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3 Strategies to Help You Achieve Your Goals 2020 Color of the Year Ketogenic Diet for You?

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January 2020 | Volume 18 | Issue 1

January Hot Hunk Hunt! The December “Hot Hunk” was John Legend on page in the Premier Homes and Properties—Realtor Robin Miller ad on page 12.

Chris Evans 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 tickets to Barter Theatre.

Congratulations to: Lisa Botts Elizabethton, TN as the winner in the December Hot Hunk Hunt!

Thanks to ALL for sending in your entry!

Name: Address: City: State: Zip Code: Phone Number: July Hot Hunk Email:

Hunt!

The April “Hot Hunk” was Robert Downey Jr. on page 31.

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

Mail this submission form to: Voice Magazine P.O. Box 701 Johnson City, TN 37605 or e-mail: hothunk@voicemagazineforwomen.com Deadline for submission is January 20, 2020. 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.

2020 Color of the Year

Jan-Carol Publishing

3 Strategies to Help You Achieve your Goals

JCP Featured Books

The Relationship Between Eating and Exercise

JCP Call for Submissions

Malawi– Liwonde National Park Nancy Binder 8

Potato Magic! Pam Blair 10

What is a Ketogenic Diet?

Stop Obsessing.

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The Joy of Aging

Recycling in the Garden

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Spiritually Speaking 28

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From the EDITOR

ello 2020! It just sounds exciting when you say it! It is natural to hope for new things and a new beginning in the new year, but disappointment and discouragement can arise quickly when yesterday’s ‘old’ moves right into the ‘new.’ It is easy to have a false hope that when the clock strikes midnight into the New Year, the all ‘new’ starts and magically the ‘old’ ends. Unfortunately, it does not happen that way. But setting attainable goals, time allowance to achieve those goals, and seeking to make a change creates the desired ‘new’ for the New Year. So, start this New Year by believing that God’s blessings will be plenty in 2020! What’s new for Voice Magazine for Women in 2020? Voice Magazine for Women will have its own published cookbook! JCP will be publishing a cookbook sponsored by Voice Magazine for Women and we are accepting entries. Readers are asked to submit their favorite recipe. See page 21 for details and deadlines. We have limited spacing, and recipes will be carefully selected for the categories. To enter your recipe for consideration, email: communications@jancarolpublishing.com What’s new for JCP in 2020? We have our focus on audio books and wider distribution. Stay tuned for more details! Also, we are bringing back our Believe and Achieve Award. See details on page 21. For our Voice Magazine for Women advertisers and business affiliates, watch for reduced and special monthly advertising rates. We will continue our focus on bringing local articles and information each month, but will have new additions to our group of contributing writers. Join us as one of our contributing writers! We are looking for experts in coupon shopping, decorating, crafts, cooking, health, fashion or topics of interest to women. Email: publisher@jancarolpublishing.com for submissions guidelines, etc. Follow us on Facebook and join in the fun of the giveaways and other happenings. To request our e-newsletter offering recipes, latest happenings, and updates, email office@jancarolpublishing.com. 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 a supportive part of our team. 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 2020. 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

“ 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 JANUARY CONTRIBUTING WRITERS April Hensley Cindy K. Sproles

Nancy Binder Pam Blair

Ken Heath Deana Landers

TLC PUBLISHER/ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Nancy Williams nancywilliams@thelauruscompany.com SALES Office Phone/Fax: 423.926.9983 OFFICE Savannah Bailey Communications Director/Production Editor communications@jancarolpublishing.com GRAPHICS/PRODUCTION Tara Sizemore - Senior Graphics Designer tara@voicemagazineforwomen.com graphics@jancarolpublishing.com Cheryl Allen - Office/Typesetting Assistant office@voicemagazineforwomen.com office@jancarolpublishing.com INTERN Publishing Research/Marketing Chanie Garner, ETSU DISTRIBUTION Karen Corder Staff JCP Internships Available PUBLISHED BY JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC. (Volume 18, 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. © 2020 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 | January 2020 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

2020 Color of the Year E ach year Pantone announces the color of the year. That color will be seen in the designers’ fashions and it will be showcased in home décor. This color sets the style and tone throughout the year in all things. What is the 2020 color of the year? Classic Blue! According to Pantone, this timeless and enduring blue hue, PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue, is elegant in its simplicity. Suggestive of the sky at dusk or a distant view of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the thought-provoking Classic Blue highlights our desire for a dependable and stable foundation. The Classic Blue color resonates assuring qualities of peace and tranquility. In addition, Pantone stated that Classic Blue is imprinted in our psyches as a restful color and the reflective blue tone fosters resilience. Classic Blue aids concentration, brings clarity, and centers our thoughts. Classic Blue can be seen in the sky, water, and our view of the mountains; it surrounds us every day. So this year, display Classic Blue in your home for harmony and add the soft color to your wardrobe for an inner peace and strength. It can be bright, lovely, and soothing all at the same time.

Be inspired by Pantone’s Classic Blue with fashion from Anna Baiguera, Tod’s, Swarovski, LK Bennett, Dannijo, Miss KG, Untold, Damsel in a Dress, Dorothy Perkins, Almost Famous, and Exclusives. (Photo Setthat.com)

voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2020 | 5

3 Strategies to Help You Achieve your Goals in the Year Ahead

anuary is a great time to set professional and personal goals. While there’s no universal formula for success, successful people often cite the importance of setting goals and how doing so was integral to their success. The following are some strategies that may help people achieve their goals in the years ahead.

1. Make it a group effort. A 2013 study from a University of Connecticut researcher found that there is a high level of correlation between users’ exercise activities and their participation in digital health communities. Such communities served as motivating factors for people aiming to live healthier lives. Relying on others for support, insight, and motivation can be a great way to achieve your goals, no matter what those goals are.

2. Set goals big and small. No goal is too small, and no big goal should be considered beyond reach. In fact, achieving small goals can provide motivation and inspiration along the way to realizing your larger goals. Devise a one-month plan, a six-month plan and a 12-month plan for the year ahead. The one-year plan can serve as your big goal, while the one and six month plans can serve as small motivators and great ways to track your progress en route to achieving your larger goal.

3. Write down why you’re setting goals. People set goals for various reasons, and writing down the reasons they’re pursuing their goals can serve as inspiration when challenges arise. For example, if you aspire to change careers to spend more time with your family, writing that down can provide motivation to keep looking for opportunities when a job search stalls or feels fruitless. A new year is a great time to set goals. A handful of strategies can help people set their goals and keep them on track toward achieving them.

6 | January 2020 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

The History Behind Popular New Year’s Traditions

ew Year’s celebrations can be traced back thousands of years to ancient Babylon. And as with many holidays with deep histories, traditions are the hallmark of many New Year’s celebrations. While many people perform these traditions by rote, it can be interesting to delve into the history behind various components of New Year’s celebrations.

Champagne

Champagne, a sparkling wine from a specific region of France, was used in the baptism of the Frankish warrior Clovis, according to the Champagne Committee of France. Champagne manufacturers eventually linked the bubbly to festive occasions with family, and New Year’s celebrations became another ideal time to pop the cork on a bottle.

Ball drop

While not everyone can venture to New York City’s famed Times Square to watch the ball drop in person, millions tune in around the world to watch it on television. Original celebrations in New York centered around listening to the bells of Trinity Church ring at midnight, but the New Year’s Eve celebrations were later moved to the New York Times building in 1904. Publisher Adolph Ochs asked his chief electrician Walter Palmer to create something visually appealing. Inspired by the maritime tradition of dropping a time ball at harbor so that sailors could set their own timepieces while at sea, Palmer devised the idea of dropping an illuminated ball on New Year’s Eve. This has been tradition since 1907.

Resolutions

New Year’s resolutions can be traced to the Mesopotamians. Ancient Babylonians also made spoken resolutions during a 12-day-long New Year Festival. These resolutions were oaths made to the sitting or new king and were considered essential to keeping the kingdom in the gods’ favor. The Romans also had a similar tradition of swearing oath to royalty at the start of the year. Many of these traditions merged into modern resolution-making, according to Live Science. These are but a few New Year’s traditions. The history behind these traditions is storied, just like the holiday itself.

