Simply Hers January/February 2024 by Marlanea McGraw

JAN/FEB 2024

SH S I M P L Y

it’s a woman thing! BRANCH/HILLSDALE/LENAWEE/JACKSON

H E R S

Sarah

BUTLER

PMHNP-BC

Hillsdale Hospital

Act Now for a Healthier Future! WHY YOU SHOULD HAVE A SKIN CARE ROUTINE

Party Tips WHAT IS PODCASTING?

Plus

MEAL PREP RECIPES

FREE

For every stage of health.

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Primary Care Clinics Emergency Room Outpatient Services Specialty Surgeons & Physicians

By Rob Shewman

from the publisher

Ask

By Rob Shewman

Anyone else look at “2024” and think it’s just not possible? I remember when we hit the year 2000 and I thought it was unbelievable. Here we are, almost a quarter of a century past that!!!

After being in the automotive repair business for 30 years and with help from artist David Youngman, we have come up with a second logo

This issue is our “new year, new you” theme, and we hope you will find some articles that inspire you to find some new things to try in the coming year. It isn’t only about the possibility of losing weight or getting in shape (not that those aren’t positive goals!) but simply trying something you haven’t done before to improve your health, learn a new skill, or have a new adventure whether large or small.

Expert

Happy New Year!

Marlanea McGraw Owner/Publisher

summarize and symbolize Our cover focuses on Sarah Butler, the director of behavioral health services at Hillsdale After being in the automotive repair everything businessabout for 30Glory years to andGod. with help Hospital. Sarah is providing mental health care in a wide variety of venues in Hillsdale County and is making a positive from artist David Youngman, we difference for many people. have come up with a second logo First of all, we have Glory to God— the name is our purpose in life, our The fitness article covers many changes you can make for better health, and we’ve covered good reasons to meal prep summarize and symbolize everything along with providing three recipes to help you get started. command to live by. 1 Corinthians 10:13 about Glory to God.

says, “… do all to the glory of God.” That howGlory we started in 1981, and Two new features begin with this issue: podcasts and party tips. If you’ve never tried listening to a podcast, read about First ofScan all, weis have toQR God— The although we may fall our short as humans,what they are and then check out the self-care podcasts we’ve highlighted. Each issue this year will also feature tips for the name is our purpose in life, two different kinds of parties—this time it’s Mardi Gras for February and spring for March. command live 1 Corinthians 10:13 each and thattoisCODE stillby.our goal and desire (with your says, “… do alltime to thewephone) glory of God.” every service your vehicle.

Please take some time to look at the ads, as we owe the existence of this publication to the support of our advertisers. Thatto is how we started in 1981, and opt in to our Our small communities wouldn’t be what they are if we didn’t have these professional, service, and retail resources, so although we may fall short as humans, SECOND IS CAR&SENSE text services go local whenever you can! that is still our goal and desire each and This is $20.24 how we work together: everyreceive time we service your vehicle. YOUR car, YOUR sense, YOUR Wishing you all a safe and amazing New Year! off your next SECOND IS CAR SENSE — service of $100 Youis how knowweyour better than anyone, This workcar together: or more. YOURand car, YOUR sense, YOUR cents. your senses will alert you to

appy Thanksgiving

RRY CHRISTMAS

change that may need to be Happyanyaddressed. New Year When your senses pick up You know your car better than anyone, and your senses will alert you to on something, we are here to diagnose any change that may need to be andWhen evaluate youpick andupto give you addressed. yourfor senses optionswe to are savehere youtothe most cents. on something, diagnose and evaluate for you and to give you tokeyword save youtime, the most Until next thiscents. has been Robert Theresaoptions Shewman

“hallelujah” from Glory to God and Sense. Jeff Layman KerryCar Kelly

Service Manager

Simply Hers SALES STAFF

Sherry Sheffer

Certified Technician State Certified Technician Until nextState time, this has been Robert 46 Years 31 Years from Glory to God and Car COMBINED Sense. OVER 100 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE,

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EDITOR Melissa McCance GRAPHIC DESIGNER Dakota Harding PHOTOGRAPHY Synergy In Motion Studios CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Melissa McCance Laura Loveberry Willie Smith Nancy Ryan Diane Clow Kendra Zieman

Tracie Clough

On the Cover 10

Sarah Butler, PMHNP-BC Hillsdale Hospital

Fashion 16

Beauty 20

Wool - Classic & Timeless

Skin Care is Self-Care

MUSCLE UP. Live Fit. 22 Act Now for a Healthier Future!

Ask the Doctor 24 What Is Self-Care?

Life is the Berries 30 Trial Trail

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Lessons from a Longarm Quilter

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Book and Author Reviews

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Self-Care

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An Explanation

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On the Cover: Sarah Butler, PMHNP-BC (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified) is the director of behavioral health services at Hillsdale Hospital, and she is making great strides towards ensuring that those who need help get it. 6 | SimplyHers.net

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Cover Feature

Sarah Butler

Championing Rural Mental Health by Melissa McCance

ue to sensationalized portrayals in movies and over-the-top television shows, mental health issues and their treatment are the most misunderstood area of health care. Although there certainly are people with extreme mental illness, sometimes it’s simply a matter of too much happening in a person’s world at one time. Sarah Butler, PMHNP-BC (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified) is the director of behavioral health services at Hillsdale Hospital, and she is making great strides towards ensuring that those who need help get it. A graduate of Pittsford High School, Sarah began working at Hillsdale Hospital in 2001 and then earned her R.N. degree at Jackson Community College (now Jackson College) in 2005. She later returned to school at Spring Arbor University, earning her B.S.N degree. Her first nursing job at Hillsdale Hospital was in the orthopedics department where she worked for about seven years. Wanting a change of pace, she tried moving to the night shift in the mental health unit as the nursing manager, but after three months of working nights with three very young children at home, Sarah realized that schedule was not sustainable. “So, then I moved to the day shift in this unit, learned the ropes, and fell in love with it. Absolutely fell in love with it.” Wanting to extend her career in mental health nursing, Sarah earned her master’s degree from Maryville University and became a psychiatric nurse practitioner, a position she has held for almost three years. In her job, Sarah evaluates, diagnoses, and treats mental illness in a variety of populations including the patients in Hillsdale Hospital’s adults-only, 10 bed inpatient unit.

10 | SimplyHers.net

Outpatient services were added last September, and she is leading the mental health services provided to outpatients in the hospital. Twice a month, Sarah visits the Hillsdale College campus to see students and faculty, and, twice a week, she sees inmates at the Hillsdale jail. In addition, she works in conjunction with Hope House to provide psychiatric care while the Hope House staff addresses their residents’ substance abuse issues. Sarah has a deep commitment to and enthusiasm for her work and loves all the diverse populations who are her patients.

“Each and every one is so different, and they’re so great. Every place I go . . . I like them all. The world of mental health is so incredibly misunderstood. What I like most about it is helping people travel that journey because people are scared—scared to death—about what they’re feeling and what they did. Many people are afraid to work in psych because of the misconceptions and stereotypes. It’s not like ‘One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest.’ We have many types of people, all walks of life, and some are brilliant, brilliant people who are just going through a hard time. What I like best about it is educating and explaining and helping people know the world of mental health.”

