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Realistic Resolutions New Year— New You

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H

ello 2017! This year is bringing exciting changes for Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc. and Voice Magazine for Women!

Voice Magazine for Women is expanding into a larger market by broadening its footprint regionally and digitally with the premier issue of our sister magazine, Modern Day Appalachian Woman…Appalachian Living.

Please follow us in the future growth of our new magazine.

With our continued focus on bringing local articles and information, we are excited to welcome new additions to our group of contributing writers.

Please help us welcome them either by emailing them or visiting them on Facebook letting them know how much you enjoy their articles!

Would like to share information with others? We are looking for experts in coupon shopping, decorating, crafts, cooking, health, fashion or topics of interest to women. Submit your article for consideration. Visit our website, voicemagazineforwomen.com for article submission guidelines, or call 423-926-9983 or email editor@voicemagazineforwomen.com.

Jan-Carol Publishing is going to see some changes in 2017 too! JCP is growing by establishing another imprint for authors seeking a digital and an 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, blawesomemarketing.com. These marketing products are not just for JCP authors.

AND—join us with a premier appearance on Good Day Tri-Cities with Morgan King and Whitney Carr on MY19-WKPT. (See their ad on page 6.)

We are excited about the many new projects and events we have in the planning stages and the new products we will soon roll out. We are counting on all of you—our readers, supporters, advertisers, business owners and fans to join us and be actively supportive. Thank you for being there! As we plan and schedule for this new year, we want each of you to travel with us on our journey in 2017.

Interested in hosting a book signing? For details, call our office, 423-926-9983. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook and join in the fun of the ‘giveaways’ and other happenings. For all you book lovers, join our book club. To request our e-newsletter offering recipes, latest happenings and updates, email office@jancarolpublishing.com. Be sure to ‘like’ Voice Magazine for Women and Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc. on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn! We want to hear from you in this new year!

From all of us to all of you—Happy New Year!

Verse of the month: “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11 (NKJV) Thought of the month: “You’ll never find the right things if you don’t let go of the wrong ones.” Author Unknown

Janie C. Jessee, Editor

4 | January 2017 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

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 JANUARY CONTRIBUTING WRITERS April Hensley Ken Heath

Nancy Binder Pam Blair

Lisa Smith Tammy Robinson Smith

OFFICE Brandon Goins - Office Assistant office@voicemagazineforwomen.com office@jancarolpublishing.com Office Phone/Fax: 423.926.9983 GRAPHICS/PRODUCTION Tara Sizemore - Senior Graphics Designer tara@voicemagazineforwomen.com graphics@jancarolpublishing.com MARKETING Tammy Robinson Smith - JCP Director of Communications communications@jancarolpublishing.com DISTRIBUTION Karen Corder Staff JCP Internships Available

PUBLISHED BY JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC. (Volume 14, Issue 1) While every precaution has been taken to ensure accuracy of the published material, Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc. / Voice Magazine cannot be held responsible for opinions or facts provided by its authors, advertisers or agencies. All rights are reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without written permission. Agencies, Advertisers and other contributors will indemnify and hold the publisher harmless for any loss or expense resulting from claims or suits based upon contents of any advertisement, defamation, libel, right of privacy, plagiarism and/or copyright infringement. The views expressed in Voice Magazine for Women are not necessarily those of the publisher. © 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.

find us:

www.voicemagazineforwomen.com /voicemagazineforwomen @VoiceMagazineTN

11

contents January 2017 | Volume 14 | Issue 1

Trendy Style Shearling

7

Jaipur, India– The Pink City

7

Nancy Binder 16

VoiceMALE

Jan-Carol Publishing

Ken Heath 8

New Releases 18

Realistic Resolutions

14 18

9

Spiritually Speaking Jim Burns 20

YWCA Seeking Nominations for 26th Tribute to Women Program

Anxiety or Stress?

23

10

See Next Month:

Is Meditation for You?

Do you Know your Chocolates?

How to Make Valentine’s Day Special Benefits of Massage

Craig Armstrong 11

National Soup Month 12

Battling Body Image Craig Armstrong 14

January Hot Hunk Hunt!

The December “Hot Hunk” was Morgan King

Modern Day

APPALACHIAN WOM AN

Flip this issue!

APPALACHIAN LIVING

New Year—New You 15 See

Ricky Matthews (Weekend Morning Meteorologist at WCYB News 5)

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

HOT HUNK LOCATION:

Each month Voice will “hide” a picture of a “Hot Hunk.” If you find him, fill out this form, mail it Where did I pick up my copy of Voice Magazine? in, and you could win lunch for 2 with a $20 gift certificate to a local restaurant.

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

Johnson City, TN as the winner in the December Hot Hunk Hunt!

Thanks to ALL for sending in your entry!

!

ide

Ins

or e-mail: hothunk@voicemagazineforwomen.com Deadline for submission is January 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.

free!

JANUARY 2017

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vibrant • vocal • vivacious

9 15 12

Realistic Resolutions New Year— New You

5 TIPS

Warm Up with National Soup Month

Flip This Issue!

voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2017 | 5

Voice Magazine recognizes the

Reader of the Month 6 | January 2017 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Stephanie Edwards

From: Lebanon, VA Occupation: Nutrition Graduate Student at Virginia Tech I feel empowered when: I’m outside. I love to go hiking and mountain views make me feel alive.

My ideal meal is: I love to pack vegetables into a meal, and stuffed peppers or roasted vegetables with salmon are my favorite!

If I could travel anywhere in the world, it would be: New Zealand, to see the beautiful mountains and

beaches and explore the natural wonders of the country.

I’m obsessed with: Coffee.

The top item on my bucket list is: To see the Northern Lights and travel the world!

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

Trendy Style Shearling

By Jan Howery

W

hat is shearling? It is wool from a sheep that has been shorn once. Real shearling breathes and is more flexible than synthetic shearling. However, when the label says the item is faux shearling, in some ways it means it is better than the real thing.

One of the key fashion trends for the fall/ winter season is shearling. The faux shearling trend is a warm and stylish look that attracts attention. This winter fashion trend is available in footwear, such as boots, booties, as accents on handbags and showcased this winter season in jackets, vests and scarves.

So, if you are seeking a warm and cuddly option, faux shearling is perfect!

Shearling offers comfort and style.

From a rustic laidback style to a more refined tailored look trimmed in leather, shearling fleece fits any personality.

logie.com www.anthropo ots Shearling Bo ra nd Tu n Matt Bernso $388.00

www.nordstromrack .com 7 For All Mankind Faux Shearling & Faux Suede Asym metric Zip Coat Sale $174.37 Originally $697.50

www.target.com Shearling Oblong Decorative Pillow (14”x20”) Cream - Threshold™ $24.99

www.belk.com MICHAEL Michael Kors Jamie Medium Suede and Shearling Saddlebag Sale $177.99 Original Price $298.00 voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2017 | 7

Voicemail

Male

By Ken Heath

D

id you ever consider how close “Resolution” and “Revolution” are in the dictionary? Just one letter is all that changes the word from a self-imposed promise that we hope to keep into a 360-degree change in our lives. As we start the New Year, we all tend to look at the first as the way to magically transform our lives, when what we really want is the latter.

