women who are on a journey to their “climacteric.” No, not towards the climax but the “change of life” for women. The climacteric, menopause, change of life, or whatever you call it, happens to all women at some point in their lives. Menopause is defined as having no menstrual cycle for twelve months, and all other symptoms can vary for each woman, such as temperature changes, moodiness and irritability. Picture the women sitting in a room or meeting and without warning, she starts sweating profusely and complaining it is hot. She’s the person in church frantically fanning, experiencing her own “private summer” while everyone else is unaffected. She is kicking the covers off at night and opening windows when it is already below freezing.
“I love Dr. Gloria, one of the best doctors in Loudoun and funny too!” - Kristie B., Loudoun resident At 20 weeks of life, while in our mother’s womb, we have our maximum number of eggs. During a normal menstrual cycle, intricate reactions between our hormones (estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone) prime the lining of the uterus (endometrium) to nourish a fertilized egg. For most women, an egg is released during ovulation around cycle day 14. The egg is viable for about 12-24 hours and awaits fertilization by a sperm. If fertilization does not occur, the thick uterine lining is not needed and with proper signaling, it is sloughed off and bleeding occurs. Hence your 5-7 day menstrual cycle.
genetics, surgery, medicines, toxins, and radiation. The average age is 51 years old. Women in the same family tend to complete menopause around the same time. However, the manner and number of years prior to completion can vary within the same family. Women undergoing removal of their ovaries will experience a surgical menopause. Medications such as Lupron (used for endometriosis) and Tamoxifen (adjunct for breast cancer) can cause a medical menopause. Large doses of toxins used to treat cancers such as chemotherapy and radiation may also cause menopause. If the ovaries stop working before age 40 without any of the above situations present, it is referred to as premature ovarian failure (POF). This may be due to genetic or chromosomal factors such as Turner’s or Fragile X syndrome, autoimmune disorders such as Addison’s disease, Lupus, Type 1 diabetes, Sjrogen’s, hypothyroidism, Graves, or rheumatoid arthritis. The production of female hormones comes from ovaries (65%) and the remainder divided between the skin and adrenals. Ovarian hormones are responsible for wrinkle free skin, vaginal lubrication, bone protection, clarity of thoughts, mood, memory, regular cycles, temperature regulation and libido. It’s easy to see that a loss of these hormones will lead to some degree of deficits.
“We get many referrals from Dr. Ivey Crowe. She is great and all of our clients say nice things about her.” “Great partnership we have with her and her staff.” - Reston Radiology Consultants
The age at which menopause occurs is affected by multiple factors:
For more information call (703) 834-1071 or visit www.womenphysicians.org Interested in weight loss visit womenphysiciansforweightmanagement.com 14
May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
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(or am I having my own private summer?)
The transition to menopause for most women is gradual and may occur over 2-8 years as symptoms wax and wane over this period of time. The more common symptoms are hot and cold flashes, night sweats, sleep disturbances ranging from frequent awakenings to insomnia, headaches, migraines, memory lapses, fogginess of thought, irritability, fatigue, pain with intercourse, vaginal itching, vaginal dryness, weight gain, lack of interest in sex, dry skin, urinary frequency, urinary incontinence, irregular cycles, wrinkles, acne, and hair loss. Our risk for heart disease and stroke increases with the loss of estrogen. The diagnosis of menopause can be accomplished with blood or saliva tests measuring hormone levels of FSH, LH, estradiol, progesterone and testosterone. High levels of FSH and LH >20ng/ml along with no cycle for 12 months is diagnostic for menopause. Low levels of estradiol, progesterone and testosterone are also found in menopause. The treatment for menopause is varied and may consist of herbs, essential oils, plant-based formulations, bio-identicals, pellets or other non-hormonal pharmaceuticals. Your healthcare provider can do some initial testing and make recommendations for specific therapies. For those who want to do nonconventional therapies, compounding pharmacies may be helpful. Whether you decide to weather the storm alone or seek professional help with your symptoms, know that you have options. Know the triggers such as: hot weather, smoking, spicy foods, caffeine, stress, eating sugar, alcohol or tight clothing. Relief is around the corner! Ask for it! educate. empower. inspire. inform.
Dr. Gloria Ivey-Crowe
Dr. Gloria Ivey-Crowe received her M.D. degree from Georgetown University School of Medicine and did her residency training in Obstetrics & Gynecology at Georgetown University Hospital. Dr Ivey-Crowe is the owner of Women Physicians of Northern Virginia, an all female medical team, with an office in Reston and Ashburn, VA. Dr. Ivey-Crowe has three children. In her spare time she enjoys needlecraft and reading.
Women Physicians of Northern Virginia Visit one of our convenient offices: 44110 Ashburn Village Blvd | Suite 237 | Ashburn, VA 20147
703.834.1071
www.womenphysicians.org May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
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Doctor, Doctor – I’m Weighing Less! By Dr. Kenneth M. Brooks, FACC
D
id you know that one of the leading causes of health problems in the United states is OBESITY? Let’s face it, obesity in America is an epidemic. Our weight gain, poor eating habits and foods we eat are killing us. Recognizing that no one chooses to be overweight, unhealthy and uncomfortable our team of medical experts have brought a new keotic weight loss program into my cardiology practice. As a Medical Doctor, with 30 years of practicing as an interventional cardiologist I address the ravages of a modern lifestyle. In 2012 I brought a ketotic weight loss program into the cardiology practice and began supervising patients in their quest to:
LOSE FAT LOSE INCHES LOSE 2-5 LBS. PER WEEK
Amazing! As our patients started to lose weight, their need for blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol medication was greatly reduced. The program is now a mainstay and a part of my daily practice that I highly recommend to all who want a healthier lifestyle and improved health. After much research on the effects of GLUTEN we launched a new product line – OUR OWN. The Healthy Weigh NowTM is a low carb, low calorie, gluten free product line that helps patients lose 2-5 pounds per week. The medically supervised program works. “Our clients are the biggest losers. While losing weight and following our life long program with a maintenance plan, our patients gain the benefits of healthy living and improved health – the best prescription of all.” For more information and to start losing today 703-707-8383
The Healthy Weight NowTM PH: 703 707.8383 1830 Town Center Drive Suite 401 Reston, VA 20910 44055 Riverside Parkway Suite 244 Lansdowne, VA 20176 3023 Hamaker Court Suite 100 Fairfax,VA 22031 16
May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
Features/Highlights: Lose Weight and Keep it OFF! Personal Weekly Coaching with Body Composition Free Seminars Weekly Three Locations
Call today for an appointment 703.707.8383 Delicious Food And GLUTEN FREE Maintenance Lifetime Programs educate. empower. inspire. inform.
THWN Journal From BIG LOSERS! I LOST 40 LBS! Woo Hoo! “It IS one of they only programs I have ever experienced that helped me lose weight and improve my health. It was not a diet... it was a lifestyle and I feel so much better about myself.” - Roxie C. Reston, VA
“Not feeling full (and fat) all the time is priceless. I learned to eat and today am healthy. The doctors are cardiologists... they get it! “ - Sherry P. Reston,VA
“When I went to the workshop to learn about the program, I was quite surprised. Too I was open – uhhh, not, reallly… “Another diet, I thought. “No!” I reminded myself …Been there done that and not going to ever diet again. Having had enough I was prepared to resist in a nano second; yet, after listening to the information, I found myself engaged and felt being transformed as it was happening. Not only did I get a lesson on nutrition, I also learned how much damage we are all doing to ourselves and body with the foods we eat. The free seminar on food, food intake, history of food and what we eat and why was just what the patient needed. After speaking to us about the value of health as it relates to weight, the Medical doctor answered questions about the program, foods, lifestyle and the changes we must make if healthy weight is one’s intention for optimum health. Years ago, eating “on the run” or a life style of fast food intake was not the norm. We have all become busy, stressed and microwave mavens. To maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle which includes less sugar, limited carbs, greens and lean meats is something that I have heard all of my adult life. The difference today, THAT night I heard felt and understood the value and connection of what it takes to be healthy. It all connects. No explanations. No excuses. No resistance. Biting the bullet and making a decision for excellent living is a choice – I made the choice THAT night and am not looking back…or eating badly again ever again either! Fighting illness with medication is NOT the only answer. Eating properly and what to eat was the emphasis of the The Healthy Weigh NowTM program. I am enjoying the journey. I want to be healthy. YES, I also want to lose weight but mostly I want to keep it off and live a long time too. In less than 2 weeks, . I have learned a lot. I am growing. My skin looks better. I feel lighter. I am loving life and the staff’ including Dr. Brooks, Jill and the Health Coaches are great. Best of all… I am 7 lbs done and have just begun. Stay tuned…. I have more to lose and will be excited for you to see.” - S.D., Sterling, VA
Dr. Kenneth M. Brooks, FACC
FACC Board Certified Cardiologist and Medical Director THWN Dr. Brooks has been in practice as an interventional cardiologist for more than 30 years addressing the ravages of a modern lifestyle that has led to an obesity epidemic. He has seen thousands of patients with high blood pressure, diabetes , high cholesterol, and has been frustrated by the increased need for medications. After extensive research on the effect of GLUTEN Dr. Brooks launched his own product line - The Healthy Weigh NowTM. Dr. Brooks is married and lives in Northern VA.
educate. empower. inspire. inform.
