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appalachian • regional • women

NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS

5 Easy Tips to Succeed

REVEALING YOUR PEACE OF MIND:

When to Clear the Clutter

DOWNTOWN SPOTLIGHT:

Johnson City, Tennessee

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From the EDITOR

ot your sights on the New Year? Did you write down your goals for the New Year? Are they the same ones as 2015, or are you hoping to see a change? Writing down your goals is very important, but did you say them aloud? Verbally declaring your goals, your strengths, or your vision for your life’s direction is just as important as writing them. A few years ago, the Today Show demonstrated the strength and power of our words to our self. Host Meredith Vieira was instructed to hold out her arm and say aloud these words three times: “I am weak.” She did, and when the instructor pushed on her arm, it immediately appeared to be weak and folded. With the same situation, she said these words aloud three times: “I am strong.” Immediately, her arm was hard to press. She became as she told herself. You can reshape your attitude, redefine your situation and reconnect to contentment by your own words. It’s called Talk Therapy, and it’s not enough to avoid saying anything negative; you must start making positive declarations over your life. Your own words will have more impact on your future than anything anybody else says about you. For this New Year, what will you be telling yourself? Try this: “I am…”, “I do…” and “I can…” in all things. JCP is declaring positive moves in this year: we are, we do and we can! We are excited about the many projects and events we have in the planning stages and the new products we will soon roll out. We are counting on all of you—our readers, supporters, advertisers, business owners and fans to join us. Thank you for being there! As we plan and schedule for this new year, we want each of you to travel with uson our journey in 2016. Would like to share information with others? Voice Magazine for Women is looking for experts in coupon shopping, decorating, crafts, cooking, health, fashion or topics of interest to women. Submit your article for consideration. Visit our website, voicemagazineforwomen.com, for article submission guidelines, or call 423.926.9983, or email editor@voicemagazineforwomen.com. Interested in hosting a book signing? For details, call 423.926.9983. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook, and join in the fun of the giveaways and other happenings. For all you book lovers, join our book club. To request our e-newsletter offering recipes, latest happenings and updates, email office@jancarolpublishing.com. Happy New Year! Thought of the month: “Everything becomes a little different as soon as it is spoken out loud.” —Herman Hesse Verse of the month: “The good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth what is good; and the evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth what is evil; for his mouth speaks from that which fills his heart.” Luke 6:45 KJV

Janie C. Jessee, Editor

4 | January 2016 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

“every story needs a book”

voicemagazineforwomen.com • jancarolpublishing.com Serving Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia! PUBLISHER Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc PO Box 701 Johnson City, TN 37605 EDITOR Janie C Jessee, 423.502.6246 editor@voicemagazineforwomen.com office@voicemagazineforwomen.com publisher@jancarolpublishing.com JANUARY CONTRIBUTING WRITERS April Hensley Crystal Robertson Ken Heath Kelly McFadden Tresa Erickson Ronda Addy ADVERTISING SALES Jamie Bailey - Account Executive 423.384.8402 jamie@voicemagazineforwomen.com OFFICE Jordan Mallory - Office Assistant office@jancarolpublishing.com Office Phone/Fax: 423.926.9983 GRAPHICS/PRODUCTION Tara Sizemore - Senior Graphics Designer tara@voicemagazineforwomen.com graphics@jancarolpublishing.com MARKETING Tammy Robinson Smith - JCP Director of Communications communications@jancarolpublishing.com DISTRIBUTION Karen Corder Gary Davis Staff JCP Internships Available PUBLISHED BY JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC. (Volume 13, Issue 1) While every precaution has been taken to ensure accuracy of the published material, Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc. / Voice Magazine cannot be held responsible for opinions or facts provided by its authors, advertisers or agencies. All rights are reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without written permission. Agencies, Advertisers and other contributors will indemnify and hold the publisher harmless for any loss or expense resulting from claims or suits based upon contents of any advertisement, defamation, libel, right of privacy, plagiarism and/or copyright infringement. The views expressed in Voice Magazine for Women are not necessarily those of the publisher. © 2016 EDITORIAL MISSION: Voice Magazine for Women wants to provide a useful and complete reliable source of information for women and their families. We seek to celebrate women’s successes, and support their growth by defining and recognizing their needs and providing a concentration of resources for them. We want to be that “link” to all women.

find us:

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contents

January 2016 | Volume 13 | Issue 1

11 15

Congratulations to: Evelyn Hoskins Wise, VA as the winner in the December Hot Hunk Hunt!

Thanks to ALL for sending in your entry!

5 Easy Tips for your New Year’s Resolutions

National Soup Month

New Releases and Book Signings 18

16 29

Name: Address: City: State: Zip Code: Phone Number: Email:

Recipes 20

How to Spend a Day in Downtown Johnson City, TN

Oatmeal Month 21

Fruit All Year Long

Pantone Introduces Color of the Year

The December “Hot Hunk” was Liam Hemsworth on page 13.

Each month Voice will “hide” a picture of a “Hot Hunk.” If you find him, fill out this form, mail it in, and you could win LUNCH FOR 2 at a select local restaurant (up to $20 value).

Jan-Carol Publishing

Ken Heath 6

January Hot Hunk Hunt!

Cam Newton

VoiceMALE

Cut the Clutter! 6 Tips for Organizing Your Home 13

Growing a Tree from a Pinecone April Hensley 14

Ronda Addy 22

Revealing Your Peace of Mind: When to Clear the Clutter Crystal Robertson 23

Thin is In at General Shale 24

Bristol Bridal Station

Want To Refinance? Tresa Erickson 15

It Doesn’t Need Salt Ronda Addy 26

Miller’s Tire & Auto Service

Pine Ridge Health

Spiritually Speaking

Thyroid Awareness

Kelly McFadden 17

HOT HUNK LOCATION: free!

Where did I pick up my copy of Voice Magazine?

JANUARY 2016

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appalachian • regional • women

Mail this submission form to: Voice Magazine P.O. Box 701 Johnson City, TN 37605 or e-mail: hothunk@voicemagazineforwomen.com Deadline for submission is January 20, 2016. PLEASE, ONE ENTRY PER HOUSEHOLD As the selected winner, you must contact Voice Magazine for Women at 423-926-9983 within 90 days to claim and receive your prize. After 90 days, winning becomes null and void and the prize cannot be claimed.

NEW YEAR’S RESOLUT IONS

5 Easy Tips to Succeed

REVEALING YOUR PEACE OF MIND:

When to Clear the Clutter

DOWNTOWN SPOTLIGHT:

Johnson City, Tennessee

7 23 8

voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2016 | 5

Voicemail

Male

By Ken Heath

esolutions. While most everybody trots out an edited version of last December’s hit list (you remember, the ones we crowed about for a couple of weeks, then quietly forgot by Valentine’s Day), I’ve decided that I’m skipping it. I’m too set in my ways to try to fool folks into thinking what I know good and well I’ll never stick to anyway. But it’s a good time to stop and think about some of the things I ought to be doing, I suppose. As Mickey Mantle said, “If I’d known I’d lived this long, I’d taken better care of myself.” So, even with my weakness for Dip Dogs and a good bourbon once in a while (not together, mind you. I do have some standards), if I have to, here’s my pared-down list of Expected Resolutions for 2016: 1. Eat slower. I know I’m not giving up what I like. So I’m going to stop going at a plate of grub like a yellow dog at

You And Over 50,000 Other People Are Reading This— Advertise Your Business Here! Call Today for Special Advertising Rates! 423.926.9983

6 | January 2016 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

the feed trough. Maybe—just maybe—I’ll cut down a little in portion if I don’t mistake the greasy brown bag as part of the meal. Hey—mustard covered paper has calories, too, ya know! 2. Walk more. I’m terrible. I’ll circle a parking lot like a wagon full of settlers being attacked by Comanches, before I’ll settle on a space out in the boonies. I’m not as bad as those folks who see the fire lane as some sort of VIP parking, shoving their minivans right up against the front door, but it’s a slippery slope. A few extra steps might burn off that paper bag, just in case #1 fails. 3. Laugh often. There’s so much bad news shoved in our faces at every turn, I’ve almost forgotten how fun it is to let go. We’re afraid of offending somebody, or we’re offended ourselves, or we’re so scared out of our wits by constant “breaking news” that we just don’t laugh as much. I’m fixing that. Life is too short to go ‘round all bulled up, feeling like somebody has stepped on our big toe. Let’s unplug, disconnect from the web, and reconnect with family and friends over a game of Phase Ten, or Monopoly. Remember them? Add in a few Dip Dogs, and a shot or two, and just let the night go. Don’t have any board games lying around? They’re on sale now at the big box stores. Just don’t park in the fire lane.

{

Ken Heath is a Marion, VA hometown boy who expresses his passions in his writings and through music. After his ‘real job’, Ken is owner of the legendary Cliffside Roadhouse, doggie dad to two yellow labs with his wonderful wife, and a professional mobile DJ with Bow Tie Pro Music and Sound. Follow him on Facebook and on Twitter at #kenheath.

“Virginia's Most Awarded DJ Service”

(276) 759-1102 | www.kenheath.com

5 EASY TIPS

You Need to Succeed with Your New Year’s Resolutions

t the beginning of this month, maybe you, along with millions of people worldwide, decided to make a change for the better. Unfortunately, failing at New Year’s Resolutions is about as traditional as making them. As someone who has succeeded and failed with New Year’s Resolutions, here are some tips to help you get over the hump and succeed with your resolutions this year: START SMALL AND BE REALISTIC The biggest mistake you can make right out of the gate is to make your New Year’s Resolution unattainable. Be honest with yourself and make a plan of small steps you can take throughout the year to make it to your goal. For instance, if you want to lose weight and quit smoking, give yourself a few months to quit smoking before you start to hit the gym. MAKE A CHART TO TRACK YOUR PROGRESS Get a big poster board and make a bar graph with all your big goals. Add incremental steps to attain those big goals and fill in the graph as you attain those. Seriously, this may seem dumb, but visualizing your goals will help immensely. Don’t forget to celebrate each step you make, big or small. MAKE A PROS AND CONS LIST Sit down and write our what you will get out of achieving your goal and what will be difficult about it. Write down even the smallest reasons that you may think are stupid— you don’t have to show this list to anyone else. Whenever you are feeling unmotivated, look at the list to remind yourself why you are doing what you are doing.

