Women's Edition Denver by Women's Edition Magazine

THE MAGAZINE FOR METROPOLITAN WOMEN

March 2017

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Editor’s Notes

Welcome to our 16th Anniversary Issue! What a fun journey this has been! When I look back to the first issue that we published, I realize that we’ve definitely come a long way! It can be terrifying to start a new business, but here we are, 16 years later, and I often think about how much fun I have had and continue to have. I’ve gotten to know so many wonderful people and learned about so many different businesses. Many of our advertisers have been with us for years, and I thank them for giving us the chance to help them and prove to them that print advertising works. I’d also like to thank my distribution staff and writers for the wonderful job they do each month. Our art director, Erin Lanza, also deserves tremendous thanks for the terrific job she does putting all our ads together monthly. I’ve always said that she is the best in the business, and I mean that with all my heart. You’ve heard the saying, “It takes a village to raise a child.” Well, this magazine is very much like my child, and without the teamwork of our terrific staff, we would never be able to put this magazine out each month. So, here’s a big, heartfelt “thank you!” to all our staff and advertisers! Get ready to spring your clocks forward on March 12th! I look forward to daylight savings time as soon as we set our clocks back in November. I love the longer daylight hours because they signify that spring is right around the corner—and I always get really excited when spring is in the air! It’s almost time to start the winter yard cleanup and start planning those flower beds and pots! Any day now, my daughter, Brittany, will be having our fourth grandchild. This is her first baby, and we are all so excited to find out if we have a new granddaughter or new grandson. As many of us know, by the time you get to your ninth month, you are so over being pregnant! You can’t sleep, you can’t get comfortable, you can’t even tie your own shoes. The nursery is complete, all the baby clothes have been washed and put away, and the only thing still missing is that little bundle of joy to hold in your arms. The waiting can be miserable for the mom-to-be, but everything will happen when the baby is ready. When your baby finally arrives, your life will never be the same (in a good way!). I know Brittany is going to “rock” this birth and she is going to “rock” motherhood! I’ll keep you posted! Until next month, happy spring!

Vicki Kahler, Editor

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On the Cover: Caroline Rose For more information, visit www.carolinerose.com

Positive Thought of the Month “Before you were conceived I wanted you. Before you were born I loved you. Before you were here an hour I would die for you. This is the miracle of Mother’s Love.” —Maureen Hawkins

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March 2017

Inside This Edition 2 Editor’s Notes

34 Healthy Living

6 Fashion Worthy

36 The Market Place

8 Business Style

38 Cuddly Critters

9 Zodiac Forecast

39 Auto Wise

This month will radiate blissfulness in the personal and professional aspects of your life. Love will also develop because of the planetary influences.

12 Weekend Gourmet 16 A Woman’s Work 18 Fresh Concept

40 Income Outcome 41 The Good Life 42 To Your Good Health Surgical weight loss, or bariatric surgery, is an option that some people with obesity can explore to help them lose weight that is threatening their health.

20 Interiors By Design

44 View From The Top

30 Good Looks

46 Home Works

Sensuality and intimacy are very important parts of life. Don’t let insecurity or awkwardness keep you from happiness and satisfaction.

32 Out and About

Last month, we talked about landscaping with hard features in the yard. This month, we’re going to focus on the softer elements of your yard.

48 Positive Perspective

33 Kids Comments

National Publisher Janet Van deWalle

Editor/Account Executive Vicki Kahler

Customer Service Coordinator Kristina Garner

Art & Editorial Director Erin Lanza

Copy Editor Liz Huett

Women’s Edition 4800 Wadswo r th , Ste. 301 • Wh eat Rid ge, CO 80033 • 303-468-5511 National Publisher: Women’s Edition, Inc. 888-892-4076 Women’s Edition® The Magazine For Metropolitan Women is a registered trademark of Women’s Edition, Inc. (Reg. No. 2,501,858). All rights reserved. Women’s Edition has no affiliation with any other publication. Women’s Edition makes every effort to provide accurate information in advertising and editorial content, however, does not make any claim as to the accuracy of information provided by advertisers or editorial contributors and accepts no responsibility or liability for inaccurate information. Women’s Edition is not responsible for the accuracy of the QR codes appearing in our magazine. © Copyright 2017, Women’s Edition, Inc. All rights reserved. This material is for personal use only. Republication and redissemination in whole or in part is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of Women’s Edition, Inc.

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Fashion Worthy

What’s Trending for Spring 2017 Easy, Wearable, Fun Fashion By Holly Bell

Every spring, designers flood us with their takes on new trends. (Every year, some of these new trends are suitable for the Midwest and some are definitely not!) Here are some of my favorite new or updated trends that should inspire some shopping. New khaki. This utilitarian fabric has been around for ages, and we have taken it for granted. This year, designers have figured out new and innovative ways to make this basic material stylish. Look for a shirt-dress; a long, softly gathered skirt; or a jacket that will be in your wardrobe for years. Innovative color. Think yellow is too bold a color for you to wear? Think again. For spring and summer 2017, there will be an option for everyone who wants to wear this optimistic color. Hollywood celebrities are definitely leading the storm on choosing yellow to stand out in a sea of black. With a vibrant green as the Pantone color of 2017, some exciting color choices will also include romantic, polished emeraldgreen along with the more casual vibe of olive tones. Sorbet shades will also be important as we go into summer. Fill up on tangerine and tart raspberry. Spring is looking very sweet, indeed. And guess what? Sorbet colors look fabulous with yellow! Interesting shoulders. Designers have been crazy about the cutout shoulder for a few seasons now, and I still love it. Showing the shoulder is genius—it’s sexy without being too revealing. This spring, a lot of one-shouldered detailing will be seen, along with some strategically placed shoulder cutouts and embellishments for maximum impact. As a nod to the 1980s (“Flashdance,” anyone?), you will be tempted by generously cut necklines on tops that just happen to fall off one shoulder. Fresh sleeves. Last year, it was all about the sweet, feminine, and still important flutter sleeve. This year, designers have added a new

NEW KHAKI

FLOWER POWER

SHINING ON

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INNOVATIVE COLOR dimension with the slit sleeve. Whether slit from the shoulder, creating a cape-like effect, or slit from the elbow, allowing the sleeve to float behind the arm, this sleeve treatment is undeniably a fresh silhouette. Fold-over waists. Remember the “paper bag” waistlines? To jog your memory, it was a waistline that gathered with some fabric left on top that created a ruffle. Cute, but not really for everyone. This year, there is a great new waist treatment to try: the fold-over waist. With this look, the fabric folds over at the waistline to create an effect that looks sort of like a smooth peplum or a wide belt. It is actually quite flattering and hides a tummy. Don’t be intimidated! Try it on. Oversized trench coats. A trench coat is a wardrobe essential for those of us living through unpredictable spring weather. You’ve probably had one for years…and it’s probably time to update it. The ankle-length, slouchy, big-buckled trench coat looks new this year. Of course, the favorite color will be the new khaki! Shining on. We all love to bring a little shine during the holidays, and it’s always a little sad to put away our sparkles after the holiday season is over. Not true this spring! Shimmery, shiny, glitter will keep us glowing for spring 2017. Flower power. Florals are a given as we move into spring, and every floral fabric has a different tale to tell. The floral story this season is whimsical, punchy, and fun. It also comes mixed with cartoonish shapes and, a bit surprisingly, fruit. Black backgrounds create an edge to the florals and tempt us to wear them even while the weather is still cold. Go ahead! Pair your floral print with some boots and an oversized cardigan, jean jacket, or leather jacket. Your look will brighten up the darkest of days. Nautical inspiration. Hey, sailor! Nautical-inspired looks always make me smile. Every year, designers figure out ways to make it look fresh again. From blue and white stripes to double-breasted blazers, nauticals look good on everyone and make me feel like going on vacation! Look for nauticals that are paired with some of the new trends, such as slit sleeves or fold-over waistlines. Athleisure. I was slow to get on board with this trend. Now that I am, I understand it fully. Every facet of sporting style has gone mainstream. From long jersey tops to track pants, athleisure is here to stay. To keep from looking sloppy, be sure that clothing in this style fits beautifully. Mixing it with non-sporty pieces will kick it up a notch. I hope you feel inspired to get out there and find some exciting new trends to update your look for 2017. Editor’s Note: Holly has been in the fashion industry for over 30 years as a buyer, boutique store owner, visual merchandiser, and fashion show producer. She is currently the owner of a modeling agency. Holly regularly appears on local TV doing fashion segments. WE More information at www.carolinerose.com March 2017