May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
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Don’t
Me
3D Mammography at no additional cost to you!
A
woman’s chance of developing breast cancer in her lifetime is 1 in 8, and early detection is the single most important factor to combating the disease. Mammography is capable of detecting most breast cancer in women with no symptoms, but it also carries a very uncomfortable reputation. To ease the stress and fears associated with it, our experienced technologists have put together a list of what you can expect when you put your health first, and visit us for your annual mammogram. 1. Determine the best time to schedule. We suggest scheduling your mammogram 1-2 weeks after your menstrual cycle as your breasts tend to not be as tender. For women who no longer experience a menstrual cycle, we suggest taking your hormonal cycle into account to best identify when you are the least tender.
6. Communicate with your technologist. Talk to your technologist about any concerns you have regarding the procedure. She understands the key is correct body positioning which results in a better exam with less pain. Your technologist will walk you through various positions to capture the appropriate images.
2. Schedule your appointment. Loudoun Imaging Center/Ashburn is open Monday through Friday. If Saturday appointments work better for your schedule, our Fair Oaks Imaging Center is also available to complete your exam and has Saturday hours. Appointments can be made by phone or online at www.restonradiology.com.
7. Discomfort. We know this exam has potential to be uncomfortable for you. Breast compression is a key component of the exam, but body positioning is even more important. Our technologists will help ease your mind about the discomfort of the exam. We find many patients are surprised the discomfort is less than anticipated, but we acknowledge that each patient’s pain tolerance varies.
3. Plan to bring prior exams with you. If you have had a prior mammogram with another facility, it is extremely important for you to bring all breast related films/cd’s with you. By having your prior images/films available for our radiologists, it will prevent any delays in your returning results to your physician. If you have any questions, please ask our front desk staff when making your appointment! 4. Day-of preparations. We advise our patients to wear a 2 piece outfit to their appointment. We will provide a cloth robe and will ask you to undress from the waist up. It is important to not apply deodorant, lotion or body powder under your breast or under arm area on the day of your appointment. We provide deodorant for our patients to apply following their exam. In addition, we find arriving well hydrated and with a satisfied stomach helps ease our patients’ nerves. 5. Pinpoint body markings. We will ask you to identify any known moles or scars on your breasts by applying a special sticker. This helps the radiologist properly identify these markings.
8. Exam Length. For a screening mammogram, the exam length is approximately 15 minutes. For more comprehensive exams, the time may vary. Should you have multiple studies with us that would require you to wait between exams, we provide a relaxed soothing waiting area for our patients. 9. Receiving your results. After your exam is complete, our radiologists will read your images. Reports are completed by the next business day. If additional imaging is needed, we will call you within the next few business days. Otherwise, you will receive your result letter in the mail. We strive to mail result letters as soon as they are made available. Delivery time varies due to the postal service schedule. 10. Thank you for putting your health first. It is time to celebrate you! Allow yourself a sigh of relief that you have put your health first. Your family and friends will appreciate the time you took to care for yourself so they can enjoy YOU for many years to come!
Who We Are: Reston Radiology is a diverse group of board certified and fellowship trained physicians. Our radiologists have all trained at the most prestigious academic centers in the USA.
The radiologists and technologists from Reston Radiology Consultants care for patients at imaging centers across Northern Virginia including: Fair Oaks Imaging Center 4001 Fair Ridge Drive Suite 103, Fairfax, Virginia 22033 Loudoun Imaging Center/Ashburn 20905 Professional Plaza Suite 100, Ashburn, Virginia 20147 MRI of Reston 1800 Town Center Drive Suite 115, Reston, Virginia 20190 PET of Reston 1800 Town Center Drive Suite 115, Reston, Virginia 20190 Pink Ribbon Facility (through Hologic)
Call today to schedule an appointment and visit our website for more information.
571-223-0230 18
May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
www.restonradiology.com educate. empower. inspire. inform.
Braces Q & A By Dr. John H. Jones III DDS But Dr. Jones, I Thought You Told Me… Orthodontics is the most uniquely visible specialty in dentistry. Consequently, there are a plethora of questions that surrounds this specialty and its delivery to and treatment of patients who are in need of comprehensive treatment. Once the brackets and the first archwire have been placed on the teeth, some of the questions that you may ask are: How long will my teeth be sore? Expect the teeth to be somewhat tender the first few days after your braces are adjusted. Take ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Nuprin) to alleviate the discomfort. The teeth will not bother you unless you try to eat with them. While you are doing other things they should not bother you. The sooner you start chewing the faster you will adjust. Try not to baby the teeth. What fluoride?! I never saw one in my bag. In your bag, you will find a starter bottle of fluoride rinse to be used EVERY night. We know that you probably have fluoride in your toothpaste but this is different. This will protect your mouth at night while you are sleeping. It is very important and will help to avoid the white spots that can form on your teeth if they are not brushed properly. This helps if you are following our diet and stay away from soft drinks that are very acidic and full of sugar. Remember, they are your teeth, please take care of them. Will the inside of my lips be sore forever? Expect, from time to time, that your cheeks and lips may become irritated. You will build up callous. If an ulcer forms, use the wax that we gave you and place it over the braces that seem to be causing the problem. The wax will stay in one place even while eating if you make sure that the area is dry before putting the wax into place. Pull off a small piece, roll it up in a little ball and stick it over the braces. Do I still have to see my dentist for cleanings and check-ups? YES, YES, YES! Please continue to see your dentist for regularly scheduled cleanings. We would like to see you go every four months rather than every six months to stay on top of things. This is very important. What we would also like to do is coordinate your cleaning appointments with an orthodontic visit so that we can remove your wires for the cleanings. This makes the hygienists’ job quite a bit easier. If you schedule a cleaning appointment, please let us know well in advance (at least 4 weeks) so that we can coordinate appointments with both offices. Thanks! Why did I get this space between my front teeth? Sometimes things look worse before they get better. The teeth will move in different directions as the teeth are straightening out. You may see a space between your two teeth that was never there before or teeth that seemed perfectly straight before the braces were placed may not seem as straight. Please be patient and things will start to improve. That space will close and those teeth will line up, I promise. In order to straighten the worst of the teeth, the straighter teeth may be pulled out of alignment but eventually they all work together to give you that great smile we are all working towards.
Jones Orthodontics 20 Pidgeon Hill Dr. #206 • Sterling, Va 20165 703-421-0893 • Jones4smiles.com educate. empower. inspire. inform.
I was only eating mashed potatoes when the brace broke off. Sometimes braces do not break off immediately after they are loosened. Sometimes that hard candy, bagel, or pizza crust weakens the glue but not enough for it to come off. The next thing you know, the bracket pops off while you’re sitting in class or eating mashed potatoes. The important thing is that you will call us ASAP to let us know. The brace does not necessarily have to be replaced right away but we want to know about it, even if you leave a message on the recorder. If you wait until the day of your appointment to tell us you have a brace off, we may not be able to fix it. If we know ahead of time we can make arrangements. My teeth are loose. Is this okay? Are they going to fall out? Yes, this is all right so do not worry about them falling out, unless it is a baby tooth of course. We want them to get loose so that we can move them around. If they get too loose we will let you know but this is rare. Most people notice this after they have been hit with an elbow, basketball, or some form of trauma to the mouth. And finally, The Major Question That is Asked… How much longer will the braces be on? Remember, the time we told you is a rough estimate. It could take a little longer or it may not take as long. A lot of what happens depends on you. If you do not wear the elastics, plan on adding time. If you like to chew gum, plan on adding time. Missed some appointments? Plan on adding time. Even if all goes smoothly, it could take a while longer. No two people have the same teeth that move the same way and we do not want to rush the final result. Asking at each visit, “How Much Longer” will not help you get your braces off any earlier. But, no one can blame you for trying!
