Women's Edition Lincoln – June 2019 by Women's Edition Magazine

THE MAGAZINE FOR METROPOLITAN WOMEN

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June 2019

Publisher’s Notes

Celebration! Welcome to our 33rd anniversary issue! What an experience this has been. Women’s Edition was launched in Omaha in 1986 to help our readers connect with our advertisers. When we started, women made or influenced 80 percent of all buying decisions. Now, the percentage is up to 85. Everyone here at the magazine takes great pride in providing our readers with up-to-date articles and advertisements that—hopefully—make all of our lives easier! I have seen a lot of changes over the years. One constant, however, has been the positive feedback we get from our loyal readers and advertisers. It makes it all very worthwhile. Thank you all very much. I also have to thank my team at Women’s Edition: Tiffanie, Erin, Roxy, Veronica, and Liz. Each one of them comes in with a smile on her face and a passion to help our advertisers. It’s what we do…and will continue to do for many years to come. Thank you to our writers and distribution staff, as well. As this anniversary issue has been approaching, I have been reflecting on what a great experience it has been to own my own business. My father, Alfred Albracht, was the major influence on me wanting to be an entrepreneur. “Big Al” owned his own business his entire life. First, it was insurance, and then he went into home improvement. My dad supported the love of his life, my mother, Anne—along with six kids!—with his hard work. Looking back on those years, I don’t know how he did it. Dad passed on in 1991…a very long time ago. With Father’s Day this month, along with this being our anniversary issue, I thought it would be appropriate to thank Big Al. I smile every time I think about him. He was a softie who was absolutely passionate about his wife and kids. He was a very proud man with a very big heart. He taught me my work ethic, how to laugh, and how to tease without being cruel. I got my sense of humor from him. He was a very good man, and I am blessed that he was my father. I think about him every time I go by the Miracle Hills Golf Course, which is just a few blocks from my office. I have a feeling he’s still sneaking in a game of golf a couple times a week. Love you, Dad. Hope you all have a great month! Before I finish up, I wanted to let you all know that I am getting married. Yes, married! I’ll share more next month.

Points of Interest Father’s Day is June 16th! We have many gift ideas and specials for the fathers in your life throughout this issue. Capital Patio and Flame Shop is having a live grilling demo and a big Father’s Day sale. Flip over to page 29 to see all the details for their event. Women’s Edition would like to welcome Beka Boutique and their one-of-a-kind fashions to the magazine! See their ad on page 7. Wilderness Kennels offers a variety of dog training packages to help dogs and their owners get the proper training they need. Learn more about them in their ad on page 1. John at Budget Blinds shares more about himself and all of the services you’ll find at Budget Blinds of Lincoln. Read more in our Out and About article on page 22 and check out their ad on page 1. Dr. Clare at Nebraska Orthopedic and Sports Medicine talks about foot and ankle health in our Healthy Living article on page 26. Find their ad on page 5. Explore the history waiting for you at Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer. Read about their special events in their ad on page 9. Flip to page 18 and see the Designer Textures Collection from Johnson Hardware Company. They offer unique hardware solutions for kitchens, baths, doors, and more. Women’s Edition Magazine is hiring for a part-time B2B appointment setter/office support person. Please call Erin at 888-892-4076 in our Omaha office for an initial phone interview.

Janet Van deWalle, National Publisher On the Cover: Tommy Bahama Photography courtesy of Ben Watts for Tommy Bahama

Positive Thought of the Month “My father didn’t tell me how to live. He lived, and let me watch him do it.” —Clarence Budington Kelland

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June 2019

Inside This Edition 2 Publisher’s Notes

Out and About

6 Fashion Worthy

To Your Good Health

9 Zodiac Forecast

Healthy Living

10 Weekend Gourmet

Home Works

12 The Good Life

The Market Place

14 A Woman’s Work

Income Outcome

16 Good Looks

Kids Comments

18 Interiors By Design

Cuddly Critters

20 Fresh Concept

Focus On Finance

Positive Perspective

The gift of vision is important.You want to stay abreast of any changes and of the latest treatments so you can continue to enjoy the most delightful of our senses—sight!

It’s vacation season again! It’s so much fun to daydream about vacation. It’s less fun to figure out what you’re going to pack…Let’s get started!

National Publisher/Editor Janet Van deWalle

12 Customer Service Coordinator Tiffanie Gregory

Art & Editorial Director Erin Lanza

Copy Editor Liz Huett

Women’s Edition 4210 So uth 33rd Stre et, S u ite 240 • Lin coln, NE 68506 • (402) 466-2677 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 2019, 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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June 2019

Fashion Worthy Worthy

Ready for Vacation? Pack Smarter, Not Harder By Holly Bell

It’s vacation season again! It’s so much fun to daydream about vacation, fantasizing about all the relaxing time that will be yours to spend and all the cool new things you will see, discover, and do. It’s less fun to figure out what you’re going to pack, but a well-packed bag is vital to the success of any trip, from camping to cruising. Let’s get started! First and foremost are the things that you should bring in your carry-on so that your vacation isn’t ruined if your luggage gets lost. In fact, packing a carry-on bag is a good idea even if you are traveling by car—it will give you quick access to the items you need most, without having to dig in a big suitcase or unpack the whole trunk. Most people think of toiletries when they think of carryons. Things like medicines, toothbrush and toothpaste, and deodorant are certainly important, but there are a few less often considered items that you might need. These invaluable things might include a small pair of scissors (less than four inches from the pivot point, for planes), needle and thread or safety pins, hand sanitizer, plastic zip-top bags (make sure to pack your liquid items in these bags to prevent spilling and to comply with TSA rules), and a phone charger. Perhaps the most important item is a large, multifunctional scarf! Use it as a small blanket to sit on at a concert or as an emergency picnic blanket. Fold it up and use it as a pillow. Tie it around your waist over a bathing suit. If it’s cold, wrap up in it. A long rectangular scarf is perfect for this—just tie each of the two ends of the shortest part of the rectangle together to form sleeves. Shrug it over your shoulders with your arms in the “sleeves,” and you have an instant jacket! Get caught in the rain? Use it to wrap around your head. You can even use it as a makeshift satchel if you end up having to carry items unexpectedly. The best thing about a scarf is that it takes up so little room in your bag. Consider rolling your clothing items instead of folding them. They take up less space this way and end up less wrinkled. Also, you can see things easily, since they are not piled on top of one another. Be sure to take advantage of every bit of space in that bag! For example, if you have shoes in your bag, don’t leave them empty—fill them with rolled socks or small items like jewelry or underwear (in a plastic bag). Another space-saving packing tip when traveling by plane: Wear your heaviest items onto the plane. If you must have those hiking boots, wear them to the airport.

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If you must have that heavy sweater or jacket, wear it, and then take it off to stow when you board. Wearing your larger items will make your suitcase lighter, saving your strength and, possibly, your money. Keep in mind, too, that you need to leave extra room in your suitcase for those must-have purchases you find along the way. Packing light isn’t easy, but it can be made easier by deciding on a color story and sticking to it. Black and white is the easiest. If you are opting for lighter tones, try beige or taupe and cream. These colors are easy to mix and match with anything that is more brightly colored. They can look dressy or casual and can be made appropriate for most any occasion. Keep in mind that you will probably purchase clothing while you’re on vacation, and you’ll want to wear it right away! You’ll need to have something that works with everything. Speaking of working with everything, I have found that a nude bra with detachable and exchangeable straps is awesome on a trip. You can make it work with any outfit. Don’t forget a sports bra for those active or just comfy days. I know it’s tempting to pack some cute sundresses, especially if you are going to a warm climate, but you will probably not wear them. Instead, pack a black dress that can be worn with sandals or sneakers. There are so many cute sneakers out there right now! Pick a really lightweight white pair to be your go-to footwear. Leave the heels at home. You will not wear them. I hope you’re dreaming about a fabulous getaway right now. Whether it’s a weekend with friends or an extended trip with family, be safe and comfortable! Leave your valuables (especially jewelry) at home. Bring clothing you can mix and match and layer for various weather. A little planning before you pack can make for a much more enjoyable vacation! 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 tommybahama.com

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Zodiac Forecast

GEMINI

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May 21—June 20

Happy birthday, Gemini! You are known to be lively! You will spend a good amount of your birthday month hosting exciting events. You love having others around. This is the time to live a happy life, free from stress. Social events add a certain amount of fulfillment. Career will be in the back of your mind while contemplating how to enhance it in the future. Cancer (Jun 21–July 22) Your social events are important and seem rather successful. Although you may depend on others for social success, be mindful not to lose your voice or identity.

Capricorn (Dec 23–Jan 19) The stars are aligned and in your favor for your professional goals. You have put in the hard work, and the reward will be great success.

Leo (July 23–Aug 22) Lions are truly tested this month. Your emotional and mental health is weakened by the amount of stress you may be dealing with. Traveling may be the only remedy to rejuvenate your mind. Embrace it!