Business Style

Ament Headache Center Restoring Quality of Life to Migraine Sufferers

By Marsha Mallory-Bennett

A throbbing head pain, flashes of light and blind spots – these can be harbingers of your worst fear: yet another day lost to a migraine headache. If you suffer from migraines, Neurologist Michael Ament, founder of Cherry Creek’s Ament Headache Center, wants you to know that he really does feel your pain – he gets migraines himself. He opened the doors of the Ament Headache Center in 2012 to bring relief to fellow migraine headache sufferers everywhere. (Don’t be misled by the center’s locale in an upscale Denver shopping district; the patients at Ament Headache Center come from all walks of life. Migraine headaches do not discriminate.) Dr. Ament acknowledges the shortage of neurologists and considers other doctors to be colleagues, not competitors. “We’re glad they’re out there,” he says. “We need the help.” Ament Headache Center uses state-of-the-art electronic medical records but prefers an old-fashioned, hands-on approach to treating patients. Each patient is greeted with a smile. Many patients travel to Ament Headache Center because they’ve been unable to get prompt assistance or positive results elsewhere, notes Dr. Ament. Patient Michelle C. has suffered from migraines since she was seven years old. She has seen several neurologists but found little relief until visiting Dr. Ament three years ago. She is ecstatic to have found the treatment she needs at Ament Headache Center. “This is the best I’ve ever felt!” she raves. “They are amazing!” Dr. Ament attributes his success to an outstanding staff of professional assistants. He describes Janelle, Whitney, Sarah, and Hailee as competent, compassionate, happy individuals. His team starts each workday with 60 seconds of silent gratitude, which, Dr. Ament asserts, “creates an environment where healing can take place.” Initial consultations average 90 minutes. Before treatment options are considered, Dr. Ament listens intently to each patient to assess her current physical and emotional state and comfort level. Some patients desire a traditional approach, while others are more receptive to non-traditional options. Treatment options include pharmaceuticals, injections, surgeries, chiropractic services, acupuncture, hands-on-therapy, and herbal remedies. Dr. Ament acknowledges that there are many anecdotal reports that medical marijuana may be helpful in the treatment of migraines. Still, he is cautious about any broad statements of benefit (or lack of benefit). He notes that adequate scientific studies are not yet available for marijuana and headache. In addition, products are changing all the time, vary by dispensary, and the labeling is often imprecise. Dr. Ament feels all treatment

recommendations – including any recommendations for marijuana products – should Dr. Michael Ament, follow a thorough evaluation, exam, and be designed neurologist and founder of Cherry Creek’s Ament specifically for the individual. Headache Center Ament Headache Center ensures that each patient feels better and safer than she did when she came in. Patient Mark Z. was knocked unconscious and suffered a concussion and whiplash in a car accident. Mark visited multiple physicians to address his symptoms but got no relief. Finally, his injury team referred him to Dr. Ament. He was amazed at the high level of expertise and “personal touch” displayed by the team at Ament Headache Center. Through physical and massage therapies, Mark is on the road to recovery. During one session, Mark casually mentioned to Dr. Ament that his son had recently taken a puck to the neck in a hockey game. Even though ER results revealed no irregularities, Mark expressed concern that his son later went temporarily blind in one eye. Dr. Ament reconfigured his schedule to see Mark’s son the next day. Mark says he has seen numerous physicians but has never experienced the high level of expertise and compassion he and his son received from the team at Ament Headache Center. Dr. Ament initially spent 10 years as a management consultant. He changed paths and pursued medicine when his father was diagnosed with cancer. He took all of his prerequisites in one year, while simultaneously working in a neuroscience lab at NIH. Dr. Ament ultimately earned a medical degree from SUNY Buffalo, in New York, and decided to follow the career path of his mentor (and godfather), Roger Farber, M.D. who at the time headed the University of Pennsylvania Headache Center. In addition to his work at Ament Headache Center, Dr. Ament now travels the country, teaching on topics pertaining to neurology and headaches. He has also investigated clinical trials relating to headaches. If migraine headaches have compromised your quality of life, Dr. Ament wants to speak with you about how he can help you feel better. “After all,” he says, “life is not a dress rehearsal.” To schedule an initial consultation, call 303834-5677 or visit www.amentheadachecenter.com. Ament Headache Center is located at 255 Detroit Street, in Denver. WE

Zodiac Forecast

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PISCES

February 19–March 20

Happy birthday, Pisces! This month will radiate blissfulness in the personal and professional aspects of your life. Planet Venus is influential in enhancing your vitality and personal charm. Love will also develop because of the planetary influences. Embrace emotional strength, which guides you through domestic and psychological matters this month. You have strong independence, which leads you to succeed in business. Aries (Mar 21–Apr 19) Create your own reality and future this month. Designate any free time to mapping out your goals. Engage in humanitarian activities; this also is where the single Aries may find love. Taurus (Apr 20–May 20) House of career is powerful this month. You may notice much growth in your professional life. Remember to be patient when dealing with others. Gemini (May 21–June 20) Do not be afraid to take bold, independent actions this month! Your professional ambitions will dominate. The reward for hard work will be many achievements. Cancer (Jun 21–July 22) House of family will be joyful this month. Recent success in your career will bring forth many positive financial outcomes. Remember to take breaks to maintain your physical and spiritual well-being. Leo (July 23–Aug 22) There may be a change in your professional life, mainly to suit your career requirements. House of others is powerful; your social skills will be useful. Virgo (Aug 23–Sep 22) This is a month of change and transition

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for Virgo. Be ready to face any modifications that are necessary to achieve happiness in your life. Libra (Sep 23–Oct 22) Your social circle is going through a transition. You find yourself networking with people in the areas of leadership, fine arts, fashion, and spirituality. Scorpio (Oct 23–Nov 21) Social interaction is essential to accomplishing your goals. Collaborate with others! It is time to be ambitious in fulfilling your plans and commitments. Sagittarius (Nov 22–Dec 21) This may be the time to plan your professional objectives and prepare a strategy on how to achieve them. Make any necessary changes to follow through. Capricorn (Dec 22–Jan 19) House of family is dominant and full of bliss this month. The planetary position of Saturn could lead to some confusion in romantic relationships. Use patience to clear up misunderstandings. Aquarius (Jan 20–Feb 18) House of self is dominant this month. Your interests shift to passion and sensuality, and you seek out others for the intellectual aspects of life. WE

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Weekend Gourmet

Lions and Lambs and Feasts Galore! By Kate Beiting

Chicken Wings with Apricot Pepper Glaze For the wings: Place 2 pounds of prepared chicken wings on a lightly oiled baking pan. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Bake for 45 minutes at 400 degrees. For the glaze: Melt 2 Tablespoons of butter on low heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and one fourth of an onion, grated. Cook for 3–4 minutes. Add one-half cup of apricot jam, 2 Tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of paprika, one-fourth cup of water, and 1 seeded and chopped jalapeno. Simmer on low for 5 minutes. When the wings are done, put them in a large bowl and toss them with the apricot pepper glaze. Irish Soda Bread In a large bowl, mix 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 4 Tablespoons of sugar, one-half teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 Tablespoon of baking powder. In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup of buttermilk with one egg. Add it to the flour mix, along with one-half cup of soft butter. Mix well. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured counter and knead several times. (You can add one-half cup of raisins and 1 Tablespoon of caraway seed, if desired.) Form the dough into a round loaf. Brush with one-fourth cup of melted butter mixed with one-fourth cup of buttermilk. Cut a large cross on top of the

CHICKEN WINGS WITH APRICOT PEPPER GLAZE

loaf. Bake at 375 degrees for 45–50 minutes. Serving suggestion: Try it toasted with Irish butter and jam. Loose Meat Sandwiches—A Midwestern Tradition Put 2 pounds of ground chuck into a stock pot or large skillet, along with 1 finely chopped white onion. Start cooking and crumbling. Add 1 Tablespoon of salt, 1–2 Tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, 1 Tablespoon of creamed horseradish, 1 Tablespoon of dry mustard (or a good squirt of yellow), several good dashes of pepper, one-half cup of ketchup , and 1 cup of water. Add a few dashes of Accent seasoning, if you have some

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on hand. Stir well and continue crumbling. Simmer for 20–25 minutes. Serve on hamburger buns, with slices of dill pickle, sliced cheese, and chopped onions. Loose meat can be kept warm in a slow cooker until ready to serve, if desired. Serves 12. Scalloped Cheese Potatoes Melt 3 Tablespoons of butter in a saucepan. Add 3 Tablespoons of flour and cook for 1 minute. Add 2 cups of milk and cook for 4–5 minutes, until thick. Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and remove pan from heat. Parboil 4 peeled potatoes for 10 minutes. Cool and slice the potatoes. Place the sliced potatoes in a greased casserole dish and pour the milk mixture on top. Add salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle with another one-half cup of cheese. Bake at 350 degrees for 40 minutes. Easy Sauerkraut Bread Mix the package of yeast and flour from a box of hot roll mix. Add 1 teaspoon of caraway seed and blend well. Stir in 1 cup of drained sauerkraut, 1 cup of hot water, 2 Tablespoons of soft butter, and 1 egg. Mix for 2–3 minutes. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured counter and knead for 4–5 minutes. Let rest for 5 minutes, then place dough in a greased loaf pan. Cover and let rise for 30 minutes. Brush the loaf with egg wash. Bake at 375 degrees for 35–45 minutes, until golden brown. Remove from pan and cool on rack. Great for Reuben sandwiches or with a corned beef dinner. Old-Fashioned Corned Beef and Cabbage Dinner Remove the corned beef from the package (flat cut is less fatty) and place in a large stockpot. Fill the pot with water (about

2 quarts). Add a cup of beer or apple juice if you want. Turn on high and bring to a boil. Turn the heat down to simmer, add 1 chopped onion, and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 3 hours. Add 6 scrubbed red potatoes. Cut a head of cabbage into eight pieces and put them on top of the corned beef. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes. Serve with rye bread and mustard-horseradish. Use the leftovers to make Reuben sandwiches the next day! Barbecued Ham Sandwiches (Note: You can use 2–3 cups of prepared barbecue sauce instead of making your own.) Lightly grease a slow cooker. Put 2 pounds of sliced deli or cooked ham into the cooker. Stir together 1 cup of water, 1 cup of barbecue sauce or chili sauce, one-fourth cup of ketchup, one-fourth cup of brown sugar, one-fourth cup of Worcestershire sauce, 2 Tablespoons of white vinegar, and 2 teaspoons of prepared mustard. Pour the sauce over the ham. Cook on low for 4–5 hours. Serves 10–12. Baked Fish Peel 4 potatoes. Boil for 10 minutes, then cool and slice. Place the slices in the bottom of a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Slice one fourth of an onion and put the slices on top of the potatoes. Pour one-half cup of milk over the top. Season four pieces of white fish (cod, pike, or halibut) with a blend of one-fourth cup of flour, salt and pepper as desired, one-fourth teaspoon of onion powder, one-fourth teaspoon of garlic powder, and a dash of cayenne. Place the fish into the baking dish. Sprinkle 2 Tablespoons of grated Parmesan over the fish and pour another one-half cup of milk on top. Cover and bake for 30 minutes, or until fish flakes. Serves 4. WE