John H. Jones III DDS Serving children and adults in Loudoun County for over 20 years Dr. Jones graduated from Purdue University. He continued his education at the Howard University College of Dentistry where he earned his DDS. The following year he completed the General Dental Residency program at The National Institute of Mental Health at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Washington, DC. He went on to complete his Orthodontic Residency at Georgetown University. Dr. Jones has been practicing orthodontics in Sterling since 1993.
Monday - Thursday: 8:15-6:00 Friday: Closed • Saturday: By appt
May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
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Live your life with theirs in mind.
Together let’s start planning for your family’s future.
Valerie P. Kaiser*, CFP® Kaiser Financial Solutions LLC** CA Ins. Lic. 0F39945 8075 Leesburg Pike Suite 200 Vienna, VA 22182 (703) 610-4073 valerie@kaiserfinancialsolutions.com www.kaiserfinancialsolutions.com
*Registered Representative offering investments through NYLIFE Securities LLC (member FINRA/ SIPC), A Licensed Insurance Agency and wholly owned subsidiary of New York Life Insurance and an agent licensed to sell insurance through New York Life Insurance Company and may be licensed to sell insurance through various other independent unaffiliated companies. **Kaiser Financial Solutions LLC is not owned or operated by New York Life Insurance Company or its affiliates. SMRU1614160(Exp.08/07/2016)
© 2013 New York Life Insurance Company, 51 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10010
Life Insurance. Retirement. Investments.
ValerieKaiser_LL44 DBA_11x13-75_Mag_V_Co.indd 1
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May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
Kaiser Financial Solutions LLC educate. empower. inspire. inform. 12/18/14
11:16 AM
You are Powerful BUT Are you Prepared? By Valerie P. Kaiser CFP
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any women are more involved with their finances now, than compared to a few short years ago. But, are they getting the most out of their investment or investing in line with their life stage? To take full advantage of the opportunities in the financial markets and ensure that your money matters are sound today and tomorrow, it is important to take even greater control of your financial future.
amount of time taking care of others – and that sometimes means setting our own needs aside. But, investing for your own retirement is a necessity that you cannot afford to put off. •
“Architects” of Well-Designed Financial Solutions Financial security has become a top priority among women. And, security about any topic is rooted in confidence and knowledge. Part of becoming a savvy investor is making a commitment to learn to learn about investment basics and increasing your ability to confidently manage your finances.
Step outside your comfort zone.. An important part of investing is to identify the amount of risk you are comfortable with. When it comes to their investments, women tend to be less willing to accept risk and generally gravitate toward ‘safer’ investments. Following the strategy could leave you more susceptible to the long-term effects of inflation which could make it more difficult to achieve your financial goals. While no investment should keep you awake at night, considering options that carry slightly more risk than you build a strong financial foundation. Your financial professional can help identify appropriate options that will continue to support your goals. Wise Women Money Quiz: How Money Wise Are You? Cynthia Fick, 2011
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•
Be involved in your money matters… When it comes to household responsibilities, many couples find it easier and more productive to divide and conquer. This may be a sound practice for household chores, but it is not a strategy that should be followed when finances are concerned. It is more important for both spouses to be equally involved in all joint financial discussions and decisions.
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Develop the ability to manage your own assets… There is a 90% likelihood that a woman will be financially self-reliant at some point in her life due to divorce, becoming a widow, or choosing to marry later in life or not at all. 1
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Do your homework… Successful investors research option and thoroughly understand what they are buying. Women are responsible for most of the consumer purchases in the U.S. This shows that women are generally educated and careful consumers, which can make them savvy investors, too.
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Put your needs first… If you are like most women, you spend a good
Valerie P. Kaiser, CFP® 703-610-4073 www.kaiser nancialsolutions.com “It is important to me to enrich your life by taking any financial issues, concerns and questions off your mind. You’ve worked hard for all you have. I help you protect it and have a secure future with the freedom to do what you want. This is the greatest contribution I can make.”
Valerie Kaiser, CFP® is the founder of Kaiser Financial Solutions, a firm specializing in financial planning and wealth management services. She has more than 18 years of experience in financial planning, implementation and service. Valerie works with families and business owners who want a realistic approach to wealth accumulation and reduced investment risk with better coordination of personal and business assets; all to enhance retirement security and improve family wealth transfers. She holds the Certified Financial Planner™ professional designation and is both an Investment Advisor Representative (IAR) with Eagle Strategies, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor and a Registered Representative with NYLIFE Securities LLC. Valerie and her husband Bruce reside in Virginia where they enjoy being with their large family of five children, a daughter-in-law, son-inlaw and five grandchildren.
This educational, third-party article is provided as a courtesy by Valerie Kaiser, CFP®, Agent, (CA#0F39945) New York Life Insurance Company. To learn more about the information or topics discussed, please contact Valerie Kaiser, CFP® at 703-610-4073.
Proudly serving clients in northern Va including, Loudoun, Arlington, Prince William. Fairfax and Winchester counties. I am an Agent licensed to sell insurance through New York Life Insurance Company and may be licensed with various other independent unaffiliated insurance companies in the states of AZ, CA, CO, DC, FL, MD, NC, NY, OH, OR, SC, TX, WV and VA. No insurance business may be conducted outside this/these state(s) referenced. CA License # 0F39945I am a Financial Adviser offering investment advisory services through Eagle Strategies LLC, A Registered Investment Adviser in the states of AZ, CA, CO, DC, FL, MD, NC, NY, OH, OR, SC, TX, WV and VA. As such, these services are strictly intended for individuals residing in the states referenced. Additionally, I am a Registered Representative of and offer securities products & services through NYLIFE Securities LLC, (Member FINRA/SIPC), A Licensed Insurance Agency. In this regard, this communication is strictly intended for individuals residing in the states of AZ, CA, CO, DC, FL, MD, NC, NY, OH, OR, SC, TX, WV and VA. No offers may be made or accepted from any resident outside the specific state(s) referenced. My address is 8075 Leesburg Pike, Suite 200, Vienna, VA 22182 and my phone number is 703-610-4073.I offer a variety of products that can help you meet a number of insurance and financial needs, including, but not limited to college funding, retirement, managing costs for extended periods of care and lifetime income strategies. Please contact me to help you fully analyze your needs and recommend appropriate solutions. Neither Kaiser Financial Solutions, LLC nor New York Life Insurance Company, nor its agents, provides tax, legal, or accounting advice. Please consult your own tax, legal, or accounting professional before making any decision. .Kaiser Financial Solutions, LLC is not owned or operated by New York Life Insurance Company or its affiliates.
educate. empower. inspire. inform.
May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
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Are you a woman recently divorced? Are you interested in a positive group to grow with after the fact?