The Relationship Between Eating and Exercise

ccording to the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), adequate food and fluid should be consumed before, during, and after exercise. Following that advice can help men and women maintain their blood glucose concentration during exercise, which allows them to maximize their performance and improves their recovery time. Some people understandably may feel that eating before exercising seems counterintuitive, as food may contribute to feelings of sluggishness that would make it hard to maximize a workout. But what people eat and drink prior to working out is important, as the right foods can make a positive impact while the wrong foods can have the opposite effect. The American Heart Association (AHA) and the ACSM recommend hydrating with water prior to working out. The ACSM recommends drinking between two and three cups of water two to three hours before exercising. It’s also important to continue hydrating during a workout, as the ACSM recommends drinking between 1⁄2 and one cup of water every 15 to 20 minutes during a workout. After a workout, the ACSM recommends drinking two to three cups of water for every pound lost during the exercise session. Food also plays a vital role in maximizing a workout and improving recovery time. The AHA recommends fueling up on healthy carbohydrates, such as whole-grain cereals, wholewheat toast, or low-fat or fat-free yogurt, two hours before exercising. Doing so might pose a problem for early morning exercise enthusiasts, and in such instances the AHA advises

It’s Okay to Miss the 10,000-Step Standard Over the last several years, many people have embraced the notion that 10,000 daily steps are the way to being physically fit. Health experts espouse that notion and trainers endorse it, but is there scientific proof behind the recommendation? The 10,000-step standard—which equates to roughly five miles, depending on a person’s stride, length, and speed—has some surprising origins that are not necessarily rooted in medical science. I-Min Lee, a professor of epidemiology at the Harvard University T. H. Chan School of Public Health and the lead author of a new study published in May 2019 in The Journal of the American Medical Association, wanted to explore the origins of the 10,000step recommendation. She discovered the guideline evolved from a marketing strategy devised by a Japanese

eating a piece of fruit such as an apple or banana five to 10 minutes before beginning a workout. Avoid saturated fats and a lot of healthy protein prior to working out, as it takes longer for these fuels to digest in the stomach. Until foods are digested, muscles may not get all of the oxygen and energy-delivering blood they need during a workout, so it’s best to stick with foods that the body can digest more quickly. The Mayo Clinic notes that it’s also important to make food a part of your post-workout routine. Eating a post-workout meal that contains both carbohydrates and protein can aid muscle recovery and replace glycogen stores that help increase energy levels after working out. The most effective way to exercise involves healthy foods, which can improve performance and lead to quicker post-workout recovery.

company called Yamasa Toki. That firm introduced its new step-counter in 1965, naming it Manpo-Kei, which translated into “10,000 steps meter.” They marketed the meter using the Japanese character for “10,000,” which resembles a man walking. As a result, many people adopted the 10,000-step approach, even though its medical benefits might not have been proven. This isn’t to suggest that taking 10,000 steps per day cannot be part of a healthy living plan. In fact, such a goal promotes physical activity, which is a key component of a healthy lifestyle. However, simply taking 10,000 steps per day might not be enough to achieve longterm health. Lee conducted her own research to test if the Japanese were onto something by inadvertently setting the 10,000-step standard. She found that an increase in walking correlated to lower mortality rates among more than 16,000 elderly American women. However, when these women reached about 7,500

steps the mortality rates leveled out, suggesting that those extra 2,500 steps might not be necessary. Even the manufacturer of one of the most popular fitness trackers, Fitbit, says that users’ step goals can vary depending on need, and that goals may even shift over time. People who are looking to lose weight and maintain their existing health will need to modify their step count accordingly. Working with a qualified trainer or using a medically sanctioned training program can help people exercise safely and effectively. voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2020 | 7

MALAWI

Liwonde National Park Article and Photographs By Nancy Binder

alawi is a small country in southeastern Africa. Our first stop was the capital, Lilongwe, where we had a nice lunch at a guest house. As it was springtime, the jacaranda trees were in full bloom. After our brief visit in the capital, we flew to Blantyre. Blantyre is known as the financial and commercial capital of Malawi with a population of almost one million people. Blantyre, founded in 1876, was named after Blantyre, Scotland, the birthplace of physician, missionary, and explorer David Livingstone. In Blantyre we visited the St. Michael and All Angels Church, which is said to be the first permanent Christian Church erected between the Zambezi and the Nile Rivers. It is an amazing edifice built between 1888 and 1891 by locals who had no previous experience in this type of construction. Rev. David Scott, who had no architectural training, designed and managed the construction of the church. It is estimated that 81 different forms of bricks make up the church, all made onsite from local clay and fired in wood burning kilns. The church is still an active Presbyterian church, and since 1991 it is partnered with the Hiland Presbyterian Church in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

St. Michael and All Angels Church 8 | January 2020 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Elephant in Shire River Liwonde National Park is the most popular national park in Malawi. We approached the park by boat on the Shire River. Shire is pronounced Shy-Re in Malawi. When we reached the park border, the boat docked at an entrance pier and paid our fee. We were so amazed to see so many hippopotamuses in the river. This stretch of the river definitely has more hippos than I have ever seen in one place. As we made our way to Mvuu Camp, (mvuu is the Chewa name for hippopotamus), we saw many very large crocodiles and elephants near the shore. When we arrived at Mvuu Camp we were welcomed with cold drinks before being shown to our cabins. About sunrise the next morning, we boarded a boat for a safari on the river. The kingfisher birds were quite active diving for fish. We saw brown kingfishers, pied kingfishers, and tiny malachite kingfishers. The malachite kingfishers were fascinating to watch. They are only about five inches from beak to tail and so colorful. Further down the river we saw a family of elephants approaching the water. They had come to drink and to bathe in the river. Three of the young male elephants went continued on next page

into the water to frolic and play together, jumping up on each other’s backs and play fighting. After emerging from the water, the elephants threw dust on their wet bodies to suffocate the insects clinging to their skin. A few of the elephants scratched their underElephant sides on termite mounds. I’m sure the termites didn’t like that, as there was so much of their habitat to repair after the scratching! We saw hippos returning to the water from a night of grazing. Their skin is very susceptible to sunburn so they stay in water during the day and emerge in the evening to feed. Hippos are very dangerous animals and surprisingly fast. Hippopotamus means river horse in Greek. They can run up to 19 mph for a short distance. A male hippo weighs about 3400 pounds and a female about 2900 pounds. A hippo can eat about 150 pounds of grass a night. In the water they submerge themselves and resurface to breathe every three to five minutes. Even when they are sleeping they surface to breathe without waking up. Yawning shows their incisors and canines as a threat to other hippos and animals. They live in pods with a dominant male, but go out to graze individually. When on land Hippos try to show how large they are by flinging their feces high in the bushes by spinning their tail while they are defecating. Liwonde National Park is about 200 square miles and has 80 miles of fencing to help eliminate wildlife-human conflict. The Malawi government has contracted with the non-profit

Hippos and elephants

Africa Parks to manage and operate the park. In a recent survey the elephant count was 578. Poaching had been a problem before Africa Parks took over. Between 2014 and 2017, 50 elephants and two rhinos were killed by poachers. Rangers “horseplay” removed over 18,000 snares used to catch large animals. They have introduced big cats back in the park. Two male lions were brought into the park in 2018 and we saw both of them on our late afternoon safari. Four cheetahs were introduced in 2017, but we didn’t see them. One afternoon as I was relaxing before our next safari, a four foot monitor lizard swaggered across the lawn. They walk swishing from side to side letting everyone know “I’m the man! I’m the man!” What an amazing sight that was. Liwonde National Park is noted for the viewing of elephants and we were not disappointed. Elephants are very social animals living in matriarchal families. All of the females assist in taking care of the young. Male elephants leave their family at about 14 years old. They usually join up with older males. Elephants communicate with stomach rumbles, which can be quite loud. Being close to these behemoth animals is both awesome and scary. I never tire of watching them and their interactions with each other.

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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@sbcglobal.net.

