Women2Women Michigan Magazine by Women2Women Michigan Magazine

WOMEN INSPIRING WOMEN FOR GOOD!

M CO

Women Women IM PL

RY TA EN

MICHIGAN

Find Adventure in Everyday Living Trading Education for a Different Kind of Adventure

July/August 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ $3.95

Cheri L.R. Taylor

From Our Publisher & Editor 

2 Women

Women Women

Michigan

Debra K. Collins Publisher/Managing Editor

Susan Rosenhauer Editor

Choose to make this the summer of great adventures. Step outside of your everyday routine and try something new and unexpected. Our lives get busy, we get use to the normal everyday mundane stuff - it is comfortable and it is what we know. It takes effort to step outside the box and do something different. Have an Adventure this summer the theme of this issue. Enjoy the summer of your dreams and take a magical and exciting journey to someplace you have never been before. Why not learn a new skill, take a class, and take the time for friends and fun! Your personal adventure could be golfing, biking, horseback riding, or kayaking? The key here is to challenge yourself to do something unexpected. Have you ever wanted to ride a motorcycle and have yet to do it? Now is the time to explore something new and exciting! Enlist the help of a friend and have an amazing journey together! Our cover –girl, Cheri L.R Taylor is just that, adventurous! Read about her journey starting on page 10. We have two additions to our writers, Alexandria Nolan who writes about her travels while Erin Caudell enlightens us on heirloom tomatoes. Erin has also shared with our readers, two tomato recipes that would be a fabulous addition to a summer barbeque. Debra & Susan

Women

for Good

Our Mission:

Women2Women Michigan was created to connect women with women for good to encourage, support, have fun, do business and provide links for women’s resources. DO YOU KNOW A MICHIGAN WOMAN WE SHOULD FEATURE? Submit your stories online at W2WMichigan.com. Article guidelines are under the magazine tab. WHY ADVERTISE WITH US? Women make the majority of purchasing decisions. They buy goods and services for their homes, gardens, businesses, entertainment, health and nutrition, the list is endless. They want to be informed and connected in their communities. Event-driven marketing makes education fun and rewarding. You can reach these women in a heartwarming environment at Women2Women Michigan events and through our magazine. READERSHIP & DISTRIBUTION Women2Women Michigan magazine is distributed to subscribers via US mail. It is also available at every Women2Women Michigan event, chamber events, and women’s organizations. It is professionally delivered by Miller Marketing Group to over 400 locations with 25 outside vendor racks throughout the area including restaurants, hospitals, retail locations and medical offices in southeastern Michigan. Interested in hosting a distribution location? Call 810.694.2326 or email at info@W2Wmichigan.com Women2Women Michigan prints 10,000 copies of each magazine. Would you like to subscribe? Subscribe online or email us at info@W2Wmichigan.com. Women2Women Michigan magazine is published bimonthly. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced whole or in part without the express written consent of the publisher. Interested in a franchise? Contact our office at 810.694.2326 • fax 810.694.2507 536 Perry Rd Suite 7 • Grand Blanc, MI 48439, info@ W2Wmichigan.com, W2WMichigan.com. The advertisements and articles included in this publication are independently developed by our customers and writers to inform others about their business, expertise and related activities. Women2Women Michigan is not aware of, and makes no representation as to, the truth or accuracy of such information and, therefore, makes no warranties of any kind, express or implied, with respect to the same. Accordingly, the respective advertisers and writers are solely responsible for the accuracy and contents of their own advertisements and for all claims, losses, costs, expenses or damages whatsoever, directly or indirectly, that may emanate there from.

July/August • WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN

Enjoy this issue while dreaming of your next adventure!

Inspiring

Contents Cover



10 Cheri L.R. Taylor

Departments

Empowering Our Feninine

Calendar of Events

Find Adventure in Everyday Living

Books, Bytes & Beyond

A Place for Grace Biking the Leelanau

Shades of Faith

25 28

Ask Shuntai

Let’s Have A Garden Party!

Millennials Maddening or Magnificent?

Who Needs A Personnel Brand?

Online Dating

Shameless Moxie

No Regrets

WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN • www.w2wmichigan.com



Letters from the Publisher & Editor

... And She’ll Be There

Features



Heirloom Tomatoes

Simply Living

Whaley Tux & Tennies Gala

Art@Work

Don’t Let Dental Emergencies Ruin Your Summer!

Leslie’s Learnings

DIY Car Care Everyone Can Do

Ask The Experts

Don’t Tell My Wife I Wrote This

Trading Education for a Different Kind of Adventure

GFAC Jazz Festival - Tunes at Noon

If you are looking for a sign, this is it

• Law • Financial

Jennifer Tremaine

Brings Professional Touch to Real Estate

Call 810-252-3827 or visit

As a child, Jennifer Tremaine remembers waiting in the car while her mother Mary Ann put in yard signs and showed homes to prospective clients. The experience of seeing her mother as a successful business woman has led her to become a Real Estate broker and agent for Tremaine Real Living in Fenton and Grand Blanc. “When I graduated from Michigan State University, I wanted to go into mall management like my mother did,” Jennifer explained. “Mom said fine, but get your Real Estate license first.” Jennifer began her career as the Manager of the Outlets of Gilroy in California. She came back to Michigan to become the Manager of the Outlets of Birch Run, and later as the Manager of Genesee Valley in Flint. But true to her mother’s words, she eventually returned to Real Estate. “I enjoy helping people solve their life problems,” she said. “People may call me to buy or sell a house, but the real reason is because they want to make a major change in their lives. The single woman who wants to put down roots. The young family looking for better schools. The retired couple who wants to have fun instead of mowing the grass. I give them life choices.” Jennifer’s education, experience and attitude has paid off handsomely. Over the last decade, she has become one of the top-rated local Realtors on the Internet, and her success has made it possible to give back to organizations in the community like Women-to-Women. “You cannot ask for any better career than mine,” she added. You can contact Jennifer Tremaine at (810) 252-3827 or Sold@JenniferTremaine.com

JenniferTremaine.com

All the Comforts of

Home and More.

Women Women

HOUSING SOLUTIONS FOR WOMEN OVER 60

AS LOW AS

Debra K. Collins Publisher/Managing Editor

1,671

Per Month/Large Room

Susan Rosenhauer Editor/Executive Development Director

INCLUDES:  All meals and snacks  Chauffeur available  Weekly housekeeping  Daily laundry  Planned activities  Staff on duty 24/7  Help with personal care such as baths, weekly shampoos and managing prescribed medicines  On-site service coordinator

Heidi Zoltak Account Executive Gary Jones Business Development Collins Media Group Kelsey Rosenhauer Graphic Designer Sheri Harvey Creative Director

Senior Living Simplified 700 East Kearsley Street | Flint, MI 48503 810.235.3077 | mcfarlanresidential.com

Editorial Correction:

WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN • www.w2wmichigan.com

Jennifer Whipple’s bio was inadvertently omitted from her article on page 38 of the May/ Junee issue, “Prana Yoga Center, Offering the Life-Changing Benefits of Yoga”. You can also read about Jennifer’s journey on our website at Women2WomenMichigan.com.

Michigan

Jennifer Whipple BA, ERYT is an experienced yoga teacher registered with Yoga Alliance and the owner of Prana Yoga Center in Grand Blanc, MI. To experience the transformative quality of yoga, visit our website: Prana-Yoga-Center.com for class information or call 810-965-0184.

Susan Lamphier Executive Assistant Courtney Simpson Photographer Lisa Metropolis Social Media Director

Contributing Writers Beth Bryce • Susan Rosenhauer • Eileen Button • Elaine Stenger

Ron Estrada • Lori Nash Byron • Leslie Toldo • Mary Ellen Jones

Shuntai Beugard • Helen Hicks • Dawn Drozd • Alexandria Nolan Erin Caudell • Deborah St. Hilaire • Susan Lamphier

Advisory Board Carol VanBuren

Advisory Board Director

Teresa McClelland - Sargent • Karen Borton • Jet Kilmer • Lynn Sorensen

Christine Stephens • Jill Watson • Theresa Yochim • Joy Martinbianco

Photographers Pop Mod Photo: Ryan Garza & Courtney Simpson

w2wmichigan.com

Jo Ellyn Bernardin

Barbara Walker

Douglas Fairbanks

Jeff Boshaw

Jim McGrain

Pam Barkel

Steve Hill

Terri Hartwick

Tim Martin

David Walker

www.hartlandinsurance.com

July/August â&#x20AC;˘ WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN

1-866-223-2112

Calendar of Events

July

July 4th

Flint July 4th Festival

July 6 – August 14 Tunes at Noon Location TBD

Coupon Class Genesee Valley Center Library, 6-7:30pm (810) 230-9613 www.thegdl.org

August 3

August 21 & 22 Crim Festival of Races Downtown Flint

August 29

Back to the Bricks Flint Township Tune Up Party Visit backtothebricks.org for details

July 11

August 8

Scoop On Poop

July 18

August 11 - 15

Summer Theater Festival Children’s Theater Jack and the Beanstalk Kearsley Park

July 11

Buckham Alley Fest Buckham Alley in Downtown Flint Dirty Work The Whiting

Flint Storytellers Festival The Flint Public Library

July 25

Flint Folk Music Festival Kearsley Park Pavilion

July 23

WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN • www.w2wmichigan.com

August 3

Genesee Valley Center Back to School Bash 10am-2pm in Center Court Get your gear and earn FREE retailer gift cards with Back to School Bucks! Bring the family for FREE Child ID Kits, Face Painting, Balloon Twisting & more. Visit geneseemall.com for complete details.