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A Woman’s Work

About Those New Year’s Resolutions The Aftermath By Sharon Knierim

A couple of months have passed since many of us pledged to do better in our endeavors, to be better people, or to exercise more control over our physical and mental beings. We may now be suffering the consequences of not following through as well as we had planned. Meanwhile, others seem to be enjoying the sweetness of success. When we make resolutions, we have to be careful not to overextend our good intentions. The cessation of smoking tobacco and overeating are two very common resolutions for the New Year. If you have smoked in the past or do so now, you likely know how hard it is to stop. Some people try to eliminate this habit slowly, while others rely on substitutes such as chewing gum or medical patches. Hypnosis is also sometimes attempted. For some smokers who have QUIT, stopping cold turkey seems to be the best bet. It seems that the resolve itself is more important than the method. If you’re trying to quit smoking, good luck to you. If you’re supporting someone in her effort to become a former smoker, offer encouragement but don’t overdo it. Remember, smoking is addictive (just like eating potato chips), and the smoker is actually trying to escape the use of tobacco while reprogramming her personal life. Whatever you do, don’t nag a smoker who is trying to break the habit. If you nag, guess what? That struggling

soon-to-be ex-smoker will just light up again because of the extra pressure. Don’t be preachy! The health benefits of quitting smoking are undeniable. However, when you kick a bad habit, you have to take care not to replace it with a different bad habit (like trading smoking for overeating). With the dropping of a bad habit, new habits and interests can emerge. Many ex-smokers find extra time on their hands, which can be a good thing or a bad thing. This transition is a time for really important decisions. Many ex-smokers turn to crafts or exercise and have greatly benefited. Some turn to increased internet browsing, with less beneficial results. If helpful, offer the ex-smoker constructive ideas. Was a diet on your list of resolutions this year? Again, this requires not only a change of habit but a change of mind-set. Why do so many of us end up overweight? It’s true that heredity

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and things like gland problems can help tip the scales, and aging is no friend to controlling weight (or weight distribution). But why do many of us overeat in the first place? Some people eat when they’re upset, or when they’re bored. Some people have trouble deciding when they’re full. Some people just can’t resist the pull of delicious morsels. After all, who ever woke up at midnight to snack on celery and carrots? That’s right—nobody. We’re looking for those chocolate chip cookies on the third shelf of the right-hand cupboard, just behind the big round box of oatmeal. Understanding food and the food industry is important when you’re trying to lose weight. Fast food allows us to dine out for weeks without ever thinking of the pots and pans in our kitchens, so it’s easy to pack on the pounds. But beware, home cooks! Just because a meal was prepared at home, it is not necessarily good for you. You may find yourself reading labels in the supermarket, attempting to understand calories, carbs, fats, and sodium. There is plenty of confusion over what is a good carb and what is a bad carb. Do you know the difference between saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fats? Coupled with eating more than we should, understanding the food pyramid and all these technical terms is enough to make us give up. Not so fast! Seriously losing weight requires determination and willpower. Everyone has habits they would like to break. That’s because we’re human and we have foibles. If you are attempting to change or break a habit, make sure you plan what to do in the aftermath of your success. Ask yourself what you want to achieve. Make plans for the new you. Investigate compelling and interesting ideas, and follow through on those plans. In fact, looking forward to new interests may “take the heat off” of worrying about losing pounds or curtailing smoking. Someone recently told me that when he quit smoking, his senses of smell and taste returned, and he promptly started overeating. One overeater who had trimmed down began smoking to fill his snack time. If this is the aftermath you’re facing, don’t beat yourself up. You’ve changed one bad habit—you can change another. At the beginning of the year, you made the decision to change for a reason. Only you can do it. Do it for yourself and those who love you. You can do it. I know you can. WE

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March 2017

Fresh Concept

The Comforts of Custom Homes Make Your Home Uniquely Yours By Karen Collins

When you hear the word “home,” does your mind wander off to a place in your dreams? If you simply can’t find an existing home or home plan that satisfies your needs and wishes, custom home building may be the answer. The term “custom home” may sound extravagant—and it can be—but “custom” has more than one definition when applied to construction. For example, a custom home may be built with what is known as “universal design,” to make it suitable for multi-generational households. This might include wider doorways, an absence of stairs, or state-of-the-art monitoring systems specifically for disabled homeowners or elderly homeowners who plan to age in place. A young family may choose to build a home to their specifications based on the phases their family will go through over the next 20 years. Executives who frequently entertain in their homes would have completely different criteria. Even tiny homes are being custom-built these days. More than anything, a custom home is personal. The build time for a custom home is longer, and the process requires the homebuyer to be more interactive throughout every step, but there are advantages. Your custom-built home will be unique and will reflect your family’s taste and lifestyle. You will not be limited to a prepared menu when it comes to choosing architectural style or finishes such as tile, flooring, window coverings, or exterior cladding and roofing. You can also incorporate energy-efficient and green solutions for insulation, heating, air conditioning, and landscaping as you see fit. If special needs are a consideration, or even special hobbies and activities such as music or yoga, the home you plan can include specific space and design features. Priorities in any undertaking are time and money. It may be wise to first consider financing options. Buyers who already own the land on which the home will be built are obviously one step closer to beginning their search for the most suitable lender. If not, there is more than one option. If your bank offers construction loans for the type of construction you are considering, an in-depth consultation with a bank representative is valuable in getting the process started. It is possible to obtain one loan to purchase the lot or acreage on which the home will be built and a separate loan for the actual construction, but not all lenders offer this type of loan. A more common type of loan is a construction-to-permanent loan (also called a C2P loan), which allows buyers to qualify for a single loan that funds construction and, upon completion of construction, becomes the permanent loan for the home. In addition to your own excellent credit, banks usually require credit and background information on your builder. Another option is to obtain builder’s financing through a builder who has a mortgage subsidiary or is affiliated with a specific mortgage company. The builder may include incentives with the financing package, such as discounts for upgrades or add-on services like settlement

services and title insurance. Carefully research all of your options to determine the best choice. You are in control of the final decision but also are ultimately responsible for understanding the obligations you accept. Existing building plans that closely match the home you want can be modified to your specifications, or you may prefer to consult with an architect who will draw plans based entirely on your vision of the home. The architect may be hired separately from the builder, or you may find a design-build company that handles both the design of the project and the construction. A vital part of the custom home-building process is finding the right builder and affiliated professionals for the project. Several factors will affect this choice. Basic questions for vetting an architect or builder include queries into their years of experience with similar projects, references, educational background, and proof of required insurance, permits, and licenses. It is also important to see examples of their finished work. Ask about the type of warranty that is provided, what it covers, how long it lasts and, of course, cost considerations for the project. Once the builder has an understanding of the type and size of home you want, you should be able to receive an estimated timeline for completion of the build. It is not uncommon to experience changes along the way that cause delays, but having a general idea of the time required will help everyone involved. Building from a builder’s existing plans will be a shorter timeline than a custom home from an architect’s original drawing, but many people feel it is worth the wait to get exactly the home they envision. According to the National Association of Home Builders, 22 percent of American home construction starts in 2015 were custom-built homes. New high-tech features are constantly being added to enhance safety and convenience for homeowners. Technology can connect home systems, allowing the homeowner to access and control them from a single

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location in the home or remotely from a phone or other device. Security systems include indoor camera and motion sensors, door and window sensors, and doorbell sensors. Some systems can be connected so that local emergency services are contacted in the case of a break-in, even when the system is monitored from out of town. Lighting, heating, cooling, and smoke and carbon monoxide detection systems can be incorporated into a network that is remotely controlled. Home air quality, humidity, and temperature can be monitored, reported, and adjusted via phone or device. Appliances are becoming more connected, which enables alerts for such things as ovens and stoves that are accidentally left on when the homeowner is away. They can then be turned off immediately from anywhere. Dishwashers, vacuum systems, lights, and window shades can be activated remotely. Water heaters can self-adjust temperature settings and can respond to smoke or carbon monoxide alerts by shutting themselves off. Outdoor areas have not been forgotten, either. Systems can integrate outdoor lighting, pool functionality, and water features to save the homeowner time and increase energy efficiency. The U.S. Department of Energy site (energy.gov) provides helpful information on â&#x20AC;&#x153;ultra-efficient home design,â&#x20AC;? which incorporates elements of energy efficiency into each system and component of the home. A major player in the area of energy efficiency is a homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heating and cooling system. Your choice will be based on several factors, including your own sense of aesthetics, zoning laws for your area, environmental considerations, and budget. Solar energy uses semiconductors in solar cells to collect and convert sunlight to energy, thus lowering energy bills. Incorporating the panels into an original home design can result in a more pleasing aesthetic. Depending upon the location of the home, there may be

advantages to a design that combines passive and active solar energy. Geothermal energy is showing up in home design in the form of heat pump systems. The ground 10 feet below the frost line maintains a temperature of 54 degrees. In a heat pump setup, a system of tubing is installed in the ground. It circulates a water solution through the heat pump to generate warm air (or, in the summer, cool air for air conditioning), which, in turn, circulates through your heating/ cooling system to maintain a comfortable temperature. The fact that the geothermal heat pump system works less to produce this result creates savings in energy bills. Federal tax credits may be available for installing certain types of energy-efficient heating systems. Consult with your tax preparer or attorney to learn specifics. If making so many decisions seems daunting, be assured that help is available. Whether working with a design-build company or an architect to draw up initial plans, a reputable professional can interpret your ideas and provide visual images and models that test those ideas before spending money building them. This is equally important when dealing with the interior design and landscaping aspects of a custom home. Interior designers and landscape architects have experience putting these areas together, and they also often have access to some items that the general public may not be able to buy. Always check references. Speak with former clients to get feedback on their experiences with the professionals you are considering for your project. The extra effort involved in planning and building a custom home can prove exciting and rewarding. Choosing a team of professionals who share your vision for the finished product can make all the difference. Sources for this article included: www.nahb.org, energy.gov, www. consumer.ftc.gov, and eyeonhousing.org. WE