Dugout canoe with fish traps voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2020 | 9

Potato Magic! By Pam Blair

ooking for a fresh way to dress up a serving of potatoes? Try this easy recipe for Hasselback potatoes, named after the Restaurant Hasselbacken in Stockholm where the splendid side dish originated. When I ordered my first Hasselback potato not long ago, there were exclamations of delight around the table due to its stunning presentation. It’s the answer to all your potato dreams at once: it has the crispiness of French fries, but it’s tender and creamy inside. Although it looks like it took hours to make, it’s simply a potato sliced into thin wedges, left joined at the bottom, and baked until the layers fan out into rounds of crispy bliss. How do you make the Hasselback? Any kind of potato will do. Russets are classic, but you can also use Yukon Golds, red, or sweet potatoes. For easy slicing, place two wooden spoons on either side of a potato, lengthwise, and slice straight down into the potato, but don’t cut all the way through. The spoons will hold the potato in place while you make the slices as thick or thin as you like. Next, brush the outside of the potatoes with melted butter or olive oil before baking, and then brush them again halfway through the baking time. The second application of fat is key. When you first cut the potatoes, the slices are too tight for the butter or oil to get down in the cracks. About halfway through cooking, the potatoes start to fan out, giving you more space to coax the fat down into the nooks and crannies. Plus the second coating ensures crispy perfection. Let your imagination soar with divine toppings, like the yummy ingredients in a loaded baked potato, savory chunks of prime beef au jus, or mouthwatering seafood like crab and lobster in a creamy sauce. The elegant appearance of the Hasselback will add star power to any meal and your friends and family will be very impressed!

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Pam Blair is a writer who has authored and edited numerous publications. She can be reached at pBlair919@aol.com.

10 | January 2020 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Hasselback Potatoes 4 large potatoes (Russet, Yukon Gold, red, or sweet potato) 4 Tbsp melted butter, olive or coconut oil, or a mix of each Kosher salt Pepper 1. Arrange a rack in the bottom third of the oven and heat to 425°F. 2. Wash and dry the potatoes. Scrub the potatoes clean and pat them dry. Alternatively, you can peel the skins off. 3. Cut slits in the potatoes, leaving the bottom intact. Cut parallel slits into each potato, stopping just before you cut through so that the slices stay connected at the bottom of the potato. Space the slices 1/8-inch to 1/4-inch apart. You can rest the potato between two wooden spoons and use them as a guide for when to stop slicing.

4. Brush the potatoes with half the fat. Arrange the potatoes in a baking dish. Brush the potatoes all over with half the butter or other fat, including the bottoms. 5. Season with salt and pepper. 6. Bake 30 minutes, then brush with more fat. After 30 minutes, the layers will start separating. You can nudge the layers apart if they’re still sticking together. Make sure some of the fat drips down into the space between the slices. 7. Bake another 30 to 40 minutes, until the potatoes are crispy on the edges and easily pierced in the middle with a knife. If you’re adding any extras, stuff those into the slits or sprinkle over the top 5–10 minutes before the end of cooking. (Total baking time is 60 to 70 minutes for average potatoes) 8. Serve immediately.

What is a Ketogenic Diet?

ietary trends typically exhibit varying degrees of staying power. So-called “fad diets” may not withstand long-term scrutiny, while approaches like the Mediterranean diet appear to be more effective and beneficial to short- and long-term health. Low-carb diets tend to garner lots of attention. One such diet making waves of late is the keto diet. Keto diets may vary, but many are built on a foundation of low carb intake and high protein consumption. While these diets are referred to as “keto diets,” the Harvard Medical School notes that a true ketogenic diet is different from the keto diets that have become so popular.

What is a ketogenic diet? A ketogenic dietary plan focuses on fat rather than protein. A ketogenic diet is low-carb and relies on fat to supply as much as 90 percent of a person’s daily calories.

How does a ketogenic diet work? The ketogenic diet tries to force the body into using a different type of fuel known as ketone bodies, which are a type of fuel produced by the liver from fat stores. This differs from other diets, which rely on glucose from carbohydrates to fuel the body. Getting the liver to create ketone bodies and reach a state of ketosis, in which the body is breaking down protein and fat for energy, isn’t necessarily easy, as it requires people to consume fewer than 20 to 50 grams of carbs a day. To put that in perspective, the Harvard Medical School notes that a medium-sized banana typically contains 27 grams

of carbohydrates. In addition, WebMD notes that reaching ketosis typically takes three to four days, and eating too much protein can interfere with the body’s ability to get there.

Is a ketogenic diet safe? The Harvard Medical School notes that a ketogenic diet is typically recommended to reduce the frequency of epileptic seizures in children. People considering a ketogenic diet to lose weight may end up disappointed and could even be putting their health in jeopardy. “While (the ketogenic diet) also has been tried for weight loss, only short-term results have been studied, and the results have been mixed,” said registered dietitian Kathy McManus, director of the Department of Nutrition at Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Women’s Hospital. “We don’t know if it works in the long term, nor whether it’s safe.” Others may look to a ketogenic diet to combat heart disease, certain brain diseases and even acne. However, WebMD notes that there is not enough research to support the idea that a ketogenic diet can help with any of these conditions. Ketogenic diets carry certain risks. The Harvard Medical School notes that such risks include nutrient deficiency, liver problems, kidney problems, and constipation. In addition, the sugar from carbohydrates aides brain function, so a low-carb diet like the ketogenic diet can have an adverse effect on the brain, potentially contributing to confusion and mood swings. People considering ketogenic diets or other popular low-carb approaches to nutrition should consult with their physicians before making any changes to their existing diets. voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2020 | 11

13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19.

Baked Avocado Eggs 4 servings

It’s National Keto Month! Here are a few Keto friendly meals to get you started or keep you going.

Low-Carb Bread If you’re on a low-carb diet, it’s worth your

time to try your hand at this low-carb bread recipe. It’s made with almond flour, eggs, and oil, and contains about a third of the carbs of regular bread. It’s moist and dense and works perfectly as breakfast toast or for your lunch sandwich preparation.

12 servings 6 egg yolks 6 egg whites 2 eggs 2 cups almond flour ⅓ cup oil 1 tablespoon baking powder Salt, to taste ¼ teaspoon of cream tartar 1. Preheat oven to 375°F. 2. Carefully separate 6 eggs, placing the yolks in a large bowl and the whites in a medium size bowl. 3. Place the 2 whole eggs in the large bowl with the yolks and add the oil. Beat together with a fork or whisk until smooth. 4. Add the almond flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt 12 | January 2020 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

to the egg yolk mixture. Stir the mixture with a spatula until well incorporated and set aside. 5. Add the cream of tartar to the egg whites and beat with a hand mixer until stiff peaks form. 6. Use a rubber spatula to transfer ⅓ of the whipped egg whites to the almond mixture and gently fold the batter together. 7. Add the next ⅓ of the whites to the batter and fold in until smooth. 8. Gently fold in the remaining egg whites just until the batter is smooth and no white streaks remain. 9. Line the bottom of an ungreased loaf pan with parchment paper and pour in the batter. 10. Bake for 40 minutes, until the top has set and formed a golden crust. 11. Let the loaf cool for 10 minutes before running a thin knife along the inside of the pan to release the sides of the loaf. Gently unmold the loaf from the pan and remove the parchment paper on the bottom. 12. Let the cake cool at room temperature for 1 hour before slicing.

2 avocados 4 eggs salt, to taste pepper, to taste ¼ cup bacon bits 1 cherry tomato, quartered 1 sprig fresh basil, chopped shredded cheddar cheese 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped 1. Preheat oven to 400°F. 2. Slice the avocados in half and remove the pits. 3. Place the avocado halves on a baking sheet and scoop out some of the flesh to make a bigger hole. 4. Crack one egg into each hole and season with salt and pepper. 5. Top with toppings of choice and bake for 15 minutes or until yolk reaches desired consistency. 6. Sprinkle with fresh herbs, as desired.

Fajita Hasselback Chicken 4 chicken breasts ½ onion, diced ½ yellow bell pepper, diced ½ red bell pepper, diced ½ green pepper, diced 2 tablespoons fajita spice mix 3 tablespoons salsa ½ cup cheddar cheese, grated

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. 2. Slice into the chicken several times, about ¼ inch apart, but only cut about 85% of the way through, leaving the bottom intact. 3. Cook the onions and peppers over a medium heat until softened, then stir in the fajita mix. 4. Stir in the salsa and sprinkle the cheese over. 5. Mix together until the cheese has melted. 6. Allow to cool to the touch, and then fill each segment of the chicken breast with about 1 teaspoon of the mixture. 7. Bake in the center of the oven for 18-22 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.