It’s the thing to do, I know. Everybody wants to lose weight, exercise more, volunteer, go to church more often, and we make our New Year’s resolutions accordingly. But if you’re like me, by the time you’re through reading this, you’ve broken most of your resolutions and

probably formed more bad habits that we’ll all resolve to break come next January.

But this year, I’m challenging you to join me to start a REVOLUTION. Let’s look at those things we kinda hope we want to change, sift through them to see what’s really at the core, and then not just pinkie-promise, but make a REAL effort to make a difference this year.

We resolve to lose weight or to exercise more, but maybe what we really need is a REVOLUTION within ourselves to work on being healthier. We resolve to volunteer more, but maybe what we are really looking for is an opportunity for a REVOLUTION to be more involved in our community.

We’ve wiped the slate clear on 2016, and for good or bad, it’s gone. There’s a blank page in front of us. And it’s up to us to decide what’s written on it when we look back.

As I’ve often said, life is all about three things—money, energy, and time. We can find ways to make more money, perhaps have more energy. But time? No, we have no control over that. Once we’ve used what we’re allotted, we’re flat out. No more ATM, no part-time job, no quick nap or vacation to recharge. Time is the most precious gift of all.

So, in 2017, let’s not waste a second of it! Instead of playing around with New Year’s resolutions, let’s start a REVOLUTION! Let’s be the change we want to see, in our personal lives, in our relationships, in our community.

And let’s get together next year about this time and look back at the 35 and a 1/2 million seconds we’ve spent and know we’ve done our best to make the most of each and every one!

Viva La REVOLUTION! And Happy New Year!

{

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 two yellow labs with his wonderful wife, and a professional mobile DJ with Bow Tie Pro Music and Sound. Follow him on Facebook and on Twitter at #kenheath.

“Virginia's Most Awarded DJ Service”

(276) 759-1102 | www.kenheath.com 8 | January 2017 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Renew in the Realistic Resolutions

By Jan Howery

M

any of us start the New Year with new goals such as to eat healthier, lose weight and have a plan for accomplishment in the year. We start the New Year with good intentions, but it is soon realized that it is ‘just another day,’ and ‘another year.’ Goals and aspirations are dropped as we move into our normal routine and move away from the holidays. What does it take to have the ‘sticky’ stuff to stick with your goals?

Keep your focus on your goal! First, there is no mysterious secret of success in keeping focused on your goals.

There will be setbacks and obstacles. Plan for them. However, keep your goals simple and this will prove to be a good plan of action. Do not make a list of goals longer than your Christmas list and expect that overnight, you will accomplish each and every goal. By meeting simple goals, you will feel encouraged to make and meet other goals.

Be your own cheerleader! If you share your goals with others, and this motivates you to move toward your goals, then definitely share with your friends! But do not depend on other people to be your kickstarter. Do it for you! This will create an inner motivator.

One change at a time and one day at time! Expect the unexpected. We may become sidetracked, but give your permission to be distracted, and set a time that you will get back on track. If you are trying to lose weight and you missed your workout session, accept it and set your sights on the next class.

You are what you tell yourself! You may think no one is listening, but if you say negative things about yourself to yourself, the most important person is listening…you! Popular wisdom informs us that telling yourself “I can do it” is a sure way to help you succeed. It has been demonstrated through psychological studies that this is true. Look in the mirror and the person you see is… a success … a winner … and a beautiful person! Happy New Year!

Question: What to do with the last year’s baggage that travels with you into the New Year?

Answer: Part of our discouragement in the New Year can be problems such as debt, illness or troubles which did not miraculously go away with the striking of midnight into the New Year. However, set your focus on your attitude and not the problems. How do you plan to work through the troubles? By recognizing that the ‘woes’ will not disappear instantly, you have created a plan of action. This attitude will help feel in control and you can work through them.

We Asked our Facebook Fans:

What are your goals for the new year?

Get back in an exercise routine!

–Rita Quillen

Build up my strength to start running again. –April Ford Hensley Build my endurance! After surgery, I still feel a little puny! :-) –Tammy Robinson Smith

voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2017 | 9

YWCA Seeking Nominations for 26th Tribute to Women Program Y

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

“Every year I am inspired by the amazing women nominated for this award and humbled by everything they’ve accomplished,” said Kathy Waugh, YWCA Bristol Executive Director.

Organizations, businesses, and community groups may nominate women 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 women in each category. Nominations are due on February 15, 2017. Honorees will be announced in early March, and the awards banquet will occur on April 27, 2017 at 6pm at the Bristol Train Station.

An Enterprise of:

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Select bridal gowns $99 20% off Bridal Inventory Shop designer gowns from Vera Wang, Oscar de la Renta, Monique Lhuillier, Maggie Sottero and more!

bristolbridalstation.com | 423.968.9444 bristolbridal@ywcabristol.org Located inside YWCA Bristol 106 State Street | Bristol, TN 37620

10 | January 2017 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

“Tribute to Women is an excellent opportunity to celebrate employees or volunteers who have made significant contributions in the workplace or community,” said Waugh.

Tribute to Women also raises thousands of dollars annually to support the mission and programs of the YWCA, including sliding-scale childcare and a STEM afterschool program, TechGYRLS. Through the corporate partnership program, ticket sales, and a silent auction millions have been raised for the charitable work of YWCA Bristol while honoring the most deserving women in the region. Since 1992, more than 160 women have earned a Tribute to Women statuette.

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 the deadline. Forms are also available for pick-up at the YWCA front desk.

For more information about nominations, please contact Courtney King at c_king@ywcabristol.org or call 423.968.9444. For more information about sponsorships, please contact Katy Stigers at k_stigers@ywcabristol.org.

Is Meditation for You?

By Craig W. Armstrong

W

hen many people think of meditation, they envision sitting on the mountain top surrounded by monks, chanting. Others may see it as tree hugging hippie behavior. Meditation, like many things, is what you make of it, but these perceptions aren’t necessarily true. Meditation is a way to get in touch with your mind, learn more about yourself and allow you to relax, among other things. If you would like to give it a try, here are a few tips.

The key to getting started is to start slow. Start by doing it just 2 minutes a day for a full week. If it feels comfortable and you feel like you are getting the hang of it, slowly increase the time. Within a couple of months, you could work up to 10 or 15 minutes.

The time of day when you meditate can be crucial.

The best time, especially when you are getting started is first thing in the morning. Let’s face it, by the end of the day your mind is filled with the day’s events and is either still racing, or it’s worn out. Start fresh, meditate in the morning.