July 9

August

Bat Conservation Goodrich Library, 1pm (810) 230-9613 www.thegdl.org

August 3

Drop Fest Riverbank Park/Rutherford Parking Ramp/U of M Pavilion Ice Rink Back to the Bricks Festival Saginaw Street in Downtown Flint

Ongoing 2 by 2 Buick Gallery

August 14 – 16

34th Annual Flint Jazz Festival Riverbank Park

On-Going @

Free Concert: Humphrey-McKeown (from Chicago) Grand Blanc-McFarlen Library, 6:30pm (810) 230-9613 * www.thegdl.org

Collecting Flint from A to Z

July 28

Chef Michelle Bommarito Beans and Legumes Davison Area Library, 2pm (810) 230-9613 www.thegdl.org

Longway Planetarium To Space and Back Perfect Little Planet – Until Sept 6

July 28

OverDrive Event Grand Blanc-McFarlen Library, 10am - 4pm Bring your Kindle, Nook, iPad, and other devices and learn about all the free downloads the GDL offers. (810) 230-9613 www.thegdl.org

Until Sept 6 Sloan Museum

August 20

Summer Theater Festival Musical Gilbert & Sullivan’s The Mikado Kearsley Park

Sea Monsters Skies Over Michigan SpacePark 360 Violet Universe First Fridays at Longway July 3 & August 7

Download or pick up these titles @ thegdl.org or any GDL branch. Review written by Christine Heron, senior librarian at the Fenton-Winegarden branch.

BOOKS

BEYO

BYTES &

The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake By Aimee Bender Printed Material

Large Print

Aimee Bender has written an amazing story about a young girl with a surreal talent; she can taste feelings. On the eve of her 9th birthday, Rose discovers her special gift in a bite of her mother’s lemon cake. As time progresses Rose hones her tasting skills by identifying who, where and why food is made. This eventually leads her to eat processed foods because real food is too emotionally exhausting. Throughout the novel, we discover this gift is hereditary as her father and brother also manifest intuitive talents. Parts of the story are somewhat nostalgic as Rose projects feelings of melancholy for a time before she felt so much. With endearing characters and an atypical storyline, this book is delightful … much like lemon cake.

The Giver

By Lois Lowry

E-Book

Audiobook

Printed Material

DVD

Newbery award-winning author Lois Lowry wrote her post-apocalyptic novel, The Giver, decades before the genre phenomena exploded. Published in 1993 and released on film in 2014, this story removes all possibilities from everyday living. Lowry’s idealistic community is managed by the “elders.” They insist on sameness for all its members and deny them the ability to choose. The main character, Jonas, is given the high honor of receiving memories of life before this sameness. While written for a younger audience, this book is good for adults to use as a sounding board for encouraging developing readers with critical thinking skills. Available in multiple formats, this story is for all ages to question and ponder equality versus individuality.

July/August • WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN

Cover Story 

WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN • www.w2wmichigan.com

The Energy of Creation is Life Giving

This month’s cover author, Cheri L.R. Taylor just published Leaving Walloon, a story about Susannah Suffolk coming home to plan her mother’s funeral while flashing back to her difficult childhood under her mother’s forbidding hand. The novel introduces us to Susannah’s first love Angel; her work as a defender in an extremely public court case; and the family and friends who witness her life - now and then. Taylor’s writing style is poetically graceful, eloquent, gritty and real. The twists and turns keep you reading and the ending is well earned. Michigan born and raised, Taylor lives in Royal Oak and teaches writing at Macomb Community College in Warren, Michigan. She is also a writing and creativity coach where she thrives in “being an invitation to others to step into their creative lives.” In my interview with Taylor, she said, “I quit high school when I was 16, and got married at 18. I had a son by the time I was 19, and when my marriage hit a rough patch about 3 years in, I realized that if I found myself in

“I believe in the stunning power of creative energy to change the world. That is what I want to help people do.”

a position where I needed to support myself and my son, I had no diploma and no skills. I made the choice to go back to school through an adult education program.” Taylor began a grueling schedule to become independent through a dental assistant program. While all the time writing, Taylor shared her work with colleagues and one co-worker shared a flyer for the Walloon Writer’s Retreat (now called Springfed Writer’s Retreat) at the Michigania Campgrounds. Taylor’s boss gifted her the retreat and it was during that experience, she found her tribe. She said, “I thought that I had to be someone or something different than who I am to be a “real” writer. I discovered that these were just regular people like me, and they were pursuing what they love. I was hooked! It was at that retreat that my novel, Leaving Walloon, was born and I began taking myself seriously as a writer.” Taylor met her first writing mentor at that retreat. Immersed in her writing tribe, someone suggested that she apply to a MFA program. She said, “I thought this was absurd because I had no undergrad degree. Vermont College of Fine Arts accepted me into the program and waived the requirement for the undergrad degree on the strength of my application. I was also lucky enough to have a financial mentor, who paid for the program on my behalf. It was a time of miracles!”

Taylor attended college for the first time at 38, left her marriage of 21 years and her job of 15 years, and had a brief period during which she lived out of her car. She said, “I sofa surfed with friends for a while, and I have a vivid memory of sitting in my car with my laptop plugged in to the lighter, and writing for my MFA studies. I moved in with a friend shortly thereafter, and got a job to get me through. I had outgrown the dental office, and filling out insurance forms all day was taking a toll on my psyche. It was a leap, and at times it was a scary one, but I knew I would get by. I graduated with my MFA at 40 years old!” After Taylor earned her MFA, she created a poetry-writing program for young men who were leaving the prison system at Boysville in Clinton Township, Michigan. She also began working with The InsideOut Literary Arts Project, which is a writers program in the schools project that places poets and writers in Detroit Public School Classrooms to facilitate poetry workshops with the students. She said, “It was an incredible experience to see the brilliance of these young people and watch them surprise themselves with their own words and the ability to craft them.” Since then, Taylor has been working with writers at all levels as a coach, and teaching writing in various colleges, while also working on her own writing. Taylor helps people get over their creative blockages. She said, “It’s different for every client, but I have seen that creative energy and the energy of play are very closely related. As children, when we are given a box of crayons, say and a piece of paper, we don’t sit and fret over the design, or think about whether or not we are ‘qualified’ to draw the picture—we just grab the crayons and start making marks on the page. We do this easily and with joy! When my clients get ‘stuck’ and also in my writing workshops, I often use things like crayons, small toys, letter tiles, and even candy to get the grown ups playing again.

Mary Ellen Jones is a freelance writer and filmmaker living in Harrisville, MI. She can be reached at mejonmv@gmail.com.

July/August • WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN

When they start playing, they become much more easily creative, and the blockages fall away. I don’t believe in the myth of the tortured writer, or that we have to be tortured in order to create beautiful work. Beauty comes much more easily from joy!” “Writing (and most other creative endeavors) is normally a very solitary art. We sit alone at a desk and move a pen or tap the keys. It can be scary, and people sometimes get stuck. That’s what I’m here for! I can unstick any client, still any fears, and I am the force for completion that many projects need.” Taylor encourages, “If you have a dream of creating something, I truly believe it’s because there are already people waiting for it! Books, artworks,

classes, a business, whatever you are creating, someone is already waiting for it! You are the energy that is required to create it. Just you. You don’t have to be anything other than who you are, and in fact you bring to the creation what no one else can! If you don’t create it, who will?” In her new novel, Falling Down Girl, which will be published soon, Taylor said, “ I learned that pursuing our joy is a necessary part of a happy life!” Cheri L.R. Taylor hosts her own weekly radio show on A2zen.fm, Creative Energy in YOU, Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Eastern, which is dedicated to teaching people how to enjoy creative energy, and joyful writing in their lives! See more at: http://a2zen. fm/article/show-dont-tell-cheril-r-taylor/ - .dpuf Her website is CheriLRTaylor.com and she can be reached at Info@ CheriLRTaylor.com. Taylor is available for speaking engagements workshops, coaching and mentoring.

…And She’ll be There

Shades of Faith 

WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN • www.w2wmichigan.com

As my mother approaches her 90th birthday and we plan her celebration, I am reminded of the old Andy Williams song, Where Do I Begin? Reserving the hall, ordering the invitations, and creating the centerpieces are not the part with which I struggle. For me, the difficulty is trying to express to a room of over 100 close friends and relatives, what my mother means to me. Even now, months before the event, with no one in my room, I have no starting point – no ending moment – no real understanding of the complexity of the bond and the level of this love. It’s almost as if the attachment is so strong and so deep that written words and my own comprehension miss the point. My mother has never been an easy person. She was not the cookie-baking sort of nurturer. Her home was not relaxed, and her manner was far from cozy. Some of the gifts she offered were centered around education, proper English, beautiful clothing and home furnishings, and a zest for competitiveness. Not the traditional mother qualities! While some people might not understand how these gifts could be so enduring, the reality is they were. After every multiplication drill, there was a tender kiss. When English compositions were written with wit and humor, her excitement was boundless. And when order and neatness occurred – a loving smile dazzled the room. Each lunch sandwich was prepared with the utmost care and a handwritten note of encouragement was emblazed on every napkin. Mostly, though, my mother took the time to read to me – to drive me to friend’s homes – and to make sure my grandmother and aunts knew me and loved me. As it turned out, while other girls had crafty moms who wrote big checks so they could go to marvelous camps – my very different mother gave me her gift of time. We stayed home or drove to grandma’s house and there we sang and danced and loved. “Can love be measured by the hours in a day? I have no answers now but this much I can say. I know I’ll need her till the stars all burn away. And she’ll be there.” Thanks for the lesson, Mom, and have a spectacular 90th Birthday!