• • • •

Stalking. Know it. Name it. STOP IT.

2/3 of stalkers pursue their victims at least once per week, many daily, using more than one method. 78% of stalkers use more than one means of approach. Weapons are used to harm or threaten victims in 1 out of 5 cases. Almost 1/3 of stalkers have stalked before.

REPLACE BAD HABITS WITH GOOD ONES Every time you feel like giving in to your old habit or craving, or quitting your progress, do something positive and healthy. Eventually, by linking situations with actions, you’ll form a new habit. This can take some time but will result in longterm results. KEEP AT IT As the old saying goes: if you fall off the horse, get back on. Don’t beat yourself up over the occasional slip. It has happened to everyone, and it will happen to you. Be ready for it, and recommit for the next 24 hours. Anyone can do something for a day. You should already be proud of yourself. In fact, go ahead and pat yourself on the back right now for wanting to improve. It may not seem like much, but it is the first step. Remember this, too: don’t get too worked up about the changes of the New Year. You can start improving yourself anytime this year. There’s no reason this should be your first and only step toward a better life.

• 1 in 8 employed stalking victims lose time from work as a result of their victimization, and more than half lose 5 days of work or more. The prevalence of anxiety, insomnia, social dysfunction, • and severe depression is much higher among stalking victims than the general population, especially if the stalking involves being followed or having one’s property destroyed. Stalking is a crime under the laws of 50 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Territories, and the Federal government. For a compilation of state, tribal, and federal laws visit www.victimsofcrime.org/src. voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2016 | 7

How to Spend a Day in

Downtown Johnson City, TN I

n the dead of winter, it can be hard to get motivated to get out from under warm blankets and cozy arm chairs. Don’t let the winter blues make you miss out on what is going on in downtown Johnson City. If you haven’t visited downtown Johnson City recently, then you may be thinking, why, there’s nothing to do there. And to that you would be wrong. In the last few years, the downtown has come alive with restaurants and shops to make spending a day downtown easy. Everything is close together too, so you won’t spend much time fighting the winter chill to get to your next stop. With road construction finishing up, why not plan a weekend trip to the Big Plum? There’s a lot to do, so we’ve put together a list of the must-visit locations.

START THE DAY RIGHT Brew Plum

Nestled inside of Nelson Fine Art gallery is Brew Plum. You should start your day with a carefully crafted cup of coffee made with locally roasted beans while sitting by the big windows overlooking Main Street.

We recommend the Nelson’s Nitro ColdBrew Coffee. The nitro tap adds a silky quality to an already smooth cup of coffee. 324 E Main St. • M–F 8-6, Sa 9–2, Su 9:30–2

SHOPPING Overmountain Outdoors

Matt Whitson of Overmountain Outdoors officially cut their ribbon last month to become the premier outdoor store in downtown Johnson City. Whitson, an ETSU graduate, has put together a curated selection of clothing, footwear, technology and accessories designed for outdoor activities. They’ve got some wool blankets from Woolrich that we love for the winter months. 142 W Market St. • T–Th 10–7, F 10–9, Sa 10–7, Su 10–5

We offer delivery for downtown businesses and free WiFi!

Atlantis

Right in the heart of downtown is Atlantis, which for 27 years now has been searching the globe for one-of-a-kind jewelry, clothing, art, books and much more. There is a little something for everyone at Atlantis, but our favorite thing for winter is their sterling silver gemstone jewelry. For the month of January, all Voice Magazine readers will get 15% off their jewelry purchase, too. 242 E Main St. • M–Sa 10–6

Nelson Fine Art Center

Either with your coffee in the morning or while your out shopping, you’ll have to stop by Nelson Fine Art Center. Dick Nelson brings in a monthly art exhibit as well as gallery and studio space for local artists. Additionally, if you have art (or a violin or a sword or sports memorabilia) and need it framed, he can take care of that too, and trust us, he knows what he’s doing since he’s completed over 20,000 custom framing jobs. 324 E Main St. • M–F 10–5, Sa 11–3

We Carry the Largest Selection of Sterling Silver Gemstone Jewelry

Mon–Sat: 10–6

324 E Main St | Inside Nelson Fine Art Center

Johnson City, TN | 423.926.2931

242 E. Main St.

Johnson City, TN | 423.926.8884

atlantisjohnsoncity.com

NELSON FINE ART CENTER ART SHOWS | ART GALLERY COFFEE SHOP | FRAMING SHOP

142 W. Market Street • Johnson City, TN • (423) 956-0446 8 | January 2016 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

324 E Main St | Johnson City, TN 423.926.2931 | www.nelsonartcenter.com

A FAIR TRADE RETAILER

Artisans’ Village

It is important to all of us at Voice Magazine that the people who make the things we consume every day are treated fairly. That’s why Artisans’ Village is such an important shop in downtown Johnson City. They’ve gathered fair trade products from Ten Thousand Villages, Sak Saum, Rainbow Tree, Thistle Farms and Equal Exchange, creating jobs, opportunity and livelihood for families across the planet. 300 E Main St., Suite 110 • M–S 10–6

Empowering People... Changing Lives Featuring hand-crafted products from Ten Thousand Villages, Sak Saum, Rainbow Tree & Equal Exchange.

Masengill’s Specialty Shop

300 E. Main St. | Johnson City, TN Across from Hands On! Regional Museum (423) 215-2019 | www.artisansvillagejc.com

Downtown Paw Company

Masengill’s Specialty Shop

Shopping in downtown Johnson City is all about shopping local. When you shop local, you’re going to get personal and expert service. Masengill’s exemplifies this type of service. You’ll find the kind of specialized products, upscale clothing for refined tastes (including bridal) that you won’t find at a big box store. 246 E Main St. • M–Sa 10–5 The Downtown Paw Company is a great place to spoil your furry family members. Autumn and Matt specialize in putting together a selection of products that are sustainable and safe for your pet. Most of their products are made in Tennessee, so you’ll be supporting local businesses even more. If it barks or meows, you’ll find something to suit your pet’s needs. 257 E Main St. •T–F 11–7, Sa 10–6, Su 12–4

Dressing Brides Since 1916

246 E Main St. Johnson City, TN (423) 926-9633

ZZ Topps

Stop in and see what they have to offer at ZZ Topps. You can shop their catalog or they can create custom orders. Whether personal, sports or business wear, signs or fundraisers, ZZ Topps can help you achieve your goals. 140 E Market St. • M–Th 8:30–5, F 8:30–4

AAA Oriental Rug, Inc.

Maybe you haven’t thought of getting a new rug recently. Well, AAA Oriental Rug’s competitive prices on machinemade and handmade rugs means you can get a new rug sooner rather than later. With over 28 years of experience, they’ll be able to help you find the rug that is right for your style, no matter what it may be. They will be opening another location at 1900 Brookside Dr. in Kingsport February 1. 113 Cherry St. • M–Sa 11–5

Robin’s on Roan

Right on the edge of downtown, Robin’s on Roan proves that Johnson City loves its local small businesses. Whether you are looking for unique pottery, woodworking or furniture, Robin’s has put together a handpicked collection of American-made, quality craftwork. 1305 N Roan St. • T–F 11–5, Sa 11–3

Custom Framing & Works of Art • Over 40 Years of Framing Experience • Artwork • Pottery • Photography • USA-Made Gifts • And More!

1305 North Roan St. Johnson City, TN

423.928.1305 www.robinsonroan.com

TREATS | TOYS | ETC. 257 E. Main Street | Johnson City, TN | 423.722.3040 www.downtownpawcompany.com

Anita Shell

anita@zztopps.com

Screen Printing, Embroidery Yard Signs and More! 140 West Market Street Johnson City, TN 37604 423.928.TOPP (8677) 423.928.3310 Fax www.zztopps.com

AAA Oriental Rug, Inc. • Handmade and Machinemade Persian, Pakistani, Indian, Chinese Wool & Chinese Silk • We sell, clean, repair, and appraise 120 Cherry St • Johnson City, TN 423-434-4311 • www.aaaorientalrug.com voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2016 | 9

Willow Tree Coffee House

GRAB A QUICK SNACK The Shamrock

If you’ve been to downtown Johnson City in the last century, then you’ve heard of The Shamrock. They’ve been open since 1929, and thrive by being the quintessential corner store. You can pick up anything from premium cigars to a Reuben here. Personally, I’ve been having their milkshakes since I was a kid, and they are the best in town. 300 W Walnut St. • M–F 7:30–8:30, Sa 8–6:30, Su 12–6

The Willow Tree is the newest music venue in town, and they are quickly making a name for themselves. From local to national acts, you’ll be able to find something you like here. If you are looking for a bite to eat, we highly recommend sitting down with Teri’s Famous Pimento Cheese Sandwich and a hot tea. 216 E Main St. • M 8–6, T–F 8–9, Sa 9:30–9, Su 9:30–3

BEAUTY Salon Allure

Salon Allure is one of the most creative full-service salons in town. Felicia Coleman has been a master stylist, and her experience shows in the quality of work she produces.