When asked what she would like to see happen in the future for the mental health services, Sarah said she would like to have a therapist brought on board for the outpatient practice as well as more substance abuse resources. To a field that can be extremely challenging and demanding, Sarah Butler brings dedication, expertise, and compassion. She is making an enormous difference through her work in the Hillsdale Hospital psychiatric unit and across the community. Her prime motivation is guiding struggling people to navigate and overcome the challenges in their lives. Life these days can be overwhelming— Hillsdale County residents are very fortunate to have Sarah on their side.

One thing that she does find frustrating is the lack of resources for mental health and the fact that accessing those resources can require more than a struggling individual can manage. If someone is profoundly depressed to the point where just getting out of bed is a challenge, getting dressed and driving to an appointment or completing a stack of forms will probably not be a realistic goal. There is also a serious problem with access to services in rural areas for children and adolescents. A new tool that Sarah feels has a great deal of promise is GeneSight, a genetic testing service that helps pinpoint which psychiatric medications will be the most effective for a particular patient. Not only does it point the provider to medications that are most likely to help, but it allows ineffective or inappropriate medications to be screened out.

Superserving the Tri-State Area Since 1955 We’re proud of our community heritage and partnerships, serving you with local personalities and the information that affects our listeners—news, weather, sports, and community events.

Thank you for a great 2023, and we wish you a Happy 2024!

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WOOL Classic & Timeless

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Naturally insulating, water-repellent, durable, and often anti-microbial, wool has long served as a go-to textile for garments. That history is what gives wool garments such a classic and timeless style. 17

With history from thousands of years ago, wool is one of the most notable fabrics when it comes to keeping warm in the winter. Not only does it have a proven track record of effectively insulating, but it is also hypoallergenic, odor-resistant, breathable, and moisture-wicking. You probably already have cozy socks, a warm scarf, and a lasting winter hat made of wool.

Coats With cold temperatures comes the need for a seriously warm winter coat. If a puffer jacket isn’t your style, a piece of fabulous wool outerwear is a wardrobe staple that will pay off for years to come. A beautiful, structured wool coat is a classic investment piece that will never go out of style. Gorgeous top coats and funnel-neck wrap coats will stand the test of time. Whether you’re leaning toward classic colors like black, camel, navy, and olive; prints like plaid and houndstooth; or statement-making brights, the best women’s wool coats will complete any cold-weather outfit, all while protecting you from the elements.

18 | SimplyHers.net

Sweaters Any time you want to stay warm but don’t necessarily want to layer up, think wool sweater. A wool sweater is a sophisticated choice for winter days at the office or for an evening out when you don’t want to wear a bulky sweater under your cold-weather jacket. When traveling during the winter months, a merino wool sweater is an item worth packing because it is super lightweight, durable, and very versatile. Merino wool is not just perfect for cold weather, it is also fantastic for warm weather because it helps keep you cool. Another advantage is that it wicks away moisture while retaining air flow, keeping you warm and toasty while you’re out!

Activewear No man-made fiber can match the qualities of wool fiber. Breathable, superior moisture management, quiet when moving, and odor resistant—these are all qualities that make wool perfect for activewear clothing.

Skin Care is Self-Care Why a Skin Care Routine Is Good for Your Mental Health

Regular Skin Pampering Triggers a Cascade of Chemicals in Your Brain That Boost Your Mood

A skin care routine may seem like a throwaway wellness habit — but it’s anything but. Committing to and following such a regimen can benefit the health of your body’s largest organ (that’s your skin, notes the National Library of Medicine) and deliver the bonus of providing the structure and pampering that benefits your psychological well-being.

Create a routine that feels good and includes products that you enjoy using. For example, don’t underestimate the impact of a gentle massage with a warm washcloth to cleanse, then taking extra time to smooth a silky moisturizer on your face or apply a mask.

“Caring for my skin is one of the first steps in my self-care routine,” says Erum Ilyas, MD, a board-certified dermatologist with Schweiger Dermatology Group in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania. Yes, she’s a dermatologist, so naturally she’s skin-focused, but there’s good reason for the dermal attention. “The reality is that our skin in so many ways is a ‘check engine light’ for our internal health. When skin looks and feels good, we tend to feel better about ourselves,” she says.

20 | SimplyHers.net

Many people started experimenting with at-home facial treatments like masks and peels during the COVID-19 pandemic and got turned on to other self-care at home. Joyce Davis, MD, a dermatologist in New York City, recommends sticking with a mask or an over-the-counter peel if you’d like a more concentrated skin treatment. Generally, masks are gentler and can temporarily plump the skin to give you a youthful, refreshed appearance, while “at-home peels can freshen your skin and help to even out pigmentation and reduce acne,” she says. The experience of an at-home facial or treatment is certainly comforting, but you also may get something out of just planning for it. “Anticipation of happy events releases feel-good neurotransmitters in the brain,” says Traube. Research has shown that the expectation of a positive event activates a certain area of the prefrontal cortex, a brain region associated with a sense of well-being, creating a simple, natural high.

This is one reason why baths are so inherently calming. First, you expect to feel relaxed as you lower into one, and second, the warm water is naturally relaxing to muscles. “Physical relaxation sends your brain the message that it’s time to be calm and mellow, reducing the fight-or-flight stress response,” says Traube. To make your bath an act of self-care that improves your skin health at the same time, add oatmeal to the water and soak for 10 minutes, Dr. Davis suggests. Look for packets of colloidal oatmeal which eases eczema, psoriasis, and generally dry or irritated skin.

Why Self-Care, Including Skin Care, Is So Important Now There are numerous ways to practice self-care, but focusing your efforts on improving skin health pays off for your mental and emotional health, too. everydayhealth.com

Act Now for a Healthier Future!

By Kendra Zieman Personal trainer Fitness coach

The new year is a perfect time to set new health and fitness goals for yourself. This year, instead of just focusing on just weight loss like so many of us women do, try to focus on health and fitness as a whole. Exercise is an underrated act of self-care. There are so many benefits to exercising besides just weight loss. Exercise can improve your mood, reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep, lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes, help maintain healthy bones, improve muscle mass, and many more. Some of these benefits are instant benefits and great for your day to day life; we could all use a little extra pep in our step. There are also several benefits that your future self will thank you for. Imagine being able to keep your active lifestyle and independence longer as you age because of the exercise you do now. Most seniors require assistance due to poor health, inability to move around well, or simply can’t get up and down without a helping hand. Exercising now can help prevent that. Walking and strength/ resistance training are two of the best forms of exercise that you should incorporate into your daily routine. Along with exercise, proper nutrition is key to a long and healthy life. The foods you choose to eat directly affect how you feel. Another

22 | SimplyHers.net

form of self-care is to properly fuel your body with nutrient dense foods. If you’re eating high protein and nutritious foods like chicken breast with a side of vegetables or a salad, you will have more energy, clearer skin, feel lighter, less bloated, have fewer stomach issues, etc., compared to eating a heavy meal and deep-fried foods. Eating fast foods and junk foods are OK in moderation. Eating too much of these unhealthy foods will not only affect how you feel immediately after eating them but also plays a huge role in your health later on in life. Several health problems are related to the foods you eat and can be prevented with proper nutrition. The more you care for yourself, the better you can care for your loved ones. Typically as women, it’s easier to focus on the people closest to us instead of ourselves, but it is so important to remember that we need to be healthy so we are physically and mentally capable of caring for others. The next time you think of something you want to do for a little self-care, also think about the long-term effects of whatever you choose.

23 19

Ask the Doctor:

What Is Self-Care?

