Voice 0418

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APRIL 2018

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Growing Trends in Today’s Homes

April 2018 | Volume 15 | Issue 4

Happy 90th ,

National Decorating Month 5

Earl!

Modernize your Home with Carpet 6

April Hensley 11

Denim is Timeless!

Jan Howery 12

Brides Can Be Beautiful Inside and Out

Growing Trends in Today’s Homes

13

7

Prepare HVAC Systems for Warmer Days Ahead 8

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Nancy Binder 14

Jan-Carol Publishing New Releases 16

How to Create A Canvas Vase Savannah Bailey

Elderly Wellness

9

20

Beautiful and Edible Spring Flowers 10

Celebrate Earth Day

I Brake For Antiques Pam Blair 25

We love you so much!

April Hot Hunk Hunt!

The March “Hot Hunk” was in the Symphony of the Mountains’ ad.

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson 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 2 tickets to Barter Theatre.

Congratulations to: Myrna Mccauley

as the winner in the March Hot Hunk Hunt!

Thanks to ALL for sending in your entry!

3–7 PM ERYDAY V E R U O HAPPY H BEERS ON TAP 20 IC LIVE MUS

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

HOT HUNK LOCATION: Where did I pick up my copy of Voice Magazine?

$5 LUNCH MENU & GLUTEN FREE MENU

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 April 20, 2018.

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.

3119 BRISTOL HWY • JOHNSON N CITY, Y TN ROCKSWOODFIRED.COM

423.262.0444

FREE Celebrating our 14th year!

We wouldn’t be here and there without all of you!

LITTLE CREEK BOOKS MOUNTAIN GIRL PRESS EXPRESS EDITIONS ROSEHEART PUBLISHING DIGISTYLE

From the EDITOR

“every story needs a book”

S

pring Fever has a hold on me! Oh, yes! The warmer weather is calling me outside. It is encouraging to see the flowers peeking through the ground and even the snow. April showers bring May flowers, and we bring our spring issue to you! We hope you enjoy!

Voice Magazine is moving into fifteen years of going strong. Our circulation has increased, our distribution has grown, and our website traffic continues to grow. Why? Because of all of you—our readers, supporters, fans, and loyal advertisers. Our sister magazine, Modern Day Appalachian Woman—Appalachian Living, continues to grow in popularity and is now online as a full magazine with different articles, more tips, and recipes. Please provide your feedback.

We want to hear from you and we are listening!

Jan-Carol Publishing has grown too! JCP books can be purchased from local businesses such as Mr.K’s in Johnson City, TN, Bubba’s Bookstore in Kingsport, TN, and the newest location is Harvest Table Restaurant in Meadowview, VA. If you would like to retail JCP books in your business, or set up a book signing, please give us a call.

In April, JCP will be hosting an Author’s Workshop. The name of the workshop is ‘I Have Published My Book, Now What?’ Please see our ad on page 11. We welcome any authors, and hopefully JCP authors will take advantage of this workshop. There is limited seating, so be sure to pre-register.

JCP is offering another imprint for authors seeking a digital and online venue.

Geared to shorter manuscripts, this opens many opportunities for short stories to get e-published. Email your submissions to submissions@jancarolpublishing.com.

Also, if you are an author seeking additional marketing, check out our blAwesome Marketing, www.blawesomemarketing.com. These marketing products are not just for JCP authors.

Again, I want to say a special ‘Thank You’ to all of you helping us celebrate many years of serving this region. Please ‘like’ us on Facebook–Voice Magazine, Modern Day Appalachian Woman, and Jan Carol Publishing.

We hope all of you had a Happy Easter!

Thought of the month: “Holding onto grievances is a decision to suffer.” –Gerald Jampolsky Verse of the month: “Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; 5 does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; 6 does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; 7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.” 1 Corinthians 13: 4–7 NKJV

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 publisher@jancarolpublishing.com APRIL CONTRIBUTING WRITERS April Hensley Julia Parsell

Nancy Binder Pam Blair

Tracy Fletcher McGlothlin Savannah Bailey

OFFICE Brandon Goins - Office Assistant office@voicemagazineforwomen.com office@jancarolpublishing.com Office Phone/Fax: 423.926.9983 Savannah Bailey Communications Director/Production Editor communications@jancarolpublishing.com SALES Jamie Bailey jamie@voicemagazineforwomen.com 423.384.8402 Julia Parsell julia@voicemagazineforwomen.com 828.216.1207 GRAPHICS/PRODUCTION Tara Sizemore - Senior Graphics Designer tara@voicemagazineforwomen.com graphics@jancarolpublishing.com DISTRIBUTION Karen Corder Staff JCP Internships Available

Celebrates 14 Years!

We are celebrating 14 years and moving into our 15th year.

Thank you! Voice Magazine for Women is here because of all of you!

We thank you for your continued support; we hope that you will provide us that same support as we journey into our next 14 years!

Still going strong as the region's ONLY WOMEN'S MONTHLY MAGAZINE!

From all of us to all of you—Thank you!

4 | April 2018 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

PUBLISHED BY JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC. (Volume 15, Issue 4) 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. © 2018 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.

S

ince April is National Decorating Month, it is a great time for home owners to use the month of April as a reason to freshen up the décor in your home. It can be as simple as changing out a lamp shade, updating your welcome mat or kitchen rugs, or adding some character with a unique decorating item that will add variety to your home.

Spring invites you to clean out the old and bring in the new.

You will feel a breeze of freshness with some special touches for the new season.

Here are a few tips!

Try updating your closet with all new hangers, all the same style. As you store your winter clothes, it is the perfect time to add organization to your closet.

Give an old piece of furniture new life with a new paint job.

Lighten up any room by trading heavy fabrics for light and airy ones. Change out throw pillows and give your living area or patio furniture a completely new feel. Rearrange or add in a few new photos or artwork to your walls. Consider buying a tree, put it in a basket, and place it in a bare corner.

Change with the season and add pops of color using accessories in every room.

With the bedroom, buy new bedding!

Even a new duvet

Now Hiring!

Voice Magazine is growing!

Bring your sales experience and sell a product that people love! We are hiring representatives for print and internet advertising sales. Established, growing, and expanding! Must be a team player, professional, and willing to work with limited supervision. High commission with unlimited potential. Email resume with references to publisher@jancarolpublishing.com

cover or shams will invigorate your bedroom. On a budget? Look for unused bedding at consignment stores or thrift stores. Many times these items have been gifts, and are donated rather than returned.

Brighten your bathroom by adding a new shower curtain and bathroom rug for a fresh new look.

Decorating on a budget? Try these!

Use plants to add color, texture, and life to every room.

Try this cute decorating idea found on Pinterest. Check out consignment stores or thrift stores for the perfect pair of boots, add some plastic bags in the toes for shape, and slip a vase in each boot. Next they simply added water and flowers. Cute!

With April bringing warm days and lots of sunshine, make your front porch inviting with potted plants, a new mat and new decoration around the front door. Simple, but refreshing!

Recently, while shopping in the local ‘Everything is a Dollar’ store, I saw straw hats, which are perfect for any craft project! And they have a perfect assortment of artificial accessories and flowers to complete your project.

Decorating the inside and outside of your home can be incredibly rewarding. Enjoy the new season!

Boot and flower photo source–www.onsuttonplace.com

Clean out your clutter and consign!

Accepting Furniture and Accessories 1st & 3rd Wednesdays Upscale Consignment 50 Euclid Ave. | Bristol, VA 276.644.4881 Mon–Fri 11–6 & Sat 11–4 www.ShopHouseDressing.com | Style@ShopHouseDressing.com

voicemagazineforwomen.com | April 2018 | 5

Modernize your Home with Carpet!

W

ith the popularity of laminate flooring or hardwood flooring, one might think that carpet is outdated and old-fashioned. This couldn’t be further from the truth!

Carpet styles for 2018 to help you stay contemporary and comfortable:

Bold Carpet Colors APRIL IS...

Distracted Driving Awareness Month Distracted driving is a public health issue that affects us all. The latest statistics show motor vehicle fatalities are up 6% from 2015. More than 40,000 people were killed on our nation’s roadways last year, and distracted driving is a major contributor. Just one second of your attention is all it takes to change a life forever. www.nsc.org

Even if it’s in a small area or room, a vivid carpet color can help make a bold statement in your home.

Bold-colored carpet not only helps brighten up the room, but it can also be a great way to add a touch of personality to your home.

Frieze Carpet

Frieze carpet, also known as Twist carpet, is known for its shaggy look, making it both casual and comfort-

able. This modern carpet can make a room look distinguished without being overly formal. Not only does frieze carpet add to the beautiful aesthetic of your home, but its crimped construction makes it easier to conceal dirt and crumbs. This casual and easy to clean carpet might be your best bet for a contemporary look.

Neutral Carpet Colors

Bold carpet colors may be an exciting new trend, but neutral carpet colors remain equally popular as we approach 2018. The gray momentum is still in full effect, but there is a rising popularity of taupe, beige, and greige (a cross between gray and beige). These colors coordinate with all different types of décor, helping you customize your home exactly how you want it to look. Using neutral tones helps make a smoother transition between different flooring types within your home.

Pattern Carpet

2907 Bloomingdale Rd. • Kingsport, TN ddcflooring.com • 423-288-5681 6 | April 2018 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Pattern carpet gives your floor a subtle, yet distinctive look. A modern carpet with geometric patterns are also on the rise. It’s amazing how simple and discreet shapes can make a perfect complement to contemporary decor.

It is easy to brighten and modernize your home with carpet in 2018!

Growing Trends in Today’s Homes

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he National Association of Realtors ® says the median number of days a home was on the market in April 2017 reached a new low of 29 days.

Why? Low interest rates on mortgages and more confidence in the economy has driven many people to make improvements to their existing homes. As is typical, the things homeowners are looking for in 2018 have evolved from years past. The following are some trends that are helping to steer the real estate market further.