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Two Ingredient Pasta 1 serving 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 1 egg yolk 1. Add the mozzarella to a bowl and microwave for 1–2 minutes, until melted. 2. Allow the mozzarella to cool for 30 seconds. 3. With a spatula, gently fold the egg yolk into the cheese.

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4. Turn the mixture out onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. 5. Place another piece of parchment paper on top of the dough and press down with your hand until thin. 6. Remove the top piece of parchment and cut the dough into thin strips.

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7. Place the “pasta” on a rack and refrigerate for four hours or overnight. 8. Place the “pasta” in boiling water for one minute. 9. Drain into a colander and run cool water over the pasta to prevent sticking. 10. Serve with your favorite sauce and toppings. Source: These recipes are courtesy of tasty.com.

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423.262.0444 voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2020 | 13

Recycling in the Garden By April Hensley

e have all seen the news about the impact plastic is having on the world’s animals and environment. Pictures f lood social media of the sad effects of plastics that are not disposed of properly. So many things today are made of durable plastic that we can’t live without, such as car parts and even surgical implants that keep us alive. I’ve had a set of plastic mixing bowls for over 20 years that are still going strong. One-time use plastics seem to be the problem. Sixpack rings, water bottles, and food packages that get tossed after a short time are so light-weight the wind can blow them away to wreak havoc later. Plastics are clogging up landfills and oceans, and polluting nature’s beauty. As much as we use plastic every day, the problem isn’t going away anytime soon. Until businesses and scientists can come up with a way to address the issue, we can all do our part by recycling if there is a facility nearby. There are things we can do as gardeners to limit the impact plastic has on the earth. • When starting seeds, try to use paper pots. • Reuse plastic pots from nurseries and garden centers, or put them out for free on social media. • Use a refillable container instead of bottled water if possible. Cut used, plastic water bottles in half and use them for starter pots. • Reuse plastic and styrofoam cups from restaurants for potting plants and seed starting. Don’t forget to put holes in the bottom for drainage. • Try to buy items packaged in paper or glass. Glass jars can be reused for storage of seeds and natural fertilizers. Paper with food grade ink can be shredded in compost piles and raised beds. • Reuse yogurt, sour cream, and other food containers for garden pots. • Take reusable shopping bags to the farmers market, grocery store, and garden center. • Buy a reusable coffee cup. • Try to buy fruits and vegetables unpackaged, not in bags or Styrofoam trays wrapped in plastic

14 | January 2020 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

wrap. Farmer’s markets will come in handy for this with better prices for fresher, local produce. • Use newspapers instead of plastic fabric to eliminate weeds. After trying the two methods, eventually both had a few tough crabgrasses get through but trying to remove it from where it cut through the plastic was harder. Also, the newspapers decomposed where hardworking earthworms and ants burrowed through, making rich, black soil.

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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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IMPROVE WORKPLACE PRODUCTIVITY

7 ORGANIZATIONAL TIPS 1. Determine what organization means to you. Some people may put form before function. Others may be interested in the aesthetics of a neat-looking space. Once you have a handle on what being organized means to you, you can get to work. 2. Start with what motivates you most. When you accomplish your biggest goal, the seemingly smaller ones may seem less difficult. 3. Declutter your mind. Sit down and make a to-do list of what’s on your mind. Then start prioritizing tasks. This will do wonders to clear your head. 4. Create deadlines for yourself. An open-ended timeline to get things done may promote procrastination. Deadlines may provide motivation. 5. Avoid distractions. Try to remove as many distractions as possible. When working on a chore, hire a babysitter to look after the children or step away from social media so you can focus on the task at hand. Interruptions only slow you down. 6. Think before you acquire. Once you are organized you may have challenges fitting new items into the mix. If you’re getting ready to purchase something new, carefully consider its usefulness and determine in advance where it will go. 7. Be accountable to another. Having help getting organized can mean delegating certain tasks or enlisting someone to check in with you to see if you’re on target. Embrace this system of checks and balances.

Organization can help professionals keep track of their work assignments and stay on schedule. Staying organized does not come naturally to everyone, and those finding it difficult to juggle various assignments at once can try the following strategies to stay organized and increase their productivity. 1. Stop multitasking. While it can seem counterintuitive for people with a lot on their plates to stop multitasking, researchers at the University of Utah found that performance suffers when people try to do more than one thing at a time. Professionals can work on different projects throughout the day, but allot time for each project rather than trying to work on several at once. 2. Schedule each day. Establishing a schedule and making it as accessible as possible is another way to stay organized and increase productivity. Professionals can make use of scheduling apps on their tablets or smartphones, even setting alerts so they do not forget about projects or meetings. 3. Take breaks throughout the workday. Busy professionals may feel as though they don’t have time for breaks during a typical workday. But such breaks can benefit workers in ways they might be unaware. For example, the Association for Psychological Science notes that research has shown that building breaks into a workday helps professionals stay sharp and productive. Staying organized and increasing productivity at work go hand in hand. Professionals tasked with juggling multiple responsibilities can employ various strategies to be better organized and get more done in less time.

voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2020 | 15

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Note to self: I am going to make you so proud!

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Tough times don’t When you can’t find last, tough people do. the sunshine, be the sunshine!

Dream big, work hard, stay focused.

15 22

NEW RELEASES

â&#x20AC;&#x153;every story needs a bookâ&#x20AC;?

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, Fiery Night, Skippy Creek, and RoseHeart Publishing are all imprints of Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc.

OUT NOW Written by Michael Gryboski PRAISE FOR Carla al-Hassan thought she had escaped. After years of working as a hired killer for a domestic terrorist organization to pay for her grandfatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s medical bills, she went into the darkness one more time to disappear. However, Carla could not escape the world of violence forever.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Gryboski highly deserves the praise for creating this truly fascinating world and characters. I wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go fully into who is who and how the story develops. The rest is for you, the reader, to find out. I highly recommend picking this book up.â&#x20AC;?

THE ANTITHESIS KILLER

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Welcome Back, Class of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;65

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Written by Brenda Crissman Musick The Class of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;65 is coming home to Masonville High for their fifty-year reunion, the first since they graduated. A lot of changes can take place in fifty years. Thank God for name tags! Now if they can just read them without squinting! Everyone is anxious to see how their classmates turned out. They canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait to see their Most Athletic hunk and the brainy Most Intellectual. Wonder if any of their teachers are still living? Some have secrets, and they want to keep it that way...but you know about secrets. They just have a way of slipping out, especially in a small town.

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The Best Doctor in Town

Written by Amelia Townsend Set in Southwest Virginia and inspired by actual events, the story follows a small townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most revered doctor, who may just be a serial killer. A local police officer with a tarnished reputation, a reporter who manipulated facts, and the doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s chief internâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;who may be a thief, all hold pieces of the puzzle. Yet no one in authority believes the great doctor could be responsible. All the while, patients are dying.

Greezy Creek

K Written by George R. Justice Kentuckyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Appalachian Highlands (circa. 1930â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) is a world where habits and customs often bewilder: where the ties of kinship and ancestry hold to unswerving lines, and where enduring love stands as a bulwark against those hell-bent on opposing it. A compelling coming-of-age narrative, part murder G J mystery, part family saga, Greezy Creek tells of an Appalachia honed by the unacquainted ways of the Scot-Irish hybrids cloistered in its deepest regions; where moonshiners leave incipient trails and the strains of hard times too often coalesce into the empty-eyed face of hardscrabble. EORGE USTICE holds a B.A. in English Literature from the University of Detroit. He has been published three times for short stories, twice for poetry, and was the movie critic for Oakland Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Daily Tribune (1978â&#x20AC;&#x201C;79). As a U.S. Army veteran, he wrote numerous articles (from human interest to military) for Stars and Stripes. He is the father of two, the grandfather of two, and with an extended family of over 200 in the hills of Kentucky who serve as the cornerstones to this story. He and his wife reside in Ferndale, Michigan. Greezy Creek is his first novel.