Aquarius (Jan 20–Feb 18) Your creativity peaks this month, and you can shine a new light on already developed ideas. Adding new goals and professional objectives will soon follow.

Virgo (Aug 23–Sep 22) The House of Health is very important to Virgos this month. Maintain a healthy routine and remember to rest adequately to enhance your energy level. Libra (Sep 23–Oct 22) This month will be about family and personal affairs. You will experience an elevated social awareness and good family moments, which bring you blessings.

Pisces (Feb 19–Mar 20) This is a good time for you to travel and rediscover yourself and others. Interact with people from around the world, and help when help is needed. Others may not be as blessed as some. Aries (Mar 21–April 19) You are feeling highly ambitious, and others are collaborating in your success. Great professional and financial development is achieved through others, both locally and internationally.

Scorpio (Oct 23–Nov 21) Others may notice you exhibiting a lot more independence in many areas of your life. This is important to help you adapt when others are not around to assist. Sagittarius (Nov 22–Dec 22) Change is inevitable. This will be a month of changes; some may be unexpected. Try to accept them as they come.

Taurus (Apr 20–May 20) Personal growth is a priority for you. This month, you are committed to getting yourself physically fit. Perhaps a new gym or workout routine will suffice. Family is important but is in the background this month, since you are prioritizing yourself. WE

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June 2019

Weekend Gourmet

Celebrating Dads, Grads, and Summer Days! By Kate Beiting

Asparagus Casserole Mix together 1 cup of milk, 3 eggs, and 1 small jar of drained pimientos. Cut 1 pound of trimmed fresh asparagus into 2-inch pieces and blanch for 2 minutes, then drain. Place the asparagus in a greased baking dish and season with salt and pepper as desired. Sprinkle 3/4 cup of crumbled crackers (butter or saltine) on top of the asparagus, and sprinkle in 1 cup of shredded cheese. Pour the milk/egg mixture over the top. Pour 2 Tablespoons of melted butter over the mixture. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Homestyle Granola Cook 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/3 cup of real maple syrup, and 1/3 cup of olive oil over low heat until the sugar is dissolved. Set aside. In a large bowl, mix together 3 cups of rolled oats, 1 cup of unsweetened coconut flakes, 1/3 cup of pumpkin seeds, 1 cup of shelled pistachios, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir well. Pour the sugar mixture over the oat mixture and stir to coat. Pour onto a parchment-lined jelly roll pan. Bake at 300 degrees for 35 minutes, stirring a few times. Pour the mixture back into a bowl and add 3/4 cup of dried fruits of your choice, like raisins or craisins, sour cherries, diced apricots, or tropical fruit mix. Serve over berries and yogurt.

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ASPARAGUS CASSEROLE

Dad’s Spicy Egg Casserole Cook and crumble a pound of fresh chorizo or spicy hot sausage; drain on paper towels. Sauté 3 cups of frozen hash brown potatoes for about 5 minutes. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and 1/2 of a sliced red pepper and cook for another minute. In a large bowl, mix 5 eggs with 1 and 1/2 cups of half and half and 2 teaspoons of chili powder. Stir in a can of chopped green chilies. In a 9x13-inch casserole dish, layer the potatoes, the sausage, and 2 cups of grated Jack or pepper Jack cheese. Pour the egg mixture on top. Sprinkle on another 1/4 cup of grated cheese. Bake at 350 degrees for 35–40 minutes. Let set for 10 minutes. Serve with sour cream, salsa, pepper sauce, and chopped onions.

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Oven Brisket Trim a large piece of brisket to your preference. Place in an aluminum-lined baking dish. Mix together 1 can of cream of mushroom soup and 1 packet of dry soup mix. Spread the mixture on top of the brisket. Wrap the meat tightly in foil. Bake in the oven at 325 degrees for 45 minutes per pound (test temperature for accuracy). Cut across the grain. Serve with cooked potatoes and green beans. Overnight Refrigerator Salad In a bowl, mix together 1 cup of mayonnaise and 2 Tablespoons of sugar; set aside. In a large glass bowl or 9x13-inch casserole dish, layer the following: 1 medium head of chopped and washed iceberg lettuce (add mixed greens or romaine, if desired), 3 chopped hard-cooked eggs, 1 medium chopped green or red pepper, 4 diced green onions, 2 cups of frozen peas, and 1 pound of crisp, crumbled bacon. Spread the mayonnaise mixture over the top. Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Cover and refrigerate. Dad’s Favorite Carrot Cake For the cake: Grease and flour a 12-cup Bundt cake pan and set aside. Blend together 1 and 1/2 cups of flour, 1 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 3/4 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of cloves, 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon of allspice. Add 3/4 cup of vegetable or canola oil and mix well. Add 3 eggs, one at a time. Mix together 1 and 1/2 cups of finely grated carrots, 1 Tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1/2 cup of crushed pineapple. Add the carrot mixture to the egg mixture and blend. Add the flour mixture to the egg mixture, mix lightly, and add 1 cup of golden

raisins and 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans. Pour into the Bundt pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 55 minutes (do a toothpick test). Cool for 15 minutes, then invert onto a serving platter. For the frosting: Mix 8 ounces of room-temperature cream cheese with 1/3 cup of soft butter, 1 and 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla, and 2 cups of powdered sugar. Blend until smooth. You can slather on the frosting or put it in a piping bag. Banana Cake In a large mixing bowl, blend together 1 box of yellow super moist cake mix, 1 small package of instant banana pudding, 4 eggs, 1/4 cup of vegetable oil, and 1 cup of water. Add 2 lightly mashed ripe bananas. Pour into a greased and floured Bundt cake pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 35–45 minutes, until a toothpick tests clean. Cool for 30 minutes. Invert. Sprinkle with powdered sugar when cool, or drizzle with a powdered sugar glaze (1 cup of powdered sugar mixed with 1 Tablespoon of warm milk). Forever Bars Cream together 1 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of white sugar, 1 cup of melted butter, and 4 cups of oatmeal. Press into a lightly greased 9x13-inch baking dish and bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes. Cool. Melt 6 ounces of chocolate chips with 3/4 cup of creamy peanut butter and 1 teaspoon of vanilla. Spread the frosting over the bars. Editor’s Note: Kate has been an Omaha area culinary instructor since 1997. She attended The Institute for the Culinary Arts at Metropolitan Community College in Omaha. WE

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June 2019

The Good Life

The Great American Craft Beer Craze Happy, Hoppy Beer

By Janette Calabro

As Plato once said, “He was a wise man who invented beer.” It’s so true! Over the centuries, beer has developed to satisfy changing tastes and in response to new technology and processes. You’re sure to have heard the term “craft beer,” which is all the rage…but what is it? The formal definition of “craft beer” is a traditional beer produced by a small and usually independently owned brewery. Some say the craze started in the late 1960s, when regional breweries consolidated or closed. Others say the movement began in 1972, when Corvallis, Oregon, released Cascade hops to brewers. By 2018, the retail dollar for craft brewers reached an estimated $26 billion, with more than 7,000 operating microbreweries. The most unusual yet giddy economic story in America is that small breweries are still growing—driven by consumer demand for better flavor, more variety, and support of small and local businesses. Next time you’re sipping your way into frothy heaven, consider what makes your beer taste so “crafty.” Beer needs four main ingredients—water, malted barley, yeast, and hops. Together, they are what builds the flavor and color into a specialty brew. First on the ingredient list is high-quality water. Water makes up over 90 percent of your pint, so sub-par water is not going to cut it. Malts are selected with deliberate attention to create color and to produce a full-bodied, complex flavor. That jolt of alcohol comes from malt—so does the distinct sweetness and deep aroma. If you’re feeling a little harebrained toward the end of your drink, you can thank the cereal grain for that—not the cereal you ate for breakfast, but the barley grain processed into malt. Barley produces sugars that yeast turns into alcohol, and the yeast determines if the beer is an ale (heavier bodied) or a lager (lighter, crispier taste). Hops are called the “spice” of beer, and they come from a flowerlike pinecone that grows on vines. Hops, a member of the hemp family, are taken seriously by brewers, adding a signature bitterness and a lot of excitement. If the brewer introduces them early in the brewing process, the beer will have more bite or bitterness. Add hops later, and the result is more body, flavor, and smell. The flower in the hops plant releases oils and resins that balance malt sweetness, a dominant quality in craft beers. Medicinally, hops are commonly used to treat anxiety, sleep disorders, tension, even attention deficithyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Commercially, there are an estimated 80 hops plants, all catering to the “hopped up” brews still growing in popularity today. One favorite, Cascade hops, grown in the Cascade Mountain Range in the Pacific Northwest, commonly give pale ale or porter a citrusy taste and flowery scent. Another cult favorite, Centennial hops, grown in Washington State, boast alpha acid nearly double that of Cascade—think lemonflavored American ales, stouts, blondes, and wheat ales.