Doctors Explain Why It’s Important for Your Long-Term Health When you hear the words “self-care,” people tend to have different trains of thought. Your idea of self-care may include face masks or glasses of wine or maybe a good old-fashioned TV binge. But what does self-care really mean for your health? Turns out, self-care is a lot more than just giving yourself a break from the exhaustive activities of your day. It takes careful consideration to take into account what practices are actually benefiting you, your mental health, and your overall well-being. While self-care is free to be tailored differently for each individual person, it’s not entirely up to interpretation. So, what is self-care and what isn’t? And how can you start a self-care routine that will be advantageous for your long-term health? Worry not: we’ve consulted with several mental health experts to clarify all your preconceived notions of self-care and how to use your me-time in the best way that works for you.

What is self-care? Self-care is taking necessary steps to ensure the well-being of oneself, tending to any emotional or physical health needs to the best of your ability, says Haley Perlus, Ph.D., sports and performance psychologist. “Practicing self-care can help ensure you’re at the top of your health and wellness game, which involves taking time to do things that will help you improve both your mental and physical health.” Practicing mental health can help manage stress, lower your risk of illness, and increase energy levels. Even smaller acts of selfcare can have a significant impact on your overall well-being, says Perlus. Self-care is the process of ensuring that people have everything they need to maintain their health and thrive,

24 | SimplyHers.net

says Christopher Palmer, M.D., director of the Department of Postgraduate and Continuing Education at McLean Hospital and an assistant professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. “It’s not about being ‘selfish.’ Instead, it’s about being responsible and taking care of yourself,” he adds.

Why is self-care important for your wellbeing? When people fail to look out for their own health, their needs will often not be fully met. This can result in a decline in physical and/or mental health, explains Dr. Palmer. “People can begin to develop health conditions, such as excess weight, insulin resistance, burnout, or depression…. People need to be proactive in obtaining what they need for self-care and letting others know what they need from them when appropriate.” Self-care encourages you to focus on your physical and mental health needs, says Caroline Fenkel, D.S.W., L.C.S.W., chief clinical officer of Charlie Health. “Self-care is about being present with yourself, which can help prevent burnout, maintain balance, and keep you in tune with your needs.” She further explains that regularly engaging in self-care can ultimately help process stress and encourage routine, consistency, and healthy ways of coping with your emotions. Practicing a self-care routine has been proven to help eliminate anxiety, reduce stress, improve concentration, minimize frustration, increase happiness, and improve energy, says Perlus. “All of these things help enhance your overall quality of life.” prevention.com

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Life is the Berries

Trial Trail

By Laura Loveberry Elementary School Assembly Author/Speaker Inspirational Speaker Women’s Retreats/Conferences Caricature Artist

Flipping the vowel order changes the perspective on our “trials.” Our “trial” can transform to a “trail” by switching the letters “i” and “a” around. A trail path can twist and turn with hills and valleys, leading to a worthy destination. Trials can discourage and plop to depressive reactions. Trials can pivot to positive responses when applying my “trail” theory.

What’s your trouble God can flip to a treasure to minister to others?

Don’t waste the hurt. No pain—no gain. We develop character, empathy, and sensitivity on the rough journey. Our opportunities to minister expand when people trust us to speak into their lives because we walked a similar sidewalk.

A colleague was brutally raped. Horrific. She wrapped around the genuine love found in Jesus. Currently, she ministers to women on the speaking trail sharing the impact of Jesus to pull women out of the darkest pits.

Our hardships connect us to a hurting community.

A sister in Christ and her hubster experienced financial debt. They crawled out. They offer a financial peace type of class at church to encourage couples to be fiscally responsible and debt free. Their money anxieties developed an avenue of success for themselves and others.

I earned the privilege of encouraging women in adversity. As a barren woman, my hubster and I had 12 failed adoptions. Yes, a dozen birth moms changed their minds on us. We experienced rollercoaster years before we adopted our son and daughter. Now I minister as an inspirational speaker/author, sharing the life-lifting power of Jesus. Women tell me their hard stories. We pray and lift one another up. My testimony opened a trail of 25 years of ministry on overcoming with Jesus. Wonderful! “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish work so you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything,” (James 1:2-3 NIV). 30 | SimplyHers.net

My friend believed the lies, making a choice she so regrets. It devastated her. She found healing in Jesus. Now she ministers to women seeking the same mental restoration and freedom in Christ.

Got trials? Flip the vowels. Make it your trail.

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Lessons from a Longarm Quilter

By Diane K Clow Quilter and Sewist Picker And, hopefully, Good Friend

Hello. My name is Diane, and I am a longarm quilter. Now unless you make quilts, know someone who makes quilts, or own quilts, you may not know what that is. So, I am going to enlighten you. We are now deep into winter, bored by the freezing weather and bleak leafless trees. Bored by staying inside while Michigan throws its toughest season at us. So bored that you will even read about longarm quilting just for sheer distraction. But it’s a great conversation starter when you do eventually get to go outside and socialize again! So, let’s get started: people who make quilts primarily make the quilt top. That is the top layer of the “quilt sandwich.” They piece or applique their quilt top and then hand it off to their longarm quilter to add quilted texture to the “sandwich.” This “sandwich” is made up of the quilt top, the batting, and a backing fabric. Many people who make quilts may “quilt” their own sandwich on their domestic sewing machine or sew it by hand. More will hand off their completed quilt top to a longarm quilter so they can get back to the business of making another quilt top. People who make quilt tops typically have mass amounts of fabrics called “stashes.” Those of us who make quilts are basically fabric hoarders and buy massive quantities of fabric with no intention of ever making anything with it – we just want it in our stash. Anyway. A longarm quilter operates a large, industrial size (pay attention male readers, I am talking driving heavy equipment here) sewing machine that rides on a large table with rails. My

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machine has a 26” throat and rides on a 12’ table. By the way, my machine’s name is Millie, after my Aunt Mildred, and the table is Mable, named after her sister, my grandma Mable. The quilt backing fabric is loaded onto the canvas leaders, then a cotton or poly or wool batting is “sandwiched” before adding the quilt top. Millie rides across the three layers, quilting them together in a variety of patterns. Some machines are computerized with patterns, but I prefer to hand drive designs, as I like that form of creativity. In my career as a longarm quilter, I have completed over 800 beautiful customer quilts, each with its own special story. It is amazing to see the variety and creativity in fabric color and pattern choices. I continue to quilt for my established customers, but I am now focused on busting my own fabric stash and completing my own quilt projects. Plus, my kids don’t want to get stuck with bales of cotton quilting fabric. Go figure. One of my quilt-making friends has already included in her pre-funeral arrangements that her collection of completed quilts are to be handed out to all who attend her service, as her final “restin-peace” offering. I think she’s on to something here. So now you are armed with all the conversation ammunition you need if and when the topic of longarm quilting comes up! Keeping It in Stitches and you in the know.

