Women's Edition Omaha - August 2023

The Little Moments

As the summer winds down and kids head back to school, I hope you all have had a remarkable experience or two during these last couple of months. What do I mean by a remarkable experience? I define it as an experience that bring us joy, peace, and balance. Why do I call these experiences remarkable? I have found that in my circle of friends and family, these simple pleasures are often the most elusive moments in our lives. It’s as if we find ourselves running so fast through life that we don’t even take time to feel grateful at the end of the day.

The other night, I was sitting outside on our deck and looked up into the brilliant blue Nebraska sky. The temperature was about 76 degrees. Very slight wind. No humidity. It was a “Perfect Ten” evening in Omaha. (Can you believe it? In the middle of summer?) There were small, white, billowing clouds overhead. I put my head back, snapped a quick picture, and then just sat and watched them go by. It was truly one of the most remarkable experiences I’ve had all summer. I am so appreciative of those 20 minutes of pure bliss!

Finding joy in the little moments every day will make us feel blessed and fulfilled. Yes, I know that sometimes we feel so rushed that we can’t even stop to breathe. Just keep in mind that it doesn’t take a long time to cherish a remarkable moment. You don’t have to plan it. All you have to do is stop for a brief moment and match up to the joy that is all around us.

August is a big birthday month in my family. Happy birthday to my son, Adam, who turns 33. My granddaughter, McKenna, is 12 years old! My nephew, Dylan, will be 22. Happy birthday to all!

On a very special note, Manny and I will celebrate our fourth wedding anniversary on August 25th. Manny has always told me that for the first four years of marriage, we are considered “newlyweds,” but I’m not buying the idea that “the honeymoon is over.” Being married to Manny has been the most remarkable experience of my life. We talk. We listen. We disagree. We learn. We change. We grow. I will not say that it has been easy. I will say that I wouldn’t change it for the world. I love my husband more than I ever knew I could. I am looking forward to the next four years being Act II…and it is going to be remarkable. I love you, Manny. If you haven’t yet had a remarkable moment this summer…you still have time! Make it so. See you next month!

Points of Interest

Hot summer leaving you drained of energy? Schedule some time at Valo Wellness Spa. Omaha’s new resort spa experience. Take some time for yourself to rejuvenate your body, mind and spirit. See their ad on page 16.

Junkin’ Market Days is back for their Fall Market, September 8th and 9th. If you buy one admission ticket, you will get the second one FREE. See their ad on page 17 for details.

Kidz Shoppe and Hiz & Herz

Consignment Sale is gearing up for their exciting fall sale September 13-16. They are looking for consignors, volunteers, and, of course, shoppers. Take advantage of the fun event. Their ad can be found on page 6.

Tee-up to help UNMC Munroe-Meyer Institute. The RiteCare Gold Classic is scheduled for September 29th. You can make a difference by signing up with your friends to play in this golf classic. This annual event benefits RiteCare Speech and Language Clinic. See their ad on page 7 for details.

Now is the perfect time to remodel your kitchen and bathroom. Jill of All Trades is offering a great special. If you remodel your kitchen, you will receive 20% off your bathroom remodel. Her ad is on page 33.

Mobility City is here to help seniors, veterans, and the disabled (both young and old), achieve independence with mobility equipment. See their ad on page 49 for details and learn how to receive a $100 discount.

Janet Van deWalle, National Publisher

Positive Thought of the Month

“Occasionally in life, there are those moments of unutterable fulfillment which cannot be completely explained by those symbols called words. Their meanings can only be articulated by the inaudible language of the heart.” —Martin Luther King, Jr.

The simplest thing we can do for our pets to ensure they live healthy and happy lives is to have them vaccinated.

Sight is arguably the most important sense for safety and self-preservation.

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.

symptoms of overactive bladder and leakage.

The doctors at our office can reduce most bunions with small, stab incisions. There is no unsightly, long bunion scar that may occur from traditional bunion surgery. We are among the few doctors that perform this innovative procedure without screws or pins. Many patients are back at work in only a few days and most insurance plans cover the procedure.

Back to School and Garden Veggies—Let’s Eat!

By Kate Beiting

Blue Ribbon Blueberry Bread

Cream 1 stick of butter with 1 cup of sugar. Add 2 eggs, 1/2 cup of milk, and 2 Tablespoons of lemon juice. In another bowl, whisk 1 and 1/2 cups of flour with 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of coriander. Slowly add and mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture. Fold in 2 cups of fresh blueberries. Pour into a greased loaf pan. Sprinkle a bit of cinnamon sugar on top. Bake at 350 degrees for 50–60 minutes (use a toothpick to test for doneness). Cool.

Baked Honey Drumsticks

Mix together 1 cup of honey, 3 Tablespoons of soy sauce, and 2 Tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. Add 6 cloves of minced garlic and a dash of red pepper flakes. Pour 1/2 cup of the honey mixture into a zip-top bag (reserve the rest of the marinade for baking). Add 8–12 dry chicken drumsticks to the bag. Refrigerate for several hours.

Peel and chunk cut several carrots; cut and trim a head of broccoli. Toss them with a bit of olive oil, but keep the veggies separate (they have different cook times). Line a large cookie sheet with sprayed aluminum foil and arrange the drumsticks on the pan (discard the marinade). Put the carrots on the pan and bake for 20 minutes at 400 degrees. Add the broccoli to the pan and bake for another 20 minutes. Stir the remaining honey mixture with 1 teaspoon of cornstarch and 2 teaspoons of cold water. Microwave for 30 seconds (careful—it’s hot!). Drizzle the

mixture over the chicken and vegetables. Bake for another 10 minutes, until the chicken’s internal temperature is 170 degrees.

Patio Shrimp and Sausage Boil

Fill a stock pot with water and bring to a boil. Add 1 or 2 boxes of shrimp/crab boil (you can find this in the spice aisle). Add 6 small red potatoes and boil for 15 minutes. Add 1 pound of cut-up kielbasa, 2 chopped onions, 1 small bottle of Tabasco, 6 garlic cloves, and 2 sliced lemons. Cook for 10 minutes, and then add a pound of raw shrimp, peeled and de-veined. Cook for 3–4 minutes, until shrimp are pink. Spread butcher paper over the tables outside on the patio, drain the pot, and pour out the contents. Serve with butter cubes, crusty bread, and lemon slices.

Fresh Pesto

Rinse and dry 3 cups of fresh basil leaves. In a food processor or blender, combine the basil, 2 teaspoons of minced garlic, 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil, 1/2 cup of pine nuts, and 3/4 cup

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of grated Romano cheese. Pulse or blend until you get a paste. Serve with hot fettucine or however you like.

Cukes and Onion

Mix 1 cup of mayonnaise with 1/2 cup of sugar, 4 Tablespoons of vinegar, and a dash of salt and pepper. Add 3 peeled and sliced cucumbers and 1 sliced onion. Toss to coat. Refrigerate for several hours.

Back-to-School Lettuce Wraps

Separate, wash, and pat dry 10 Romaine leaves. In a large skillet, brown 1 pound of ground chuck (or chicken or thinly sliced steak) along with 3 cloves of minced garlic, a diced red pepper, and a small diced onion. Salt and pepper as desired and cook until the beef is done. Pour in 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice, 2 Tablespoons of honey, 1 Tablespoon of rice wine vinegar, a dash or two of hot sauce, and 1 Tablespoon of toasted sesame oil. (You can use a bottled Asian-style sauce instead of making your own.) Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring often. Spoon the mixture into the lettuce leaves. Garnish with chopped green onions, shaved carrots, and chopped peanuts.

Tomatoes and Red Onion

Cut 4 large ripe tomatoes into 1/4-inch slices. Arrange on a large platter. Mix together 1 Tablespoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and salt and black pepper to taste. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the tomatoes. Add several leaves of fresh basil (chop, if desired). Top the tomatoes with a large, thinly sliced red onion. Add small balls of fresh mozzarella, if desired. Mix 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil with 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar and drizzle over the top.

Garden Tomato Sauce

Blanch, peel, seed, and chop 4 pounds of fresh garden tomatoes. In a large pot, warm 1/4 cup of olive oil. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic and 2 chopped yellow onions. Sauté for 5 minutes. Add the tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Cook over medium heat for 25 minutes or until you like the consistency. Add 1/2 cup of freshly chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper. Use as desired.

Napa Salad

Rinse and shred a small head of Napa cabbage (or use a bag of prepared coleslaw mix). Place in a bowl along with 4 or 5 chopped green onions. In a saucepan, melt 1/3 cup of butter. Add 1 package of broken-up ramen noodles, 1 cup of slivered almonds, and 2 Tablespoons of sesame seeds. Stir to coat. Pour onto a baking sheet and bake for 5 minutes at 350 degrees. Set aside. Heat 3/4 cup of vegetable oil with 1/2 cup of sugar, 1/4 cup of cider vinegar, and 2 Tablespoons of soy sauce. Boil for 1 minute. Let cool. Mix in 1/2 teaspoon of toasted sesame oil. Mix well. Toss everything together when ready to serve. Add cooked chicken chunks, if desired.

Fresh Veggie Ratatouille

Coarsely chop 2 onions and cook in 1/4 cup of olive oil for 3–4 minutes. Add 2 cloves of crushed garlic and cook for another 2 minutes. Add 1 unpeeled and cubed small eggplant, 1 small cubed zucchini (optional), 1 chopped green pepper, and 2 peeled and chopped tomatoes. Add salt, pepper, and any other herbs you desire. Cover and simmer for 20–30 minutes, until the veggies are soft. Serve with crusty bread or as a side dish to any grilled meats.

Easy Fall Fashion Trends This Year’s Buzzword is Wearability!

By Holly Bell

Time for a fall fashion re-boot! This season has some new looks that are going to be loved by all. The general look for fall is relaxed but polished, with a special ease that makes us feel on trend but still comfortable. Designers are focusing this year on wearability. It’s nice to see fashion that is what women want and will actually wear.

We loved the look and feel of the loose, lightweight summer pant. If you haven’t gotten on the bandwagon for this trend yet, the time is now! They are part of the oversized look that is coming for fall. Look for the high-waisted, tailored pants that give you a long, lean look. There are many styles, from cropped above the ankle to extra-long trousers. Whatever you choose, this look will give you a modern vibe. With a loose look on the bottom half, it is important to have a fitted or tucked-in top—otherwise, you could end up looking boxy.

Short dresses are great for summer, but look for longer midi and maxi dresses for fall and winter. Long dresses with an A-line shape are feminine and flattering. Very popular are tops and skirts that make you like you’re wearing a dress. You get the streamlined look of a dress but the versatility of two pieces.

Blazers are going to be a hot item this fall and winter, worn as a jacket in the fall and under a coat for extra warmth in the winter. Blazers offer a polished look when worn over jeans, trousers, or a dress. Shoulders will be a bit bolder and sharper, reminding us of a modified ’80s trend. Last year, the blazers were longer and looser, and that trend is moving forward.

Pair a blazer with a fitted solid top so you don’t have a lot of bulk underneath. I really love the look of a blazer over a tucked-in top with belted trousers. Slimming, sharp, and put-together! White tanks under blazers always look great. Two-piece suiting will take the well-dressed professional woman to new heights this season. The blazer is the star piece, with mix-and-match skirts and trousers being offered.

Bomber jackets have come roaring back with the return of Top Gun fashion. They have borrowed the long, loose look that is so hot for the fall. The bomber jacket is a great look for fall when paired with jeans and a chunky boot.

In the fall, we usually tune in to colors like browns, golds, and burnt oranges. Not this year! Dopamine colors prevail, with brights headlining. We are not used to seeing these colors this time of year, but it is refreshing to carry your bright colors into fall. Bright red was all over the fall runways for 2023. Fashionistas are predicting it will sweep fall fashion this year, with many designers making scarlet their key shade for fall.

Think you can’t wear red? There are two key coloration tones in red. One is a blue-red, which looks great on brunettes, and the other is an orange-red tone that is great on blondes. Try both to find the red that works on you. Too shy to go all red? How about a red handbag or ruby slippers? Just a touch of this on-trend color brings your outfit up a level.

There is always an appetite for classic, minimal wardrobe essentials and staples that never go out of style. Keep wearing these favorites, but add a couple of on-trend pieces to spice up your wardrobe for fall 2023. Having fun with fashion is what it’s all about! Sometimes, it just takes a few pieces to refresh your look.