If you’re curious about brewing your own craft beer at home, you’re in luck. Home brewing was federally legalized in 1978, and there are brewing schools (both online and brick and mortar) across the country. Want another fun way to increase your understanding of home brewing? Gather with like-minded people for annual events through organizations like The American Homebrewers Association. You could also participate in home brew expos, submitting your best craft recipe in a competition. Brewing at home can be time-consuming and labor-intensive, since beer takes about four weeks to make. This year, home brew machines that are sort of like a Keurig coffee maker mix the ingredients for you at the push of a button. If you enjoy the process, start with a home brew kit. Be sure to read the package for additional items you might need to buy. Musthave supplies include a kettle, a primary fermenter bucket or carboy, a secondary fermenter, cleaning tools, bottles and bottle-capper, siphon, stirring spoon, strainer, and airlock to release carbon dioxide during fermenting. When purchasing supplies and kits, consider starting small and adding additional supplies as needed. Gather up what you need and then jump in, creating everything from pale ale to stout. Although home-brewed beer lasts about 12 to 18 months, flavor and aroma are best somewhere around six months. The higher the alcohol content, the longer the beer lasts. After capping the bottles, store at fermentation temperature (68 to 72 degrees) for at least two weeks. Afterwards, store in a cool place away from direct light. Next time you browse the beer aisle at your favorite store, you’ll see stouts and porters, pale ale and brown ale, ambers, blondes, and reds—all part of the newest popular craft beers. Grab a specialty artisan beer or two, savor your newfound taste buds, and join the craft beer craze! Sources for this article included: webmd.com, homebrewacademy.com, theatlantic.com, and craftbeer.com. WE

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June 2019

A Woman’s Work

Children Are People, Too Staying Broadminded

By Sharon Knierim

Nothing seems more frustrating than when children do not follow through with their plans. This is frustrating even when the roadblock is because of outside influence or extenuating circumstances. As parents, guardians, or teachers, we need to take these “wrenches” into consideration before we jump to conclusions, write the kids out of our last will and testament, and condemn them to a life of doom. We often consider them to be lazy or people who are not serious-minded about making and completing plans. Wait a minute, though. When we are honest with ourselves, most of us will have to admit that, in our own pasts, we have had these very same experiences (or nearly the same).You know what I mean.You make elaborate plans and see to every last detail. Every consideration is taken. Whether the plan is for a simple picnic in the park or earning a doctoral degree, it is almost inevitable that something will go wrong and set us behind pace…or send us in a completely different direction. When bad luck or karma comes along, neither has much compassion for us and our plans. In other words, we just have to roll with the punches. Most importantly, it’s essential not to throw our

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hands up in the air and surrender. When dreams have become plans and plans have been born of hard work and tenacity, it is vital to bring those plans to life. There is an expression reminding us that nothing worthwhile is easy, and that little theory seems to have proven itself. You may remember the difficulties you encountered preparing for college or holding down that first real job while moving up the ladder. There are challenges in both situations, but it’s the ability to conquer those challenges that makes us feel successful and enthusiastic. Of course, we are not always successful. Even if we work hard to accomplish something important, we may sometimes face partial

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or complete failure. These are what we call “learning experiences.” Do we remember our shortcomings in more vivid detail than we do our heydays? It’s possible. It is easy for the older generation to feel disappointed and frustrated by what we often view as the inadequacy of younger folks. Let’s not be so quick to jump to such a judgmental conclusion. As in any other arena in life, there are probably elements that have kept the completion of even the most important plans at bay. These underlying and often unwelcome elements can be things as basic as a drastic change of weather or as heart-rending as a tragedy within their own circle or family. Before we pass judgment, we must consider what life was like when we were young and trying to make a mark on the world. Were our parents disappointed when we did not or could not meet their expectations? They might have been. If it is necessary for you to know what the breakdown in plans was, be thoughtful with your questions, and remember to offer suggestions and advice only if they are asked for. It’s only human to be non-receptive to advice when we are passing through a hard time. How many times have we heard our elders remind us what they would have done in their day? I am guilty of this high crime and am working very hard to shed this bad habit. Just like offering unsolicited advice, comparing someone’s current failure to your own successful experience, pointing out how easy things were to accomplish, is akin to rubbing salt into a wound and can breed resentment. Isn’t it tough to remain quiet and calm when we learn that someone we love, like a child or grandchild, is hurting, obsessing, or feeling hopeless? There usually is very little we can do but offer support and encouragement. Also, it never hurts to pray…a lot! Likewise, when those we are closest to are on a winning streak and everything is going to plan (or even better), be sure to take some personal time to share your joy and pride. Nobody ever gets tired of being complimented. Be a cheerleader! It is lots of fun. Do yourself a favor—encourage someone else, and you’ll both appreciate the good vibes. When someone realizes that somebody else cares, it makes life easier. Changes of plans or disappointments are easier to bear when there is love and support. If you have someone you care about who might be struggling with a disappointment or a failure of plans, take the time to stay connected. It’s well worth the effort. WE June 2019

Good Looks

It’s Summertime! Body Confidence at the Pool

By Loretta McCollum

The fragrances of Coppertone, coconut, and chlorine permeate the air, with a hint of baby oil and citronella mixed in. Beaches are crowded and pools are packed. Swimsuit season is upon us, my friends. Are you as trim, toned, and tightened as you would like to be…or are you still struggling with some stubborn areas? Sometimes, diet and exercise just don’t cut it, and you are left with fat deposits that won’t budge. In that case, you might consider a non-surgical procedure to help you tackle the trouble. Hot or cold, light or radio waves, specific targets or larger areas—there’s something for every problem spot. There are no major health risks or significant side effects associated with any of these procedures, but be sure to check with your doctor before undergoing any treatment. TightSculpting is an option to address fat deposits all over the body, including the back, waist, hips, belly, arms, legs, and even under the chin. TightSculpting treatments use a dual-wavelength laser to sculpt and tighten. The first laser heats the fat cells, stimulating metabolism. Next, a second laser heats the surface tissue, prompting new collagen production that improves skin elasticity. Treatments take 30 minutes, and most patients undergo 3–6 sessions for optimum results. Treated skin may be slightly red for a few days, but no downtime is required. The fat cells that have been destroyed will not return. Elasticity is retained for up to one year. Another device that uses heat to destroy fat cells is truSculpt

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3D. This method uses radiofrequency instead of lasers to heat the tissue. Studies have shown that some individuals experienced up to a 24 percent fat loss in just one truSculpt 3D treatment. It may be a particularly good option for areas with loose skin. Patients may feel a sensation of warmth during treatment. Drink plenty of fluids prior to treatment for optimal results. Thermage is a skin-tightening treatment that also uses radiofrequency to heat tissue. It can be used on most areas where there is loose skin, even on the eyelids. No more looking lopsided, with one eyelid drooping a little more than the other! Tighten up that skin with a single treatment of Thermage, and your eyelids will be symmetrical again for 12–24 months. EMSCULPT is the first technique to employ electromagnetic energy to tone muscle. The electromagnetic waves cause muscles to contract up to 20,000 times per minute, encouraging muscle growth

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and fat loss. After four 30-minute treatments, patients may gain an average of 16 percent muscle mass and experience a 19 percent reduction in their waistline. It’s like a workout without the workout. Results can be permanent if exercise and proper diet are maintained. EMSCULPT is best for people who are close to their ideal weight but want to look more defined. You should avoid this treatment if your body contains metal, such as pacemakers or support rods. Lipo-Light uses LED light therapy to stimulate fat cells into releasing the fat into the body, where it is burned for energy or eliminated naturally. This method is great for the waist, hips, thighs, and upper arms. It also involves physical exercise in order to maintain results. Treatments last about 20 minutes, followed by 10 minutes of exercise. It’s possible to lose a couple of inches in just one treatment! Results are long term, but be aware that exercise is key to lasting results. Lipo-Light also boots collagen production, helping skin remain elastic. Burning fat isn’t the only way to lose it—there’s also freezing fat with technology like CoolSculpting or CryoSkin. CoolSculpting freezes and destroys fat cells, which are then naturally eliminated by the body. A small vacuum device sucks the skin into an applicator that freezes the fat cells. Treatments take about an hour, and patients report an average 20 percent loss of fat cells. CryoSkin is a body contouring process that originated in Paris. Like CoolSculpting, CryoSkin slimming treatments freeze fat cells. CryoSkin is great for love handles, thighs, and arms. It improves circulation and boosts collagen production, breaking down fat. CryoSkin treatments last about 20 minutes, and results are visible immediately. The number of treatments depends on the results you desire. Maintenance treatments are performed every six months. CryoSkin 3.0 is the latest version. It employs different settings for men and women and is more body-type specific. If you have diabetes, are pregnant, or have poor circulation, CryoSkin is not the option for you. Swimsuit season is upon us! If you haven’t achieved the results you want with diet and exercise, consider one of these procedures to finish the job. Consult an aesthetician or cosmetic surgeon to find out which option is best for you. Sources for this article included: medicalnewstoday.com, americanboardcosmeticsurgery.org, cryoskin.co, and coolsculpting.com. WE