Try to meditate on a relatively empty stomach. Being too full can distract you, and your body will be less com-

fortable. If you have to eat something when you wake up, keep it light.

Don’t over think it. In the immortal words of Yoda, ‘Do or do not, there is no try.’ Don’t be afraid that you look silly or that you are doing it wrong. Just try it.

Many people worry about how they are sitting or where they are sitting. If you are comfortable, you are sitting in the right place. Again, don’t get caught up in this, especially when you are just starting out.

Once you are settled, focus on your breathing. Breathe normally but follow your breath from your nose or mouth, down your lungs and back out again. Count ‘one’ on the intake and ‘two’ on the exhale. Count to 10 (5 inhales, 5 exhales) then repeat.

As you become more relaxed, your mind will wander.

When this occurs, go back to counting your breaths. As you gain confidence, you will be able to focus on specific thoughts. There is a difference between a wandering mind and a specific thought, emotion or feeling. You will learn to focus in. Once you do, stay with that thought and explore it.

You can also participate in guided meditation group. But start out on your own and see if you like it. It is what you make of it, and if nothing else, it is a few minutes of quiet time, and everyone can benefit from it. voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2017 | 11

y r a u n Ja p Month u o S l a n Natio

Chunky Chicken Noodle Soup Ingredients 1 (3-pound) broiler-fryer, cut up and skinned 4 cups water 3/4 teaspoon poultry seasoning 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme 3 celery tops 2 cups water 2 ounces uncooked medium egg noodles 1/2 cup sliced celery 1/2 cup sliced carrot 1/3 cup sliced green onions 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley 2 teaspoons chicken-flavored bouillon granules 1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper 1 bay leaf Additional coarsely ground black pepper (optional) Instructions Combine first 5 ingredients in a Dutch oven; bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 45 minutes or until chicken is tender. Remove chicken from broth, discarding celery and reserving broth.

Skim fat from broth. Add 2 cups water and next 8 ingredients to broth; bring to a boil.

Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 20 minutes.

Bone and chop chicken; add to broth mixture. Cook 5 minutes or until thoroughly heated. Discard bay leaf. Ladle soup into bowls, and sprinkle with additional pepper, if desired. www.health.com

12 | January 2017 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Mexican Tortilla Soup Ingredients 2 teaspoons olive oil, divided 12 ounces skinless, boneless chicken breast, trimmed and diced 1 cup chopped onion 1 cup chopped green bell pepper 2 garlic cloves, minced (1 teaspoon) 3/4 teaspoon ground cumin 3/4 teaspoon chili powder 2 (14-ounce) cans fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained 1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro 1/2 cup coarsely crushed baked tortilla chips (such as Tostitos) 1/2 cup preshredded reduced-fat Mexican blend cheese 6 lime wedges (about 1 1/2 limes) Instructions Heat 1 teaspoon oil in a nonstick Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, and cook, stirring often, 3-4 minutes or until browned. Remove to plate, and cover.

In the same pan, heat remaining 1 teaspoon oil on medium-high. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook, stirring often, 5 minutes or until softened. Stir in cumin, chili powder, broth, and tomatoes. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer 5 minutes.

Return the chicken and juices to the pan and simmer 3 minutes or until heated through. Stir in cilantro.

Ladle soup into serving bowls; top with crushed tortilla chips and cheese. Serve hot, with a lime wedge on the side. www.health.com

Sweet & Sour Beef-Cabbage Soup Ingredients 1 tablespoon canola oil 1 pound lean (90% or leaner) ground beef 1½ teaspoons caraway seeds 1 teaspoon dried thyme 2½ cups frozen bell pepper and onion mix, thawed, chopped 1 medium Golden Delicious or other sweet-tart cooking apple, unpeeled, diced 6 cups reduced-sodium beef broth 1 15-ounce can crushed or diced tomatoes 1½ tablespoons honey 1 tablespoon paprika 3 cups coarsely chopped Savoy, or green cabbage 1–2 tablespoons cider vinegar ¼ teaspoon salt Freshly ground pepper to taste Instructions Heat oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add beef, caraway seeds and thyme and cook, stirring and breaking up the beef with a spoon, until it is mostly browned, about 4 minutes. Stir in pepper-onion mix and apple; cook, stirring, for 2 to 3 minutes more.

Stir in broth, tomatoes, honey and paprika and adjust the heat so the mixture boils gently. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes to blend the flavors. Stir in cabbage and cook just until barely tender, 3 to 4 minutes more.

Season with vinegar to taste, salt and pepper. www.eatingwell.com

Add to cooking juices in Dutch oven. Stir in tomatoes, tomato sauce, salsa, zucchini, carrots, corn, chilies, cumin, chili powder and basil. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, covered, 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are tender. Add chicken; heat through.

If desired, serve with cheese and tortilla chips. Soup may be frozen for up to 3 months. www.tasteofhome.com

Sausage-andTortellini Soup Ingredients For the Soup 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil 1 lb. sweet Italian sausage, casings removed 1/2 c. dry white wine 1 onion, chopped 2 celery ribs, sliced 3 garlic cloves, chopped 6 c. chicken stock 2 tsp. italian seasoning 1 tsp. fennel seeds 1 bay leaf Freshly ground black pepper 2 small heads escarole, chopped (8 c.)

1 9-oz. package refrigerated three-cheese tortellini For the Pesto Croutons 3 tbsp. pesto 1 tbsp. olive oil 3 c. cubed ciabatta bread Instructions Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook, breaking it up into large chunks with a spoon, until browned, 6 to 8 minutes.

Remove with a slotted spoon to a 6-quart slow cooker; reserve skillet. Add wine to reserved skillet and cook, scraping up brown bits, until thickened, 30 seconds; add to slow cooker.

Add onion, celery, garlic, stock, Italian seasoning, fennel seeds, bay leaf, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper to slow cooker and stir to combine. Cover and cook until vegetables are tender, on low for 5 to 6 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours.

Stir in escarole and tortellini; cover and cook until escarole is wilted and tortellini is tender, 14 to 16 minutes on low or 4 to 6 minutes on high. Season with salt and pepper. Serve topped with Pesto Croutons.

Make the Pesto Croutons: Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Stir together pesto and olive oil in a bowl. Add ciabatta bread and toss to coat. Bake until toasted, 10 to 12 minutes.

Chipotle Beef Chili Recipe Zesty Chicken Soup Recipe Ingredients 1-1/4 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts 4 cups water 1 tablespoon canola oil 1 medium onion, chopped 2 celery ribs, chopped 4 garlic cloves, minced 1 can (14-1/2 ounces) Mexican diced tomatoes 1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce 1 cup medium salsa 3 medium zucchini, halved and sliced 2 medium carrots, sliced 1 cup frozen white corn 1 can (4 ounces) chopped green chilies 3 teaspoons ground cumin 2 teaspoons chili powder 1 teaspoon dried basil Shredded cheddar cheese and tortilla chips, optional Instructions Place chicken in a Dutch oven; add water.