Fall is the time we start thinking about holiday celebrations. Dressing up will be fun this year, with sequins, silk, satin, feathers, and even a bit of fringe! On the flip side, ’90s minimalism is also coming back into vogue, with column dresses in solid colors. The focus here is on cut and tailoring. Minimalism always looks chic! It’s fun to show two sides of your personality with these opposing trends.

Finally, shapewear. It’s not a new concept, but it has come a long way from the girdles of the 20th century. Smooth silhouettes are always in style! No matter what your size, you will always stand a little taller, feel a little slimmer, and still be comfortable in the shapewear of today. Size up if you like; it will still work to smooth things out. With the hot weather behind us, we have no excuse not to try this ongoing fashion trend. It’s time to start thinking about cooler temperatures and how gorgeous you are going to look this fall!

Cleaning and Companionship Caring for the Community

June Mourgis and Shirley Tingley are two successful businesswomen who share a passion: caring for others. This passion is evident in their respective businesses, Home Cleaning Centers of America and Caring Senior Service. The companies share a common theme of providing services that are designed to improve the lives of others. They want to make a positive difference in other people’s lives, and they’ve been doing it for three decades.

June and Shirley understand the importance of promoting a culture of care, empathy, and compassion, and they put these values at the forefront of their operations. Clients of both Home Cleaning Centers of America and Caring Senior Service can expect the highest level of professionalism and care from the staff.

When June and Shirley search for new staff members for either company, they look for caring people—people who will hold a door open for someone else, who will go out of their way to help a stranger, who are passionate about serving others. It’s not just about the skills and experience a potential employee may have but about their inherent desire to make a difference in someone’s life. This caring attitude permeates every level of these companies and sets them apart from their competition in the industry.

Caring Senior Service helps seniors who need assistance with daily tasks, like preparing a meal, medication reminders, and personal care. They provide services that help seniors stay in their homes safely. They also help adults of any age who need temporary home assistance after surgery or an injury. Think of them as additional family members who can step in when other family members can’t.

Each client of Caring Senior Service is assigned their own dedicated caregiver, ensuring a consistent and meaningful relationship between caregiver and client. Shirley takes great care in personally introducing the caregiver t o the client, emphasizing the importance of trust and familiarity. She also makes sure to match the needs of her clients with the specific personality and skill sets of her caregivers, ensuring the best possible experience for every client.

Seeing the same caregiver each time care is provided is important. It allows the caregiver and the client to get to know each other and feel comfortable with each other instead of asking clients to invite strangers into their homes. It also allows the caregiver a unique opportunity to recognize when the client is exhibiting unusual behavior or symptoms that require a doctor’s visit. For example, the caregiver will know if the client is sleeping more than usual, is having trouble remembering things, is struggling

with tasks they once did with ease, or if one side of their face is drooping—even just a little bit.

By Charlene Pierce

Some home care companies require a full or half-day minimum of care. Caring Senior Service has a minimum of just one hour, making it much more affordable and flexible for families who need only a limited duration of care. This is especially useful for smaller tasks that do not require a whole afternoon of care, such as helping with personal care or light housekeeping. At Caring Senior Service, the team believes in providing tailored care to meet each individual’s needs. As a result, they create a personalized care plan that prioritizes the client’s comfort and happiness above all else.

They strive to provide peace of mind not only to the individuals they care for but to their clients’ families, as well. When a loved one requires assistance with daily tasks or in-home care, it can be a source of immense stress and worry for family members. When families engage the services of Caring Senior Service, they can rest assured that their loved one is being cared for and kept safe in a compassionate and respectful manner.

In June and Shirley’s cleaning business, Home Cleaning Centers of America, they take the same care with whom they hire. They understand the importance of trust in their industry, and they only hire people who respect that trust. They go above and beyond in their hiring process by personally checking a minimum of three references for every potential employee and running extensive background checks on all employees—not just before hiring but every year. This level of care ensures that their staff is reliable, trustworthy, and respectful when entering the most personal and private spaces of their client’s homes. As a result, they maintain the highest standards of professionalism and respect for their client’s privacy.

You can reach both Caring Senior Service and Home Cleaning Centers of America at 402-682-7326. Their joint office is located at 10051 Maple Street, in Omaha. For more information, find them online at homecleaningcenters.com and caringseniorservice.com.

L-R Shirley Tingley, June Mourgis,Franchise Owner,

LEO

July 23–August 22

Happy birthday, Leo! Recent travel (local or otherwise) came with many benefits. You feel rested and are ready to take on challenges. Everyone is pleased with your hard work, determination, and commitment! Expand your knowledge in areas that interest you, and reach out to family, friends, and social contacts for the assistance you need. Don’t forget to rest to maintain your good health.

Virgo (Aug 23–Sep 22) You will experience the type of joy you have been searching for. You gain greater relationships with your family, and past challenges will evaporate.

Libra (Sep 23–Oct 22) Your energy levels are on the rise. You feel a liveliness that will help you accomplish everything that you put your mind to—particularly in the area of social obligations.

Scorpio (Oct 23–Nov 21) Relax! Your health is blessed by the stars, with no worries. Since you are curious, forge ahead and explore your spiritual awareness.

Sagittarius (Nov 22–Dec 22) All of your hard work is about to reveal something exciting! For the time being, you should focus on your professional path to find out where it leads.

Capricorn (Dec 23–Jan 19) You are no stranger to worldly ambitions, but don’t forget to focus on family. Your loved ones are an important part of accomplishing your goals.

Aquarius (Jan 20–Feb 18) Really focus on the educational piece of your career. You may encounter mentors who are able to direct you on the path you want to travel. Reach for your professional aspirations!

Pisces (Feb 19–Mar 20) This month, you will enjoy good health and will grow stronger each day. You will feel yourself growing in both mind and body. You sense that you are being surrounded by peace and harmony—and you’re right! Embrace it.

Aries (Mar 21–April 19) Although you are independent by nature, this is the time to collaborate with others. Cooperation will open new doors for you! You’ve been thinking about adding more activities in your life. Now is the time to take up a sport or group fitness class and improve your physical well-being.

Taurus (Apr 20–May 20) Your professional achievements will be put on hold for now. At this time, it is best to nurture your spiritual side, as well as your family and home.

Gemini (May 21–Jun 20) This is a good month for family. Take this opportunity to appreciate events and celebrate with loved ones. Family affairs are sure to be peaceful.

Cancer (Jun 21–July 22) Psychological matters are demanding this month, but your energy levels are up, and your health is superb. This comes with a little help from Jupiter, who is watching out for your well-being!

Running a Household

Don’t Run Yourself Ragged!

By Deborah Daley

As a single person, you often have to fix or take care of home issues by yourself. Over the years, I have learned some helpful hints and organizational tools that I think will apply to a household of any size.

My first recommendation is to buy in bulk whenever it’s reasonable. This might seem counterintuitive, since there is only one person in my household. The key is to buy only those things that you know you use. For example, I don’t buy fresh fruit in bulk because I don’t eat it fast enough. There are some things, though, that make sense to always have on hand.

I buy non-perishables like toilet paper, garbage bags, and paper towels in bulk. I will also buy a large package of ground beef, divide it into smaller bags, and freeze it. I bought a quarter cow about a year and a half ago, which was a little outside the box. I saved so much money and had meat all the time!

It’s also convenient to buy gift supplies in bulk. When I go to a dollar store, I buy a variety of birthday, get well, and anniversary cards, as well as gift bags and tissue paper. When an event happens, I am prepared and don’t have to make a last-minute trip to the store. The day after Christmas, I get my holiday bags, tags, tissue paper, and boxes for the next year because everything is at least half off. I save tons of money this way.

For a single-person household, I do have a lot of clothes, so organizing closets is a priority. First, I divide my clothes between fall/winter and spring/ summer, into two corresponding closets. I prefer plastic hangers because you can use them for both tops and slacks. I keep tops by category—blouses, shells, sweaters, long sweaters, blazers, and activewear. I prefer hanging hoodies and sweatshirts when possible. I fold t-shirts and summer tops in my chest of drawers. All my slacks, nice capris, skirts, and dresses are in the same area. I replicate the system in each closet.

Packing for travel is really just closet organizing in miniature. I never had a backpack in my younger years, but I invested in one because you can carry it on board with your purse inside. I put my travel toiletries in clear bags and include my pajamas, a change of underwear, a top, and my phone charger cord. If I’m taking a suitcase or even a smaller carry-on bag, I roll my clothes. This really does save space!

The Ultimate Resort Spa Experience

The overarching goal of Valo Wellness Spa is to elevate the well-being of mind, body and soul for all guests through this unique collection of individual treatments and services, as well as the wellness playground. Valo provides a broad array of treatments and experiences; a day spa with top quality facials, massages and body treatments performed with organic and plant-based products, the locker room and a fireside lounge.

I have one more packing tip that is more about moving than traveling. Several years ago, I moved literally 30 feet, from a two-level townhouse to a ranch-style home. Although I had movers, I enlisted my family to take my hanging clothes. I laid a coat on my bed and put the clothes inside. Then I buttoned the coat around the clothes to keep them organized. We made a parade from one house to the other. This strategy saved a great deal of time and could also be employed when moving garments in a truck.

When it comes to cleaning, we can all use some hints. One of my lifesavers is Formula 409. I use this to remove stains from clothes before I wash them. It’s not just for hard surfaces! In my experience, it always gets the stain out. I keep old toothbrushes as tools to clean hardto-reach places and to scour backsplashes and around sinks. Also, toothpaste works to fill nail holes… just make sure it’s white paste and not green gel.

You may have heard the old organizational adage, “A place for everything and everything in its place.” This could not be more true! When I renovated my kitchen, I went to the discount store and bought small plastic baskets to organize items in my miscellaneous drawer. There is now a place for flashlights, batteries, matches, scissors, and many things I normally would have taken much more time to find. In the broom closet, I have hooks to hang extension cords, plastic bags, fly swatters, and other things that might otherwise get tangled.

Many, many years ago, when I moved to my first home, my mom gave me a toolbox. Every home should have one. Even if you don’t do a lot of repairs, there will come a time when you want to hang a picture, measure for curtains, and so much more. Must-haves include screwdrivers (both Phillips and flat head), pliers, hammer, nails, screws, a measuring tape, string, glue, and razor blades or a scraper.

No matter how big or small the household, running it is always a challenge! I hope these ideas prove helpful.

Fall Market

Little Waves Family Swim School

Saving Lives With Water Safety

In the heat of the summer, swimming is an excellent way to cool off, reduce stress, relax with family and friends, and enjoy being outdoors. If you have children who enjoy being in or around water, do they know how to swim? Are they familiar with water safety? The team at Little Waves Family Swim School teaches children to be safe in the water, in a caring and fun environment.

Swimming lessons are important for children of all ages. In addition to learning how to swim, children learn water safety skills, which greatly reduces their risk of drowning. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drowning is the most common cause of death in children between the ages of one and four years and the second leading cause of unintentional death in children between the ages of five and 14. Swimming lessons also build confidence, create respect for water, and encourage a healthy lifestyle.

Omaha native Mike McKamy founded Little Waves Family Swim School in November of 2012. Mike has been involved in swimming for most of his life. He was a competitive swimmer in high school and college. He directed the Westside Swim Lesson program for six years and the UNO Swim Lesson program for four years. He offered swimming lessons to toddlers and children in his backyard swimming pool from 2009 to 2012 before he decided to enroll in the Entrepreneurship Program at Metropolitan Community College. (He highly recommends the program for those interested in opening their own business.) He raised capital, obtained an SBA loan, and opened his business.

Little Waves Family Swim School offers lessons for children starting at six months of age. They have classes for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, kids, and pre-competitive swimmers.

An essential part of baby, toddler, and preschooler swimming lessons is getting children comfortable in the water while safely having fun. Baby lessons are for children aged six to 15 months, and parents are in the water with their children. These lessons teach them to roll onto their back so they know what to do if they fall in the water.

Toddler lessons are for kids aged 16 to 36 months. Their parents are also in the water. These lessons focus on water safety. Preschooler swim lessons are for children ages three to five years old. These lessons focus on water safety and learning basic swimming strokes.

“Kidz” lessons are for children four years and older. These lessons focus on teaching independence in the water and good swimming techniques. Children are placed in one of four groups, depending upon their skill level. Classes include basic swim skills such as submersion, back floats, rollovers, and breathing. As children progress through vari-

ous levels, they learn strokes like freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly.