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Interiors by Design

Window Treatments Form, Function, and Fun

By Robyn V. Powell

A well-chosen window treatment does more than just dress and soften a room—it can provide everything from privacy and sun management to protection of your furnishings and a boost to energy efficiency. The secret to a well-dressed window is to find the right balance between form and function. Whether you’re looking primarily for style, privacy, or light control, there’s a nearly unlimited selection of blinds, shades, and draperies to suit every style and purpose. With so many options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed! Eliminate the stress by asking yourself a few questions first to narrow your focus and make the right choices to enhance your rooms and fit your budget. When determining the ideal window treatments for a room, there are several factors to consider. Start with the room’s core function. If, for example, you are preparing a nursery, you may want blackout shades to encourage daytime napping. If reducing energy costs is a priority, solar cellular “honeycomb” shades, made of pleated tailored chambers that trap air and provide insulation, can save you up to 20 percent on your energy bill. When it comes to window treatment style trends, clean and simple leads the way. Gone are the heavy and ornate draperies of the past. Designers are highlighting natural materials, such as wood and linen, and pairing shades or blinds with simple side panels to add just the right pop of color and texture. Tailored Roman shades

Designing Spaces that Fit Your Personality and Style! Specializing in Custom Interior Design

are extremely popular right now, as are roller shades, especially in natural woven fibers like bamboo. Both types complement modern interiors and are available in top-down/bottom-up style to maintain privacy while letting in natural light. They come in all types of fabrics and patterns. Classic plantation shutters lend elegance as well as climate and light control. A wall of windows outfitted in shutters gives off a fresh, clean, unfussy vibe. Available in wood or faux wood options, shutters can be placed in every room in a home. Composite shutters are a great choice for bathrooms, as they resist moisture, staining, and warping. Blinds remain popular and are available in wood, faux wood, and vinyl. Blinds can be vertical, horizontal, cordless, and even motorized. Choose wider slats—2.5 inches or more—rather than mini-blinds. Wider slats offer better viewing and are easier to clean. Consider natural and organic elements like woven, matchstick, or weathered ›››

Designer textures C O L L E C T I O N

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wood blinds, all of which are lovely as standalone treatments. For privacy or light control, add lining or neutral linen panels to maintain a timeless feel. The perfect window treatments do more than just control outside lighting and privacy. They transform the mood and feeling of each room through color, style, and light control. Once you’ve decided on the type of window treatment you want, use color and texture to pull the room together. This year, we’re seeing luxe jewel tones in deep blue, green, and red paired with velvet and silk fabrics to create instant opulence. Alternatively, all-white window treatments open up a room for a lighter, airier feeling and bring a fresh energy into your space. Natural browns create a warm, welcoming feeling and offer an invitation to relax. Soft blue is known for its calming effect and is a great color choice for a home office or a bedroom. All that said, choosing the right color to change the mood or lighting of a room is not as simple as it sounds. It requires knowledge and planning. Working with an interior designer on window treatments can be a very smart investment. Window hardware adds another layer of design. This year, we’re seeing lots of acrylic finials, tiebacks, and rods. Metal is also popular and is in keeping with a simple, more streamlined look to window treatments. As home automation becomes increasingly popular, consider integrating technology in your choice of window treatments. Imagine being able to open or close your blinds while sitting in another room or before you even arrive home. High-tech touches like automation and motorization are on the rise because of their convenience and safety features. Blinds can be controlled via smartphone apps or voiceactivated home assistants, and shades can be programmed to close when the thermostat reaches a certain temperature. Cordless blinds and shades are becoming the standard, as cords pose a hazard to children and pets. If it’s been a while since you’ve updated your window coverings, consider making this excellent investment. The window treatment options of 2019 offer so many possibilities! When choosing window treatments, consider quality, durability, and style. Most importantly, go with something you love. You will be looking at it every day—make sure it’s something that you will enjoy! Sources for this article included: consumerreports.org, consumersadvocate.org, and windowcoverings.org. WE

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

#familyiswhy June 2019

Fresh Concept

Laser Eye Care Finding Help for Aging Eyes By Jackie Weiss

Of our five senses, vision is truly one of the most precious. Yet, as we age, our eyes can undergo changes that diminish that gift. That’s the bad news. The good news is that modern technology has brought us laser eye care, which can simply and safely treat many troublesome eye conditions, including near-sightedness, glaucoma, cataracts, and detached retinas. Eye laser surgeries are on the rise, and one of the most popular is LASIK. This procedure can correct the poor vision associated with near-sightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. LASIK stands for “laserassisted in situ keratomileusis.” That’s a mouthful, but the treatment is fairly simple and is generally quite successful. As many as 10 million Americans have undergone LASIK surgery since it was introduced over 20 years ago, and the majority no longer need to wear glasses or contact lenses. The surgery takes about 30 minutes and is generally done in an eye clinic. A special laser is used to cut flaps on each eye so the surgeon can access the cornea and alter its shape by removing a small amount of tissue. The goal is to create the correct refraction of the light that enters your eyes. With perfect vision, these rays are bent so they focus properly on the retina. However, when the light is refracted at a different angle, the rays are unable to contact the retina correctly. Altering the shape of the cornea allows for proper refraction. When the surgery is completed, the flaps are placed back on the eyes, and no stitches are needed for healing. Patients may experience slight discomfort after the surgery, such as a burning or itchiness in the eyes, but medication and eye drops can ease these irritations. Vision may be blurry for a short time. It can take up to a couple of months for the eyes to heal completely and the new level of vision to become stable. This could be as high as 20/25 or better. As with any other eye surgery, some follow-up visits are required, and patients should wait several weeks before participating in contact sports or swimming. There can be short-term risks arising from the surgery, such as dry eyes, but these usually resolve themselves in a few months. Permanent risks are rare, as is needing additional treatment for under- or over-correction or for seeing halos around lights. Laser surgery is also used now to treat glaucoma, a leading cause of blindness for those over the age of 60 years. Glaucoma generally occurs when fluid builds up in the eye and causes excessive pressure within the eye, which harms the optic nerve. In acute angle-closure glaucoma, the intraocular pressure (IOP) can rise rapidly to a critical level, causing symptoms such as severe pain, headaches, nausea, and blurred vision. However, in most cases, glaucoma develops slowly and without any warning signs. This is one reason that annual comprehensive eye examinations are so important.

There are several different kinds of laser surgery used for glaucoma, including argon laser trabeculoplasty (ALT) and the newer selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT), which uses a lower level of laser beam. Because SLT is milder, it can be repeated on a patient, if needed. The type of laser surgery recommended depends on the kind of glaucoma the patient has and the extent to which the condition has progressed. In all of the surgeries, the goal is to increase the drainage of fluids so pressure inside the eye can be relieved. Whichever surgical method is used, there is little or no pain. There may be a slight burning sensation after surgery, but most patients will find that the discomfort is minimal and the recovery is quick. Patients can return to their regular schedules the very next day. Medication is usually needed after glaucoma surgery to maintain the proper eye pressure. In some patients, the results are not permanent. Factors such as the type of glaucoma and the patient’s age, race, and other medical needs may mean that the procedure has to be repeated. For reasons that are still unknown, African Americans are generally more at risk when it comes to glaucoma. Like any surgical procedure, laser surgery for glaucoma comes with risks. For some individuals, the eye pressure rises rather than decreases after surgery, though this is usually temporary. There is also a small risk of cataracts developing after these surgeries; however, the importance of treating the glaucoma and preventing blindness is far more significant than any surgical risk. Cataracts are another eye disease that is usually caused by age. By the time many people reach 65 years, the lenses of their eyes have hardened and become cloudy, causing focusing problems. Cataracts are very