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Author Reviews When you learn something surprising or astonishing you will sometimes say “What the heck!?” Well, when I was a younger lass I heard it said “What in the Sam Hell!?” Author Robert Dugoni’s latest novel, The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell is likewise something surprising and astonishing. Belonging to several book apps on Facebook (like The Sixties Plus Reading Room, Book Club Favorites, and Goodreads), Ibecame aware of this Dugoni story because of theoverwhelming raves it received. By Nancy Ryan Simply Hers Magazine

It is the story of Sam Hill, a misfit, born with red eyes. It’s a viscerally-inspiring tale of friendship, parental love, and faith. It traces Sam’s relationships throughout his life with his loving parents (especially his devout, religious mother) and his two misfit friends—Mickey, a girl with a troubled home life, and Ernie, a black kid, who faces the usual discrimination in a white school. It is a story of believing in God’s will and faith, as the three friends overcome the social castigation of misfits. A beautiful tale of their growth, with an uplifting ending. You will not forget this one. I teared up at the conclusion and highly recommend it as one of the best books I’ve read. I just finished Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano. Another favorite of mine! It’s the story of an Italian family living in Chicago. Dad, mom, four sisters. What a story. They all have their own to tell! Very poignant is our relationship with our siblings… Hard to put down. I have previously reviewed Napolitano’s Dear Edward. Equally good, but very different from this one! I must check out her other two novels, A Good Hard Look and Within Arm’s Reach. I’m excited! I discovered another new author, Emily Henry. People We Meet on Vacation is her story of best friends, Poppy and Alex. They meet their first week as freshmen in college and really are not impressed with each other. They are direct opposites in personality.

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When they are thrown together carpooling back home for summer break they discover they like each other. Subsequently, each summer they take a vacation together and over the years they secretly come to understand their love for each other, but are afraid to reveal such feelings as then everything may change. I then read my second Emily Henry book, Beach Read. I must say that the theme of this book seemed vaguely familiar to the first. It’s a light-hearted romance about two upcoming authors who have secretly had crushes on each other since college. Emily Henry has written a few other books and also some for young adult readers. Susan Wiggs’ recent book, Welcome to Beach Town, is a fast read. It is about heroine, Nikki, and her bravery in doing the right thing even when the odds are against her. Doing that right thing disrupted her future plans and sent her in a different direction for fifteen years. Without giving away the plot, read it and find out for yourself! My sister, Joanne, recommends Lost and Found by Marilyn Harris. It’s an epic novel beginning in 1930 in America’s dust bowl and culminates in l965. The story takes us through the lives of Martha Drusso and her adopted children Belle and R.C. We experience the drama that was life in America in the post-Depression years, WWII, the infamous Japanese internment camps, the Korean War, and the struggle for civil rights. I also read it, and really enjoyed it. Author Harris was best known for her fictional seven-novel “Eden” series, a historical saga about the Eden family of England. See you at the library!

Over The

A new year is as good a time as any to make new and exciting changes in a home. Change is good any time, but a new year is a new start and I had hoped 2024 would be the best year ever for a change in my home. As it turned out, this change would be new, but not exciting, and it would be enough to put me over the edge. By Willie Smith Simply Hers Magazine

We moved into our Florida home in 2017. We made some changes like updating the kitchen and painting the walls, but the rest would be done at another time once we recuperated financially. Almost seven years later we were finally getting to that update list which started with new flooring. Who knew it could be such a fiasco? I mean really, you take up the old, put down the new and voila!—you’re done, right? It sounded simple enough especially when the floor guy said his men would move the furniture; we just needed to get our breakables out of the way. Sounded easy enough, so we spent a couple of days putting all those breakables in our garage. Then, because we wanted to be out of the way of the flooring crew, we made a “lounge area” on our lanai so we could read, nap, or watch TV for the three to four days the crew would be here. My husband worked long and hard to create that perfect area. You see, he has his daily routine which includes his favorite TV series and, for emergencies, he has DVDs along with his trusty tablet for games. He set up the TV with the DVD player, put Alexa out there for weather reports, grabbed his tablet, and he even had a cooler with snacks and drinks; the man was ready.

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The crew showed up at 8:00 am and we left for breakfast at 8:03. We ate, then decided to catch a couple of rummage sales listed in the area. We got home about 10:30 and what did we find? Our “lounge area” had been disassembled. The washer, dryer, stove, one of the couches and various other items had been deposited in front of the TV. We couldn’t have watched anything if we tried unless we rearranged all that furniture of course. Oh boy! My husband was more than a little irritated. The only place to sit was in a plastic chair on the other side of the pool, right in the sun. It may be the off season here, but it’s still hot and the sun is brutal! My joy at finally having new flooring was about to hit the skids. I love my husband, but the older he gets, the crankier he gets. He’s very set in his ways and likes things the way he likes them with no changes or deviations. Have you ever heard of the mythical creature Typhon? He was regarded as the fiercest, deadliest, biggest monster ever, but, compared to my husband when he doesn’t get his way, Typhon is a pussycat. My world just became very cold and dark. It will be a long time before my husband recovers from this. It’s possible it may take all of 2024 for his recovery, which means it won’t be the best of years for me. I just might have to call on some friends to provide a place for me to stay temporarily until he recovers. I have to say this new flooring probably won’t be the death of me, but it’s definitely going to put me over the edge.

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Roadside Assistance ID Theft Aid And More! Court Appointed Special Advocate volunteers are needed now more than ever. For more information, please contact Heather Upton by calling (517)797-6020 or email casaofhillsdale@gmail.com. #changeachildsstory

Need a New Years Resolution?

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Becoming a CASA Volunteer is a rewarding & attainable resolution! Help Us Reach Every Child! Every child in foster care deserves to have a CASA volunteer to advocate for them. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we run completely off of grants and donations. We do not charge for our services. You can help us in this quest by providing critical financial support.

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JOIN US FOR BREAKFAST SATURDAY & SUNDAY! BREAKFAST 8:00 - 11:00 AM

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Happy New Year from Our Family to Yours!

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Care for Them Even After You’re Gone By Planning Ahead Now It can rock our world when someone we love passes away before we’re ready to comprehend what’s happening. We’ve all experienced moments like that. We take for granted how fragile life really is, but a sudden loss brings it home. That is why it can be so beneficial for your loved ones when funeral plans are arranged ahead of time. This gives those closest to you the room to grieve without the stress of planning and preparing. It also allows you the opportunity to create your own unique celebration of life with your family by your side and can help them feel connected to you in life and death. No matter what life throws your way, pre-planning will be a blessing to your dear ones.

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The late weeks of winter can really weigh on our spirits. It’s still cold and it’s probably been pretty gray. Here are tips for throwing two different parties that will give winter-weary folks a reason to celebrate and have a good time.

Mardi Gras This holiday can fall on any Tuesday between February 3 and March 9 so it’s perfectly timed to cheer up the “gray days.” This year, it’s February 13. The name is French and translates to “Fat Tuesday” because it was the last day to eat up foods such as butter and eggs that were traditionally forbidden during Lent. For a great Mardi Gras bash, think big, bold, and over the top! This holiday’s colors are purple (justice), green (faith), and gold (power). Use table runners, bunting, balloons, streamers, and definitely BEADS . . . whatever you can find. Highly-decorated masks are part of Mardi Gras, and you can provide them ready-made or get the supplies and let your guests make their own as part of the fun. Create a street sign labeled “Bourbon St.” for a great touch. Remember, too, that noisemakers and party hats aren’t just for New Year’s!

Party Tips written by: Melissa McCance

The food should reflect Creole and Cajun influences. French bread with assorted cheeses and mushrooms stuffed with Cajun-seasoned crabmeat or chopped shrimp followed by jambalaya, gumbo, and red beans and rice with smoked sausage fit the theme. Cocktails are a big part of Mardi Gras, including the famous Hurricane. Another option would be Cajun-seasoned Bloody Marys. For coffee, offer café-au-lait. And dessert must be a king cake! (King cake instructions and kits are available online.) Music? Make it New Orleans jazz. Those swinging notes will keep the energy level of your party up and your guests happy. If you want to have games, do an online search and you’ll find a variety from active to relaxed. So, gather some partying friends and laissez le bon temps rouler!