By Angella Arndt

The pre-competitive program is for children interested in exploring competitive swimming. This program focuses on the four competitive strokes, turns, and the basics of training. “The program is a bridge between lessons and year-round club swimming,” Mike notes. “We work on improving stroke skills so they are ready for club swimming.”

The school’s curriculum was self-developed over several years. “We have a simple but effective approach,” Mike states. “My diverse swim background of competitive swimming and water safety provided a foundation for me to develop lesson plans instead of relying on a canned curriculum.”

The school has a teaching pool that is four feet deep and was explicitly built for swimming lessons. The water is at a constant 90 degrees, making it comfortable for children, parents, and instructors. Mike emphasizes that their teachers are experienced adults who are passionate about teaching children how to swim.

Little Waves Family Swim School has small class sizes— no more than three to four kids per instructor. “Because we are locally owned and operated, we can change lesson plans to meet a child’s needs,” Mike points out. “We can also be much more flexible with scheduling and make-up lessons.” Many parents tell Mike they appreciate how the instructors are engaged with their children, and they are pleased with the growth their children show in the water. “Many parents are amazed when their children overcome their fear of water.”

His biggest reward, Mike says, is to see children grow in their swimming. “I love to see the smiles on their faces when they learn a new skill. Swimming is an important life skill that every child should possess. If you learn how to swim, it may save your life one day.” Little Waves Family Swim School is located at 17602 Wright Street, in Omaha. The school offers classes Monday through Saturday. Call 402-932-2030 for more information or find them online at littlewavesfamilyswimschool.com.

Mike McKamy, Owner

Finding the Right Lawyer

By Deborah Daley

Law. The word has only three letters but a great deal of power and impact. Laws are rules that bind citizens living in a community. Good laws are designed to protect the safety of people and ensure their rights against abuse by others, including individuals, groups, and the government. As William Fulbright said,“Law is the essential foundation of stability and order both within societies and in international relations.”

The law permeates our society. Some of our favorite television shows and books revolve around the legal system. Students attend special schools of law to become trained lawyers. Courts are filled with cases. As citizens, we have an obligation to respond when we receive a jury summons. The law is all around us.

As a citizen, it is important to know the law. Legal issues can range from traffic rules to food safety, from discrimination to bankruptcy, from child custody to estate planning, and more. Even if you are never involved in a criminal or civil action, it’s important to understand this aspect of our lives.

However, a citizen’s basic understanding of the law will not be enough if you face a complicated legal issue. In those cases, it’s vital to have the expertise of a lawyer. Just as it’s wise to hire an experienced professional to fix a broken pipe, clean your teeth, or rebuild a transmission, it is wise to hire a professional—an attorney/lawyer—to represent you in the legal system. Their knowledge and expertise can benefit you greatly.

Some people still choose to represent themselves on legal matters. However, there are many reasons to hire an attorney. Some general considerations can help you make the decision.

It’s not enough to merely decide that you need legal representation—choosing the right type of lawyer is also critical. There are many types of lawyers, and picking the right one might seem intimidating, since picking the wrong one can be a disaster. As with any consumer transaction, the first step is to gather some information. You are the customer here. You should evaluate legal services much as you would evaluate your options before making a major purchase like a house or a vehicle.

Compile your list of potential lawyers by seeking personal referrals from family, friends, and colleagues. That is a great way to start. Another important source is the state bar association. Credentials and areas of expertise are listed on these websites.

Even if you are never involved in a criminal or civil action, it’s important to understand this aspect of our lives.

Once you have a list of potential attorneys, evaluate them in person. Many offer free initial consultations. Bring a list of questions. Include inquiries about their area of expertise, costs, their legal support team, and their communication process. Lawyers represent many individuals, so it is important that you set up parameters on issues like response time and forms of communication. If someone just doesn’t seem like a good fit, move on.

First of all, consider your comfort level with the legal issue at hand. Do you know enough about the issue, understand the legal terms and concepts, and feel confident that you can express yourself persuasively? If you need to do complicated estate planning or are part of complex business transactions or contracts, it’s always wise to get expert representation.

Second, consider the consequences. Some traffic violations, crimes, and even types of tax fraud can result in arrest warrants. If you want to avoid jail time, get a lawyer involved. You want an attorney to mitigate these issues. You should also consult a lawyer if you stand to lose a great deal of money. If you can’t afford to lose the case, hire an attorney.

Third, consider whether or not injury was involved. From vehicle accidents to a pet biting someone, let the experts handle cases of bodily injury. Emotions can get heated and financial claims are often made. Even if the injury is not physical, emotional injury can also raise the temperature of a case. In a divorce, for example, it’s always advisable to have a lawyer represent you, especially if your opponent has an attorney.

Having the right lawyer who practices the right type of law improves your success rate immensely. Just like other professionals, attorneys concentrate their expertise in various aspects of the law. The better informed you are on their special areas of expertise, the easier it will be to choose the right person to support your legal needs.

The law can reach into almost every aspect of our lives. Some of the most common intersections between citizens and the legal system include family law, real estate, criminal or civil court, elder law, estate/trust planning, and corporate and franchise law. Let’s take a brief look at what kind of issues each of these types of attorneys would be well prepared to address.

Family law attorneys manage legal dealings between members of the same family. Some of the most common issues that lawyers resolve include divorces, guardianship, emancipation, child custody, adoption, and abuse and neglect. Having a third-party professional can save time, money, and relationships. Lawyers can often act as mediators.

Real estate lawyers are licensed to practice real estate law,

having the knowledge and expertise to advise parties on real estate transactions such as a home sale. Some states require real estate attorneys for such purchases, though Nebraska and Iowa are not on that list. Given your level of comfort with real estate, you can decide whether you need one or not.

Criminal attorneys are those who defend individuals in federal, state, and appellate court. If you are charged with a crime by the state or federal government, you are entitled to a defense attorney under the law. A defense attorney will do client interviews and case investigation, draft documents such as pleas or counter claims, conduct settlement agreements, support jury selection, and appear and argue on behalf of clients.

A civil lawyer is a blanket term for those who practice non-criminal law. These litigators can practice in several areas but often specialize in one, such as personal injury or estate planning. When looking at their resumes, see if they practice in the area of support you need.

Elder law addresses the special legal needs of senior citizens. As a society, we are living longer, and we need more help than ever to deal with things like long-term Medicaid planning, conservatorships, trusts, asset preservation, and more. The laws surrounding the benefits of Medicaid, for instance, have become increasingly complex and are often difficult for people outside the industry to understand. A lawyer can help navigate these legal waters.

Estate planning or trust planning attorneys help with such things as preparation of wills, powers of attorney for someone of your choosing to make financial and health decisions on your behalf, advance medical directives, and guardianships.

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Be sure your attorney knows the laws of your state pertaining to these issues.

A corporate lawyer is usually referred to as a transactional lawyer. They deal with legal issues that arise in businesses or with employment issues. Such things as drafting and negotiating contracts; advising on government, commercial, or compliance matters; understanding and processing required forms like business licenses and taxes; and intellectual property are usually part of their portfolios.

A franchise lawyer works in a very specialized area within the established rules of a parent company. McDonalds, for example, is a national franchise in which local individuals buy into the parent company. The franchise allows the business investor to utilize their brand, systems, names, products, and services. The franchise owner purchases the franchise but also shares a percentage of the profits. These contracts can be very complex, and having a specialized advocate on your side can be advantageous.

There are many reasons to engage the services of a lawyer, including (but not limited to) the ones we have covered here. The most important point is to evaluate each potential attorney the same way you would evaluate any other service provider or major purchase. Do they have experience in the area of law that you need? Can they provide positive reviews from past clients? When you meet with them, do they make you feel comfortable and cared for? Do they seem trustworthy? When it comes to navigating complicated legal waters, having the right lawyer can make all the difference.

Sources for this article included: judiciallearningcenter.org, forbes.com, legalzoom.com, and abi.org.

The Market Place

Dunning Acupuncture and Massage

We strive to provide individualized, whole-person treatments in a comfortable, professional setting. Classic Traditional Chinese Medical (TCM) diagnosis and treatment gives the best treatment available for each person.

This month, we are featuring the Covid Kit, which includes the high-quality Chinese herbal formula “Jade Wind Screen.”This formula has been used for centuries to strengthen the protective capacity of the immune system against cold and flu. Also included is the “Cold Killer” formula, which is used for the early onset (days 1-3) of cold/flu symptoms. Detailed instructions included. Kit cost is $100. Call today: 402-650-7715

Cake Expressions, Inc.

Cakes are my passion! It’s back to school time a perfect time for teacher appreciation. Let us make your event extra special.

We specialize in wedding cakes, 3-D cakes, cupcake pull-a-parts, and various desserts.

Cake Flavors: White, Chocolate, Marble, Almond, Strawberry, Lemon, Pink Champagne, Red Velvet, Spice, Carrot Cake, Yellow, Blueberry, Pineapple, German Chocolate, Chocolate Chip, Confetti, Carrot Cake, Coconut, Pina Colada, RumChata, Cinnamon Apple, Key Lime, and others upon request.

Filling flavors: Strawberry, Apple, Lemon, Pineapple, Bavarian Cream, Coconut, Raspberry, Black Forest, Peanut Butter Mousse, Baileys Irish Cream, RumChata, Key Lime. Call Debbie at 402-933-4158 Located at 3503 Samson Way, Suite 100 in Bellevue.

VENUS VEIN CLINIC

Vein disease isn’t about appearance as much as it is about your health. Do you suffer from leg pain, swelling, restlessness, and skin discoloration? These are very common symptoms of vein disease. Left untreated, it can cause serious health issues. At VENUS, you may be surprised at how easily and comfortably you can improve your daily life. There is no downtime to recover, there’s no sedation or heavy medicines needed, and treatments are covered by medical insurance. You can go right back to work or exercise, and you will feel better and look better, too.

VENUS Vein Clinic—Your Go-To Vein Clinic. Don’t wait a day longer, call today at 402-979-VEIN (8346) or visit VenusVeinClinic.com.

Angels On Assignment - Homecare & Staffing

As a family caregiver, you may find yourself facing a host of new responsibilities, many of which are unfamiliar or intimidating. At times, you may feel overwhelmed and alone.

The good news is that you don’t have to be a nursing expert, a superhero, or a saint in order to be a good caregiver. With the right help and support, you can be a good caregiver without having to sacrifice yourself in the process.

Call us today at 402-506-1404. Let us help!

Nebraska History Museum

During a time of great fear, Japanese Americans were discriminated against during World War II. However, not all states shared these feelings. In partnership with the Legacy of the Plains Museum in Gering, the Nebraska History Museum is pleased to present “Preserving a Legacy: Japanese in Nebraska” to expand on the story told by the traveling Smithsonian exhibition “Righting a Wrong.”The story of Japanese Americans in Nebraska is filled with hope and support in the state. Nebraskans of Japanese ancestry have led the way in righting the wrongs of the 1940s. This exhibit strives to tell these stories.

OkOmaha Real Estate Co.

OkOmaha Real Estate Co. is locally owned and has been in the real estate business for over 30 years. Your property will always be treated as if it were our own. Our passion is to keep our clients’ investments professionally managed, clean, and occupied. Because of this, we can ensure that you—the owner—can relax and leave the managing of your assets to us. I’m positive that when you meet and talk with us, there will be no regrets. Call us today! 402-905-2247.

Italian Holiday?Head South!

By Jackie Williams

If you’re planning an Italian vacation but aren’t sure where to go, you’re in luck. I have quite a few friends who are from Italy (or have lived there), and I want to share with you their personal recommendations for an Italian holiday. Do you want to spend your trip learning about ancient history? Do you want somewhere to just relax and walk around on your own? Do you seek an outdoor adventure or a luxury getaway? It’s time to choose your dates, find your travel partners, and get ready to pack!

Wouldn’t it be lovely to explore all of Italy on holiday? That sounds amazing, but it would take several months of travel to see the whole country. For shorter trips, it’s best to explore Italy by region. Which region should you choose first? All of my Italian friends tell me the same thing: “Go to the South!”

Let’s start with Naples (Napoli). The name means “new city” because the current city was built over an ancient one. You can still see plenty of evidence of the old city, both aboveground and in the tunnels and catacombs. The environment is unique, and it’s crowded—Italians and international travelers alike love to vacation in Naples.