She and Jay Jay bring an artistic touch to hair styling. You’ll probably want to make an appointment ahead of time to make sure you are on the books. 238 E Main St. • 423.232.1623

Body, Health, and Mind Center

You’re finally out of the holidays, but if you need a little help relaxing, head to the Body, Health, and Mind Center. Local Janet Williams has put together an expert team of cosmetologists, nail techs and massage therapists to create a spa experience that will leave you refreshed. We recommend the In Good Hands package, which includes a massage, mani-pedi, styling, and lunch. 807 N Roan St. • 423.282.9713 Compiled By Jordan Mallory

We offer multiple services for men and women. We are comfortable with doing any type/ texture of hair.

• Terrific Food and Beverages • 16 Flavors of Hershey’s® Ice Cream • Old Fashioned Milk Shakes • Premium Cigars and Tobaccos

300 West Walnut St. Johnson City, TN

423-926-8511

• COFFEEHOUSE • WE SERVE FRESH & HOMEMADE FOOD ALL DAY • MUSIC ROOM • USED BOOKSTORE

216 East Main St. Johnson City, TN www.thewillowtreejc.com

MASSAGE, NAIL, HAIR, AND SKIN CARE Escape to the Body, Health & Mind Center for total pampering and relaxation

DAY SPA

807 North Roan Street Johnson City, TN (423) 282-9713 bodyhealthandmind.com

10 | January 2016 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Walk-Ins Welcome!

238 E Main St.

Johnson City, TN • (423) 232-1623

DOWNTOWN JOHNSON CITY

Pantone Introduces Color of the Year

antone has introduced its color of the year for 2016. The color authority responsible for making colors universally accessible to all industries, in a unified way, has long set color trends not only in home and design, but in fashion as well. For the first time, it has selected a combination of two colors: Rose Quartz and Serenity. Rose Quartz is a persuasive yet gentle tone that conveys compassion and a sense of composure. Serenity is weightless and airy, like the expanse of the blue sky above us, bringing feelings of respite and relaxation even in turbulent times. The two complementary colors (the perfect color combination for harmony) were selected to bring peace and serenity into homes during these hectic, stressful times. According to Pantone, the decision was based on emotion: “A symbolic color selection; a color snapshot of what we see taking place in our culture that serves as an expression of a mood and an attitude.” These complementary ‘beachy’ colors will be showcased from clothing styles, accessories, to hints of these colors in make-up lines and lipstick hues. Source: freshome.com

“

Joined together Rose Quartz and Serenity demonstrate an inherent balance between a warmer embracing rose tone and the cooler tranquil blue, reflecting connection and wellness as well as a soothing sense of order and peace.

”

—Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director, Pantone Color Institute®

OUR ATTIC CONSIGNMENT

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Get brandbrand-name women’s apparel everday discount prices at ever We have clothing for men, women, and children. We also have home décor, kitchen items, and electronics.

4451 N. Roan St. Suite 201 Johnson City, TN

423.915.1052

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DECORATING TREND New Year...New Look... for your Home! Come see us for a unique shopping experience.

Come see why it's the most fun place to shop in the Tri-Cities!

LET US SELL YOUR FINER DÉCO R AND HOME FURNISHING S OR COME SHOP OUR 11,000 SQ. FT. SHOWROO M!

1001 N. Eastman Rd. Kingsport,TN

423-246-HOME (4663) • Layaway Available Mon–Sat 10am–6pm decorexchangekpt@gmail.com

t’s the time of year when many paint manufacturers and color forecasters release their pick of top shades for the coming year. While these selections typically vary widely from company to company, one emerging trend for 2016 is what some would call a colorless color: white or, more specifically, shades of off-white. The leading paint and color trendsetters have released their selections of the colors of the year for 2016. Benjamin Moore and Glidden have made off-white hues their Color of the Year for 2016, while Sherwin-Williams and Behr are each showing an off-white in their 2016 color trend forecasts. It’s an important decision, because designers and stores follow their suggestions carefully. You’ll be seeing plenty of interpretations based on these colors in your favorite home design stores. Source: www.JenniferOttDesign.com

RECEIVE $400 OFF*

Select Stressless® recliners or $200 OFF any Stressless when you donate $50 to Salvation Army. *See your sales associate for complete details.

Through January 18

Johnson City Newcomers Club’s New Officers

IMPACT SOMEONE ELSE’S WORLD WHEN YOU DONATE $50 TO SALVATION ARMY.

Mauk’s of Jonesborough 101 W Main St. | Jonesborough, TN (423) 753-4648 | Order: (800) 611-MAUK www.mauks.com

12 | January 2016 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

The Johnson City Newcomers Club recently installed its slate of officers for the new year with a celebration of another successful and exciting year. Their 2015 annual fundraiser brought in almost $6,000 that will be shared between two local agencies, The 2nd Harvest Backpacks Program for Kids and the Johnson City Schools Homeless Education Program. The Backpacks program provides nutritious and kid-friendly foods to take home in backpacks over the weekends for children in need during the school year. The Homeless Education Program provides after school tutoring programs, school supplies, clothing, immunizations, transportation, and enrollment assistance to homeless or displaced children. Pictured from left to right: Mary Jane Niesen, Secretary; Barbara White, Treasurer; Claudia Langley, Vice President; Charlene Cleveland, President; and Benita Messer, Director. (Photo Contributed)

CUT THE CLUTTER! 6 TIPS FOR ORGANIZING YOUR HOME

tart the New Year with a new view. Embrace “out with the old and in with the new” when it comes to organizing.

FIND A PLACE FOR EVERY ITEM. One reason things pile up on counters, tables, and floors is that they have no “home.” Find a place for them.

PLAY CLUTTER COP. The better you are about keeping things out of your home, the less likely things will pile up inside. Always look for ways to block unneeded items before they cross your threshold.

HOLD OFF ON CONTAINER SHOPPING. Clutter victims often think the solution is to stock up on organizing products, so they head to the nearest superstore and stock up on bins and boxes. Most of the time, this is just more unnecessary stuff.

DUMP DUPLICATES. Why have two nonstick spatulas when one is enough? Why have six hairbrushes, or seventeen coffee mugs? Trash or donate your reserve items.

WEED OUT YOUR WARDROBE. Odds are your clothes closet is crammed with clothes that are rarely worn. One key to decluttering is getting rid of things, not simply rearranging them. The local Salvation Army is always taking donations for lightly worn or used clothing.

STICK TO A SCHEDULE. Some spaces, like kitchen counters, need daily de-cluttering. Others can be tackled weekly or monthly. When that time comes, be systematic. Source: www.webmd.com

Find Something New For Your Home!

In 1983, Congress passed the legislation and President Ronald Reagan signed it into law the Martin Luther King Day observance. One of the hassles of getting this enacted was the date January 15. Many said it was a holiday too close to the holidays of Christmas and New Year’s. So, to compromise, it was decided to make it on the third Monday in January. This moving of the date, helped get the holiday passed.

4451 N. ROAN ST. | SUITE 203

JOHNSON CITY, TN

423.429.1913

voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2016 | 13

Growing a Tree from a Pinecone By April Hensley

anuary is a great time to try your hand at planting a tree from a seed. After being cooped up indoors for holiday events and wet fall weather, it’s perfect to get outdoors for a walk in the brisk air. It’s cold enough to bundle up and be comfortable, but not yet wet and snowy enough to make walking treacherous. There are many treasures to see in your yard or a wooded park. Squirrels scamper through crunchy colorful leaves to stock up on fallen acorns. Birds pick at dried flower heads. On a sunny day, a few bugs venture out. In our area, there are plenty of evergreens. The beautiful towering trees have dropped their mature pinecones on the ground. Not many people know exactly how a pine tree starts. The seeds are nestled between the wooden petals of the dried pinecones. A lot of the seeds fall out before the pinecone falls, but there are usually several left. It’s fairly easy to get a tree started this way.

• Soak the seeds in water for a day. The paper-like part of the seed may make the seeds float. • Put four to five seeds in a 4-inch pot. Plant the seeds in dirt about an inch deep, or four times as deep as the size of the seed. • Set the plants in a sunny window, and do not let them dry out. The seeds should sprout within a month or two. • Keep your mini-tree safe inside until late spring, then put it somewhere safe and sunny outdoors. If more than one tree came up in your pot, now is the time to gently thin to one tree per pot. • After the tree reaches 6-inches, plant it in the ground. Keep weeds pulled away from tree, and protect it from the mower and weed eater.

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If you want to grow your own tree, follow these steps:

• Look for big evergreens that you like. At the base, gather several brown pinecones of each tree you would like to grow. • Let the pinecones dry on an open newspaper, inside, for about a week. You can also put them in a garage or outbuilding. • Tap the pinecone to get the seeds to fall out. Some have round seeds, some will be wing- shaped, but most will have a semi-transparent, paper-like coating. You can also take the pinecone apart to find seeds.

April Hensley works as an office manager and is an avid gardener, writer and greenhouse hobbyist. April loves the outdoors and is passionate about animal welfare and the environment. She can be reached at aprils1105@embarqmail.com.

Seed Swap Day is January 30, 2016 All budding gardeners out there, who enjoy growing new plants, will enjoy Seed Swap Day. It’s a day where gardeners can come together and swap the seeds from their best plants, which is great for improving the biodiversity. Why not have a seed day party with friends and neighbors?! Everyone must bring some of their own seeds to swap, so try breaking away from the usual, and swap yours with an heirloom variety instead. Everyone attending the event could bring something to share.

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Want T o Refinance? Get Your P’s And Q’s In Order By Tresa Erickson

ortgage rates are lower than ever, motivating many homeowners to refinance. If you are among them, beware. Lenders have stricter standards now that the real estate market has bottomed out, and lending requires more paperwork. Here are some tips to ensure you rise to the occasion.

Know Your Numbers!