Bring to a boil; reduce heat. Simmer, covered, 10-15 minutes or until chicken juices run clear. Remove chicken; cut into 1/2-in. cubes and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion, celery and garlic; cook and stir until tender.

Ingredients 2 pounds beef flank steak, cut into 1-inch pieces 2 to 4 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped 1/4 cup chopped onion 1 tablespoon chili powder 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 3 cans (15 ounces each) tomato puree 1 can (14-1/2 ounces) beef broth 1/4 cup minced fresh cilantro Instructions In a 4- or 5-qt. slow cooker, combine the first nine ingredients. Cook, covered, on low 6-8 hours or until meat is tender. Stir in cilantro.

Freeze option: Freeze cooled chili in freezer containers. To use, partially thaw in refrigerator overnight. Heat through in a saucepan, stirring occasionally and adding a little broth or water if necessary. www.tasteofhome.com

www.countryliving.com

voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2017 | 13

Battling Body Image

By Craig W. Armstrong

T

here is an old phrase, ‘to see ourselves as others see us.’ Unfortunately, we can’t, and when it comes to our body image we are without a doubt our harshest critics.

Body image issues can affect men and women, boys and girls. Men seem to struggle less, and that is a double standard. Our society has a way of putting pressure on women to be thin, beautiful and perfect; whereas men have more leeway to be overweight and unkempt. Either way, both sexes can suffer from a negative body image.

We are bombarded with images of ‘perfect’ people in entertainment and sports who appear to be flawless.

First, the images you see are more than likely altered to make these people look their best. Combine this with lighting, hairstyles, makeup artists and Photoshop, and you have the ‘perfect’ person.

Second, consider that these folks have trainers and chefs who cook them nothing but healthy food and drag them out of bed to work out. Finally, think about the sacrifice they make to look like that. It is not uncommon to hear performers tell stories about how they starved themselves for a certain role or to look a certain way. Does that sound like a real life to you?

The point being is that what you see around you is not a necessary reality. For this reason, you need to put your body in perspective and give yourself a break. Many people believe that change comes from the inside.

You have to accept who you are and work to better yourself—not just your appearance, but your overall health.

Start with a good foundation. This means seeing your doctor to make sure you are healthy enough to take this journey. See a dietitian or do your homework on what you should and shouldn’t eat. Find out what type of exercise program works for you. You didn’t become overweight overnight, and you 14 | January 2017 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

won’t be able to reverse it overnight. You must be patient with the process and more importantly with yourself.

Did you eat well today? Did you exercise today? If so, that’s a win and puts you one step closer to your goal.

There will absolutely be days when you don’t eat right and don’t exercise, and that’s okay! The key is to have more good days than bad. Consistency is the key. Don’t quit.

The power to control your choices, good or bad, comes from inside. You need to try and calm your mind, realize it is a journey and give it plenty of time. There will be a good day, and there will be bad days. Just don’t let the bad days turn into weeks and months. Always get back on the horse, as they say.

Your success lies within. Losing weight and getting healthy is a struggle for millions of people. This alone should tell you that it is not easy. To be successful, look inside, give yourself time and don’t ever quit.

New Year – New You 5 TIPS

By Jan Howery

T

ake the New Year as an invitation to get acquainted with the ‘old you’ and venture out to becoming a ‘new you.’

How to become a ‘new you?’ Part of becoming a ‘new you’ is knowing yourself and your body. Do you have healthy eating habits? Do you exercise regularly? Do you take care of you? Now is the time to become a ‘new you’ by taking care of you!

Step in to the New Year with a commitment to become the healthier, lighter, younger-looking and all-around better you that you’ve always wanted to be. The right food, exercise and lifestyle choices can put you on a course of becoming a ‘new you.’

Lose Weight! Losing just 10 pounds can do a whole lot more for you than helping you look better in your favorite jeans–though that’s plenty important. It can also lower your blood pressure, reduce your risk for a stroke, ward off dementia, lower your risk for uterine and breast cancer, and lower your cholesterol up to 10% as well!

Eat your Onions! You’ll get the most out of this veggie’s cancer-fighting antioxidants by eating it raw; cooking onions at a high heat significantly reduces the benefits of phytochemicals that protect against lung and prostate cancer. Try combining chopped raw onions with tomatoes, avocado, and jalapeño peppers for a blood sugar–friendly chip dip. Finish with a splash of lime juice.

Drink for your health!

From breakfast to dessert, smoothies are a quick fix that pleases everyone; they require little prep (just toss everything in a blender and press a button) and are completely customizable. To make smoothie

prep even easier, keep your freezer stocked with frozen fruit.

These deliciously frosty drinks can be sipped for a snack or a meal. Pay attention to portion sizes and higher-calorie ingredients (like frozen yogurt or nut butter) to make sure you don’t overdo it. A snack-sized smoothie should be about 150–200 calories, and to make your smoothie a healthful meal, shoot for more protein and 350–450 calories (and less sugary ingredients.)

Breakfast—Start the day with any of these fruit-filled drinks.

• Orange-Banana Smoothie • Honeydew-Almond Smoothie • Ginger-Peach Green Tea Smoothie • Melon Smoothies • Pineapple Mama Smoothie • Blueberry Blast Smoothie Post-Workout—Protein-packed smoothies are your best option after exercise, they’ll also give you a boost of fluid and electrolytes—give those muscles what they crave.

Drop a Decade from your Face!

Vitamin C is critical for your body and plays an important role in maintaining healthy, resilient skin. While young skin is full of vitamin C, aging skin naturally loses this nutrient over time. Other factors like exposure to UV light, pollutants and cigarette smoke compound the decline of vitamin C, contributing to signs of aging. You can fight back by replenishing your skin’s vitamin C levels to help to combat and even reverse time’s effect on your face.

Unplug! You don’t have to practice like a guru to benefit from yoga. Just 10 minutes a day can improve your balance, breathing and flexibility, and mental clarity. Yoga is a perfect way to reboot or unwind, depending on what you want it to do for you. voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2017 | 15

Jaipur, India–The Pink City Jantar Mantar

Hawa Mahal

Lunch at the Raj Palace

Article and Photographs

by Nancy Binder

I

n late fall, I visited India for the first time. I was overwhelmed by the colors, the sounds, the architecture, the food and the friendliness of the people.

I only spent three weeks touring but I can honestly say that India is the most exotic country that I have visited.

I spent several days in Jaipur, the capital of the state of Rajasthan which is in the northwestern part of India.

The Aravalli Hills, part of the Aravalli Mountain Range, overlook Jaipur, and while not as old as the Appalachians, they are the oldest mountains in Asia. Jaipur is the tenth largest city in India with a population of over 3 million residents.