My friend Martin describes Naples as “old architecture, full of interesting buildings that contain hidden messages. Homes hanging on the hills, antique libraries, shops, restaurants—keeping the look, taste, and feeling of thousands of years ago. Cuisine is still simple, original. It’s like jumping into another world.”

famous for the Blue Grotto, visitors on yachts, and exclusive hotels and shopping. Walk or take the funicular to the highest peak, Monte Solaro, for gorgeous views of Naples, Vesuvius, and the Amalfi Coast. Another tourist destination is the island of Ischia. Full of coves, beaches, and unspoiled landscapes, Ischia has over 300 spas, thanks to its hot springs. It’s a great spot to unwind.

The southern Italian city of Caserta is worth a visit just to see the Royal Palace. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a real treasure. You can tour the apartments, the park, and beautiful English gardens.

Christmas is the most popular time to visit Naples, and it’s a more expensive and crowded time to go.

When you visit Naples, Martin advises, take the time to enjoy just walking around. The Street of Shepherds is famous for its handmade art, including exquisite wood carvings of nativity scenes. Visit some of the old churches and see cherished art like the marble sculpture Cristo Velato (Veiled Christ). Walk the straight path of Spaccanapoli, the street designed to go from the king’s residence straight out of the city, now lined with antique shops and monuments.

Taking an organized tour is a great way to see the city, especially on your first trip. You can also buy or download a guidebook and go at your own pace, resting and eating wherever you choose. Of course, make sure you are not on a diet when visiting Italy, where you will be faced with croissants that are “exploding with Nutella.” Christmas is the most popular time to visit Naples, and it’s a more expensive and crowded time to go. Perhaps it’s so popular because of the traditional fried pizza on December 24th?

Naples has a big harbor, which makes it easy to travel to nearby islands by boat. I’m sure you’ve heard of Capri,

Let’s talk about the next Italian city I’ll be visiting: Calabria! Located at the toe of the boot, the area combines beautiful Mediterranean seas and mountainous regions. The culture is different here than in other parts of Italy, and Greek influences are easy to see in the ancient ruins.

My friends Aneta and Daniel have a family home here that they rent on Airbnb. “We are in the beautiful mountains,” they say of their cozy villa, “where you can drive 30 minutes down to one beach or 30 minutes down the other side to another beautiful beach.” Aneta has many recommendations for places to see in Calabria. “There are a lot of beautiful places here,” she says. “The most touristic are Tropea, Capo Vaticano, Pizzo Calabro, Reggio Calabria…these are near the beaches. We also have beautiful mountains called Parco Nazionale della Sila, with forests, lakes, and the biggest sequoia in Europe, at Pino Laricio. At this park, you can eat very tasty food, visit different museums, and snowboard or ski in the winter.” Calabria is a gorgeous place where you can swim, dive, or sail in the crystal blue Mediterranean waters. The nearby scenic mountains are ready for you to hike, bike, and walk the nature trails.

There you have it! Head south for a little something different when visiting Italy. Enjoy a vacation where you can relax as much as you want, enjoy nature as much as you want, and have as many cappuccinos, pizzas, and gelatos as you want. Ciao!

Sources for this article included: visitnaples.eu, italia.it/en, and britannica.com.

Laughter for a Lifetime

The Upside of Oops Never Losing Your Perspective

As humans, we all make mistakes. Some of us seem to make more mistakes than others. Then there are people who seem to be cast members right out of the Keystone Cops, tripping over their own tongues and making huge gaffes. Is there help for these poor souls?

Well, yes, there certainly is a solution, but it does involve learning to navigate our social selves. Honesty is important, of course. Willing to admit a slip of the tongue or having simply forgotten something or someone is necessary. Steering through our lives without hurting the feelings of others or minimizing their lives can be a challenge, but this is a worthwhile task.

Do you ever wonder if your tongue is really working with your brain? Of course, in a perfect world, our brain works in league with our tongue and hopefully will protect us from too many verbal errors. This does not always happen. When we blurt out what we’re really thinking or feeling instead of using diplomacy, there is usually enough embarrassment to go around—for everyone.

Although my own husband of many years is a wonderful man, he DOES NOT enjoy social gatherings and makes every attempt to avoid them. You know what kind of social gathering we’re talking about here. For a man of few words, a 30-minute visit is plenty. Sadly, he is married to a woman who hasn’t stopped talking since age 2.

When we are planning to attend a shindig or soiree, I drill him on which questions not to ask, who should not be mentioned by name, and the ever-growing list of recent births, deaths, and divorces. No wonder he’s a nervous wreck by the time we arrive. Still, we do need to keep up socially, and so he endures. His “oopses” are not as frequent as they used to be. He has learned to become a listener rather than a talker, calculating that if he remains quiet, he will make fewer mistakes, thus offending fewer people. The upside of oops for him is that he is regarded as a very kind and caring person, willing to listen to everyone’s tales. These days, he is well-liked by everyone—except my mother, who views his quiet demeanor as being aloof. Well, you can’t please everyone!

I myself have had plenty of “oops” moments. As age creeps up on me, it is more difficult to sort out who is who. Often, I have been guilty of calling someone by the wrong name. This is embarrassing both for me and for my misidentified victim. People do love to hear their own name, but sometimes it is easier just to talk to someone without using their name. I do not recommend calling people “honey,”

By Sharon Knierim

“kiddo,” or “doll face.” This is actually worse than renaming someone in the middle of a conversation. To add to the frustration, I have a nasty habit of naming people what I think they should be called. This is really asking for all kinds of trouble, and I should break myself of this unkind and offensive habit. Someday I’ll get my comeuppance, blurting out “pie face” or “Barbie doll.” In fact, I will take this opportunity to predict my downfall.

Social gatherings offer the best opportunity for performing an oops. The challenge begins with issuing invitations. Who to invite? Who not to invite? This first hurdle can be painful. If you design a huge guest list and pare it down, there will be trouble. Someone will have his or her feelings hurt. If you plan to invite just a few intimate friends, you’re bound to discover someone was counting on your thoughtfulness by including them. There are often no winners here. You’ll have to do the best you can. Of course, you can always lie when the uninvited ask why they haven’t received their invitations. You can try this method if you like, but it won’t make you or your not-invited guest very happy. Tell the truth and invite this person to your next event. Most of the time, an oops like this does not have an upside, but you may be forgiven if you throw this person a surprise birthday party.

Call it a mistake in judgment, a slip of the tongue, too much honesty, thoughtlessness, or simply a lapse of memory, if you like. We all create an oops once in a while. Be brave. Keep charging forward. There is an upside to many an oops, and most of us are quickly forgiven. Besides, it makes us more loveable. It’s all a matter of perspective.

A Slimming Solution

Non-Invasive Fat Reduction

By Loretta McCollum

You’re up before dawn each day to stumble out the door and stagger into the gym. Your eating habits are cleaner than an operating room. You do everything right, but your love handles linger and your muffin top won’t melt. Consider a non-invasive procedure to help you slim down. Today’s procedures utilize heat, cold, ultrasonic waves, and lasers, providing body contouring with little or no downtime.

Non-invasive fat reduction treatments are typically designed for those whose body type ranges from slightly to moderately overweight. There are no major health risks or significant side effects associated with these procedures, but check with your doctor before undergoing any treatment. Results are usually long-term, and there is very little discomfort.

One option is TightSculpting, which addresses fat deposits all over the body. TightSculpting uses a dual-wavelength laser to sculpt and tighten. The first laser heats the fat cells, stimulating metabolism. A second laser heats the surface tissue, prompting new collagen production that improves skin elasticity. Treatments take 30 minutes, and most patients undergo three to six sessions for optimum results. Treated skin may be slightly red for a few days, but no downtime is required. Fat cells that have been destroyed will not return.

TruSculpt 3D also employs heat to destroy fat cells. This technique 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 treatment. It may be a particularly good option for areas with loose skin. Drink plenty of fluids 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 for 12 to 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 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 individuals who are close to their ideal weight but want

Brighten Month YOUR

August

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 boosts collagen production, helping skin remain elastic.

Burning fat isn’t the only way to lose it. CoolSculpting both 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 treatments freeze the fat cells. It’s great for love handles, thighs, and arms. It improves circulation and boosts collagen production, breaking down fat. Treatments last about 20 minutes, and results are visible immediately. Maintenance treatments are performed every six months. However, if you have diabetes or are pregnant, this is not the option for you.

Ultrasound fat reduction utilizes sonic waves to break down fat cells, releasing them into the body to be naturally metabolized, reducing the size of the fat deposit. This is a good option for the abdomen and buttocks. The destroyed fat cells will not grow back, and results are long-lasting with weight maintenance.

Finally, Kybella is an injectable form of deoxycholic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body. It breaks down fat cells on contact to reduce a fat pocket. It’s very effective in reducing a double chin. Treatment involves multiple injections, and little downtime is required. Typically, patients undergo two to four treatments, one month apart. Fat cells are destroyed and will not return.

Consult a physician or aesthetician to find out which option is best for you.

Sources for this article included: webmd.com, americanboardcosmeticsurgery. org, and aad.org.

Steve Sheridan, Owner

by Design

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

Why Hiring an Interior Designer Makes Sense

By Robyn V. Powell

Whether you’re building a new home or remodeling your current one, you may find yourself asking, “Should I hire an interior designer?”Many homeowners wonder if the fees for professional design services versus the value-add is really worth it. According to industry experts, the answer is a resounding yes! Working with an interior designer doesn’t just save you time and money—it also alleviates much of the stress that comes with any construction project. The earlier you bring a designer into your project, the better.

Interior designer and interior decorator are job titles that are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same profession. Simply put, designers create functional spaces within a building while decorators adorn an existing space with decorative elements. Whether you hire a designer or a decorator depends on your needs.

A designer analyzes their client’s needs and plans layouts that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional. Designers understand building codes and regulatory requirements, and they can work closely with architects and contractors when developing plans. Interior designers take the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) exam. This is a globally recognized exam and is the highest standard an interior designer can earn. NCIDQ-certified interior designers must complete a minimum of an associate degree in design and have completed three years of work experience in the field.

Interior decorators focus on embellishing existing spaces with pleasing elements such as furniture, paint, accessories, and rugs. They often partner with furniture makers, upholsterers, painters, and other home decoration professionals. They are not required to have particular training.

Before hiring a professional, consider your needs and budget. Take a look at each individual’s portfolio and be sure to get references before you make a decision. If your space requires structural changes, such as removing a wall, rerouting plumbing or electrical wiring, or adding new windows or doors, a designer is the better choice. If your space needs a visual update such as new furnishings, paint, or flooring, an interior decorator can manage this role with ease. The best choice depends largely on the skills of the particular professional. Many decorators have enough industry experience to have acquired design skills and many designers are excellent decorators.

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

If your project is a new build or a major remodel, having an interior designer on your team early in the process can give you the guidance you need to ask the right questions of builders and architects. Designers see the big picture. They understand your design aspirations, the building process, and the bidding and negotiation process, which can be complex. Designers can prepare you for what to expect, coordinate communications, and ensure everyone is on the same page. A designer’s role is to make sure every detail is curated to bring your unique living space to life. Space planning is a fundamental aspect of interior design that optimizes the use of available space in a room. By understanding your needs, an interior designer can create a functional layout that enhances the flow of movement and makes the most of an area.

Working with a design professional can help you avoid costly mistakes. One of the trickiest design challenges is getting scale and color just right. Inexperienced homeowners can easily misjudge the proper scale of light fixtures or a kitchen island. Fixing such a mistake can end up blowing a big part of your budget. Another significant savings that designers can pass along to you is their special discounts on appliances, lighting, rugs, and furniture. Designers can also cut costs by working with what is already there. Instead of replacing all existing items, designers can repurpose and incorporate pieces in exciting new ways you may not have considered, like re-upholstering furniture or re-using existing woodwork elsewhere in the project.

How to find the right interior designer? Step one is to ask around for referrals. Friends, neighbors, and real estate agents are great resources. Some architects have in-house designers or can make referrals. Check out designers’ websites to see photos of recent projects and get a feel for their style. Once you’ve figured out what you want in your project and how much you want to spend, you’re ready to begin the hiring process. Be clear about your budget! A good designer can help you prioritize your wish list and help you find good contractors. They usually have a list of reliable people who do good work.

Ultimately, hiring an interior designer adds value and is a smart investment. When it comes to saving time, money, and stress, interior design services often end up paying for themselves.

Sources for this article included: cidq.org, houzz.com, and hgtv.com.

An End to Headache Pain

Too Good to Be True?