• Smaller homes: Home sizes in the United States steadily increased for decades, eventually leading to an average of 2,453 square feet in 2014, according to U.S. Census figures. However, Realtor.com reported in 2015 that new construction homes have already begun to shrink by 40 square feet. There seems to be a slight trend toward more modest homes as people consider affordability and maintenance on larger properties. The National Association of Home Builders states buyers are now looking for smaller, more livable homes with flexible floor plans, energy-efficient appliances, and plenty of storage space. The creation of ‘tiny homes’ have offered an updated version of compact living rather than apartment living. These types of homes have an appeal to the younger generations and to first time home buyers.

• Matte finishes: Stainless steel and luster have been popular for years. However, the next big thing is matte finishes on faucets, appliances, and even on countertops.

These less flashy finishes are prized for their warmth and elegance. While some high-end models with matte finishes have been available for several years, even less expensive models are now available.

• Smarter technology: Many homeowners are embracing smart technology throughout their homes, but it’s not just lights that turn on with voice command or more efficient thermostats. Innovative technology includes toilets that can autonomously stay clean and sanitized, refrigerators equipped with cameras so homeowners can see the contents inside, and indoor food recyclers that can turn food waste into fertilizer.

Staying abreast of the ever-changing trends in home improvement and real estate can help consumers make the best choices with regard to buying and building their homes. voicemagazineforwomen.com | April 2018 | 7

Cool it!

Prepare HVAC systems for warmer days ahead

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pringtime announced its arrival on March 20 this year! Even with snowflakes falling, it is obvious that the weather is changing and a new season is upon us. Is your heat pump ready to make the change?

Before switching from winter heating to summer cooling, here are tips to ensure that your heat pump is ready for the seasonal change.

Inspect the outdoor unit panels. These panels are designed to enclose the electrical connections and must be in place to help protect both you and the system.

If you are missing a panel (possibly due to wind) or if the panel is misaligned, this could cause potential risks for both you and the operation of the equipment.

Get your heating/cooling system ready with a spring check-up!

Our services to keep you and your loved ones safe, happy, and warm or cool, include the following: • Installation • Service • Repairs • Replacements • Maintenance Calls Get in touch with us today for all your heating and cooling needs.

We have all the services to keep you comfortable all round the season.

Family-owned and operated with over 30 years experience Service agreements available and financing options

1030 Hwy 75 | Blountville, TN | 423.323.5020 johnleggsheatingandair.com M–F: 8am–5pm 24-Hour Emergency Service Available

8 | April 2018 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Spring is an ideal time to have HVAC systems inspected and repaired, if necessary.

Remove any debris from the outdoor coil. The system coils are designed to transfer heat, and any debris limits this effect. To get the best possible performance from your system, remove this debris from the coil and surrounding area. While mulching in the spring, take care to not pack mulch around the base of the heat pumps as there’s likely a space under the unit, and this should always be kept open to allow good air flow to the outdoor unit.

Change the air filters. The change in seasons is usually a good time to replace your indoor air filters.

Turn it on and make sure it works. Check the air coming out of the indoor vents for the first few minutes after starting it, and then every few hours throughout the day. After the first few minutes, you should feel cool air coming out of the registers. If no air is coming out, or if the air coming out does not feel cool, then something is wrong and you should immediately turn the system off at the thermostat. If the problem persists, turn the system off and call a good HVAC contractor who can diagnose the problem. Leaving the system turned on when it’s not running properly can do a lot of damage.

A qualified technician can help you do a more thorough spring technical inspection to avoid a system failure in the hottest months of the year. The technician can also help address any concerns you have, so scheduling a service spring inspection will help eliminate any future mishaps.

Summer is just around the corner!

How to Create

A Canvas Vase

By Savannah Bailey

T

he stocking of spring flowers in all the craft stores always inspires me to get going on spring and summer projects. This year, my first craft of the season was one that I’ve had in my mind for some time.

I started with a blank canvas, a wooden, mason jar cutout, and a whole bushel of fake flowers (many of which I still have left over for the next craft) from my local craft store.

I toyed with the idea of painting the canvas, but ultimately decided I preferred a more simplistic look.

I first painted the wooden mason jar in a mixture of pale blues. As the wood dried, I heated up my hot glue gun. I covered the back side of my wooden jar in a generous amount of hot glue and then pressed it onto the canvas, holding it in place until the glue cooled.

Next, I pulled the flowers and leaves I wanted off their stems. I used scissors to cut off and level the bottom of the flowers, and I laid them out at the top of the jar in a few separate configurations until I found one I liked.

For the final step, I coated the bottom, plastic base of the flowers in glue and pressed each flower into the canvas until it was secure. In trying this project, be careful not to burn your fingers through the thin fabric of the petals.

If the simplistic look of my finished product is a little too bland for your tastes, consider spicing up the mason jar with ribbon or by painting in a cute saying. You could also paint the canvas or wrap its edges in ribbon.

To take this project in another direction entirely, consider using a wooden base and creating your mason jar out of string art. In such a version of this craft, you could leave your flowers and stems intact, and glue them in behind the string art mason jar for a more rustic and realistic look.

Kids, do you have a craft?

Are you an artist?

Can you make things?

The Community Center of Abingdon wants you! This event is for kids from 6 to 18 years old.

Call now to register for your booth for April 20th and 21st (Friday and Saturday) and sell your crafts.

Booths are FREE and you keep the money you earn from what you sell. Door admission is only $5.00 per day, and all proceeds go to benefit The Community Center of Abingdon and Meals on Wheels.

The Community Center of Abingdon 300 Senior Drive Abingdon, VA 24210 276-628-3911

voicemagazineforwomen.com | April 2018 | 9

Beautiful and Edible Spring Flowers!

C

ultivating beautiful of the plant. However, blooms is a popular the blossoms, which pastime for gardeners are more mild than near and far, and many the leaves, can be tasty gardeners want to as well. embrace a long-endur• Calendula: Someing tradition — growing times known as “poor edible flowers. man’s saffron,” this Some notes of yellow flower in the caution should first marigold family can be mentioned. Avoid taste like saffron flowers that may have when it’s sautéed. been sprayed with funUncooked, calendula gicides, herbicides, or can have spicy notes insecticides. To verify that add variety to safety, only use edible salads and garnishes.

Marigolds are just one of the many flowers that can be consumed. flowers grown specifi• Chamomile: This cally for this purpose, not flowers picked from roadsides or plant features small, daisy-type flowers that can be from landscapes. Secondly, remember that not all flowers are used in treats and teas. edible. Some can be poisonous or cause severe gastrointesti• Cilantro: The flowers from the cilantro plant can nal upset when consumed. That means all flowers should be be eaten, just as the leaves and the seeds that form carefully researched prior to experimenting with them in the the spice coriander. kitchen.

• Fennel: Just like the plant itself, the flowers of Be careful to double-check against allergies and any interfennel have a subtle licorice flavor. actions with medications prior to use or eating the following: • Hibiscus: Hibiscus blooms are famously used in • Allium: These are blossoms from the allium family, hibiscus tea, which is tart and cranberry-like. which include garlic, chives, and leeks. These flowers • Lavender: The sweet, perfumed taste of lavender can be used to add flavor to foods. works in cocktails and desserts.

• Basil blossoms: It may be customary to pinch off the • Marigolds: These tiny flowers may be used in vegeblossoms of basil, which come in colors from white table gardens to repel animal and insect pests. Blosto lavender, in order to stimulate growth of the leaves soms have a fresh citrus taste that can be used in cooking.

• Pansies: These vibrant, early bloomers can take on a wintergreen flavor and look beautiful when glazed on cakes and other desserts.

• Roses: Beautiful to behold, rose petals can lend a subtle, fruity flavor You're gonna love your new city! to many different foods as well.

The NEWCOMERS WELCOME SERVICE • Zucchini: The blossoms from this is here to show you around the area via many merchants and also introduce you to our squash, which have a slightly sweet history and cultural areas through many local restaurants, attractions, and much more! taste, can be enjoyed in many different ways. Some people batter and fry Call for your free in-home visit and Call Benita to learn more! the blossoms, while others may stuff pathway to making new friends them with herbs and cheeses.

Are you new in town?

through our newcomers club.

10 | April 2018 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

423.202.1679

Celebrate Earth Day

By April Hensley

T

he first Earth Day was celebrated on April 22, 1970. It was planned as a way for concerned Americans to show their support for clean air and water. Millions of people came together that day across the United States, from all walks of life in their communities.

By the end of that year, the Environmental Protection Agency had been formed and laws protecting water, air, and wildlife were put into place. Earth Day is now remembered every year on April 22 with events in countries all around the world.

This year, Earth Day falls on a Sunday so more people will be off from work and school to enjoy the day. If the weather is nice in the area, it would be lovely to just sit outside for a few minutes and notice nature. Smell the air, look at the sky, and listen to the birds.

Spending time outdoors has been shown in studies to help reduce stress hormones. Below are a few ideas to help you make plans for your Earth Day. • Watch your local news and newspaper for community events in your town. Metropolitan areas usually have bigger gatherings, but small local communities have get-togethers too.

• Plant or pot a tree, bush, or flower for your home or yard. Pick trees that fit the size of your yard when fully grown. Don’t plant too close to powerlines. Before digging deep holes, call your service provider to mark underground utilities.

• Start a vegetable garden. In zone 7 there is still a small chance of frost but you can buy plants and plan with your family and friends where and what you want to grow.

• Start a recycling plan. Pick one item such as plastic, newspapers, glass, etc. that you want to recycle. Buy a container to hold the items. Find out where a recycling center is in your area.

• Plan an outdoor event such as a picnic or nature walk. Talk to your boss, pastor, or family about helping to organize the fun.

• Tell others about Earth Day such as children, family, friends, or co-workers, and post on social media. Hand out tiny packs of wildflowers to help spread the word.

