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From the EDITOR

D

uring the holidays and growing up in rural central Appalachia, my parents’ farm provided us with our ‘real’ Christmas tree. Our Christmas tree was a handpicked cedar tree from the woods on the farm. This was a tradition. I remember Dad, carrying his ax, heading out to the woods in search of the perfect Christmas tree. It could be a self-standing tree or the top of a tree with fuller branches. After cutting it, he would drag it into the yard and trim and shape it into the perfect fit for the corner space in our living room. The tree’s fragrance of cedar and freshness filled the house for days.

After placing those big indoor or outdoor lights on the tree, it came to life with colorful, shiny aluminum-like rope wrapped around it and with the carefully placed red and green ball ornaments. But most important was the last decorative accent to be placed on the tree. It was the silver tinsel icicles that came in a small box. The tinsel strands were tossed either individually or by the handful onto the tree. With the tinsel in place, our tree glowed with lights and glistened with beauty! It was a tradition–our family tradition–and I miss it.

Family traditions are special. Creating traditions that are carried over year to year and passed down to generations is a great way to unite families. These days families are smaller and yet larger in extended families. From all of us, our extended Jan-Carol Publishing family wishes you and yours a very Happy Holiday, and a very Merry Christmas! Start a tradition. Make this December one to remember.

I want to say "thank you" to all of you–fans, supporters, readers, advertisers, authors, and our contributing writers. We could not be here without all of you! Thank you!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to All! Thought of the Month: "Your feelings are signals of the truths inside of you. They’re the language of your soul, and the angels want you to listen to them." Doreen Virtue, Ph.D and Author Verse of the Month: Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife: And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name Jesus. Matthew 23–25 KJV Please ‘like’ and ‘share’ Voice Magazine for Women, Modern Day Appalachian Woman—Appalachian Living on Facebook and follow us on Twitter!

Janie C. Jessee, Editor

“every story needs a book”

voicemagazineforwomen.com • jancarolpublishing.com Serving Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia!

PUBLISHER Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc PO Box 701 Johnson City, TN 37605 EDITOR Janie C Jessee, 423.502.6246 editor@voicemagazineforwomen.com publisher@jancarolpublishing.com DECEMBER CONTRIBUTING WRITERS April Hensley Ken Heath

Nancy Binder Pam Blair Tracy Fletcher McGlothlin

Cindy Sproles Martha McGlothlin

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 Kim Hedrick - Sales Associate kim@voicemagazineforwomen.com GRAPHICS/PRODUCTION Tara Sizemore - Senior Graphics Designer tara@voicemagazineforwomen.com graphics@jancarolpublishing.com DISTRIBUTION Karen Corder Staff JCP Internships Available PUBLISHED BY JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC. (Volume 14, Issue 12) 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. © 2017 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.

4 | December 2017 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

December 2017 | Volume 14 | Issue 12

Reduce – Reuse – Recycle – AND REFRESH Christmas!

December Hot Hunk Hunt!

The November “Hot Hunk” was Leonardo DiCaprio on page 12.

Peppermint the Elf

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

Zip Code:

Where did I pick up my copy of Voice Magazine?

Crystal Wells Abingdon, VA

as the winner in the November Hot Hunk Hunt!

Thanks to ALL for sending in your entry!

or e-mail: hothunk@voicemagazineforwomen.com Deadline for submission is December 20, 2017.

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.

Nancy Binder 14

Jan-Carol Publishing New Releases 16

Apex Tile Services 19

DIY Christmas Crafts Savannah Bailey 8

Christmas Card Scrapbook Martha McGlothlin 9

Mail this submission form to: Voice Magazine P.O. Box 701 Johnson City, TN 37605

Congratulations to:

5 Must-Have Boots 7

HOT HUNK LOCATION:

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.

6

African Safari

VoiceMALE Ken Heath 10

The Gift of No Gifts Cindy Sproles 20

Health Benefits of Vinegar 21

Tips for Eating Healthy During the Holidays 22

YWCA Seeking Nominations for 27th Annual Tribute to Women Awards

TCH A M T FEC

T PIZ

CRAF

ER—

D BE ZA AN

A PER

FLIP THIS ISSUE! Modern Day

11

APPALACHIAN WOMAN APPALACHIAN LIVING

Christmas Wish List Pam Blair 12

New Year, Fresh Start!

13

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Reduce – Reuse – Recycle –

W

AND REFRESH Christmas!

e have all heard that "one man’s trash is another man’s treasure." This can be true in shopping for the perfect Christmas gift. Have you received something that seemed to be the perfect gift, but is still waiting to be used? Re-gift?

Yes! Re-gifting makes perfect sense. If you receive something you really don't need, look for ways you can reuse this gift by passing it on to someone who can use it. Of course, re-gifting needs to be done with care so you do not offend the original giver, but keeping a gift you don't need is wasteful.

Here are helpful questions in re-gifting: • • • •

Is it reusable?

Is it in good condition?

Will someone want it? Don't just get rid of your junk.

Do you remember who gave it to you so that you don't give it back to them?

• Is it a personal one-of-a-kind item that the original gifter may recognize?

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Rethink about your wrapping paper and holiday cards.

Use paper bags or newspaper to wrap your gift and then use a reusable ribbon, bow, or beads to decorate it. Items such as old maps, comics, posters, and corlorful fabric can be used as wrapping paper. You can even reuse holiday cards to make boxes, or create new cards or gift tags by cutting the picture off.

Look for locally made gifts. Many gifts in today's marketplace come from halfway around the world, and the impact of transportation contributes significantly to greenhouse emissions and global warming. Local craft fairs and artisan shops are a good source for gifts that come without the added costs of transportation. Gifts made locally often have a story which goes with the gift, since the artisan and the origin of the gift are known. And many items are handcrafted from recycled sources.

On a budget? Shop at your favorite charity thrift shop or consignment shop. Many items can be found with new tags and nearly new items. This is the perfect way to give ‘new’ life and purpose to good, used items.

Have a Very Merry ‘repurposed’ Christmas!

Merry Christmas from our home to yours!

Find unique gifts for everyone on your list 1001 N. Eastman Rd. Kingsport, TN 423-246-HOME (4663) Mon–Sat 10am–6pm decorexchangekingsport.com consign@decorexchangekingsport.com

6 | December 2017 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

5 Must-Have Boots The Stacked Bootie Every woman absolutely needs a pair of stacked booties in her closet.

Whether it's black or brown, these are best in staple colors so you can wear them with just about any look. Make sure to invest in a pair with a solid, thick heel—the more comfortable they are the better. You want to be able to wear them out and about for hours on end. (Nandita Cutout Bootie by Lucky Brand)

The Moto Boot For casual but still stylish everyday wear, nothing beats a good moto boot. These are perfect for tromping around town when you have a ton of errands to run in a short amount of time. (Impelled Moto Boot by Steve Madden)

The Dressy Bootie Another boot staple is a dressy, dainty bootie that's not made for walkin'. These are for special occasions when you won't be walking that much: a nice dinner or a drinks date. (Vatena Bootie by Vince Camuto)

The Riding Boot For our purposes, the Riding Boot can be defined as any boot that hits at the knee or higher. With few exceptions, you probably don't want these in your closet to actually go hop on a horse, so the heel height is totally up to you. The 1-inch stacked heel is more the classic riding boot. (Melissa Stud Knee High Boot by Frye)

The Pop of Color Select a fun pair of boots with a pop of color. What color is your preference but make it something that will up the "wow" factor of your outfit instantly. They can be flat, have a stacked heel, or anything in between. (Purple Argyle Bootie

by Nine West) (Source: stylecaster.com)

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voicemagazineforwomen.com | December 2017 | 7

DIY

C

Christmas Crafts

By Savannah Bailey

hristmas crafting is by far the best genre of DIY projects.

There is nothing quite like the face family members make when they receive a handmade gift, or like hearing your friends gush over the beautiful handmade ornaments on your tree.

This year, I noticed I had a lot of odds and ends lying around my craft room— pieces left over from the handmade gifts of Christmases past. Shortly after this realization, I found myself in the predicament of having too few ornaments for my new, much bigger Christmas tree. So, I decided to put those left overs to good use and make several new pieces to decorate my tree’s branches.