By Leslie Byrne

If you live with regular headache pain, please stop thinking that it is something you must simply endure. There is help! Knowing what type of headache you’re experiencing and what is causing your headache can lead you to successful treatment.

There are over 150 types of headaches, but they all fall into one of two categories: primary headaches and secondary headaches. A primary headache is its own condition and is not caused by a different medical condition. Common causes of primary headaches include stress, jaw or dental issues, diet, eye problems, medications, or hormonal changes. A secondary headache, on the other hand, is a symptom of another health issue. The list of causes of secondary headaches is long and includes things as different as dehydration and brain aneurysms. They can also be caused by sinus infections, blood clots, concussion, hangovers, high blood pressure, the flu, and meningitis.

Four common types of headaches include migraines, tension, hypnic, and cluster. Let’s take a look at each type.

A migraine is a primary headache, and a neurological disease, that causes a throbbing, pulsing headache, usually on one side of the head. The symptoms can become worse in response to physical activity, lights, sounds, and smells. About 12 percent of Americans get migraine headaches, which can range in severity. It is the sixth most disabling disease in the world.

Many who are prone to migraines describe the pain as drilling, throbbing, or like an icepick in the head. The pain often starts on one side of the head and then spreads to the other side. The average length of time that a migraine is present is eight to 73 hours. Some migraine sufferers experience what are called aura symptoms. These act like warning signals that a migraine headache is about to begin. Common symptoms of an aura include seeing flashing dots, sparkles, or lights; vision blind spots; seeing wavy or jagged lines; or experiencing changes in smell or taste.

The most common type of headache is a tension headache. It is often described as feeling like there is a tight band around the head. The symptoms include a dull, aching head pain, as well as tightness and tenderness on the scalp or in the neck and shoulder muscles.

A hypnic headache is a primary headache disorder. Its most unique feature is that it only occurs during sleep—the pain causes the sufferer to wake up. (It is also called the alarm clock headache.) It is most common in people over age 50. The pain can

range from mild to severe and occurs on both sides of the head. Anyone with new or diagnosed hypnic headaches should be assessed by a doctor to ensure there is not an underlying secondary cause.

Cluster headaches occur in groups (clusters) and each attack lasts about one to three hours. They can occur multiple times a day. They can go into remission for weeks or even months before returning. Men are affected more often than women, and they generally begin around age 30.

To find out what type of headache you are experiencing, start with your primary care doctor. You may be referred to a headache specialist. If you suspect the pain is from a migraine, or you have a family history of migraines, your best bet is to see a neurologist (a doctor who specializes in the treatment of the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles). Migraines can be treated with medication taken daily to prevent headaches or taken at the onset of a headache.New treatments include injections of monoclonal antibodies, which are lab-created proteins that act like natural antibodies. Botox can be administered every one to three months and has been found to help by blocking chemical signals that cause muscles to contract. It also decreases sensitivity to pain.

More holistic ways to treat headaches, including migraines, include magnesium, essential oils, or acupuncture. Discuss holistic treatments with a primary care doctor or neurologist to make sure that they won’t interact with pharmaceuticals or other treatments.

Doctors may suggest dietary changes, such as decreasing caffeine, chocolate, or other foods known to trigger a patient’s migraines. Making environmental changes can help, too. If you are highly sensitive to smell, such changes may include avoiding certain household cleaners, fragranced air fresheners, or perfumes. Exercise is also recommended to help alleviate or avoid headache pain.

Frequent headaches can range from frustrating to debilitating, but there’s no reason you shouldn’t try to treat them. Many patients find significant relief with treatment. Check with your primary care provider to see what treatment might be right for you.

Sources for this article included: mayoclinic.org, my.clevelandclinic.org, cedars-sinai.org, and americanmigrainefoundation. org.

S&N Landscape Design Excellence Based on Relationships

In an industry dominated by men, Omaha landscapers Sarah Perry and Nancy Sohns are thriving. They started S&N Landscape Design in 2006 and incorporated the company in 2012. The firm’s mission includes a commitment to clear communication with clients and a team approach to getting the job done.

Their team includes a crew that has been with the company for over 10 years, which is a real testament to the positive environment Sarah and Nancy have created. The co-founders’ journey began when they met working at a local nursery. Their philosophy toward landscaping and hard work just clicked, and a unique partnership was set in motion.

Before any services start, members of the team sit with clients to discuss their landscaping needs. The meeting is a true conversation, marrying customers’ desires with an efficient and environmentally friendly approach to the landscape issue.

“Our years of experience unveiled to us a gap between clients and landscaping design groups,” Nancy says. “We listen to what our clients want and build a mutual approach

By Deborah Daley

to design.”They hoped that building and maintaining these relationships would lead to repeat clients and positive referrals. Their strategy is working! Nancy says the only paid marketing they do is with Women’s Edition. All their other business is through word-ofmouth and client referrals.

The firm offers a wide variety of services, including landscape design, hardscape design, water features, and landscape lighting.

Sarah Perry & Nancy Sohns, Owners

Landscape design focuses on putting the right plants in the right places. This gives plants the correct sunlight and water requirements to mature to their desired height and width. The common-sense approach cuts down on maintenance and future replacements. Known for their plant savvy, the company’s website showcases blogs and a newsletter that features ongoing plant education.

If you need something for your patio, S&N Landscape is the place to go. Their hardscape design crew has over 75 years of combined experience in hardscape, which includes designing and building paver or flagstone patios, boulder and block retaining walls, gas- and wood-burning fire pits, garden boxes, and outdoor kitchens.

As a Pisces, I believe that water can have a profound effect on your environment. It is also said that water connects everything. Adding a water feature to your yard can provide a sound barrier as well as a water source for wildlife. The group custom designs each feature to fit the client’s needs. Water features can have running water or be pond-less (for lower maintenance).

It is important to be able to enjoy your yard safely, both night and day. Appropriate lighting provides security around your home, ambient lighting for outdoor enjoyment, and safety for walkways.

The goal of S&N when creating their landscape design is to plant a variety of plants which will provide interesting foliage and color all four seasons.

“The industry has had a number of challenges because of the pandemic,” Nancy notes. “Product availability was delayed,

shipping delays continue, and the cost of labor and supplies has increased.” Despite these difficulties, Nancy is quick to point out that the rewards far outweigh the challenges. “Sarah and I are overjoyed when we see a happy client taking pride in their yard and showing excitement about the outcome.” S&N takes the time to educate clients on proper care for the plants they’ve installed. “When clients take care of their landscape, it’s a true demonstration that they value our work and expertise.”

Rich and Laura R. are quick to sing the landscape company’s praises. “When we moved into our new home, the beds were all laid around the house, but no plants or flowers were in place,” they recall. “S&N met with us for an hour to talk about what we loved, provided us with a beautiful design, and got busy making the dream a reality. We appreciate the talents of this dynamic duo!”

Longtime client Charlie agrees with this assessment. “My wife and I have been using S&N Landscape Design for our landscaping needs for the last five years and have had nothing but positive experiences with them,” Charlie shares. “They have helped us with the initial landscaping for our new home, annual spring bed maintenance and cleanup, and adding additional landscape beds and plants to our yard over the years. We have recommended S&N Landscape Design to several of our neighbors who have been impressed with their work. Sarah and Nancy are very responsive, have a good eye for design, and are reasonably priced.”

To learn more about S&N Landscape Design or request a consultation, visit snlandscapedesign.com.

Palliative Care vs. Hospice Care

What to Know Before You Need to Know

By Linda Barnes

The terms palliative care and hospice care are sometimes confused. This confusion is understandable— both types of care focus on the comfort of a patient with a serious disease. In fact, hospice care is actually a form of palliative care that is reserved for the final stages of a terminal illness. Families are encouraged to learn about palliative care and hospice care before the need arises. It is good to know whether insurance or Medicare pays for such services and what limitations might come into play.

Palliative care focuses on the comfort and well-being of a patient with a serious disease while treatments to cure or extend life are pursued. Diseases might include heart disease, kidney failure, stroke, cancer, dementia, lung disease, cystic fibrosis, Parkinson’s, or end-stage liver disease. Since palliative care is a more recent concept, not everyone is familiar with its advantages. It can be extremely helpful to a person who is experiencing a serious medical condition, allowing them to live well despite their illness.

A palliative care team may include doctors, nurses, social workers, chaplains, or others to add support to and complement ongoing care. One needn’t wait—in fact, shouldn’t wait—until physical or emotional pain is extreme before seeking palliative care.

Hospice care is a form of palliative care reserved for the final few weeks or months of a terminal illness. With hospice, curative

treatments are discontinued, and care is focused on relieving pain and other symptoms to ensure the patient’s comfort. This can be a difficult time for caregivers, as well. Hospice not only helps ensure the patient’s comfort but lends much needed support to caregivers.

Palliative care may be initiated when a patient is hospitalized due to a serious medical condition in a facility with its own palliative care team. In other cases, a patient may be referred for palliative care upon release from the hospital, whether they are going home or to a care facility. If a referral hasn’t been made, a patient can ask one of their physicians to do so.

Typically, the first stage in palliative care is to create a care plan that, along with treatment, might involve the patient’s primary care doctor plus any specialists and PT or other therapists involved in their care. Next, care begins with pain and symptom

management. The emotional needs of patient and caregivers are addressed. This early-stage care could last quite a long time, especially if treatment is helping.

At some point, if treatment is no longer effective and the disease is terminal, then palliative care may transition to primarily comfort care and planning emotionally for the end of life. Finally, when the physician determines that death is likely within the next six months, hospice care will be offered.

Four levels of hospice care are generally recognized: routine home care (patient is stable and pain or symptoms are under control), general inpatient care (for short-term treatment of uncontrolled pain or symptoms), continuous home care (for short-term treatment of uncontrolled pain or symptoms), and respite care (when caregivers need a break).

The patient’s wishes are paramount, but they often want guidance from loved ones or close friends. A trusted physician or hospice team member can be helpful, as well. When my father, who had lung cancer, felt uncertain about starting hospice care, a hospice worker explained that he could choose to leave hospice and return to treatment if his condition stabilized. It’s so helpful to consider issues in advance of the actual need—you might also benefit from putting them in writing.

Several online resources can assist in finding or selecting palliative or hospice care. My father’s oncologist recommended a hospice provider and set up an appointment for us. To explore more options, medicare.gov has a provider comparison. For palliative care, getpalliativecare.org has a directory. Just plug in your zip code.

When families are unable to care for a loved one, in-home care services can assist with personal care, preparation of meals, light housekeeping, transportation, or someone to run errands. Ask friends or health professionals for recommendations.

If home hospice care is not feasible, a care facility may be the answer. Many towns now have a facility dedicated specifically to hospice care. Check for accreditation and the availability of doctor or nurse. Consider any special needs of the patient. There may be local services that specialize in guiding your search for a good facility for your loved one.

Palliative and hospice care are all about improving quality of life. Shouldn’t it begin sooner rather than later?

Sources for this article includes: nia.hih. gov, medicare.gov, mayoclinic.org, and ncbi. nim.nih.gov.

Key

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Cuddly Critters

Pet Immunization Awareness Month

Vital Steps to Keep Pets Healthy

If you want your pet to live a long and happy life, it’s important to have them receive the proper immunizations at the proper times. Pets with different lifestyles and who live in different areas may need immunization from different threats. Your vet can always help you decide what vaccines are best for your pet and which ones are required by law in your state or municipality.

Vaccinations are essential components of preventative medicine for pets, explains Dr. Kate Creevy, an associate professor at Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. “Vaccinations can protect pets from serious disease or potential death and can also minimize the spread of disease among pets.” The simplest thing we can do for our pets to ensure they live healthy and happy lives is to have them vaccinated.

As with all mammals, a dog or cat’s immune system learns to recognize the pathogen in a vaccine. Then, when your pet is exposed to the disease in the future, their immune system is able to fight against it. All dogs and cats should get core vaccines. The first round of vaccinations for puppies and kittens should be given when the animals are six to eight weeks old. Final doses come at 16 weeks.

For dogs, core vaccinations include rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and hepatitis. Rabies is a deadly disease of the nervous system, spread most often through the bite of an infected animal. Once symptoms appear, it is almost certainly fatal. Canine distemper is a viral disease that affects a dog’s respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. Parvovirus is an easily transmittable GI disease. Hepatitis, as in humans, affects the liver, kidneys, and other vital organs.