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common—at least one in three Americans needs surgery at some point to replace a damaged lens. Over 1.5 million cataract surgeries are performed each year in the United States. The process involves making incisions on the lens capsule to reach the cataract, break it into tiny pieces for removal, and implant an artificial lens. In traditional cataract surgery, many of the steps are done manually by the surgeon, and ultrasonography is used to break up the cataracts. With laser surgery, 3-D imaging provides the surgeon with a detailed map of the eye, which can allow for more precise cuts. In addition, the laser uses less energy than ultrasonography does in breaking up the cataract. This decreases the risk of swelling in the cornea, helping the eye to heal faster. If there are cataracts in both eyes, the surgeries are done separately, often a week or two apart. The surgery itself is brief, but a patient will be at the clinic for several hours to allow for the eye to be dilated and numbed with anesthetic. Patients are often given sedatives to help them relax before the procedure. Cataract surgery has an excellent success rate—as high as 90 percent. Complications are uncommon. Patients should expect to have blurred vision for a day or two after surgery, although some people do not. Patients should avoid lifting heavy objects or participating in strenuous exercise for one week. Some follow-up care is required; eye drops or other medications are usually given to prevent infection and inflammation. Most people will still need to wear eyeglasses at least part of the time following the surgery, though some may be candidates for multifocal or monovision lenses that can eliminate this need. While not as common as cataracts, a detached retina is a serious condition that is often attributed to aging. As we grow older, the

gel-like substance inside the eye (called the vitreous fluid), can decrease or become more fluid. This can cause a tear in the retina, leading it to separate from the tissue that provides its needed oxygen and nourishment. A detached retina can happen gradually or suddenly. There is no pain associated with the condition, but there are several warning signs, such as the appearance of floaters across the eye, flashes of light, and blurred or diminished vision. Some people experience a curtain-like shadow falling across their eyesight. It is crucial that anyone experiencing these symptoms contact an eye specialist immediately. A detached retina, left untreated, can lead to blindness. Surgery is required for a detached retina in order to save the eyesight. There are several options, including the use of a laser, which can repair the tear by burning around it and creating scar tissue. This helps to fuse the separated tissues together again. There is some discomfort after detached retina surgery, but medication can help. Patients usually wear an eye patch for protection for a while. A new prescription for eyeglasses is usually necessary. The success rate for detached retina surgery is around 90 percent. There are some risks, such as bleeding, infection, cataracts, and double vision, but these risks are considered small compared to the likelihood of becoming blind without treatment. The gift of vision is too important to ignore. To ensure that your eyesight remains healthy and clear, be sure you are having regular checkups with eyecare professionals. You want to stay abreast of any changes and of the latest treatments so you can continue to enjoy the most delightful of our senses—sight! Sources for this article included: bausch.com, glaucoma.org, mayoclinic.org, allaboutvision.com, and umkelloggeye.org. WE

A Few Words From One of Our Advertisers: “In today’s healthcare world, patients are more engaged and involved in selecting their healthcare providers. Women tend to be the navigator whether that is for their own healthcare or that of a family member. We selected Women’s Edition Magazine as a means to communicate that we would be honored to be their preferred provider of orthopaedic care.“ — Heidi Hergott, Front Office Manager, Lincoln Orthopaedic Center

June 2019

Out and About

Budget Blinds of Lincoln

The Best Blinds at the Best Price

By Kit Boesch

Can you name a company that provides its customers with the best product, the best price, and a five-year, no-questions-asked guarantee? I can! It’s Lincoln’s very own Budget Blinds—the number one provider of window coverings in North America. Budget Blinds has offices in Lincoln and Omaha and also serves 10 of Lincoln’s surrounding smaller communities. Much of the success at Budget Blinds of Lincoln lies with the energy and experience of its owner, John MacKenzie. John spent his early working years in the restaurant industry, where he learned a great deal about competitive business models. He believes that success is built by creating a sound business model, where you keep customers happy by turning their ideas into reality. How does he do it? First, he puts together a great team like the one Budget Blinds has in Lincoln. Then, the team takes the time to really get to know their customers. To match you with the best window coverings for your home, the consultants at Budget Blinds of Lincoln want to understand your lifestyle, how you prefer to spend your time, what in particular you are looking for, and what your budget

is. Your consultant will become your go-to person for the entire project and beyond. Successful companies in any industry today rely on at least three things: excellent Owner, John MacKenzie products, competitive pricing, and a sound warranty. Budget Blinds of Lincoln succeeds in all these areas! In addition to the popular window coverings requested by most customers, they can provide products to meet unique needs, like enhanced safety, energysavings, temperature control, child safety products for children’s rooms, and eco-friendly patio blinds. Budget Blinds of Lincoln is backed by their home company, Home Franchise Concepts (HFC), which

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has 1,163 franchises in the United States and Canada. This allows them to get the best prices anywhere in the country without sacrificing the benefits of local service. Finally, there’s that incredible warranty! They will guarantee repair or replacement at the customer’s request for up to five years after installation, with no questions asked. If your blinds were warped by weather, you’re covered. It may be the best guarantee you’ve ever heard! Another key factor in customer retention is good customer service, and that does not happen by accident. At the top corporate level, Home Franchise Concepts does very sophisticated advertising in print and online. At the local level, John relies on something he learned in the restaurant industry— if you have great staff members and a great relationship with your customers, word of mouth becomes a great asset. Budget Blinds of Lincoln has a 40 percent repeat customer rate! Giving back to the community is a theme that John and his employees feel strongly about. At a national and international level, Home Franchise Concepts works with the Wounded Warrior Project. Here in Lincoln (and in Omaha), John says that Budget Blinds likes to support local non-profits like Court-Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). CASA is a national association that supports and promotes

court-appointed advocates for abused or neglected children. These specially trained advocates provide a voice for these children in the court system, to look out for their best interests and usher them toward safe and healthy environments in permanent homes. When it comes to raising money for CASA, John doesn’t just talk the talk. He walks the walk…or should I say, he climbs the peaks! In 2010, he climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro (the highest free-standing mountain in the world), taking pledges to raise money for CASA. In addition to working and giving back to his community, John greatly enjoys spending time with his family. He is very proud of his twin boys, who are both entering the world of engineering, and his wonderful wife, who has always supported his dreams. If you are considering new custom blinds for your home, visit Budget Blinds of Lincoln. There, you’ll meet a consultant who listens to your vision, can provide any number of outstanding suggestions, and will stick with you from start to finish. Take advantage of the great customer service, the innovative products, the competitive prices, and the best guarantee in the industry. You’ll get all this at Budget Blinds of Lincoln! To get started, call 402-436-2190 or visit budgetblinds.com/lincoln. Budget Blinds of Lincoln is located at 8444 Executive Woods Drive. WE

They will guarantee repair or replacement at the customer’s request for up to five years after installation, with no questions asked. If your blinds were warped by weather, you’re covered. It may be the best guarantee you’ve ever heard!

June 2019

To Your Good Health

Vaginal Rejuvenation Get Back to Your Old Self!

By Leslie Byrne

When women hear the phrase “vaginal rejuvenation,” they may not have a clear understanding of what it is. That’s a real shame, since the benefits of these relatively simple procedures can be life-changing! Vaginal rejuvenation includes many procedures that are performed to correct problems in the vaginal area. Such problems might include urinary incontinence, vaginal laxity, vaginal dryness, or cosmetic issues. Some of these procedures are surgical and some of them are not, but all of them can provide relief from symptoms that women have been suffering in silence, believing that nothing could be done. Many of the non-surgical procedures are painless, require little to no downtime, and offer immediate results! Let’s take a look at some of the more common vaginal rejuvenation procedures. The Juliet laser is a hormone-free laser procedure to help resolve problems that commonly occur after childbirth or menopause. The first laser pass encourages collagen production to help with elasticity and stimulate natural lubrication. The second laser pass stimulates the body to create new blood vessels and nerves. The treatment gives the body a boost to rejuvenate itself. The O Shot is a procedure that requires no recovery time and offers immediate improvements to sexual satisfaction (yes, the “O” stands for “orgasm”). It is a 20-minute, non-surgical procedure. First, the patient’s blood is drawn. That blood is

then used to create a platelet-rich plasma that is injected into the patient’s genital area to enhance sexual satisfaction. This procedure rejuvenates the vagina and also treats incontinence, dryness, and elasticity. The results last at least 18 months and up to three years. ThermiVa uses heat therapy delivered through radiofrequency waves and a laser device that is inserted into the vagina. The tissues are heated, which stimulates the body’s natural collagen production, increasing elasticity. The procedure is non-surgical and non-invasive. The results generally last up to a full year. FemiLift is a non-surgical and swift solution for common feminine issues including stress urinary incontinence, tightness, and dryness. A laser instrument is used to target specific areas and can also be used for some resurfacing procedures on the genital area. Most women who opt for this procedure will need

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three treatments over three months. Each treatment lasts only a few minutes and should provide immediate results. There usually is a follow-up treatment after one year, but the overall improvement should last 1 to 3 years. Vaginoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to resolve extreme vaginal laxity by removing excess skin and reconstructing and tightening the vaginal wall. It can be done under local anesthesia, but many women choose general anesthesia during the procedure. There is preparation work that needs to be done before the procedure, and the recovery time is up to eight weeks. Patients generally experience pain or discomfort for the first couple of weeks after vaginoplasty, during the most active period of healing. This procedure tends to cost several thousand dollars. Because it is a surgical procedure, it comes with the general risks of surgery and anesthesia. Many vaginal rejuvenation procedures are performed by board-certified plastic surgeons, though some gynecologists and other surgeons specialize in vaginal surgery and may offer these procedures. If you are considering a surgical or non-surgical procedure for vaginal rejuvenation, start by talking to your gynecologist. Share any issues that you are having with intimacy, bladder control, or pelvic pain. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be embarrassed about this conversation! Your gynecologist has talked to many patients about these issues and will be happy to help you find a provider who can address your symptoms. Ask plenty of questions to make sure you fully understand the risks and expected results of any procedure you are considering. Be sure that your provider is experienced in the type of procedure you desire. Make sure that your provider is aware of any surgeries or procedures that you have already had done in the vaginal area. There are certain symptoms that women have been putting up with for generations, but we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to put up with them any longer! Vaginal rejuvenation procedures can help with everything from incontinence to elasticity to uncomfortable dryness. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t dismiss them as indulgence! Talk to your gynecologist today about the health benefits you deserve. Sources for this article included: restorativehealth.org, thermiva.com, femilift.com, plasticsurgery.org, and my.clevelandclinic.org. WE June 2019