To start, I picked up a set of empty, glass ornament balls at the craft store. Then I looked to Pinterest to gather some inspiration. I decided on three ideas to bring some extra life to my tree and to yours.

1. The Gumball Machine: Supplies: A miniature ceramic pot (1/2 inch), red paint and a paintbrush, rainbow sprinkles, and a hot glue gun.

Paint the ceramic pot and the top, hook piece of a glass ornament red. Hot glue the ornament to the bottom of the pot, fill the ornament with sprinkles, and put the hook piece back on.

2. Mini Tree Ornament: Supplies: Fake snow, a miniature Christmas tree, and a hot glue gun (optional: modge podge and a spray sealant).

Fill a glass ornament with fake snow or paint the ornament with modge podge and sprinkle it with snow instead. (If putting snow on the outside, spray with a sealant after the modge podge dries.)

Cover the base of the fake tree with hot glue and hold on top of the glass ornament until dry. For this one, I made one of each variation and wrapped my hook around the “trunk” of my miniature tree.

3. Message in a Bottle:

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Supplies: Sand or pebbles, miniature glass bottle and cork, blue glass paint, and an old book.

Fill a glass ornament with sand or pebbles, then tear out and roll or fold a strip of a page from the book. Slide the page down into the bottle and put the cork in it before dropping it into the ornament. Paint the outside of the ornament with blue waves for an even more beachy feel.

You can make several of each of these for a whole set, or create some from your own ideas! They make great gifts for yourself or for others.

Christmas Card Scrapbook

By Martha McGlothlin

Ever wonder what to do with all the adorable photo Christmas cards you receive every year? I can't bear to throw away friends' & family's cards, also because I know how much time and effort (not to mention cash) is spent on them. (I will admit though...I don't always keep the cards that don't have photos (sorry!) which is down to only about 10% of them.) And I love to look back and see how much kids have changed, new babies added (and in some cases new spouses!). I've been saving them for almost 20 years and there are some good ones in my stash! The cards themselves have gotten way better too, and easier. Remember when you'd have to print the photos and stick them into photo cards yourself? That was a project of gigantic proportions that would take me days!

I made a cute printable (go to my website www.marthajane.net and you can print it out—preferably on card stock), to take to Office Depot and have laminated and use as a cover for a little scrapbook for all of my cards! It's a really quick and easy project and I'll show you how to do it below.

What you'll need: • • • •

White card stock paper for the front cover Piece of card stock paper for back cover (I used green) 2 large book rings (found at Office Depot) Hole punch (I used 2 holes of a 3-hole punch, but a single-hole punch works too)

Take the front and back covers to Office Depot and ask them to laminate them (this is very inexpensive). Trim both down with scissors to the size of the red area of the front cover printable. Stack all your Christmas cards in the order you want them to appear in the little book, then punch two holes in each. Depending on the shape and size of the card, they will be turned different ways. This is okay because in the end it makes the book look more interesting!

Punch two holes in the front and back covers. Insert the rings into all the cards and covers and you're done! Store it with your other Christmas decorations.

Mine turned out to be very colorful and I love that it's so portable and doesn't take up much space.

Tune in next year to see if Aunt Bertha is still wearing her tacky Christmas sweater! Merry Christmas and Happy Organizing!

{

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She also writes a blog at www.marthajane.net voicemagazineforwomen.com | December 2017 | 9

Voicemail

Male

By Ken Heath

I

t was one of those spur of the moment things, something you do without thinking.

In this season of tinsel and ribbons, holiday hustle and bustle, scurrying to find the “perfect gift” for the special folks in our lives, I’m a bit embarrassed to admit I too often get too tied up in the season to remember the reason.

We’d traveled to Nashville for a quick working vacation. My angel and I love the Grand Ole Opry, I perhaps a little more than she, but she indulges my crazy ideas and what’s been called “military operation scheduling.”

Every detail is planned in advance, every moment allocated for the experience. On Thursday, we slept in a bit.

Even I caught a few extra winks, instead of rising at my usual 5 am; I slept til after daybreak. I caught up on some reading, quiet as I could be, to allow her to get some rest on our “vacation.”

We drove away from the hotel, headed to West Nashville on Highway 100, to the legendary Loveless Cafe for brunch. If you haven’t been to the Loveless, you’re missing a treat! Good ol’ southern cooking topped with fine southern hospitality in a business that’s been around since 1951. The building and grounds reminded me of the Mast General Store complex in Valle Crucis. In short–my kinda place.

We ordered fried chicken with fried green tomatoes; I added creamed corn and one of their famous country ham biscuits, and a tanker of sweet tea to wash it down.

The complimentary plate of homemade biscuits and jelly came first, and it being way past my breakfast time, they were met with a welcome. It wasn’t long before our feast arrived. After offering blessing, we flat tore into the Tennessee Yard Bird. What a delicious meal! Loveless never disappoints.

When I finally resurfaced from my nose being buried in my plate, I noticed a gentleman seated across the room.

He stood out for two reasons–he was alone in a crowded diner full of tables of families and friends, and he was in uniform. I could tell by the dress blues he was an enlisted man, an E-6 staff sergeant in our US Army. His left chest 10 | December 2017 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

was covered in ribbons, and I anticipated he’d soon be joined by someone else. But as the clatter of the patrons continued, I watched as he was served a single meal.

Without hesitation, I called our waiter over. I asked if the soldier was dining alone. He said he thought his wife was with him, so we didn’t think much more about it. A few minutes later, the waiter confirmed he was dining alone.

“Could you please do me a favor,” I asked. “Bring me his check. I’m buying his lunch. But I don’t want him to know it until we’ve gone.” The waiter happily obliged. We cashed out, and I wrote eight simple words on his paid tab–“Thank you for your service. God bless America.” As we were shuffling to leave, a group of older ladies stopped my wife. They, too, had planned to buy the soldier’s lunch.

They were all military families, and understood how much such a gesture means. And again, we had an opportunity to thank those who love our nation for their loved ones’ service–four in one day! The lady was making her way over to speak to the soldier, and we made our hasty retreat.

I’d gotten my reward. To thank someone who does so much for this great nation by paying for a country dinner is far too inexpensive for me. It’s a debt I could never repay. But I thank God for the freedom to be able to do so. And again, I thank this soldier, and a table full of military wives of The Greatest Generation, for defending those freedoms through the ages.

While we were hurrying through life, God found a way to grab my attention, to remind me of what’s important. He has a way of doing that. This time, it was in the form of a lonely diner in uniform. God bless the United States of America, and may He keep all those who protect and defend her safe from harm. As we celebrate Christmas, let’s especially keep those brave men and women in our prayers.

{

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

“Virginia's Most Awarded DJ Service”

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YWCA Seeking Nominations for 27th Annual Tribute to Women Awards

Y

WCA Bristol is now accepting nominations for YW Tribute to Women, an awards program that recognizes outstanding women in the Tri-Cities region.

Women may be nominated by an organization, business, or a community group for this prestigious award in one of three categories: Nurture, Empower, and Transform.

Candidates should be leaders who have experienced significant growth and/or achievement in their areas of expertise.

Judges residing out of the states of Tennessee and Virginia will select three exemplary recipients in each category, and these award recipients will be honored at an awards banquet on Thursday, May 10, 2018. “Tribute to Women is an excellent opportunity to celebrate employees or volunteers who have made significant contributions in the workplace or community,” said Waugh.

Nomination forms are available online at www. ywcabristol.org and should be mailed to YWCA Bristol at 106 State Street, Bristol, TN 37620 or emailed to c_king@ ywcabristol.org by February 15, 2018. Forms are also available for pick-up at the YWCA front desk.

The awards banquet will be held on Thursday, May 10th at the Bristol Train Station. For more information, please contact Courtney King at or call 423.968.9444.

Welcome Newcomers, to East Tennessee!

You're gonna love your new hometown...

The NEWCOMERS WELCOME SERVICE is here to show you around the area via many merchants and also introduce you to our history and cultural areas through many local restaurants, attractions, and much more!

Call 423.202.1679

for your free in-home visit and pathway to making new friends through our newcomers club.