 Helen Hicks is an award-winning administrator and motivational speaker living in the Detroit area. You can reach her at helenk7306@hotmail.com.

Ask Shunt ai

Q&A 

Online Dating Dear Shuntai, I am a 40 something single woman looking for love. Since I live in a rural area it is harder to meet people. My best friend has suggested that I step out of my comfort zone and become more adventurous; and try online dating. I would like to try it to open up my possibilities. Can you share any tips for online dating? Dear looking for love, Finding love can be an adventure all by itself because of the ups and downs associated with dating. I would suggest that you first begin by keeping an open mind and have a good understanding of your personality type. This will guide you to recognize who complements or enhances the core of who you are as a person. So, here are three tips for dating online and being safe at the same time: Be Honest Use your own picture Write an authentic profile Set expectations Be Safe Don’t share personal Information Always meet in a public place Trust your instincts Be Realistic Don’t expect perfection Get rid of your list I hope this helps you…..Enjoy the process. Remember, love your life or live trying.

 Shuntai Beaugard, Your Forgiveness &

Personal Transformation Expert P. (888) 445-7073 Email: reconnectmylife@gmail.com Visit my website: www.re-connectmylife.com

Don’t let back pain control your life!

Sources: The American Academy of Pain Medicine, APTA, WebMD and Journal of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons

Choose the leader in Physical Therapy. Choose CORA Rehabilitation Clinics for getting you back to work…back to life. Call CORA Rehabilitation Clinics to find the location nearest you! Burton Flint Lapeer Ortonville 1235 S. Center Rd 1032 S. Linden Rd 396 Lake Nepessing Rd 1660 S. Ortonville Rd Unit 12 Suite A Lapeer, MI 48446 Ortonville, MI 48462 Burton, MI 48509 Flint, MI 48532 810-667-1962 248-627-4084 810-743-8820 810-733-3833

July/August • WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN

Low back pain affects 60-80% of U.S. adults at some point in their lifetime. On any given day, almost 2% of the entire United States work force is disabled by back pain. Back pain is the most common reason for the inability to perform daily tasks in people younger than 40 years old. Pain that primarily affects the back should be distinguished from sciatica, a condition that can cause leg pain. Typically sciatica is the result of a “pinched nerve” in the spinal column often caused by a disc problem or arthritis. The cause of isolated back pain, however, is often more difficult to pinpoint. It may be related to the discs, joints or soft tissue supports (muscles, ligaments and tendons) of the back. It is important to understand that back pain is a symptom of an underlying medical condition, not a diagnosis itself. Here are some medical problems that can cause back pain: • Mechanical Problems: Intervertebral disc degeneration commonly called degenerative disc disease (DDD), degeneration of the facet Joints commonly called degenerative joint disease (DJD), muscle spasms, muscle tension and ruptured or herniated discs. • Injuries: Sprains are small tears in the ligaments that support the spine and can be caused from twisting or lifting improperly. Fractures are broken bones and are often the result of softening of the bones, called osteoporosis. Less commonly, back pain can be caused by more severe injuries that result from work / auto accidents or falls. • Acquired Conditions and Diseases: Curvature of the spine (scoliosis), slippage of the vertebrae (spondylolisthesis), arthritic conditions including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and spinal stenosis. Other causes of back pain include pregnancy, kidney stones, infections, endometriosis and fibromyalgia. • Infections and Tumors: Although they are not common causes of back pain, osteomyelitis and discitis are infections that can cause pain when they involve the vertebrae or discs. Occasionally, tumors can cause pain whether they begin in the back or have spread from another location. Note: Causes of back pain are usually physical, but it is important to know that emotional stress can increase the severity and length of time it lasts. Stress affects the body in many negative ways, including increasing muscle tension. Depression, anxiety and insomnia can make back pain feel much worse if left untreated. There is no one answer for resolving everyone’s low back pain. The long term solution is to fix the problem and not mask the symptoms. This may require surgery, oral medications, injections, bracing, spinal manipulations, massage, acupuncture / acupressure, and/or PHYSICAL THERAPY. Physical Therapy has proven to be an effective noninvasive option for management of chronic or acute spinal disorders and prevention of recurrence of spinal disorders. What will your spine injury and back pain program involve? The Back program at CORA Rehabilitation Clinics is tailored to the individual’s specific diagnosis, needs and goals. All the Physical Therapy clinicians are licensed professionals working together to increase function, decrease pain and provide postural education in the clinic as well as teach a home maintenance program to ensure a quick and safe return to daily activities, work, and sports. CORA Rehabilitation Clinics provide the highest level of care possible believing that true compassion coupled with a manual therapy approach will make your experience positive and more comforting. CORA Rehabilitation Clinics are able to meet all of your spine care needs. Treatment may consist of: Aquatic Therapy Core Stabilization Exercises Joint Mobilizations / Manipulations Traction Corrections of Body Mechanics Home Exercise Program Postural Correction Soft tissue mobilization Manual Stretching Functional Activities Work Specific Exercises Modalities (i.e. ultrasound) The central stabilizing force of your body is your back and stomach muscles and it only makes sense to strengthen and stabilize these and the leg muscles which will reduce the strain on the spine during activity. Lifting and using the proper posture while picking up and moving items can also reduce the strain on your back. Nothing can “throw out your back” faster than lifting items using improper techniques. After completing CORA’s Back program you will be able to demonstrate: • Independence in an exercise program that improves performance levels in employment, home and leisure activities • Increased knowledge regarding diagnosis and prognosis • Self managing skills to reduce risk of re-injury • Independence while performing home-based activities of daily living Put us to work for you today! How do you get started? A physician prescription is required for treatment. Physicians may initiate specific treatment protocols and all physician orders will be precisely followed. CORA is Medicare approved and accepts most insurance with pre-verification of benefits prior to your appointment.

Empowering

Our Feminine

WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN • www.w2wmichigan.com

Know who you are and what you believe.

As a constant observer of humanity, it is impossible to have not noticed a universal scarcity of power, in women, all over the world. It is not always self imposed, although we are responsible for allowing it to have happened. Oh, we can point fingers at our circumstances, men, children, parents, careers, teachers…the list goes on and on and on… The truth is three fingers are pointing back. We have, collectively, contributed to our own demise. It has not always been this way. It is not meant to be this way. Our own evolution has separated us hence diminishing our strength. We have drifted from our gathering sisters and gotten too wrapped up in our singular daily rituals of societal and self mandated obligations of child rearing, wife being, home makers, gossipers and workers. It is not surprising that we are zapped, drained of energy and might…we don’t feel empowered… just worn out. The time has come for us to reclaim our sacred feminine. We can have and do it all… with a little help from our sisters we can accomplish this much more quickly! Here are ten suggestions to begin the journey of self reclamation:

No more gossip. Back stabbing is the major combined consumption of command we have. Each time a woman puts another down, a bit of womanhood vanishes. It is painful to hear beautiful people speak badly about a friend, acquaintance or stranger. It belittles the gossiper, not the gossipee. We are unaware of what may be occurring in their life, heart or head. Who made us the expert? Instead, support without judgment. When you hear gossip, speak up! I guarantee you will feel be respected as well as empowered!

Find a mentor/be a mentor. There is room for all of us to be successful. We can share our expertise, without fear, if we can trust one another. TRUST, is key. We would “give” more freely if only we knew that it would not back fire. Unfortunately, we have become understandably afraid in the work place. Competition has forced us to conceal our naturally nurturing nature. If we worked together, instead of against ourselves, we would find a renewed sense of sisterhood. You may get hurt but keep moving forward, fearlessly. Lead by example. To mentor without jealousy or fear is definitely empowering.

Form a tribe of women who lift you. These can be women from work and/or play. They are the sisters who have your back, depend on and talk to about anything and everything. Form a mastermind group to help each other succeed. Celebrate the accomplishments of each. Start a dinner, wine, walking, tennis or whatever club. Linking with like-minded women will be empowering to all concerned.

Take care of your body. It is the only house that matters. It makes no difference how much you weigh, however, how you feel about it does. If you are in pain, unhappy or uncomfortable…your full power will neither be accessible nor evident. Take charge. Create a powerful self image. Eat well…be well, think strong…be strong. Stretch, walk or do whatever you can to improve your self image. Find an activity that you enjoy, can schedule and stick to. Being your best self is evident and empowering.

Feed your mind and your spirit. You must replenish yourself. This is where a DivaSister can help. Exchange turns watching the children, even if it is for an hour of peaceful tranquility, a walk, a read, a bath. Return fully charged, ready for the next round. Meditate early in the morning or last thing at night. Just breathe!

Read. Doesn’t matter if they are fact or fiction, read. Throw in a prominent female author now and again. There are tons of women who have a message, a teaching experience, a biography or autobiography or a good story to tell. There are bits of wisdom everywhere, find them, share them. A book club is a great way to have “adult” conversation.

Wear clothes that make you feel good, no matter the occasion. If everyone is wearing jeans and you feel like wearing a dress, do it. The opposite is also true. Some colors suite you, others do not, learn these. Your particular sense of style will emerge, others will notice. Be yourself, consistently, chin high, shoulders back. There is power in being an individual who is not afraid of their own distinctiveness.

Try a new look. Feeling a little down, change it up! Get a make-over. Arrange a girls’ day at the salon or spa, or just have a friend do something fresh to your face and/or hair. It may be as simple as experimenting with a trending lip or nail color or buying a new bra (an uplifting experience!). Sometimes, the simplest little change can perk up your personal power.

Go to dinner alone. Get comfortable spending time with yourself. As a coach, I see fear of being alone, as one of the most disempowering situations a woman can find herself in. You do not always have to be accompanied by a friend, partner or child. Take a test drive in independence, go shopping, have dinner or see chick flick ALONE. Just do it! Your self esteem will sky rocket.