Healthy Living

Nebraska Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine A Step in the Right Direction

By Lisa Lightner

Staying active is the key to healthy living, and our bones and joints play a big role in making that happen. Orthopaedics (also spelled “orthopedics”) is the branch of medicine that addresses deformities in bones or muscles. At Nebraska Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine, a team of 15 board-certified physicians offers a full-body range of orthopaedic care, from the shoulder, neck, spine, hand, wrist, knee and hip, down to the base of it all—the foot and ankle. With a combined 33 bones, 36 joints, and more than a hundred muscles, tendons, and ligaments, the human foot and ankle form the foundation on which our mobility depends. At the recommended 10,000 steps daily (that’s roughly five miles), it is estimated that the average person will travel over 100,000 miles on foot in a lifetime. We add even more steps while we’re participating in a wide range of sports activities, making foot and ankle health even more important to overall health and quality of life. Dr. Scott Swanson (a marathon runner in all 50 states) and Dr. Michael Clare (a four-year letterman in college football) have more than three decades of combined experience in foot and ankle care. In addition to surgical procedures, Dr. Swanson specializes in general orthopaedics, trauma surgery, and biologic and regenerative orthopaedic medicine. Dr. Clare specializes in lower extremity trauma/reconstruction and ankle replacement. Some of the more common conditions they see include arthritis, sports injuries, bunions, hammertoe, Achilles tendon pain, heel pain, fractures, and flat foot deformities. Inspired during his residency at UNMC with surgeon Dr. Timothy Fitzgibbons, Dr. Clare saw the foot and ankle as the final frontier—an area with many unanswered questions. “The foot,” he explains, “is a three-dimensional, biomechanically complex structure that can have an effect on other joints, such as knee and hip function and vice versa, as muscles interact with every step.” Walking and running, two of the most popular forms of exercise, can be stressful on the foot and ankle. This is particularly true of running because of the rapid changes of direction and the wear and tear of long distances. Like any other sports activity, stretching and a good pair of shoes are key. The best shoes depend on what activities you are doing as well as the shape of your feet. “There is a spectrum of normal,” says Dr. Clare, “from flat to high arches and somewhere in the middle.” For people who stand for hours a day and suffer from sore feet, properly fitted shoes (not too tight or too loose) are essential. Padding also helps with pain and discomfort; shoes can include inserts, if needed. When it comes to shoes, it’s worth noting that high heels are not a great choice and are best

saved for occasional use. Cramps, numbness, tingling, swelling, sprains, and the sound of joints “cracking” are just a few of the more common ailments that many of us face. Foot cramps are related to flexibility, so stretching frequently (especially after activity) and drinking water to stay hydrated are good habits. Numbness and tingling are most often non-systemic, with no known cause, but these symptoms can also be associated with arthritis and diabetes. Swelling can be the result of normal activity, heat, or medication, but swelling can also indicate the presence of diabetes or other health issues. If a likely sprain is affecting your mobility, see a doctor. Sprains are generally treated with ice, ibuprofen, and compression to reduce swelling. That cracking in your ankles and knees? The sound you hear is probably a tendon snapping over a bone. This is common with age and generally no cause for concern. Preventative joint care starts the same way that overall health care starts—with a healthy weight and a diet that contains essential vitamins and minerals. Calcium is important for healthy bones, but vitamin D is just as important, and it’s one of the most common vitamin deficiencies. For those not getting enough nutrients from food or the recommended 30 minutes of direct sunlight a day, supplements can help meet daily requirements. Nebraska Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine serves the University of Nebraska as official Husker team physicians and offers a comprehensive Sports Medicine and Outreach Program for youth sports across southeast Nebraska. The physicians also partner with the Nebraska Sports Concussion Network and the American Orthopaedic Society’s STOP Sports Injuries program. In addition to outreach clinics in Lincoln and southeastern Nebraska, Nebraska Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine is located in the CHI St. Elizabeth Medical Building at 575 South 70th Street, Suite 200. There’s dedicated parking on the second floor of the garage. Visit nebraskaortho.com for educational 3-D videos on foot and ankle procedures, a patient portal, online scheduling, and more. To reach the main office, call 402-488-3322 (#2). WE

Dr. Michael Clare

www.womensedition.com

June 2019

Home Works

The Best Vacuum for You Take Your Floors From Clean to Pristine!

By Anne Yankus

One of the most unsung heroes of our home appliances is the vacuum cleaner. While we often think of it as a modern invention, the vacuum cleaner has been around in some form or another for almost 200 years. The earliest vacuums were powered by bellows or gasoline…and were too large to fit in most living rooms. The first models that are closer to the modern iteration of the vacuum came around at the beginning of the 19th century but didn’t see widespread use in middle-class homes until after World War II. Now, of course, consumers in all walks of life have access to many different vacuum models, in all sizes and with a wide range of functionality. The most common models out today are upright vacuum cleaners, stick vacuums, canister models, and robot vacuums. Upright vacuums are the models that most likely come to mind when you think of a vacuum cleaner. Because upright vacuums have heavy canisters, they can be a little difficult to maneuver, but they have many other benefits. Uprights are usually cheaper than other models, and without any loss in performance. For that matter, uprights are also known for their one-pass cleaning. While they may not be great around corners, upright vacuums don’t need to go over the same spot multiple times. Upright models also have a motorized brush, which can come in enormously handy for deep cleaning plush carpets and cleaning up after shedding pets. Some top brands of upright models are Shark, Dyson, and Bissell. Stick vacuums are newer to the market and often have the benefit of being cordless. They’re usually constructed with a lightweight canister built into the handle and have the benefit of being maneuverable and convenient for quick cleanups. On the other hand, they don’t usually have the capacity for a lot of dirt and may have to be emptied more often than other models. Cordless models will, of course, also have the downside of needing to be regularly recharged. Newer stick models have the benefit of a rotating brush at the base, but older models may not. Shark and Dyson make great stick vacuum models, but you can also find one of the top 2019 models through Tineco. Canister vacuums have been around for a while. Since they don’t have the motor and canister on the same part of the machine as the nozzle, they often have the benefit of having a larger motor and more suction power. Canister models are also often lighter, quieter, and have a more maneuverable nozzle than

uprights. If you had to pick between the two, however, the canisters have the larger advantage on bare floors (as opposed to upright units on thick carpets). When looking for a canister vacuum, some top brands to keep in mind are Soniclean, Miele, and Ovente. One thing that all of these vacuum models have in common is that they require you to actually take time out of your day to vacuum your home. Fortunately, robot vacuums are here to end this time-consuming task. Robot vacuums have the clear “set it and forget it” advantage—in a low-traffic environment, you could go for months without even thinking about cleaning the floor! As they are completely motorized and often programable, robot vacuums can be quite expensive. Some of the higher-end robot vacuums have the benefit of a dirt disposal base, so you don’t even have to remember to empty it regularly. Most also have an array of sensors and smart tech that allow them to remember the layout of your house or even a tie-in app that allows you to program them on the fly from your phone. On the downside, lower-end robot models don’t always have the best capability with pet hair or large capacity messes. However, the original Roomba does have pricier models with more robust brushes and motors designed specifically for picking up pet hair. Robot vacuums have batteries that can last up to two hours per use and up to four years before a replacement is needed. With so many outstanding models on the market today, it’s hard to make a bad choice in vacuums. To get the most bang for your buck, though, choose the one that will best suit your home and cleaning needs. This article should help you narrow down your choices when you hit your favorite appliance store. Spring cleaning may be over, but that’s no excuse not to keep your floors clean and tidy all summer long! Sources for this story include vacuumcleanerhistory.com, primereviews.org, tastefulspace.com, canistervacuumcleaner. net, and irobot.com. WE

www.womensedition.com

FATHER’S DAY Sale Begins June 7th—15th

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5500 Old Cheney Road, Suite 16, Lincoln NE Mon–Fri 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. | Sat 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. | 402-421-7575 | capitalpatio.com

June 2019

The Market Place Partners ’N Hair Walk-ins are always welcome at Partners ‘ N Hair. You are in good hands with the licensed, fun, confident, and experienced stylists. Whether you need a simple cut or you want an elaborate new style, we can help you decide just the look you are trying to achieve. You can count on service with a smile and consistently great looking results when you choose Partners ‘N Hair for your hair cutting and styling needs. Look great, feel amazing. Stop in or call 402-483-7376 to make an appointment. Find Partners ‘ N Hair at the corner of 70th and Van Dorn.