5 Quick Tips in keeping Safe for the Holidays 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Keep your travel plans offline. If you are planning to travel during the holiday season, be sure to keep your travel plans off your social media networks.

Notify a neighbor. Let your trusted neighbor know that you will be out of town and to keep an eye on things for you.

Hide any Christmas gifts. Thieves want to check out what’s under the tree!

Watch your Christmas lights. It is best to use a timer to have the lights on and off.

Inspect the furnace and the chimney. Always hire a professional to inspect before the cold weather begins. voicemagazineforwomen.com | December 2017 | 11

By Pam Blair

M

any years ago, I opened a fortune cookie and found this message: “What you need is what you have.” I’ve kept it all these years because the message always makes me stop and think about the difference between needs and wants. Do I really need this thing or do I just want it? It’s something I think about even more when the holiday season is upon us, because giving and receiving gifts is such a big part of celebrating Christmas.

This year, I asked family and friends to tell me what gifts they would value receiving the most and as each of them responded, a common theme began to emerge. They didn't want pricey gifts or things they would seldom use.

Through their responses, I learned that we all value things that are not monetary yet have great worth that is beyond measure.

•

•

•

What's on Your Christmas Wish List?

• Cherished traditions. Instead of buying every gift on our children’s wish lists, share the magic of Christmas with them by creating family traditions.

When I was a little girl, Dad always read us the poem “Twas the Night before Christmas” while we sipped on a Shirley Temple cocktail (7-Up with a cherry in it).

• Memories. A framed photograph from a special time with family and friends makes a lasting gift that doesn't cost much and is thoughtful as well.

Add a little note with it that says, "Remember when?" It's guaranteed to bring lasting smiles to your family or friends.

• Treasured friendships. Value your closest friends and let them know you care, for they are like an extension of our families with their unconditional, emotional support and companionship.

• Embracing Simplicity. Sometimes the least expensive gift is the one that ends up being the most loved. Make something crafted, cooked, or baked 12 | December 2017 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

•

and wrap it with a pretty bow. It will be more appreciated than almost anything you could give.

One long distance friend and I send each other re-purposed Christmas cards that we use as gift tags.

Find a way to pay it forward. See that cute young family or sweet older couple dining in a restaurant? My brother and his wife pay for someone’s meal anonymously and experience the joy of giving unexpectedly. Charitable donations peak at this time of the year and there are plenty of ways to give back and help others in need.

A more peaceful world. You can’t have a Christmas list without including this one. It’s enduring, as we all wish for peace in a world that is increasingly full of turmoil and pain. Focusing on peaceful moments in times of great stress can ease the anxiety of the unknown.

Health and wellness. Don't we all wish for good health for ourselves and those we care about? Seek to maintain a healthy balance all year long. Think of your health like your individual bank account where a visit to the gym or taking a walk equals one deposit in that account. It all adds up and you don’t have to wait until after the New Year to start.

Rechargeable batteries. This is white noise for the soul, where you block out the long list of holiday demands by recharging your batteries – just for a moment or two. Carve out some personal "white space" so you can regroup and take better care of yourself and others.

Remember that what you need could be what you have. As I looked at the wish lists of my family and friends, I realized we don’t have to search high and low for that elusive perfect gift. Those things that give us the greatest satisfaction might actually be right at hand. As the Good Witch Glinda told Dorothy in the movie Wizard of Oz, “You’ve had the power all along.”

{

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.

ons luti r! o s e r ea lthy wY Hea the Ne for

Many people see the dawn of a new year as the perfect time to implement changes that they hope will have positive impacts on their lives in the year ahead. Here are few ‘doable’ goals for the New Year!

Read more. Many adults wish they had more time to read, but busy schedules filled with commitments to work and family can make it hard to pick up a book every day. However, in an analysis of 12 years of data from the University of Michigan’s Health and Retirement Study, researchers at the Yale School of Public Health found that people who read books for as little as 30 minutes a day over several years lived an average of two years longer than people who did not read at all.

Sleep more. More time to sleep might seem like an unattainable goal for many men and women.

But the National Heart, Lung, SEVEN and Blood Institute notes that TO EIGHT HOURS ongoing sleep deficiency can increase a person’s risk for chronic health problems, including heart disease, kidney disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and stroke. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends adults age 18 and older get between seven and eight hours of sleep per night.

Turn off your devices. As recently as 15 years ago, many adults made it through their days without smartphones, tablets, e-readers, and other devices that are so prevalent today. While it might seem impossible to live without such devices in the 21st century, turning them off can

have profound impacts on people's quality of life. A 2013 survey of more than 1,000 people conducted by the resilience platform meQuilibrium found that 73 percent of respondents felt their devices contributed to stress in their lives. The American Psychological Association notes that stress can negatively affect the musculoskeletal system, the respiratory system and the nervous system and potentially increase a person’s risk for heart disease and gastrointestinal problems.

Work less. Working fewer hours may help many professionals cut back on their stress, as the APA notes that 65 percent of Americans cited work as their primary source of stress. But working fewer hours may also make men and women more productive.

A recent experiment study funded by the Swedish government ultimately concluded that productivity can increase with fewer hours worked.

Committing to healthy New Year’s resolutions can have profound and unexpected results that can greatly improve one’s quality of life.

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voicemagazineforwomen.com | December 2017 | 13

African Safari 2017 View from helicopter of Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls and Zambia Part 2

L

Article and Photographs by Nancy Binder

ast month, I told you about the first part of our safari in Botswana and Zimbabwe. This month it is on to Victoria Falls. On the Zimbabwean side, we walked the mile long path which is across from the falls. We didn’t get as wet this time as the water wasn’t quite as high as the last time I visited, but there was still plenty of water to live up to its native name Mosi oa Tunya, “the smoke that thunders.” The water falls with such force and depth that it bounces back up as mist and “rains” back down. It is very loud. People were bungee jumping off the bridge over the gorge held only by their ankles, not for me! After

14 | December 2017 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

crossing the border into Zambia, I took my first ever helicopter flight with two of my friends over Victoria Falls.

What a sight to behold! You really get the full impact of how large the falls are, and how big the gorge is, from the air. It is narrow and deep with lots of switchbacks. An amazing sight!

After one night in Livingstone, Zambia, it was on to Mfuwe, Zambia, to South Luangwa National Park. It took two flights to get there on regularly scheduled airlines, changing planes in the capital city of Lusaka. The 45 minute drive to Mfuwe Lodge in the National Park allowed us to see villagers walking home from Bible studies, or from a soccer game, or visiting outdoors with friends. The vast majority of people walk everywhere; few have bicycles and even fewer have motorized transportation. At the lodge we settled into our chalets, and every night lions were heard warning others away from their territory. continued on next page

One morning about 4 am the baboons started barking (yes they bark), because walking under the trees on the edge of the property were four lions. We also had a spotted bushneck snake in the eaves of our chalet above where we sat on the balcony. Yikes! On a morning game drive a hyena had taken an impala kill away from a leopard and was dragging it away with the leopard following closely behind.

There were almost a dozen vultures hanging around and they would drop down to get a morsel when the hyena set the kill down to rest. Very exciting, but I felt bad for the leopard. He had done all of the work and the hyena just stole it away.

That evening on our game drive we came upon a large male lion sleeping near the river. He lifted his head to look at us and then promptly went back to sleep. We saw a few wild dogs and gave chase with them, a couple more wild dogs joined them. About a quarter mile down the road, another wild dog had brought down an impala and he had called the others to join him. The six of them started to devour the kill when a leopard tried to approach hoping for a free meal. The dogs were having none of that and chased him up a tree. After a few minutes, the leopard came down and approached again, but was again chased up a tree where he stayed. A few minutes later, a second leopard showed up which is unusual as they are solitary animals.

He too was chased off. The dogs had almost cleaned up the kill when one of them went to get the pups which appeared to be almost grown. The wild dogs regurgitated food for the pups and after the pups ate, one of the adults brought them to the kill where they began to gnaw on the carcass, learning to eat. As if that wasn’t enough excitement for one evening, a puff adder (poisonous snake) crossed in front of our vehicle, we watched a genet looking for prey, and then came upon three lions lying on the side of the road. Wow, what an evening!