What is your home worth? Home values have fallen big time in recent months. Don’t assume the appraisal from a few years ago is still valid. Get a new one done. Your home might not be worth what you thought, and you may even owe more on it than it is worth. If that’s the case, refinancing might not be an option unless you can bring some cash to the table. Lenders want to see equity and lots of it. What is your current mortgage rate? If it is low already, refinancing might not be in your best interest. Generally, you need a full percentage point lower to see a difference. What is your credit score? Lenders like to see scores in the mid-to high 700s. The higher your score, the lower of a risk you pose. Most look at the Equifax credit scores, so make sure you get a copy of that report.

Shop Around! Crunch the Numbers!

Once you know where you stand and whether you would qualify for a refinance, you can start shopping around for a lender. Ask friends and family for recommendations. Find out as much as you can about potential lenders and select a reputable one with years of experience. Check the interest rates as well as the closing costs. Remember, you want an interest rate at least a percentage point lower than the one you have now to make the refinance worthwhile. You also need low closing costs. The lower the closing costs, the quicker you can pay them off and start saving on your loan.

Get Your Papers Together!

Gone are the days of refinancing over the phone. Today, you must make an appointment with the lender of your choice and bring all of the necessary paperwork. This might include W2s and tax returns, bank account statements, paycheck stubs, retirement account statements and so forth. Find out beforehand what you need and gather it together. Should you qualify for a refinance, stay on top of the paperwork and check in with your lender regularly. Do whatever they ask of you, and be prepared for some bumps along the way. Diligence and patience are of the essence. Refinancing makes sense for many homeowners, especially with today’s low interest rates. Make sure you are among them and then pursue the option with gusto!

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Miller’s Tire & Auto Service

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n March of 1987, John and Diana Miller opened the doors Inessee. for business at 458 West Walnut Street in Johnson City, TenJohn is a California native and graduate of CalPoly in Ponoma, California. He is also a 25-year veteran of the aerospace industry with a master’s degree in mechanical engineering and has a passion for the automobile. Diana is a native of North Dakota with a master’s degree in education and is also a college professor who taught for 5 years at ETSU as a professor of special education. With son, Johnny Miller, IV, attending The University of Tennessee in Knoxville, John and Diana were looking for a place close to East Tennessee to settle into and call home. The opportunity for a Bridgestone/Firestone Affiliated Dealership came into play with options in both Kentucky and East Tennessee. After comparing the regions and a visit to the Johnson City area, John and Diana were so impressed with the hospitality of the local population, East Tennessee became their new home. While attending the University of Tennessee and working at the tire and automotive repair shop on the weekends, their son, Johnny, had the opportunity to compete in a national

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collegiate driving competition sponsored by Dodge. The top 80 drivers from 40 campuses across the country met in Daytona, Florida, for the championship run-off. Johnny won the event and collected the prizes and recognition. He later went on to pursue road racing with much success at the professional level with sponsorships from Automation Direct, UPS and Eaton Corporation. Today, Johnny works for Eaton Corporation. He holds a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering and a master’s degree in business. He is currently working on automation systems for vehicle assembly and is on the special advisory team with Eaton dealing with alternative power sources and future-power-grid systems for hybrid transportation. “The harder I work the luckier I get. Twenty-nine years later, with hard work and dedication to customer service, we are still here. Now located near I-26, off North Roan, at 112 Wesley Street in Johnson City, our eight man management and service team have more than 120 years combined experience in the automotive industry, plus an average of 10 years with the company. We are your Tri-Cities Bridgestone/Firestone Affiliated Dealer. With ASE Certified Technicians and Master Certified Technician on staff, we offer factory scheduled maintenance services to maintain your vehicle warranty. We service and repair most all vehicle makes and models; your alternative to dealership repair costs. The next time you have a vehicle need, give us a try. We’ll give you our best.” Just like day one, when John and Diana opened the doors with faith and on a prayer, the team at Miller’s Tire & Auto Service is dedicated to professional level results and customer satisfaction. “Thank you, to all who have trusted in us for your service, repair and tire needs over the past 29 years.”

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The Truth Versus The Lie By Kelly McFadden

“The thief comes only to steal, kill and destroy: I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10:10 NKJV

played competitive volleyball for thirteen years. I was fortunate to play not only in high school and college, but also for the National Team, and professionally, before I finally hung up my sneakers and retired. Most of the time, I was an energetic, passionate and free-spirited player. However, the year I was eighteen, I was plagued with fear during my matches. If you had seen a match, you might not have noticed. But if you were on my team, you would see that I simply froze during warm-ups. I could neither perform, nor put the ball where I needed to, during certain drills. It was humiliating. Somehow, the anxiety, fear, pressure and desire to perform well all accumulated in those moments, and I simply could not perform. All I could hear in my head was the imagined voice of my coach telling me I was weak, horrible and letting the team down. It was a lie. The truth is, God had gifted me with the ability to lead teams and play volleyball well. For every truth, though, there is a lie. Satan comes to steal our joy and keep us from believing

the truth. These lies made me believe I would never be good enough, never be as good as, or never amount to anything. They were coupled with unrealistic expectations and a voice that simply said over and over, “You’re awful. There is something wrong with you.” This happens in other areas of life as well. Instead of resting in the fact that God loves us and made us just the way He wanted to, we get caught up in the lies. The lies say we are bad people. The lies say we cannot be forgiven, that we are unlovable, that we deserve pain and if I don’t read my Bible enough, God will not be near… Here is the truth: God made each of us purposefully. He uniquely crafted us with the exact right amount of skills, talents and abilities. We are to rejoice and be glad in how the Lord makes us. He is our Father, and we are His children. He wants to give us good gifts, and He delights in us. He loves us unconditionally. Don’t let the lies of Satan gain a foothold in your life. Stand firm on the truth—God’s truth. Source: www.HomeWord.com

Find Your Voice! “Hills Are Alive” Harmonizes in 4 parts Tuesdays at 7:00 pm on the lower level of the Bristol Mall. This small, award-winning, all-ladies chorus is a proud chapter of Sweet Adelines International. Come join us for fun and fellowship. For information: 276-628-8692 or www.hillsarealive.org

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JCP NEW RELEASES orld-renowned clairvoyant Ethel E. Crites leads the reader on a spiritually awakening journey to our sister planet, the Blue Crystal Planet, located in the Third Galaxy. Intuitively, her explorations reveal an amazing world of loving, wise, and compassionate beings who are assisting humanity in awakening to the potential of who they truly are.

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“In this brilliant and insightful book, Ethel has taken the reader into planetary historical secrets not revealed until now. Ethel’s book is truly life-changing since the material focuses on how the reader can make a difference in the world. Ethel is one of the country's greatest intuits who has touched the lives of thousands who have had the privilege of receiving her incomparable spiritual love and wisdom. Read, learn and enjoy.” — John Davis, Director, Coptic Fellowship International, President, Spiritual Unity of Nations, and author of Messiah and the Second Coming and Revelation for Our Time

Border

er mystery novels Doggone Deadly e author of works of along with a volume awards for her work, k Award for Social ort Story Contest. alachian Authors angels.com or email

by Linda Hudson Hoagland

Molly Thompson is a country girl, “Ethel Crites is a gifted medium who tells it as she seesMolly it. She has been assisting people through and through. with her personal readings for over forty years. Now, Ethel is able to expand the base of people she touches through the written words in this book. I invite you to join her, as she becomes a wanderer when shares her personal journey of exploration to the Blue Crystal Planet, where you can experience what the future may look like as the Earth moves toward the fifth-dimension.” she reaches the age of 60 and keeps the roads hot from April to Ethel E. Crites December every year selling her crocheted angels. She believes the angels she designs and creates from yarn have put her under their spell. She doesn’t set out to be a do-gooder, but it seems that her life just leans that way. This book WINNER OF the Clark Cox shares Molly’s angel-influenced life Historical Fiction Award for 2015 with anyone who believes in angels and with those whose opinions “After reading the novel, one realizes that not only have they been entertained, they have been educated. The reader becomes lost in the can be changed, even if it is just a story in the sense that, through reader-friendly text, scenes begin to form in the mind’s eye due to vivid descriptions of beautiful scenery, little bitthe characters involved, and daily life.” — Ronald L. Prickett, author of The Twelve Laws of Business

is widely known as a teacher, counselor, and healer, and is an ordained minister with the Brigade of Light, has done extensive research with the Paranormal Research Project at Poseida Institute, Virginia Beach, Virginia. She has done extensive intuitive criminal investigations for missing persons and pets with various government agencies. She is currently available for lectures and private spiritual consultations. You may contact her at angelguide.ethel@yahoo.com.

THE ANGELS ARE EVERYWHERE SERIES

World-renowned clairvoyant Ethel E. Crites leads the reader on a spiritually awakening journey to our sister planet, the Blue Crystal Planet, located in the Third Galaxy. Ethel channeled this material and journeys on the various tours of the planet.

COVER DESIGN: TARA SIZEMORE

AUTHOR PHOTO: DL BRIDGES PHOTOGRAPHY JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC JANCAROLPUBLISHING.COM

CARROLL C. JONES’S MASTER OF THE EAST FORK EARNS HIGH PRAISE FROM N.C. SOCIETY OF HISTORIANS

LINDA HUDSON HOAGLAND

by Ethel E. Crites

— Deborah Laughing Heart, Rainbow Medicine Woman, Ordained Minister, Reiki Master/Teacher, and author of Grandmother Speaks

Missing Sammy

Rebel Rousers, the sequel to Master of the East Fork, is a historical fiction novel set during the American Civil War. It tells the coming-of-age tale of a youthful Rebel soldier who hails from the western North Carolina highlands. At once, it seems, the strapping lad has to bear-up under his romantic longings for the miller’s daughter, the hateful acts of an antagonist named Bugg, various personal tragedies, and the terrible trials of war. Will he survive the war? What about the girl? Best you pick-up a copy and find out.

by Linda Hudson Hoagland

CARROLL C. JONES was born and raised in the western North Carolina mountains and is directly descended from pioneering families of Haywood County, the setting for this book. He presently lives in Morristown, Tennessee with his wife Maria, but they manage to retreat to the Carolina highlands on a regular basis. Rebel Rousers is Carroll’s second novel and is a sequel to his Master of the East Fork. You can find out more about Carroll and his books on his website at carrolljones.weebly.com.