• Start a compost bin to recycle vegetable scraps, coffee grinds, grass clippings, leaves, and shredded newspapers.

• For your next major purchase, think about choosing a more energy efficient automobile, appliance, or home heating unit.

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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.

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I have published my book, now what?

AUTHORS’ WORKSHOP

“every story needs a book”

You have published a book, NOW WHAT? Our workshop will include various topics, all related to currently published authors. This is not a writing seminar.

HOW TO: • • • • • •

Market your book (s) Make Social Media work for you Reach out to contacts for book signings Sell your book(s) Brand yourself as an author AND MUCH MORE!

PLAN TO ATTEND:

When: Saturday, April 28, 2018 Where: Johnson City Seniors’ Center at 510 Bert St, Johnson City, TN Time: Sign-in will be at 9:00 a.m, Workshop 9:30 a.m – 12:30 p.m.

Cost: The fee to attend is $25 for non-JCP authors and $15 for JCP authors.

You must register and pre-pay by April 15th to attend.

You can register and pay by calling our office at 423-926-9983. Limited seating! RSVP is a requirement!

We are planning to include a short break and snacks, though no lunch will be provided. If you have any questions, please email Savannah Bailey, communications@jancarolpublishig.com, or call 423-926-9983. voicemagazineforwomen.com | April 2018 | 11

Denim is Timeless!

By Jan Howery

O

ne classic and timeless garment that should be in every woman’s closet—a good fitting pair of denim jeans! Or maybe three or four or more pairs in an assortment of colors!

Styles of jeans have gone from ‘these are not your momma’s jeans’ to resurrecting ‘these are your momma’s jeans’ with the recent re-introduction of the high waisted jeans.

This year’s designers have included the skinny jeans that many women swear by and have shown to be stylish. One must have a variety of jeans in their wardrobe. To keep in the popularity of denim this spring and beyond, it is suggested to stock up on the three key types of jeans.

From pretty, powdery hues to iconic silhouettes here are three major comebacks: Sticking around this season are strong silhouettes: straight-leg, high-rise, cropped lengths.

Love color denim?

Brighten your spring with this season’s color palette for jeans. The powdered color tones are staple shades every woman needs in her closet for the season. They range from soft pastels in an offwhite macadamia, pale pink, and light minty blue.

For the evening occasion, all wide-leg shapes can easily transform from day to night.

Images—Mid-Rise Super Skinny Jeans for Women, Old Navy; LC Lauren Conrad Love, Lauren Cuffed Ankle Skinny Jeans, Kohl’s; Farrah Embroidered Flare, Free People

Soxy Lady!

Bristol Bridal Photo credit Danielle DeFayette Photography

S tation

Most Gowns Under $599 New, affordable, couture wedding gowns, bridesmaid dresses, Mother of the Bride dresses and accessories

New • Affordable • Couture bristolbridalstation.com | 423.968.9444 129A east main st • abingdon va open mon–sat 11–6

just a block down from Barter Theatre

12 | April 2018 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

bristolbridal@ywcatnva.org Located inside YWCA NETN and SWVA 106 State Street | Bristol, TN 37620

Walk Ins Welcome W-F 11-5 | Sat. 10-3

Brides Can Be Beautiful Inside and Out

Save $100!

I

n every bride’s heart there is a dream that for one day, her world will feel like a fairytale with her donned in a dress that makes her utterly enchanting. The mythic character, Cinderella, is a wonderful example of the transformational power of the right gown.

However, it wasn’t just the gown or Cinderella’s delicate features that made her so captivating, but also her inner beauty. She says, “Where there is kindness, there is goodness. And where there is goodness, there is magic.”

The opportunity to exude not only outer beauty, but inner beauty like the beloved Disney princess is made possible at the Bristol Bridal Station. From start to finish, the unique salon provides goodwill along with lovliness. The bridal boutique is a social enterprise of YWCA NETN and SWVA that provides new, designer wedding gowns at affordable prices to women of all income levels, typically at 50–75% off retail prices.

Generous, socially-minded owners and operators of over 30 bridal salons around the country donate their overstock and floor samples to the Bristol Bridal Station so that it may help empower and uplift the women and girls of our region. Every gown purchased helps support the YW’s community programs, such as a teen pregnancy support program, sliding-scale childcare for working families, and a STEM-based afterschool program for at-risk girls.

Brides literally feel beautiful on the inside and out when purchasing a gown that benefits so many beyond their “Big Day.” And being able to afford gowns by top designers like Vera Wang, Oscar de la Renta, Monique Lhuillier, and Maggie Sottero is a real life fairytale.

Bristol Bridal Station takes pride in making every bride feel like a princess in the boutique-style salon, located inside the YWCA building at 106 State Street, Bristol, TN. Hours of operation are Wednesday–Friday from 11am–5pm and Saturdays from 10am– 3pm, with no appointment necessary. Through April, a selection of gowns are on sale for as low as $99. For more information about the Bristol Bridal Station, please visit www. bristolbridalstation.com or contact the salon at 423.968.9444 or KPerry@ywcatnva.org.

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Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Commonly Known as Saigon Article and Photographs by Nancy Binder

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fter several days in Hanoi, our tour group of 10 people had a respite from the noise and congestion of the city with an overnight stay on a small ship in Ha Long Bay. What a delight that was! The bay has about 75 miles of coastline, about 2,000 limestone karst formations, and calm, clear Floating houses water. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Fishermen living in floating houses inhabit the bay. After stowing our belongings, a small motorboat came to take us to a floating dock where we boarded rowboats oared by ladies who stood in the back of the boat. We silently glided among the monolith karst islands, passing the fishing villages. Most of the islands were covered in vegetation and some were as tall as 300 feet. Returning to our small ship, we relaxed on the top deck. Time was standing still. After a beautifully presented Vietnamese dinner, I sat on the upper deck hoping to see thousands of stars, but alas it was cloudy.

The next day we transferred to the Hanoi Airport for our flight to Ho Chi Minh City, or as it is commonly called even by many residents, Saigon. The city population is 8.4 million people, and I think about one-third of them were at the airport! We were greeted in our downtown hotel rooms with a plate containing a green apple and a dragon fruit, a very pretty sight. Dinner began with a sweet lotus seed soup, which had a very unusual, but pleasant taste, however I doubt that I would order it again.

On Saturday morning, the cyclos were outside the hotel, waiting to pedal us around the downtown area to a local market. I had another scary ride sitting out in traffic with motorbikes zooming past as well as trucks, buses, and cars. What a relief I felt upon our safe arrival at the market!

After viewing the offerings for sale, a stroll down the VERY narrow streets, which were more like alleyways, gave us a feel of what was described as a very upscale neighborhood.

The houses are very narrow, but three and four stories tall. Most have a gate across the entrance to their home. If the

Rowing in Halong Bay 14 | April 2018 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

continued on next page

Author in a cyclo in Saigon residents own a car, it must be parked elsewhere, as there is no room on the street. The trash collector had a motorbike pulling a cart where he put the trash bags.

We visited a Buddhist monastery that was located on one of the narrow streets. A few blocks away we went into a shrine to the five mother goddesses; Heaven, Earth, Water, Mountains, and Forest.

A tour of the former Presidential Palace, which is now called Independence Palace or Reunification Hall, showed us where the iconic photographs were taken at the end of the war of people storming the gates of the palace, as the South Vietnam President and family were being evacuated by helicopter and the Viet Cong were rolling into Saigon.

Later, cold drinks on the roof of the Rex Hotel were refreshing. The Rex Hotel along with the Caravelle Hotel were two of the places where the war correspondents gathered daily in the 1960s. We stopped at the two shrines to the Buddhist monk who, in 1963, set himself ablaze in the middle of a very busy intersection with fellow monks

Shrine to Buddhist monk

chanting around him. They were protesting the persecution of Buddhists by the South Vietnamese government. Next to one of the shrines is a billboard with the photograph of the event which had appeared in newspapers around the world.

In the short time we were there, several people brought flowers to add to an already large floral tribute to the monk.

One evening I attended a performance of A O (pronounced ahh - ohh) at the French colonial Opera House, now called the Municipal Theater. It was a one hour dance, mime, and acrobatic tale of a young person moving from village life to the big city. It is on the order of Cirque du Soleil. The 20+ performers were outstanding.

The most poignant and sad visit was to Cu Chi Tunnels in the outer part of the city, where the Viet Cong had about 75 miles of tunnels that linked up to other tunnels all over the country. The Viet Cong hid in these tunnels along with having meeting rooms, field hospitals, kitchens, etc. set up. Visitors can squeeze through one of the tunnels, which had been widened for tourists although it still appears to be quite small. There were examples of the various primitive booby traps that maimed or killed U. S. and South Vietnamese soldiers. The complex has a shooting range where tourists can fire assault weapons. The sound of gunfire Tourist in Cu Chi while touring the tunnel area added to tunnel entrance the sadness of my visit.

We attended a lecture at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities on the history and economy of Vietnam by a Vietnamese professor who obtained his PhD from Harvard.

His history lesson reinforced what we heard in Hanoi, but his view of the current political (Communist) system, was far more liberal than what we had heard in the north. After the lecture, each one of us visited with a second year economics student. They were being graded on their English skills and their ability to interview us. The 19-year-old young lady that I was paired with had an excellent command of English, and was majoring in International Relations.

Saigon is a vibrant city with upscale shopping malls in the downtown area, nightclubs, tall modern buildings, a less rigid Communist philosophy, and a more Westernized lifestyle than what I saw in north Vietnam.

{

Nancy Binder is a retired application software developer turned freelance writer combining her love of travel with her desire to share her experiences. She is passionate about exploring the outdoors and has been “bitten by the African safari bug,� now her favorite travel destination. Contact her with comments or travel questions at nancybinder@msn.com. voicemagazineforwomen.com | April 2018 | 15

“every story needs a book”

Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc. is a small independent publishing press with a motivated force of authors. Mountain Girl Press, Little Creek Books, Express Editions, DigiStyle, Broken Crow Ridge, and RoseHeart Publishing are all imprints of Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc.