Spring at Oatlands May 9 and 10 Mother’s Day Afternoon Teas at Oatlands May 16 Photography Workshop May 16 and 17 Spring Farm Tour May 17 and 31 Strawberry Tea in Emmet House May 24 Contemplative Yoga in Nature May 26 Call to Artists Deadline for Submissions May 30 Oatlands Strawberry Festival June 6 and 7; 13 and 14 Children’s Outdoor Theatre June 14 Afternoon Tea at Oatlands June 28 Contemplative Yoga Afternoon Tea at Oatlands June 29 Four Seasons of Oatlands Art Show Summer Camp Registration for camps in June, July and August is now open! Choose from Archaeology Field Camp, Arts and Crafts Camp, Brownie Badge Camp, Junior Badge Camp, Time Travelers Camp and Drama Camp! Visit www.oatlands.org for more information on events and programs at Oatlands
A National Trust Historic Site Historic Preservation. Conservation. Education. 20850 Oatlands Plantation Lane • Leesburg, VA 20175 703.777.3174 • www.oatlands.org 22
May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
Join monthly Women’s DIVORCE SUPPORT GROUP A positive and safe place for women to share, care, talk and grow together during and after the divorce. friendship, support & encouragement Open discussion Guest Speakers Tips and tools for next step success When: Wednesday May 27, 2015 Time: 7:00pm - 9:00pm 14655 Piedmont Vista Drive Haymarket, VA 20169 Cost $25 Refreshments will be served For reservations (required) Facilitator: Eileen Carlucci-Moses eileenc@vawoman.com group does not provide counseling, legal or financial advice
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Voting Rights For Women Part 2
For Part 1 see our March/April 2015 issue
By Patricia Wirth
I
n 1916, Alice Paul and Lucy Burns broke ties with NAWSA and established the National Women’s Party (NWP) that included public demonstrations and protests, methods considered militant at the time. These efforts became the final fight to win the vote through a Constitutional amendment. In January 1917, Paul, Burns and other NWP members began to peacefully picket outside the White House to galvanize public support. They became known as the Silent Sentinels. When America entered WWI, public sentiment changed toward the protesters and beginning in June 1917 the suffragists were arrested on bogus charges such as unlawful assembly or obstructing traffic. Sentences were initially light, but when they didn’t deter the suffragists, sentences became longer and fines outrageous. When the suffragists refused to pay the fines on the grounds that they were innocent of the charges, they were incarcerated in retaliation either in the DC jail or the Occoquan Workhouse, a prison farm operated by the DC penal system. Over time more than 200 women were incarcerated. About a third of those suffragists imprisoned were sent to the Occoquan Workhouse - some for as long as seven months, many in solitary confinement – where they endured humiliation, beatings, forced feedings and inhumane prison conditions complete with rats and maggot-infested food. Their crime: they wanted equality! These women ranged in age from 19 to 73 and came from many different states. Some were recent immigrants and others were from wellestablished, politically connected families one of whom had attended a dinner with her husband at the White House. Many were college-educated and married, and included nurses, teachers, social workers, physicians and a geologist. To protest the poor conditions at the workhouse, some suffragists, including Alice Paul and Lucy Burns, went on hunger strikes. Fearing that the suffragists would become martyrs if they starved to death, prison officials had them strapped down and force fed. Under the direction of the prison superintendent, suffragists also endured at least one brutal attack that took place during the night of November 14, 1917. This became known as as the Night of Terror. Word of the abusive treatment of suffragists began to leak out and editorials were published by local newspapers. What is being done to memorialize these brave women so few of us know about? The Turning Point Suffragist Memorial Association is a 501(c)(3) dedicated to honoring the suffragists by raising awareness and building a national memorial that will reflect the strength of these women who came from all over the country and the significance of their struggle. In partnership with NOVA Parks, the TPSM national memorial and gardens will be located on two acres near the spot where women were imprisoned in the Occoquan Workhouse (the original building was destroyed).
How can you help? Check out our website, www.suffragistmemorial. org. Please join our association and/or make a donation. Contact us with your questions and join a committee. We are working toward raising $1million by November 30, 2015 to meet the terms of our MOU with NOVA Parks. Our current campaign, A “Grand” Thank You, Memorialize the Suffragists, is seeking 1,000 donors (individuals or groups) who will give $1,000. The goal is to have the $7 million memorial built no later than the hundred year anniversary of the 19th Amendment, 2020, but completion by 2017 to commemorate the incarcerations at the Occoquan Workhouse is preferred. Please spread the word about the TPSM and about what these women endured. Like us on Facebook and get on our distribution list. The Turning Point Suffragist Memorial. Opportunity is Knocking! The centennial of the ratification of the 19th Amendment giving aLL women the right to vote is just 5 years awa. You now have the unique opportunity to become a part of this historic anniversary by contributing to the construction of a national, garden style memorial that will acknowledge the suffrage struggle that covered more than seven decades. Women were willing to endure harsh imprisonment and even death while advocating for the right to have a voice in their government. Contribute today! Sponsorships WITH naming rights are available. For more information: email Patricia Wirth at pawirth@cox.net
The Mission:
To memorialize the suffragists whose harsh imprisonment at the Occoquan Workhouse served as a turning point for recognition of a woman’s right to vote and to educate, inspire and empower present and future generations to remain vigilant in the quest for equal rights.
Patricia D. Wirth, Executive Director Turning Point Suffragist Memorial
Pat Wirth will tell you that her career has been one of circumstance, timing and opportunity. She never had a job she didn’t like, loves learning and applying the new-found knowledge to move up and on. Pat began her career by providing administrative, management and paralegal services to government contractor employers first in Pennsylvania and then in Virginia. After 30 years in car care and with numerous awards and recognitions to her credit, she closed the doors of her environmental award-winning business in September 2013. Pat has worked and volunteers continuously in the non-profit sector for over three decades in executive, management, and fundraising positions for professional, trade and charity organizations; she recently earned her certification as a non-profit consultant. She expects to use her expertise to help others as the next career chapter unfolds. educate. empower. inspire. inform.
May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
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Leading Limousine Lady Starts with Heart - FIRST By Kristina Bouweiri
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n its 25 years in business, Reston Limousine has a long history of supporting charitable causes, with a focus on organizations that help children with illnesses. This is a cause close to my heart, because for the first five years of my marriage and my business, I could not get pregnant. I was working 16 hours a day, seven days a week and answering the phones from my house in the middle of the night. The doctors did not find anything wrong with me so they just kept doing procedures on me and nothing seemed to help. Finally, in 1996 I gave birth to healthy boy girl twins. I was so overcome with joy that I felt a deep desire to give something back in appreciation. As a limousine company we project an aura of wealth and luxury, and so we are always fielding requests for donations – both monetary and in kind. We decided early on that we would focus our corporate philanthropic mission on children’s medical charities. A few years later, we were in Detroit for a holiday and I saw that a local Lebanese baker had won the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year award. My husband at the time was also a Lebanese entrepreneur and I thought that he deserved to win that award. I hired a PR firm (Myers Public Relations) to submit a nomination on our behalf. As the president, Marion Myers, got to know the company she said she would be applying for many other awards as well. She said we could get a lot of PR for all the community service and charity work we were doing. We told her that we weren’t doing it for awards; we were doing it because of our own personal struggles with infertility for five long years. That year we did not make finalist for the Ernst & Young award, but we were recognized with many more accolades over the years including Washington Business
Journal’s Philanthropy Awards for CEO Leadership in 2009 and SmartCEO’s Circle of Excellence Award in Philanthropy in 2010. As a result of all the publicity about our corporate philanthropy, more and more charities started asking us for money and/or in-kind donations. We were so honored that we were being asked to donate to so many worthy charities that we started handing out gift certificates left and right. Six months later, during the month of December, nearly every reservation was paid for with a gift certificate! We learned the lesson then that you cannot give out so many gift certificates or the clients can utilize them all at once and the company can lose money. We also have expanded our community contributions to extend beyond financial donations. As the company grew, I was offered board seats either on the chamber boards or other groups. Today, I sit on the Board of Directors, Advisors or Trustees for the following organizations: Loudoun CEO Cabinet, Loudoun Education Foundation, Dulles Regional Chamber, Route 28 Benefactor, Northern Virginia Transportation Alliance, DC Chamber of Commerce, SmartCEO Magazine, Inova Loudoun Foundation, Enterprising Women Magazine, Fairfax 2015 (The Police & Fire Games,) 100 Women Strong and the George Mason University School of Business Dean’s Council. As a director in these organizations, I am expected to give my time – and my talent for fundraising!
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May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
Giving back comes in many forms for Reston Limousine.
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For the George Mason University School of Business, I co-chair the Women in Business initiative. As part of my responsibilities, I plan five events and fulfill the mission of helping the students, alumni, staff and business community come together to learn, grow and network. For the Loudoun Education Foundation, I chaired the Agnes Meyer Excellence Awards Gala twice and raised more than $20,000 annually for the foundation to give to the teachers. For Inova Loudoun Hospital Foundation, I sat on the annual gala committee and helped encourage other members of the business community to attend the gala and or become donors. Reston Limousine also offers $15,000 in in-kind services annually to Inova Hospital (mostly to enhance their fundraisers) and has partnered with other local businesses, most often with Fortessa, on bi-annual fundraisers to raise money for local charities.
educate. empower. inspire. inform.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinabouweiri • Google Plus: https://plus.google.com/+KristinaBouweiri Twitter: @restonlimo • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/restonlimousine Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kristina.bouweiri?fref=ts PY
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Beyond fundraising, one of my proudest contributions to the community has been to mentor and empower other women in business by sharing my experiences and business strategies. I am on the board for the national publication Enterprising Women, and I attend an annual board meeting in Florida where I participate on a panel as part of the educational component. In years past, I have been part of panels on social media, marketing and how to grow your business in an economic downturn. As a result of my work with Enterprising Women, I was asked to get involved with the GlobeBusiness Summit for Women. I have taught seminars in China, Turkey and Greece, and attended the conference in Paris; I’ll be attending this year’s event in Brazil in May. However, I truly enjoy more direct relationships and partnerships with local women entrepreneurs and professionals, particularly through the monthly networking lunch I founded six years ago, Sterling Women. This event showcases women in business in our local community and features one hour of shopping followed by a great lunch with a dynamic speaker – typically an entrepreneur who runs a local multimillion dollar company or a professional whose talents and skills have earned her national acclaim. This lunch has been so popular that the concept has been licensed and duplicated in four additional cities. There was no venue like it that focused on showcasing women in business and helping them grow their businesses, and it has spawned other groups with a similar concept.