Rebel Rousers

R EBEL R OUSERS

by Carroll C. Jones

CARROLL C. JONES

Ella Hutchins discovers that she is the strong woman of Appalachian stock. She knows she is when she must overcome a tragic event in her life which takes away her reason for living. Her sons are long gone with families of their own, so she and Sammy are there for each other. When that life ends, she struggles to start a new life.

Noted western North Carolina writer Kathy Nanney Ross says in her foreword, “Carroll Jones blends unique story-telling and crafty writing with historical facts and regional lifestyles to create a superb, thought-provoking novel, Rebel Rousers. His book reminds us how the lines between joy and sorrow, good and evil, and justice and vengeance can blur. As a good historical novel should, Rebel Rousers transports us back in time and teaches us about our past without sacrificing a compelling story. Enjoy.”

R EBEL R OUSERS

ORE

LINDA HUDSON HOAGLAND

anyone who n be changed,

Onward & Upward

“You can read this book as a work of science fiction, or you can read it as the factual account of a psychic’s encounters with extraterrestrials, but what you cannot do is ignore it. In it, we are taken on a journey to distant planets, and parallel planes of existence where we learn that Great Spirit's message to our world is also a universal one. This message of love and peace is one that we greatly need to hear and heed in these turbulent times. Open your mind to the limitless possibilities that are revealed herein, and you will be touched on every level of your being.”

Through a Visionary’s Eyes... Make Your Way to the Wonders of the Blue Crystal Planet

ETHEL E. CRITES

ough. Molly and keeps the g her crocheted tes from yarn o be a do-gooder,

ONWARD & UPWARD

ine as we follow se in her life after ife takes on an an uplifting story a time.”

Onward & Upward

Journey Past Human Limitations

JOURNEY PAST HUMAN LIMITATIONS

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Fiction

Revelation Adventures in The Glade | Book 3

Adventures in The Glade | Book 3

— Glynn Young, author, Dancing Priest, A Light Shining, and Poetry at Work

The Manor

The plot thickens when the Old Ones realize evil Cousin Ronnie is by Betty Kossick plotting other ways to lay hands on The Glade. Through their spying and reconnaissance efforts, they present the evidence to Davy’s family and Sheriff Peabody. But will that evidence be enough to

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REVELATION

keep Ronnie at bay, or will the need for irrefutable proof force the Joseph wealthy Scot Old Ones to take Stuart, the greatest riska of all? marble baron, builds The Manor in 1890, in Ebyville, Georgia, to win his bride. The manse has always been Martha Jane Orlando is passionate about writing and hopes you will be just asKatherine, passionate in the Stuart Family, until about reading both The Glade Series and Adventures in who The Glade. You can visit Martha a music teacher moves to Jane at her website gladetrilogy.wix.com/theglade or at facebook.com/nantahala55. Ebyville, from New Mexico, falls in love with The Manor, and purchases a seeming dichotomy of exterior disrepair yet with beautiful flower gardens. She is unprepared, as is the entire town, for The Manor’s unfolding secrets of its 106-year old history.

Adventures in The Glade | Book 3

“Revelation may be the most action-packed entry in The Glade Series and Adventures in The Glade yet. A romance, sorrow, a rafting trip gone awry, evil cousin Ronnie up to nefarious no-good, the Old Ones watching over Davy and his family— I couldn't stop turning the next page to find out what would happen next.”

by Martha Jane Orlando

Revelation MARTHA JANE ORLANDO

COMING SOON Mountain Echoes

by Edie Hutchins Burnette

18 | January 2016 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

The plot thickens when the Old Ones realize evil Cousin Ronnie is plotting other ways to lay hands on The Glade. Through their spying and reconnaissance efforts, they present the evidence to Davy’s family and Sheri Peabody. But will that evidence be enough to keep Ronnie at bay, or will the need for irrefutable proof force the Old Ones to take the greatest risk of all?

Chucky the Chocolate Mouse Written by Katie Meade & Illustrated by Adam Mays

Ask the Book Editor Judi Light Hopson Call:

Q: I have a friend who’s been writing a book 423.743.9052 Email:

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for over five years. I’ve been working on mine for two years. I want to give birth to this baby!

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January Is National Clean Up Your Computer Month Taking the time to clean and organize your computer can potentially save you time and money by streamlining your workflow and improving the life of your investment. In observance of National Clean Up Your Computer Month, here are five simple steps to get your computer operating at its best: Run a complete backup

Before you start deleting files, it’s a good idea to back up your system as it currently exists. All computers do this differently, so check with your manufacturer on how best to perform this task. Organize your documents

Implement a logical naming and archiving system that works for you. De-clutter your virtual workspace by placing desktop files in appropriate folders. Delete what you don’t need

This will improve your machine’s performance by freeing up space on the hard drive for applications to run. There are multiple programs preinstalled on most computers for cleaning up old files, but be wary of clean-up tools you find online. Institute order online

First, make sure your bookmarks are in order by making any site additions and deletions that reflect your current browsing habits. Organize bookmarks in an intuitive way so that you can easily find sites you regularly visit. In managing online accounts and passwords, employ a password manager like Keychain for Macs, or Windows Live ID for PCs. Organize email

Delete any messages you don’t need. Establishing clearly identifiable folders—rather than leaving mail bunched together in your inbox— is also a good idea. Updating your contacts list can ensure that you have the addresses you need without the added clutter of old contacts.

Do I have to wait until it’s nearly perfect before hiring an editor? —Ingrid S., novelist, Knoxville

A: Ingrid, hiring an editor when a book is

90–95% complete is a good idea. An editor can help you spot redundancies, add needed information, and polish every sentence. It can be frustrating to do this all by yourself! Enlisting a good editor is like hiring a coach to get you across the finish line!

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AUTHORS on the ROAD

Linda Hudson Hoagland – Onward and Upward; Missing Sammy; Snooping Can Be Doggone Deadly; Snooping Can Be Devious; Snooping Can Be Contagious; Snooping Can Be Dangerous; The Best Darn Secret; and anthologies Broken Petals and Christmas Blooms Thursday, January 7, 2016, 11 am to 1:30 pm, Lost State Writers Guild Meeting, Shoney’s at Exit 5, Bristol, VA

Saturday, January 16, 2016, 9 am to 1:30 pm, Book Signing, Farm Expo 2016, Meadowview Convention Center, 1901 Meadowview Parkway, Kingsport, TN Sunday, January 17, 2016, 12 noon to 5 pm, Book Signing, Farm Expo 2016, Meadowview Convention Center, 1901 Meadowview Parkway, Kingsport, TN Victoria Fletcher – Fletcher’s Fables Saturday, January 16, 2016, 10 am to 2 pm, Book Signing, Farm Expo 2016, Meadowview Convention Center, 1901 Meadowview Parkway, Kingsport, TN

voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2016 | 19

y r a u n a J p Month

National Sou

MICHAEL RUHLMAN’S NO-STOCK FRENCH ONION SOUP Yield: 6 servings Ingredients 1 tbsp. butter 6 to 8 lbs. onions, thinly sliced Kosher salt Freshly ground black pepper 6 slices of country-style bread ⅓ Cup sherry 1 tbsp. white balsamic vinegar or white/red wine vinegar (optional) 1 tbsp. red wine (optional) ½ to ¾ lbs. Gruyère or Comté cheese, grated

Instructions 1. Use a large pot (7 to 8 quarts) that will hold all the onions. Place the pot over medium and melt the butter. Add the onions, sprinkle with 2 tsp. salt, cover and cook until the onions have heated through and started to steam. Uncover, reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally (you should be able to leave the onions alone for an hour at a stretch once they’ve released their water.) I cooked mine for about 3 hours at low to medium-low heat. Season with several grinds of pepper. 2. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 200°F. Place the bread slices in the oven and let dry completely (you can leave the slices in the oven for a few hours, as the heat is not high enough to burn them.) 3. When the onions have completely cooked down, the water has cooked off and the onions have turned amber, add 6 cups of water. Raise the heat to high and bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Add the 20 | January 2016 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

sherry. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. If the soup is too sweet, add the vinegar. If you would like a little more depth, add a splash of red wine. 4. Preheat the broiler. Portion the soup into bowls, top with bread, cover with cheese, and broil until the cheese is melted and nicely browned. Serve immediately. Source: www.alexandracooks.com

EASY THAI SHRIMP SOUP Yield: 6 servings Ingredients 1 cup uncooked basmati rice 2 tbsp. unsalted butter 1 lbs. medium shrimp, peeled and deveined Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 onion, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 tbsp. freshly grated ginger 2 tbsp. red curry paste 2 (12-ounce) cans unsweetened coconut milk 4 cups vegetable stock Juice of 1 lime 2 tbsp. chopped fresh cilantro leaves

Instructions 1. In a large saucepan of 1½ cups water, cook rice according to package instructions; set aside. 2. Melt butter in a large stockpot, or Dutch oven, over medium high heat. Add shrimp, salt and pepper, to taste. Cook, stirring occasionally, until pink, about 2-3 minutes; set aside. 3. Add garlic, onion and bell pepper to the stockpot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in ginger until fragrant, about 1 minute.