10.

 Deborah St.Hilaire is an Internationally bestselling

author, holistic women’s coach, host of The Divalution Show, founder of The Divalution, LLC and W4DIVAS. com (a women’s internet network). She can be reached for individual/group/family coaching and speaking engagements at 909.402.4627.

July/August • WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN

Know who you are and what you believe. This is the most vital step of all. If you do none of the others, please do this one. Learn about you. What makes you unique? Why do you have set behaviors or insist on certain things? Explore your beliefs about the universe and God, raising children, your parents, things that matter. Think. Discover a passion, be it painting or skate boarding. Who are your influencers, your heroes, your want-to- be’s? In other words, focus on YOU. Once you truly know yourself and your beliefs, making it easy to be authentic, attract the right people, define your purpose and stand for something. You will be YOU and that, my friend, is empowerment. You can turn your personal empowerment journey into tangible goals by making a list and crossing them off as they are achieved. If we all come to realize our own strength, think how powerfully we can be together. Just imagine the possibilities. That’s what The Divalution is all about. Welcome.

WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN • www.w2wmichigan.com

Shameless Moxie 

this 30 day adventure, splice it together to submit my three Adventure [ad-ven-cher], noun: 1. an exciting or minute plea to Survivor. Today was day one, I logged in very unusual experience, 2. participation in exciting 10 miles and my mood was “energized”. Probably a week undertakings, 3. a bold action of uncertain outcome. I’m a classic dare devil who knows firsthand what it’s like from now my mood will be “this sucks”. Let’s be honest, but it’s going to be a heck of an adventure, agreed? to have an adventurous spirit. I’ve taken my share of risks, Like many of you, I don’t like regrets. I actually believe traveled to faraway lands, broken some bones and hearts, regret is born out of missed opportunities and not seizing switched a gazillion jobs, jumped out of a plane, and eaten alligator (that counts). However, I have a regret that’s been the day rather than poor choices. Adventure, if you really think about it, is the opposite of regret. Saying “yes”. haunting me. One that should be annihilated with a 30 Choosing love. Booking the trip. Trying a new class. day adventure designed to challenge me like never before. Starting a business. Pursuing your dream. Getting on A few years ago I applied for the hit television Survivor. Whatever your definition of adventure is, just show, “Survivor”. I was so serious that I had my video pick something before this summer or year gets away from application professionally done by a local producer. I you again. was so certain I was going to be chosen, I saved weeks of Say “yes” to adventure and “no” to regrets. vacation time just so I could jet to a deserted island in the And please promise to watch me on Survivor? I’ll be South Pacific. While I should be happy I made it to a the brave lady with no regrets refusing to eat grubs. Unless live audition, I’m sad to say I wasn’t picked. That changes I’m at risk of getting voted off, to which I’ll say, “Pass the today. ketchup”. I’m committed to catch the producers’ attention by Life is way too short girlfriend to not eat grubs. embarking on my own Survivor adventure. For the next 30 days, it’s my intention to complete daily physical challenges and…gulps…follow the Survivor diet, with one exception – no eating grubs. There is no amount  Beth Bryce, MS, CMCC, is a Career Strategist, Author of ketchup that could make grubs appealing. I’ll and Founder of Girls2Women Coaching. Beth is a featured be making a video documentary and at the end of Co-author in the newly released book, “Women on Fire Book 2” by Women on Fire Press. To find out more about coaching or workshops with Beth, visit www.bethbryce.com or email beth@bethbryce.com

Your local sewing store for Embroidery, Sewing, Or Repair. We have classes for the sewing enthusiast in you. Come in for a demo today or sign up for a class.

G-3306 Miller Rd In Yorkshire Plaza @ I-75

810-732-1066

Bringing Energy-Efficient Vehicles to the Bricks Flint has always been a leader in transportation. Now we are leading the way into the future with energy efficient vehicles.

Customer Service (810) 767-0100 • www.mtaflint.org

989.402.2627

Listen often/stay long.

July/August • WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN

• Hydrogen Fuel Cell • Clean Diesel Electric Hybrid • Clean Burning Propane Autogas

To be a guest, host or advertiser, please call

The Divalution, LLC is female owned and operated. Our purpose is “to empower, enlighten and entertain Divas and those that love us”, offering quality upbeat programming and familiar music throughout the day.

Simply Living 

WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN • www.w2wmichigan.com

Trading Education for a Different Kind of Adventure

I was wrong. Perhaps that’s where I should begin to explain how my oldest son Stephen ended up leaving college after his sophomore year. He was apprehensive about attending anyway, but he was smart and engaged in high school. I wholeheartedly believed that if he chose a great college in a terrific community – one that had both strong academics and a vibrant student life – he would love it. After all, if a tree exists in the middle of a forest fire, will it not also burn? “Do not ask Over the last two years, my husband that your kids and I coaxed and encouraged, thinking, live up to your “Perhaps this month it will work.” But quickly learned that you can lead a expectations. we horse to water, but you can’t make him Let your kids go to class. be who they Although older and wiser friends told are, and your me that I needed to let go (and even sang Frozen song to me), I couldn’t. It was expectations will the simply more complicated than that. be in breathless Education changed my life. I was a pursuit.” first generation college student who ~Robert Brault “carpe diemed” her way through four of the best years of her life. Ever since the kids were little, my husband and I repeated our college war stories to their delight. Early on, we committed to supporting them in ways our own parents could not. Over the last 20 years, we continually rearranged our personal, professional and financial lives to give them both options and opportunities. Today, we are discovering that parenting is full of surprises and that children ultimately select the paths they will take. I cling to Proverbs 22:6, “Point your

kids in the right direction—when they’re old they won’t be lost,” knowing all the while that children decide their own life adventures. As difficult as it is, they need the space and freedom to figure things out for themselves. I think of the choices I made at my son’s age that were much different than what my dad wanted for me. I went to college even though he thought I could never afford it. After college, my husband and I left jobs with benefits and security in order to pursue a dream. Repeatedly, my father listened and tentatively voiced his opinion before shrugging his shoulders and saying, “You gotta do what you gotta do.” It was the closest thing we would receive to his blessing. Now I know how my dad must have felt. Letting go is so much more than opening our clenched fists and whispering, “Fly, baby, fly.” It feels more like cutting off a limb and learning to live without it. Letting go sometimes means looking at life through another lens and still seeing its beauty. It means releasing what you always thought would be and embracing instead the unknown. While I grapple with it all, Stephen is quite happily making his way in the world. He’s sharing a second floor apartment with a friend in a city two hours away and working a fast food job he absolutely loves. He’s paying rent and buying groceries. He’s cooking and cleaning. He’s figuring it out. He’s content with his decision to pursue a different kind of education in his life; adventure. Right now, he simply doesn’t know what he doesn’t know … and he’s all right with that. I’m working on being all right with that, too.

 Eileen Button is the author of The Waiting Place: Learning to Appreciate Life’s Little Delays. She can be reached at buttonhouse@juno.com.

Wooden Playsets • Playhouses • Wooden Sheds • Cedar Log & Poly Lumber Furniture • Basketball Hoops

Best Quality, Best Pricing, Best Value Wooden Playsets in the Market.

We beat our competition’s

PRICE & SERVICE

Spring Opening Sale!!

Is your family ready for a quality wooden playset?

Mention this ad and get

$100 Off*

Call 1-866-665-0105 Ext#2 or visit WoodenPlayscapes.com

1385 S. Huron (M-13), Kawkawlin MI 48631 Mon 9am to 7pm • Tues - Fri 9am to 5pm • Sat 10am to 2pm Display Yard: 6100 Baron Dr., Bridgeport, MI 48722 Monday thru Sunday 12pm to 5pm Gorilla Playsets • PlayNation Playsets • Eastern Jungle Gym Playsets • Lifetime Products *Purchase of $1000.00 or more. Limit 1 discount per purchase. Any In-Stock Wooden Swing

July/August • WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN

Delivery & Installation Services Available

Find Adventure in Everyday Living

WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN • www.w2wmichigan.com

During childhood, everyday was an adventure! Connecting back yards provided us with football fields, ice skating rinks, boundaries for ghost in the graveyard and swinging statues, and an arena for our home-made Carnivals! In the woods across the street, we built camps, swung on vines, escaped pirates and became the Swiss Family Robison. Concrete streets offered the perfect flooring for our 4-square, kickball and softball games. And our garages, ah! So many original, award-winning productions were performed in our magnificent, makeshift theaters. Neighbors generously supported our efforts with a nickel per show. Inside our home was a whole other treasure trove of adventures!! With dress-ups and construction paper, blankets and pillows, we traveled the world! When I was a toddler, my mother did not have a car so we walked wherever we needed to go. So even going to the grocery store was an adventure! Did I mention she had 6 children at the time? Located just a block away, the trip began with the oldest kids running to the store to bring back a cart for us little kids to ride in. Laughing skipping, squealing, the big kids would help my mom push the cart-full-of-kids uphill to the store. Each week, the cart became a different fantasy vehicle - sometimes a boat or convertible, plane or space ship – and off we’d go. One of my favorite adventures was created by the Dad next door. With 2x4’s, plastic sheets and a garden hose, our winter wonderland came true. Who knew you could create an ice skating rink in your back yard on 3” of frozen water? From daybreak until our parents couldn’t keep their eyes open, we were in the Netherlands as Hans Christian Anderson, exploring the Swiss Alps or competing for Olympic Gold in Hockey! I flew, I floated, I glided through winters and dreamed myself into being on that little homemade ice rink!!