Core vaccines for cats include rabies, calicivirus, feline herpesvirus, and panleukopenia virus. Calicivirus causes upper respiratory infections and oral disease. Feline herpesvirus brings respiratory infections and conjunctivitis. Feline panleukopenia (also called feline distemper) is highly contagious among cats, spreading through urine, stool, nasal secretions, or even fleas. It was once a leading cause of death in cats, but vaccines have made this disease much less prevalent.

Other vaccines, like those for Lyme disease, are administered only to animals at risk for the disease based on where they live and how much time they spend outdoors. Your vet will discuss your pet’s lifestyle to determine these risks.

Some people think if they have an indoor companion cat or dog, their pet never needs immunization. Actually, dogs and cats can “escape” their home without their owner knowing. (My little 14-year-old Maltese’s nickname is Houdini because he escapes my home so often!)

When animals go outside, they are met with many airborne contagions. Going to dog parks, walking in an open field, or just taking a jog around the block can all bring risk for pet disease.

Rescue pets are generally vaccinated as part of their rescue care (if they weren’t already). Be sure to ask the pet adoption agency for all the documentation and medical records for your new furry friend. Proof of vaccination is often needed when boarding your pet or taking your dog or cat to day care. Kennel cough is always prevalent, and many other

By Jeri Schaben

diseases are highly contagious in close quarters. Check with your kennel or day care about their requirements.

Some people have concerns about risks that come with immunizations. It’s important for pet owners to know that most research shows that modern vaccines are extremely effective and safe. My little dog has been getting his shots annually for 14 years, and he has yet to show any adverse reactions. Even though the percentage of adverse reactions is low, any pet could possibly have a negative reaction to an immunization. It’s essential to discuss any concerns you may have with your veterinarian.

The American Veterinary Medical Association is a not-for-profit organization founded in 1863. The AVMA urges pet owners and lovers to educate themselves on how to be a caring pet owner, including the importance of vaccination. Their website (avma.org) has lots of free information about taking care of pets.

Most states regulate the administration of vaccinations to domesticated animals, including dogs, cats, and ferrets. Most states allow only licensed veterinarians to administer vaccines, while others allow veterinary technicians and other trained individuals to inoculate animals. The American Veterinary Medical Association offers a convenient list of state requirements on their website.

Establish a positive relationship with your vet, and you can work together to find strategies that work for your pet’s health, including vaccinations. You and your vet can create a healthy lifestyle for your pet. We can all live long and prosper!

Sources for this article included: cityofmissionviejo.org, vetmed.tamu.edu, and avma.org.

Technology vs. Mr. Market Feel Free to Invest in Yourself

By George Morgan

Members of the older generation have experienced the increasing role that technology plays in our lives. Those of the younger generation don’t know life without it. Technology drives our cars, monitors our health and exercise, and keeps track of our wayward children. The local weather forecaster uses technology to prepare us for rainstorms in the summer and for snowstorms in the winter.

Technology’s role in the financial services industry has also been increasing over the years. For decades, money managers have used massive high-speed computers to collect the financial data of publicly traded companies and then parsed this information to predict stock prices. Computers are being called upon to monitor our investment portfolios through the increased use of robo accounts.

The difference between the use of technology in weather prediction and in stock market prediction is that it does a reasonable job on sunshine but a horrible job on our investments. Over the course of the past three decades, less than 1 percent of the actively managed mutual funds have outperformed the market.

To our tech-friendly minds, this result seems to make no sense. If we peel back the onion, we will discover that the fault lies not with the computers, but rather with Mr. Market and his accomplices. A partial answer to this conundrum lies in the simple fact that computers use logic to predict the actions of an emotional organism. Despite the protestations of some members of the financial services industry, many investment decisions are knee-jerk reactions to media headlines.

A broader answer to the underperformance question lies in the way that mutual funds are structured and regulated. The legal description of the way that a mutual fund operates is called a prospectus. Pick up the prospectus of any actively managed mutual fund, and you will find that there are many constraints placed upon their portfolio managers.

The initial headwind begins with the requirement that funds are restricted to a specific investment style. That is, they must choose to invest in a limited group of stocks or take a specific approach. For example, there are over 1,200 mutual funds that describe themselves as big cap funds. This means that they can only hold stocks that have a market cap in excess of $50 billion. If large companies falter and small companies soar, they are stuck in the underperforming sector.

A second headwind for mutual fund managers lies in the legal restrictions placed on the percentage of any individual stock that they can hold in their portfolio. Most mutual funds are restricted to around 7 percent of any one stock. Therefore, even if the money manager decides that stock XYZ is the greatest thing since sliced bread, once they hold 7 percent of XYZ in their portfolio, they must move on to the second greatest thing since sliced bread, and so on down the list.

Eventually, portfolio managers may be forced to buy stock that they don’t really find all that attractive, just because they’ve already reached the upper limit on the stocks they like.

Another performance detractor is that the most mutual funds promise their shareholders that they will always be close to fully invested. If the market reaches a point where the portfolio manager would prefer to be only 50 percent invested, or even as much as all cash, that is not an option.

Investors who buy mutual funds also sell them, which creates a drag on the funds’ performance. It is not unusual for mutual fund investors to sell their current mutual fund and chase shares of the latest hot mutual fund. This forces the portfolio manager to sell stock in order to raise cash to pay the departing investors. If the market is moving up rapidly at the time, a portfolio manager may have preferred not to sell, but they are not free to make that decision.

Last, but not least, is the cost of operating a mutual fund. Trading costs money. The more activity the fund manager engages in to enhance performance, the greater the trading costs. Because mutual funds are for-profit operations, these costs are passed on to the shareholders, reducing investment performance.

Does all of this mean that investors should never buy an actively managed mutual fund? No! You have to start by asking, “What am I trying to achieve?” Not all investors are interested in the newest, hottest, and latest investment. Some are more interested in stability and having somebody else manage their investments for them while they devote their time and energy to their grandkids. In fact, they might think of the money they spend on portfolio management as an investment in themselves.

Editor’s Note: George Morgan has five decades’ experience in all phases of the investment process. He is currently the Founder and Principal of Morgan Investor Education. His website is morganinvestoreducation.com.

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.

Roses A Love/Hate Relationship

By Linda Sutherland

Yes, I am here to talk about roses again. This beautiful shrub with a reputation for being difficult to grow and prone to disease has always been a favorite of mine. Who can resist them? At the same time, who exactly can grow them without pulling out their hair? Let’s dissect the trouble with roses.

Roses are delicate, high-maintenance plants. Think of your friend in high school who always needed to be fussed about and you have a good idea of the characteristics of roses. Roses are vulnerable to many diseases, and their inability to fight off disease is legendary. That said, gardeners can take some steps at different times during the growing season to help produce strong plants.

First and, perhaps, most importantly, make sure that your rose bushes have access to a minimum of six hours of sunlight per day. I have tried several times to grow roses in a not-so-sunny location, and it never goes well…for me or for the rose bush. Sunlight is essential for roses! They do not thrive in shady spots.

Once you have found the sunny spot for your roses, make sure the soil is rich in organic material and that the area you’ve chosen drains well. Although roses require lots of water, they do not like to be soggy. The best time to water them is in the morning. Try to avoid water getting on the

leaves. If you cannot avoid getting the leaves wet, morning watering makes it more likely that they’ll be completely dry by sundown.

Roses, like your friend from high school, like good doses of fertilizer to make them flourish. Let me be clear that “old” garden roses and shrub roses do not require as much work, but they are not my favorite. Give me a hybrid tea, grandiflora, or floribunda rose any day. I love seeing them in full bloom in the garden, but I also love to use them in arrangements. In that respect, they never disappoint.

Tea, grandiflora, and floribunda roses all require frequent grooming, fertilizing, spraying (for insects) and, of course, watering. Do not let this deter you from striving for the beauty that only roses can bring! Pruning and cutting your roses does encourage new growth throughout the season, and they are pretty good at taking a heavy trimming. These flowers of love start blooming in May and carry on right into fall.

Bare-root roses should be planted between November

Women’s Edition has been a great tool for our business. With their guidance on graphics and wording, we are getting calls and emails from great fitting customers, so the message is clear in regard to the problem we solve. We have been able to reach new customers on an individual basis. We are so happy to have formed this relationship. It helps us help our customers transition into senior living with a lot less stress!

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and March, while container roses (at your local nursery) can be planted in the spring or fall. When you plant roses, you want to consider the growth size of the bushes and leave enough room for them to spread out. In the beginning, it may seem like there is too much of a gap between them, but they need room to breathe and grow. I always plant mine with a southern exposure because they seem to handle the afternoon sun with less difficulty. These darling fusspots prefer a slightly acidic soil.

The most common disease that occurs in roses is powdery mildew, which is a white, powdery growth on leaves, shoots, and buds. This mildew is a fungus with microscopic spores that can spread the disease. A solution of baking soda and water can be sprayed on the leaves and branches, or you can try something stronger from your local nursery.

Another troublesome disease of roses is the black spot, which infects the leaves and reduces plant vigor. If this shows up, you need to remove diseased leaves, keep the foliage dry, and use a good fungicidal spray. If it’s not kept in check, black spot can spread to other plants, so it needs to be nipped in the bud as soon as you see it. Vinegar, water, and baking soda spray are good alternatives to the chemical sprays. Extended periods of moisture is the primary culprit causing black spot.

One more dastardly fungus is rose rust. If you turn over your rose leaves and find what look like clusters of orange powder stuck to the bottom, your rose bush has the rust. This fungus can spread through water or air, though it only affects roses. Again, pick off all the offending leaves and use a good fungicide.

Rose aphids, should they arrive, can be controlled with a solution of water and soap (such as Ivory). One tablespoon of soap with one quart of water, applied with a spray bottle, should do the trick.

For me, the benefits of roses outweigh the negatives. Their array of colors, abundance of blooms, and long flowering period make them fantastic, and they give such a high ornamental value to your garden and landscaping. Don’t let their reputation intimidate you!

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Why We Cry Tears of Sorrow, Tears of Joy

Do you ever wonder why we cry? If you’ve ever stopped to think about it, you’ll be able to recognize that there are tears of happiness as well as tears of loss or melancholy. Naturally, we all prefer tears of contentment and pride. These are the tears that cheer us up and make us glad that we’re alive. Tears of sadness can work one of two ways. Some people feel worse after crying over disappointment or loss. Others insist that there is nothing as soul-cleansing as a good old-fashioned crying jag.

Whatever our reasons for crying, it is always an emotional trigger that brings these salty drops to our cheeks, reddening our eyes and swelling our nasal passages. For some of us, crying results in the hiccups, in more crying, or at least in some embarrass ment. Crying is a natural process, though, and sometimes it is the only option we have to express our strong emotions.

I have seen grown men cry, though not often. It is a disturbing sight for someone like me, as I grew up among men who seemed like solid steel. This was a group of men identified by Tom Brokaw as “the greatest generation.” They simply did not cry when anyone was looking, so we all naturally assumed that the male portion of the human population didn’t cry at all, though I’m sure they had plenty to cry about at times!

The one and only time I saw our father cry was after he received news that his best friend had passed away suddenly. Dad went immediately to the barn, and I sneakily followed him. Peeking through an open window, I encountered the most disturbing sight I had seen in my young life. There stood our dad, crying like a baby. Deflated to have seen him in such a downcast manner, I ran back to the house and never spoke about it. When I did see him about an hour later, he seemed fully recovered and very dignified again.

Many women were and still are champion criers. Perhaps we’re more emotionally wired to let our tear ducts flow when the time is right, or perhaps we just feel more comfortable letting it out. There is nothing shameful or undesirable about crying! Have you seen the movie “Steel Magnolias”? Now, that is a real tearjerker. I have been able to watch it only one time. I suppose that story is too familiar or cuts too close to home for some of us.

Our mother cried tears of joy when she saw her firstborn son fly over our family farm in the late 1950s. He had made arrangements with his pilot buddy to fly over, dip their wings, circle, dip their wings one more time, and then fly on. Although she knew in advance that this event was going to take place, she was so overwhelmed by it that she cried for nearly an hour. Those were tears of pride and happiness, and I’m so glad she had that opportunity to see our brother spread

his wings.

Tears of physical pain must be acknowledged, too. Sometimes, when we are experiencing tremendous pain, there seems no way to prevent or stop crying. Pain is a lonely place, filled with such uncertainty. We don’t know what will happen to us next or what the outcome will be for us.