March 2017

Interiors by Design

Smart Moves Sell Your Home Quickly with a Savvy Game Plan

By Robyn V. Powell

Whether you’re moving across town or around the globe, selling your home can be very stressful. Keeping your home show-ready and vacating on short notice week after week can be challenging enough. Add kids and pets to the equation, and stress levels can go into overdrive! The best strategy to sell your home quickly, and net the best price, is to arm yourself with a smart go-to-market plan that ensures your home is properly marketed, shows well, and is priced correctly. When the time comes to put your home on the market, it will be ready to outshine the competition, and you’ll have an offer in no time. Your home may need a little TLC before you sell it. Keep in mind that not all home improvements are created equal; bank on the ones that will reward you the most. When deciding which improvements to make, think up-keep rather than up-grade. Priority one is ensuring that your home is structurally sound and that all systems—plumbing, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning—are in good working order. Roof, siding, and foundations should be checked for leaks. A poorly maintained home raises red flags for buyers—they won’t care how beautiful the kitchen is if there’s a puddle of water standing on the basement floor. The added costs of repairs can cause buyers to shy away, even from an otherwise appealing home. Proactively making repairs eliminates having problems discovered during a formal inspection, which can delay or even derail a sale.

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According to the 2015 Remodeling Impact Report, available on the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) website, replacing a roof had the highest return on investment (ROI)—a whopping 105 percent. You’re unlikely to make your money back if you’re renovating just to sell, so think twice before doing a costly kitchen or bathroom remodel. For the best short-term payback, cosmetic changes make the most sense. New sinks, faucets, hardware, and energy-efficient stainless appliances are upgrades that add value without breaking the bank. A coat of fresh paint, in a light neutral tone, is a cost-effective way to breathe new life into a dim space. New light fixtures can brighten and update your home. Don’t forget to look down! Replacing worn or stained carpet is a relatively low-cost improvement that can go a long way toward making your home more appealing. Hardwood floors are a highly valued feature by today’s buyers. If you are lucky enough to have existing hardwood floors under installed carpets, pull up the old rugs and let your wood floors shine. ›››

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According to the NARI report, refinishing hardwood is the one interior upgrade with a 100 percent ROI. Adding new hardwood is a close second, with a 91 percent ROI. People like to visualize themselves living in a new home, so de-clutter and de-personalize as much as possible. Put away personal photographs and collectibles. Consider hiring a stager. Stagers view your home from a buyer’s perspective and are experts at making small changes that can have a big impact. By removing, rearranging, and sometimes adding items, stagers can help show your home in its best possible light. Look for a realtor with a track record of successful sales in your neighborhood who will promote your home through all sales channels, including online and social media. Most buyers start their search online and decide which homes they want to see based upon photos. Interview several realtors, and have a checklist prepared. Do they hire a professional photographer? How they will assess your home’s value? It’s tempting to go with a realtor who suggests the highest price, but here’s a word of caution! Today’s access to public information via the internet enables buyers to quickly assess a home’s fair market value. Pricing your home correctly is a critical decision. An overpriced home will linger on the market and undergo price reductions, which may lead you to settle for less than you would have if the house had been priced correctly in the first place. Curb appeal is everything! You only get one chance to make a first impression. Buyers often drive by a listing before deciding to book a showing. If your home doesn’t appeal to a buyer from the street, you’ll never get them through the front door. Make your home inviting. Paint your front door, trim shrubs, freshen mulch, and add a splash of color with seasonal flowers. Experts agree that a home listing will get the most attention during its first 30 days on the market. After the initial flurry of activity, a home listing becomes stale, traffic slows, and a property can languish on the market for months— often resulting in a price reduction. To avoid this pitfall, get your home ready for market before you list, and sell your home in no time! Sources for this article included: www. consumerreports.org, www.nari.org, and www.realtormag.realtor.org. WE

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Good Looks

Reclaim Your Excitement Vaginal Rejuvenation for Enhanced Intimacy By Monica L. Davis

Although we might not talk about it much, many women in the middle and later stages of life experience a decrease in sensation and satisfaction during intimacy. Some of us would call the experience downright painful! There are many reasons for this, including the hormonal changes that accompany aging, the physical changes caused by childbirth, or a significant weight loss. If you have noticed these changes in yourself and are no longer satisfied with your intimate experience, don’t despair. Many treatments can help you regain your spark. Childbirth, aging, and significant weight loss may cause the muscles of the vaginal area to become stretched out, resulting in less sensitivity during intimacy. As we age, our tissues naturally become less elastic, so it’s harder for them to bounce back. Procedures such as vaginal reconstruction or vaginal rejuvenation can tighten the vaginal muscles. Vaginal procedures can also alter the physical appearance of the genitals, should you so desire. Vaginoplasty uses a laser as a scalpel to remove excess vaginal tissue and tighten the muscles. The procedure may take up to two hours. Recovery may be as long as several weeks of healing before intimacy can be re-introduced. By week six, the stitches are typically dissolved. Following a postoperative visit with your surgeon, you will be cleared for normal sexual activity. Many women seek vaginal reconstruction to address issues inside the vagina. Some women are also concerned with the external

portion of their genitals. Surgical procedures can address this, as well. For example, if you feel that your labia are too large and are getting in the way of enjoying intimacy, you might consider a labiaplasty. This procedure removes extra tissue to change the size or shape of the labia. Typically, this short outpatient procedure can be performed under general anesthesia, with a relatively short recovery time. Doing your research is essential! Find a surgeon who is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and has vast experience in vaginal reconstruction. You might also want a board-certified gynecologist who has additional training in urogynecology. Results from vaginal reconstruction typically will last a lifetime. If you want some vaginal rejuvenation but are shying away from surgery, you might consider vaginal rejuvenation with the Juliet laser treatment. This procedure uses a laser to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin in the body. The Juliet treatment reverses the

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signs of aging and childbirth and may also treat stress urinary incontinence and vaginal dryness. Although some women commonly need two or three treatments, the Juliet procedure only takes 15 minutes—with no recovery or downtime! ThermiVa is another non-invasive treatment for vaginal rejuvenation. The technique uses a handheld probe to deliver controlled thermal energy. The heat contracts the tissues and encourages collagen production, which assists with tissue and nerve healing. The results are a rejuvenated vaginal area, less vaginal dryness, less urinary issues, and enhanced intimacy. The ThermiVa procedure is conducted in three separate treatments over the course of a few months. Most patients find the treatment comfortable—some patients have even reported falling asleep during the procedure. Because the procedure requires no incisions, there is no recovery time. Patients can resume normal activities, including intimacy, immediately after each treatment. Optimal results typically develop a few months following the treatment, and most patients require a maintenance session only twice per year. If you are a woman battling decreased sexual desire, you may have noticed that there are not a lot of products on the market targeted toward women’s intimate needs. The O-shot (yes, that’s “O” for “orgasm”) is designed specifically for women. The O-shot is a non-surgical procedure that stimulates a woman’s intimate desire. This procedure extracts platelets from the patient’s own blood. The platelets are then placed in a syringe and injected just inside the vaginal area, near the clitoris. (An anesthetic cream is applied to the area prior to the injection.) The platelets act as a stimulant to grow new cells, making the vaginal area more sensitive to touch. The overall effects of the O-shot typically last a minimum of 18 months. Check with your insurance company to see what may be covered for these procedures. If you are experiencing symptoms such as a reduced desire for intimacy, pain during intimacy, or urinary incontinence with otherwise good health, you are most likely a good candidate for vaginal rejuvenation. Sensuality and intimacy are very important parts of life. Don’t let insecurity or awkwardness keep you from happiness and satisfaction. Sources for this article included: www. livestrong.com, www.webmd.com, www. smartbeautyguide.com, www.vwhcare.com, and americanhealthandbeauty.com. WE

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March 2017

Out and About

Aguirre Specialty Care Attending to Your Most Intimate Self By Heather Pastorius

As women, we go to great lengths to feel good about our minds and bodies. Sometimes, though, the parts of us that need special attention require delicate conversations. At Aguirre Specialty Care, Dr. Oscar Aguirre and his staff have spent the last 20 years practicing this delicate art and addressing a multitude of urogynecological concerns. What exactly are we talking about? The female reproductive anatomy undergoes changes due to natural processes such as pregnancy, vaginal birth, and aging. Many of these changes are not visible to the naked eye, but, as a woman intimately acquainted with her own body, you might notice that some things just aren’t like they used to be. To put a finer point on it, you may be experiencing some form of prolapse. Prolapse is a condition in which structures such as the uterus, rectum, bladder, urethra, small bowel, or vagina may begin to fall out of their normal positions. If their supports weaken enough, these structures may eventually begin to sag outside the body, through the vaginal or rectal openings. This can obviously cause a great deal of discomfort and disrupt your bodily functions. Dr. Aguirre and his team wish to return you to the happiest, healthiest, and most functional version of your womanly self, and they have the tools to do so. Dr. Aguirre stresses that both surgical and nonsurgical treatment options are available. “When I’m evaluating a patient for prolapse or relaxation, we talk about all the treatment options,” he says. “I let her choose what treatment option she wants. It really depends on how much it bothers her, how symptomatic she is.” Changes less dramatic than organ prolapse may still lead to a variety of undesirable symptoms, including loss of bladder control, vaginal dryness, vaginal looseness, or a loss of sensation during intercourse. Current advances in technology offer new non-surgical, discreet procedures, including the laser treatment FemiLift™. Dr. Aguirre notes that he was the first urogynecologist in the nation to offer FemiLift™. Dr. Aguirre began using FemiLift™ in November of 2013, to treat the symptom of vaginal looseness. Many of his patients were also experiencing leakage and dryness, and he was pleasantly surprised to discover that the laser helped with all three of these symptoms. He also offers a treatment called the O-Shot®, which consists of platelet-rich plasma derived from the patient’s own blood and then injected into specified areas of the vagina to return sensation during intercourse and improve orgasm. And if you want to address form, not function, you should know that Dr.