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Partners 'N Hair is a full service salon that has been in business in the Lincoln area for over 25 years. Our stylist are educated in all areas of hair care. We can't wait to meet you!

Partners 'N Hair Walk-Ins Always Welcomed Call 402-483-7376 or stop today! 6940 Van Dorn St., Lincoln

Lincoln Vision Center The doctors at Lincoln Vision Center and Wahoo Vision Center provide vision care for all ages, from infants to senior citizens. Our personalized professional service is provided using the latest in eye care technology. Everyone including children is at risk for eye damage from the harmful rays from the sun that can lead to vision loss. Protecting your eyes and your families eyes are important! Our professional opticians provide the finest eyewear materials and serve with personal attention for proper eyeglass fitting and adjustment. We provide prescription and designer eyewear and sunglasses as well as a special collection of kids eyewear. Lincoln Vision Center at 402-466-0165 and Wahoo Vision Center at 402-443-3168. Rotary International Rotary is a global network of 1.2 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change—across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves. Rotary members believe that we have a shared responsibility to take action on our world’s most persistent issues. Our 35,000+ clubs work together to: promote peace; fight disease; provide clean water, sanitation, and hygiene; save mothers and children; support education; and grow local economies. With your help, we can make lives better in your community and around the world. Visit www.rotary.org/donate to find out a variety of secure ways to donate.

Eyecare for your Whole Family

Accepting New Patients!

Schedule an appointment today at 402.466.0165

651 N. 66th St., Lincoln NE www.lincolnvisioncenter.com 30

www.womensedition.com

Nebraska Mental Health Centers Nebraska Mental Health Centers (NMHC) is a family-owned and operated mental health clinic for people from all walks of life. NMHC provides psychological care for children, adolescents, adults, and families through individualized counseling, family counseling, and psychological assessment. We have offices in Lincoln, Beatrice, and Fremont. NMHC offers comprehensive mental health care and can coordinate care with physicians, caregivers, and family members. NMHC is sensitive and committed to the importance of diversity, striving to reflect diversity in our staff as well as individuals served. Please call 402-483-6990 to set up an initial appointment. Franklin’s Treasures and Treats June is Dad’s month! We have fun items for Father’s Day, including lighters that look like fishing poles, beard grooming kit, and fun, crazy socks! School is out for the summer and we have plenty of fun things to keep the kids busy all summer—toys, games, puzzles, candy, and more! Wedding season is upon us! We have a fun selection of perfect wedding gifts, including picture frames, recipe books, and decor. If you are looking for a new project for the summer, look no further than our selection of scrapbook papers and embellishments! Stop in today!

Mental Health Services for the whole family. Start your journey to a healthier you.

We provide mental health care for children, adolescents, adults and families through individual, marital, and family therapy. Mental Health Care | Psycho-legal Services Services for Seniors | Psychological Assessments

Kitchen Tune-Up Kitchen remodeling is often the most expensive home improvement project, but what if you could get an updated look at a fraction of the cost? You can, with Kitchen Tune-Up. They specialize in turning outdated kitchens into a beautifully updated part of your home. Redooring your cabinets is an affordable option and can save you up to 75% of the cost to replace them with new cabinets. If you want to update the style or are simply looking to refresh your cabinets, cabinet redooring may work for you. We have unlimited number of door styles, sizes, woods, and colors to choose from. We also offer a wide variety of new pulls and knobs to complete the new look. It’s a quick and easy way to update your kitchen.

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June 2019

Income Outcome

Get Rid of the Critter! The Power of Self-Talk “The only person who can pull me down is myself, and I’m not going to let myself pull me down anymore.” — C. JoyBell C. What a great quote. It kind of sums it all up, doesn’t it? Each day, we get up, go to work, chat with coworkers, work hard at our jobs, and listen to our friends. We finish our day feeling one of two ways: like someone has beat us up or reflecting upon the great day we had. Hmmm. So, what determines what kind of day we had, what kind of feeling we take with us to sleep? We do, of course. “Winning doesn’t always mean being first. Winning means you’re doing better than you’ve done before.”—Bonnie Blair If you are like most people, you are your own worst critic. It’s not your boss, not your spouse, not your kids or your parents—it’s you. Most of us have a nasty critter in our heads that nags at us about how we didn’t do this right, we didn’t finish this project, we didn’t accomplish this goal today. We were bad. We failed. Should we listen to this critical voice? Nope. Not anymore. “Remember, you have been criticizing yourself for years, and it hasn’t worked. Try approving of yourself and see what happens.” —Louise L. Hay, You Can Heal Your Life

By Janet Van deWalle

What would happen if we put a muzzle on that nagging voice? How much better would we feel if we chose to talk ourselves up instead of pushing ourselves down? “Believe it can be done. When you believe something can be done, really believe, your mind will find the ways to do it. Believing a solution paves the way to solution.” —David J. Schwartz, The Magic of Thinking Big The realization that beating up on ourselves hasn’t worked very well is an enlightening moment. Deciding to stop this habit will literally change our lives. Our self-talk is with us every waking hour of every single day of our lives. We can listen to positive videos, which definitely helps, but most of the time, it is up to us to stop the chatter. The best part? We do not need to get anyone’s permission but our own. “What do you mean, I have to wait for someone’s approval? I’m someone. I approve. So I give myself permission to move forward with my full support!” —Richelle E. Goodrich, Smile Anyway Let’s do it!

A Few Words From One Of Our Advertisers: “Advertising in Women’s Edition has brought our business many qualified and loyal clients throughout the years. The staff at Women’s Edition are professional women and I believe they truly want our business to continue growing in Lincoln and Omaha. The process of creating ads is simple and we are always satisfied with the finished product. Devan and I are often recognized by people who have seen our ads in Women’s Edition magazine. It has been a wise and beneficial investment of our marketing dollars.” —Jeff & Devan Martin

Lincoln Hypnosis Center and Nebraska Change Works 32

Kids Comments

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Forming Paternal Bonds Remembering Dad Father’s Day is a time to honor fathers and to celebrate paternal bonds. Father’s Day wasn’t celebrated in the United States outside of Catholic tradition until the early 20th century, when it was inaugurated as a civic celebration to complement Mother’s Day and similar celebrations honoring family members, such as Siblings Day and Grandparents Day. Father’s Day was not official until 1966, when President Lyndon B. Johnson issued a proclamation designating it on the third Sunday in June. It became a permanent national holiday in 1972, when signed into law by President Richard Nixon. I like the phrase “paternal bonds.” We don’t always get to bond with our fathers. My dad was gone a lot for his job. When my brothers and I were young, Daddy didn’t get home until after we were in bed, but he made a point to spend time with us on weekends. I fondly remember Daddy fixing a big breakfast of pancakes or bacon and eggs and having it ready when we came home from church. I recall Dad coming home after being gone all week, taking his stuff down the hall, and muttering some profanity under his breath. He turned, stuck his head around the corner, and said, sheepishly, “Sorry about that.” It was a gentler time then than now. When I was in high school and my brothers were in late grade school, our parents bought a house and moved one final time. Life for all of us became more permanent. While we still spent time

By Marge Shoemaker, BS, MS

together over the years on weekend outings, we now had a family meal nearly every night. Dad could get involved in our activities. In college, I would meet Daddy for lunch when I was downtown at the library or shopping. We spent the time talking about a lot of things in general. I miss that. I was just getting to know Dad as a person, not just as a parent, when he died. We had five short years of having him around a lot. The parent-child relationships we had were enhanced. Dad’s example taught us the benefits of hard work. (“Always do the best you can.”) He was stern, yet supportive. (“Next time, I know you’ll be more careful!”) He was generous but not extravagant. (“I’ll help you out if you’re sure it’s what you want.”) I learned years later how respected he was by coworkers and superiors alike. (“Your dad was one of the good guys!”) Dad taught me to respect others, no matter their station in life. (“People have feelings…treat them like you want to be treated.”) He was gentle, kind, compassionate, and understanding. It’s how he lived his life. Do you know your father…or father figure…as a person? Take the time. Get to know him as a person. Happy Father’s Day, Daddy! Happy Father’s Day to all fathers. 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