Jaipur is called the pink city as many of the building were painted pink when Queen Victoria and her son Lord Albert (later King Edward VII) came to visit in 1876. Quite a few buildings are built with red or pink sandstone. The Hawa Mahal built in the late 1790s faces the main street so that the women of the royal court could view festivals without being seen by the commoners. It is connected to the City Palace where the current Maharaja resides. He is 19 years old and attends Oxford

16 | January 2017 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Amer Fort

University in England. His grandmother lives in the palace until the temperatures get too hot, then, we were told, she too goes to England. We toured some of the public spaces of the City Palace.

The Jantar Mantar, a celestial observatory, was built in the 1720s and it contains the world’s tallest sundial. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Astrology was and still is very important to some Indian people so accurate continued on next page

measurements of the celestial skies was a must. As an example, after a marriage match is made between the parents of a boy and girl, they next visit an astrologer who studies the couple’s birth dates and hours to determine the right date for the marriage. Arranged marriages still account for 88% of marriages in India today.

One day we had lunch at the Raj Palace, now a hotel.

Thali, served on a silver tray with tiny dishes containing samples of mostly vegetarian dishes, yogurt and rice in the center with mint and coriander sauce, tomato chutney and mango chutney. It was dramatically served with colonial dressed waiters bringing the trays which were announced by horn blowing.

The Amer Fort, built in 1592, is both a fort and a palace just outside Jaipur. It is in remarkably fine condition and is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. It sits atop a hill.

As we transferred from our motorcoach to the back of Jeeps for the ride up the narrow steep road to the fort, we stopped to watch two snake charmers entice their snakes out of the baskets. Upon entering the fort, there is a large plaza where decorated elephants bring tourists through a gate. The palace is the most visited site in Jaipur with more than 1.5 million visitors a year.

Traffic in Jaipur was horrendous and humorous at the same time. The traffic included the usual cars, trucks, buses, pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcyclists and also included cows, monkeys, horses, donkeys, camels and elephants. It was genuinely funny to see the rear of an elephant through the windshield of the motorcoach.

One evening we were treated as royalty at Rambagh Palace like the guests of the Maharaja from former days. Elephants led the procession into the palace, followed by camels, then we walked behind the camels and four horsemen on white stallions were behind us. A band played as we arrived. The pageantry was amazing. Once seated, two harem girls danced while a man playing a sitar and another on a drum accompanied them. The Indian and international food served buffet style was very good. It was quite the cultural experience.

I look forward to telling you more about India in the coming months.

Camel in Jaipur

For comments or travel related questions contact nancybinder@msn.com.

Rambagh Palace

Snake charmers City Palace voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2017 | 17

with winter er and a hope mis’s judgment, ety. D.L. Luke down.”

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Silence of the Bones

Eden Stuart kept a journal during the tumultuous years of 1858–1870 detailing life in Federal City as southern senators le the Union to build a new country. An army and war brewed in Congress. Stuart’s writings cover the troops encamped at Richmond; the battles fought at Bull Run, Chancellorsville, Seven Pines, Richmond and ppomattox, the deaths of Stonewall Jackson, Jeb Stuart, and General Lafayette, the surrender of the Confederacy. Also covered is the aermath and the assassination of President Lincoln, Booth’s co-conspirators, Johnson’s impeachment and the restoration of the Union.

Written by Bev Freeman Madison and her dog discover a skull along the Appalachian Trail. Emotions overflow as she sees the empty eye sockets looking up at her. Madison feels pity for the lost one’s life. She knows the feelings of abandonment; what it’s like to be thrown out like trash.

She wants to be the voice of the skull. She silently asks, “Who put you in this lonely place? How did you die? And who are you?”

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God Knows What He is Doing

By Jim Burns “And we know that in all things, God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28 NKJV

O

s Hillman tells a story about how God’s purpose can prevail over our plans. From a very young age, Samuel Morse had a strong desire to be an artist. He had talent and was able to master his craft. Finally, the day came when he was able to sell some of his work. But the fulfillment of his dream was short-lived. It was difficult to make a living as an artist, and he suffered a series of personal setbacks.

Heartbroken, Samuel went to Europe to mull over his situation. On his return trip–aboard a ship crossing the Atlantic, Samuel heard about advances in electromagnetism. “If the presence of electricity can be made visible in any part of the circuit, I see no reason why intelligence may not be transmitted by electricity.”

Samuel worked hard. Acting on what he had learned on the ship, he invented the telegraph and developed Morse Code. Eventually, his projects received needed funding. In hindsight, Samuel said, “The only gleam of hope, and I can-

not underrate it, is from confidence in God. When I look upward, it calms any apprehension for the future, and I seem to hear a voice saying, ‘If I clothe the lilies of the field, shall I not also clothe you?’ Here is my strong confidence, and I will wait patiently for the direction of Providence.”

Without Samuel Morse’s initial inventions, we might not have faxes, e-mail or the Internet today. God’s plans are not always our plans, for His plans often carry an even greater purpose. “The LORD works out everything for His own ends– even the wicked for a day of disaster.” (Interpretation, Proverbs 16:4)

“You can talk with someone for years, everyday, and still, it won’t mean as much as what you can have when you sit in front of someone, not saying a word, yet you feel that person with your heart, you feel like you have known the person for forever....connections are made with the heart, not the tongue.”

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COLD WEATHER AND DRY SKIN Dr. Jami Reaves’s Top Skincare Products

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he products you use have a big impact on the health and appearance of your skin. Here are my favorite picks:

Lotion: Del-Ray Sorbolene cream is excellent for dry skin.

Cetaphil, Vanicream, and CeraVe are also good choices.

Soap: Bar cleansers contain much less alcohol than body washes, so they are more hydrating. I like Cetaphil and Lever 2000.

Shaving cream: Aveeno makes great products that work well for most people, including those with sensitive skin or coarse hair.

Facial cleanser: Purpose is a good choice for normal skin.

Patients with dry or acne-prone skin should see a dermatologist for advice.

Acne treatment: Products with salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide are the best over-the-counter choices. Prescription agents are usually more effective.

Sunscreen: Choose a broad-spectrum formula with an SPF of 30 or higher. My favorites are Neutrogena Ultra Sheer because it doesn’t feel greasy and the new product line from Sun Bum. Managing Your Psoriasis Psoriasis is a noncontagious autoimmune disease that causes skin cells to grow too quickly, causing recurring “flares” of itchy, painful patches or bumps on the skin.

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Light therapy: CallaDerm offers XTRAC, a painless laser therapy that is targeted to the affected area of the skin.

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Biologics: Biologic injections are made from living cells developed in a laboratory. They are used in moderate or severe cases of psoriasis to help prevent the abnormal immune system processes that cause the disease.