Not to be forgotten are the tears of a broken heart or as the result of getting our feelings hurt. These tears and their triggers are just awful. Nobody enjoys hurt feelings, and we often are left with a bitter taste afterwards. After the “big cry,” we may feel self-doubt and a lack of trust toward others and toward ourselves and our own judgment. The best move to make is to have a thorough weep. Cry it out before starting to rebuild your pride and confidence.

Of course, we all know that tears of joy and happiness are the best tears that there are. This kind of tearing up feels good and always has a good outcome. If you are a big crier, like some of my friends and relatives, be sure to always carry lots of tissues wherever you go. If you’re lucky enough to be married to a farmer (or a craftsman), this may be taken care of for you—they always have huge cotton handkerchiefs in their pockets that soak up extra amounts of those salty tears. Just be sure to kindly launder it for him before returning it to his stash of hankies! I hope you only have good tears in the future.

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— Dwaine Ferguson, Owner

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Heafey, Hoffmann, Dworak & Cutler

Celebrating life since 1852. Heafey, Hoffmann, Dworak & Cutler provide caring and compassionate funeral and cremation services to the families in our area. Our staff and directors are committed to serving families by solving problems and providing personal satisfaction.

We have expanded our facilities and staff over the past 13 years to meet the growing funeral service and cremation needs of today’s families. Being family-owned and -operated for four generations is one of the cornerstones of our development.

Every detail is considered in planning a meaningful tribute to your loved one. Though not a complete list of our services, the following are several that are available: traditional service, graveside service, memorial service, and “celebration of life” service.

Mobility City of Omaha

We help seniors, veterans, and the disabled (both young and old) achieve independence with mobility equipment such as rollators, walkers, wheelchairs, mobility scooters, powerchairs, and lift chairs.

At Mobility City we carry top brands of mobility equipment for purchase at com

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Prairie Meadows Memory Care, Assisted Living

Whether your loved one requires some help with the activities of daily living or is living with the effects of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, our dedicated staff takes great pride in delivering high-quality care that is compassionate, safe, and resident-centered. Our services are designed to meet our residents’ physical, emotional, and spiritual needs 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We offer enriching activities, exciting social programs, wellness classes, restaurant-quality meals, and more.

If you would like to learn more about all the amenities that our community offers, we invite you to take a tour and speak with our caring and friendly staff. Call 402-391-2790.

Abrahamson Law Office

Abrahamson Law Office is a family-oriented law practice, a father-daughter owned firm that helps clients with family law issues and helps families with a variety of other legal issues. The attorneys and staff at Abrahamson Law Office are committed to helping people navigate the law and legal process in ways that our clients can understand. We are proud that Hugh has maintained a working relationship with the Mexican Consulate here in Omaha for decades, and we are committed to maintaining an inclusive environment.

Call 402-758-1222 and talk to Tanya or Joanna to schedule a consultation. We would love to help you.

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True to Me

Choosing Myself

Over the years, I have written a lot in this column about the importance of making a decision. As we know, nothing really changes in our lives until we make a commitment to go down a better path.

In my life, I have made some good decisions and some bad decisions. As the years in my life proceed, I’ve noticed that I am looking at situations differently than I did in the past. Back in the day, my goal was to make sure everyone in my life was happy. I was the strong one. I was the caretaker. I was the fixer. I made my decisions based on what would be best for everyone else. There is a big problem with this approach.

“Every decision you make reflects your evaluation of who you are.” –Marianne Williamson

Ouch! That one really hurt. What did my method of decision-making say about what I thought about myself? I realized that I felt everyone else was more important than me. I realized that I had spent the majority of my life trying to make everyone else happy. I realized that, in the end, I was hoping that if I gave everyone else everything that they wanted from me, they would be happy. It doesn’t work that way!

“Sometimes you don’t realize you are actually drowning when you are trying to be everyone else’s anchor.” – Anonymous

Janet Van deWalle, National Publisher

By Janet Van deWalle

This was a big revelation, but here’s the part that I really wasn’t prepared for…those people in my life who were used to me jumping through every hoop to please them didn’t much like it when I started taking care of me . I had trained them very well to expect me to come to their rescue, to do whatever it took to make their day…regardless of the consequences to my own well-being.

“Don’t set yourself on fire to keep others warm.” –Anonymous

As we know, every decision has many possible outcomes. Some we see; some we don’t. Some feel great, and others make us feel as if we have been sucker-punched. Since I’ve changed my approach to making decisions, I’ve had each of these outcomes occur. The good thing is that I have learned so much about myself and about others in my life.

This path of making “selfish” decisions can be a rocky road. I will tell you this, though: It’s your time to seek your joy and follow your bliss. Go for it!

“Sometimes in life, you have to make a selfish decision and do what’s best for you.” – Saquon Barkley

Lessons Learned at Funerals Take the Time to Show You Care

In the past few months, I’ve attended the funerals of several longtime friends. Each passing carried mixed emotions, including sadness that they were gone and a sense of relief that they were no longer in pain. While each had experienced some mental or physical decline in the last few months, they passed in relative peace.

For various reasons, I wasn’t in close touch with these friends in their final years, months, and days. We moved to a different neighborhood or town. We were no longer engaged in the activities (kids, work) that had started our friendship. Our lifestyles changed. I was busy. Each funeral provided me with the opportunity to get reacquainted with their kids…now all adults with children of their own. Each funeral and each “reconnection” taught me a lesson.

Don’t ignore the impulse to make contact! Take the time to pay a visit…especially when a friend is in a facility, be it 55+ apartments, assisted living, or memory care. Pick up the phone; knowing you’re thinking of them may be just the thing they need that day. Send a cheery card with updates on your activities and ask them how they’re doing. A hand-written greeting can become a keepsake and brighten yet another day. Every time you make contact, even with those who are still active, you may be easing the sense of loneliness that attacks all

By Marge Shoemaker

of us at times. At the least try to keep in contact electronically, through email, texts, or social media.

Some mourners left their children at home, commenting, “Kids are too young to experience the sadness of such loss.” Others brought their children, allowing them to say goodbye to an elderly friend. One lady complained about little kids making noise and being too active. Another commented that having youngsters there eased some of the sadness. A young man commented that he hadn’t been allowed to attend his grandfather’s funeral. “I never got to tell him good-bye or even grieve his loss,” he recalled. “I remember feeling abandoned when Grandpa died.” He took his kids to visit their grandmother in the nursing home and brought them to her funeral. “Kids need to know what it’s like,” he commented. “Death is part of life.” It’s a decision each family has to make for themselves…you know your kids best.

We all want to make things easier for the grieving family. Some supply food, allowing the family to concentrate on other things. Offering to contact mutual friends is another way to help. With so many details to handle, the fear of forgetting to let someone know is always there. Ask if there’s anyone special you should contact. Encourage those you reach to attend and pay their respects, even if they didn’t know the deceased. Taking the time to show you care is a comfort to the survivors.

A Few Words From One Of Our Advertisers:

“I began advertising with Women’s Edition starting with the November 2019 issue and I have been thrilled with the results! I’ve had numerous new clients come to the gallery because they saw my ads in Women’s Edition, even as I’ve been working by appointment in recent months due to the pandemic. Most had never been to downtown Ralston, where I’m located, so introducing them to our town and what we have to offer has been another benefit!

The advertising has resulted not only in sales, but also in new followers on my social media platforms and new newsletter subscribers. Together with their outstanding customer service and sales results, advertising with Women’s Edition has been one of the best investments I’ve ever made for my business. Thank you, Women’s Edition!”

—Debra Joy Groesser

Tires 101 What You Need to Know

Tires…they get you where you need to go, but they don’t last forever! Naturally, you need to know as much about them as you can before it’s time to choose new ones. You don’t want to be at the shop already when you realize you don’t really know anything about tires! We are here to help clear up some of the misinformation about tires and give you the vital information you need.

The general consensus is that tires should be replaced about every six years, but that calculation assumes that you drive an average of 10,000 to 12,500 miles per year. It is better to decide to purchase new tires based on the actual number of miles you have driven on your old tires. Most experts recommend 60,000 to 75,000 maximum miles before replacing your tires.

Tires take a lot of wear and tear and should always be treated with respect, regardless of the type you choose for your vehicle. Remember, your tires have an impact on your driving performance and how well the automobile drives. When you first got your present tires, they were probably “standard” tires. These are well-balanced tires that can adequately handle a wide variety of road conditions. In most cases, these are the type of tires that drivers will need.

In some areas of the country, drivers require “snow” tires. These tires have a more significant tread and provide optimum grip during slippery road conditions. If you live in an area where you have to drive on ice and snow, then snow tires are for you. Snow tires are not necessarily a year-round situation, so you would need standard tires, as well.

By Linda Sutherland

Remember that tire pressure changes. In the winter, cold temperatures can lower air pressure. In the summer, warm weather increases tire pressure. Checking tire pressure is simple—your mechanic can show you how.

Experts recommend that you rotate your tires every 5,000 miles to extend their life expectancy. You should have your wheels balanced when you have them rotated. Tire balancing ensures that all the tires are supporting a vehicle’s weight equally. Experts also recommend having your tires aligned every six months.

Buying tires is not as complicated as it sounds, but attention must be paid to making sure you purchase quality tires.

If you happen to be a sports car fan, you probably are familiar with “summer” tires. These tires are hyper-sensitive to temperature and are not recommended for use when temperatures are likely to fall below forty degrees.

I have always wondered if you need to replace all four tires—or can you get by with just changing out one or two? According to vehicle manufacturers, you should replace all four tires at the same time. There is a reason for this…tires at different stages of wear do not spin at the same rate. This is especially important if your automobile has all-wheel drive. Realistically, cars with front-wheel drive can have two replaced at a time. However, make sure that the new tires are placed on the rear wheels and the older tires go in the front.

What measures can you take to extend the life of your tires? Most importantly, check your tire pressure monthly. Incorrect air pressure can cause sluggish handling, increase stopping distance, and increase wear and tear in general.

If a newer tire is damaged, it may be possible to repair it. Let’s say you get a sudden puncture wound from a nail. If the tire puncture is in the tread area, the tire can probably be repaired. However, if the puncture is in the sidewall or shoulder of the tire, you need to replace the tire. Just a reminder: sealants for a tire are only meant for a temporary fix, not a permanent fix. Sealants should never be used for long-term repair. Sometimes, you just have to accept that you need new tires. You can use an official tread depth indicator to determine when your tires need to be replaced. You can find these devices at automotive stores or even hardware stores.

What are the pros and cons of inflating tires with nitrogen? Nitrogen escapes from a tire more slowly than air. It can keep your tire pressure more consistent and can actually reduce wear and tear on the tire. However, it is more expensive than air. You cannot put normal air in your tires once you start using nitrogen, so maintaining nitrogen-filled tires can take a little more work or professional help.

Buying tires is not as complicated as it sounds, but attention must be paid to making sure you purchase quality tires. Safety, of course, is the first quality of good tires. Do not ignore the maintenance and upkeep of your tires! They need attention to stay in tip-top shape.

Sources for this article included: drivingline.com, nerdwallet.com, and quora.com.

Albracht Perma-Siding & Window Co. Home Improvement Solutions

Home ownership is rewarding and is often one of life’s most significant financial investments. Maintenance and home improvement are essential to preserving a home’s value but can seem overwhelming at times. Do you dread the thought of painting your home or window trim? Does your deck need to be stained? Do your gutters and downspouts get clogged with leaves? Are you looking for solutions? Albracht Perma-Siding & Window Co. is ready to help you with high-quality products that will save you time and improve your home’s exterior.

A family-owned business for over 70 years, Albracht Perma-Siding & Window Co. began in the 1950s. Al Albracht worked in the home improvement industry for several years before deciding to purchase a franchise location of the well-known Perma-Stone Company. Perma-Stone installed cultured, colored stone on the front of homes. The company transitioned from stone to aluminum siding, then steel siding, and eventually vinyl siding. The business grew to include roofing, storm doors, and windows. It was renamed Albracht Perma-Siding & Window Co. in the early 1970s to reflect the expanded service offerings.

Tom Albracht worked for his father at Albracht Perma-Siding & Window Co. in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Tom aspired to become a professional golfer and spent two years as an apprentice and assistant at a local country club before pursuing a different career path. He was a sales representative for a national company for several years and was offered a promotion. However, the offer required relocating, and Tom and his new wife, Kristi, did not want to move. His dad was ready to retire at that same time and asked Tom to take over the business.