The next day our vehicle was surrounded by elephants, which is scary and awesome. We saw more elephants this year in South Luangwa Park than two years ago, and there were lots of babies. At one point we saw two very young elephants napping against a tree trunk while their mothers were standing guard in front of them. One afternoon we had a lecture and slideshow about lions. Two of the male lions had been named Ginger and Garlic by the Mfuwe Lodge staff. The lions spent a lot of time near the lodge but hadn’t been seen in several weeks. On the evening game drive, the two aforementioned lions crossed the track in front of us. More excitement.

Our trip home was long (4 flights and 40+ hours) but uneventful. It was a great trip and we are looking forward to another safari next year. As my friend and safari buddy Mary says, it is hard to get “out of Africa.” And that is so true.

Hyena stealing kill from leopard

Sleepy male lion

Napping baby elephants with moms standing guard

{

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 | December 2017 | 15

Where Lady Slippers Grow

OUT NOW “Daddy’s Apple Tree is a large collection of poems— memories written as a tribute to John L. Rhodes, Sr., the poet’s father and a victim of Dementia. For the reader who appreciates poetry that speaks to the heart, this book is it.”

Written by Dale P. Rhodes, Sr.

— Betty Kossick, writer, journalist, poet

Daddy's Apple Tree is Dale’s first book of poetry. Dale’s poetry is uniquely lucid and original. He offers to the reader an opportunity to feel his sensitivity and thoughts, as he addresses a wide range of subjects such as love and romance, his childhood, family, and growing up in the family-oriented community of Lignum, within Culpeper, Virginia. He presents to you his down-home spun humor; and his adages about the quirks of everyday life with history and fiction juxtaposed within his works.

A COLLECTION OF POETRY

Daddy's Apple Tree is Dale’s first book of poetry. Dale’s poetry is uniquely lucid and original. He offers to the reader an opportunity to feel his sensitivity and thoughts, as he addresses a wide range of subjects such as love and romance, his childhood, family, and growing up in the family-oriented community of Lignum, within Culpeper, Virginia. He presents to you his down-home spun humor; and his adages about the quirks of everyday life with history and fiction juxtaposed within his works.

He began writing as a junior in high school. After high school, working and starting a family took center stage of his life. He wrote sparingly during the next ten years. The death of his father stirred emotions inside of him that soon found their way onto paper. His family and friends enjoyed his poetry about his father, relatives, and his ability to project a vivid picture of growing up in Culpeper and encouraged him to continue writing.

When you open the cover of this book and look inside, you will feel the pain of losing a loved one; and you will come face to face with God's Love, Protection, and Grace. You will hear Dale’s laughter; you will see through his eyes as he encounters nature. His orations to romace and of love will carry you away to that special someone who resides within your heart.

The Madison McKenzie Files (Book 2) Written by Bev Freeman

DADDY’S APPLE TREE

Daddy's Apple Tree

DADDY’S APPLE TREE

Madison helps Rick investigate a missing hiker, has visions while alone with a corps, and fear of physic ability causes secrecy. After Sheriff Perry’s injury, Cold Creek votes Madison as their sheriff. She demonstrates a knack for the job, exposing her to dangers beyond imagination, and jealousy becomes her newest challenge.

A COLLECTION OF POETRY

Petals of Distinction

DALE P. RHODES, SR. was born in Culpeper, Virginia. He was

U.S. $10.00 • CAN $12.30 COPYRIGHT 2017 JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC JANCAROLPUBLISHING.COM

WORD: True Personal Experiences from the Silent World of Animals: 2

WITHOUT A WORD: BOOK 2

DALE P. RHODES, SR.

educated through the Culpeper public school system and was raised in Lignum, Virginia. While recognized for many literary writing accomplishments, Dale considers his two sons his greatest achievement in life.

A

t words, yet in sions and body unicate among d of man. This ores the silent nal experiences mestic, wild and

NEW RELEASES

WITHOUT

WORD:

“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.

Written by Rosie Hartwig-Benson DALE P. RHODES, SR.

A heart-rending journey of epic proportion into the mind, body, and soul of Rosie: a woman stricken with a silent disease paralyzing her stomach. She leads you along an intimate path through complexities that push her across the pain barrier; stripping her of splendor, but never her will to keep fighting.

Without a Word: True Personal Experiences from the Silent World of Animals • Book 2 Written by Pauline E. Petsel

Pauline E. Petsel

Animals work from a silent world without words, yet in their own way, using actions, visual expressions and body language, they are able to blend and communicate among their own world and with the verbal world of man. This collection of stories and photographs explores the silent world of animals through the author’s personal experiences and a lifetime of living with a variety of domestic, wild and exotic animals.

Snooping Can Be Uncomfortable Written by Linda Hudson Hoagland

Divorce is a tough subject for a teenager, but add a dose of murder, and her life becomes a real mess. Lindsay and kids make it their job to help her defend her parents and prevent the dissolution of her family.

COMING SOON Pierre the Peacock

Written by Jocelyn M. Lacey Illustrated by Teresa Wilkerson Come with us as we meet Pierre, a peacock who thinks that he will get friends just from his pretty looks. When he meets Jerry, a colorblind little boy, he teaches Pierre that what matters is how you treat people, not what you look like. A lesson for all of us!

Come with us as we meet Pierre, a peacock who thinks that he will get friends just from his pretty looks. When he meets Jerry, a colorblind little boy, he teaches Pierre that what matters is how you treat people, not what you look like. A lesson for all of us!

Jocelyn Mooneyhan Lacey was inspired to write about a peacock after one showed up at her back door. A native of Johnson City, TN, and after moves up and down the east coast, she now lives in New Jersey for the time being, with her husband, two dogs, a cat, and 3 fish. You can find her on Instagram at Hapigirl10.

U.S. $10.00 CAN $12.50

Written by

Jocelyn M. Lacey Ilustrated by

Teresa Wilkerson

JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC JANCAROLPUBLISHING.COM

The Shadow Dogs Written by Peggy McLain

Piddle Diddle, The Widdle Penguin, and the Texas Longhorns Written by Wayne A. Major and Co-Author Ralphine Major Illustrated by Teresa Wilkerson

Come and join Piddle Diddle, the Widdle Penguin, and her family as they vacation at a dude ranch and help cowboys on a cattle drive of Texas Longhorns!

16 | December 2017 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

From across the ocean to the Carolina Mountains comes a boy and his faithful yellow dog. Set in the late 1700s, join John, and his beloved Cheraw Indian friends, as he untangles a web of lies and deceit in his attempt to find the truth about his father's death.

As John's adventure unfolds, watch him struggle with his inner demons, fight in the Battle of Kings Mountain, and discover his mystical connections to The Shadow Dogs. John's story is one of both joy and heartbreak that you'll never want to end.

Rainbow Bridge Written by Rita Rumgay

Gem is mourning her grandmother and baby boy, losing one to cancer and the baby by the hands of her abusive husband. She was raised by her grandmother when her hippie mother abandoned her, she never knew her father. Her only desire is to love and be loved. Her best friend, Carolyn from high school, has comforted her through these tragedies. As well as her deceased grandmother, whom Gem feels is still with her, making her laugh, and still teaching her. Gem struggles to begin her life, again. Landing a new job, she bonds with a special needs child. After a terrorist attack occurs, she loses another chance at happiness. Bent but not broken, she recovers to discover a genuine love and enough strength within herself to endure. As long kept secrets of the grandmother are revealed, Gem finds her place, and a family. Her past and her future become reconciled, in heaven and on earth.

Macaroni Kid Tri-Cities and Jan-Carol Publishing Present

“every story needs a book”

AUTHORS on the ROAD

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!

3 Free Books!

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 Friday, December 1, 10 am – 5 pm.