NEW RELEASES

OUT NOW

COMING SOON

The Truth Be Told

No Kids Required

Written by E. Louise Jaques

dinary ability ake people tell dleboard accithat when she elled to speak al, emotional, continues her ernative-facts

Written by Jenn Sadai No Kids Required is the story of 20 women who are choosing to be childfree. It showcases the blessings and burdens that come with their decision, how they fill their free time, and the countless reasons why these women decided that kids are not required. It’s an honest and insightful story about respecting one another’s choices and living life on your terms.

An ordinary woman discovers she has an extraordinary ability when she awakens from a coma—she’s able to make people tell the truth. When Amelia Jones recovers from a paddleboard accident on Amelia Island, Florida, she soon realizes that when she says the words ‘the truth be told,’ others are compelled to speak honestly. As she deals with the profound intellectual, emotional, and spiritual impact of the 45th Presidency, she continues her soul-searching about the nature of ‘truth’ in an alternative-facts society.

her abilities are s for help from She becomes a deadly plot NC, a fanatical olitical figures. with the KNC

—Martha Orlando

Author, A Trip, a Tryst and a Terror, Children in the Garden, The Moment of Truth, Revenge!, Redemption, Revelation

— Gavin Hill, Author of the Maze series and A Lesson in the Jungle

“For an enthralling glimpse into history, follow Johnny and Yellow Dog through the loss of father and friend, during a period of time when survival was the ultimate goal for all who were living. Peggy McLain spins an exciting tale that keeps all readers interested to the end of the story and then beyond as they wonder about what comes next.”

—Linda Hudson Hoagland Author, Lindsay Harris Murder Mystery Series

Peggy McLain has found a way to make reading fun, yet educational. Her folksy, southern writing style is clear and concise.

Her memorable characters and storyline show the true worth of good character, wise mentoring, and faithful friendship; a lot in a little book, which makes The Shadow Dogs a great read for young and old alike. Visit: www.facebook.com/theshadowdogs

Dale P. Rhodes, Sr. was born in central Virginia and still lives there today. He wrote poetry and short stories in high school.

After graduation life became centered around work, bills, and parenthood, and writing was pushed to the back burner. The death of Dale’s father stirred his pen to life again. Dale loves his wife and their four grown children. He also loves movies, music, sports, and doing projects around the house. His rescue dogs and cats are his babies now. Dale continues to write and hopes to have his fourth and fifth books coming to fruition in the near future.

CITY ON A HILL SERIES BOOK 1

Dale P. Rhodes, Sr.

rom across the ocean to the Carolina Mountains comes a boy and his faithful yellow dog. Set in Colonial frontier times John is no stranger to adversity. Join John in a tangled web of lies and deceit, as he fights to survive while seeking his destiny. As John’s adventure unfolds, see him struggle with his own inner demon, fight in the Battle of King’s Mountain, and discover his connection to the mystical Shadow Dogs. John’s story is one of both joy and heartbreak that you’ll never want to end.

— Linda Hudson Hoagland, Author of Snooping Can Be Uncomfortable

Guardian Angel, Thaniel, is struggling. His greatest weakness, his love for humans, is also his greatest strength. For centuries, he has cared for and looked after people, trying to lead them to God. Things are not working out the way he believes they should and another funeral is more than he can bear. Failure looms over every step he takes, but things aren't always as they seem. Life goes on and Thaniel must as well.

PEGGY MCLAIN

From across the ocean to the Carolina Mountains comes a boy and his faithful yellow dog. Set in Colonial frontier times, John is no stranger to adversity.

Join John in a F tangled web of lies and deceit, as he fights to survive while seeking his destiny. As John’s adventure unfolds, see him struggle with his own inner demon, fight in the Battle of King’s Mountain, and discover his connection to the mystical Shadow Dogs. John’s story is one of both joy and heartbreak that you’ll never want to end.

“Have you ever wondered what an angel might be thinking?

Dale P. Rhodes, Sr. explores that idea and tells a story of how difficult life can be, even for an angel. Persuading people to follow the right path is not always an easy task, especially when you have doubts yourself just as Thaniel, guardian angel, does. Thaniel leads the reader on to a good story to be remembered.”

CITY ON A HILL SERIES BOOK 1

Written by Dale P. Rhodes, Sr. Guardian Angel, Thaniel, is struggling. His greatest weakness, his love for humans, is also his greatest strength. For centuries, he has cared for and looked after people, trying to lead them to God. Things are not working out the way he believes they should and another funeral is more than he can bear. Failure looms over every step he takes, but things aren’t always as they seem. Life goes on and Thaniel must as well.

“Set in Colonial, South Carolina, The Shadow Dogs is historical fiction at its best.

McLain’s engaging prose, believable characters, and the plot’s unexpected twists and turns pull you into an intriguing story you won’t want to put down.”

THE SHADOW DOGS

Written by Peggy McLain

“Are you ready for tomorrow, or are you oblivious to the dangers around you? Author Dale P. Rhodes, Sr. explores each avenue of life in his novel, If Only, questioning the very fabric of human society— God and the devil and heaven and hell. There are guardian angels among us, watching and guiding us. You only have to believe.”

If Only

The Shadow Dogs

If Only

Dale P. Rhodes, Sr.

U.S. $13.95 • CAN $17.00 COPYRIGHT 2018 COVER DESIGN: TARA SIZEMORE JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC JANCAROLPUBLISHING.COM

U.S. $13.95 • CAN $16.00 COPYRIGHT 2017 COVER DESIGN: TARA SIZEMORE JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC JANCAROLPUBLISHING.COM

— Martha Jane Orlando, Author of A Trip, a Tryst and a Terror, Children in the Garden, The Moment of Truth, Revenge!, Redemption, and Revelation

“Life is a mosaic of colors all coming together to form a masterpiece we call life. It is laughter, joy and pain that make up the moments of our lives, but it is our faith that we turn to in the darkest of hours.”

— Stacey Schlegl,

Author of MerMountain, Tiny Learns to Listen, and Little Frog

Written by Charlotte S. Snead Illustrated by Teresa Wilkerson

Goes to the Doctor

Charlotte S. Snead’s goal is to take the fear out of going to the doctor. Deano can be brave, and so can the young readers.

Dale P. Rhodes, Sr. has lived in Central Virginia his entire life. He enjoys music, sports (go Miami Dolphins), movies, his pets, and spending time with family. Writing was a secret hobby growing up that came back to him as he watched his father suffer with Dementia.

Beginning with poetry, he has moved into Christian fiction, and is currently working on the third book to his City on a Hill Series.

U.S. $13.95 • CAN $16.50 COPYRIGHT 2018 COVER DESIGN: TARA SIZEMORE JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC JANCAROLPUBLISHING.COM

Charlotte S. Snead Illustrated by Teresa Wilkerson

“If you lived back in the holler, that meant you were raised in the country, or on a farm, and the road usually led only to local neighbors’ homes. The holler was your community. Elizabeth Hardin Buttke recalls life in a gentle time. Deep in the Holler, Appalachian Tales brings back memories of my own childhood. However, if you were not so fortunate, reading these fascinating stories will leave you with a taste of life in the Appalachian Mountains of East TN.”

Written by Elizabeth Hardin Buttke

—BEV FREEMAN

Author of Silence of the Bones and Where Lady Slippers Grow

Deep in the Holler, Appalachian Tales is a collection of short stories filled with laughter. Read all about a little ab redheaded girl’s memories that still make her smile today, from making apple butter, to getting into some hilarious situations. The book also includes the story “Candy Corn,” about a small mountain community devastated by death and the abuse of innocence.

—BRENDA CRISSMAN MUSICK

Appalachian Tales

“We all have memories of our childhood, but it’s a true blessing when those memories can bring laughter. Buttke provides plenty of laughter as she tells her stories of the good ol’ days. You will smile and you will laugh, but also be prepared for a tear or two.”

Appalachian Author

Elizabeth Hardin Buttke is currently working on a children’s book, along with the book, Through Laughter and Tears.

She spends her time at home in Tennessee.

U.S. $10.00 • CAN $12.50 COPYRIGHT 2018 FRONT COVER PAINTING: HELEN COOK LOWE FRONT COVER DESIGN: TARA SIZEMORE JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC JANCAROLPUBLISHING.COM

16 | April 2018 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

ELIZABETH HARDIN BUTTKE

Deep in the Holler, Appalachian Tales is a collection of short stories filled with laughter. Read all about a little redheaded girl’s memories that still make her smile today, from making apple butter, to getting into some hilarious situations. The book also includes the story “Candy Corn,” about a small mountain community devastated by death and the abuse of innocence.

Next Summer CITY ON A HILL SERIES BOOK 2

Dale P. Rhodes, Sr.

Next Summer

Written by Dale P. Rhodes, Sr. When lifelong best friends, Da Juan and Sterling, head to school on the first day of their senior year, they are excited to be the top dogs. They never expected their rookie history teacher to throw down the gauntlet on the first day and make a challenge that would engulf the whole senior class, but that’s exactly what he does. This group of friends, however, backs down from no one and nothing. In their last year of high school and the mission trip that becomes their journey the next summer, they prove there is nothing that true friendship cannot overcome. From school books to pranks, to lending a helping hand to giving your life, these friends hold nothing back and carve out a legacy that will propel them into the rest of their lives.

DEEP IN THE HOLLER

Deep in the Holler Appalachian Tales

Dale P. Rhodes, Sr.

When lifelong best friends, Da Juan and Sterling, head to school on the first day of their senior year, they are excited to be the top dogs. They never expected their rookie history teacher to throw down the gauntlet on the first day and make a challenge that would engulf the whole senior class, but that’s exactly what he does. This group of friends, however, backs down from no one and nothing.