And at the end of each day, I would lie next to my big sister, Jeanne, who would ask, “What fun thing did you do today, Lainey?” And we would giggle ourselves to sleep as I recounted my fabulous escapade. Jeanne now enjoys her voyage playing with the angels – one trip I couldn’t take with her. And even though life has a way of stiffening, twisting and bleeding us, we CAN find adventure in everyday living. The first step is to reclaim your inner kid!! Age is irrelevant when it comes to having an adventure. Even though time may be short and our energy a little low, excitement surrounds us and is there for the taking! Second stop, look and listen – it is amazing what is right before our eyes. Today while sitting on my porch talking to a business associate, a mother and her new born fawn gingerly walked through the yard. The mail carrier and I were astounded – that baby was the smallest fawn we had ever seen!! A half-hour later, dad with his fuzzy 12-point antlers came searching for the pair. Still in awe, I watched as all three made a return trip right past me. Third always keep your adventure bag close at hand! Bubbles – check. Balloons – check. Music – check check. And hats; I’ve found hats are the ticket to the wild unknown. I can be anything and go anywhere just by changing my hat! No expensive trip required; no elaborate plans necessary. The adventure begins with you!

 Elaine Stenger, PhD., is the Author of “Dancing

in the Rain” and Co-Founder of Cairn Venture Group which produces Leadership Retreats for Women. “Connecting women to help change our world.” Visit: www.elainestenger.com or contact Elaine at estenger2@gmail.com

Send your student back to school in style, with these five fashion tips from celebrity stylist, Mark-Alan Harmon and Genesee Valley Center.

PACK A STATEMENT Backpacks are finding their way onto runways around the world, so the options for the back to school crowd have become immense. Pick a bright color, a fun print, or a modern shape with cool hardware.

HAUTE HOODIES Hoodies are no longer just a summer vacation souvenir. Get one that has a print, or a really cool texture.

SNEAK BY Gym shoes are for the gym, but all of the fun colored sneakers out there can be perfect for dashing around campus. No matter the brand, just make sure it’s a color that stands out.

WATCH OUT Keep your phones hidden during class with an old fashioned watch on your wrist. Big and bold is better.

SMART-TEES Go for some new tee shirts that don’t have logos or words on them. Get prints, stripes, or great textures. They are the renewed staple for everyone.

You can find all of these items and retailers at Genesee Valley Center, geneseemall.com.

Mark-Alan Harmon, Celebrity Stylist Mark-Alan Harmon is an LA Based celebrity stylist. His ability to translate the runways of the world to the streets of America has landed him on hundreds of television shows, countless red carpets, and the closets of the fashion elite.

July/August • WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN

Photo 1: Courtesy of Burlington Photo 2: Courtesy of Buckle Photo 3: Courtesy of Shoe Dept./Encore Photo 4: Courtesy of Dakota Watch Co. Photo 5: Courtesy of Vanity

Experience the fun and excitement of the Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Expo! This event is designed to entertain and inspire every guest with topics such as: health tips, fashion shows, educational speakers, workshops, shopping, dancing, exercising, pampering, decorating, home improvement and more. Exhibitors will offer products and services including: clothing and accessories, jewelry, salon, health, home & decorating, financial, coaching/motivational, cosmetics, education and more. Take advantage of this event to jump start your holiday sales. To insure your space, sign up today.

2 Markets 1Location

WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN â&#x20AC;˘ www.w2wmichigan.com

WW 22

M I C H I G A N W2WMICHIGAN.COM

Women’s WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN PRESENTS

OCTOBER 24 & 25 BIRCH RUN EXPO CENTER 11600 North Beyer Rd. Birch Run, MI 48415

July/August • WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN

Women2Women MICHIGAN info@w2wmichigan.com 810.694.2326 • Fax 810.694.2507

EXPO

WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN • www.w2wmichigan.com

Women on the Move 

PRESS RELEASE – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Founder of A Place for Grace Child Care receives Wally Bronner Community Spirit Award as an Everyday Hero SAGINAW, MICHIGAN (April 27, 2015) – On Wednesday, April 22, 2015, the American Red Cross recognized more than a dozen people for their selfless acts that impacted the lives of others. The 18th annual Everyday Heroes awards banquet, organized by the East Central Bay Chapter of the American Red Cross, was held at Horizons Conference Center in Saginaw Township. Awards were given in six categories. One of the highest honors, the Wally Bronner Community Spirit Award, was given to Jenny Dumont of Saginaw Township. Jenny is the Founder of A Place for Grace Child Care. A Place for Grace Child Care is the areas first ever daycare for special needs children. Their vision: Every Child Deserves a Little Grace. They serve and honor children who are mild to moderately cognitively impaired, emotionally impaired, autistic spectrum disorder, developmentally delayed or speech and language delayed, for after school and summer care. Jenny’s vision for A Place for Grace was created for her daughter Emma Grace. Emma is cognitively impaired, developmentally delayed and lives with epilepsy. The idea for a special needs daycare came to her after she had to pick up her daughter from daycare four times in one week after she kept having meltdowns that the center couldn’t manage. Jenny was shocked when she realized there was not a daycare for special needs kids where they could manage potential triggers to eliminate or reduce meltdowns. Upon research Jenny discovered that there were almost 7,000 kids grades 3-8 that qualified for special education in Saginaw County – and yet there was no place for them after school or during the summer that honored and served them. A Place for Grace Child Care offers a low caregiver to child ratio – 1 caregiver for every 4 children. Their staff is trained specifically to work with children with special needs and professional development is ongoing. A Place for Grace is licensed by the State of Michigan to offer care for 12 months old to 16 years old. Saginaw Township School students who qualify for transportation through the ISD are transported to A Place for Grace after school. A Place for Grace is also coordinating with local organizations to bring the children’s speech therapy, occupational and physical therapy and behavioral therapy to the center over the summer so that kids will continue to develop even when out of school. A scholarship program is available for families who need assistance paying for tuition costs which is funded solely from private donations who want to help these children have a safe place to learn to socialize and continue their growth and development. Children with special needs want what every other child wants, to have friends and play. A GoFundMe.com campaign is ongoing to accept donations for their scholarship fund. You can contribute at http://www.gofundme.com/ APlaceforGrace. You can visit www.aplaceforgracechildcare.org to watch a video and for more information. You can also find them on Facebook at A Place for Grace Child Care. Their facility is located within the First United Methodist Church at 4790 Gratiot Road, Saginaw, Michigan. CONTACT INFORMATION: Jenny Dumont, Founder & CEO A Place for Grace Child Care 4790 Gratiot Road Saginaw, MI 48638, USA Phone: 989.607-1741 Email: jennyd@aplaceforgracechildcare.com Website: www.aplaceforgracechildcare.org

Biking the Leelanau

On the list of best places to spend summer in Michigan, Traverse City comes out pretty high on the list. Great restaurants, beautiful beaches, interesting local shops and bookstores. But aside from the cherries and glistening Lake Michigan water, there’s a treasure hidden just outside the city. Linking Traverse City and the very posh Suttons Bay is the Leelanau trail. An easy seventeen mile bike ride in the sunshine that gives glimpses of the lapis-blue lake waters amidst the wild greenery of Michigan pines. A scenic trail that connects with Traverse City’s TART trail, you can begin at Boone’s restaurant in town, which serves some of the best seafood on Traverse Bay, and then head down the paved trail past apple orchards, dark, skyskimming pines and sprightly birch trees and wildflowers. The trail comes to an end in Suttons Bay, right at the beginning of the front street, which happens to be at the 45th parallel. Stop for something cool to drink at the 45th Parallel Cafe or grab some fudge at Candy World, (hey, you earned it!). Some quick shopping in downtown Sutton’s Bay and a peek at their beach

provides a little break from the hustle and bustle of the larger Traverse City, and the local shops have an incredible selection of art, wine, cheese, clothing and accessories. Heading back to TC? You have two options, hop back on that bike and enjoy a second look down the trail, wind in your hair, sunshine on your face, or take the bus. Yup, the bus. Traverse City’s Bike-N-Ride program allows you to take a leisurely ride down the trail, spend some quality time in Suttons Bay and then be ferried, along with your faithful bike, back to the beaches, shops and cherries of Traverse City.

 Alexandria Nolan is a misplaced Michigander currently living in the wilds of the Houston urban jungle with her husband and two spoiled pets. She is a published novelist and contributor to various online and print publications, including a lifestyle blog, Greetings from Nolandia. When not writing, she can be found reading or traveling, or reading about traveling.

Build a financial plan today for a confident future. Help provide a positive future for generations.

Teresa McClelland-Sargent CFP

810.733.5140 • G-4080 Miller Road, Flint financialtaxplan.com

Securities and advisory services offered through Royal Alliance Associates, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Additional advisory services offered through Financial Planning Advisory Corp. which is not affiliated with Royal Alliance.

July/August • WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN

LIFE IS A JOURNEY THAT STARTS AND ENDS WITH FAMILY Call Today!

Art@Work 

GFAC

Greater Flint Arts Council

FLINT JAZZ FESTIVAL

Produced by GFAC for the past twelve years, this thirtyfour year old festival features performances by local, regional and internationally known jazz musicians. The atmosphere is completed by food, beverage and hard goods vendors. This year’s festival will take place on the beautiful grounds of the Flint Cultural Center, August 14, 5-9PM and August 15 & 16 2:008:00PM.