Aguirre is also practiced at cosmetic rejuvenation surgery. “Dr. Aguirre is a true artist and perfectionist,” says patient V.W., of Boulder. “He is a gift to all embarking on their journey to a better self. My physical difference is astonishing. The regained sense of self-esteem and sexual enjoyment is something I had given up on. I am grateful to have been directed to his care. He has changed my life. He customizes procedures to your needs and truly understands how to help women improve their intimacy issues for a happier, healthier you.” If you have concerns that would be best treated by surgery, Dr. Aguirre uses diagrams and drawings to explain the problems you’re experiencing and the procedures that can be used to correct those concerns. A pelvic exam determines each patient’s unique set of circumstances. D.S. is a former surgical patient of Dr. Aguirre’s, and she is delighted to have regained her confidence after surgery. “I was referred to Aguirre Specialty Care from a gynecologist after they performed a tumor removal on my right labium,” D. S. explains. “When I consulted with Dr. Aguirre, he explained to me in detail about what he would be doing during surgery, drew pictures, and introduced me to some of his staff. I was surprised that everyone was so welcoming and helpful. I was so confident in his work that I didn’t look for another doctor, and I got my surgery done by Dr. Aguirre. He did such a good job! He gave me my confidence back!” If your urogynecological symptoms are stopping you from enjoying intimacy, there is hope for renewal. At Aguirre Specialty Care, this has been their concern and expertise since inception. As Dr. Aguirre says, “Anyone can fix a leaky bladder, but to be able to put it all together in improving bladder, bowel, and also sexual function—being able to improve a patient’s intimate life is so rewarding.” For more information, visit www.ascdenver.com or call Dr. Aguirre’s office directly at 303-322-0500. Aguirre Specialty Care is located at 9800 Pyramid Court, Suite 300, in Englewood. WE

Dr. Oscar Aguirre

Kids Comments

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Changes of the Season Transitions in Life March is a time of transitions. The days get longer, minute by minute. The thermometer gradually rises, degree by degree. The air feels a little warmer. Balmier breezes waft in from the south, pushing out the frigid Arctic air. Trees and other plants become tinged with a gently-hued, spring green...gone are the starkly gray, empty branches of winter. As the weather warms and spring approaches, many of our homes also make a transition. The freshening of nature reminds us that our houses also need refreshing. We dust and clean, rearrange and replace. I’ve known those who take down heavy winter draperies and replace them with lightweight, diaphanous, summer curtains that float gently in the breeze from open windows. I have a friend who changes out her winter clothes for her shoulderseason clothes. Heavy coats are exchanged for lighter jackets. Bulky sweaters make way for cardigans. The sweatshirts and sweatpants stay because they are useful in the cooler days of spring. Shorts and tank tops patiently await their turn. The change in the weather also brings changes in moods. The grayness of winter makes many people grumpy or sad. The lighter days of spring often lighten moods. It may be my imagination, but I think there are more smiles when people are able to get outdoors in the fresh air. School kids also benefit from time spent outdoors...I’ve noticed they seem to have more energy and happier expressions. I’ve also noticed the balmier days tend to make

By Marge Shoemaker, BS, MS

kids daydream, wistfully looking out classroom windows to the sunshine-filled school yard. Many teachers lengthen recess by a few minutes because they, too, are reluctant to go back indoors. Transitions affect all of us. My niece has had a year full of transitions. Her oldest son went away to college. Adjustment was required when he left...and was required again, by the entire family, when he came home for the holidays. Her second son earned his driver’s license. Mom is nervous; he is happy to have more freedom. The youngest sees his brothers making transitions into young adulthood and has to make adjustments to being “the only one at home.” My daughter is changing jobs...the company she worked with for 16 years was sold to another company out of state. The new company wanted her to travel, but her sons are mid-teens...she can’t leave them unsupervised for days at a time. A friend found it necessary to move into assisted living. Our lives require transitions, be they in our employment, our living arrangements, our expectations of others, or their expectations of us. For some, these transitions are difficult; for others, they are easily made. I think change is primarily a good thing. It keeps us on our toes. Like a spring breeze through an open window, a smooth transition freshens our thinking. Editor’s Note: Marge has three children, two grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. She holds advanced degrees in education. Her life’s mission is to teach everyone that kids are people, too. WE

March 2017

Healthy Living

Edward P. Sherlock, DDS, PC Making Dentistry Personal Again

By Wendy L. Pitton R.

If you’re blessed with beautiful teeth, you probably don’t think twice about sharing a smile with your family, your friends, and everyone you meet. But if your teeth are missing, chipped, or discolored, smiling might be a constant source of discomfort or embarrassment. Dr. Edward P. Sherlock and his team want you to know that you can regain your smile and self-confidence within their comfortable atmosphere. Dr. Sherlock is on a mission to make your trip to the dentist inviting and stress-free. His approach is to bring back the one-on-one, patient-first dental experience. “We like to work on one patient at a time,” states Dr. Sherlock. “In the franchised dentist industry, people just get pushed through. We like to really get to know our patients and find out what their dental needs are.” Dr. Sherlock was about seven when a dentist came through his class in elementary school. He was fascinated. However, his father, who had grown up on a farm, wanted his children to become doctors, lawyers, or accountants. Dr. Sherlock tried his hand at accounting, but the call to dentistry was loud and would not rest until fulfilled. Dr. Sherlock is a Colorado native and graduated from the University of Colorado School of Dentistry in 1995. As a patient, what can you expect when you visit Dr. Sherlock’s dental office? A friendly, warm, inviting atmosphere and the comfort of knowing that you are their top priority. Their services include cleanings, periodontal treatment, fillings, crowns, bridges, root canals, and everything else you would expect from a dentist. In addition, he offers many cosmetic dentistry options that can make a real difference in a patient’s confidence. Preventative treatments are vital to good health, but Dr. Sherlock says he most enjoys when a patient is pleased with a dramatic difference in the look of his or her teeth. “I enjoy when people bounce out the door because everything is so dramatic, black and white, from when they entered,” he shares. “When they walked in the door, their teeth weren’t all that great, but when they walk out, they’re saying, ‘Wow, look at what I got!’ They are smiling and happy about the difference. That is the aesthetic and fun part of cosmetic dentistry that I enjoy doing.” For patients who would be best served by a dental implant, Dr. Sherlock works closely with a group of trusted local specialists. “Not everyone has the correct bone structure for an implant, and we want to be sure we are doing what’s right for the patient and what will be most comfortable,” explains Dr. Sherlock. If implants are not the right solution, he and the specialists will consider whether adding a bridge or two would meet the patient’s needs. Dr. Sherlock points out that approximately 80

percent of implants are single teeth, whereas bridges often include multiple teeth. Patients should keep in mind that this type of dental work (implants and bridges) can take several months to accomplish but is worth the wait. If removable dentures are required, Dr. Sherlock is able to assist in this area of dentistry, as well. Tooth whitening is very popular and is a great way to improve a stained or discolored smile. However, Dr. Sherlock advises that patients should use a “less is more” approach with whitening and bleaching, both for the health of their teeth and the look. I was surprised to learn that you can actually over-whiten or over-bleach teeth, creating a blue hue. “The crystal enamel of your teeth is actually a blue color, which is neat, but not necessarily your ultimate goal when bleaching,” Dr. Sherlock points out. Continuous bleaching over time can remove all of the color of your teeth, leaving only the blue hue. “We can certainly do lots of different things with dentistry,” Dr. Sherlock acknowledges. “While it is ultimately up to the patient to decide what she wants, I also believe in being honest in my approach with patients’ requests.” He makes sure the treatment is cost-effective and that the likely results are what the patient really wants. In a world of insurance insecurities, Dr. Sherlock reassures his that he will help them cut through the red tape. Dr. Sherlock also offers payment plans for patients who need them—that’s all part of the one-on-one customer service that he can provide in a smaller office environment. When you sit in his chair, you are his one and only priority. Patients of all ages are welcome to consider the personal attention that Dr. Sherlock and his friendly team provide. To find out how Dr. Sherlock can help you get the smile you’ve always wanted or maintain the beautiful smile you already have, please call 303-420-1010 or visit www.sherlockdental.com. WE

Edward P. Sherlock, DDS, PC

“In the franchised dentist industry, people just get pushed through. We like to really get to know our patients and find out what their dental needs are.”

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March 2017

The Market Place Do you feel disrespected? Or manipulated? Are you walking on

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West Denver Counseling Living with a narcissist is living with abuse. The narcissist seems charming, loving, the “perfect person,” and too good to be true! Slowly, through manipulation and disrespect, selfdoubt, shame, and worthlessness set in. Unfortunately, this is happening every day to women who are educated, talented, and have good careers. You are not alone! At West Denver Counseling there is someone to talk to that can help. Be supported and validated while learning to be more assertive and how to advocate for yourself. Make changes in your life and live the life you deserve. Call today 303-507-3738 or visit the website at www.WestDenverCounseling.com for more information. Topping Designs Topping Designs is committed to creating couture designs with real sizing for ALL women. “So often the sizes offered by traditional designers do not represent the true woman. Many designers are not up to the challenge of creating garments that reflect the natural curves of most women.” Duane Topping, however, is up to the challenge. See his new spring collection and get $5 off admission to Denver’s Unique Week of Fashion, April 5th, 2017, with promo code TOPPING. Doors open at 6 p.m. Visit www.nightout.com for tickets and more information. Visit www.toppingdesigns.com today to shop their latest collections. Custom sizing is available! If you are interested in carrying Topping Designs in your boutique, call 720-212-5654. Why Weight Spring into weight loss! Debra Salter, M.D. and her Why Weight Team can help you lose weight the right way. After an extensive medical, physical, and psychological evaluation, Dr. Salter will create an individualized plan for you. They may use your resting metabolic rate, and use Verju Green Laser for targeted, painless, permanent fat cell elimination with dramatic 3 to 4 inch reduction. Patients in the weekly weight loss program qualify for $75 per Verju Laser Treatment (6 areas one side) when treatments are purchased. Spring into March with your best health and weight management in mind. Call today at 303-972-9138, email www.whyweightcolorado@gmail.com, or visit www. WhyWeightColorado.com.