In their last year of high school and the mission trip that becomes their journey the next summer, they prove there is nothing that true friendship cannot overcome. From school books to pranks, to lending a helping hand to giving your life, these friends hold nothing back and carve out a legacy that will propel them into the rest of their lives.

CITY ON A HILL SERIES BOOK 2

Deano the Dino Goes to the Doctor

Doctor

o the doctor. ders.

Next Summer

“In his lively, entertaining, Christian-themed novel, Next Summer, Dale P. Rhodes, Sr., celebrates the power and positivity of true friendship, and how the strong bond between the two can influence the lives of others for the better. This is a must-read for young adults!”

Appalachian Tales

Elizabeth Hardin Buttke

find us:

www.jancarolpublishing.com /JanCarolPublishingInc @jancarolbooks

Ask the Book Editor Judi Light Hopson

“every story needs a book”

AUTHORS on the ROAD Jocelyn M. Lacey Pierre the Peacock Friday, April 6, 2018 1 pm – 4 pm Book Signing, Gourmet and Company Restaurant and Retail Shop Johnson City, TN Pauline E. Petsel Sparks; Things That Go Bump in the Night; Without a Word book 1 and book 2 Friday, April 20, 2018 10 am – 3 pm Book Signing, Tusculum Old Oak Festival Tusculum, TN Saturday, April 21, 2018, 10 am – 3 pm Book Signing, Tusculum Old Oak Festival Tusculum, TN Sunday, April 22, 2018 10 am – 3 pm Book Signing,Tusculum Old Oak Festival Tusculum, TN Rosie Hartwig-Benson Petals of Distinction Thursday, April 12, 2018 5 – 7 pm Book Signing, Pioneerland Library Litchfield, MN Saturday, April 14, 2018 1 – 3 pm Book Signing, Barnes & Noble Mankato, MN Rose Klix God, My Greatest Love Saturday, April 21, 2018, 2 pm Reading by the members of PST-NE (Poetry Society of Tennessee- Northeast branch) Little Book Store Big Stone Gap, Virginia Elizabeth Hardin Buttke Deep in the Holler Saturday, April 7, 2018, 10 am – 1 pm Book Signing, Steel Rails Coffee Shop Erwin, TN Linda Hudson Hoagland Snooping Can Be Uncomfortable; Snooping Can Be Helpful – Sometimes; Onward & 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 Easter Lilies; Broken Petals; and These Haunted Hills Monday, April 2, 2016, 7 pm Tazewell County Habitat for Humanity Board Meeting, Tazewell Mall Circle Tazewell, VA Thursday, April 5, 2018, 11:30 am – 1:30 pm, Golden Corral, Lost State Writers Guild Meeting Kingsport, TN Tuesday, April 10, 2018, 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm, Small Business Incubator Board Meeting and Workshop VHCC Campus Abingdon, VA

Thursday, April 12, 2018, 6 pm – 8 pm Buchanan County Library Author Panel – Book Signing 1185 Poe Street Grundy, VA Friday, April 13, 2018, 4 pm – 9 pm Bristol Motor Speedway Family Race Night – Book Signing Bristol, TN Saturday, April 14, 2018, 10 am – 4 pm Bluefield College Appalachian Festival – Book Signing 3000 College Avenue Bluefield, VA 24605 Wednesday, April 18, 2018, 4 pm – 8 pm Bluefield State College Agora Celebration – Serving as a Judge Bluefield, WV Saturday, April 21, 2018, 9:30 am – 4 pm Redbud Festival, Book Signing Honaker, VA Monday, April 23, 2018, 1 pm – 5 pm Richlands Library, 102 Suffolk Avenue Book Signing Richlands, VA Friday, April 27, 2018, 10 am – 8 pm Better Living Show, Book Signing Brushfork Armory Bluefield, WV Saturday, April 28, 2018, 10 am – 6 pm Better Living Show Book Signing Brushfork Armory Bluefield, WV Wayne and Ralphine Major Piddle Diddle, the Widdle Penguin, and the Texas Longhorns; Piddle Diddle, the Widdle Penguin, Goes to Hawaii; and Piddle Diddle’s Lost Hat; plus Moondance of the Fireflies by Tamela Marie Wheeler and Little Teddy’s Big Adventures

by Teresa Wilkerson Saturday, April 7, 2018, 10 am – 1 pm, Book Signing, Farragut Book Fest for Children, Founders Park at Campbell Station, Farragut, Tennessee Wayne and Ralphine Major will be on DAY TIME TRI-CITIES April 10th, 10 am on WJHL-TV

Voice Magazine recognizes the

Reader of the Month

Q:

Judi, I am helping a friend of mine complete a novel by offering a little editing on each chapter. She has changed some of the chapters several times, and I’m getting weary! How can I save my sanity? –Ellen R., Philadelphia

A:

Ellen, good writing has to “age.” It’s best if an author comes back to one chapter several times with days or weeks in between. Very few get the wording right the first time! But—ask your friend to focus on the writing until the text is 90 percent okay. Editing can easily come last. –Judi Light Hopson

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What is Shamanism? Curious?

Is it healing? Will it work for you?

Renowned and worldly noted Practitioner of Shamanism, author August Lageman takes you into a journey of insights and healings in his book, Shamanism in the 21st Century. This book grew out of the first seven years of August Lageman’s practice as a shaman. The book shows how the teachings of the Four Winds Society actually work with clients. In addition, August kept an open mind and integrated tools and insights from other forms of healing such as reiki and Holographic Healing. This book demonstrates how a person with a rocky childhood can heal from early wounds with the help of skilled shamans. August writes from his heart.

NOW AVAILABLE

Jancarolpublishing.com, Amazon.com, Barnesandnoble.com Available Print or E-Book For more information, visit augustlightworker@wildblue.net or call 276-475-3345 for a private or group consultation.

Cheryl Livingston

Elizabethton, TN • Works for: State of Tennessee • Author of THE CRAYON (W)RAPPER I feel empowered when: I am in my workshop, creating a new piece of stained glass.

dive headfirst into a pizza, with ice cream for dessert!

I’m obsessed with: illustrating my current children’s book.

If I could travel anywhere in the world, it would be: Australia – no wait, there are too many poisonous spiders and snakes there. I think I would choose Greece instead.

The last book I read was: an instructional book about watercolor and colored pencil techniques.

My ideal meal is: due to food allergies, my choices are limited. But if I could, I would

I can’t leave home without: giving my little dog a good-bye treat!

If you are interested in being our Reader of the Month, email tara@voicemagazineforwomen.com for details.

voicemagazineforwomen.com | April 2018 | 17

Making the Move – Home to Assisted Living

By Cindy K. Sproles

T

he decision to move a parent into an assisted living or nursing home facility is both heart wrenching and guilt filled. No doubt parents are happier in their own environment. They thrive much better from their homes due to this one simple thing: A sense of independence. But what happens when a move must be made?

Often aging parents are reluctant—even determined, they won’t move into a facility. The one card they play is the guilt card. “I’ve taken care of you all your life and now you just want to put me away?” This is a normal response to the possibilities of losing their independence.

Even the most loving parent can find something to make the decision harder. The job of children is to prepare in advance. Sometimes the best a child can hope for is cooperation, even if it’s begrudging.

There are ways to make the transition easier and they should begin before a parent needs the assistance: • Have the discussion—Talk with aging parents early on addressing the what ifs. What if you fall and become unable to care for yourself? What if your memory becomes clouded and you cannot remember to eat or bathe? What if your children live in other states? There are lots of what ifs your family can discuss.

Address these things when parents are in good health and a bit more reasonable, then write down the appropriate decisions.

• Do the paperwork—Prepare for/with aging parents. Secure necessary power of attorney and durable power of attorney for daily living care. Set up a revocable trust that parents can divert funds for their home to, which remain untouched for their care. Seek the assistance of the bank to place one executer as an owner on all bank accounts, IRA and insurance policies (simply having your name on the signature card does not allow you access to necessary funds in the event of death or an emergency). Put a living will, and an after-life will, into

1134A Moreland Dr. Kingsport, TN 423.246.0100

play. Keep copies handy in the event of an emergency. Place insurance, doctor’s names and phone numbers, pharmacies, and even copies of prescriptions and medication lists into a 3-ring binder for easy access. Add copies of driver’s licenses, social security cards, and insurance cards you feel are necessary as time progresses. Having these things in one place saves chaos and confusion when they are needed.

• Visit facilities—Visit facilities to see what is offered. Check costs, insurance coverages, and out-of-pocket expenses. Talk with the families of other residents and see how the care stacks up with their loved one.

When you feel a move is necessary for the health and safety of your parent, make a doctor’s appointment, first without the parent and then later with the parent. Ask questions, express your concerns. Give the doctor a heads up on your loved one. Then schedule an appointment with the parent. Allow the doctor to do a fair assessment and testing, and if the medical professional deems it necessary, allow them to be the one to recommend a move. Many times, aging parents will listen to the doctor before they will listen to their children. Exhibit compassion and remember, it hurts and it’s frightening—so be understanding.

Once the doctor delivers the suggestion, allow your parent time to absorb the news. Don’t rush out of the office and into a facility. Offer your loved one some space to gather their thoughts and take in the reality and the release of their independence. It is a life-altering decision.

Making the Move

• Take time to sort through possessions as a family—A few weeks prior to moving your parent, sift through belongings with them. Allow them to pick and choose what they need to take. Their choices may be different than yours, but that’s fine.

Remember, they must be comfortable with what they take.

Help them choose the sentimental items that keeps a sense of familiarity close.

• Purchase a new mattress—Though this can be costly, it’s worth the effort. A comfortable new mattress helps lull your loved one into a more restful sleep. A good night’s sleep is worth the effort. A rested parent, eats better and has a healthier attitude.