Spring Celebrate the end of winter and the coming of leafy trees, flowers, and warmer days with a spring party! Michigan is still pretty wintry at the March equinox, but there’s no reason why you can’t make it spring in your home, right? This party theme is perfect for an afternoon gathering of friends as the colors and style definitely lean towards the feminine. For a spring party, you want to focus on everything pretty. Pink, yellow, lavender, and soft greens accented with white are great colors for these events. Spring means flowers, so add some fresh flowers here and there and look for plates, tablecloths, and decorations that feature a floral motif. If you or someone you know does origami, fold lots of paper flowers in bright colors and use them as place cards or pile them in a glass bowl for a colorful centerpiece. The refreshments should also be pretty. Whether or not you’re including alcohol, think about things like lemonade (pink or regular) and grapefruit juice as ingredients. A splash of grenadine adds a pretty rosy hue to any beverage. Just look for recipes that are light and fresh— this is not the time for rich, heavy, or smoky drinks. A main dish salad that includes fruit fits in perfectly and pairs well with small, herbed rolls. Dessert ideas include a beautiful cake or cupcakes decorated with your party colors or a meringue-based dessert topped with fresh berries. Whatever you choose, make this party a celebration of the warmer, brighter days to come!

Business Spotlight

Lakeside Café

Bringing the Best to Manitou Beach By Melissa McCance

One of the advantages of small businesses—for the owners and the communities they serve—is the flexibility they enjoy. Independent business owners can tailor their enterprises around their personal goals and values along with the specific needs of their environs. Diann and Al Muck own the Lakeside Café in Manitou Beach which is run by Diann and their daughter Kelly Stickel. The two women are making their business more than simply a place to grab a bite. They’re creating an experience for their customers and acting as a business development resource for other entrepreneurs. The Mucks had retired to the Manitou Beach area and assumed ownership of the business at the end of May 2023. Diann’s background is in quality engineering and Kelly’s experience is in management consulting. Their different strengths weren’t specifically in food service but absolutely applied to running a small business. Because of that, they sought out providers of exceptionally high-quality food products to serve at the café. Bliss Bake Shop in Brooklyn provides items like cinnamon rolls, cookies, and quiche. DoughNation Bakery in Horton keeps them supplied with sourdough bagels and breads. They also carry coffee, candies, cheeses, and sausages from the wellknown Zingerman’s of Ann Arbor. Diann and Kelly don’t just use these products in their café— they also help the vendors who are small business owners professionally. “Each of them is a small business so we’re helping them organize their businesses while we’re taking the opportunity to sell really great products,” explains Kelly. Recognizing that there would be a significant difference in customer traffic during the non-summer months, they created a gift box business. People can order a variety of curated gift boxes that combine foods from their business partners along with specialty chocolates, jams and jellies, charcuterie items, and other goodies. Kelly said they’re also looking into bringing in other specialty retailers to expand the grocery section of the café. “We wanted to have this summer place, but we knew that 50 | SimplyHers.net

it needed to have more opportunity throughout the year, so we launched the gift box business. That’s been a really nice balance as we head into the holidays,” says Kelly. There are menu items at the café that are house made, such as a gluten-free chicken noodle soup, a white chicken chili, and a chicken salad sandwich served on a croissant that gained notice on MLive. Developing and perfecting in-house recipes takes time, and the two are making sure that any item that goes on the menu is up to standard. Both women are involved in the Manitou Beach community, working with other retail establishments to advance the development of an area that has seen a significant resurgence in recent years. They added to the village holiday celebration in December with classes in tart making, charcuterie and a gingerbread house class for children along with many other events during the month. When asked what she and her mother love most about having the café, Kelly replied that her parents have always been interested in promoting community and serving the youth wherever they are. For Kelly, there’s real satisfaction in building the business and helping other small businesses develop and grow. She summed up it this way: “I work at creating a seamless experience for our customers, and Mom makes it so you never want to leave.” Lakeside Café is located at 135 Devils Lake Hwy, Manitou Beach, MI 49253. They’re open from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. every day but Tuesday when they’re closed. You can reach them by phone at 517-252-5279. To keep up with the latest news, check the website (lakesidecafe.us.com) and follow them on Facebook at Lakeside Café.

Join Us for Tip Up February 3rd - 5th! Lakeside Cafe invites you to savor culinary delights like savory quiche, baked goods, sandwiches, and homemade soups. Indulge your sweet tooth with handcrafted cookies. Complement your experience with the rich flavors of Zingerman's exceptional coffee. Join us for an artistic, flavorful journey where community and delicious cuisine come together in a warm ambiance.

Breakfast Quiche, Salads, Soups + Sandwiches, Specialty Retail , Curated Gift Boxes, Catering, and Special Events. 135 DEVILS LAKE HWY, MANITOU BEACH, MI 49253

@LAKESIDECAFE_THEVILLAGE

517-252-5279

New Year, New Home? Give me a call today!

14 units sold

More units available now!

Starting at $329,000

Thank you so much for voting for me four years in a row! Hillsdale People's Choice Award Winner 2020, 2021, 2022 & 2023!

Christie Plemmons

Ready to make your move? Call Christie!

Broker/Owner/REALTOR · Residential · Investment Properties · Lake Properties · Hunting & Farmland · Over $17 million closed in 2022! · 2016 & 2018 Hillsdale County Realtor of the Year · 2019 Hillsdale County Board of Realtors Lifetime Achievement Award Winner · Specializing in all things real estate - residential, vacant land, lake property, investment & commercial · Exclusive Listing Broker for Hillsdale Commons Condos · Listen in monthly to “At Home with Christie Plemmons on WCSR 92.1FM

517-437-3333 christieplemmons@yahoo.com www.christieplemmonsrealty.com

81 W. Carleton Road, Hillsdale • Next door to Finish Line Restaurant

Over 8,000 sq. ft. of quality antiques from the Victorian era. Stamps, coins, lamps & parts, furniture, books, clocks, military, toys, glassware and more!

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Automotive & Light Truck Repair 166 S. Broad St. Hillsdale, MI 49242 Bryan T. Jeffrey Owner/Mechanic

New job, new retirement account options Changing jobs? Consider these 401(k) options: • Leave the money in your previous employer’s plan • Move it to your new employer’s plan • Roll it over to an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) • Cash out the account subject to early withdrawal penalties We can talk through your financial goals and find the option that works best for you. Don L Toffolo, AAMS™ Financial Advisor 253 E Chicago St Suite 1 Jonesville, MI 49250 517-849-7771 IRT-1948K-A

What is podcasting? Have you ever had someone tell you about a podcast they love and you nodded your head like you knew what they were talking about but you really didn’t? Here we have compiled information from castos.com to introduce you to podcast listening as we start our new “Podcast Picks” section! A podcast is a digital audio program consisting of a series of audio episodes that you can download or stream from the internet. It works very much like a radio show, but with one major difference – you can subscribe to a podcast and listen to it anytime you want.

What is a Podcast? A Simple Definition A podcast is an audio file that’s made available on the internet. Listeners can download the file to their devices or stream it through a listening app. Episodes are typically released as part of a series. Generally speaking, the audio of podcast episodes consists of the spoken words of a host (or multiple hosts), though many shows include music and sound effects to various degrees. Episodes (and the overall show) revolve around specific themes, like parenting, entrepreneurship, nutrition, etc.