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Cottonwood Kennels Nestled in a pastoral farm setting in east Boulder, award-winning Cottonwood Kennels provides a safe, loving, fun-filled environment for your pet, whether it’s for a day, several days, or several weeks. We are all about the pet-to-person connection, and we have a very large staff of big-hearted, hardworking pet lovers to provide lots of human interaction for your special pets. We also offer excellent grooming services. See our new video for a glimpse of Cottonwood life for your pets and our loving pet pals staff. Visit us online at www.cottonwoodkennels.com. Women Who Paint We are a woman-owned and operated painting business with over 13 years of experience and we love to paint! Our core values are attention to detail and providing superior quality to all of our customers. Women Who Paint is inspired by transforming an entire space into a warm environment for your home while also being eco-conscience. Whether it’s interior or exterior house painting, the entire crew is trained using only the newest painting techniques. Women Who Paint takes pride in making their customers’ desires a top priority. Call to receive a bid for painting or finishing projects, or find out how you can purchase gift cards for a holiday gift at 303-549-3113 or 303-666-8745. Advanced Practice Medical Aesthetics Advanced Practice Medical Aesthetics is featuring Restylane—a line of hyaluronic acid fillers used to smooth away wrinkles and fine lines, create fuller and more accentuated lips, and add lift and volume to the cheeks. March Madness Men’s Special! Save $300 OFF any combined treatment package! Patty Stewart, the provider at Advanced Practice Medical Aesthetics, gives complimentary consultations with a facial so she can become familiar with your skin. This consultation includes a thorough medical and skin history, skin typing, and laser/IPL spot testing to create an individualized, economical aesthetic plan! Call now for an appointment 720-515-3363 or visit www.APMAspa.com.

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March 2017

Cuddly Critters

An Ounce of Pest Prevention Fighting Fleas, Ticks, and Other Pests By Kathy Glow

Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes are disease-carrying pests that can cause serious health issues for household pets, if left untreated. Unfortunately, these pests are found in all 50 states and can be a problem during all four seasons. Luckily for our pets, pest prevention goes a long way toward keeping our furry friends safe and healthy. Fleas are a class of wingless insects which are parasites that live on the blood of a host animal. Fleas cause a variety of problems for pets; the most common is fleabite dermatitis. The allergy to the flea’s saliva can cause intense itching and, therefore, scratching, mostly on the back and at the base of the tail. Sometimes, your pet’s skin breaks open and gets infected. If your pet ingests fleas, it can get a tapeworm parasite. Though tapeworms can cause weight loss and an itchy rear end, they are easily treated by your veterinarian. Flea bite anemia is another medical issue brought on by fleas. It can be fatal, if left untreated. More common in puppies, kittens, and smaller pets, anemia occurs when an animal has an infestation so severe that its red blood cell count decreases. If caught in time, your veterinarian can treat your pet by removing the fleas, giving an oral flea medication, and administering supportive vitamin therapy. Ticks are parasites that attach to your pet and live off its blood. Ticks can be found outdoors in bushy and woody areas. If your pet spends any time outdoors, you should check its skin and fur for ticks and remove them as soon as possible. The skin where ticks attach can become red and irritated. If not found, ticks can consume enough of your pet’s blood to cause anemia. Some female ticks produce a toxin that can also cause a rare paralysis in dogs. Cats can contract a parasitic infection of the blood vessels of the lungs, liver, spleen, kidneys, and brain from ticks. Ticks also carry Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, which are more common in dogs than cats. Lyme disease can cause arthritis and swelling of your dog’s joints, resulting in painful lameness. Rocky Mountain spotted fever can cause fever, lameness, irregular heartbeat, and fluid retention, among other symptoms. Fleas and ticks, and the diseases they bring, are completely preventable. Talk to your veterinarian about the best preventive medications. There are many options to choose from, including topical and oral preventatives, collars, shampoos, and powders, all of which are safe for pets. Your veterinarian can show you how to apply these medications and recommend the right dose for your pet’s age and weight. Using the prevention year-round, as well as using good hygiene, cleaning up your pet’s feces, never feeding your pet raw meat, and visiting your veterinarian regularly will help keep tick and flea infestations at bay. A much more serious and potentially fatal disease, brought on by the bite of an infected mosquito,

is heartworm disease. Dogs are natural hosts for heartworms, while cats are atypical hosts. Once a dog is bitten by an affected mosquito, it takes about seven months for the worm larvae to mature into adult heartworms. Then, they invade the canine’s heart, lungs, and surrounding blood vessels and begin to reproduce. Heartworms can grow to 12 inches in length and live for up to seven years. If untreated, a dog can have as many as 250 worms in its system. Unlike the worms found in dogs, most heartworms in cats do not survive to adult stage. Cats usually have no more than three worms at a time. Heartworm disease often goes undiagnosed in cats, even though immature worms can cause lasting damage to a feline’s respiratory system. All dogs and cats should be given a monthly preventative medication for heartworm, even pets as young as eight weeks. Since pets can still get heartworm even while taking the medication, they should be tested annually. In most cases, a small amount of your pet’s blood is collected and tested for heartworm proteins. Signs of a heartworm infection in dogs include mild cough, fatigue, decreased appetite, and weight loss. In later stages, a swollen abdomen is noted. Similar signs are sometimes noted in cats; unfortunately, the first sign of heartworm disease in cats may be sudden collapse or death. There is no approved heartworm treatment for cats (canine medication does not work for them), so prevention of heartworms in cats is critical. If detected in your dog, your veterinarian will recommend restricted exercise so as not to increase the rate of damage to the heart and lungs. Drug therapy and treatment for heartworms in dogs is expensive, with costs running as much as $1,000. Indeed, Benjamin Franklin’s saying is true: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Sources for this article included: www.petmd.com, www.heartwormsociety.org, www.webmd.com, and www. petsandparasites.org. WE

Auto Wise

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Increasing Leasing A Popular Financing Option By Julie Kuntze

When I was growing up, my dad always bought my mother’s cars (all two of them) with cash. This was much easier to do because he had a “company car,” meaning that we usually had at least one new vehicle every two or three years, anyway. It’s great to be able to buy with cash, but—luckily—we have more choices in today’s market. Leasing a vehicle is gaining popularity. While it has many benefits, there are a few things consumers should keep in mind when choosing this option. Approximately 32 percent of all new cars and trucks sold in the first half of 2016 were leased—an all-time high. Millennials are (forgive the pun) driving this trend, but there has also been a steep rise in the number of Americans 75 years and older who are now leasing their vehicles. Jessica Caldwell, on Edmunds. com, notes, “Both millennials and seniors crave the highest quality product for the best possible price, and considering these groups are both at a place in their lives where they likely have limited monthly cash flow, leasing can seem like the most viable option.” Along with lower monthly payments and the ability to drive a pricier car, leasing also boasts benefits such as no (or low) down payments, no major maintenance costs (new vehicles are usually covered by warranty), and the ability to easily change cars every few years. There are a few different kinds of vehicle leasing. Closed-end (or “walk-away”) leases are the most common, where the signed contract notes the length of the lease, monthly payments, and mileage limits. The customer agrees to have routine maintenance completed (sometimes for free at the dealership), and, at the end of the term, the vehicle is returned in good condition to the dealership. An open-end lease, by contrast, has no mileage restrictions but may have higher monthly payments and, if the vehicle has depreciated below market value at the time of turn-in, the customer may have to pay the difference. Consumers with high credit scores may be eligible for a subvented lease, which offers low interest rates but is typically only available through certain manufacturers when they are struggling to move inventory. On occasion, consumers might want to arrange a single-payment lease, where the total amount of the lease is paid up front, eliminating monthly payments and drastically lowering interest fees. Most leases are signed for a 36-month term, but this varies; terms usually range from 24 to 60 months. At the end of a lease, consumers can usually buy the car for the “residual value” noted in the original contract. Essentially, the leasing company is estimating the value of the car three years out, which can turn out in your favor or theirs. If the market value of the vehicle ends up being more than the residual value, you might want to buy the car, particularly because you are familiar with its history. While most states require drivers to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance, leasing

companies often require collision and comprehensive insurance, as well. Some leases require gap insurance and often include the monthly premium as part of each payment. In case of an accident where the vehicle is totaled, the insurance company will only pay the current market value of the car, which may be thousands less than what is owed to the finance company; without gap insurance, the driver is on the hook for this balance. Arranging a lease can be more difficult and confusing than negotiating a straight “buy” price, and consumers should be cautious of a few things. For example: It might be tempting to put some money down up front in order to lower your monthly payments, but if the vehicle is totaled, that cash is gone and the lower payments are forfeited. In addition, some insurance companies have higher rates for leased vehicles than those that are owned, so be sure to understand your carrier’s policies. Leasing is not right for every consumer, however. It may end up being a bad deal, particularly if you drive more than the allowed mileage, cannot keep the vehicle in good condition, or have to break the lease (which could cost thousands in penalties). Before signing a lease agreement, inquire about the dealership’s leasing policies. Ask what fees must be paid (such as acquisition fees and security deposits), whether they are negotiable, and what must be paid up front (as opposed to fees that are rolled into the monthly payment). I give my dad kudos for always paying cash for cars, though it was tough to also pay cash for new head gaskets, brakes, shocks, struts, belts, transmissions, and more. Still, he might consider leasing the next time he shops for a vehicle—after all, retirement doesn’t offer a company car. Sources for this article included: www.dmv.org, www. consumerreports.org, www.usatoday.com, www.edmunds.com, and www.iii.org. WE March 2017