4. Whisk in curry paste until well combined, about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in coconut milk and vegetable stock, and cook, whisking constantly, until incorporated, about 1-2 minutes. 5. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer until slightly thickened, about 8-10 minutes. 6. Stir in rice, shrimp, lime juice and cilantro. Source: www.damndelicious.net

BROCCOLI & CHEDDAR BAKE Yield: 3-4 servings Ingredients 2 tbsp. butter ¼ cup flour 1 small onion, finely chopped 3 broccoli florets, chopped 3 cloves garlic, minced 2½ cups vegetable stock 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided Biscuit mix (I used Bisquick, which required I add water to the mix. Check yours for additional ingredients you may need.) Salt and pepper

Instructions 1. In a large sauce pan or pot, heat the butter over medium heat until melted. Add the onions, season with salt and pepper and cook for a couple minutes until they begin to soften. Sprinkle in the flour and stir to form a thick paste. 2. Pour in the first cup of stock and whisk until you’ve created a gravy-type consistency. Then add the broccoli, garlic, remaining stock and 1 cup of the cheese. Stir until well combined and the cheese begins to melt. If you want to use an immersion blender or food processor to puree the mix, do so at this point, or you can leave it chunky. Up to you. 3. Mix the biscuit mix according to the package directions. (I added ½ cup cheese to my mix to make cheddar biscuits.) 4. Pour the soup into a casserole pan, sprinkle on the remaining cheese, then drop the biscuit dough on top. Bake at 450°F for 15-18 minutes. Source: www.abeautifulmess.com

Oatmeal Month Understanding Your Oats Rolled Oats

These are a great middle ground. They are less processed than quick oats, thus retaining more nutrients. They are presteamed to make for faster cooking, but a bit thicker and larger flakes and thus take a little longer than quick oats, but they are a bit thicker, heartier and nicer tasting. This is what I have made the most often, and I find these only need to be brought to a med-high heat, then turned lower to simmer with the lid on. They will be ready in about 5 minutes. Water ratio is 1 (or 1½) cups of water to 1 cup of oats. Some prefer an even softer oatmeal, and if that’s you, use more like a 2:1 ratio of water instead.

Steel-Cut Oats

These are oat groats (whole oats) that have been chopped into pieces, but not cooked or rolled. They are the most nutritious, as well as the most flavorful and the heartiest. They have a great chewy texture. They take the longest to cook, but are worth the wait. They are also known as Irish Oats.

Same procedure, but I would give these more like 10 minutes or more to simmer. Use 2 cups of water to 1 cup of oats. Again, for those who prefer an even softer oatmeal, up the water ratio to more like 3:1.

Basic Breakfast Recipe

Our favorite way to eat oatmeal is with raw milk or cream, a drizzle of honey (or even maple syrup as a splurge), raisins, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. It’s also good with other fruit, such as berries. Source: www.keeperofthehome.org

Health Benefits of Oatmeal

1. Boosts Energy Oatmeal is a carbohydrate and protein-rich source that provides calories and energy. Foods like oatmeal tend to cause a slow rise in glycemic levels, which is ideal for increasing fat-burning during exercise. 2. Protects Skin Oatmeal is able to normalize the skin’s pH, which can relieve itchy and uncomfortable skin, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. This is why oatmeal baths are recommended for itchy skin relief because they are able to soften and moisturize the skin, helping to protect it from potential irritants.

3. Supports Weight Loss Oatmeal is an appetite suppressor that can be an integral part to any weight loss diet. Cholecystokinin, a hunger-fighting hormone, is increased with the oatmeal compound beta-glucan. This keeps hunger at bay, which can help you stay slim. 4. Prevents Diabetes Oatmeal’s low glycemic index is beneficial when it comes to reducing the risk of diabetes. This helps the stomach empty its contents slowly, which affects blood sugar levels and has a positive effect on our insulin sensitivity. 5. Boosts Heart Health Foods rich in whole oat sources of soluble fiber have been linked to good heart health. Oatmeal contains both calcium and potassium, which are known to reduce blood pressure numbers. 6. Reduces Colon Cancer A high-fiber diet can be beneficial when it comes to reducing the risk of colorectal cancer. Its soluble fiber and insoluble fiber can help speed up the passage of food and waste. Source: www.medicaldaily.com

Wishing everyone a Happy New Year! We look forward to serving all of you in 2016!

450 Commerce Drive (I-81 Exit 17) Near Hampton Inn Abingdon, VA (276) 628-4797 www.alfrescolifestyles.com Mon–Fri 10am–5pm, Sat 10am–2pm

voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2016 | 21

Fruit All Year Long By Ronda Addy

now on the ground means fruit isn’t in season, or does it? Thanks to exotic fruit imports, that has changed. While the northern hemisphere is experiencing winter, countries down south are experiencing summer. They can grow all sorts of fruit, which can be imported to the United States. Here is a brief description of some of those exotic winter fruits.

THE FEIJOA (OR PINEAPPLE GUAVA) is native to South America but is now grown commercially in California and New Zealand. Egg shaped, it has thin lime-green skin, cream-colored flesh and a jelly-like center. It tastes like a combination of pineapple, strawberry and guava. March through June is the prime time for imported feijoas, and the fall is when the domestic ones get to market. A ripe feijoa has delicate skin and can bruise easily. The best pieces are fragrant and give slightly to gentle pressure. A feijoa can be ripened by storing it in a paper bag at room temperature (adding an apple will cause to it ripen faster.) It isn’t necessary to refrigerate a ripe feijoa. When ripe, a feijoa will last three to five days, and if peeled and made into a puree, it can be frozen. Most of the time, feijoa jelly is eaten raw. When the fruit is ripe, the jelly will be clear. The jelly may be eaten by peeling the fruit, or cutting it in half and scooping out the flesh.

ripens, and then it can be stored in the refrigerator for a week. If left out, a ripe guava will spoil within a couple of days. All parts of the guava are edible, even the rind and seeds, as long the fruit is ripe. Canned guava is available year-round all over the country.

THE KIWANO MELON (OR AFRICAN HORNED MELON) is native to

South and Central Africa and is now imported from New Zealand and is starting to be grown in California. Ovalshaped, with horns on its peel, it has bright orange and yellow skin and yellow-green pulp that tastes like a combination of lime, cucumber and banana. The best pieces are bright orange in color with the horns intact and no bruises and spots. An unripe melon can be kept at room temperature for up to two weeks; a ripened one can be kept for three to four days. There is no way to remove the skin from the melon. It must be cut to remove the fruit pulp. The pulp can be eaten on its own, or used in salads, or as a topping. RED BANANAS are popular in Central America and are imported from Costa Rica. Smaller than common yellow bananas, they have deep red or purple peel and creamy white to pink flesh, and taste much like regular bananas with a hint of raspberry. The best pieces have peel that is free of cracks and bruises. Red bananas will ripen in a couple of days when left at room temperature and become deep purple in color. They should never be stored in the refrigerator.

THE GUAVA (OR BANGKOK APPLE, OR GUAYABA) is native to South THE TAMARILLO (OR TREE TOMATO) America and is grown commercially in Hawaii, Florida and California. Ranging in size from a small egg to a medium apple, it has thin yellow, red, purple, or almost black skin, and pale yellow to bright red flesh. It tastes sweet and has a slightly tart aftertaste. The best pieces are unblemished and give to gentle pressure. An unripe, green guava can be stored at room temperature until it

is native to South America and imported from New Zealand. Egg-shaped with a green stem and pointed ends, the three-layered fruit has tough, bitter red, purple, golden yellow or amber skin, slightly firm, apricot-colored outer flesh filled with dark edible seeds, and tart, tangy flesh. The best pieces are heavy, unblemished, firm and fragrant and yield slightly to gentle pressure. A tamarillo can be ripened at room temperature and stored in the refrigerator, where it can be kept up to 10 days if wrapped in plastic. A tamarillo can be Prices starting frozen if peeled and wrapped individfrom $5.95 ually. Before eating one, the skin must • Pizzas be removed by blanching it in boiling • Calzones water for two or three minutes. • Greek & Italian Thanks to modern technology, fruit Dine In • Carry Out • Catering • Desserts and other goods can be transported from country to country, allowing 3732 Bristol Hwy. Johnson City, TN everyone to enjoy them throughout Open 7 days 10% OFF the year. Fruit no longer has to be a 11 am – 9:30 pm Senior Citizens Discount summer treat.

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22 | January 2016 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Revealing Your Peace of Mind: When to Clear the Clutter Unused Goods

By Crystal Robertson

Stacks of unopened or unused items can signal “just in case” thinking, and a lack of trust in the future. They can also signal an aspiration to do or be something you’re not. While there’s nothing wrong with having aspirations, you need to figure out if your possessions orient you toward having or being. The ‘havings’ want to acquire and possess. For ‘beings,’ it’s all about experience. The beings are eager to let go of things that aren’t being enjoyed and used; the opposite is true for the havings. Giving away unused belongings can help you rewrite the story of who you are. Be comfortable with a little empty space to make room for new things, experiences, and even friendships.

hat is your space saying about you—and what is it doing to your energy, mood, and outlook on life? Excess clutter and unwanted stuff in our lives, including mental and emotional baggage, is stagnant energy that can take a toll on you both personally and professionally. Often we hold onto resentment and deny forgiveness, then wonder why it’s so challenging to feel grateful and truly appreciate the things we have that matter. Whether it’s internal or external, clutter can leave you feeling tired and overwhelmed, running around in constant “I Love Lucy” moments. And not in a good way. Different kinds of clutter signify different emotional messages. Here are a few of the most common.

Other People’s Stuff Whether it’s belongings stored for a friend, or the stuff your kids left behind, storing other people’s things can be a signal that you need to be more assertive about your space. Your home shapes your own energy, so when people store things in your home, those people are taking up your energy. Set time limits for storing other people’s belongings, if you’re going to store them at all, and be firm. The belongings of deceased loved ones also fall into this category. After losing someone, you may not want to dispense with all of their things, but hanging on to an entire boxed up collection of knick knacks doesn’t honor a loved one’s memory as effectively as choosing a few special items to actively enjoy or display.