Proud Mom Kristina Bouweiri with her 4 young adults - all glowing, all grown up!
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I LOVE, Love, love Kristina and what she has done to help so many people- specially women. The opportunity to serve as the Hostess for Manassas Sterling Women is a dream come true. Growing daily, I am excited and know that together we are making a difference. Nothing is impossible.” - Shateea Holmes
Kristina Bouweiri 45685 Elmwood Court, Dulles, VA 20166 www.restonlimo.com kbouweiri@restonlimo.com Phone: 703-478-0500 ext 511 “Never say no”
Kristina Bouweiri is President and CEO of Reston Limousine, Washington DC’s premier chauffeured transportation provider and the 13th largest fleet operator in the industry. Starting with only five vehicles in 1990, Bouweiri diversified the business and grew it to a $21 million firm today with 210 vehicles. A longtime supporter of women entrepreneurs, she is the founder of the monthly networking luncheon Sterling Women and co-founder of the annual Virginia Women’s Business Conference. Recognized for her business acumen, Bouweiri also is an international speaker on topics ranging from startup success strategies to the use of social media in growing your business. educate. empower. inspire. inform.
May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
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May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
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Rebecca & Sugar May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
27
College Is Coming…Are You Ready? By Luanne Lee, CCPRS, YOUR COLLEGE PLANNING COACH
Overwhelmed and Confused?
Late Stage College Planning 101…High School Part I: The Making College Affordable Workshop Series
Thursday May 14th 7:00 to 8:30pm Parents, join us for this educational and eye opening workshop to learn the steps you must take to save 25% and more off the college sticker price!
Reserve your seat TODAY! Call 703-928-9036 or Register online: www.yourcollegeplanningcoach.com The George Mason Enterprise Center 4031 University Drive, 1st Floor Conference Center, Fairfax, VA 22030 Workshops are Complimentary… Seating is Limited…Registration is a Must!
The Best College Plan Starts in…Middle School?? Part II: The Making College Affordable Workshop Series
Tuesday May 5th 7:00 to 8:30pm Parents, join us for this educational and eye opening workshop to learn how the path to earning College Merit Scholarships starts as early as Middle School.
ABOUT LUANNE LEE Luanne Lee is a licensed College Planning Relief® specialist with over 20 years in business and personal financial services. Married to Jim for 39 years, she is a proud mother of two young adults, three grandchildren, 3 dogs and 2 cats in the country near Loudoun.
Reserve your seat TODAY! Call 703-928-9036 or Register online: www.yourcollegeplanningcoach.com The George Mason Enterprise Center 4031 University Drive, 1st Floor Conference Center, Fairfax, VA 22030 Workshops are Complimentary… Seating is Limited…Registration is a Must!
Seating is Limited! Register Online at: www.YourCollegePlanningCoach.com 28
May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
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Reality Check By Luanne Lee, CCPRS, YOUR COLLEGE PLANNING COACH
S
pring! The time of year we all look forward to. It’s the end of winter with warmer weather, longer days, green grass and flowers blooming. Spring is also the time of year I start getting “the phone calls.” The calls I dread each year that start out with “Hi Luanne, so-and-so said if anyone can help us you can.” These calls all start out with the same stressful tone and I’m left to deliver the unfortunate reality of college-planning-gone-wrong to a range of parental emotions that include disbelief, dismay, and ultimately anger.
“Believe it or not, my least worry when dealing with my children’s college process was the financial aid implication. WAS I EVER WRONG! Despite both parents having doctoral degrees, Luanne’s coaching and expertise superseded every aspect of college financial planning. Luanne simplified the complex process by educating us on current mandates to maximize the aid for both of our children. I HIGHLY recommend and refer her often frequently to my friends and patients.” - T.D., PhD. , Haymarket, VA
Allow me to share: My 4.2 GPA, 2080 SAT, all AP classes, son/daughter didn’t get accepted at UVA/Tech/JMU…WHY?? Or…They got accepted, but the Financial Aid Award only offers loans! Where is the aid? Where are the scholarships we expected for our bright child? Or…We only applied to state schools because the privates are SO expensive!
Reality: The competition is fierce! In the 2014/15 school year UVA received 31,021 applications, 8997 were accepted, 3706 enrolled. At Virginia Tech 20,744 applied, 15,067 were accepted, 5,474 enrolled. At James Madison 22,550 applied, 14,823 were accepted, 4,358 enrolled. Approximately 30% of enrolled students were international or out of state students. Reality: At most state schools the largest piece of the Financial Aid pie is in Federal Loans. The only Grant Aid received is when there is financial need and that is when you have an AGI of less than $35K. Reality: Private schools had a 47% average discount rate in 2014. Private schools offer Merit Scholarships. Private school students graduate in 4 years 62% more than state schools. The school says since we didn’t file the FAFSA we will pay full price. We didn’t file because our guidance counselor/CPA/Financial Advisor/ work buddy/neighbor told us we make too much money to qualify so why bother. Reality: Make sure the advice you take is coming from someone who specializes in college planning. Everyone should file the FAFSA, no matter what their income. The FAFSA is the gateway to all Financial Aid, both Need and Merit Aid. My star athlete (soccer/lacrosse/baseball/football/track, etc.) didn’t receive any athletic scholarships!
Reality: Athletic scholarships are highly misunderstood. Most athletic scholarships are shared amongst many and nowhere near your expectations. I have a 529 plan. Isn’t that supposed to cover everything?
Reality: Many parents confuse 529 plans and the state prepaid tuition plan. The prepaid tuition plan ONLY covers tuition and mandatory fees at a state school. Room, board, books, transportation and other fees are not covered. Plus, if a 529 plan loses 20% in stock market volatility, it can be very underfunded. Unfortunately, I find this very common.
The ultimate heart breaker: Luanne, we have a junior and sophomore in college. We have had a job loss/medical emergency/ lost money in the market/ death of a parent or some unprepared for life event. We have continued to overfund our retirement, pay extra to our mortgage, used up our savings and have run out of resources. How can we tell our children they have to drop out?
Reality: Too often I find these parents turned down the student Stafford Subsidized loans that carry a 0% interest rate with no payments while the kids are in school because “We didn’t want our children to have college debt” The mortgage lender won’t let them access the extra equity in their mortgage because now they can’t qualify (to get their own money). They can’t/shouldn’t borrow from the 401K. They have given all of their extra money, and control, to bankers who can say NO! Life happens! Plan for the worst, look at the reality of your finances and plan strategically. When money is tight, 2 years at Community College can save many families $40,000 or more per student on a 4 year degree. The most expensive part about college? Starting and not being able to finish! There are plenty of other situations I have encountered, especially during this time of the year when college expenses hit home, literally. Be sure to follow the advice of a person who specializes in college planning and you can avoid many of these pitfalls in your childrens’ educations.
It’s Never Too Early Or Too Late To Start Planning! 703-928-9036 educate. empower. inspire. inform.
May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
29
Spring Flowers Create A Beautiful Decor For Your Home By Janice Lachman
S
pring is my favorite season. It is a welcoming of new growth; a gentle breeze shedding the harshness of winter and heralding the arrival of sunshine and beauty. What better way to celebrate this season than to invite spring flowers into your home?
There are many ways to achieve this: * Select A Beautiful Painting My favorite art gallery is Merritt Gallery in Chevy Chase, Maryland. We have had a long association together and I have successfully accessorized my client’s homes with their artwork. I adore this pastel on canvas, titled “Tulip VI” by artist Alice Pritchard. It makes a wonderful statement with its fresh yellows, greens and orange. The large scale is fantastic! * Select A Beautiful Designer Fabric New drapery treatment or new upholstery is a perfect venue to show off Spring flowers.
flowers will find a perfect showcase as part of your window treatments. They may appear in realistic or abstract form as long as they provide you with a feeling of happiness and new beginnings.