Income Outcome

Three Ingredients Bring Yourself More Fortune “There are three ingredients to the good life: learning, earning, and yearning.” —Christopher Morley I got this quote in a fortune cookie recently. I usually don’t spend much time analyzing these things, but for some reason I stuck it in my wallet—where it kept jumping out at me every time I went to pay for something. Finally, I took it out and began thinking about this whole concept. I concluded that there is an awful lot of truth on this little piece of paper. The Universe had delivered to me the key to a happy life! “Happiness...is not a destination: it is a manner of traveling. Happiness is not an end in itself. It is a byproduct of working, playing, loving, and living.” —Haim Ginott Remember the last time you discovered something new that you found exciting, interesting, or compelling? If you are like most of us, you probably made it a point to learn everything you could about it. While you were in the learning process, you most likely were focused, energized, and enthusiastic. Next in this fortune comes the word earning. According to Merriam Webster, earning means “to receive as return for effort.” Have you ever been given a reward that you didn’t feel you earned? Most of us realize no joy when this happens.

By Janet Van deWalle

Effort is a good thing. It allows us to focus; it gives us something to put our attention to. When we set a goal and have to strive to achieve it, then we typically feel a sense of true accomplishment. Earning is the payoff for all the enthusiasm and excitement that we put into learning about what we have decided to be passionate about. “There are two things to aim at in life: first, to get what you want; and, after that, to enjoy it. Only the wisest of mankind achieve the second.” —Logan Pearsall Smith Last, let’s consider the word yearning. The definition is “to long persistently.” What would our lives be like if we didn’t want anything? If, somehow, we had achieved every goal we had ever set for ourselves, how would we feel? Now, some may think that this would truly be nirvana. Yes, it may feel good and make us happy for a very brief time, but wouldn’t we soon become absolutely bored? If there no longer was anything that we wanted to learn about, wanted to become passionate about, wanted to earn, wouldn’t life be a lot less than joyful? “Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.” —Mahatmas Gandhi

The Good Life

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Child Care Educate Yourself on Your Child’s Options

By Ashley Anderson

In many of today’s households, both parents work full-time jobs, and usually at the same time of day. When parents are not able to provide care to their young children during working hours, the family must explore options for alternative care. When evaluating what type of alternative care is best for your child, there are a number of considerations. The first choice is what location suits your family best. Child care can be provided in your own home via a nanny, babysitter, or another family member. Alternatively, you may elect to have your child cared for at someone else’s home. An in-home provider is someone who provides child care in her home, likely for a small group of children. Even though they’re working in their own homes, childcare providers must still be licensed to take responsibility for the well-being of one or more children in a parent’s absence. Rules for licensing in-home childcare providers vary by state. Be sure to confirm that your provider is licensed and is trained in child first aid and CPR. Another consideration when evaluating a childcare provider is the age of your children. Some childcare providers do not take infants or schoolaged children. (This can be due to risk aversion, the limitations of the provider, or simple preference.) Also consider the provider’s hours of operation. Can you pick up your children after your work shift ends? Is care provided on holidays or during school breaks? Lastly, you will want to evaluate the payment options available from the childcare provider. Are you required to pay for a full week if your child only needs care for three days? Childcare facilities can be great options for working parents. A childcare facility provides childcare services as a business, with multiple employees providing care to a large group of children of various ages. They provide care during the day and traditionally will provide at least one meal for children, as well as facilitate activities to occupy them during the hours that they are being cared for. Some facilities only provide care for children who are too young to attend school; some facilities also provide before- or after-school care for children in grade school. Childcare facilities are different from preschools because they often provide extended hours of care, are available to care for children during school breaks, and provide care for a wider range of ages. Childcare facilities are not obligated to provide a means of education for children; however, some facilities do. Preschools traditionally provide early education and prepare children to enter grade school in the coming years. Therefore, preschools typically provide care services for children who are four to six years of age. Preschools may also provide services for younger children. Preschool services are typically provided in a

school-like setting, and the teachers are traditionally required to have a background or training in early childhood education. There are a number of different types of preschools, each providing a unique educational experience. Traditional preschool provides students with education that is preparatory for grade school. Students learn in a classroom setting and participate in teacher-led activities, while allowing for some leisure play in a daily routine. Specialized development preschools may vary, but each provides a unique focus. Some emphasize learning life skills over traditional classroom content, some focus on a specific topic of education like art or music, and some provide language learning or multicultural education. Many religious institutions provide preschool for families of their faith. Montessori schools are based on the approach of educator Maria Montessori, who valued student independence in the classroom. In these preschools, the focus is on individual learning, and teachers act as guides. Montessori preschool students are encouraged to meet their own needs and participate in hands-on activities. Understanding what type of education is important to you and your child will help to select a preschool that meets your family’s needs. Most parents today will need or want some kind of alternative care for their young children. Finding the right place for your child is easier once you understand the different kinds of child care that are available in your community. Be sure to take a tour of any home or facility that you’re considering, and ask plenty of questions. When you’re armed with the right information, you’ll be able to make a good selection for your family. Sources for this article included: www.omahamontessori.com, daycare.com, www. babycenter.com, www.parents. com, and www. greatschools.org. WE March 2017

To Your Good Health

Bariatric Surgery: Is It for Me? Surgical Therapy to Battle Obesity

By Kylie Gumpert

Surgical weight loss, or bariatric surgery, is an option that some people with obesity can explore to help them lose weight that is threatening their health. For many people, even people who are significantly overweight, positive changes to diet and exercise routines can be sufficient means to bring their weight down to a safe level. Bariatric surgery is not an alternative to diet and exerciseâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;it is a serious solution for people whose weight problems cannot otherwise be controlled. For some people who are significantly overweight, meaning they have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or above, losing weight by traditional means may not be feasible. For example, some people are physically incapable of exercise because of their level of obesity or other health problems. Also, if a person is already experiencing serious health risks related to obesity (heart disease, for example), she may not have time to lose enough weight through traditional means. In these cases, surgical weight loss may be explored. These options work to limit the amount of food that is consumed and absorbed by the body. As many as half of patients may gain up to 5 percent of their excess weight back within a few years after bariatric surgery, but most patients still lose about half of their excess weight and keep it off for the long term. There are several bariatric surgery options. Traditional gastric

bypass involves separating the top part of the stomach from the rest of the stomach. This creates a pouch that is significantly smaller, which limits the amount of food that can be consumed. Part of the small intestine is also bypassed, which limits the nutrients and calories absorbed by the body. With a sleeve gastrectomy, almost 80 percent of the stomach is actually removed from the body. The effect is similar to the gastric bypass but is more drastic. A gastric band and a gastric balloon are non-permanent surgical options, as they can be removed. The band is gradually tightened around the stomach, limiting how much food can be consumed, while the grapefruit-sized balloon is placed inside the stomach to bring about the same effect. The most drastic option is called biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch. It involves removing part of the stomach and bypassing about three quarters of the small intestine. This results in greater weight loss and works best to reduce effects from diabetes. However, since so much of the small intestine is removed, it puts the patient at greater risk for vitamin, mineral, and protein deficiencies.

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The risk of these nutritional deficiencies is possible with all forms of bariatric surgery, as are general complications that can arise from removing and rearranging parts of the digestive tract. Because these surgeries involve limiting food intake and nutrient absorption, it is vitally important to follow food regimens provided by your doctor and surgeon, including how often you can eat, how much you can eat, and what kinds of foods you can eat to make sure you are receiving the nutrients you need. Being obese or even severely obese (with a BMI of 40 or more) does not necessarily qualify someone for bariatric surgery. A team of medical professionals including a doctor, surgeon, dietician, and psychologist will run tests to help determine if you are medically and psychologically prepared for this type of surgery and to weigh the possible benefits of a surgery over the risks. If you have issues with blood clotting or liver function, for example, your body may not be able to handle surgery. If you have a binge eating disorder, you may not yet be psychologically prepared for the life changes you’ll need to make after surgery. Many insurance companies provide coverage for bariatric surgery, but coverage varies widely, so it’s important to read the fine print. If you believe you qualify for coverage and are being denied, you can request a peer-to-peer review from your surgeon, who will schedule time to sit down with the insurance company’s medical director and explain why you should qualify for coverage. Once your medical team has done all the tests and evaluations they need and have determined that surgery is a good fit for you, they will give you instructions on how to prepare. This may include quitting smoking, starting an exercise routine, and limiting certain foods and medications. After surgery, lifelong changes to your eating and exercise routine will be necessary. You will participate in a follow-up plan to make sure you are being supported in your new lifestyle and are obtaining the right nutrients to stay healthy. Bariatric surgery is not for everyone, but it can be a lifesaver for some patients battling obesity and its related health problems. Sources for this article included: www. asmbs.org, www.mayoclinic.org, and www. obesityaction.org. WE