• Don’t forget to take their hobbies—If your mother is an active seamstress, take her sewing. If dad is an avid reader, make sure he has access to his reading. Make room for their favorite chair.

It’s the little things that mean the most.

• Keep their routine—Routine is important. If mom has her hair done weekly, “Keeping the Comforts of Home” keep the routine. Routines help maintain “normal,” and they allow a sense • Alzheimer's Care • Respite Care of independence. Take parents shop• Dementia Care • Companion Care ping, to church, and on outings. Being • Hospital to Home • Hospice Care pro-active is vital. Remain in close • Personal Care contact with your aging parents.

The decision to move into an assisted living or nursing home facility is hard but you can make the transition a joy by making decisions early and using a deep compassion when the day arrives.

kingsport-354.comfortkeepers.com

18 | April 2018 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Tips for Dry Skin Woes SOS for Chapped Lips Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, and use a humidifier at home.

Liberally apply beeswax or petroleum jelly to your lips. Put on lip balm or lipstick with sunscreen every time you go outside. Avoid being in the sun and wind too much. Don’t lick your lips—it may feel better briefly, but it only makes chapped lips worse.

Heal Cracked Heels Painful, cracked heels are a common skin condition, especially in winter. They are often caused by dry skin. Having calluses around the rim of the heel can complicate the problem. In some cases, dry, cracked feet can lead to infection or make walking painful. Keep feet healthy by marinating cracked heels in petroleum jelly, covering them with plastic wrap, and putting on a pair of socks overnight. You should see improvement in a few days.

Give Dry Hands Extra Care

Clear Away Dead Skin First To get the most out of your moisturizer, exfoliate. Exfoliate gently with a moisturizer that contains lactic acid or salicylic acid. Some exfoliants can be irritating, especially in winter, so try them on a small patch of skin first. If your skin is really dry or irritated, ask your doctor before starting a new skin care product or regimen.

Winter Showers and Baths A shower can add water to your skin—as long as you keep it short and sweet. Long, hot showers can actually draw moisture from your skin.

Lukewarm water is a better choice. It won’t strip away skin’s natural oils.

Also, beat itchy skin by taking a lukewarm bath with oatmeal or baking soda, reapplying your moisturizer frequently, and steering clear of wool and other rough fabrics.

Lock in Moisture After Your Bath Right after you step out of the tub, pat skin dry and apply moisturizer to retain the water your skin just absorbed. A glycerin or hyaluronic acid-based moisturizer can increase the amount of water that’s drawn into your skin. Baby oil (mineral oil) is also a good choice, because it prevents water from evaporating from your skin. Don’t stop there—liberally re-apply moisturizer throughout the day, especially to troublesome, dry skin patches. www.webmd.com

Your hands may be hard hit by the cold winter air. Washing your hands frequently helps eliminate cold and flu germs, but it also increases dryness. And unless you wear gloves every time you go out, hands may be more exposed to cold than other parts of your body. Give dry hands some extra TLC by using a glycerin-based moisturizer when you wake up, before you go to bed, and any time your hands feel dry throughout the day.

Use Super-Fatted Soap The same products that keep your face looking fresh in the spring and summer may cause skin problems during winter. Choose a gentle, super-fatted, fragrance-free soap—bar or liquid —for cleansing. Super-fatted means the soap is loaded with oils. Use a non-astringent toner, or just skip it altogether. If skin is dry, moisturizers that contain urea, dimethicone, glycerin, lanolin, or mineral oil can be good bets.

You need your skin. Treat it well.

Choose a Winter Moisturizer If you usually use a light lotion, try a heavier cream, at least on dry skin patches. Ointments—like petroleum jelly—have more oil than creams or lotions. That makes them greasier, too, so they may be best for feet and body. Minimize the greasy feeling by using a very small amount and gently but thoroughly rubbing it into skin. Apply after a warm shower (more on that later).

Decode Moisturizer Choices Humectants—like urea, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, propylene glycol— absorb water from the air. They are oil-free. Emollients —like baby or mineral oil, plant oils (like jojoba oil), petroleum jelly, lanolin, stearic acid—help replace oils in the skin. Many moisturizers contain a combination. You may want to skip some anti-aging moisturizers during winter.

Those that contain retinoids can further irritate already dry, sensitive skin.

Same-day appointments available Millie Henderson, FNP-BC

Jami Reaves, DO, FAOCD, FASMS

Kingsport, TN | (877) 878-DERM www.calladerm.com voicemagazineforwomen.com | April 2018 | 19

Elderly Wellness Adult and Elder Care

Your loved one’s care does not always take place in hospitals, or nursing homes, or doctor offices, or medical clinics. Most care actually occurs in the home— and that’s a good thing. People are healthier at home and health care costs are reduced. Family caregivers have the best interests of their loved ones at heart. But caregiving at home can take its toll, and it certainly takes a lot of planning. The nation’s 90 million family caregivers are front and center in providing care every day—enabling their loved ones to stay at home longer, where they are happier and healthier.

Did you Know?

• Most adults would prefer to age in place. 90% of adults over the age of 65 would prefer to stay in their current home as they age. Family, friends, and neighbors provide 80% of the care for the elderly.

• Two out of every five adults are family caregivers. 39% of all adult Americans are caring for a loved one who is sick, disabled, or living with frailties of old age.

• Complex care happens in the home. Almost half of family caregivers perform sophisticated medical/nursing tasks for their loved ones—such as providing wound care and Feeling overwhelmed? operating specialized medical You don’t have to do this alone. equipment—and up to 70% manage medications for their Keep your loved one at home. loved ones.

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10 Tips for Family Caregivers 1. Seek support from other caregivers.

2. Take care of your own health so that you can be strong enough to take care of your loved one.

3. Accept offers of help, and suggest specific things people can do to help you.

4. Learn how to communicate effectively with doctors.

5. Caregiving is hard work, so take respite breaks often.

6. Watch out for signs of depression, and don’t delay in getting professional help when you need it.

7. Be open to new technologies that can help you care for your loved one.

8. Organize medical information so it’s up to date and easy to find.

9. Make sure legal documents are in order.

10. Give yourself credit for doing the best you can in one of the toughest jobs there is! CaregiverActionNetwork.com

April is Pharmacists’ War on Diabetes Month

Now is a good opportunity to assess your own risk factors. Type II Diabetes is one of the major preventable diseases among developed nations, and as the obesity epidemic continues, diabetes, too, is on the upswing since the two are related.

Causes of Type II Diabetes Diabetes is corrosive to your health, and has been compared to having “rust in your blood” by some health professionals. The condition arises when the glucose (sugar) level in your blood is too high. Normally the pancreas produces insulin in the proper amounts to handle any spikes in blood glucose levels. However, when blood sugar remains high over time the pancreas may stop working properly, as it develops insulin resistance. Then sugar builds up in the bloodstream and over time starts to damage organs.

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P

arkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects predominately dopamine-producing (“dopaminergic”) neurons in a specific area of the brain called substantia nigra. Symptoms generally develop slowly over years.

The progression of symptoms is often a bit different from one person to another due to the diversity of the disease.

Below are 10 signs that you might have the disease. No single one of these signs means that you should worry, but if you have more than one sign you should consider making an appointment to talk to your doctor.

TREMOR—­Have you noticed a slight shaking or tremor in your finger, thumb, hand or chin? A tremor while at rest is a common early sign of Parkinson’s disease.

WHAT IS NORMAL? Shaking can be normal after lots of exercise, if you are stressed or if you have been injured.

Shaking could also be caused by a medicine you take.

SMALL HANDWRITING—Has your handwriting gotten much smaller than it was in the past? You may notice the way you write words on a page has changed, such as letter sizes are smaller and the words are crowded together. A change in handwriting may be a sign of Parkinson’s disease called micrographia.

WHAT IS NORMAL? Sometimes writing can change as you get older if you have stiff hands or fingers or poor vision.

LOSS OF SMELL—Have you noticed you no longer smell certain foods very well? If you seem to have more trouble smelling foods like bananas, dill pickles, or licorice, you should ask your doctor about Parkinson’s.

WHAT IS NORMAL? Your sense of smell can be changed by a cold, flu or a stuffy nose, but it should come back when you are better.

22 | April 2018 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

TROUBLE SLEEPING—Do you thrash around in bed, or act out dreams when you are deeply asleep? Sometimes, your spouse will notice or will want to move to another bed. Sudden movements during sleep may be a sign of Parkinson’s disease.

WHAT IS NORMAL? It is normal for everyone to have a night when they ‘toss and turn’ instead of sleeping. Similarly, quick jerks of the body when initiating sleep or when in lighter sleep are common and often normal.

TROUBLE MOVING OR WALKING—Do you feel stiff in your body, arms, or legs? Have others noticed that your arms don’t swing like they used to when you walk? Sometimes stiffness goes away as you move. If it does not, it can be a sign of Parkinson’s disease. An early sign might be stiffness or pain in your shoulder or hips. People sometimes say their feet seem “stuck to the floor.”

WHAT IS NORMAL? If you have injured your arm or shoulder, you may not be able to use it as well until it is healed, or another illness like arthritis might cause the same symptom.

CONSTIPATION—Do you have trouble moving your bowels without straining every day? Straining to move your bowels can be an early sign of Parkinson’s disease and you should talk to your doctor.

WHAT IS NORMAL? If you do not have enough water or fiber in your diet, it can cause problems in the bathroom.

Also, some medicines, especially those used for pain, will cause constipation. If there is no other reason such as diet or medicine that would cause you to have trouble moving your bowels, you should speak with your doctor.

A SOFT OR LOW VOICE—Have other people told you that your voice is very soft or that you sound hoarse? If there has been a change in your voice, you should see your doctor about whether it could be Parkinson’s disease. Sometimes you might think other people are losing their hearing, when really you are speaking more softly.

WHAT IS NORMAL? A chest cold or other virus can cause your voice to sound different, but you should go back to sounding normal when you get over your cough or cold.