Flint Jazz Festival was founded in 1981 by local musician Joe Freyre and the Peoples’ Jazz Band. A couple years prior, Mr. Freyre and Greater Flint Arts Council received a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts. The grant required them to produce 120 performances, and so they traveled across the United States and Europe. To keep the jazz energy going right here in Flint, Joe and the other band members started the Flint Jazz Festival the next year. At that time there was a lot of development around the Flint River downtown including the building of the bold and beautiful Riverbank Park. The first Flint Jazz Festival was produced in this new park and continued there for 32 of it’s 34 years. Due to renovations at Riverbank Park, the Flint Jazz Festival had to move this year to the grounds of the Flint Cultural Center. It will be on the large grassy tree-shaded area near Longway Blvd and Chavez.

WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN • www.w2wmichigan.com

This year’s “stars” will include NAJEE, a world famous saxophonist and Delfaeyo Marsalis, a trombonist and member of the famous Marsalis Jazz family. In all, there will be a dozen acts throughout the weekend including an interlude of tap dancing by “Tapology” on Saturday. The festival atmosphere will be completed by food vendors whose products will fill the air with the scent of delicious culinary delights as well as vendors of specialty items of interest. more.

TUNES AT NOON

This unique festival was created in 1999 to enhance the re-development of downtown Flint. Music is the universal language and we believed there would be no better way to make our downtown more inviting and sophisticated than to add lunch time concerts in the summer. We also believe if you’re going to do something do it large. We scheduled the concerts Monday through Friday for six weeks making a total of 30 lunch time concerts. To showcase all the wonderful talent we have right here in Genesee County, each year we choose musicians working in a diverse array of styles including jazz, blues, gospel, folk, R&B, pop, rock and more.

Wednesdays ~ Enjoy Half Off Bottles of Wine with Your Dinner

ALL MICHIGAN BEERS ON DRAFT

Genesee OB-GYN & Cosmetic Surgery, PLLC

Board Certified Obstetrician & Gynecologist in private practice for over 30 years and certified in liposuction and cosmetic gynecology. The only OB/GYN combining gynecology surgery with liposuction and/or cosmetic gynecology.

FREE Consultation

for all cosmetic procedures • Routine OB/Gyn Care • Endometriosis • Hysterectomy & Endometrial Ablation • Labor & Delivery • Tubal Ligation • Liposuction • Cosmetic Gynecology • Infertility

Visit my web site at www.theliposuction.net

Dr Celestine Joseph G-1104 S. Linden Rd. Flint, MI 48532

(810) 733-6210

July/August • WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN

Recipe 

Heirloom

WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN • www.w2wmichigan.com

W 28

Tomatoes

hen summer arrives and you bite into your first Michigan grown heirloom tomato from your local farmer’s market, the taste is amazing! The sun-ripened depth and variety of flavor in heirloom tomatoes just can’t be beat. Those heirlooms are actually varieties that have been around for at least 50 years. They have interesting names that often have a story to accompany them such as Mortgage Lifter, Green Zebra, Cherokee purple and German Johnson. But don’t expect them to look red and round because these gems are found in all shapes and sizes as well as colors, including orange, yellow, and green. They will also cost more than other tomatoes, and from a farmer’s perspective it’s because heirlooms are harder to grow, they don’t produce as much fruit as modern tomatoes and they are more susceptible to diseases and cracking. These tomatoes tend to not ship well or last long on your counter and are best purchased locally. But flavor makes up for any shortcomings… and once you’ve had your fill of raw tomato slices then try these ideas.

Roasted Heirloom Tomatoes

Preheat oven to 350 degrees Sliced heirloom tomatoes, enough to cover a sheet pan in a single layer 1-2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 4 tablespoons olive oil 2 heads of garlic separated and peeled salt and pepper Lay cut tomato slices on a sheet pan in a single layer. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Lay cloves from two heads of garlic among the tomatoes and roast for 45 minutes. Roasted tomatoes can be eaten warm or cool, used in pasta, or to make tomato soup.

Herb Tomato Salad 3 pounds 1 cup

heirloom tomatoes chopped mixed herbs including parsley, basil, mint and dill olive oil balsamic vinegar salt and pepper

Cut tomatoes into slices, wedges or both and arrange on a large platter. Season with salt and pepper and sprinkle herbs over the top.. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

 Erin Caudell owns and operates The Local

Grocer inside the Flint Farmers Market where sells all natural produce grown at her farm in Beecher, MI. Learn more about the farm and the store at www.TheLocalGrocer.com.

Let’s Have A Garden Party!

Summertime brings about simple breezes and warm sunshine. What better way to celebrate the season than to throw a garden party in your own backyard? Any setting will do and can be turned into a fun little al fresco venue for a few good friends. Here is our sweetly simple guide to putting on your own garden party. We recommend grabbing a friend because two hosts are always fun and better than one!

1. Pick your spot!

Keep in mind that a little shade can go a long way, whether that be a tree or an umbrella, you and your guests will stay cool for your barbecue.

2. Have fun with mismatched plates and glasses!

Stop by your local thrift store and pick up some pretty plates and cups for an inexpensive and carefree table setting. Take paper napkins and write inspirational words for each guest (or make them your name cards).

Create a fun center piece with fresh cut flowers from your garden (or pick up an inexpensive bouquet from the store). Add a few fun colored pinwheels into the vase and get ready for the fun!

The Drink: Watermelon Run

Ingredients: ¼ cup coconut water 1 tablespoon agave nectar 8 cups diced seedless watermelon (1 pound)

Preparation: 1. In a small saucepan, bring the coconut water to a simmer with the agave nectar and stir over moderate heat. Let syrup cool. 2. In blender, puree watermelon until smooth. Strain over bowl. Discard pulp. 3. In a large pitcher, combine syrup with lime juice and blueberries. Add the watermelon juice and tequila. Refrigerate until chilled, about 1½ hours. Photo credit: Specialty drink/ photopin

A summer salad of grilled vegetables and shrimp with a fresh cocktail will be an ease to prepare and sure to please all.

The Menu:

Slice up a variety of vegetables. Some of our recommendations are:

Zucchini • Portobello Mushrooms • Red Onion

Summer Squash • Tomatoes Shrimp: 2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined 2 teaspoons extravirgin olive oil ½ teaspoon ground cumin ¼ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon pepper 2 garlic cloves minced cooking spray cooking skewers

Salad:

8 cups

Dressing:

2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons 1½ tablespoons 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon ½ teaspoon ⅛ teaspoon

baby spinach (about 8 ounces) rice vinegar fresh orange juice extra virgin olive oil honey low-sodium soy sauce salt pepper

Preparation:

Prepare grill. Toss sliced vegetables with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt and pepper to taste. Put in foil. Grill for 5-7 minutes. Spray cooking spray over grill rack where shrimp skewers will be cooked. To prepare dressing, combine ingredients in a large bowl; stir well with a whisk. Set aside. To prepare shrimp, combine 2 teaspoons olive oil and ingredients for shrimp in a large bowl; toss well. Thread about 5 shrimp onto each of 6 skewers. Place skewers on grill rack; grill 3 minutes. To prepare salad, put spinach, grilled vegetables and dressing in large bowl and toss gently. Serve with shrimp skewers.

July/August • WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN

¼ cup fresh lime juice 2 cups blueberries 1 ¼ cups tequila ice

Photo credit: Grilled Shrimp Gazpacho Salad Bistro/ photopin

Leslie's Learnings 

WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN • www.w2wmichigan.com

If you’re looking for a sign, this is it.

“I just wish I would get some kind of sign.” I wish I had a dollar for every time I have muttered that phrase. I have cried out to the universe pleading for signs about everything from, “gold or silver with this outfit?” to “which career path should I follow?” to “should I break up with him?” I actually still had an active thought bubble above my head, reading, “just give me a sign”, one day as I stumbled across a Pinterest picture of what a street sign that read: If you are looking for a sign, this is it. Do you know I actually initially thought, “This can’t be a sign, it’s just too obvious?” What exactly could the universe do that would satisfy my need for that elusive sign? It is almost as if I need an Acme anvil (a ‘la Wile E. Coyote) to fall from the sky and land on my head or something. That would probably just kill me, but it would certainly be a sign. The truth is, I may never be 100-percent certain of my choices. Fate, God, the Universe, Carl Sagan, your gut- whatever or whomever you may demand a sign from, plants them all over the place. I think a lot of us simply miss or question them. In truth, every choice I have made in my life brought me to exactly where I am right now. I cannot un-do any of it. Not really. Furthermore, when I think about the good things I would have missed- even if I had avoided my most glaring personal disasters- I know that I would

“This can’t be a sign, it’s just too obvious?”

probably repeat a lot of those mistakes, given the chance. The truth, as I have come to understand it, is that even misinterpreting a sign and acting on it is always infinitely better than doing nothing. My greatest regrets in life are not about my “wrong” choices, but about the ones I never made. I have wasted time, opportunities and even valuable life lessons with every decision I have avoided. I don’t know about you, but I can honestly say that every choice I have not made can be traced back to a simple, four-letter word: fear. I am afraid I will made a mistake, do something wrong or look foolish. Any of those fears could be realized; in fact, they all could. So what? The worst that could happen, still could not possibly be as bad as standing around, waiting for a mystical sign, and being killed by a falling anvil, pushed over a cliff by a cartoon character. Ironically, Wile E. Coyote clearly missed every sign telling him that his life’s work probably should not be chasing after speedy birds; and look at how many of his own anvils have landed on his head.

 Leslie Toldo is a writer and blogger,

who also worked on-air in TV and radio for nearly 25 years. Leslie officiates weddings and funerals. She lives in Fenton with her husband and three dogs. She is an avid runner and serves on the Board of Directors of the Humane Society of Genesee County. You can connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, and at www.leslietoldo.com.