How is a podcast different from a radio show or other forms of media? The main factor that makes a podcast different from a radio show or other media is how you access it. Podcasts are available to download or stream on the Internet. Also, unlike radio, podcasts are prerecorded and offer a wide range of formats. For example, •

•

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A typical episode can be as short or as long as its creator wants it. Some episodes offer just short snippets of information, while others offer long-form content that spans more than an hour per episode. Podcasts have different publishing frequencies too. Some shows offer new content daily. Others post new episodes on a weekly, biweekly, or even monthly schedule. As you’ll see shortly, they can also have a different format featuring anything from a solo show to a whole cast.

•

Finally, podcasts cover an extensive range of topics, including news, storytelling, comedy, education, true crime, technology, sports, and much more.

What are the Different Types of Podcasts?

How Do You Listen to Podcasts? Listening to podcasts is simple as long as you have access to the internet. Most podcasts are free. You just need to find a website, platform, or app that suits you.

When you ask someone, “What is a podcast?” they will usually offer different types of shows. If you think an audio-only format is limiting, think again! There are countless ways to organize a show’s content to make it compelling for your listeners. Choosing a clear format and staying consistent is key to building a reliable base of listeners. If your show features a serious solo monologue one week, a comedy panel the next, and a fictional story the week after, you’ll struggle to hold on to your listeners.

Listening to podcasts on a website

Here are the most popular podcast types:

If you want to listen to podcasts on your mobile device, your first step is to download a listening app. Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and Spotify are the most popular options, but there are lots of alternatives. (iPhone and iPad users should already have the Apple Podcasts app installed.) Once you have installed a podcast listening app to your mobile device, simply search the app for interesting podcasts. You can listen to any episode you like. If you enjoy the podcast and want to be notified about future episodes, use the subscribe button.

• • • • • • •

The interview podcast – This is one of the most common types of shows. A host (or hosts) interviews a new guest on each episode. Here’s an example of an interview-based podcast. Solo/monologue podcast – A simple narration from one person. It’s ideal for anyone who is an expert on a specific subject. Conversational/co-hosted – This is when two people (who have great chemistry together) have a conversation together. Panel podcast – This is similar to an interview podcast but with a larger group of people having an organic discussion. Nonfiction storytelling – These are episodes about reallife events, such as a series of murders, a chronicle of an expedition up Mount Everest, or a historical event. Fictional storytelling – These are fictional stories told across multiple episodes, similar to dramatic television. A single person narrates some. Other shows use teams of voice actors. Repurposed content – This is when you take existing content and translate it into audio form. For instance, a church podcast might record its weekly sermons and release them as podcast episodes.

Most podcasts have a website for their show. These websites usually have pages for each episode. Each page includes an audio player along with other assets like show notes and a transcription. Simply click play on the audio player to enjoy the episode.

Listening on your phone or tablet

Can you listen to podcasts offline? Absolutely! Most podcast apps allow you to download episodes in advance so that you can listen to them without an internet connection. That said, you have to remember to download an episode before you disconnect. Otherwise, it won’t be available to listen offline.

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Director of Veteran Affairs Renae Shircliff — r.shircliff@co.hillsdale.mi.us 33 McCollum St. Suite 108, Hillsdale • 517-437-3630

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Easy Ways to Create a Calm and Peaceful Home Feeling anxious? Here’s how to create a calming environment at home. As a place where you often escape after the stress of work or hectic woes of life, your home needs to evoke a serene atmosphere and help you recharge from the day. However, its ability to do so is often overlooked, leading to a space that can drain you if it’s not thoughtfully decorated. “Your home either nurtures and supports you or depletes your energy and leaves you exhausted,” says interior designer, founder, and CEO of Home and Harmony Lifestyle Christa O’Leary. “In today’s frenetic world, it is more important than ever to create a calm and peaceful space that allows you to recharge.” Creating a tranquil abode goes beyond your design aesthetic and objects within a space; it starts with simple, mindful practices that allow you to feel stressfree. No matter your lifestyle, here are 10 practical ways to transform your home into a balanced and peaceful retreat. Conquer the Clutter Whether you’re an avid follower of the KonMari method or a self-proclaimed maximalist, clutter produces physical and unconscious chaos. Oftentimes, unkempt piles and disorganization can lead to 20 minutes of searching for those pesky car keys and an overall feeling of distress. Take some time to tackle that messy closet or piles of old mail bogging you down. You’ll feel the tension immediately escape the room as you toss away those unneeded items. “Few things create mental unrest like clutter,” says Houston-based designer Marie Flanigan. “Spend time cleaning out unused items for donation and invest in appealing organizational tools like woven baskets, oversize clear jars, and drawer inserts.” Venture with Color The simple addition of a colorful wall or statement piece can transform the mood of any room. Silky white textiles offer a sense of elegance and serenity to a bedroom, whereas a daffodil shade of yellow may add just the right amount exuberance to a family’s living room. Choosing the right color scheme can be a challenge, so experiment with different shades and combinations to determine how they may impact the feeling of your space. 64 | SimplyHers.net

Embrace the Power of Plants When looking to recharge from a stressful week, people often flood to their nearest botanical garden or hiking trail to immerse themselves in nature. Why not bring the restorative qualities of emerald escapes indoors? Not only do they add a verdant pop to your design scheme but, according to a study done by NASA, plants eliminate toxins from indoor spaces, thus re-oxygenating your home. For those with a not-so-green thumb, try varieties such as parlor palms or snake plants that require little maintenance for maximum serene effects at a low lift. Don’t Overlook the Bedroom One of the most intimate areas of your home, the bedroom should invite you to escape from your busy schedule while still asserting a sense of sophistication. “You always want to walk into a bedroom and feel wowed,” says New York–based decorator Miles Redd. “But it also has to be a place where you can settle in and relax.” Whether you prefer neutrals or pretty pastels, incorporate colors that resonate with you and draw you in to the room. You may also want to pass on putting that television in and opt for calming weeping figs or aloe vera plants, which give off more oxygen at night. Think Through the Room’s Role By designating areas for various activities, you are subconsciously allowing yourself to move with ease and purpose within your home. When developing a design scheme for each room, try to decorate with the space’s function in mind. Strike a Balance The Chinese tradition of feng shui emphasizes the balance of opposing yet connected forces: yin and yang. The basic idea of the ancient practice embodies countless aspects and approaches within decorating as well. From creating complete symmetry within a dining room to playing with dark and light pieces, look for ways to find complete harmony within your space. Strokes of Natural Light Nothing brings clarity or highlights the intricate design details of a room like a stroke of natural light. A naturally lit room boosts productivity, improves mood, and creates an overall tranquil atmosphere more so than an artificially lit environment. For apartment dwellers with few to no windows, try incorporating reflective surfaces into the home. The amount of natural light will immediately double by allowing sunlight to reflect off strategically placed large mirrors or lacquered pieces.