So… Please Take My Advice: “Spring” for Spring Flowers!!!! “I have worked with Janice Lachman for many years on projects in my Northern Virginia home and my lakehouse in Upstate NY. Janice has done furniture, window coverings, area rugs and wall colors in two different living rooms, family rooms, bathrooms and our bedrooms. We have worked together over so many projects and for many years. Janice is always a pleasure to work with and operates a very professional business. She always goes the extra mile to complete the job and over the years has become more than my Interior Designer but a true friend. We recommend her work and highly recommend her.” - Kathy H., Northern Virginia resident
Work with different textures and different ground fabrics. One of my favorite new fabrics is “Oriental Poppy” from Colefax and Fowler. This elegant embroidery is available on silk or linen. I also love “Manoir” from Manuel Canovas, a new printed cotton. I feel a breath of Spring when I look at the clean colors of this design. These fabrics are available through interior designers from Cowtan And Tout in the Washington Design Center. * Select A Beautiful Vase Accessories are so important in achieving a finished look for a room. Finding and placing the perfect accessory is often more difficult than working with furniture or window treatments. The devil is in the details. Spring flowers may be incorporated through designs in porcelain or ceramic. Also from embroidered, woven or printed motifs on throw pillows and, of course beautiful blossoms from your cutting garden shown off in a fabulous vase. * Select New Furniture Seasonal change is always positive and refreshing. The simple addition of a new chair or table in a room can make quite a difference. Then embellish it with Spring flowers on upholstery fabric or a tablecloth and napkin set. * Select New Window Treatments When I think of window treatments, I think of them as “the eyes to your world”. They are the embodiment of your persona and a very important part of your decor.Whether your taste is traditional or contemporary, Spring
Alice Pritchard’s TULIP VI ALICE PRITCHARD
TULIPand VI Spiritual Awakening” “Spring...Rebirth, Regeneration Pastel on Canvas, 28 X 28; 35.25 X 35.25
Janice Lachman 540.349.5711 www.lachmaninteriordesign.com039114 Janice Lachman spent her childhood in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. She attended both Brookside School and Kingwood School on the Cranbrook campus, where the arts were heavily stressed. ACHIEVEMENTS: * National Scholastic Gold Medal for a handwoven rya rug * Graduate of Syracuse University/ BFA Textile Design * Fulbright Hays Research Grant to Sri Lanka/ Textile Design After a successful career in New York City in the decorator fabric industry, Janice relocated to Virginia in 1992 and opened her residential interiors company, Lachman Interior Design. Her design philosophy has always encompassed the ability to elevate a client’s home to a high level of taste and sophistication, while at the same time being sensitive to their needs and desires. Many of her clients return again and again for large and small jobs as the working relationship formed in the beginning feels like the right kind of “family”. She feels very satisfied not only to be proud of her work but also to see the joy on client’s faces at the completion of a project.
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May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
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7 Tips for Creating Inspiring Outdoor Spaces By Eileen Isola, President, PVL Design Associates
W
ith the arrival of warm weather (finally!), we are turning our attention to outdoor spaces both at work and home. Whether we have a postage-stamp size yard or a large, outdoor space adjacent to our offices, our outdoor environment is an important element of personal and corporate wellness. An outdoor space that inspires, rejuvenates and works the way you envision is achieved only through good design and planning. Whether at home or the office, we all love beautiful hardscapes, the lushness of landscaping, and the magic of great lighting. It all looks so easy in a magazine, doesn’t it? Well, it can be easy by working with a certified design professional. Here are just some of the design principles that certified design professionals use to achieve inspiring outdoor spaces. 1. Think Through to the End A great outdoor space is easy to achieve when you’ve decided how you want to use your space and what activities will happen outdoors. With forethought and careful planning, your designer will ensure your outdoor space meets your needs and becomes an inviting extension of your home or corporate brand. 2. Create a Focal Point Well-designed indoor spaces – such as lobbies and living rooms – typically build off of one element which gives the eye something to land on, and is supported by the rest of the furnishings and accents. For a business, a focal point is an extension of your branding. This same principle applies to outdoor spaces.
3. Establish Traffic Patterns No matter the size of your outdoor space, once the functions and activities of the space are determined, the traffic pattern is next. Your designer will show you the possibilities for how you can do this in a variety of ways, including the use of walkways, creating shifts in hardscape materials, or planting grasses, shrubs or trees to establish corners and borders. 4. Connect to the Indoors Outdoor spaces that are easily accessible to indoor rooms are the most likely to get used. Your designer will ensure your design is in harmony with the indoor environment. As importantly, your designer will work closely with the contractor to ensure the integration of the design with the existing building is well-planned and within the budget. 5. Add a Fire Source If you have a fireplace inside your house or have been to an outdoor event at a business, you know the fire source is where everybody loves to gather. It draws people together, creates the experience and is often the focal point for the space. Your designer will guide you through the placement and design of a fire source and the number of code, safety, and operational details that must be considered and incorporated into the design. 6. Include a Variety of Seating and Table Options Properly designed and space-planned chairs, stools and/ or benches create flexibility for a variety of settings and “zones,” as well as uses for different occasions, both formal and intimate. Because space is often at a premium in outdoor areas, properly selected furniture can do double-duty. Benches may have storage space underneath; tables may also be containers. 7. Don’t Forget the “Layers” It’s the “layering” of the final elements that makes your design holistic, and makes your outdoor space feel dynamic, interesting, and finished. Welldesigned and selected plant-life, sculptures, water features, pots and containers of all shapes and sizes, and art, all add color, texture, and interest.
3031 Valley Avenue • Suite 102 • Winchester, VA 22601
Eileen Isola, PMP President, PVL Design Associates www.pvldesignassociates.com eileen.isola@pvldesignassociates.com Phone: (540) 450-8702 educate. empower. inspire. inform.
Eileen is the President of PVL Design Associates, a Service Disabled Veteran Owned and Woman Owned Small Business located in Winchester, Virginia that delivers inspired, innovative, and performance-based interior architecture, interior design, and procurement solutions in all areas of commercial and residential design. She is a passionate “possibilitarian” and rabid “dot connector” with a strong results-driven, integrity-infused outlook who relishes finding solutions where seemingly none exist. Her foundational belief in dynamic, adaptive leadership is underpinned by her approach to every challenge as an ethical, practical strategist and problem solver.
May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
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Rejuvenation in the Sonoran Desert
Miraval Resort
&
Spa
BY INA SOLMS AND LINDSAY MEANS
The color palette
of the Arizona desert, ranging from subtle sages of the various cacti to the magenta of the prickly pear, instantly transports you to an exotic land, far away from the Capital Beltway. Looking across the horizon as the sun slowly rose from behind the Catalina Mountains, I was simultaneously calmed and energized by the spectrum of blues, violets and greens jutting out from the soft earth that enveloped me. As we trekked through the towering Saguaros (these treelike cacti can grow to be over 70 ft. tall!), the quiet of the surroundings reflected the feeling that until that moment, I hadn’t quite been able to put my finger on. Nestled in the Sonoran Desert, Miraval Resort & Spa is the ideal location to take a step back and reevaluate our hectic lives, the perfect place to slow down, reflect and rebalance. We had heard about Miraval from a fellow Washingtonian who is a regular at the award-winning resort and spa; she upholds an annual tradition of visiting with her sister for some quality time and rejuvenation. Despite the long day’s journey to Tucson from DC, the relaxation began immediately upon arrival at the airport. We were greeted by a friendly gentleman who welcomed us onto a Miraval shuttle, where the concerns and pressures of everyday life were already beginning to melt away.
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Three luxurious swimming pools, each with incredible views of the mountains and accompanying hot tubs, dot the property.
Miraval has a challenge course equipped with ten high ropes — and, for the more faint of heart, seven low ropes.
May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
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Let Wyatt Be Your Guide
Yoga and meditation courses tailored to all levels are offered throughout the day in the Agave center.