Book Signing, Christmas at the Mall, Claypool Hill Mall, Richlands, VA Saturday, December 2, 9 am – 3 pm, Book Signing, Price’s Fork Craft Show, Blacksburg, VA Monday, December 4, Board Meeting, Tazewell County Habitat for Humanity, Tazewell, VA Wednesday, December 6, 2 pm – 4 pm, Teaching Creative Writing Class, SWCC, King Community Center, Richlands, VA

(Deadline December 20, 2017)

Saturday, December 2, 9 am – 1 pm Greendale Buddies Christmas Show Greendale Elementary School Abingdon, VA

Saturday, December 16, 11 am – 4 pm, Book Signing, Piccadilley, Fort Henry Drive, Kingsport, TN

Friday, December 8, 10 am – 2 pm Over 50 Expo, Southwest Higher Education Center, Abingdon, VA

Alex Campbell – Ten Lessons That Will Get You Fired: But You Must Teach Immediately

Mary Edwards-Olson – When the Sun Shines Through

Thursday, December 7, 8 am – 11 am, Bartleby Program Open House, Tennessee Center for Applied Technology, Elizabethton, TN Wayne and Ralphine Major – Piddle Diddle's Lost Hat; Piddle Diddle, the Widdle Penguin, Goes to Hawaii; and Piddle Diddle, the Widdle Penguin, and the Texas Longhorns; plus Moondance of the Fireflies by Tamela Marie Wheeler and Little Teddy's Big Adventures by Teresa Wilkerson

Friday, December 8, 9 am – 4 pm, Books Signing, Over 50 Expo, Higher Ed Center, Abingdon, VA Saturday, December 9, 9 am – 2 pm, Graham High School Project Graduation Holiday Bazaar, Bluefield, VA

December 17, 12:30 pm – 8p m, Turn Barnes and Noble Purple to raise Alzheimer's awareness, Book Signing, Debut photo campaign to end Alzheimer's Barnes and Noble 3030 Franklin Terrace Dr., Johnson City, TN Edwards-Olson will be speaking about The Elizabeth Edwards Grant for Hope and how it's helping our local community fight Alzheimer's. Come get a picture with Santa too, he will be wearing his purple suit because he wands to end Alzheimer's too!!

Sunday, December 3, 2:30 pm, Piddle Diddle, the Widdle Penguin, Float Gibbs Ruritan Christmas Parade from Gibbs High School (7628 Tazewell Pike) to Midway IGA (7345 Tazewell Pike) Corryton, TN 37721 Monday, December 4, 2017, 10:30 am, Presentation and Book Signing, Ossoli Circle Clubhouse 2511 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919

Thursday, December 7, 11:30 am –1:30 pm. Meeting, Lost State Writers Guild, Shoney’s at Exit 5, Bristol, VA

Visit tricities.macaronikid.com to enter!

Wednesday, December 13, 2 pm – 4 pm, Teaching Creative Writing Class, SWCC, King Community Center, Richlands, VA

Victoria Fletcher – Fletcher’s Fables and Fletcher’s Fables Too

Watch JCP Author Bev Freeman on Daytime Tri-Cities and hear more about her book, Where Lady Slippers Grow, on Tuesday, December 12 at 10 am on WJHL-TV.

Ask the Book Editor Q:

Judi Light Hopson

Judi, I want to write a humorous novel about my high school dating years. But, what if the guys recognize themselves?! I don't want to embarrass anyone, but I have to rely on real stories to make it work. Any suggestions? –Patti L., Tampa

A:

Patti, just twist the facts a little. For example, if you dated a quarterback who was a cheapskate, change him to a guy from another city who played basketball. Also, never write in a mean-spirited way—because these guys were basically just kids! –Judi Light Hopson

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Let’s discuss how to make your dream a reality! voicemagazineforwomen.com | December 2017 | 17

Storyteller • Photographer • Author

Pauline E. Petsel Every other week our authors on our JCP Authors Facebook Forum participate in a “Short-Short Story” Writing Prompt Contest for the chance to win a day of social media promotion.

For our 10th prompt we offered a very special prize—the chance to be published in Voice Magazine! Read our 10th prompt and the winning submission from author April Ford Hensley.

Writing Prompt: "It makes me seem whimsical."

"Your definition of whimsical is stunningly different from my definition of whimsical."

These lines were said by two different characters. Write no more than 250 words, no less than 200 words, about these quotes. You do NOT have to include the quotes in your story or word count, but continue the conversation. Who is speaking and what about?

Books Available

Jancarolpublishing.com Amazon.com • Barnesandnoble.com

April Ford Hensley: “Tallulah! We are going to be late to the Christmas Eve service!” I pounded on her bedroom door.

“I’m coming Mary! Hold your horses!”

Tallulah had been late to everything except our birth 82 years ago. She was the first-born. We were identical twins in looks but opposites in many ways. It was one of the reasons I adored her.

I was reminded of our extreme differences as I turned towards the click of her door.

“Tallulah Belle! No! Just no!”

“What?” She grinned merrily.

“You cannot wear that hat!” Was that a pear? And a bird?

“Why not? It makes me seem whimsical.” Tallulah adjusted the extra wide brim of the crimson felt covering her halo of hair.

“Your definition of whimsical is stunningly different from my definition of whimsical.”

Tallulah huffed. “It’s for someone special.”

There was no time to debate her. We had less than 15 minutes to get to the church. We rushed to my compact and peeled out of the drive. When I swung a hard left at the intersection, Tallulah’s hat knocked me sideways.

We made it with moments to spare. Scanning the crowd, Tallulah spotted a crying baby chewing his soggy fingers. When he saw Tallulah, his face broke into a gurgling grin. Beaming, Tallulah lifted her great-grandson as he raised his arms to her. Tallulah’s hat worked its magic on him. He spent the entire evening cooing peacefully, staring at it in innocent wonder.

18 | December 2017 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Believe and Achieve Novel Award Are you an aspiring writer, trying to break into the market?

This could be your big chance!

Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc. is hosting the 2018 Believe and Achieve Novel Award.

• • • •

One novel will be selected to receive a publishing contract.

The entry deadline is January 31, 2017.

Entry requires a $20 reading fee.

For submission rules and details visit jancarolpublishing.com

Previous Winners:

TOP 5

KITCHEN UPDATES According to Consumer Reports, the average kitchen remodel or renovation is over $10,000. Ouch! Most people can't afford to go all in at that price. So, here are 5 easy kitchen updates that won't break the bank.

1. Add Splash with a Back-splash Often an overlooked and under-rated space, the back-splash or space between the cabinets and counter tops or above the kitchen sink, is a blank canvas waiting for an artistic stroke. Add trendy subway tile, reclaimed wood, or make a statement with a tile that speaks to you.

2. Give Cabinets a Hot New Look Whether you remove your cabinet doors and paint the shelves for a hip new look, or re-paint your existing doors and boxes, you can accomplish a dazzling new look to your cabinets without the huge price tag of new or custom cabinets. You can also accomplish a new look by removing and replacing just the doors or by adding glass doors to a section of cabinets.

Be creative with color and style and this low budget update will amaze.

3. Add a Creative Element This can be as simple as adding a vase of flowers, art, or colorful canisters. Or adding new cabinet pulls or a painted accent wall. Take a look at your favorite decorative magazines or websites for ideas and then make it your own.

APEX TILE & SERVICES If your kitchen or bath is lack luster and could use some love, you don't have to break the bank to bring your kitchen and bath into this century. You can make a big change and a huge impact by changing your floors, or by adding a nice tile back-splash or an accent wall.

If this is too much to tackle on your own, Apex Tile and Sean Brown can tackle your update for you. Sean is a Tennessee native and now local to the Tri-Cities area.

He is a graduate of UT Chattanooga and has spent over a decade in the business world. Craving more of an independent life and time with his family, he took the Sean Brown leap and turned a 20 year hobby into a business. The great thing about that is working with a contractor with years of customer service experience. He is a contractor who is trustworthy and dependable.

You can reach Sean Brown with Apex Tile at 423-503-2221, call and schedule a free estimate and get moving on bringing your kitchen or bath into this century.

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4. Add an Island You may already have a kitchen island, if so you can paint the island a bold color that is different than the cabinet color. You can also add a free-standing island that fits your space and style.

5. Update Your Floors This is a little more costly project than the others, but many products exist on the market that homeowners can tackle on their own. Great new ceramic tiles look like wood and vinyl squares, or some flooring is designed to look like different types of hardwoods. If you don't feel confident enough to tackle this on your own, this is still an affordable update with the help of a professional.

Update your bathroom with new tile!