Reflections on Childhood: ThoughtProvoking Poems and Short Stories

Michael C. Fuller was born in Southwest Virginia

and has been a lifelong resident. He and his wife, Helen, reside on the same property that was given to them by her parents about forty-six years ago. He and Helen have been able to travel extensively and have visited all 48 lower states. In past years, Michael has served as a Sunday school teacher, a deacon, and a resident storyteller for church functions and gatherings.

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f you are from the Appalachian Mountains, you will understand the words I write, and I hope it makes music to your ears. If you are not from our mountains, perhaps you will get a better understanding of how lovely our world can be. I hope it will open your eyes and your heart, then you too will love our mountains.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Teresa Stutso Jewell has always proudly proclaimed herself an Appalachian poet. After reading sections of her new book, I must concur with her self-assessment. She is the real deal, a bona fide West Virginia local colorist, as well as an insightful autobiographical poet...â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Teresa Jewellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lyric poems are an ode to the mountains she so obviously loves. Her words entreat us to come to this â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;peaceable placeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; where we can be cleansed. From the dark hollows to the mountaintops, she celebrates the mountains and her people. Jewell captures what it means to love a place and this collection of poems will take you there.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Life in the coal fields is truly a mixed bag of godsends and anathemas. How can we reconcile such contradictions? Are we to pay the price of receiving a paycheck while we watch the natural beauty of our geography disappear? Is short-term employment and the pleasure of remuneration worth the long term grief brought on by the loss of loved ones or the physical and emotional suffering from years of backbreaking work in the mines? These are poignant queries we all must be concerned about. The joys of fruitful employment, the curse of coal dust, and the harm to our landscape boom to life in Teresaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s verses.â&#x20AC;? Â Â?

Teresa Jewell was born Appalachian and raised running the hills of McDowell County, West Virginia. She has been inventing and writing fiction as a hobby for over forty years. This is her first poetry book. Visit: www.facebook.com/teresa.s.jewell Email: Teresastutsojewell@gmail.com

Reflections on Faith, Hope, and the World Around Us: Purposeful Poems and Short Stories

Michael C. Fuller

Sophie & the Bookmobile

Written by Kathleen M. Jacobs When Sophieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family moves from New York City to West Virginia, she not only has to leave her friends and the city and library she loves so much, but she has to figure out what will happen when she discovers that there is no library in her new town. But when she discovers something called a bookmobile and other new treasures, all is right with the world. 18 | January 2020 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

My Appalachian Mountain Laurels

Michael Mich c ael C ch C. Fuller

Written by Michael Fuller A collection of stories and poems that delve into our place and purpose in the world around us. We can allow our faith and hope free rein to lift us into a higher purpose.

was born in Southwest Virginia resident. He and his wife, me property that was given to out forty-six years ago. He and o travel extensively and have s. In past years, Michael has ol teacher, a deacon, and a hurch functions and gatherings.

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Teresa Stutso Jewell

ons

e, and und Us

Greezy Creek A Novel

George R. Justice

Thought-Provoking Poems and Short Stories My Appalachian Mountain Laurels

A collection of stories and poems reflecting the Written by Michael C. Fuller fun and joy of childhood. I hope these writings bring back memories of the readerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own The purpose of these poems and storieswill is to preserve carefree days of youth. the memories of different adventures and interactions the author experienced as a child, with children, and in his family. The author expanded from his poems to include some of his childhood memories through short stories. Through his sharing of these stories, the reader will experience feelings of the carefree days of childhood and reminisce the joys and the hopes of childhood.

George R. Justice

Watch JCP Author Amelia Townsend on Daytime Tri-Cities and hear more about her newly released book, The Best Doctor in Town, on Tuesday, January 14 at 10 am on WJHL-TV

entuckyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Appalachian Highlands (circa. 1930â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) is a world where habits and customs often bewilder: where the ties of kinship and ancestry hold to unswerving lines, and where enduring love stands as a bulwark against those hell-bent on opposing it. A compelling coming-of-age narrative, part murder mystery, part family saga, Greezy Creek tells of an Appalachia honed by the unacquainted ways of the Scot-Irish hybrids cloistered in its deepest regions; where moonshiners leave incipient trails and the strains of hard times too often coalesce into the empty-eyed face of hardscrabble. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a place where two childhood friends, Bobby Yonts and Rubin Cain (as good as brothers), come of age and test the limits of things new and out of bounds. But itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the odious hand of cruelty that underscores the unraveling of their naivety and binds them to the unwritten code of the mountains, one which guarantees youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to get whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coming to you. Character driven with rich historical insights, Greezy Creek takes readers behind the veil of a family known for its fierce ingrained independence; a family bound by self-determination and all thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s necessary to survive. Yet, even from their bittersweet and ill-famed existence comes the imprint of their wit and wisdom, the uniqueness of their wilderness ways, and what it means to be bound by blood.

Greezy Creek

telling almost true stories. She has ter, freelance producer and director, ud graduate the University of North l, Keepsakes for the Heart, was nomition for the prestigious Ragan Old d her on:

AMELIA TOWNSEND

red by actual events, the vered doctor, who may er with a tarnished repfacts, and the doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s old pieces of the puzzle. great doctor could be dying.

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all that evil can reside melia Townsend weaves s once again that things

Michael Gryboski

â&#x20AC;&#x153;5 out of 5 stars.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Kerrie Irish,Â Comfy Reading

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Gryboskiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s writing was very unique and incredibly descriptiveâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;I had a perfect image of the storyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s events in my mind the entire time.â&#x20AC;?Â â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Rebekah Crozier,Â My Bookish BabblingsÂ

My Appalachian Mountain Laurels

Written by Teresa Stutso Jewell If you are from the Appalachian Mountains, you will understand the words I write, and I hope it makes music to your ears. If you are not from our mountains, perhaps you will get a better understanding of how lovely our world can be. I hope it will open your eyes and your heart, then you too will love our mountains.

Teresa Stutso Jewell

Sweet Sofie Sue and Her Backyard Adventures

Written by Debbie Neal Illustrated by Brooke Beaver and Jessica Beaver Meet the real Sweet Sofie Sue! She seeks adventure, love, and acceptance. She wants to fit in with her friends, but Sofie learns a very valuable lesson in her adventures. This story captures the reader with delightful illustrations and Christian themed principles that we are indeed fearfully and wonderfully made, and for us to accept ourselves, as well as others, as Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beautiful creations.

BOOK LAUNCH

Ask the Book Editor

Malaprop’s Bookstore/Cafe Asheville, NC

Judi Light Hopson

Judi, I’ve hired my sister-inlaw to edit my novel. She’s halfway through it, and I have to say, I’m not pleased with her work. She’s not catching a lot of mistakes. How do I deal with this? –John P., Arlington, VA

John, just make sure she hasn’t deleted any significant text. You’ll need to hire a more experienced editor for your novel—and start from scratch. Try not to hurt your sister-in-law’s feelings; however, this is too important to mess things up. Count this as a lesson, and just move forward. Good luck! –Judi Light Hopson

Sunday, January 26 at 3 pm Reception afterwards at the Sly Grog Lounge—5 pm–7 pm

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This Month’s Featured Books

John J. Burton, EdD

Rose Klix

Susan D. Crum

In And I Did...,, Susan D. Crum-Teague shares her story of overcoming the many traumas and trials of her life. Through these experiences, Susan has learned to put her full trust in God, allowing Him to move her from where she is to where He wants to take her. As she reveals her challenges, doubts, and insights, Sadai Susan inspiresJenn and encourages others to “overcome.” With faith in God and support from others, anyone can pledge “I want to...” and then boast “And I Did...!”

Be Inspired in 2020! The Sacred Sequence: Remembering the One Truth

The Sacred Sequence: Remembering the One Truth guides readers to a place of connecting with Source to remember your One Truth, the One Truth. You are eternally love-worthy. This journey identifies human-made illusions that distort our truth, the sources of these and unique exercise that assist you in dissolving the illusions. The result is returning to your authentic self, the person you already are and have always wanted to become. The contents of this book empower you, not just for now but provides skills and awareness that create clarity and resilience as you go forward in life.

God, My Greatest Love And I Did...