MASKED FACE—Have you been told that you have a serious, depressed or mad look on your face, even when you

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O

are not in a bad mood? This is often called facial masking.

If so, you should ask your doctor about Parkinson’s disease.

WHAT IS NORMAL? Some medicines can cause you to have the same type of serious or staring look, but you would go back to the way you were before after you stopped the medication.

DIZZINESS OR FAINTING—Do you notice that you often feel dizzy when you stand up out of a chair? Feeling dizzy or fainting can be a sign of low blood pressure, and can be linked to Parkinson’s disease.

WHAT IS NORMAL? Everyone has had a time when they stood up and felt dizzy, but if it happens on a regular basis you should see your doctor.

STOOPING OR HUNCHING OVER—Are you not standing up as straight as you used to? If you or your family or friends notice that you seem to be stooping, leaning, or slouching when you stand, it could be a sign of Parkinson’s disease.

WHAT IS NORMAL? If you have pain from an injury or if you are sick, it might cause you to stand crookedly. Also, a problem with your bones can make you hunch over.

Talk to your medical doctor for testing and a proper diagnosis. Source: www.parkinson.org individuals looking to shed a little extra weight, caffeine may help there, too. Several studies show that caffeine can boost metabolic rate by three to 11 percent, according to Healthline.

Coffee, which boasts the vitamins B2, B5, B3, manganese, and potassium, delivers caffeine and can be part of a nutritious diet and successful weight-management regimen.

People prone to headaches and recurrent pain may find caffeine can help them manage those symptoms. Caffeine is one of the main ingredients in some pain relievers. Coffee and caffeine provide various health benefits and can be beneficial when consumed in moderation. Anyone who wants to alter their caffeine consumption should do so gradually to see how their body reacts to the changes.

ne of the most widely consumed substances in the world, caffeine is found in varying amounts in coffee, tea, chocolate, soda, and energy drinks. According to the marketing experts at Brandon Gaille, the United States leads the world in caffeine consumption, taking in around 970 tons every year. The majority of that caffeine is consumed in the form of coffee. Although too much caffeine has been linked to increased anxiety, insomnia, and restlessness, those cups of Joe actually may have positive health benefits when enjoyed in moderation.

The National Institutes of Health advises that, since coffee beans are loaded with protective compounds, they can help deliver caffeine in healthy ways.

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voicemagazineforwomen.com | April 2018 | 23

Transf o rmed t o Thri v e An E.P.I.C. Practice

™

Consciousness

By Julia Parsell

C

ome walk with me in the woods. Three others are there and we will observe, see, and feel with them. The first person has a very busy mind and is not aware of the wind gently blowing the new buds on the tree, or the robin as it pecks through the pine needles for a worm. The second takes a deep breath, looks up at the sky, smiles, and walks peacefully on the ambling trail. The third person steps onto the trail and feels the heartbeat of trees, hears the bee on the lemon balm 20 feet ahead, and sees every color in the universe on the dew drops clinging to the art piece of an eight-legged beauty.

Same scape, same time, different experiences all attributed to the level of consciousness each person has either developed or stunted. Awake, aware, alert; this is the subtle aspect of our human capacity beyond our body and our mind. It is pure energy in its highest form, and named higher consciousness.

According to quantum physics, consciousness comprises most of the structure of matter. Recognizing the role of our subconscious on our lives is another way to approach consciousness.

The subconscious (below awareness) is the seat of habits and automatic thoughts. It has been trained by environment and

April – Women Helping Women Heal Month Women Helping Women Heal is a month long celebration that takes place every April. It was founded by Nicole Huffman in February 2015. The purpose of this special time is to focus on helping women heal in the following areas: faith, family, finances, and freedom from past sexual abuse.

1. Faith—April 1–7 is set aside for spiritual healing no matter what your beliefs. This is a time to re-connect with your value systems and align your life with what matters most to you. It is also the time to renew the faith you have in yourself to make healthy life choices. If you have never had this type of faith, there is no time like now to gain it.

2. Family—April 8–14 is dedicated to helping women heal relationships with their mothers, aunts, daughters, sisters, female cousins, and sister-friends.

3. Finances—April 15–21 is the time we will use to get our finances in order. During this week, we will focus on providing information and services from female professionals including, 24 | April 2018 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

memories. In other words, it has been conditioned. An effective way to achieve higher consciousness is to change this conditioned programing.

Big ideas seed our consciousness. Just as a plant grows from a tiny seed, over time subtle, higher suggestions will positively affect our lives. The benefits of developing higher consciousness are experiences of greater peace, joy, and unconditional love.

Ways to develop higher consciousness: 1. Reprogram the subconscious: i.e. bad habits, limiting beliefs, negative judgments of self and others, etc.

The use of stronger counter suggestions, frequently repeated.

2. Mindfulness: Stay current with what you are doing.

The second person in the woods was demonstrating mindfulness.

3. Meditation: This includes many forms of being active and still—from dancing alone, biking, walking in the woods, sitting, and lying down.

4. Routines: Good sleep habits, bedtime rituals, and waking disciplines. These can include listening to or reading ideas that help correct negative thinking, or music that keeps your mind quiet and positive.

5. Spiritual dancing: Combines body, mind, and consciousness. This union increases our awareness.

E.P.I.C. = Enlightenments Portal is Consciousness. Please pick up your copy of Voice Magazine for next month’s installment: Paths of intuition.

{

Julia Parsell is a Certified Holistic Health Counselor with an emphasis on the intersection of science and the sacred. She also goes by these names: wife, mother, daughter, grandmother, sister, aunt, niece, cousin, and friend. You may have met her when she owned Java J’s in Bristol and Abingdon (2002–2012). Visit her blog—juliaparsell.com.

but not limited to the following: Financial Planners, Champion Couponers, Tax Professionals, Realtors, Lending Professionals, and Credit Worthy Advisors.

4. Freedom from Abuse—April 22–28 is dedicated to a time to focus on helping women heal from the present pain that is caused by the past hurt of abuse. This is a time to have a special emphasis on healing from sexual abuse in honor and support of April’s Sexual Assault Awareness Month. womenhelpingwomenheal.com

Healing from Abuse SHATTERED BUT NOT BROKEN is an autobiography of being blinded by love at first sight. Author Tawana Campbell shares personal details of falling for and living with a controlling and abusive husband. Although her marriage was filled with overwhelming challenges and heart-wrenching tragedy, Campbell shares her inspiration accounts of finding the strength to survive and thrive.

Available Now From Jancarolpublishing.com Amazon.com Barnesandnoble.com

I Brake For Antiques

By Pam Blair

R

emember the movie Fried Green Tomatoes? There’s a little railroad village called Bell Buckle, Tennessee that looks like the train depot in that movie, with a row of quaint shops and cafés located near the tracks. Established in 1852, Bell Buckle is known for its antiques, country music, and home cooking, and it’s where I was first bitten by the collecting bug when my friend Janet and I stopped there one lazy afternoon. She was visiting from Mississippi, and we wandered into one of the cute antique shops that were filled with things we suddenly couldn’t live without. Janet and I fought over several “who saw it first” items, and she found so many treasures—she was obliged to buy a four-piece set of luggage just to haul it all back home on the airplane.

Maybe I was just responding to an ancient instinct to hunt and gather, but my life as an avid collector was launched by that visit to Bell Buckle, where my quest to find the real McCoy first began. McCoy pottery originated in 1910 in Roseville, Ohio, and it comes in a myriad of deep colors; it’s whimsical and has a distinctive glaze. I bought at least a dozen pieces of McCoy that day and eventually accumulated more than 100 items. Over time, my collecting habit grew to include tole trays, antique glassware, and unusual dishes, among other things, but what brings me the most joy is remembering where I found my favorites and the stories they have to tell.

I discovered one of those pieces while driving on a country road where a flea market was set up on card tables, and I spotted an aqua McCoy vase as soon as I parked the car. The seller was an old man who was proud of his wares, and as I looked over the mishmash of stuff piled on his table, we sized each other up. I casually asked how much he wanted for the vase and he gave it some thought. Then, hands on hips, he declared “That’s McCoy! They don’t make it anymore and I’d have to get two dollars for it!” I knew from studying a book about McCoy pottery that the vase was valued at $35 and up.

I couldn’t pay him fast enough and my hands shook a little bit as I tore the money from my wallet. I was giddy with delight at the bargain I had scored.

Collecting gets in your blood, but it’s not necessarily lucrative. When my husband and I watch PBS’ popular Antiques

Roadshow, he asks me why I’ve never collected anything of real value. Hey, you buy what you like. That’s the rule, although we all want to be like the woman who bought a painting for $45 and took it to the Roadshow, only to learn that another painting was hidden behind it. A rare primitive work painted on wood by a famous artist, it was valued at $250,000. I’ll keep looking for a gem like that, but meanwhile my obsession with McCoy is now mostly under control. I’ve pared my collection down to about 50 favorites that give me pleasure every time I look at them. And that proves that it’s always wise to collect what you love, whether it’s worth anything or not.

These days, I cruise through antique malls and shops because it’s a relaxing hobby that may or may not produce something I want to buy. Simply wandering the aisles and never knowing what’s around the next corner is kind of thrilling, and as Forrest Gump said, “(It’s) like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re gonna get.”

{

Pam Blair is a writer who has authored and edited numerous publications, including LIFE IS PRECIOUS: LESSONS IN HEALTHY LIVING, SURVIVING CANCER, AND RECOVERING FROM GRIEF (Chapel Hill Press). She can be reached at pblair919@aol.com. voicemagazineforwomen.com | April 2018 | 25

Voicemail

Male

By Ken Heath

S

A Lesson in Civility

ocial media is good and bad. We share life’s news, our joys and heartbreaks, our excitement and our frustrations. But it’s also become the platform that we use instead of a much more efficient way to handle a problem.