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“Your Quality Tile and Handyman Solution” voicemagazineforwomen.com | December 2017 | 19

The Gift of NO Gifts

By Cindy Sproles

T

he holidays are here. Long before Halloween ended, stores began the Christmas push. Gift giving catalogs have hit the mail; on-line shopping has begun.

Several years ago, we let our mother “off the hook” for Christmas shopping.

Our family had grown and shopping for every child, grandchild, and great-grandchild, though it was joyful and fun for mom, was financially taxing on her small monthly pension. In fact, it was unreasonable.

My mother is no different than any other aging parent. Christmas is the time when she could shower all the “grands” with loads of gifts. Many aging seniors are not fortunate enough to devote two or three months of pension to assure gifts are under the tree. Still, they spend this money without hesitation.

Seniors find great joy in purchasing gifts. It’s something they plan to do, one way or the other. So when your aging parents are faced with the grind and guilt of holiday purchases—offer them a new alternative.

Refocus the Christmas holiday to family. Invite the crowd over to a potluck dinner—the working word here is “potluck.” Feeding a small army is expensive when you consider the price of holiday meats. One meal for a family of 25 can soar as high as $400. Families never set out to bust mom and dad’s budget—they simply don’t think about the cost. Encourage a potluck dinner. Suggest parents provide their family’s favorite dish and everyone else will bring the fixings. You will not only save hundreds of dollars for your aging parents, but you will preserve their pride in providing Christmas dinner. A potluck allows mom to decorate the table, pull out her prettiest dishes, and spend time with those she loves without spending the day slaving over a hot stove.

Draw names. If your family insists on exchanging gifts as a whole, consider drawing names. This cuts the cost of gift giving in half.

Set a dollar limit. Set a feasible dollar amount on gifts. If you have parents who insist on purchasing for every family member, setting a dollar amount will help curb the cost. The idea is to control spending.

Silly Santa or Family traditions. Taking gift giving back to the joy of fellowship draws families closer. Find a family tradition that brings out the fun around the Christmas tree. Yearly my mother spends a great amount

20 | December 2017 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

of time (and little money), making sure she wraps one or two pairs of socks for each family member. The fun comes when gifts are passed out and everyone knows what’s in the box. Each box of socks opened brings a rousing cheer and applause. The holidays aren’t about gifts, they are about family, fellowship, and love. It’s tradition and it’s fun.

Handmade or sentimental giving. In our case, mother is a quilter. Each year she makes small quilted items—wall hangings, beautiful fabric bowls, potholders, or table runners. After all the gifts are opened, she has everyone pick a number. The winner receives a gift she has handmade—be it a quilt or a magnificent wall hanging.

Family cards. Consider prepaid gift cards for family members to local restaurants or stores. $5, $10, even $20 cards are appreciated and much more affordable than going “all out.”

Make Christmas about your aging parents. Make the majority of the gifts under the tree, gifts for mom and dad. Give them photos of your family. Gift cards to the local grocery store or gas stations. Hire a cleaning service for a monthly visit. Pre-pay the electric bill for a month.

Most seniors have more than their share of trinkets to dust, so be practical. Your parents will appreciate the effort.

Time. Our lives grow busier each year, but time is the greatest gift you can give your aging parent. Daily or weekly phone calls, visits, inviting them to your home for dinner or even a weekend stay. Going to the park, a meal out, a movie—nothing is more precious than your time, especially if your parent has lost a spouse. Remember the holidays, though joyful on the outside, can be the most painful for a single aging parent. Seniors face loneliness, depression, and heart ache during the holiday seasons.

Time with your parents is cherished.

It’s been said that regret is a horrible bedfellow. If you have disagreements with your aging parents, put them behind you. Move ahead with forgiveness, peace, and love. Unchecked efforts become deep and inconsolable regret after they are gone.

Make this holiday season a joyful and memorable one.

Cut costs. Refocus on family. Make your gift to parents, the gift of no gifts. This year change up the game and allow the reason for the season to take first place in your Christmas plans.

{

Cindy K. Sproles is a novelist, speaker, and conference teacher. She is the cofounder of ChristianDevotions.us and the managing editor for Straight Street Books and SonRise Devotionals, imprints of Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. Visit Cindy at www.cindysproles.com.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF What Is Vinegar?

It's made when bacteria feed on sugars and alcohol in fruit juices, wine, honey, and similar liquids. The result is an acetic acid solution that may have other nutrients, too. Apple cider vinegar starts with juice made from apples. There doesn't seem to be anything special about its health benefits, compared with other types of vinegar.

Perhaps the milder flavor and smell have helped boost its reputation.

Apple Cider Vinegar Remedies— do they work?

Lose Weight—In one study, overweight people who drank 1 or 2 ounces of vinegar (diluted with other liquid) lost weight at a slightly faster rate. And they lost belly fat. But there's no evidence that lots of vinegar will help you drop lots of pounds, or do it quickly.

Vinegar can help someone with diabetes control the amount of glucose in their blood after a meal as well as their A1C, a measure of "average" blood sugar for the past few months. A couple of teaspoons in water or food at mealtime works best. High blood sugar over time can lead to heart disease, kidney disease, stroke, and blindness.

Vinegar can also help keep insulin levels lower after you eat.

Fighting Germs—Apple cider vinegar— any vinegar, really—will kill some germs because of the acetic acid in it. It works best in your food—to clean up bacteria lingering on your salad leaves, for example. It's not very good at disinfecting a cut or wound. And because it's an acid, there's a chance it could chemically burn delicate skin.

It is suggested, but there's no evidence to confirm that vinegar kills yeast bacteria or fungus.

Protect Your Cells—Polyphenols are chemical compounds in fruits, vegetables, wine, coffee, and chocolate. So, there's no reason to think the polyphenols in apple cider vinegar can't be just as helpful, but we need more studies to be sure.

That murky, thicker liquid that collects at the bottom of some vinegars, called the "mother," is made up of the fermenting bacteria and their harmless waste. Most brands warm vinegar to kill the bacteria before packaging, but mother can develop once air hits the product.

More Is Not Better—Usually, 1–2 tablespoons a day is plenty to drink. There's little evidence that more can help, and too much can cause stomach problems, wear away your teeth, and lower potassium levels. It can also affect the way some drugs work, including water pills (diuretics), laxatives, and medicines for heart disease and diabetes. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before you start taking vinegar. Source: Webmd.com

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You need your skin. Treat it well.

Tips for Eating Healthy During the Holidays

• Eat breakfast. This has been shown to prevent overeating later in the day.

• Before going out, have a healthy snack to curb your appetite.

• Pop a sugar-free mint in your mouth before eating and after you have had enough.

• Eating hot soup as a first course—especially when it's broth-based, not cream-based—can help you avoid eating Now in-network: Blue Network S too much during the main course.

Millie Henderson FNP-BC Jami Reaves DO, FAOCD, FASMS • Limit the number of high-calorie foods on your party plate. Cutting down on your personal smörgåsbord can Kingsport, TN | (877) 878-DERM decrease what you end up eating by 20 to 40 percent. www.calladerm.com • Concentrate on your meal while you are eating it.

• Take sensible portions so you do not end up eating too much.

• Pour drinks into tall, skinny glasses, not the fat, wide kind.

“Keeping the Comforts of Home” • Weigh yourself daily and use that • Alzheimer's Care • Respite Care number to guide your actions.

• Dementia Care • Companion Care • Zip yourself into your favorite • Hospital to Home • Hospice Care pair of slim-fitting pants once a • Personal Care week and note how they fit. Too tight? What a reminder to adjust from your eating and exercise habits!

Just right? Keep up the good work.

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Voice Magazine recognizes the

Reader of the Month 22 | December 2017 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Lori Jeffcoat

Works: Marshals • Lives: Bristol, TN The last book I read was: The Bible.

My ideal meal is: Broiled sea scallops, steamed broccoli, rice, hushpuppies, and white wine.

If I could travel anywhere in the world, it would be: The Northeast Coast of Scotland to see Dunnottar Castle.

I can't leave home without: My Sunglasses.

The top item on my bucket list is: To live long enough to know my grandkids.