Cottage Cheese Thighs

2014 And I Did... is a powerful, thought In God, My Greatest Love, COPYRIGHT FRONT COVER PHOTOGRAPH: SCOTTY TEAGUE AUTHOR PHOTOGRAPH: JOY MARTIN Rose excerpts her poems which provoking, ‘Praise the Lord!’ story COVER DESIGN: TARA SIZEMORE PUBLISHING, INCovercoming life’s adversities with were religiously inspired. In JAN-CAROL this about JANCAROLPUBLISHING.COM book Rose offers poems about all grace, gratitude, and grit. Despite the God’s roles in her life: His interaction agonizing challenges of a debilitating with nature, Rose’s faith, angels, stroke, the loss of loved ones, and in the Holy Spirit, Jesus, God’s improbable health diagnosis, Susan people of all ages, and survival. Crum shares her journey of faith and She finishes with a section of her commitment to inspire others with prayers. God’s promises of indescribable love, light, and eternal victory. She reveals her challenges, doubts, and insights, and with faith in God and support from others, anyone can pledge “I want to...” and then boast “And I Did...!”

Author Jenn Sadai bravely opens her deepest feelings about her body image. Fears and anxieties that every woman feels, but would never tell a soul. Cottage Cheese Thighs is a book every woman in the world should read. It exposes the damages that mainstream media is causing among women around the world today through a personal, intimate story that the author courageously shares with the reader. Sharing her life-long journey to loving her body and her ‘cottage cheese thighs’ will empower you through its message, “YOUR BODY IS BEAUTIFUL!”

U.S. $10.95 • CAN $11.95

January SPECIAL! God’s Grace and Mercy Are with Me Always Cynthia M. Smith

The prose and the poetry that intertwine throughout this book express in a simple way how to live for God, and to see how His grace and mercy go a long way, which is very important in the world that we live in today. One cannot go at it alone; we must have a personal relationship with our Heavenly Father.

Jan-Carol Publishing Books

www.jancarolpublishing.com 20 | January 2020 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

www.amazon.com

Order this book directly from JCP — $ 00 8. with FREE shipping! Call 423-926-9983 or mail check to P.O. Box 701, Johnson City, TN 37605. (Sale Ends January 31, 2020)

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SUSAN D. CRUM-TEAGUE

— Brenda White Wright, EdD Servant leader, motivational speaker, and CEO of The Wright Approach

id...

faith and commitment to inspire others with God’s promises of indescribable love, light, and eternal victory. Susan is a gifted storyteller and writer and an amazingly strong woman of God, daughter, wife, and mother. In the words of author and evangelist Corrie Ten Boom, Susan’s life is a testimony that There is no pit so deep, that God's love is not deeper still.”

Call for Submissions! “every story needs a book”

Get Your Manuscript Published Voice Magazine for Women Presents: Taste of Appalachia Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc. and Voice Magazine for Women are now accepting submissions for our 2020 cookbook! Do you have family dishes you’d love to share with the world? Are you an artist or inventor in the kitchen and ready to spread the joy that accompanies your tasty creations? Send your recipes to us for a chance to be published in our upcoming cookbook, Voice Magazine for Women Presents: Taste of Appalachia. Categories in the cookbook include: • Appetizers • Soups & Salads • Main Courses • Desserts • Breakfast or Brunch Submit recipes via email to communications@jancarolpublishing.com or by mail to P.O. Box 701, Johnson City, TN, 37605. Please limit all submissions to two pages or less. Submissions must include the sender’s name, email, city, state, and intended category. Recipes should be original to sender. Accompanying photos are welcome! Don’t have an on hand recipe but still want to participate? Don’t worry! Submissions don’t end until April 2020, so you have time to craft something really special!

Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc., of Johnson City, Tennessee, is proud to announce that submissions are open for the 2020 Believe and Achieve Novel Award! The Believe and Achieve contest is a chance for aspiring authors to break into the market by submitting their novel to Jan-Carol Publishing. One novel will be chosen for a publishing contract. That contract will include book cover design, professional editing, and a three-year publishing contract for paperback and e-book editions of the winning novel. To submit authors must be a U.S. Citizen age 21 or older. The manuscript must be a minimum of 45,000 words but no more than 60,000 words. Manuscript submissions must include a cover page with the author’s name, phone number, email address, the title of the manuscript, the word count, and the genre of the novel.

JCP is Now Accepting Submissions for These Haunted Hills Book Two Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc., of Johnson City, Tennessee, is now accepting submissions for the second edition of These Haunted Hills: A Collection of Short Stories. These Haunted Hills is JCP’s 2017 fall anthology, filled with stories that indulge readers’ curiosity for the supernatural from an array of accomplished authors. These Haunted Hills boasts rave reviews, and JCP is set to publish a second edition in autumn 2020.

To submit a novel, authors must pay a non-refundable reading fee of $20. Multiple entries are allowed, but must be submitted separately. Entries must follow the Jan-Carol Publishing manuscript format, which can be found at jancarolpublishing.com/believe-and-achieve-award.html, along with more information about the contest. The deadline for entries is May 31, 2020. Current Jan-Carol Publishing authors are ineligible to enter. Email entries to the Believe and Achieve Novel Award to submissions@jancarolpublishing.com. Previous Believe and Achieve winners include Melissa Sneed Wilson in 2018 for Growing Up and Going Back, Sylvia Weiss Sinclair in 2017 for her novel, Fledermama’s Son, 2016 winner Charlotte S. Snead, author of Always My Son, and the 2015 Believe and Achieve winner, Willie E. Dalton for Three Witches in a Small Town. Stories submitted to the second edition of JCP’s autumn anthology, These Haunted Hills Book Two: Supernatural Stories from Appalachia, should follow the theme of haunting or supernatural stories set in the Appalachian region. Stories must be fiction. The submission fee per story is $10. You may call the office at 423.926.9983 with a credit card number or mail a check to JCP at P.O. Box 701, Johnson City, TN, 37605. Stories must have a minimum of 1500 words and a maximum of 3500 words per story. The deadline for submissions is May 31st 2020. Send your submissions to submissions@jancarolpublishing.com

voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2020 | 21

The Importance of Stories By Deana Landers, Morningcoffeebeans.com

y mom died when I was 13. I lived with my brother and sisterin-law. After my high school graduation, I was gifted a trip to visit my aunts, who I hardly knew. I was excited to hear stories of my mom and get to know what she was like when she was a young girl. I spent the next few weeks visiting aunts and uncles, listening to interesting and wonderful stories about my mother. Their stories gave me a new picture of the woman I called mama. My aunts showed me yellowed photos taken when she was a young, red-headed girl. They told me how she liked to sing in the church choir, how shy and stubborn she was, and how she and my dad had eloped before she finished high school. I know there are many ways you can trace your roots, genealogy, and ancestry to get the facts, but nothing takes the place of the stories we can share with each other. In fact, research shows sharing family stories can increase well-being, reduce anxiety and depression, reinforce feelings of closeness among family members, and build resilience for navigating life’s normal ups and downs. These story moments can happen anytime families get together. When our children were younger, it was fun for them to hear what their dad was like as a child when we visited my husband’s family. We saw him as

22 | January 2020 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

a husband, a father, a pastor, a man who worked hard; his family saw him as a fun, loving boy who had somehow stumbled into becoming a man. Watching my children’s faces when they heard stories of their dad touched my heart deeply. I see the same look on our grandchildren’s faces when their aunts and uncles talk about their moms and dads. One day our youngest son called our house in total exasperation. His oldest son said he was going to the bathroom while they were in a pizza place. Instead of going to the bathroom, he decided to check out the red button on the emergency exit door. Of course, the alarm went off and our grandson was in trouble. “He is so mischievous, mom,” my son told me. “Sometimes I don’t know what to do with him.” When we related the story to his brother and sister at the next Thanksgiving gathering, it was their turn to remind him of when he decided to satisfy his curiosity by pulling the emergency alarm at a hotel where we were staying. I believe that when a child hears that their parents did silly things and made mistakes, they can accept their own mistakes and learn from them. When they hear stories about their grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins, their world becomes bigger and safer in their hearts because they know they are not alone. When I read the Bible, I love that Jesus used parables, a Jewish style of storytelling, to teach people and make a point. Stories are a powerful tool. I wish parents understood how much children need to hear the stories their families have to tell. The stories may be entertaining and sometimes

sad, but they are also an important part of informing. Stories tell us who we are, what sort of people we come from, and why certain events happened the way they did. They remind us of the legacies that we are obliged to live up to, or in some cases, that we need to change. Stories give us a context for our lives, assuring us that we are part of an ongoing epic that began long before we were born and will continue long after we are gone.