Past Reminders You might have a tendency to blame the past for your current situation, or to think your best days are behind you. Try letting go of any object—however lovely or sentimental—if looking at it disturbs you or brings you down. Whether you’re holding on to an ex’s painting or jeans that will never fit, releasing unhelpful reminders of the past frees you to move forward. You don’t have to burn down the house you shared with your ex to create a sense of closure. Repaint. Get new sheets for the bed. Or, burn candles, sage, or incense to reclaim the space as your own.

Incomplete Projects Half-completed paintings and half-finished remodels can suggest an unsustainable perfectionism, and a constant reminder of failure. Take stock of all the projects currently “in progress.” If something sits untouched for six months with no major life events distracting you, it’s time for review. Many charities are eager to pick up unused paint and scrap wood from aborted building projects, and Etsy.com is full of crafters happy to take half-finished projects off your hands. The process of discarding nostalgic stuff can be challenging, but be compassionate with yourself. When you come to something that’s painful, sit with it. Don’t judge it or get mad at yourself about it. Your house should be a place where you enjoy your life, your family, your friends, your spiritual practice, whatever you’re into. If you’re not into the stuff that’s in your house, then it’s got to go. Tell the story of who you are.

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Crystal Robertson works in community development at the Tennessee Department of Health. She received her Bachelor’s degree from ETSU in Family and Consumer Sciences. After six years of working with families and youth as an Extension Agent, she began a new path in Public Health. She is a Master’s candidate at ETSU College of Public Health and an aspiring “disease detective.” When Ms. Robertson is not studying, she spends time making jewelry, hiking, and trying to visit every National Park in the U.S. You can reach her at crystalr501@gmail.com. voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2016 | 23

THIN IS IN at General Shale!

hy would you decorate your walls with bricks? One simple reason—they look gorgeous! Having one or more types of brick stones can give your room distinction and a royal appearance. It’s amazing how a brick interior can transform an entire room. Today’s stone interior walls create warmth with different shapes, sizes and colors. With a wide range of decorative interior brick, the selection of powerful colors and designs make it easy to complete your design aspiration for any room. Brick tiles are successfully used in hallways, kitchens, living rooms and bathrooms. Stone interior brings many benefits to your interior design and creates a peaceful atmosphere. And what could be easier than General Shale’s Old Brick Originals™ Thin Brick™?

General Shale’s Old Brick Originals™ Thin Brick™, the easyto-apply brick veneer, goes easily into any space. Made from real earthen clay brick that has been cut thin, your creative side can now take the beauty of brick anywhere in your home. Because thin brick is so lightweight, you no longer need to worry about load-bearing walls or reinforced subfloors. Designers love the personality that thin brick provides. From the neat square edge design of a French quarter™ thin brick for an office, to the worn and rustic look of Peppermill™ for an English pub style, there are hundreds of design possibilities when Old Brick Originals Thin Brick™ is part of the solution. Homeowners and professionals choose General Shale Brick’s Thin Brick™ when quality and style are top priorities. Thin Bricks™ are real, kiln-fired bricks, cut thin for ease of installation and design flexibility and can change the mood of any room. Thin Brick™ does not require any special structural support. So, it’s time to say goodbye to the plain, white wall, and transform it with General Shale Brick’s Thin Brick™. For more information including an installation guide, contact General Shale. See their ad below.

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Thin Brick PEPPERMILL

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Bristol Bridal Station

he Bristol Bridal Station is a program of the YWCA Bristol that provides new, designer wedding gowns and formal wear at affordable prices, typically up to 75% off retail prices. The majority of gowns will be further reduced between $99–$399 for the “Winter Whiteout Sale” through January. The YW is fortunate to have partnered with over thirty bridal salons from locations all over the country including Miami, Philadelphia, Charleston, and Dallas to bring a rare selection of designer styles by top designers like Vera Wang, Oscar de la Renta, Monique Lhuillier, Hayley Paige, among others. The gowns gifted by partnering bridal salons are NEW and typically floor samples and overstock selections. All proceeds from Bristol Bridal Station benefit the programs of the YWCA and is truly “Couture for a Cause.” Each gown purchased helps support the free and subsidized community programs of the YWCA, including a teen pregancy support program and the area’s only childcare program

Wedding and bridesmaid dresses priced up to 75% off retail value! Open to the public Saturdays 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. and weekdays by private appointment

with fees based on household income. Tech GYRLS, an afterschool program for at-risk adolescent girls, is another program that is offered free, year-round, to families in need. Bristol Bridal Station takes pride in providing every bride a personalized shopping experience in a boutique-style salon, located inside the YWCA building at 106 State Street, Bristol, Tennessee. The salon is open to the public on Saturdays from 10 am–3 pm, with no appointment necessary. Private weekday appointments with exclusive use of the boutique and one-on-one assistance are available for a $50 donation that is credited toward any purchase. The salon is operated by Volunteer Bridal Consultants who are recruited and trained to provide enthusiastic, caring customer service when helping women find the wedding or prom dress of their dreams. For more information about the Bristol Bridal Station or YWCA Bristol, please call 423.968.9444 or email s_burleson@ ywcabristol.org.

TIME TO GET MOVING!

An enterprise of:

New Affordable Couture ywcabristol.org | 423.968.9444 s_burleson@ywcabristol.org Located inside YWCA Bristol 106 State Street | Bristol, TN 37620

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voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2016 | 25

It Doesn’t Need Salt

3. In a separate bowl, combine ½ cup water with peanut butter and mix until smooth. 4. Add mixture, chicken, remaining water, tomato and chili pepper to saucepan. Bring to a boil, then lower heat, and simmer for 15 minutes. Garnish with parsley.

By Ronda Addy

ou’ve been told you must cut back on your salt intake, or eliminate it all together, and you just assume that nothing is ever going to taste good again. That may be the case in some instances, but these recipes are so good you won’t even miss the fact that there is no salt in them.

African Peanut Soup Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 2 tbsp. olive oil 1 yellow onion, diced 2 cup water 2 tbsp. peanut butter 1 large tomato, diced 1 tsp red chili pepper (optional) Parsley, to garnish Instructions 1. Cut chicken into 1-inch pieces and brown in a saucepan of heated oil. Remove chicken and set aside. 2. Sauté onion in same oil until translucent.

Sweet Potato Squash Casserole

Yields: 6–8 servings

Ingredients 2 sweet potatoes 1 butternut squash 1 cup orange juice 1 tbsp. margarine, unsalted 2 cinnamon sticks Instructions 1. Preheat oven to 375ºF. 2. Cut sweet potatoes in half and cut squash in half vertically, then scrape out the seeds. Place them, cut side up, in a baking dish and bake uncovered until they are soft (about 1½ hours.) 3. Scoop the potato and squash out of the skins and mash them together until smooth. 4. Heat orange juice, margarine and cinnamon sticks in a small saucepan, until mixture reduces to approximately ¼ cup syrup. 5. Discard the cinnamon sticks and stir the orange syrup into the mashed vegetables.

Horseradish-Crusted Roast Beef Yields: 6–8 servings

Ingredients 2–3 lb. beef roast ½ tsp garlic powder ¼ tsp onion powder ¼ tsp salt substitute ¼ tsp sugar ¼ tsp parsley ¼ tsp pepper 2 tsp, or 2 packets no-sodium beef bouillon 1½ cup water ¼ cup horseradish sauce Instructions 1. Place roast in roasting pan or casserole dish, season with garlic and onion powder, salt substitute, sugar, parsley and pepper. 2. Add no-sodium beef bouillon to water, stir until mixed, and pour around roast. 3. Brush horseradish sauce onto top of roast and spread evenly around with the seasonings. 4. Slow-cook for three to four hours at 250ºF. Baste every half hour with the liquid in the pan. 5. To crisp up the outside of the roast, turn on the broiler for the last 10 to 15 minutes. _______________________________

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26 | January 2016 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

“Tomorrow is the first blank page of a 365-page book. Write a good one.” — Brad Paisley

Quality of L ife

Pine Ridge Care & Rehabilitation Center W

ith an increase of older adults in our country, the goal is to reduce health care costs by the means of providing wellness strategies that keep our older adults independent and safe and maintaining Quality of Life. Pine Ridge Care & Rehabilitation Center located in Elizabethton, Tennessee is a regional rehabilitation center with that goal in mind. Under the umbrella group, Signature HealthCARE, Pine Ridge Care & Rehabilitation Center is among the elite group of over 100 Signature HealthCARE (SHC) facilities. “Signature HealthCARE was named to the 2015 Modern HealthCare’s list of Best Places to work in the Healthcare,” according to Kim McDonnell, LBSW, MHA, Admissions/ Marketing Director of Pine Ridge Care & Rehabilitation Center. “This tells our residents that our staff is a team of experienced clinical professionals willing to work with them to achieve a quality of life.”