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

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23. Criticizes 24. Midwife 25. Entwined 26. Supervises interstate commerce 27. A way to convert 28. Female sibling 29. TV network 30. Tropical Asian plant 31. Line on a map 32. Denotes songbirds 33. Made publicly known 34. He devised mud cleats for football 36. Trends

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You don’t have to be a Scrooge to cut back on holiday waste!

T

he holiday season is a joyful time of year. But the weeks between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day also tend to be very wasteful. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that household waste increases by more than 25 percent during the holiday season.

Reducing waste come the holiday season does not mean celebrants have to forgo big family meals or beautifully wrapped gifts. In fact, there are several ways to reduce waste without spoiling the spirit of the season.

Give eco-conscious gifts. The environment may not be the first thing that comes to mind when holiday shoppers are looking for gifts for their loved ones. But giving reusable gifts can have a positive, long-term impact on the planet. Reusable coffee mugs or water bottles can dramatically reduce waste over time, and such items make great stocking stuffers.

Shoppers also can look for items made from recycled materials, which run the gamut from home furnishings to calendars to clothing, as eco-friendly alternatives to gifts produced without the environment in mind.

Reducing waste come the holiday season does not mean celebrants have to forgo big family meals or beautifully wrapped gifts. In fact, there are several ways to reduce waste without spoiling the spirit of the season.

collection after the holiday season has ended typically end

Reuse holiday-specific items. Many people only use gift up in landfills, but some communities recycle Christmas wrap, gift boxes and gift bags during the holiday season. Such items are oftentimes discarded after Christmas morning.

But these items can be reused to cut back on holiday waste.

Reusing wrapping paper from year to year can be especially beneficial to the environment. That’s because wrapping paper tends to be dyed or laminated, and many wrapping papers contain non-paper additives that cannot be recycled.

Reusing wrapping paper, purchasing only recyclable paper, or wrapping gifts in old newspapers or magazines can help holiday celebrants reduce their carbon footprints.

trees each year. Real tree enthusiasts can contact community officials to determine if they can recycle rather than discard their trees.

The holiday season is a joyful time and doesn’t have to be a wasteful time of year!

Ladies! Like to Sing?

Prepare less food and donate any leftovers. During

If you like to sing, you’re invited to visit Hills Are Alive! Chorus.

the holiday season celebrants generate three times as much food waste as they do during other times of the year. Large family meals are a tradition of the holiday season, but hosts who routinely find themselves discarding leftovers can plan on preparing less food this year. Consider how much guests are likely to eat, and plan meals accordingly instead of buying enough food to feed a small army. Donate leftovers to nearby shelters so nothing goes to waste.

Sitting in on one of our rehearsals is the perfect way to find out more about us, and what we can do for you! We are an acapella, 4-part harmony, barbershop-style women’s chorus.

Recycle live Christmas trees. According to the National Christmas Tree Association, 25.9 million real trees were sold in the United States in 2015. Trees put out on the curb for

We rehearse in Bristol every Tuesday from 7–9 PM at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 672 Island Road, Bristol, Virginia (at Exit 1) For more information, contact: Martha Shaw 423-677-6333 or m2@wrzk.com or Dondra Warden 423-646-1533 or directinghaa@aol.com voicemagazineforwomen.com | December 2017 | 25

How to Care for Your

Farm-Grown Christmas Tree

W

hen a Christmas tree is cut, more than half its weight is water. With proper care, you can maintain the quality of your tree.

Below are a number of tips on caring for your tree: • Once home, place the tree in water as soon as possible. Most species can go 6 to 8 hours after cutting the trunk and still take up water. Don't bruise the cut surface or get it dirty. If needed, trees can be temporarily stored for several days in a cool location. Place the freshly cut trunk in a bucket that is kept full of water. Displaying trees in water in a traditional reservoir type stand is the most effective way of maintaining their freshness and minimizing needle loss problems.

• To display the trees indoors, use a stand with an adequate water holding capacity for the tree. As a general rule, stands should provide 1 quart of water per inch of stem diameter. Devices are available that help maintain a constant water level in the stand.

• Use a stand that fits your tree. Avoid whittling the sides of the trunk down to fit a stand. The outer layers of wood are the most efficient in taking up water and should not be removed.

• Make a fresh cut to remove about a 1/2-inch thick disk of wood from the base of the trunk before putting the

Family Tradition

By Janie C. Jessee

C

hristmas time was very special time in my family. It meant that we would travel to my maternal Grandma’s house. Ma and Pa always placed a ‘real’ gigantic tree in one of their many rooms in their 1800’s farmhouse. Under the tree were lots of toys and presents. It was a tradition to have all the aunts, uncles, and cousins gather in for the festive arrival for Santa Claus. We would receive gifts there on Christmas Eve and later in the night, Santa would leave more presents under our Christmas tree at home.

26 | December 2017 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

•

• • • • •

tree in the stand. Make the cut perpendicular to the stem axis. Don't cut the trunk at an angle, or into a v-shape, which makes it far more difficult to hold the tree in the stand and also reduces the amount of water available to the tree.

• Drilling a hole in the base of the trunk does NOT improve water uptake.

The temperature of the water used to fill the stand is not important and does not affect water uptake.

• Check the stand daily to make sure that the level of water does not go below the base of the tree. With many stands, there can still be water in the stand even though the base of the tree is no longer submerged in water. After Christmas, or if the tree is very dry, remove it from the house.

Keep trees away from major sources of heat (fireplaces, heaters, heat vents, direct sunlight). Lowering the room temperature will slow the drying process, resulting in less water consumption each day.

Use of lights that produce low heat, such as miniature lights, will reduce drying of the tree.

Always inspect light sets prior to placing them on the tree. If worn, replace with a new set.

Do not overload electrical circuits.

Always turn off the tree lights when leaving the house or when going to bed.

Never burn any part of a Christmas tree in a wood stove or fireplace. Source: realchristmastrees.org

On one very special Christmas Eve, Santa Claus would not give me a present without me hugging his neck first. I remember debating about that, before I very courageously hugged his neck for that doll he had in his hands. In later years, I learned that the a doll was Mom’s doll when she was growing up. Do I still have that doll? Yes! What a special gift!

My holidays were filled with the rural Central Appalachian traditions of family, food, and understanding the real meaning of Christmas.

From all of us here at Modern Day Appalachian Woman – Appalachian Living – we wish that your holidays be filled with family, food, fun, and love!

Holiday Hors d'Oeuvres

By Tracy Fletcher McGlothlin

Combine all ingredients, except pecans, and stir well. Place pecans in a large bowl and make a well in the center. Spoon entire mixture on top of pecans. Roll the mixture in pecans so that the pecans cover the entire outside of the cheese mixture. Form into a ball and cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 5-6 hours or overnight. Serve with crackers.

Sausage Balls

Mix ingredients together well. Roll into 1 1/2 - 2 inch balls and place on wax paper on a cookie sheet and bake at 350 for 20 minutes.

Tasty Sweet Goat Cheese Log Goat Cheese Log 1/2 cup Caramel Sauce 1/2 cup Pecans, chopped 1/2 tsp Sea Salt 1 Large Pear, not too ripe Place goat cheese log on serving tray. Cover the cheese with pecans. Top with Carmel sauce and sprinkle sea salt on top. Slice pear into bite size pieces and place around the cheese log. The pears are a great substitute for crackers and taste delicious!

Caprese Skewers

Easy Cheese Ball 8 oz. Cream Cheese, room temperature 4 oz. Ham, chopped 1/4 cup Black Olives, chopped 2 Tblsp. Chopped Onion, green or white 2 Tblsp. Sour Cream 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce 1 cup Pecans, chopped

1 cup Frozen Spinach, thawed 1 1/2 cups Artichokes, chopped 8 oz Cream Cheese, room temperature 1/4 cup Sour Cream 1/4 cup Mayonnaise 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese, shredded 1/2 tsp Salt 1/4 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix together all ingredients except mozzarella cheese. Spoon into a greased baking dish. Top with mozzarella cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese starts to brown on top. Let cool for 10 minutes and serve with crackers.

1 lb Breakfast Sausage 1 lb Shredded Cheddar Cheese 2 cups Self-Rising Flour

Additional Sausage Ball Recipes: 1. You can also add 1/2 cup chopped pimentos...or 2. Add 1/2 cup chopped green bell peppers...or 3. For a little kick, add 1/4 cup finely chopped jalapeĂąo peppers...or 4. For a sweet and savory treat use Sage flavored Sausage and add 1/2 cup finely chopped dates.