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Deana Landers, a retired nurse and health educator, is Christian speaker who strives to educate and encourage. She may be contacted at dlanders1511@ gmail.com or 276-780-7355. Visit her website at morningcoffeebeans.com.

You are reading this— so are thousands of other people! Shouldn’t they be reading about your business? Advertise with

Call 423.926.9983 or email publisher@jancarolpublishing.com

YWCA Programs Provide Education and Enrichment

or working parents or students, dependable and affordable child care is a key element for a successful career or completing an education. Finding child care that is both affordable and enriching for the child is becoming more and more difficult for low to moderate income families. To assist families, the YWCA of Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia uses two programs, child care and TechGYRLS. The YWCA Children’s Center is the only full service, sliding-scale fee child care program in Bristol. The YWCA is currently the largest child care provider in Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia, and the demand for quality care is so great we added 165 names to our waiting list last year. Providing early education in the most formative years of children’s lives produces children who are kindergarten ready and more successful in school. This foundation for early success improves the chances for future success. Affordable child care is still an increasing need and necessary for many families. Last year, more than 95% of the parents

we served were productively employed, enrolled in school, or both. Although they were working, 46% of families earned $20,000 or less and could never afford full fee child care. The YWCA Children’s Center keeps parents working and advancing their careers or education. In addition, we are also supporting an increasing number of working grandparents who are raising their grandchildren. Teachers in the YWCA Children’s Center prepare students for life-long learning by providing activities that are both fun and educational. The three-star rated facility furnishes a safe and nurturing environment for children. The TechGYRLS after-school program offers academic encouragement and enrichment activities for at risk elementary and middle school girls recommended by school guidance counselors and principals. Many TechGYRLS are able to improve academic performance by developing better study habits at the YWCA. Participants are exposed to experiences they would not otherwise be able to enjoy. TechGYRLS have the opportunity to participate in hands on learning activities including learning to knit, participating in a weekly book club, working in the YWCA garden, learning to budget, and learning about music by playing recorders. Community and business volunteers work with TechGYRLS to provide educational and social activities. YWCA Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia strives to provide an educational, nurturing and enjoyable environment for anyone taking advantage of our programs for young people. For more information about the YWCA NETN and SWVA programs contact Tina McDaniel or Allison Linder at 423-968-9444 to attend one of our Mission Encounters. These sessions are held at 10:00 a.m. on the fourth Tuesday of each month in the YWCA conference room.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is a federal holiday in the United States that is celebrated annually on the third Monday of January. The day commemorates and celebrates the life of the esteemed civil rights leader who was tragically assassinated in 1968 at the age of 39. Dr. King championed racial justice and equality, inspiring others in his moving speeches and leading by example while promoting nonviolent resistance. Dr. King was not afraid to sacrifice his own freedom in an effort to secure freedoms for others, going to jail 29 times on charges related to his work as a civil rights leader. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is now observed in all 50 states. voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2020 | 23

CERVICAL CANCER SCREENINGS

ervical cancer screenings are an important component of preventative healthcare for women. Such screenings are often conducted at the same time as other routine checks performed by a woman’s primary care physician or gynecologist. Cervical cancer screenings are two-fold. A doctor or nurse will examine the cervix to visually look for any

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indications of change, and he or she also will take a sampling of cervical cells to conduct a Pap test. These screenings are some of the most effective cancer screening tests available. Some women also get tested for the human papillomavirus, or HPV, a common sexually transmitted disease, during the same visit. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state cervical cancer is the easiest gynecologic cancer to prevent, noting that screening is highly effective at detecting the presence of cervical cancer, even if it is in its early stages. While cervical examinations are recommended every year, in 2012 the American Cancer Society changed the rate of frequency for Pap tests. That’s because cervical cancer is a slow-developing cancer (sometimes taking 10 to 20 years to appear), and frequent testing is not always necessary. Today, women should get their first Pap tests at age 21. Patients who have never had a positive cervical cancer result and are between ages 21 and 29 should get a Pap test every three years. An HPV test is not necessary unless there is an abnormal Pap test result. Women between the ages of 30 and 65 should receive both a Pap and HPV test every five years. According to The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, women who have had their uteruses and cervixes removed in hysterectomy procedures and who have no history of cervical cancer do not require screenings. Also, after a woman reaches age 65 and has had no abnormal results, she no longer needs to be screened for cervical cancer. Women who are at a high risk for cervical cancer may need to be screened more often. Such women include individuals who have HIV, have undergone organ transplants, or have had abnormal results from past screenings.

he World Health Organization estimates that 4.5 million people are blind due to glaucoma. In addition, the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness notes that some estimates have suggested that there will be approximately 80 million people with glaucoma by 2020. If such estimates prove true, that would mean an additional 20 million cases of glaucoma were diagnosed between 2010 and 2020. The National Eye Institute notes that early detection and treatment can protect the eyes against serious vision loss. That makes it imperative that individuals from all walks of life learn about glaucoma, its risk factors, and how to recognize it.

What is glaucoma? Glaucoma is a term used to describe a group of diseases that damage the eye’s optic nerve. When such damage occurs, vision loss and even blindness can result.

What is the optic nerve and why does it matter? The NEI notes that the optic nerve is a bundle of more than one million nerve fibers that connects the retina to the brain. The retina is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye that contains cells which are sensitive to light. These cells trigger nerve impulses that pass via the optic nerve to the brain, where visual images are then formed.

What are the most common types of glaucoma? According to the IAPB, primary open angle glaucoma, or POAG, and primary angle closure glaucoma, or

PACG, are the most common types of the condition. The Glaucoma Research Foundation (GRF) says that POAG is the most common form of glaucoma and is caused by the slow clogging of the drainage canals that produces increased pressure on the eye. PACG, which the GRF notes is quick to develop, results when the drainage canals are blocked, resulting in a sudden rise in intraocular pressure.

What are the symptoms of glaucoma? Because POAG develops slowly, its symptoms often go unnoticed. Symptoms of PACG, however, are often very noticeable and may include severe and sudden eye pain; blurred vision; bright halos appearing around objects; eye redness, tenderness, and hardness; and nausea and vomiting.

Can glaucoma be treated? While there is no cure for glaucoma, the NEI notes that treatment for early-stage POAG can effectively delay progression of the disease. More information about glaucoma is available at www.nei.nih.gov.

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The Joy of Aging By Cindy Sproles

t’s normal to hear negative phrases about aging: aching bones, slipping memory, stubbornness. After all, it is aging. Our bodies begin to tell us it’s time to ease out of the busyness of life and relax. Slow down. Aging is difficult. Who wants to admit they are entering their golden years? And it never seems to slowly approach. It happens overnight. One minute we’re racing about with our grandchildren, the next the race seems to have dissipated. Aging, despite the fact we know it will happen, is a shock. When you are the child of an aging parent, reality may seep in when you suddenly notice the difficulty of your parent standing up from a sitting position or when you finally take notice of the wrinkled skin on their hands. We’ve been so accustomed to having active parents, especially with our children, that seeing that large energy shrink is hard. The transition from an active parent to one who requires a bit of assistance takes some adjustment. Aging is simply part of the circle of life and it’s not to be taken lightly. Many senior parents now require additional help. Maybe it’s assistance with household chores, or more so assistance with the daily activities we take for granted, things like dressing, brushing our hair or teeth, putting on our shoes. Either way, our mindset must change. The changes can be an inconvenience, but it’s important not to let the negative take away the joy of our parents. It’s no secret that some issues with aging cause our loved ones distress, like Alzheimer’s or different dementias. There are times these hiccups take the person we love and twist them into someone we’ve never met. This is the time when joy is important. Learning to find the good in every situation is not only scriptural, but it’s the perfect way to handle our lives. How do we find joy in something like Alzheimer’s? Grant you, it’s difficult, but again, it has to be a mindset. Take time to recount the moments that brought laughter