With their highly experienced team of clinical professionals, Pine Ridge Care & Rehabilitation Center provides 24-hour RN coverage and offers over 100 years of combined nursing experience. Their Medical Director has over 20 years of nursing home experience and functions as the Medical Director for the Sullivan County Regional Health Department. If you or a loved one is seeking advice or searching for a family focused rehabilitation center, contact Pine Ridge Care & Rehabilitation Center. They can guide you through the process with understanding, experience and compassion. Pine Ridge Care & Rehabilitation Center 1200 Spruce Lane Elizabethton, TN 37643 (423) 543-3202 www.pineridgecare.com

What does Quality of Life mean at Pine Ridge Care & Rehabilitation? “Our Quality of Life department plays a vital role in helping our residents maintain meaningful, active lives,” states Quality of Life Director Roberta Campbell. “A wide range of activities are planned to meet each individual resident’s personal and social interest. They enjoy outings such as Harley rides, hayrides, bowling, shopping and cookouts. In-facility activities include interactive Nintendo® Wii™ sports, musical events, bingo, Resident Council meetings and many special events celebrated with parties and get-togethers.” “In addition, we are unique in having our Hall of Fame Café®. Our Hall of Fame Café® is a moving tribute that recognizes the lifetime accomplishments of our ‘Hometown Heroes’ who have achieved greatness in their lives, be it in the military, professional, civilian or public service.” Admission into a nursing center can be a difficult time for families and loved ones. Often the event is unexpected for the family and creates uncertainty as well as misconceptions and unrealistic expectations. Pine Ridge Care & Rehabilitation Center offers a hometown connection and offers homebased services. Pine Ridge Care & Rehab is a strong supporter of Meals On Wheels, inpatient respite care and other home and community-based services that enable and promote independent living. “We work hard to discharge our post-acute patients back to their homes, and understand that home is ideally where we all want to live,” states Debbie Street, Chief Executive Officer.

WHY PINE RIDGE?

Our vision is to radically change the landscape of long term care forever.

We believe that our skilled team and a positive outlook can achieve great things. Let us take that journey with you.

At Pine Ridge, our team of Rehabilitation, Nursing, Dietary, Activities and Chaplain services want to join with you and your family on the journey to healing and getting you to where you want to be as soon as possible. We take a “Wholeness Approach” which consists of healing in mind, body and spirit.

Contact Freida or Bryan for a tour of our Facility. 1200 Spruce Lane | Elizabethton, TN

pineridgecare.com

423.543.3202

voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2016 | 27

Full Once Again By Tresa Erickson

our mother has been struggling with thinning hair for years, but lately, it has gotten worse. She now has some bald spots and has started wearing a wig. She’s not a big fan of wigs, though, and you wish there was something you could do for her. Perhaps there is. Your mother may be a candidate for hair implants. There are two basic methods of hair implants: grafting and scalp reduction. With grafting, the surgeon removes a hair-bearing piece of scalp from the back of the head, divides it into smaller pieces and grafts them onto other areas of the scalp. There are three forms of grafting: micro, slit and punch grafts. Micro grafts bear one to two hairs each, slit grafts four to 10 hairs each, and punch grafts 10 to 15 hairs each. The average graft session involves the transplantation of 100 to 1,000 hair-bearing sections. To achieve a full head of hair, most patients require three to four sessions, spaced two to four months apart for healing. Side effects include swelling, bruising around the eyes and crusting, itching and a lack of feeling around the donor sites.

With a scalp reduction, the surgeon removes pieces of non-hair-bearing scalp and stretches the remaining hair-bearing scalp over them. Scalp reductions work best in areas on the top and back of the head, sometimes eliminating up to half of the bald area. They do not work well in areas near the hairline. For that, grafts may be needed. Many treatment plans, in fact, involve a combination of grafts and scalp reduction. Side effects of a scalp reduction include headaches and scalp tightness. Hair implants are not recommended for everyone. Ideal candidates include men with male-pattern baldness, women with thinning hair and individuals with partial hair loss due to burns, or scalp injuries. Women with diffuse hair loss and individuals with insufficient donor sites, keloid scars, or hair loss due to certain medications, may be advised to take an alternative route. Depending upon the nature of her baldness and the condition of her scalp, your mother may not have to resort to wearing a wig after all. She may be able to have hair implants. It certainly can’t hurt to ask, now can it? Make an appointment for her today with a qualified dermatologic surgeon and find out what her options are.

KEEP VISION IN YOUR FUTURE

Glaucoma Awareness Month

Assisted living in the comfort of your home Call for a FREE RN assessment:

855-704-HOME www.stayathomepc.com 28 | January 2016 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Glaucoma is a group of diseases that damages the eye’s optic nerve, which carries visual signals to the brain. It can lead to vision loss or blindness if left untreated. Primary open-angle glaucoma is the most common form of this disease and often has no symptoms in its early stages. Quite frequently, by the time people are diagnosed with glaucoma, they’ve already begun to notice changes in their side, or peripheral, vision. While anyone can get glaucoma, people at higher risk for glaucoma include African Americans age 40 and older; everyone over age 60, especially Hispanics/Latinos and those with a family history of the disease. A comprehensive dilated eye exam is a procedure in which an eye care professional places drops in your eyes to dilate (or widen) the pupil to examine the back of your eyes and check the optic nerve for signs of disease. This exam may help save your sight because when glaucoma is detected early, it can be controlled through medications or surgery. For additional information about glaucoma, visit www.nei.nih.gov/glaucomaor call NEI at 301–496–5248.

January is

THYROID AWARENESS MONTH I

t is reported that Thyroid disease affects approximately 200 million people worldwide, and if left undiagnosed and untreated, it can cause conditions such depression, tremors, muscle weakness and constant fatigue. The thyroid is responsible for producing hormones that help the body regulate its metabolism. When not working properly, it can cause the body’s system to speed up (hyperthyroidism) or slow down (hypothyroidism).

HOW TO PERFORM A THYROID NECK SELF-EXAM: • Use a mirror and focus on the lower middle area of your neck, above the collarbones and below the Adam’s apple (larynx). Your thyroid gland is located in this area of your neck. • While focusing on this area in the mirror, tip your head back. • Take a drink of water and swallow. • As you swallow, look at your neck. Check for any bulges or protrusions in this area when you swallow. Reminder: Don’t confuse the Adam’s apple with the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is located further down on your neck, closer to the collarbone. You may want to repeat this process several times. • If you do see any bulges or protrusions in this area, see your physician. You may have an enlarged thyroid gland or a thyroid nodule and should be checked to determine whether cancer is present or if treatment for thyroid disease is needed.

5 STAR ANNUAL SURVEY “We wanted you to know how much we appreciate the excellent care my husband received at your facility. Thanks to the physical therapists at Greystone, he learned to walk again. Your employees had unbelievable compassion when urging him to learn to walk again. All the nurses provided great care. Our family could not believe the difference in the care compared to other facilities.” — Janice Maxey (Wife) & Karen Anderson (daughter)

Quality healthcare guided by skilled hands, creative minds and compassionate hearts. We are dedicated to meeting the healthcare needs of the Tri-Cities communities. • Long Term Care • Skilled Nursing • Rehabilitation Services • Respiratory Services • Respite

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SYMPTOMS & FACTS ABOUT THYROID DISEASE: • Hyperthyroidism is an overactive thyroid and hypothyroidism is an underactive thyroid. • Symptoms of hyperthyroidism are: rapid weight loss, high blood pressure, anxiety and insomnia. • Symptoms of hypothyroidism are: weak or slow heartbeat; muscular weakness; constant fatigue; weight gain; depression; slow reflexes; sensitivity to cold; thick, puffy or dry skin; slowed mental processes and poor memory and constipation. • Goiter is another thyroid condition that causes a visibly enlarged thyroid gland, often causing difficulty swallowing or breathing. • Thyroid cancer, the fifth most common cancer in women, is the fastest growing number of new cases among all cancers in both men and women due to the increased detection. www.newswise.com

One spot

can change everything Skin matters. Get checked. Kingsport, TN (877) 878-DERM www.calladerm.com

voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2016 | 29

The goal of Sudoku is to fill a 9×9 grid with numbers so that each row, column and 3×3 section contain all of the digits between 1 and 9.

GOT… BUGS?

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We are here to greet you with a wonderful free “shopping bag” full of goodies from your local merchants. You not only receive discounts and coupons to businesses and services, you will receive free tickets to most of our area museums, theatres, etc.

ACROSS

1. Class of aromatics 5. “___ the night before ...” 9. Bagpiper’s wear 13. A chip, maybe 14. Fit 15. Kind of jar 16. A public place where refreshments are grown (2 wds) 18. In pieces 19. “The Joy Luck Club” author 20. “Help!” 21. River in a Strauss waltz 23. Break 25. Calmly, quietly 27. Lentil, e.g. 28. The America’s Cup trophy, e.g. 29. “Malcolm X” director 30. “Lohengrin,” e.g. 33. Bologna home 36. Spinal cord defect 38. Sideshow spiel 40. Bungle 41. “___ we having fun yet?” 42. Black cat, maybe 44. Cantina cooker 48. Surprised, scared 51. Kickback 53. Salivates or slobbers 54. Oolong, for one 55. African antelope 56. Bequeath 57. Trick 60. Didn’t dawdle 61. Casting need 62. Capital of ancient Chinese empire 63. Live wire, so to speak 64. Appear 65. Delhi dress

DOWN

1. Used to combine images 2. Anxiety 3. Attitude 4. Bar order 5. Pang 6. Bankrolls 7. A pint, maybe 8. Letter getter 9. Dead, as an engine 10. Rossellini of “Blue Velvet” 11. Danger for sailors 12. Discharge letters? 15. Power or prestige 17. Death on the Nile cause, perhaps 22. Aimless 24. Assume 25. Cleaned a wound 26. Assent 28. Victorian, for one 31. Pandowdy, e.g. 32. Sign up 34. ___-tac-toe 35. Literally, “for this” 36. Magnesium ______ 37. Carbonium, e.g. 38. ___ de deux 39. Like Radio City Music Hall 43. Gentlemen: Abbr. 45. Covered exterior gallery 46. One-dimensional 47. Former students 49. Vagabond 50. Pigeon-___ 51. Camelot, to Arthur 52. “Dig in!” 54. Certain surgeon’s “patient” 56. Boy 58. Golf ball support 59. Balaam’s mount

WOMEN

NOW REVIEWING CLAIMS LINKED TO: Talcum Powder— found to be linked to ovarian cancer

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