June 2019

Cuddly Critters

A Lot to Love About Cats The Benefits of Feline Friends By Brie Christensen

Cat owners across the nation can tell you that there’s much to love about their feline friends, but the benefits don’t end with companionship and entertainment. In fact, experts say that cats offer many health benefits to their owners. Researchers at the University of Minnesota have identified a link between cat ownership and a decreased risk of dying from heart attack or stroke. They say that this is likely due to the stress reduction that cat ownership often brings. The presence of a cat can help conquer loneliness. The act of petting a cat makes the human body release oxytocin, a hormone that plays an important role in social bonding. It’s also believed that these furry friends can prevent allergies later in life, if infants are exposed to cats. This is thought to be because the presence of cat dander gives a child’s immune system something to work on, helping it to develop in a natural manner. With so many breeds to choose from, there’s bound to be a cat for anyone. Of course, like all animals, each individual cat has its own personality. However, some breeds are known for certain characteristics that are important to consider when you’re choosing the right cat for your lifestyle. For example, the popular Abyssinian cat generally weighs between seven and 10 pounds, is highly intelligent, and is incredibly active (not just a lap cat). This cat has broad ears and almond-shaped eyes, with a slimmer build. Owners need to be aware that this cat may have a higher risk of early periodontal disease and pyruvate kinase deficiency (a hereditary condition that causes anemia). The American shorthair, on the other hand, is known for being very healthy. This breed is said to love hunting and learning tricks. This is a visually diverse breed with an array of colors and patterns. The Birman cat is popular because of its social and playful personality. This breed has striking blue eyes and a longer coat that doesn’t mat. Another popular breed, the Maine coon, is noted for its gentle and friendly nature, which makes it a great choice for households with kids. Maine coons tend to live about 12 years. Be aware that spinal muscular atrophy is a possible health risk for this cat compared to other breeds; they are also prone to developing the heart condition hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Some breeds are hypoallergenic, allowing even those with cat allergies to become happy cat parents. Such breeds include Balinese-Javanese, Cornish rex, Devon rex, Siberian, and Sphynx. While disposition is somewhat dependent on a cat’s breed, most cats become socialized through early exposure to humans. That is, if a feline experiences human contact within its first several weeks of age, it is more likely to be friendly and social. Cats that

begin their lives in the wild (known as feral cats) can sometimes be domesticated, but it takes a lot of time and patience to turn a feral cat into a house cat. As with any pet, it’s possible to choose one that is a better fit for your household. Prior to adopting a cat, it’s important to consider a few points like family makeup, lifestyle, and living arrangements. If you live in a small space, an older cat or a less rambunctious breed might be a good choice. If you have young children, choose a breed that is likely to enjoy having a playmate, like Siamese or Birman. If you have your heart set on a kitten, keep in mind that it may need to be litter-trained. An important lesson in training any animal is to reward good behavior and ignore bad behavior. Positivity is the most effective way to communicate with cats. Cats are definitely trainable… though whether you’re training them or they’re training you is up for debate. Almost everyone has an opinion on whether dogs or cats are more intelligent. The fact is, it’s not that simple. We tend to study intelligence from a human perspective and consider which animal is more willing and able to exhibit the behaviors that we want to see. In reality, both dogs and cats are like all other animals—each species has evolved to solve the problems most critical to its specific survival and reproduction. One thing that animal experts agree on is that felines offer more than just friendship to their owners. Once you find the right cat for your family, you’ll all be rewarded with fun, companionship, and lowered stress levels, all of which give you even more reason to adore your furry friends. Sources for this article included: purina.com, livescience. com, pbs.org, hillspet.com, news.nationalgeographic.com, and ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. WE

Focus on Finance

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The American Federal Reserve System A New Currency Is Born By George Morgan

When the American colonists defeated the British to end the Revolutionary War, the Americans broke off all ties with the British government. American leaders then assembled representatives from each of the colonies to draft documents on how the new government would be organized and operate. At this time, all of the major European countries had strong central banks. Some of the American representatives felt strongly that the bulk of the power should belong to the states, instead. There were others who felt equally strongly that the new nation needed a strong central government to provide for national defense and to regulate commerce. The divide between the states’ rights group and the central government group meant they could come to no consensus on a national bank, and the issue was left out the Constitution. At the beginning of our fledgling nation, therefore, all banks were chartered by their state of residence, and they were not allowed to do business beyond their state boundaries. An immediate issue for the new states was how to control the minting and distribution of money without a central bank. Initially, some commerce was conducted with gold coins. Soon, the state banks began to print their own money. This presented a number of problems. If you lived in Georgia and traveled to New York, you were likely carrying money minted by a Georgia bank. When you tried to make a purchase in New York, the local merchants would have no way of knowing if the Georgian money was real or how much it was worth in New York. Around the turn of the 19th century, Congress recognized that the reliance on state banks for the production of currency posed so many problems that they began an effort to form a national bank. This effort lasted for about a decade, until Andrew Jackson took over the White House. President Jackson was a staunch supporter of states’ rights, and he canceled the bank’s charter. For the rest of the 19th century, the economy suffered frequent financial crises. The way our money supply operated varied on a regular basis, including periods of greenbacks followed by a return to gold as the coin of the realm. During the first decade of the 20th century, our financial system suffered through a series of major downturns. The only thing that saved the system was a group of New York bankers, headed by J.P. Morgan, who put up their own money and brought the system back from the edge of disaster. J.P. Morgan died in 1913. In 1914, Congress created what we know today as the Federal Reserve (or just “the Fed”). Initially, its main function was as a distributor of currency to the commercial banks. Over time, it developed as the mechanism by which banks cleared checks. If you lived in Omaha and went to Boston and wrote a check, somehow that check had to get back to

your bank in Omaha to be paid. Over time, this function of the Fed increased dramatically in scale. In today’s electronic world, the Fed is doing less and less of this. In the future, it is probable that the use of checks will disappear altogether. In the 1950s, Congress passed legislation to expand the power and responsibility of the Federal Reserve. This legislation, which is still in effect today, states that it is the responsibility of the Federal Reserve to maintain inflation at a reasonable level while at the same time moving the nation toward full employment. This is a daunting task. To reduce inflation, you need to slow down the rate of economic activity…which can lead to a decrease in the number of jobs available. The directors of the Fed do a good job of making an honest effort to meet these goals, but their success rate is less than stellar. The Fed now consists of 12 regional banks located in major cities across the country. The president of each of these regional banks is a businessperson from that city and is selected by the local business community. Each of the banks has its own personality, and all of them have a research component in their organization. The nature of the research done by each of these banks varies from region to region; for example, those in the Midwest tend to focus on agriculture, while those farther east tend to focus on manufacturing. At the core of the Federal Reserve is a group called the Open Market Committee. This is the group responsible for making the Fed’s policy decisions. It is headed by the Chairperson of the Fed, who is appointed by the president and serves a four-year term. Editor’s Note: Professor Morgan has over 40 years’ experience in the investment field, both as a university professor and as a financial advisor. He currently serves on the faculty at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, where he directs a program designed to educate 401(k) plan participants on how to improve their investment strategy. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which investments may be appropriate for you, consult your financial advisor prior to investing. WE

June 2019

Positive Perspective

Good Morning! Choose How Your Day Begins Picture this: You and your mate are lying in bed, enjoying some coffee to get your day started. Somehow, your cup of coffee gets spilled all over the bed. You laugh, pull off the covers, and start the wash. Before you know it, the cat decides to have one of his crazy episodes. He jumps on the bed, proceeds to leap onto the nightstand, and knocks over the other cup of coffee…all over the wall, the floor, the stuff on the nightstand. You and your mate laugh, clean up the mess, and move forward. “If we couldn’t laugh, we would all go insane.” —Jimmy Buffet

By Janet Van deWalle

positive that we will be all day. This is a very special time for us to launch the energy for the day before us. We get to choose to set our own tone. When our day begins with challenges—spilled coffee, a broken dishwasher, a leak in the ceiling—we have to stand strong and decide that we are going to hold onto the positive feeling tone that we woke up with. What I have discovered about my days is that the morning truly sets the tone for how the day is going to evolve. Allowing the “stuff of life” to derail us is quite common. If we are tired, are not feeling 100 percent, or slept poorly, it’s easy to head down the path of frustration, irritation, and despair. Guess what? Life happens. We get to CHOOSE how we are going to respond.

Now, we all know that this could have gone in a totally different direction. One of you could have become angry, frustrated, or blameful. Worse yet, you BOTH could have gone down that path. We’ve all been there. “You’ve done it before, and you can do it now. See the positive possibilities. Redirect the substantial energy of your frustration and turn it into positive, effective, unstoppable determination.” —Ralph Marston

“Life is matter of choices, and every choice you make, makes you.” —John Maxwell Choosing a life in which we are deliberate creators, choosing laughter over anger, choosing smiles over scowls, will launch our days, months, and years into the life that we have contemplated and have imagined. The Universe knows what we want. The Universe has our backs, and that is all good. Very good.

I believe that when we wake up, we are at the purest and most

“If it feels good, it’s good.” —Abraham/Hicks

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OPEN MONDAY–SATURDAY FROM 9 to 6 1401 W. Bond Circle, Suite 8 in Lincoln (Located Near the Lincoln Airport off I-80 Exit 399) Call 402-474-0848 www.a1cng.com a1cabinetngranite@gmail.com