The resort encompasses 400 acres of serene desert, featuring over 100 casita-style accommodations, while still maintaining an intimate setting. The suites are decorated with a western touch, in burnt siennas and deep purples, and feature some of the most comfortable beds I have ever had the pleasure of falling asleep in. The scrupulously-made beds with bright white linens did not give away the utter coziness of the mattress and plush duvets; upon entering our room after arrival, I proceeded to jump into my bed and was immediately welcomed by the cloud-like duvet. The next day, refreshed and ready for a day of mindful activity, I began with a walk around the property. Three luxurious swimming pools, each with incredible views of the mountains and accompanying hot tubs, dot the property. For the more active and adventurous, Miraval has a challenge course equipped with ten high ropes — and, for the more faint of heart, seven low ropes. Yoga and meditation courses tailored to all levels are offered throughout the day in the Agave center. And if you are craving heart-healthy activity, cardio and strength classes, ranging from spinning to cardio drumming to aqua power barre, are available and led by high-energy instructors. Miraval also offers intimate seminar sessions on topics related to healing and mindfulness; in April and August of this year, two of Miraval’s most popular practitioners will be offering a multi-day life-altering workshop entitled “Awakening the Divine Self”. Also available in March will be the Spring Hiking Week, an adventure and exploration of the region’s best trails. In addition to the wide range of activities designed to satisfy the needs of their guests, another key ingredient of the Miraval experience are the freshly-prepared, savory meals offered throughout the day at the Cactus Flower Restaurant. Having participated in a cooking class with the resort’s (continued next page)
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May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
One of the activities not to miss is Wyatt Webb’s “It’s not about the Horse”. As I approached the meeting point, I spotted an elderly gentleman decked out in full cowboy attire with a proper Arizona cowboy hat and a pair of tan leather boots. On his pinky finger glittered an impressive chunk of gold, dotted with diamonds in the shape of a horseshoe. Initially, I could not believe that this was the world-renowned therapist — though within the next two hours, he would help me find a new perspective on several issues, including outward appearances. After loading up into a small van and being transported to a nearby ranch by Mr. Webb himself, about ten other participants and I were asked to take a seat on the benches encircling a small horse pen. Wyatt emerged from the stable, leading a single horse towards us, and I wondered what a dozen people would be doing with just one horse – then the stage-like quality of the pen started to dawn on me, and the wheels in my mind starting churning as I considered the title of the exercise. Wyatt plopped himself down on a stool inside of the pen, facing us. In a steady, measured tone he gave us the overview of his philosophy, outlining why people seem to be so unhappy. He joked that he has been in therapy for 32 years and been practicing as a therapist for 31 of them. “We suffer from a lot of bullsh*t,” he affirmed quite early on (according to the horse-guru, that is actually a diagnostic term.) He went on to explain that we are born free from anxiety, and with only two fears: the fear of falling and of loud noises. Though, unlike animals who manage to maintain this lightness, we learn and are taught from a very young age to become afraid of a countless number of things— from rejection, to being ourselves, fear of the unknown, loss, (you get my gist). “Your body is your best friend, it never told you a lie—your brain talks sh*t about you all day long– to you!” In his group activity, participants are challenged to get in touch with what they are thinking and feeling at present — and then stand in front of the group of total strangers and share the inevitablyintimate revelations that result from these reflections. The logic behind the exercise posits that animals are always able to detect whether one is genuine, and a horse refuses to cooperate with those who are not being honest with themselves and others. After witnessing the first participants divulge – what seemed to me—extremely private information about themselves and even shed a few tears, my heart began to race. What had I gotten myself into? Wyatt was in the process of working with one young husband who seemed to have control issues, and was not exactly progressing in the activity, when he pointed at me. My stomach dropped as I pushed myself out of my seat, and shakily made my way around the fence and into the pen. I had resolved to get it all out there in the open, so as not to stand squirming under his scrutiny for too long. So, when he asked his standard “What are you thinking, what are you feeling?”, I blurted out that I was extremely intimidated… “by you”, I added hastily as we locked eyes. He continued to poke around, challenging me to explore these emotions, and asked me to complete the task with the horse. When I successfully completed the task on the first try, I was met with a feeling of relief—until I turned around to see Webb’s furrowed brow. He caught me completely off guard with the question: “Do you ever celebrate your successes?”—as it turned out, I wasn’t off the hook yet. I’ll leave the rest up to the reader’s imagination, but can report with confidence that participating in Webb’s session was one of the most thrilling and eye-opening activities that I have ever experienced. If you are ready to get honest with yourself and others, or even if you aren’t exactly ready, you will be surprised by the revelations that are uncovered with Wyatt as your guide.
educate. empower. inspire. inform.
head chef, I can confidently affirm that Miraval’s kitchen cooks with locally-sourced ingredients. And while the kitchen focuses on healthful ingredients, satisfying sweets are not hard to find. A variety of wines and desert-inspired cocktails are available, and the chocolate cake with cinnamon topping is simply divine — a perfect balance of indulgent sweet with the airy, spicy bite of cassia-derived frosting. Throughout the day the Palm Court smoothie bar and café is open, where one can leisurely stop by between activities to order a freshly brewed latte, a silky berry shake or an energizing green shake free-of-charge. Although it may seem trivial, Miraval’s “no-tip” policy is another treat, freeing one from the necessity of carrying around cash and vigilantly rewarding good service. The staff at Miraval provides first-class service because they are committed, and the standards at the resort are high—not because they expect to earn more for courtesy and attention to the guests. The highlight of the property is, without question, Miraval’s Life in Balance spa.
Designed by New-York based Clodagh Design and built in 2012 the award-winning spa gives guests the feeling of being intimately connected with nature, while at the same time, providing amenities of the highest quality. I am honestly not sure which was more pleasurable, the invigorating hamam treatment, featuring scrubs of coffee, sugar and almonds and a velvety jasmine-rose clay, or simply lounging in the coziest spa quiet room imaginable. After trading in my clothes for a soft white robe, I took a cue from the other guests and curled up on one of several plush chaise lounges, swaddled myself up in a super-soft blanket, and allowed my mind to clear. The ultramodern, suspended fireplace warmed the room from behind as I paged through one of the magazines lying on the side table. Directly ahead, my gaze was met with impressive palm trees framing the floorto-ceiling glass wall from the outside. From my perch on the lounge, I watched the sun set gently on the Catalina Mountains—the serenity of the desert, again surrounding me, encasing me in warmth and security.
Miraval’s “no-tip” policy is another treat, freeing one from the necessity of carrying around cash and vigilantly rewarding good service.
The award-winning spa gives guests the feeling of being intimately connected with nature, while at the same time, providing amenities of the highest quality.
A Typical Day at
Miraval
7:00 – 9:00 Miraval Outback Hike: Meander
through the Sonoran in Miraval’s backyard while learning about local flora and fauna. Don’t forget to pick up a breakfast smoothie at the Palm Court on your way out!
10:00- 10:45 Mindful Energy Movement: Unite
your body, spirit and mind in the Agave Center with this gentle and invigorating practice led by expert yoga practitioners.
12:00 -12:45 Lunch at the Cactus Flower Restaurant: Sample a variety of
healthy, but hearty, foods from the kitchen’s smorgasbord of freshlyprepared lunch items or order an entrée from the lunch menu.
1:00 – 3:30 It’s Not About the Horse: Get
in touch with your feelings and thoughts—you might be pleasantly surprised what you discover. Led by author and therapist Wyatt Webb.
4:30 – 5:45 Hammam Ritual: Head over to the
Life and Balance Spa for a vigorous exfoliation with scrubs of coffee, crushed sugar and almonds, followed by a soothing jasmine-rose clay. Insider’s tip: Be sure to leave plenty of time before and after treatment to unwind in the quiet room and enjoy the hot tub and outside relaxation area adjacent to the locker room.
While the kitchen focuses on healthful ingredients, satisfying sweets are not hard to find. A variety of wines and desertinspired cocktails are available
educate. empower. inspire. inform.
7:30 – 8:30 Dinner at the Cactus Flower Restaurant: Arrive a little early to sip
on a glass of wine at the bar and whet your appetite, then enjoy a three-course meal with new friends you met during the day’s activities. Don’t forget dessert!
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13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do By Amy Morin
M
entally strong people have healthy habits. They manage their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in ways that set them up for success in life. Check out these things that mentally strong people don’t do so that you too can become more mentally strong.
1. They Don’t Waste Time Feeling Sorry for Themselves
Mentally strong people don’t sit around feeling sorry about their circumstances or how others have treated them. Instead, they take responsibility for their role in life and understand that life isn’t always easy or fair.
2. They Don’t Give Away Their Power
They don’t allow others to control them, and they don’t give someone else power over them. They don’t say things like, “My boss makes me feel bad,” because they understand that they are in control over their own emotions and they have a choice in how they respond.