Huge Supply of Round Paint/Wax Brushes

We Carry 3 Lines of Furniture Paint

OCTOBER 9 & 10

Vintage Soul Chalk Based Paint Vintage Market & Design Chalk Based Paint Mud Paint Furniture Paint

Best Consignment rates in town

JANUARY 9 JANUARY 29-31

55/45 split! Valley Plaza on Miller Rd. • 810-339-6403

Suspi io Smec llsus

re Moring o Sn

When the Writing is on the Wall Divorce •Custody • Support

FEBRUARY 12 & 13

BRIGHT LIGHTS AND BROADWAY at The Whiting

Plus...

ROBERT CRAY BAND Friday, September 18 @ 8pm

BLACK VIOLIN

Friday, September 25 @ 7:30pm

ROMEO & JULIET

Wednesday, October 14 @ 7:30pm

THE GLASS HOUSE Tuesday, November 3 @ 7pm

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE: A LIVE RADIO PLAY Thursday, December 10 @ 7:30pm

MANHEIM STEAMROLLER Tuesday, December 15 @ 7:30pm

810.235.1970 iness

lonel e y b od

e M o l l He

1241 E. KEARSLEY ST. FLINT MICHIGAN 48503

THEWHITING.COM LIKE US ON

/THEWHITINGFLINT

July/August • WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN

DumpMySpouse.com

APRIL 9 & 10

Millennials Business 

WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN • www.w2wmichigan.com

Maddening or Magnificent?

By 2020, half the workforce will be Millennials (those born after 1982.) You remember, the kids we doted on and gave trophies to for everything… The question is… Are you prepared to work with them? I’ve actually had clients pulling their hair out trying to manage these young employees because many of them don’t appear as committed or focused as they should be. In fact, several have wanted to give up hiring them all together! But, of course, it’s going to be a bit tough running a company with no employees. Truthfully Millennials might be different from those of us in the Baby Boom generation, but they bring a tremendous amount of value and given the right environment they can become your best asset. So, rather than give up, read the tips outlined below and put a plan together today to develop your next generation of leaders. 5 Tips for Motivating Your Millennials 1. Provide leadership and guidance. Millennials want to look up to you, learn from you, and receive daily feedback. They want “in” on the whole picture and to know the scoop. Plan to spend a lot of time teaching and coaching and be aware of this commitment to Millennials when you hire them. They want your investment of time in their success. 2. Encourage the Millennial’s self-assuredness, “can-do” attitude, and positive self-image. Millennials are ready to take on the world. Their parents told them they can do it and they can. Encourage – don’t squash or contain them. 3. Millennial are up for a challenge and change. Boring is bad. They seek ever-changing tasks within their work. “What’s happening next,” is their mantra. Don’t bore them, ignore them, or trivialize their contribution. 4. Capitalize on the Millennial’s affinity for networking. Not just comfortable with teams and group activities, your Millennial employees like to network around the world electronically. 5. Provide a life-work balanced workplace. Your Millennials are used to cramming their lives with multiple activities. They may play on sports teams, walk for multiple causes, and spend lots of time with family and friends. They’re willing to work hard, but they are not into the sixty hour work weeks defined by the Baby Boomers. Home, family, and spending time with the children are priorities. Bottom Line You can complain about your youngest employees or appreciate them for who they are and learn how best to manage them. It will take time, but they have a “can-do” attitude, look for a variety of tasks and expect to accomplish every one of them. In fact, they’re ready to take on the world. And, doesn’t that sound like someone you’d love to have on your team?



Dawn Drozd is an award-winning Coach and Founder of ClearVision Small Business Advisors. Her book, The Success Code is available on Amazon. com. For a FREE guide to create more success in your business, visit her website at ClearVision.us.com

July/August • WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN

LAW

Terry R. Bankert Attorney and Advanced Certified Mediator (810) 235-1970

FINANCIAL PLANNING Teresa McClellandSargent, CFP® Financial & Tax Planning (810) 733-5140 mcte1129@yahoo.com

Alimony

Alimony is not guaranteed as it was during the times our parents may have divorced. The liberation of women followed by advanced training and/ or college degrees have given women what they wished for, independence. Alimony may be Ordered to be paid to the under-earning spouse, but in most cases, for only a temporary period of time. If one spouse has been the stay at home spouse/ parent while the other spouse sought an advanced degree or advanced career path, then alimony is likely to be Ordered. The age and health of the Party seeking alimony is a factor, the number of years the Parties were married, the ability to earn, the lifestyle the spouse is accustomed to, the level of education or training the non-working spouse currently has, what compensation the current workforce pays for such current employment skills, and consideration of the remaining number of years the spouse will work.

WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN • www.w2wmichigan.com

Alimony entitlement, also known as spousal support, is an asset that can be thought of as property and can be negotiated for additional interest in financial instruments or tangible property. For instances, in lieu of monthly spousal support payments the spouse due to receive such support may elect to receive a greater share of the opposing party’s pension, potential continued health care coverage, equity in the marital home, or a vehicle upgrade. Much like creative finance when purchasing a home, the right to spousal support can be used as an acquirement without the tax ramifications. Spousal Support is typically taxable to the spouse receiving and deductible to the spouse paying. Contact my office with further questions about your possible claim to spousal support.

I am in my 50’s and have been thinking more and more about retirement, how do I know how much I really need to retire? Everyone’s situation is different. Everyone lives life differently and has different expectations for what they want their retirement to look like. There is no blanket answer. If you enjoy traveling and going to new places abroad, you may require more funds then someone who would rather stay state side. If you prefer a new car every two year you may require extra to cover payments or purchases. There are a few things that you can do to help you get a grasp of your families spending. I recommend tracking your spending for a solid two months. This will give you a clear idea where money is going currently. Questions you will need to ask yourself, will there be any large debt payments in retirement such as home mortgage, vacation home costs or new cars? What are your goals in retirement? Don’t forget to consider healthcare costs. This is one of the most overlooked expenses in retirement planning. The answers to these few questions alone will give you a good idea and a good place to start. After you evaluate where your money is going currently, you could consult a Certified Financial Planner® in developing a full retirement plan. They can help you look ahead, take your assets and goals and bring them to life. Securities and advisory services offered through Royal Alliance Associates, Inc. a registered broker-dealer and member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory Services and insurance offered through Financial Planning Advisory Corp., a Registered Investment Advisor, which is not affiliated with Royal Alliance. Financial & Tax Planning Inc. is not affiliated with Royal Alliance or registered as a broker-dealer or investment advisor.

Gala

Whaley Tux & Tennies May 9, 2015

July/August • WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN

Who

Ne ed s

a son Per

WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN • www.w2wmichigan.com

Brand?

“Why fit in when you were born to stand out?” – Dr. Seuss Who needs a personal brand? You do. That’s because customers, clients, they have choices. About a gazillion, according to the latest numbers. When you offer a service or a product, you need to stand out from all the competitors. Your brand is what makes you memorable in a sea of sameness. Let’s be clear. Personal branding isn’t some secret system or shady method to trick more people into buying your stuff. Your personal brand should be based on taking the aspects of you and your business that are different (and that matter in the marketplace) and communicating your special flavor throughout your business. But to leverage the power of your personal brand, you need to be deliberate. People are already categorizing you based on attributes they see. Why not take control of the impression you make? Your personal brand should do three things for you: • Provide a distinctive identity • Convey a compelling message • Draw your ideal contacts and clients to you Your brand is the promise of an outstanding experience. You communicate it to everyone that you interact with through the way that you speak, your dress, what you talk about, your website, your office, and your work. What’s the payoff for having a powerful personal brand? When you’re distinctive, you’ll cut through the clutter. Potential clients will notice you. They will remember you. And when you get it right, the right people will be drawn, like a magnet, to work with you. So how do you create a compelling personal brand? It comes down to figuring out what separates you from all the other financial advisors/photographers/personal trainers/life coaches/career consultants.

Start by crafting a set of guidelines for yourself and your business: • What you will do • What you won’t do • What you deliver • How you deliver it Next, clear on your belief systems: • What’s your big vision for yourself and your business? • How do you want to put your “dent in the universe”? • What are your business and personal values that guide how you will operate? Finally, think about how you want people to feel after interacting with you. What EMOTIONS will your personal brand evoke? Are you inspiring, practical, bold, powerful, sassy, warm, enthusiastic? Pick two or three emotions that you want people to feel and use them as guideposts for your communications. You develop your personal brand by taking the ‘what’ that your business provides, and then customizing it with who you are, who you serve and how you deliver it. The final step is to deliver that bespoke (er, haute couture) experience to the world. Your assignment: Figure out your personal brand formula. Get clear on your business guidelines, your belief systems and the emotions your personal brand will evoke. Weave those into your interactions and your business.

 Lori Nash Byron is the founder of FamousinYourField. com, where leaders and professionals build a powerful brand, attract more clients and position themselves as experts in their industries through speaking, publishing and publicity. Go to FamousinYourField.com to get a free workbook, 97 Ways to Build Your Fame Factor.

July/August • WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN

Health 

Don’t Let Dental Emergencies Ruin Your Summer!

We’re Growing! Sales Position Open

Strong background in sales? Submit your resume! W2W is looking for a strong sales team for our magazine. Excellent Commissions! It’s good to plan for busy activities, but what do you do if you or a loved one has a dental problem away from home? Here are some common problems and what to do about them: Tooth knocked out of the mouth requires immediate attention. First, try to find the tooth and put it in milk. If you don’t have milk handy, wrap it in a tissue and spit saliva on it to keep it wet. Second, go to the dentist. Don’t wait hours or the next day, even it’s a weekend. Almost all dentists will open their office for a bona fide emergency.

Fast growing publishing and events planning company needs self starter to grow with us

SALES EXECUTIVES: Only upbeat, professional and personable applicants need apply. Marketing/Media sales experience preferred. Excellent commission.