Utilize Natural Textures It’s human instinct for people to appreciate and be attracted to the charming beauty of nature. While houseplants aren’t for everyone, textures and pieces made from natural materials exude the same amount of tranquility and ground the overall theme of a room. There are countless ways to foster a sense of inner calm through earthy pieces like original woodwork or adding a woven side table. Richmond-based decorator Sara Hillery tends to lean on softer materials that can help to make it feel more tranquil and cozy. “Covering hard floors with rugs and layering textures to create depth rather than layering contrasting colors and patterns all create a serene environment,” explains Hillery. Consider Using Aromatherapy Though a relatively small home accessory, candles have the ability to cast a warm, inviting glow and fill an entire room with a pleasant aroma. Scent memory is a powerful tool in helping people transport to dreamy getaways or happy places. Try finding a candle that reminds you of your favorite travel destinations or invest in a eucalyptus-scented one with soothing, spa-like qualities. Not into burning candles? Essential oil diffusers are a great alternative and allow you to make your own signature scent blend. Look for Movement Not to be overlooked, outdoor spaces play an essential role in the overall harmony of a home. Opulent, manicured boxwoods and lush beds of fragrant roses make for the perfect relaxing escape, just steps away from your own

door. To elevate any garden into a reflective sanctuary, try to integrate moments of movement throughout your lavish mazes. For example, the soft babble of a storied fountain lends a gentle yet elegant quality to any setting. The same idea goes for the interiors too. Look for natural ways to incorporate a sense of movement with your space. As Hillery points out, this can be as simple as opting for light and airy drapery, which tends to sway when the cool breeze comes through the windows. Creating Wellness Spaces In recent years, our homes transformed into not just a place of restoration but work as well. To help create a sense of separation between life and work, think about creating special spaces that allow you to escape for quiet moments and prioritize your mental health. This doesn’t mean you need to flip that spare bedroom into a variable spa or athome yoga studio. Take a note from designers like Mark D. Sikes and Palmer Weiss and transform a small corner within your home into a cozy nook with plenty of soft textiles in which to meditate or just relax. All Rooms Are Important Whether it’s a small powder room in need of a refresh or a less-than-cozy home library, it often feels easier to close the door on these rooms and deal with them another day. Unfortunately, even these little spaces weigh on your unconscious and zap your energy—they are essentially a task left undone. Create home unity by making each space in your dwelling an inspired one. veranda.com

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10 Outstanding Outdoor Ice-Skating Rinks in Michigan In the Great Lakes State, cold winter weather is ideal for the beloved and timeless seasonal activity of ice skating. Head to one of these popular outdoor ice rinks to test out your skills and enjoy the winter season. 1. Campus Martius Park – Detroit

For a unique experience in downtown Detroit, visit The Rink at Campus Martius Park. The skating season begins with the official lighting of the Christmas tree in November and extends through mid-March! After skating, warm up with a hot chocolate in the Cadillac Square Lounge and take a peek in the boutique shops throughout the area.

2. Greenfield Village – Dearborn

During the annual Holiday Nights, visitors can mingle around bonfires to the sounds of carolers and sleigh bells while they snack on warm food and drink, take an historical tour around the grounds, or lace up some skates and hit the ice.

3. Buhr Park Outdoor Ice Arena – Ann Arbor

Buhr Park Ice Arena is an Ann Arbor winter staple that offers fun for the whole family! Stop by for open skating, drop-in hockey, or rent the arena for a party. The rink is outside, but a covering and a cooled subfloor make this ice arena ideal even on slightly above freezing days.

4. University of Michigan-Flint Ice Rink – Flint

This rink is not only an on-campus attraction, but also a festive and family-fun atmosphere. It is free to the public on Wednesday evenings, and Saturday and Sunday afternoons.

5. Valley Court Park – East Lansing

The Valley Court ice rink is pops up for a few weeks in February as a community outreach activity. The rink is free to the public, but you need to bring your own skates. When you’re done skating, a Biggby is located across the street welcoming you to warm up with a yummy hot drink!

6. Rosa Parks Circle – Grand Rapids

Concerts are held here on summer evenings, but, in the winter, ice skating at Rosa Parks Circle is the perfect holiday outing. Every year this public space is filled with skaters of all ages eager to enjoy the beauty and charm of downtown Grand Rapids.

7. Muskegon Winter Sports Complex – Muskegon

Pretend you’re an Olympic athlete at the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex. With two acres of ice skating and an ice path through the woods, this complex has some of the best ice skating opportunities in West Michigan. The Winter Sports Complex is also outfitted with an ice luge, cross-country skiing paths, snowshoeing trails, and a sledding hill. Welcome to a true winter wonderland.

8. Petoskey Winter Sports Park – Petoskey Area

For over 80 years, the Petoskey Winter Sports Park has been the hot spot for winter family fun. With a skating rink the size of a football field, the Winter Sports Park has one of the largest rinks in Michigan. Featuring a ski hill, sledding, two ice rinks, and a warming building, the Petoskey Winter Sports Park is like a throwback to a Norman Rockwell painting.

9. Marquette Commons – Marquette

Bundle up and grab your skates for an afternoon of free family fun. Marquette can be extremely cold in the winter, but that doesn’t stop everyone from getting outside to have some fun. After spending plenty of time twirling on the ice, head to the warming hut for a break. Marquette Commons hosts ice skating Thursdays through Sunday from noon to 8 p.m.

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10. Moran Bay – St. Ignace It’s not every day that you get to skate on one of the Great Lakes! Skating on Moran Bay in Lake Huron is a true Pure Michigan experience. During the winter, little league hockey teams use the ice as a practice rink and the bay is free for the public to use. If you end up in St. Ignace during February, be sure to check out the Labatt Blue U.P. Pond Hockey Championships.

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PET TALK Do they love us back?

February is the month when love is in the air. Not only do we celebrate Cupid’s arrow, but February 20 is also National Love Your Pet Day! We already know how much we love our furbabies, but how do we know they love us back? A plethora of research has been done to try to answer this exact question and the results are in – our pets do love us back! While they may not show it in the same ways us humans do, our dogs and cats have their own unique ways of showing affection towards their human companions. Using brain scans, researchers have been able to link certain behaviors in cats and dogs to the times in which “feel good” and “bonding” hormones (like oxytocin) are released. This shows how these behaviors can be a physical display of the love they are feeling at the time. When these indicators of a positive emotional response are shown when they see or smell us, it is further evidence of the strong attachment bond our pets make with their human parents! Does My Cat Love Me? 4 Signs of Feline Affection Cats are known for being much more distant than their expressive canine companions, but anyone lucky enough to have a cat in the family knows they have their own ways of showing affection and love. Here are just a few ways that you can see that your cat loves you. 1. Your Cat Purrs And “Talks” To You Some cats can end up quite talkative, meowing and chatting with you as they go. But it’s not always a demand for more food – sometimes, it’s just a sign of their love and affection. Cats don’t usually meow at people they don’t have a connection with, so take it as a sign that your cat loves 76 | SimplyHers.net

you. And be sure to let your cat express its contentment by purring away as it sleeps on your lap! 2. Your Cat Head Bunts or Rubs Its Cheeks on You Is your cat bumping into you? This unique, gentle bump (referred to as “bunting”) is another great way your feline friend shows love. They may also rub their cheek against you. This is their way to mark you as a familiar, loved figure using feline facial pheromones. 3. Your Cat Brings You Gifts We’ve all gotten a strange gift from our cat. Dead mice, suspicious treats, toys, and birds, when left on a pillow or doorstep, can certainly alarm us. But this is a great gesture of affection from your cat! Your cat is bringing its prey and catch to take care of you – just hope it’s of the stuffed variety! 4. Your Cat Grooms or Kneads You Some cats will show their grooming routine as a sign of affection. Your cat may also knead on you with their front paws! Kneading behavior in cats likely comes from days as a nursing kitten when similar paw movements would help stimulate milk production from their mother. Affection comes easy when your cat is comfortable with you.