How many times do we see folks ranting about something that, just a few years ago, we’d simply have talked about in person—and actually resolved! But now, as soon as we get the cheese left off our burger or a sausage biscuit instead of a ham biscuit, we snap a picture and blast away. We don’t mind trashing a business mercilessly, but do we stop and think what we’re actually doing?

First of all, our posts don’t change a thing. Chances are, the place we’re complaining about isn’t following our Facebook feed, so they don’t know there’s a problem. And that means, of course, they can’t even attempt to fix it or make it right.

But it’s also out there, in the ether, forevermore. Anybody at any time can get our post popping up, hurting that business time and again, long after we’re over being aggravated.

Do folks mess things up? Yep. We’re all human. And do folks sometimes refuse to make things right? Unfortunately, yes.

Then may be the time to roll up our sleeves and hit the send button on our rant, explaining that you tried to get things cor-

Not Always As It Seems

By Kelly McFadden “Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.” Matthew 7:12 KJV Interpretation: “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you…”

Matthew 7:12 KJV

A Different Type of Prayer (author unknown): “Heavenly Father, help us remember that the jerk who cut us off in traffic last night is a single mother who worked nine hours that day and was rushing home to cook dinner, help with homework, do the laundry, and spend a few precious moments with her children. Help us to remember that the pierced, tattooed, disinterested young man who can’t make change correctly is a worried, 19-year-old college student, 26 | April 2018 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

rected and were refused. That’s a legitimate gripe that other folks should know.

I try to think, if someone posted this about me, would it be fair? Would it be hurtful? Did they come to me first and I failed to find a way to resolve the issue?

If I don’t want folks doing it to me, why in the world would I want to do it to somebody else?

Let’s talk, communicate. There’s always a manager, supervisor, or boss. Once they’ve had a shot at making things right and failed, then we’ve done at least the minimum decent human beings would do.

We’re better than this. I don’t know a single manager, owner, or boss that won’t hear from a customer and do their best to make reasonable requests right. Nobody is in business to do otherwise. But for goodness’ sake, let’s give it a try before we

hit send. Let’s try being civil again.

{

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.

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

balancing his apprehension over final exams with his fear of not getting his student loans for next semester. Remind us, Lord, that the scary looking fellow, begging for money in the same spot every day is a slave to addictions that we can only imagine in our worst nightmares. Help us to remember that the old couple walking annoyingly slow through the store aisles and blocking our shopping progress are savoring this moment, knowing that, based on the biopsy report she got back last week, this will be the last year that they go shopping together.”

It’s been said, “You never know enough about a situation to truly be angry.” So often we jump to conclusions, instead of looking beyond the situation at the heart of the matter. As children, the Golden Rule was said in our classrooms, teaching us to be fair and nice. As adults, we now teach the next generation this same phrase. Treat others the way you want to be treated. But do you truly act this way? Or is the Golden Rule just a looming phrase and a nice ideal?

The words of Matthew 7:12 are the words of Jesus. These words are building blocks of compassion and kindness. God shows us this kind of love every day. What can you do today to show an act of mercy or goodness? As Christians, it is important to treat others the way Jesus would treat them…you may be the only Jesus someone ever sees. Source: homeword.com

April is National Garlic Month Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken 6 Servings • • • •

2 tablespoons olive oil 1 clove garlic, minced 1 cup dry bread crumbs 2/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese • 1 teaspoon dried basil leaves • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper • 6 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves Instructions 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

2. In a bowl, blend the olive oil and garlic. In a separate bowl, mix the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, basil, and pepper. Dip each chicken breast in the oil mixture, then in the bread crumb mixture. Arrange the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, and top with any remaining bread crumb mixture.

3. Bake 30 minutes in the preheated oven, or until chicken is no longer pink and juices run clear.

Source: Karen; All Recipes

Garlic Kale 4 servings

• 1 bunch kale • 1 tablespoon olive oil • 1 teaspoon minced garlic Instructions 1. Soak kale leaves in a large bowl of water until dirt and sand begin to fall to the bottom, about 2 minutes.

Lift kale from the bowl without drying the leaves and immediately remove and discard stems. Chop the kale leaves into 1-inch pieces.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat; cook and stir garlic until sizzling, about 1 minute. Add kale to the skillet and place a cover over the top.

3. Cook, stirring occasionally with tongs, until kale is bright green and slightly tender, 5 to 7 minutes.

Source: Whirledpeas; All Recipes

Oven Baked Parmesan Fries 4 Servings

• 4 large unpeeled russet potatoes, cut into 1/4-inch strips • 1/4 cup olive oil • 3 cloves garlic, minced • 1/2 teaspoon ground dried thyme • 1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese • 1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt (optional) Instructions 1. Preheat an oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C).

2. Place the potatoes in a mixing bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Season with garlic, thyme, and 1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt. Toss until evenly coated. Lift the fries out of the bowl and spread onto a nonstick baking sheet in a single layer. Save the remaining oil in the bowl.

3. Bake in the preheated oven 30 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through

baking. Return the fries to the bowl with the olive oil, sprinkle with 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese and parsley.

Toss to coat, then spread again onto the baking sheet. Return to the oven, and bake until the Parmesan cheese melts, about 10 minutes. Sprinkle the fries with the remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese and 1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt to serve. Source: Sarah; All Recipes

Roasted Garlic 15 Servings

• 10 medium heads of garlic • 3 tablespoons olive oil Instructions 1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).

2. Arrange heads of garlic on a baking sheet. Sprinkle garlic with olive oil. Bake for 40 minutes to 1 hour, when the garlic is soft and squeezable, it is ready.

Remove, let cool, and serve.

Source: Viviane; All Recipes

voicemagazineforwomen.com | April 2018 | 27

Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

2 large Portobello Mushrooms 1/4 cup Panko Bread Crumbs 4 oz. Goat Cheese 2 Tblsp. Italian Seasoning Wash mushrooms and remove stems. Stuff with goat cheese and top with Italian Seasoning and Panko Bread Crumbs.

Bake at 350 for 25 minutes.

“Kicked Up” Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu

2 pcs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast 4 Tablespoons Olive Oil Buttermilk 6 oz. Thinly Sliced Ham 4 oz. Thinly Sliced Salami 4 pcs Sliced Havarti Cheese 4 oz. Fresh Sliced Mushroom Fresh Spinach or Kale

Wash chicken and pat dry with a paper towel. Place chicken breasts in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and cover with buttermilk. Marinate for 1–2 hours. Remove chicken from marinade and sprinkle with salt and pepper (to taste). Grill the chicken at 375 for about 8 minutes per side. Cool for 10 minutes. Cut the chicken in half.

Place ham, salami, havarti cheese, mushrooms, and spinach on one half of each breast. Put the other half of the chicken on top and place in a baking dish. Cover the baking dish and bake at 350 for 30 minutes. Serves 2 people very large portions!

Eggs Benedict

2 English Muffins 4 Eggs, poached 8 slices Canadian Bacon (pre-cooked) Hollandaise Sauce

1/2 cup Butter 2 Egg Yolks 1 tsp Salt 1/4 cup Lemon Juice 1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper Melt butter on low until it begins to soften. Add egg yolks and wisk together. Stir constantly. Add lemon juice, salt, and cayenne pepper.

Separate the English muffins into 4 pieces and toast them. Heat Canadian Bacon (either in oven or microwave), and place on top of each muffin. Place the poached egg on top of the Canadian Bacon and top with hollandaise sauce. Serve immediately!

Follow Appalachian Living on the Farm with Tracy on Facebook for weekly recipes, cooking tips, and more!

28 | April 2018 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

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.

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ACROSS

DOWN

7. European viper

2. Rice-distilled liquor

10. Finch-like birds

3. Messenger ribonucleic acid

12. Civil rights college organization

4. Wet, muddy ground

13. A person who organizes

5. Have an obligation to

14. Small carnivorous mammal

6. Defunct Chevy convertible truck

15. City in Sweden

7. Deer-like water buffalo

16. Grayish-white

8. Skin lesion

1. Latin American dances

1. “Beastmaster” actor Singer

17. Google certification (abbr.)

9. Amount in each hundred (abbr.)

18. Six (Spanish)

10. Where kids play ball

19. The highest adult male singing voice

11. Roman judge

21. Political action committee

12. One who endures hardship without

22. Exterior part of a home

complaint

27. And, Latin

14. Cover the sword

28. Where pirates hide their bounty

17. “Frozen” actor Josh

33. Six

18. Eyeglasses

34. Cores

20. Metal-bearing material

36. Diego is one

23. Primitive persons

37. __ Carvey, comedian

24. Wild ox

38. Aromatic plant

25. Group of countries (abbr.)

39. Carry with great effort

26. Before

40. One point east of southeast

29. Spanish be

41. Female cattle’s mammary gland

30. Opposite of the beginning

44. Small fries

31. With three uneven sides

45. Optimistic in tough times

32. Gives a permanent post to

48. Make less distinct

35. Actors’ group (abbr.)

49. Surrounds

36. Cavalry sword

50. Cost per mile

38. Gland secretion

51. A local church community

40. Marine invertebrate 41. Hybrid citrus fruit 42. Pairs 43. Used to serve food 44. English broadcasting network 45. Calendar month 46. Comedic actress Gasteyer 47. Company that rings receipts

voicemagazineforwomen.com | April 2018 | 29

Macaroni Kid Tri-Cities and Jan-Carol Publishing Present

Build

Your Bookcase Summer Series

Win a FREE Children’s Book EACH MONTH from Jan-Carol Publishing, INC by subscribing to Macaroni Kid Tri-Cities!

Each month Jan-Carol Publishing will provide a ‘free’ book to one lucky winner. Each month the age range will be different so be sure to enter each month!

The Crayon (W)rapper

by Cheryl Livingston

Visit tricities.macaronikid.com to enter!

(Deadline April 20, 2018)

30 | April 2018 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

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