Avoiding Triggers: Psoriasis flares can be activated by different circumstances. Try keeping a journal to identify your triggers. Common triggers include, stress, cold, dry weather, skin injury by vaccination, sunburn, cut, and/or a scratch and some medications.

For a complete examination and medical advice, call for an appointment with Dr. Reaves: (423) 408-1504.

Anxiety or Stress?

S

tress is your body’s way of responding to any kind of demand or threat. When you feel threatened, your nervous system responds by releasing a flood of stress hormones, including adrenaline and cortisol, which rouse the body for emergency action. Your heart pounds faster, muscles tighten, blood pressure rises, breath quickens, and your senses become sharper. These physical changes increase your strength and stamina, speed your reaction time, and enhance your focus. This is known as the “fight or flight” or mobilization stress response and is your body’s way of protecting you.

When stress is within your comfort zone, it can help you to stay focused, energetic, and alert. In emergency situations, stress can save your life—giving you extra strength to defend yourself, for example, or spurring you to slam on the brakes to avoid an accident. Stress can also help you rise to meet challenges. Stress is what keeps you on your toes during a presentation at work, sharpens your concentration when you’re attempting the game-winning free throw, or drives you to study for an exam when you’d rather be watching TV. But beyond your comfort zone, stress stops being helpful and can start causing major damage to your mind and body.

Anxiety is an emotion—you feel nervous or scared. Stress is a physical response to something you feel threatened by— your heart beats faster, your breath comes quicker, and your muscles tense. It’s your body’s way of making you alert and prepared for action. Anxiety can be triggered by stress. It is considered a normal emotion. And it can help you focus when you face a challenge or threat. If you are occasionally experiencing a loss of appetite or sleep because of anxiety, that is normal for most people. But the people who have extreme fear and worry that won’t go away, or interferes with their jobs or relationships, may have an anxiety disorder. Some examples are generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder.

• Women are twice as likely as men to have panic attacks. Your risk is also higher if you’re under 35 or you have a chronic disease.

• You’re also at greater risk if you have money problems or have dealt with stressful life events.

• Medication can only manage the symptoms. The ones usually used to treat them are antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs. Other

medicines can help control physical symptoms like a fast heartbeat or shaking or trembling. But you also may need therapy for the underlying cause.

• In one study, people who did regular, vigorous exercise were 25% less likely to develop an anxiety disorder. Talk with your doctor about how to ramp up your exercise plan.

• Called exposure therapy, it involves doing the things that make you anxious, with the guidance of a therapist. It’s usually used along with relaxation exercises. But studies have shown that it doesn’t work as well as cognitive therapy, which focuses on finding and addressing the reason behind your anxiety. Source: www.webmd.com

voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2017 | 23

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Blooming Spring Bulbs Indoors

By April Hensley

N

ow that all the bright uplifting seasonal decorations have been packed away until next year, our indoors can look a little colorless and depressing. Add to that, everything outside is brown, dreary and frozen.

Our moods can take a deep dive after the quick-paced adrenaline rush of the holidays.

Looking forward to gardening can help brighten our spirits. Spring is only a little over three months away, but it can feel like an eternity on subzero mornings. You can add a refreshing touch of spring early by forcing bulbs to bloom indoors. You don’t have to like gardening to try your hand at it. It’s one of the simplest, most beautiful forms of indoor gardening.

Spring blooming bulbs need a period of dormancy to be able to bloom when the weather warms up. Planting bulbs indoors mimics spring temperatures and tricks the bulb into blooming. You will need to manually expose the bulbs to cold—not freezing—temperatures for at least a few weeks before planting. This is called stratification. Do this by putting the bulbs in the refrigerator in a bag in a back corner. Label them clearly so no one mistakes them for food. Also, there are readyto-plant indoor bulb kits that have been stratified.

• Bulbs often used are daffodils, paper whites, crocuses, amaryllis or any bulb that is spring blooming.

• Choose a decorative container to root the bulbs. Bulbs can be grown in water or dirt.

• If placing in water, use any container without a drain hole such as a vase where only the roots touch the water. Or fill a container with gravel or clear marbles and plant with the root end half covered. Keep water level below gravel.

• If planting in dirt, use a pot with a saucer to prevent overwatering. Bury the bulb two-thirds deep pointed side up in indoor potting soil. Keep moist.

• Place the container in a sunny room. In a short time you should see green start to emerge from the top of the bulbs.

• Depending on the type, it may take several weeks for it to bloom. Keeping out of direct sunlight helps blooms last longer.

• After the bloom fades, let bulb die back naturally. The leaves absorb nutrients from the sun to feed the bulb for next year’s blooms.

• When warm weather arrives, bulbs can be planted outdoors except amaryllis. It cannot withstand cold weather.

{

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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If you love Appalachian literature— suggested reads from Jan-Carol Publishing —Linda Hudson Hoagland, Author, Missing Sammy

Dumped by her boyfriend on their last camping trip for the season in the Adirondacks, Artemis and her dog are stranded in state preserved forest. Her search to find the county road, back home, turns into a homage to Ralph Waldo Emerson’s quote, “in the woods, we return to reason and faith.”

—Saundra G. Kelley

Storyteller, Listen to the Wind, Find the Story Within

“In Bev Freeman’s debut mystery novel, Silence of the Bones, a young woman’s discovery of a skeleton while on a trail run, eventually leads her to the discovery of not only her own true identity, but also the true evil identity of people she’s close to in her quiet northeast Tennessee community. Her quest to know the truth about what happened to her mother takes us from caves in the Unaka Mountains to the snowy peaks of Palmer, Alaska, as Freeman presents a puzzling mystery and a coming-of-age story all rolled into one.”

—Rita Quillen Author, Hiding Ezra

M

adison and her dog discover a skull along the Appalachian Trail.

Emotions overflow as she sees the empty eye sockets looking up at her. Madison feels pity for the lost one’s life. She knows the feelings of abandonment; what it’s like to be thrown out like trash. She wants to be the voice of the skull. She silently asks, “Who put you in this lonely place? How did you die? And who are you?”

Appalachians until her teens. Her family relocated to Florida where she graduated high school, married a Floridian, and raised a son. In 1993, with shattered dreams, she returned to Appalachia. She married a local, God-fearing man in 1996, and life is beautiful in Tennessee, with two spirited grandsons living close by. A member of The Lost State Writers Guild, she enjoys a large audience on Facebook.

BEV FREEMAN

Bev Freeman was born in Virginia and lived in the D.L. Luke

D. L. Luke, author of the children’s book B: The Tale of the Halloween Cat, also known as Diana Denner, was born in New York City in 1965. A published short-story writer and painter, Denner earned a free education and graduated in 1993 from The New School in New York City with a Bachelor’s of Arts in Fiction Writing and American Literature. Editor for New York State Watch, Denner also works as a community inclusion counselor for ARC Rensselaer. She owns an old Dutch Colonial home in upstate New York and is working on the completion of her second children’s book How the Dog Saved the Squirrel from the Hawk.