Spinach Artichoke Dip

Bacon Wrapped Blue Cheese Dates 1 lb Applewood Smoked Bacon, cut slices in half 1 lb Dates, pitted 4 oz. Blue Cheese Toothpicks Make a slit in the center of the dates, lengthwise. Fill the slits with blue cheese and push together.

Wrap the dates with a half piece of bacon and secure with a toothpick.

Place date skewers flat on a baking sheet.

Bake at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes.

Turn the dates over after 15 minutes to make sure they are brown on both sides.

* Soft Mozzarella Pearls * Cherry Tomatoes * Basil Leaves Olive oil Balsamic Glaze Salt and Pepper Party toothpicks * You will need equal amounts of mozzarella, tomatoes and basil leaves.

Place a mozzarella pearl on a toothpick, then a basil leaf and a cherry tomato. Lay the skewers flat on a serving tray and drizzle with olive oil, balsamic glaze, salt and pepper. Ready to serve!

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

voicemagazineforwomen.com | December 2017 | 27

Holiday Season—

Drive Safely to Grandma’s House!

Some of the most festive times of the year are associated with an increased risk of automotive accidents due to impaired driving. Any time alcohol, drugs, exhaustion, distractions, and driving are mixed, the results can be unsafe driving conditions that increase the risk of injury or death.

Distracted driving—It is important to note that driving under the influence of illegal substances, alcohol, and even prescription medications can lead to crashes. But a recent and increasingly pervasive driving problem is distracted driving. The Federal Communications Commission says the use of mobile devices behind the wheel can cause unintended and deadly consequences. The NHTSA says that at any moment during the day, approximately 660,000 drivers use cell phones or manipulate electronic devices while driving.

Tips for preventing vehicular accidents, injuries and fatalities comes down to using common sense.

• No one should text and drive. Store phones out of reach or set quiet alerts while behind the wheel. If a phone must be used, pull over to a safe area to do so.

Beauty for Ashes

By Kelly McFadden To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified. Isaiah 61:3 (KJV) Interpretation: …and provide for those who grieve in Zion–to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his splendor. Isaiah 61:3 (KJV)

A

friend of mine was asked by a young couple to perform a memorial at sea for their stillborn child. The three of them planned to spread the baby’s ashes at sea. The morning they chose was overcast and glum, reflecting their feelings of loss. They huddled together on deck, praying through swollen, tear-stained eyes while they pulled away from the shore. When the time drew near to spread the ashes, the young couple did not want to remove the ashes from the small satin box, but intended 28 | December 2017 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

• Know the side effects of medications you are taking and how they can impair driving. If taking a newly prescribed medication, do not operate a vehicle until you understand how it makes you feel.

• Pull over if you are feeling drowsy behind the wheel.

Opening the window or listening to loud music may not be enough to keep you awake.

• Never mix alcohol or drugs with driving. Opt for a rideshare service or taxi or uber if you will be having a few drinks at a bar or restaurant. Even one or two drinks can impair drivers.

Impaired driving—Twenty-eight people die each day in the United States in vehicular accidents that involve an alcohol-impaired driver, accounting for one death every 51 minutes, offers the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Impaired and distracted driving is no joke. It is a problem throughout the year, but one that is largely preventable.

Have a safe ‘driving’ holiday!

to throw the box overboard. The captain explained to them that it was better to open the box and release the ashes to the waves. With reservation and tears, the couple stood at the railing, releasing their baby’s ashes over the sea. They stood together watching the ashes float away and spread across the rolling sea.

At this moment, something unexpected happened. The clouds parted enough to let a beam of sunlight shine down where the ashes drifted. For an instant, the ash began to sparkle in the sunlight. As my friend shared her story with me, she described the moment as surreal. For what she saw in that moment was beauty for ashes, gladness for mourning, and praise for despair.

She understood a deep truth about the Lord.

Each of us hides pain inside. Whether it is a shameful past, a break-up, losing a loved one, or bad decisions, we all have “ashes” hidden in a box. We try to cover our loss with a beautiful exterior, attempting to make what resides inside less painful than it is. Yet, to experience healing, we need to let those hidden things go. God sees our deepest parts and inner most thoughts.

He wants to turn our mourning to praise and give us hope, but we can prevent this healing process from taking place if we hold on too tightly to our pain.

Like the young couple on the boat, we too need to be willing to scatter our pain into the Lord’s hands so He can make beauty of our ashes. Source: homeword.com

The Season for Giving O

By April Hensley

ne of the special things about gardeners is how generous they are. From advice to roses to zucchinis, they share their special gift with others year-round. Their labor of love is truly given from the heart.

This festive season of giving is the perfect time to give back to a special gardener in your life. They have been providing us with fruits, vegetables, flowers, and seeds. They deserve a gift to make gardening even more enjoyable.

I’ve searched my brain and the internet for some novel and new ideas. Here’s a few I’ve come up with but your gardener will love anything you give them.

• Gardening reference books are a gift that keeps on giving forever. With these on a bookshelf, a gardener can quickly look up diseases, bugs, or identify if a seedling is a weed or a vegetable. Some of the best ones I’ve found are well aged ones tucked away in second hand book stores.

• A potting bench is an indispensable tool. It gives gardeners an area to store tools, pots, and dirt, and a comfortable area to stand while working. Some of them come with a small sink with a water hose attachment, making clean up and watering a breeze. Besides kits to put together, there are dozens of plans on the internet to make potting benches using pallets and leftover wood.

• Some wildlife are beneficial to gardens, especially birds and bats that eat damaging bugs and mosquitoes. Hummingbirds are beautiful to watch and help pollinate flowers. Help attract these feathered friends with bird feeders and bird and bat houses. There are many varieties from wood to metal to glass; you are sure to find something that fits your gardener’s decor. There are also many lovely ideas online for a personal handmade gift.

• For indoor gardeners and gourmet cooks, an herb kit will bring many months of joy. The kits come with pots, dirt, and seeds with detailed instructions for growing the tasty ingredients. Many stores have pots and seeds on clearance now, that you can put together to make your own kit.

• Fairy gardens are growing in popularity with young and old alike. Personalize a fairy garden in a small pot for a living gift or items to add to one they already have. Houses and furniture can be made from nature and scrap materials. Craft stores sell miniatures perfect for tiny • New Construction • Guttering Call Today! gardens.

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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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voicemagazineforwomen.com | December 2017 | 29

From the EDITOR

Also, please share with us your favorite regional recipes, grandma’s medical remedies, or regional tips that have been passed down from generation to generation. Join us in introducing our Appalachian region globally and around the world. Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc. is expanding our footprint to focus even more on women.

Our online magazine will be seen EVERYWHERE, so grow with us!

Modern Day Appalachian Woman — Appalachian Living

W

hat a year! Debuted in January 2017, our sister magazine has exceeded all expectations!

Thank you! We are so pleased with the overwhelming positive responses and the readership for our sister magazine, Modern Day Appalachian Woman — Appalachian Living!

What does this means for 2018? Growth in our overall presence and a wider distribution through the Appalachian region! Our focus with this brand in print and digital formats, is an addition to Voice Magazine for Women to broaden the ‘voice’ of women in the Appalachian region. We are excited to see where we are going with Modern Day Appalachian Woman — Appalachian Living in 2018! Please continue to follow us!

We women from the Appalachian region know how our strength and our determination supports our accomplishments. The Appalachian region is comprised of women who are trailblazers. Those trailblazers are inspirations for other women as they create growth opportunities for their ‘sisters’ in this region.

We invite you to be a part of our growth. Do you know a woman who has made a difference in the Appalachian region? Do you know a woman who has made a difference in the past, or is currently making a difference in the ‘voice’ of women in this region? Do you know a woman who deserves recognition for her contributions to enable the women in Appalachia through her work, her career, her business, her creativity, or her craft? Let us know! We want to feature her! We are scheduling for the year 2018!

Contact Janie Jessee, publisher@jancarolpublishing.com.

30 | December 2017 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Janie C. Jessee, Editor

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