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Scientific Benefits of Meal Prepping

Sure, it saves you time and helps you stick to a healthy eating plan, but these other pros of meal prep may surprise you. Rows of identical multicolored meals packed neatly in glass containers on TikTok and Instagram may have made meal prep popular, but there’s more to this practice than meets the eye. Planning, prepping, and sometimes cooking several days’ worth of meals ahead of time has a number of proven advantages, from saving you time to helping you get a wider variety of nutrients in your diet. “I definitely think meal prepping helps us with just living well in general,” says Basheerah Enahora, RDN, owner of BE Nutrition in Charlotte, North Carolina. “When we put some thought into it, we’re more likely to pick up really nutrient-rich foods from the grocery store. We have a list that’s decided in advance.” And, when you eat at home, that means you’re not eating out — a practice that, research shows, can have negative health impacts if overindulged. For example, one study suggests that less than 0.1% of restaurant meals were of ideal quality, meaning they didn’t have a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, fish, lean poultry, and nuts, nor did they consistently limit sugary drinks, sweets, and processed meats. If you’re new to meal prepping, it’s important to create a plan that works for you. “People feel that a meal plan has to be this rigid structure, but it doesn’t necessarily have to be that,” says Enahora. You could prep and pack everything on Sundays, like some people do, but if that’s not your style, choose a day that works for you, or spread the prep work out however makes the most sense for your schedule. Flexibility is key. “It’s really about understanding how to put together a balanced meal and making sure you have those components on hand,” Enahora says. With some planning and perhaps a little preemptive chopping and marinating, you can easily call yourself a meal prepper and begin to see its benefits. And those benefits may be more far-reaching than you imagine. Listed below are some more science-backed ways that meal prepping has been shown to improve your health and overall lifestyle. • May Improve Diet Quality and Va• May Reduce Food Waste riety • Helps Eliminate Impulsive Food • Linked to Weight Loss and Obesity Choices and Dreaded “Hanger” Prevention • Could Play a Role in Improving Your • Tends to Save Money Emotional Wellness • Can Help Save Time (and Get You Organized) everydayhealth.com • May Help You Live Longer

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HILLSDALE CASA IS LOSING ITS PRIMARY FUNDING Due to State budget cuts, we are losing our primary source of funding, but there are many ways that you can help keep our program in the community!

Providing New Winter Clothing for Local Children in Need

HILLSDALE COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION is offering a donor match program! The foundation will match donations made through them, up to $10,000! Donations can be dropped off at the Foundation or mailed to them at P.O. Box 276 Hillsdale, MI 49242. Online gifts can be made at their website https://abouthccf.org/

KROGER COMMUNITY REWARDS Visit the Kroger website to link your plus card with Hillsdale CASA and a percentage of quarterly sales Action are donated directly back to Community Agency in Hillsdale us. County partners with Hillsdale County

Helping Hands Pregnancy Resource Center (HHPRC), formerly

Community Foundation, The Beth Ann AMAZON SMILE known as Alpha Omega Care Center is located at 46 South Howell We are a registered charity withis Amazon Blanchard Children’s Memorial Street, Hillsdale, MI. Our mission toFund, empower men and women Smile. Select ustoassponsor your charity of choice andand sexuality and Walmart the “Warm the to make life-affirming decisions about pregnancy athrough percentage of sales will be donated back Christ-centered compassion, resources, Children” campaign to buy new, warm and education. to us. clothing Established in 1987for under the nameCounty of “Alpha Omega Women’s winter Hillsdale Care Center”, we are the only Crisis Pregnancy Care Center in

children in need. QUALIFIED CHARITABLE DISTRIBUTIONS Hillsdale County. We are a non-profit agency; all our services Talk with your financial or and accountant are provided at no cost to advisor our clients are received through about Qualified Charitable Distributions How it works: Applications are businesses, takenfrom and churches generous donations from individuals, your IRA, the gifting appreciated assets, and throughout Hillsdale County.enrollment (during application donation of real property. period) and families and children are

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SERVICES INCLUDE:

served as donated become availDESIGNER PURSE funds BINGO able. Volunteers then go shopping with“baby bucks” Earn While You Bingo Learn (EWYL): Moms earn Designer Purse will be held September while learning through parenting classes. A wide array of topfamilies. Children must bebusinesses, 16 and under 25th and we are looking for ics span prenatal care through the toddler years, parenting and organizations, or individuals to sponsor at time of sign up. Families may particistep-parenting, life skills, as well as special circumstances such as purses. Please contact pate every other year.Heather Upton for adoption. “Baby Bucks” can be spent in our Blessing Store on new more info. 517-425-4145 or baby/toddler clothing as well as baby tubs, pack ‘n plays, new cribs casaofhillsdale@gmail.com 100% of all donations and mattresses, high chairs,are etc.used to pur-

Material Assistance: Help for parents who choose life. Once a month, parents can come in for diapers, wipes, formula, baby food, and clothing at no cost. Pregnancy Tests: No cost, lab-quality pregnancy tests are offered at Helping Hands. Ultrasounds: Coming soon! Fundraising is complete! We hope to offer this service at no cost in early Autumn, 2021 and provide an amazing opportunity to save babies and affirm life. Numbers: According to our 2019 records, we saw 419 clients. We provided 5,111 diapers and 4,267 items of clothing. Thirty-nine parents attended parenting classes, 303 clients came to our center for material assistance. Fifty-eight potential parents came in for no-cost pregnancy tests. Helping Hands volunteers logged in 1,846 hours.

chase clothingatfor the children! Find us warm on Facebook Vitally Important Parent (VIP): Dads are important, too! These Hillsdale CASA, Inc - Child Advocates

Name and Logo Change: “Alpha Omega” has special and significant meaning to many in the Hillsdale County community, so WHY did we change our name? We chose a name that clearly and simply represents our mission and services to those who need our help.

Hillsdale —in517-437-3346. earned and County: can be spent the Blessing Store, as well.

Visit Helping Hands at www.helpinghandsprc.org and follow them at facebook.com/hhprchillsdale

classes are just like EWYL, but are focused on the important

For more information contact CAA in role fathers play in the lives of their children. “Dad Dollars” are #changeachildsstory

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As we head into the New Year with resolutions and thoughts of improvement, let’s focus on improving the world around us. As of late, it seems the world could use more kindness and grace. Here are a few ideas of ways you can leave the world a better place regardless of the amount of money you may have: 1. SMILE – It makes you and the person receiving the smile feel happier instantly. 2. Donate your time at a local nonprofit organization – There is a lot of need around us and giving of our time costs us very little but the benefits experienced are priceless. 3. Speak through your actions – Hold yourself accountable and follow through on any commitments you make to others. 4. Invite people into your home – Welcoming people into our homes and showing them we see them is one of the best ways to make someone feel valued. 5. Random acts of kindness – LOVE THIS ONE! Here are a few examples of random acts of kindness you can perform throughout your day: *Send a handwritten note to someone *Tell someone that you appreciate them *Make a cup of coffee or tea for a friend or colleague *Give praise to the people around you *Smile to anyone you see *Make time for someone who is struggling

We hope you have a fantastic 2024 and remember to leave the world a better place than you found it!

HILLSDALE

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Tim Groves 517-398-1514 Sherri Groves 517-398-2996

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Simply Hers January/February 2024

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