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March 2017

View from the Top

Innovative Skin Care Look Good, Feel Good at Aura By Jules Marie

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder…but sometimes, it’s in the hands of a skilled and passionate surgeon who specializes in aesthetic plastic surgery. Nathan Roesner, DO, owner of Aura Advanced Skin Care & Plastic Surgery, is such a surgeon. As a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, he brings a holistic outlook to his practice. His goal is for all patients to achieve their desire to look natural and healthy. Patient Liz Erskine considers Aura her go-to clinic for the nips and tucks that she feels help maintain her youthfulness. “I used to frequent various medi-spas when I travelled. Two years ago, I was referred to Dr. Roesner, and now I won’t go anywhere else,” says Liz. “Every little thing I want help with, I’ve had done at Aura: liposuction, body sculpting, Botox, and fillers. Dr. Nathan’s techniques have given me better results than all the doctors I’ve gone to in previous years. Nothing looks artificial. He really understands the science behind everything he does. He’ll make suggestions to give better results, and he won’t push me into something that won’t benefit me.” Liz is also a big fan of Nicole Roesner, a Registered Nurse who specializes in Botox and filler injections in this full-service clinic. “Nicole teaches me about my body, skin, and muscles. She only addresses my concerns and lets everything else flow naturally. They get to the root of the cause and take care of it,” Liz explains. Aura remains on the forefront of new technologies, as they continually participate in trials for new techniques and procedures. A recent trial involved radiofrequency micro-needling, which rejuvenates the skin and helps stimulate collagen. They also use the DermaPen, which is a vertical micro-needling device that creates a series of hundreds of vertical microscopic channels into the dermis to stimulate the natural production of new collagen and elastin. Although they stay on the cutting edge of technology, the staff at Aura doesn’t bend to hot trends that haven’t been established as effective. Given the popularity of CoolSculpting at Aura, they’ve added an additional machine so that more surface area can be treated at once. CoolSculpting is an FDA-cleared, non-invasive fat removal technique. A small device adheres to the skin and delivers controlled cooling to the targeted area, which freezes, and ultimately reduces, fat cells. It allows body shaping and contouring in areas with bothersome bulges. Registered nurses perform CoolSculpting treatments and often note that patients appreciate this less expensive and comfortably tolerated procedure. Patients can read, relax, nap, check email, or watch TV during the

procedure—and walk out afterwards. People appreciate minimally-invasive or noninvasive cosmetic procedures that yield tangible results with little downtime or discomfort. Some of Aura’s rejuvenation solutions include facials, peels, laser hair removal, laser skin resurfacing, microdermabrasion, acne, scars, aging issues, age spots, and more—all with the goal of destroying unhealthy cells, rebuilding healthy collagen, and firming and toning the skin. Dr. Roesner notes that patients come to Aura for advanced procedures, not just a quick fix. He says, “People seek us out for advanced skin care treatments, medical grade products, and non-invasive and surgical sculpting techniques of the face and body. Some think of it as pausing or turning back the clock, while others think of it as preventative maintenance. It’s important to take care of what you have.” He has also noticed an uptick in male patients. “Men are not being driven to come in by women anymore,” he explains. “They’re coming in because of a competitive job market. Men who want to feel youthful and fit are asking for tummy tucks, Botox, and fillers. We’re doing liposuction on the neck and love handles. Another procedure men come in for frequently is Kybella or Coolsculpting for a double chin. I think it’s completely reasonable that men seek us out. Women work hard to keep up their appearance, and men shouldn’t feel bad about seeking out services for themselves.” In 2012, Dr. Roesner founded Mile High Plastic Surgery, a full-service aesthetic surgical practice with offices in Thornton and Lakewood. Aura was chosen as one of the top 10 clinics based on client satisfaction by the American Institute of Plastic Surgeons in 2016 and 2017. Aura Advanced Skin Care & Plastic Surgery offers complimentary consultations with an educational focus to help patients make informed and medically sound treatment decisions. They’re located in the Water Street building at 2595 Canyon Boulevard, Suite 360, in Boulder. View before and after galleries and read patient testimonials at www.AuraBoulder.com or call the office at 303-440-7546. WE

Nathan Roesner, DO

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Our afternoon dance party As a mom, we know your family is why. Why you work so hard to make healthy choices every day so you can experience more of life’s precious moments together. We’ve got your back; to make sure more of those moments happen. But we can’t do it without you. While you’re serving more fruits and veggies at home, we’re impacting laws that help shape healthier communities — and it doesn’t stop there. You see, together we can make an extraordinary impact. Because when moms unite, real change happens.

Join other moms and together let’s create a healthier generation of families. Life is Why. Unite for change at LifeIsWhy.org/Moms

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March 2017

Home Works

Softscapes and Retaining Walls A Beautiful Yard With Minimal Yard Work

By Anne Yankus

Last month, we talked about landscaping with hard features in the yard. This month, as a continuation of that topic, we’re going to focus on the softer elements of your yard. While gardens may seem like an eternal fixture in landscaping, trends do come and go. Let’s start off by talking about this year’s popular trends in landscaping. As I mentioned in last month’s article, hardscaping continues to be an up and coming trend. However, it’s not just brick and concrete that’s in this year. Some other popular trends are the use of color blocking with plants, pots, and their surroundings; hyper-localism, which is the heavy use of native and endemic plants; and natural dye gardens, which means choosing plants that can be used in natural dyes. Other popular items include dwarf shrubs and other low-maintenance plants. Between work, family, and other obligations, it’s really no surprise that low-maintenance yards and gardens have become so popular. Expanding outdoor living spaces and hardscaping will indeed keep your landscaping low-maintenance, but some of us still yearn for some lush green space in our yards. Some ideas for minimizing your garden’s upkeep are including things like crushed stone or mulch beds. Mulch functions as fertilizer for your plants, and both alternatives help prevent weeds from growing. As a bonus, mulch is relatively inexpensive and only needs to be replaced once per year. Another great idea for keeping your gardening work minimal is to plant perennials.

These plants need to be planted just once and will come back every year. Planning your gardens with low-maintenance plants and features isn’t the only way to keep yard upkeep at a minimum: there’s also water conservation. First and foremost, you’ll want to know exactly how much water your plants really need and what the evapotranspiration (Et) rate is in your area. When you know how much water your plants need, you can avoid overwatering (and the water waste and extra work that come with it). Another way to conserve water is to only water plants in the early morning hours. Xeriscaping is a method of promoting water conservation through systematically planned landscaping that requires very little supplemental watering. Speaking of planning your landscape, one thing you’ll definitely want to consider adding to your master plan is a retaining wall (or two). Retaining walls serve a valuable purpose for reclaiming heavily sloped yards that are suitable only for grass but are still difficult to mow. When installed correctly, retaining walls can create additional flat surfaces for more

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softscapes (or hardscapes). They can even add to your house’s aesthetic value and curb appeal. Retaining walls can be made from a variety of materials, from concrete (solid or in blocks), railroad ties, natural stone, brick, or even wood. Depending on the lay of your land, there are a variety of ways to set up a retaining wall, such as gravity walls, pre-cast crib walls, or gabion walls. While something like a gravity wall with stones or brick may seem like a simple enough DIY project, you may want to consider hiring an experienced landscape design contractor, especially if it’s your first time working with masonry. Something I mentioned before (but cannot be stressed enough) is just how much landscaping can improve the value of your home. When done professionally, a quality landscape can add up to 20 percent to your home’s value. Hardscaping elements described in last month’s article will give you an extra edge in home value, but it’s important not to forget about the basics. Like many things in life, a good landscape needs a good base, which includes plantings and other softscaping elements. A good rule of thumb, according to the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA), is to invest around 10 percent of your home’s value into its landscaping. Bear in mind that to get the maximum value out of your landscape, you’ll want to hire a professional landscape architect or designer. In addition to getting around 15 percent more value for your home, hiring a landscape architect will help you create an overall plan for your yard that will help incorporate all the features you want without ruining the aesthetic. A landscape designer will also be able to help you decide what plants and features will suit your personal gardening skill level best and break everything down into phases, to keep from doing your whole yard at once and breaking the bank. Landscaping doesn’t have to be a burden. With the right knowledge and professional help, the boon of having a beautiful yard with minimal upkeep is within any homeowner’s grasp. Sources for this article included: www. gardendesign.com, www.asla.org, www. popularmechanics.com, energy.gov, and www.researchgate.net. WE March 2017

Positive Perspective

Are You Stressed? Take a Moment To Breathe “Is everything as urgent as your stress would imply?” —Carrie Latet It seems that as the years pass and we are inundated with more technologies that are said to make our lives “easier,” our stress levels just seem to increase. No longer do we live in a society where we can go somewhere and just get lost in the moment, spend quiet time uninterrupted. Instead, we are constantly connected via emails and text messages. Today, it is almost unimaginable to think of life without computers, iPads, and cell phones, yet that reality was not too long ago. “The mark of a successful man is one that has spent an entire day on the bank of a river without feeling guilty about it.” —Author Unknown When was the last time that you were able to do this? I know that I have an extremely hard time unwinding, even on the weekends or on vacation. I have a tendency to think about what I could or should be doing instead. “Don’t let your mind bully your body into believing it must carry the burden of its worries.” —Astrid Alauda Stress has just become a normal part of our everyday life. We

By Janet Van deWalle

seem to accept that work, family, and other commitments go handin-hand with stress. But, does it really have to be like this? Recently, I have made the decision to change my attitude, change my view on work and home, and, most importantly, find a way to reduce my stress. I have started to realize the importance of finding my own means to relax. I see friends and family running around acting as though the world will come to a crashing halt if they miss a day of work or if they aren’t there for an event. The list goes on and on. I’m sure that we’ve all been guilty of this; I know I have. Now I am making a conscious effort to find time to relax. There truly are more important things in life. I am finding it easier to leave my work at work and laugh at the small things that used to annoy me. Overall, I’m feeling much better. “Sometimes the most important thing in a whole day is the rest we take between two deep breaths.” —Etty Hillesum When was the last time you stopped and took a deep breath? It’s so easy, with your career, home life, and the world as a whole, to forget to breathe. If everyone could just take a step back and relax, rest their mind and body, we would all be less stressed and perhaps a little happier. So today, just try for five minutes to take some time for yourself. Take a moment to breathe, and feel refreshed. WE

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