3. They Don’t Shy Away from Change
Mentally strong people don’t try to avoid change. Instead, they welcome positive change and are willing to be flexible. They understand that change is inevitable and believe in their abilities to adapt.
4. They Don’t Waste Energy On Things They Can’t Control
You won’t hear a mentally strong person complaining over lost luggage or traffic jams. Instead, they focus on what they can control in their lives. They recognize that sometimes, the only thing they can control is their attitude.
5. They Don’t Worry About Pleasing Everyone
Mentally strong people recognize that they don’t need to please everyone all the time. They’re not afraid to say no or speak up when necessary. They strive to be kind and fair, but can handle other people being upset if they didn’t make them happy.
6. They Don’t Fear Taking Calculated Risks
They don’t take reckless or foolish risks, but don’t mind taking calculated risks. Mentally strong people spend time weighing the risks and benefits before making a big decision, and they’re fully informed of the potential downsides before they take action.
7. They Don’t Dwell On The Past
Mentally strong people don’t waste time dwelling on the past and wishing things could be different. They acknowledge their past and can say what they’ve learned from it. However, they don’t constantly relive bad experiences or fantasize about the glory days. Instead, they live for the present and plan for the future.
8. They Don’t Make The Same Mistakes Over And Over
Mentally strong people accept responsibility for their behavior and learn from their past mistakes. As a result, they don’t keep repeating those mistakes over and over. Instead, they move on and make better decisions in the future.
9. They Don’t Resent Other People’s Success
Mentally strong people can appreciate and celebrate other people’s success in life. They don’t grow jealous or feel cheated when others surpass them. Instead, they recognize that success comes with hard work, and they are willing to work hard for their own chance at success.
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May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
10. They Don’t Give Up After The First Failure
Mentally strong people don’t view failure as a reason to give up. Instead, they use failure as an opportunity to grow and improve. They are willing to keep trying until they get it right.
11. They Don’t Fear Alone Time
Mentally strong people can tolerate being alone and they don’t fear silence. They aren’t afraid to be alone with their thoughts and they can use downtime to be productive. They enjoy their own company and aren’t dependent on others for companionship and entertainment all the time but instead can be happy alone.
12. They Don’t Feel The World Owes Them Anything
Mentally strong people don’t feel entitled to things in life. They weren’t born with a mentality that others would take care of them or that the world must give them something. Instead, they look for opportunities based on their own merits.
13. They Don’t Expect Immediate Results
Whether they are working on improving their health or getting a new business off the ground, mentally strong people don’t expect immediate results. Instead, they apply their skills and time to the best of their ability and understand that real change takes time.
For more articles on various categories visit www.lifehack.org
About Amy Morin
Amy Morin is a psychotherapist, psychology instructor, and speaker. Her book 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do is on sale now. She’s frequently quoted in national media outlets. She also writes for Forbes and About.com. For more visit AmyMorinLCSW.com
About Lifehack
Lifehack is your source for tips to help improve all aspects of your life. We are widely recognized as one of the premier productivity and lifestyle blogs on the web. This site is dedicated to lifehacks, which is a phrase that describes any advice, resource, tip or trick that will help you get things done more efficiently and effectively. This blog has been endorsed by many major newspapers, magazines and online publications, and is frequently updated with articles by a team of contributors that just want to make your life as friction-free as possible. educate. empower. inspire. inform.
Top Tactics That Solopreneurs Know... And Do! By Kim Lysik Di Santi, CPBA, CPVA, Founder & Executive Coach, Total Strategy
A
s a Small Business Coach, I work with a large number of Solopreneurs. Many of my clients are women. Let’s look at the case of female Solopreneurs and the facts.
Kim Lysik Di Santi, CPBA, CPVA is Founder and Executive Coach of Total Strategy as well as the mother of a 10-year old son. She gladly offers a complimentary phone Coaching Session to investigate what difference working with a Business Coach can make in your business. A recent accomplishment is that she was named to the Class of 2015 Influential Women of Virginia by Virginia Lawyer’s Weekly. She can be reached at 703.834.7597 or kim@total-strategy.net.
FACT: In a study by the SBA, Women owned 6.5 million or 28.2% of non-farm US Firms. More than 14% of these women-owned firms were employers, with 7.1 million workers. INTERPRETATION: Therefore, this means that 86% of women owned firms have no employees, or are Solopreneurs. FACT: Almost 80% of women owned firms had receipts totaling less than $50,000. Further, total receipts for firms in this under $50,000 group constituted about 6% of total women-owned business receipts. INTERPRETATION: 80% of us make up only 6% of the revenue. Banded together, small woman-owned companies do make an impact. As each individual company grows and increases, we can make an even bigger impact. ...Now for the tactics. What do Successful Solopreneurs Know and Do? Here are Eight Top Tactics Write your Business Plan. Whether it’s MBA-style-needed-for-financing or something simple, get your ideas out of your head and down on paper. Don’t wait for the perfect format. Do it. Set this as an objective along with a plan to complete it.
1.
2. Write your Marketing Plan.
How will you decide where to invest your marketing resources without a written plan? Again, get your ideas out of your head and down on paper. Remember that your time is your most valuable resource; carefully consider and then decide where to invest your marketing time.
3. Write your budget, both
revenue and expenses. It’s not enough to take in money and then decide how to spend it or to spend it and then figure out how to make it. Use your budget as your projection tool for income and expenses. Budgeting is a skill that you can learn!
4.
Emphasize Profit. Many businesses focus just on what they bring in. That’s the revenue side. Remember--If you have lots of revenue and even greater expenses, you do not have a business. Profit is the defining factor.
5. Establish, maintain and leverage key
business relationships for mutual gain. Business relationships are key for your business success. None of us can succeed alone. Decide who you can help and who can help you. Work to help each other to succeed. educate. empower. inspire. inform.
6. Analyze your referral sources.
Everyone agrees that word-of-mouth is the best form of advertising. Where is your business coming from? Are some referral sources stronger than others? What are you doing to foster those relationships? Make a plan. Execute it and watch your business grow.
7.
Have a written vision for your product and business. When you know where you’re headed you have a better chance of getting there. Clearly understand what you offer and who your ideal clients are. Be able to articulate that in a way that attracts your target audience.
8. Focus.
Most Solopreneurs, who are Entrepreneurs at heart, are very creative people. They have great ideas. They move from one idea to the next. Focus will ensure that you follow through and complete those great ideas and bring them to fruition. In this article, we’ve taken a peek at the tremendous potential that exists for Solopreneur Women as well as looked at specific tactics to pursue that. Now it’s up to you. Do you want to grow your business? How much do you want to grow your business? What actions are you willing to take to make that happen?
I’d like to end with a quote from Fashion Designer Tory Burch:
“Think of negativity as noise and always believe in what you are doing.” May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
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me
What lies between hunger and hope is me. GenerosityFeeds.org 38
May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
educate. empower. inspire. inform.
11 Ways to Keep Tick Away From Your Yard Loudoun County has seen the highest increase in cases of Lyme disease this year, across the state of Virginia. Protect yourself and your family from tick bites and the chance of contracting Lyme disease by following these simple property management practices: 1. Mow your lawn regularly. Ticks like to hide in tall grass and wait to latch on to a host. 2. Remove leaf debris and keep garden beds clean and dry. 3. Prune shrubs and bushes so they aren’t extending into walk areas where people or pets will brush up against them. 4. Keep ground cover to a minimum, as ticks like to hide there. 5. Avoid shady areas; ticks like the shade because they can’t tolerate heat. 6. Create a gravel or wood chip barrier around your property. These areas will be hot and dry making navigation difficult for the tick. 7. Keep pets out of wooded areas as much as possible. 8. Try to keep deer out of the yard as they are the preferred host of deer ticks. 9. Grow plants with a strong odor or essential oil such as lavender, lemon balm, or marigolds. 10. If you have a wood pile, keep it neat and in a sunny area. Remember, moist wood and shade is a tick magnet. 11. Hire a professional applicator such as Tick Ranger® to apply a natural tick repellent to your property. For more tips and tricks on how to prevent tick bites call your local Tick Ranger for an customized property consultation.
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educate. empower. inspire. inform.
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When considering the health benefits for your family, use a safer alternative.
(571) 267-7353 noticks@tickranger.com TickRanger.com © 2015 NaturaLawn of America, Inc. All rights reserved. Each office independently owned and operated. A division of NATURLAWN® Services and Products.
May/June 2015 | LOUDOUN WOMAN MAGAZINE
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