“There are some characters you don't forget, and Madison McKenzie is a member of that elite group. On her 21st birthday, Madison learns her life has largely been a lie after a solo trek on the Appalachian Trail and discovery of a woman’s skull, and much later, a precious amulet that matches the one she’s worn all of her life.

Madison’s task is to solve the mystery of the broken heart but in the process, she uncovers secrets long hidden.”

SILENCE OF THE BONES

—Billy W. Harp, Author, Failed Dawn

“Artemis and her dog are left deserted and alone with winter approaching, in the Adirondacks, with only a prayer and a hope for survival. Real and imaginary fears cloud Artemis’s judgment, but not her desire to reach the county road and safety. D.L. Luke tells an exciting story that you cannot put down.”

ADIRONDACKS ARTEMIS

“Author D.L. Luke vividly portrays the intriguing tale of one of life’s greatest fears—being lost in the wilderness. In Adirondacks Artemis, myriad flashbacks unravel Artemis’s past, as she faces not only her present fears, but fears for the future with only her dog and past experiences to guide her. Through her lonely introspection, her strengths and weaknesses are revealed.”

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COPYRIGHT 2016 AUTHOR PHOTO © ROSHEENA BOVE COVER DESIGN: TARA SIZEMORE JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC JANCAROLPUBLISHING.COM

Illustrated by

GINNY WALL

COPYRIGHT 2016 JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC JANCAROLPUBLISHING.COM

“The past unremembered is a void, unexamined, a loss. Craig’s recollection of a life in the light of logic and reason gives us the answer to an age-old question; the glass is not half-full or half-empty, we’re all still pouring. Have a taste. Looking back, we are all amazed that not only did we make it this far, we made it at all. Craig’s eyeballing of childhood, choices and chances—no rose colored glasses here—confirms what we all know to be true. Family, friends, love.”

—Tony Scales

Author of Natural Tunnel: Nature's Marvel in Stone and The Breaks: The Grand Canyon of the South

“Wait For Me, Boys! Wait For Me! is a profoundly entertaining read that is not just limited to Dr. Ashbrook, but reflects much about the many individuals who grew up with him in a small Appalachian town on the banks of Clinch River. His story allows the reader to realize that we truly are the ones who lived life to the fullest. His book is exceptionally rewarding.”

—J. Michael O’Connor

Author of Ghosts of my Mind and His Wars His Honor: A Simple Teacher

ow could a small child’s pleading to his friends, “Wait for me boys,” become one of the most important requests of a lifetime? How could a promise to a parent become a life-shaping focal point, which seemed to be an unachievable ambition? How could religion be both a blessing and an insensitive malediction? Wait For Me, Boys! Wait For Me! settles these and many other uncertainties we all may have faced throughout our lives, while revealing a noticeable connection of life’s events and purpose.

Craig Ashbrook was raised in Cleveland, Virginia.

He earned multiple degrees in the field of physical geography and completed his doctoral degree at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. He has a son, Noah, of Bristol, Virginia and a daughter, Farah Monday Ashbrook Scruggs, of Clemmons, North Carolina. He makes his home in Bristol, Virginia with his wife, Myra. Find Craig on Facebook at www.facebook.com/craig.ashbrook.

Amber D. Tran

THE MADISON MCKENZIE FILES (BOOK 1) U.S. $10.95 • CAN $14.45

U.S. $14.95 • CAN $19.50 COPYRIGHT 2016 COVER DESIGN: TARA SIZEMORE JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC JANCAROLPUBLISHING.COM

W

HELEN THATCHER

F M ,B !

WAIT FOR ME!

“A richlyAIT detailed OR debut E novel OYS of a Southern girl's 1960s childhood.”

“Jacobs is a talented, descriptive Growing up on Clinch River and the Years Beyond: writer who provides particularly An Autobiographical Sketch lush descriptions...”

“A brief but enjoyable historical novel.”

DR. CRAIG M. ASHBROOK

U.S. $14.95 • CAN $19.45

Musings from Jonesborough Porch

Helen Thatcher is a Scot who came from a small town in Scotland to Tennessee with her Chattanooga-born husband. They settled in Jonesborough where they have enjoyed living, gardening, caring for two Airedales and numerous cats.

Bev Freeman

H

Amber D. Tran

orn and raised in . After graduating versity, she moved in software devellives in Alabama nd and miniature Moon River is her

a novel

a

his offering is of essays created, over time, while sitting on a delightful porch in Jonesborough, Tennessee’s oldest town. The essays are of sightings from the porch itself and of musings on scenes and events remembered while enjoying the peaceful ambience that only a screened porch can afford.

COPYRIGHT 2016

WAIT FOR ME, BOYS! WAIT FOR ME!

e in a small town in northern West Virginia, t exploits the brutal honesty in growing up fast, sing too soon.

moon river

o crumble when Abigail befriends the attractive son, a girl who is also interested in uncovering urrounding Ryan. However, everything comes 2004, and Abigail must decide if her new jourone.

moon river

Musings from a Jonesborough Porch

COVER ILLUSTRATION: ROBERT L. CONWAY COVER DESIGN: TARA SIZEMORE AUTHOR PHOTO: BILL FREEEMAN JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC JANCAROLPUBLISHING.COM

COPYRIGHT 2016 AUTHOR PHOTO: HEATHER BOHM-TALLMAN PHOTOGRAPHY ILLUSTRATOR/COVER DESIGN: RAE MARIE SCHAUER JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC JANCAROLPUBLISHING.COM

om author Amber D. Tran, a tale of adolescence ds. Nine-year-old Abigail Kavanagh first meets ummer of 1999. A shy and awkward boy, Ryan ramed glasses while Abigail is determined to to know about him. The next few summers are es, adventures in and around the West Virginian e night conversations where they share their nal thoughts.

Silence of the T Bones

— Kirkus Reviews

AVAILABLE

“every story needs a book”

Romance, Heartbreak, Historical Fiction

NOW

jancarolpublishing.com amazon.com barnesandnoble.com DR. CRAIG M. ASHBROOK

Purchase on amazon.com Use code HE for discount.

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“every story needs a book”

Visit our website jancarolpublishing.com to view all of our titles and sign up for our book of the month newsletter. All books are available on amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com.

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Mystery on the Appalachian Trail

By Pam Blair

A

fter almost a decade of living in the Tri-Cities region, I never cease to marvel at the beauty around us. When friends from out of state come to visit, my husband and I always include a drive to breathtaking Watauga Lake on our tour of local sights. One of our traditions has been to take them up to Wilbur Dam, with nearby access to the Appalachian Trail. All of our friends have heard of the famous trail, and

Pam Blair

we like to take their photo by a sign that graces an entrance to it. Being photographed by the sign always generates excitement because they have proof they were “on the trail,” if only for a few yards out of the 2,200 miles it covers. No matter that the sign was misspelled—“Appalachain Trail.” It was just part of the fun!