Chipped or broken tooth: If there is pain or bleeding, ice compresses may help reduce swelling. Be careful not to let ice touch the broken tooth! See a dentist right away.

WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN • www.w2wmichigan.com

A crown or cap came off: Put it in a tissue and see if it is broken or cracked. If it looks ok, clean the inside with a cotton swab and water. Get a drugstore “temporary” dental cement or Dentemp. Follow the directions, do not overfill. Don’t chew on that tooth until you can get to a real dentist.

Lost filling: Usually Ok for a day or two using that same dental cement if you are in a remote area, but you need to see a dentist soon. If you have a toothache, Urgent Care might start you on antibiotics before you can see a dentist. Tell your dentist if you are traveling a distance with temporary crowns or bridges in your mouth. He or she may have special suggestions. The best advice is to wear a mouth guard during contact sports or where there is a potential for injury. Happy, Healthy Summer! Sherry Regiani from the office of Regiani Holistic Dental Center

 Sherry Regiani has been in the dental field since 1970;

first as an assistant then as a hygienist. Over the past 30 years, Sherry transitioned into dental management and serves as practice administrator for her husband, David W Regiani DDS.

info@w2wmichigan.com

810.694.2326

Please submit resumes only to Women2Women Michigan 536 Perry Rd. Suite 7 Grand Blanc, MI 48439

Shopping for a

Apply today!*

new car?

id you know that you can finance your new vehicle through Financial Plus at most dealerships? For a complete listing of all the dealerships, please logon on to www.financialplusfcu.org/ loans_autodealers.php.

ou can also obtain a pre-approval and finance directly at any Financial Plus branch. Stop by to talk with one of our loan officers today!

(800) 748-0451 • www.financialplusfcu.org/loans_autos.php

Affordable Payments*

10 minute Auto Loan Pre-approval** No Application Fee

*Equal Opportunity Lender. Rates, terms, and conditions are subject to change and may vary based on creditworthiness, qualifications, and collateral conditions. APR = Annual Percentage Rate. All loans subject to approval. See Credit Union for full details. **10 minute pre-approval during normal business hours only. Must apply and qualify for pre-approval.

back to school GET YOUR GEAR

3341 S. Linden Rd., Flint Twp • 810.732.4000 • geneseemall.com

July/August • WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN

Gymboree | Hollister | American Eagle

WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN PRESENTS

women’s EXPO

Oct 24 & 25 2 Markets 1 Location

DIY W2W Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Car Care Everyone Can Do

M I C H I G A N W2WMICHIGAN.COM

Call TO VENDORS RESERVE YOUR BOOTH TODAY

WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN • www.w2wmichigan.com

OPEN ENROLLMENT TO ALL

Reserve Your Space Today Call us at 810.694.2326 or visit our website at w2wmichigan.com

11600 North Beyers Rd. Birch Run, MI 48415

While taking your car to an auto service professional is a great way to ensure its performance, the Car Care Council reminds vehicle owners there are few simple vehicle checks that they can easily learn and do themselves to save a little money and help keep their vehicles running efficiently all summer long. With basic knowledge of common maintenance practices and a little time, motorists can inspect the following components in their own driveway: Check the tires, including tire pressure and tread. Uneven wear indicates a need for wheel alignment. Tires should also be checked for bulges and bald spots. Check all fluids, including engine oil, power steering and brake and transmission, as well as windshield washer fluid and antifreeze/ coolant. Check the hoses and belts as they can become cracked, brittle, frayed, loose or show signs of excessive wear. These are critical to the proper functioning of the electrical system, air conditioning, power steering and the cooling system. Check the wipers and lighting so that you can see and be seen. Check that all interior and exterior lighting is working properly and inspect and replace worn wiper blades. Keep the reservoir filled with windshield washer fluid. To keep the cooling system working effectively, the coolant and distilled water mixture for a vehicle’s radiator should be 50:50. Never open a hot radiator cap when checking the coolant level in the reservoir. As a rule of thumb, the coolant should be changed annually on most vehicles. Check the gas cap to ensure it is not damaged, loose or missing to prevent gas from spilling or evaporating. Don’t neglect the exterior. When washing the outside, make sure to include the tires and wheels and the underside and fenders to eliminate any road salt or grime. The body of the vehicle should be washed using a product sold specifically for cars. Wax your vehicle every six months. To learn more about how to care for you vehicle, and for a free copy of the popular Car Care Guide, visit www.carcare.org. Courtesy of Family Features

LO e again your legs

ELIMINATE VARICOSE VEINS & IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH

LOVE YOUR LEGS AGAIN! Eliminate your varicose veins simply and virtually pain-free at Hurley Vascular Center: • Minimally invasive laser procedures, like VenaCure EVLT • Most procedures take less than an hour • You can resume normal activity immediately • Procedures performed by board-certified vascular surgeons • No general anesthesia required

Contact the expert staff at Hurley Vascular Center at 810.262.6555 to learn more about the effective, minimally invasive treatments available.

1125 South Linden Rd Suite 100, Flint 810.262.6555 VASCULAR SURGEONS:

Mohmmed Margni, MD Babatunde Almaroof, MD

July/August • WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN

• Reimbursed by Medicare and most insurances

Don’t Tell My Wife I Wrote This 

Sometimes They Come Back

WOMEN2WOMEN MICHIGAN • www.w2wmichigan.com

Stephen King wrote a short story entitled Sometimes They Come Back. I suspect that King may have been thinking of his young adult children when he came up with the title. Now, I can’t really complain. Our high school graduated spawn are doing well. They work, they go to college, no one is pregnant. The fact, however, that they are large people living in my house does create moments of intense family bonding. This, I theorize, is a direct result of the rebellion. I’m not sure when the rebellion occurred. I suspect it was around the time they both realized that we couldn’t legally ground them anymore. Nor would we want to. That would only keep them in the house longer. Threats of terminating their resident status is often met with subtle threats from my beloved wife, often involving suspicious substances in my coffee. It is not, as I said, that they are bad children. Honestly, I believe Mary Poppins could not have raised more well-behaved kids. But at some point during their young lives, God inserted free will. Oddly, their free will does not match my own. And I, being a man who loves the simple pleasures, find this remarkable. For example, I cannot comprehend why anyone would prefer Mortal Combat to a three hour nap on a Saturday afternoon. And--you might want to sit down for this one--young adult children actually dislike my preference for Molly Ringwald movies over Jennifer Lawrence. Go figure. I mean...it’s Molly. Though their movie tastes come as no surprise. We are talking about people who’ve watched Frozen a dozen times but cannot see the educational and artistic value of The Lego Movie. Then there is the issue of vehicles and their proper place. I had no garage prior to 1995. This first garage, of course, was to provide sheltered parking for my wife, the second spot being reserved for a growing collection of bicycles, basketballs, and

discarded monuments to Fisher Price. Ten years later, I bought a bigger garage. It came with a house attached to it, so I could hardly pass that up. I provide that backstory so we are all in agreement that a man’s garage privileges come after decades of scraping frost and enduring many a soaking during his dash to the car. So, I believe we are in agreement once again when I say a woman-child of 21 has not yet earned that same privilege. This is often unclear. Finally, we have the long and potentially hostile discussion of food. Large people eat more than small ones. This I understand. But their herd instinct has the unintended effect of attracting the large adult-children of other families. When your kitchen has turned into the grazing lands of these herds, you often come home to a kitchen as barren as any gazelle-raided savannah. After my long walk through the rain from my parking spot in the street, I am famished, and this lack of basic nutrients makes me a bit grumpy. It’s okay, though. I will enjoy the short time I have left with these, my children. The fondest memories of any family are contained within that short period when all are under the same roof. Life is fleeting, as they say. In fact, I think I’ll sit down for a family movie night. What shall it be? Sixteen Candles or The Breakfast Club? Until next time...don’t tell my wife I wrote this.

 Ron Estrada resides with his wife, Kelly, two

children, two cats, and a terrier-mix in Oxford. When not pursuing the spiritual gift of napping, he’s at work on his latest novel or some freelance project (he accepts cash, check, PayPal, or smoked pork shoulder). You can email him at rmestrada@ameritech.net or visit his website at ronestradabooks.com.

Shopping

new car?

ou can also obtain a pre-approval and finance directly at any Financial Plus branch. Stop by to talk with one of our loan officers today!

for a

Affordable Payments*

10 minute Auto Loan Pre-approval** No Application Fee

Apply today!* (800) 748-0451

www.financialplusfcu.org/loans_autos.php

Healthy Smiles Don’t Bleed

When was the last time you ENJOYED going to the dentist?

Velscope® and Oral I.D.® oral cancer detection.

State of the art sterilization center

• Science-based, Mercury-Free and Mercury-Safe since 1981 • TMJ and Bite Imbalance diagnosis & care • CEREC 3D same-day crowns • Velscope® Oral Cancer early detection • Fluoride-free • Ozone Therapy • Non-surgical Periodontal Care • Lumineers® and Cosmetic Dentistry • Invisalign® clear braces • Homeopathy, Herbs and so much more!

CEREC in-office custom milling machine - makes a permanent crown in the time it used to take to make a temporary one!

Microscope used for Periodontal Disease

Hours: Mon-Tues 8am-5:30pm; Wed-Thurs 7:30am-5pm most Fridays 8am-3:30pm David W Regiani DDS PC is now

Regiani Holistic Dental Center We have moved! New location and mailing address: 10435 Ortonville Rd, Suite B, Clarkston, MI 48348

248-625-5222 • www.RegianiDental.com www.facebook.com/RegianiHolisticDental