and fun into your family with your aging parent. Spend time chatting about those things. Even more so, include your loved one in on those conversations. Sometimes, a memory is sparked, a moment of peace may seep over your parent. When parent’s thoughts stream to a spouse or parent who passed years prior, that is fine. Use those memories to start conversation with your loved one. Ask questions about that person or the time frame your parent may be recounting. Don’t spend valuable time trying to convince your aging parent that the person they are speaking about, passed away years earlier. Their mind is in what is present to them at the time. Instead, roll with the flow. You may be surprised at what you learn about the past of your parent. The point is there are fun things, things that brought you and your parent laughter and pleasure in the past. Search for the joy in those things and bring them to light. Doing this not only revives little memories for your parent but it sparks a whole new set of conversations with your siblings and children. For example, my grandmother passed away over 25 years ago. To this day, when any of the family gathers, the same old stories are spit out over and over. Laughter rings through the house and the hard parts of grandmother’s illness are swallowed up by the joys of her life. There is never sadness, instead, our homes and lives are enriched continually by those wonderful memories. When aging grows difficult for your “Keeping the Comforts of Home” family, stop. Rethink. Seek. Find the joy that brought laughter and happiness • Alzheimer's Care • Respite Care from years prior. Those memories will • Dementia Care • Companion Care once again bring a new joy to the hard• Hospital to Home • Hospice Care ships of aging.

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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.

Voicemail

Male

By Ken Heath

Winter Nights T

here’s something about this time of year. To me, it’s kind of an icy purgatory, a holding cell between the excitement of the holidays and the coming spring. The days seem so short, the nights so long, with darkness as we leave and return from work. Just enough teasingly warm days to shock us as the seasonal temps roar back, and not even enough snow to make it fun most years. These are perfect days for winter weight wools, those coats, hats, and gloves we peeled from under shiny paper just a few weeks ago. And nights are perfect for a bowl of soup beans and cornbread, or a hearty supper of pot roast—as the outside grill becomes a long lost friend. My tastes in music change too, from Buffett’s Caribbean summertime baritone to a new soundtrack for my life, a bit more melancholy, maybe even brooding, with lyrics that pierce my soul. It’s a time for planning, strategizing, and forecasting at work for me, but just the opposite at home, where black and white movies roll as a background to a good book or a board game with my angel. Even the pups seem to slow down, napping

more, with shorter runs outside and quickly back in for their bathroom breaks. I’ve learned to roll with the flow, no longer wishing these days were past, but relishing in the newness of this balance. Before we know it, we’ll be out at cruiseins, festivals, cookouts, and a whirlwind of activities that steal these precious moments of solitude and serenity from the two of us. I suppose that’s what they call wisdom; something that comes as the pages on the calendar fall faster and faster as we realize there are fewer and fewer of them left for us as we march along. So let these winter winds howl. Another blanket on the bed, a glowing fire in the fireplace, a good book, fine dogs, and my angel. Just another reminder of God’s more than ample blessings. Soon enough we’ll be back full steam ahead. But for now, I’m just fine harbored in my one particular harbor, sheltered from the storm.

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

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The Test of Time By Jim Liebelt

“But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost.” –Jude 20 KJV Interpretation: “But you, dear friends, must continue to build your lives on the foundation of your holy faith.” –Jude 20 (NLT)

HERITAGE TV

n numerous towns throughout the New England states you can find big, beautiful old homes that were built in the 1700s and 1800s. Thanks to historical committees and the hard work of their owners, many of these homes look virtually the same as they did over two hundred years ago. The seasons come and go with the summer sun beating down on these homes year after year. Wind, rain, snow and ice batter them winter after winter. The homes have weathered repeated blizzards and hurricanes. Yet, they have stood the test of time. I find it fascinating that these old homes not only retain their value, but often surpass the value of newer homes. It has been said that imitation is the highest form of flattery, and in this region when new homes are built, many are constructed to resemble the old ones. Similarly, our faith is designed to last. Our life of following Christ is not without its seasons or its struggles. Doubts, life circumstances and even crises of faith, batter us season after season. Yet, like an antique house, these seasons provide us with an opportunity to strengthen and build value to our lives as we, by faith, invite God’s partnership with us step-by-step along the way. And, faith that stands the test of time is beautiful to behold. Believers should look to more “seasoned” Christ-followers as Point Broadband Channel 3 role models. In them, we see the value Scott County Cable of long-term faith and we can seek to Channel 84 imitate their lives. Comcast (Norton system) Today, remember that God is in Channel 266 the business of building your faith—a Coming Soon to MCA Cable faith that will stand the test of time. Channel 12 Invite Him to build your faith whatSERVING FAR ever experiences this day brings.

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Source: www.homeword.com

January is National Creativity Month! By Savannah Bailey

oming from a home filled of artists, writers, and crafters, I thought it might be time to spruce up some of the tools that help us in our creativity journeys. For Christmas 2019, I gifted my partner a hardback sketch book, but the cover was plain black. To help inspire him in his art, I thought I would decorate the outside of the book for him. I searched for a quote I thought was fitting, one that I knew we’d both enjoy, and landed on the following from author Neil Gaiman, “The

world always seems brighter when you’ve just made something that wasn’t there before.” I wrote out the quote in pencil on the cover, and then used a very fine point paint brush to paint over the letters in white. After the paint on the letters dried, I added a few decorations to incorporate extra color. Again I drew the doodles first with pencil, and then painted over them in various eye popping colors. My partner loves the cover, and I have to admit I’m a bit jealous! I think I’ll be finding a lined notebook to repeat the process for myself. voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2020 | 29

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

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Voice Magazine recognizes the

Reader of the Month

CLUES ACROSS

1. Beer ingredient 5. Popular FOX TV show 11. Recurring from time to time 14. Criticized severely 15. Musician 18. German urban center 19. Quenched 21. Human gene 23. Indian music 24. Accumulate 28. One who graduated 29. Atomic #109 30. Semitic fertility god 32. Sportscaster Patrick 33. Child’s dining accessory 35. Payment (abbr.) 36. Guitarist’s tool 39. Dabbling ducks 41. Commercial 42. Style someone’s hair 44. Biu-Mandara language 46. Actress Spelling 47. Large hole in the ground 49. One-masted sailboats 52. Tropical Asian plant 56. Concurs 58. Latin term for charity 60. The number below the line in a fraction 62. Reddish browns 63. This (Spanish)

CLUES DOWN

1. Belong to he 2. One time only 3. Parent-teacher groups 4. Puts in place 5. Editing 6. In the course of 7. Helps injured people (abbr.) 8. OJ trial judge 9. Resist authority (slang) 10. Formerly alkenols 12. “Cheers” actress Perlman 13. Jewelled headdress 16. Viking Age poet 17. Vanuatu island 20. Wish harm upon 22. Unit of length 25. Blood type 26. Drain 27. Do-gooders 29. Advanced degree 31. Business designation 34. Chinese-American actress Ling 36. Performs on stage 37. Slang for money 38. Large Russian pie 40. The Mount Rushmore State 43. Narrow inlet 45. News organization (abbr.) 48. Scarlett’s home 50. Micturates 51. Monetary unit 53. Any customary observance or practice 54. Sons of Poseidon 55. Facilitates grocery shopping 57. Standard operating procedure 58. Former OSS 59. Midway between south and southeast 61. The Wolverine State

Lisa. A. McCombs • Monongah, West Virginia

Occupation: A retired public school teacher, I now spend my time writing young adult Christian novels.

30 | January 2020 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

I feel empowered when: I can help individuals living with multiple sclerosis; whether my assistance is through a kind word, my blog, my books, or just being there for support. I was diagnosed July 1, 2001, six months after the birth of my only child. I’m obsessed with: books! All books! I read them, I write them, I review them! I LOVE books!

The last book I read was: Patricia Harman’s The Midwife’s Song, which I read and reviewed as an ARC. It will be published soon. I can’t leave home without a: book (just in case of a traffic jam), Burt’s Bees lip color, and a pocket full of hard candy The top item on my bucket list is: to be in the audience on the Plaza in New York City for the TODAY show.

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

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