Recently, when friends from North Carolina came to visit, we took them to see the trail. But wait, the sign was gone! It looked like it had been ripped right off its metal pole. What in the world could have happened to it? We walked up the little hill past the sign that used to be there, and then we saw it: a large sign that said “Warning! Bears are active in the area!” Well, my dear friend turned on a dime and streaked back down the hill so fast, I thought she must have spotted a bear. The rest of us were slower to leave but still cautious as we looked around for bears. Spotting not a single bear, we looked at the ground to see if that darn sign had been knocked down and—nothing. As we descended the hill, I took one last look over my shoulder, half-expecting to see a bear shaking the missing sign held firmly in its paw.

I’m certain those bears were active because they were offended by the misspelled sign and took it on themselves to remove it. If anyone knows the whereabouts or fate of the Appalachain Trail sign, please contact Smokey the Bear. He’s been busy warning people about wildfires, but his other duties include keeping the trail well-marked. Hope to see you out there, if you can still find the trail!

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Pam Blair is a freelance writer who has authored and edited numerous publications, including a book titled LIFE IS PRECIOUS: LESSONS IN HEALTHY LIVING, SURVIVING CANCER, AND RECOVERING FROM GRIEF, (Chapel Hill Press). She is a southerner at heart, having lived throughout the South during her career with the Department of Veterans Affairs. She enjoys traveling, reading, yoga, and loves to cook for friends and family. Pam can be reached at pblair919@aol.com.

voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2017 | 27

The Appalachian Woman HERITAGE, CULTURE AND FUTURE Celebrating Today’s Appalachian Woman

By Tammy Robinson Smith

W

elcome to The Appalachian Woman, a monthly column that focuses specifically on what the women of Appalachia do, or have done. Each month I will highlight the culture and customs the women of Tammy Robinson Smith Appalachia have traditionally carried out and how those things have been handed down, or in some cases lost. And, I will look at how it all relates to today’s woman of Appalachia and what she is doing, now. It is a big topic and covers lots of information, some entertaining, some surprising and some enlightening. However, hopefully, it will all be enjoyable reading about this place I am proud to call, “home.”

I think it’s important to state right up front that I am a “from here.” I have lived in Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia most of my life, with brief stints in Nashville, Hampton Roads and Toledo. However, my roots are firmly established now in Bristol, VA, right on the VA-TN line. My family hails from deep Southwest VA. So, there’s no doubt about it, I have Central Appalachia blood coursing through my veins. I don’t have anything against the “come heres,” but, I must admit there is a certain amount of pride in being here first!

28 | January 2017 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Just where and what is considered Appalachia? According to the Appalachian Regional Commission, Appalachia is home to more than 25 million people and covers 420 counties and almost 205,000 square miles and includes all of West Virginia and parts of Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. It’s a lot of people and places. But, believe it or not, within those many, many regions of Appalachia, there are a lot of different cultures and customs. So, each month, we’ll take a closer look at what’s happening with the women in this huge region called Appalachia. You may actually be surprised at some of the cultures and customs you did not realize were actually Appalachian!

The women of Appalachia have contributed so much in the past and continue to contribute in significant ways to the developing future of Appalachia. I am excited to explore the fascinating women and their traditions that have put their stamp on the collective history of this region and the ones who continue to shape it today. Let’s kick it off this month and continue kicking it off this year as Voice Magazine for Women “Celebrates the Women of Appalachia.”

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Tammy Robinson Smith, Author of the novel EMMYBETH SPEAKS, a novel that explores 1970s life in small town Appalachia. Available on Amazon and B&N.

Happy New Year!

By Lisa Smith

T

his is the time of year when many of us make a renewed commitment to eat healthier and lose those extra pounds. I am a firm believer that making small changes throughout the year is far less daunting than trying to make several major changes all at once. So here are a few of my favorite healthy eating tips: Lisa Smith 1. Use smaller plates. This “tricks” your mind into thinking the food portion is larger.

2. Try to limit portions of one favorite unhealthy food per week. An example would be to enjoy a snack sized piece of chocolate instead of a fullsized candy bar. I choose small, individually wrapped dark chocolate candy to satisfy the occasional craving.

3. Try one new vegetable or fruit per week.

4. Try roasting a variety of vegetables in a very small amount of heart healthy olive oil. You will be surprised by how delicious those veggies are when roasted!

5. Finally, truly commit to exercise. I know sometimes it is hard, but you CAN do it! Park in the farthest spot from the store when shopping. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. MOVE your body every day!

Remember little steps add up to miles!

Here is a delicious healthy recipe to get your year started!

I’ll see you in February! - Lisa

Roasted Green Beans and Tomatoes 1 lb. Fresh Thin Green Beans, trimmed 1 c. Cherry Tomatoes, rinsed 1 T. Extra Virgin Olive Oil 1 tsp. Dried Oregano ½ tsp. salt ¼ tsp. freshly ground pepper Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Combine all the ingredients and spread out on a lined baking sheet. Roast for 20 minutes. Enjoy!

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Lisa Smith is the Executive Vice-President of Living Faith Television.Watch Everyday Manna with Lisa on Living Faith Television on WLFG/WAGV/WLFB stations. Show times are: Monday through Friday at 2:00pm and 4:30pm and 11:00 pm. Also join her as host of Living Faith Now on Monday and Tuesday at 10:00am, 8:00pm and 1:00am. Find her on Facebook: Everyday Manna, YouTube: Life Everyday with Lisa, and on the web: www.everydaymanna.net.

Wishing everyone a Happy New Year!

We look forward to serving all of you in 2017!

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

voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2017 | 29

Welcome to the new magazine, Modern Day Appalachian Woman…

Appalachian Living!

On the cover…

Janie Jessee Publisher/Owner Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc. (Photo by Brandon Goins.

Photo location at Rock’s Wood Fired Pizza)

B

eing from the Appalachian region, I am ‘from around here’ and I am proud of my roots.

I am a country gal, raised on a farm and in a blue collar working family. Christian faith and strong work ethics formed my foundation in life. Growing up surrounded by beautiful mountains and endless lakes, I am a believer that there is no place like home. I have been blessed to have traveled near and far and that has convinced me even more, there is no place like our Appalachian home!

welcome

Janie C. Jessee, Editor

We women from the Appalachian region know how our strength and our determination supports our accomplishments. Appalachia 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. Our focus, with this brand new print and digital addition to Voice Magazine for Women is to broaden the ‘voice’ of women in this region.

Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc. is expanding our footprint to focus on even more women.

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.

Contact us for details at submissions@jancarolpublishing.com.

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

30 | January 2017 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Modern Day

APPALACHIAN WOMAN APPALACHIAN LIVING

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