The timing was right, and Tom was ready for the challenge, so he purchased the business from his father in 1987. “I always knew I could sell, and I received good sales training and learned time-management skills during my time as a sales representative,” Tom recalls. Tom and his brother Steve, Marketing Director, now run the business together.

The company’s product line gradually expanded and now includes vinyl siding, roofing, decks, doors, windows, and a gutter protection system. “Vinyl siding provides the best value for your home. It has withstood the test of time, it’s attractive, and it’s durable,” Tom says. “Vinyl windows are very energy-efficient and provide the best value for your money.” Composite decks provide durability and low maintenance. The company offers ProVia doors and windows, and the doors are made of 20-gauge commercial-grade steel. The Leaf Sentry gutter protection system fits existing gutters to prevent gutter and downspout clogs.

Why choose Albracht Perma-Siding & Window Co.? One reason is that the company purchases its products

By Angella Arndt

directly from manufacturers, which benefits its clients. “For example, as a direct dealer for ProVia, we get competitive pricing and can take better care of our clients because we don’t go through a distributor,” Tom notes. Although independent trade contractors install the products, Tom affirms that Albracht Perma-Siding & Window Co. guarantees the work. Tom and Steve take pride in providing outstanding customer service. “We are responsive to our clients’ needs. We set realistic expectations and we don’t overpromise. My dad always said that if you take care of your customers, your customers will take care of you. We have a lot of customers, but I have also made a lot of friends.”

Tom offers some advice for homeowners in the process of hiring a home improvement company. First of all, find out how long the company has been in business. Ask about their track record. The company should inspire a feeling of trust. “Trust is a big deal. We have over 70 years of experience in the business.” Ask questions to ensure the company will meet your needs. How much experience do they have with your type of project? What is their availability? Ask for references. Additionally, the company you select should be licensed, bonded, and insured. Asking questions in advance will help you hire the contractor who is best able to meet your needs.

Tom enjoys meeting and interacting with people and finds his work rewarding. “We live and work doing things the right way. Our products provide attractive and durable home improvement solutions.” Tom remarks that much of their business is referral-based. “We improve people’s homes, but we are also improving their lives by giving them more time to do things they enjoy.”

Albracht Perma-Siding & Window Co. is located at 10723 Mockingbird Drive, in Omaha. The office and showroom are by appointment only. Call 402-331-4666 for more information or to schedule an appointment. You can find them online at permasiding.com.

L-R: Tom and Steve Albracht

Tidbits of Discovery The Nebraska History Museum

Have you ever asked yourself, “Am I smarter than a fourth grader?” In Nebraska’s public schools, fourth graders learn about Nebraska’s history, including details about geography, early settlers, and the state’s unique government structure. Many of them take a field trip to visit various sites in the state, including the Capitol or the Nebraska History Museum in Lincoln. The Nebraska History Museum reflects the 12,000 years of history of our land and its cultures. If this history sounds vague to you, pencil in a field trip to Lincoln before the kids go back to school this fall.

Chris Goforth, a Nebraska native with a marketing and communications background, is the museum’s marketing director. He is eager to talk about the museum’s collections and the history of the land we call home. The museum’s entire staff realize the importance of telling the stories of the people who came before us. “What we are now is the result of people like us in the past—explorers, discoverers, people who

By Kate Beiting

wanted to live and grow and eat and learn,” Chris points out. “Learning from the past can prepare us for what we want to see ahead of us.”

One of the current offerings at the museum is a traveling exhibit from the Smithsonian called Righting a Wrong: Japanese Americans and World War II. “The Smithsonian has a strenuous checklist and expectations before they allow one

A Few Words From One of Our Advertisers:

“As an advertiser in Women’s Edition since March of 1996, I’d like to take this opportunity to say how pleased we are with the results we have received from being involved with the magazine. Women’s Edition offers a very professional and effective format that allows us to get the message out to women (even men) regarding all the services we provide. We continue to see consistent potential patients flow to our practice from our marketing in Women’s Edition.”

Chris Goforth, Marketing Director

of their exhibits to travel outside of their home museum,” Chris shares. “We appreciate the trust they have placed in us.” On display until October 1, the exhibit tells the story of the period in American history after Pearl Harbor when people of Japanese descent were moved to incarceration sites. Hard to believe? History is often not pretty. “We have had many people viewing this exhibit comment that they were not taught this in school,” Chris says. “Even some people of Japanese descent have told us that their parents or grandparents did not discuss this part of the America that they knew. We are excited to offer this piece of history to people who may not be familiar with this era in America’s past.”

What do you know about Nebraska, this land, its people, its geography, its history? What do you know about the state before it was a state? Do you follow the many roadside signs that highlight a past event? Have you experienced the writings of Nebraska Poet Laureate John Neihardt? Have you read accounts of the last document that Abraham Lincoln signed before he went to Ford’s Theatre? (Hint: it had to do with Nebraska.)

“History is not just in books,” Chris asserts. “It is all around us.”You are living history right now. Today, as you are walking in your neighborhood, or driving down the road, or playing baseball in the local ball field, think about life in this place 100 or 200 years ago. Can you envision the folks who lived here before us? Have you thought about the fur trappers and traders who explored the West? What about the no -

mad tribes or the settlers who walked their way West? What animals were here? Did you know that the Midwest was an ocean millions of years before it was the plains?”

In addition to the artifacts and pictures on display in the building, the museum also has a wealth of collections available on their website. This was a silver lining of pandemic shutdowns, Chris recalls. “We all hunkered down and converted thousands of items to digital. Now, with a click or two, you are able to research and view items that had been in storage.” The museum has a variety of continuing educational opportunities for children and adults. “We have over 125,000 objects in our collections and continue to collect items that tell Nebraska history.”

“Take some time to visit us with your family,” Chris invites. “We will show you how history is alive…how it teaches us about not just our past but our present and future, as well. We have stories that show us how it was, mistakes and all.”

Pack up your family and journey into Nebraska’s past this summer. If you have a fourth grader, they might be able to take the lead! The Nebraska History Museum is waiting for you at 131 Centennial Mall North in Lincoln. Museum hours are Tuesday through Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The museum is closed on Sundays, Mondays, and holidays. For more information on visiting the museum, volunteering, or supporting the museum’s mission in other ways, go to history.nebraska.gov or call 402-471-4782.

A Family Law Firm With

Eyes are Precious Get an Annual Exam

By Deborah Daley

One of my favorite phrases is, “The eyes are the windows to the soul.” Usually, it describes a deep connection with someone. To me, it also reinforces the importance of our eyes. These precious organs allow us to see and understand our beautiful world and the people around us. Through our eyes, we have both sight and vision.

It is important to understand that our eyes combine sight and vision, working together in a marvelous synergy. Sight is physical—a sensory experience in which light reflects off of objects before it is focused by the eyes. Signals are sent to the brain to be converted into images. Vision is how the mind, an aspect of the brain, interprets these images.

Sight is arguably the most important sense for safety and self-preservation. How safe would you be if you couldn’t see an approaching car? Eyesight also allows you to make quick assessments of whatever situation comes your way. This helps with overall health and intelligence.

Nearly all Americans believe their eye health is just as important as the health of their heart, but nearly half of people in their 20s and 30s think they don’t need an eye exam if their vision is clear. They need to reconsider.

Through an eye exam, more than 270 systemic and chronic diseases can be identified, including diabetes, high blood pressure, autoimmune diseases, and cancers. In fact, getting a comprehensive eye exam is the only way to visualize the blood vessels behind the eye for issues without invasive imaging like an x-ray or CT scan.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 4.2 million Americans aged 40 years and older are legally blind or have low vision. Many eye diseases are indeed age-related, such as cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, age-related degeneration, and glaucoma. Other common eye disorders include amblyopia and strabismus.

Experts agree that a yearly eye exam is recommended. Children can have exams as early as six months of age, but a good target is to start when they enter school, around age 4 or 5 years.

An eye exam is more comprehensive than a simple vision screening. It includes several elements. Preliminary tests evaluate your peripheral vision, depth perception, color vision, eye muscle movements, and pupil reaction to light. A visual acuity test (like a vision screening) evaluates how clearly each eye sees. A reading chart is frequently used for this test. If you have a current optical prescription, it will be evaluated to see if any changes could deliver clearer eyesight.

An eye focusing test determines how well your eyes move,

focus, and work together. A digital image of the retina will be taken. The intraocular pressure test (IOP) is that puff of air in each eye. It may not provide your favorite sensation, but it is vitally important for diagnosing such conditions as glaucoma and corneal disease.

Your eye doctor will use a slit lamp to get a magnified view of the many different structures at the front of the eye and inside it. Ophthalmoscopy uses a bright handheld light to assess the health of the back of the eyes. It can detect cataracts, retinal detachment, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.

When scheduling your annual appointment, it is important to know which type of eye professional you need. Optometrists perform eye exams and vision tests, prescribe and dispense corrective lenses, detect eye abnormalities, and prescribe medications for eye diseases. Ophthalmologists, on the other hand, are medical doctors. To become an ophthalmologist, you must attend medical school and complete a residency in ophthalmology. Ophthalmologists can provide all the services that optometrists can. In addition, ophthalmologists are licensed to practice medicine and perform surgery.

There have been numerous recent technical advancements in refractive and laser eye surgery. These procedures reshape the cornea so the light passing through can be focused on the retina. Other corrective surgeries replace the lens of the eye.

LASIK (laser in-situ keratomileusis) reshapes the underlying corneal tissue to focus light into the eye and reach the retina. The surgery is good for patients who are nearsighted, farsighted, or have astigmatism. PRK (photorefractive keratectomy) uses a laser to reshape the cornea. Unlike LASIK, PRK only reshapes the surface of the cornea. It is good for mild to moderate nearsightedness, farsightness, or astigmatism.

Laser eye surgery is suitable for most adults whose eye prescription has stayed more or less the same for two years. LASIK surgery should last a lifetime. Eyes can change, but vision will never be as bad as before the surgery.

Our eyes are a special gift! Take care of them and see your eye specialist annually.

Sources for this article included: cdc.gov, aoa.org, and aao.org.

Sight is arguably the most important sense for safety and self-preservation.

Sun Damage Protect Your Home From UV Rays

By Anne Yankus

We all know to put on sunscreen before going out to protect our skin from the sun’s rays, but what about protecting other things? Human bodies aren’t the only things the sun’s intense UV rays can damage. That list extends to many different things—including the exterior and even interior of your home.

Several parts of your home’s exterior are susceptible to damage from UV rays, but the ones you’ll want to watch most closely are your roof, exterior paint, and any wooden structures (like decks or siding) or furniture. Roof damage can take many forms, including deterioration (when chemicals break down), blistering, damaged sealants, and thermal damage (when seated roofing contracts too quickly). Paint is prone to color fading over time or can denature in a way that causes it to look chunky or dusty. Wood will gradually dry out with extended exposure to the sun, and some types can even darken or bleach over time.

Many of these may seem like minor issues, but they can become costly in a hurry. Ignoring them will only negatively affect your home maintenance budget, resale value, and curb appeal. Some issues, like roof damage, can cause serious quality of life issues. Fortunately, we live in a world of innovation and technology, so there are many options out there that can help protect your home from sun damage.

Home interiors can be protected simply by installing

window films and using UV-resistant paints and floor finishes. Furniture and window dressings made of synthetic and blended fabrics also tend to fade slower than natural fabrics such as cotton. If you’re really attached to your natural fiber curtains or furnishings, you can purchase UV-repelling sprays, which will slow (but will not halt) color fading.

What about your artwork and framed photos? Standard glass panes won’t protect your art from UV rays. Consider swapping standard glass for conservation glass or UV-blocking acrylic to protect your precious items.

Protecting the exterior of a home can be a bit more complicated. The most low-tech solution is planting trees and shrubs around your home. If you’re not sure how to proceed, consult a professional landscaper. This pro should be able to help you with optimal sun-blocking placement and recommend the best plant species to thrive in your area.

Trees can provide a lot of shade, but they don’t provide complete protection from the sun. That’s where UV-resistant

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materials come in! The next time you replace your roof or your siding, look for materials rated for high UV resistance. Using lighter-colored paints like white or tan will reflect heat and sunlight. Choosing colors that are less susceptible to fading also helps.

For wood, both indoors and out, the best protection is paint or sealant. Sealant has many advantages. It will protect your wood furniture, flooring, deck, and so on from harmful UV rays. It will also protect them from spills while maintaining the beauty of the natural, uncovered wood grain.

The most common types of sealants on the market are varnish, lacquer, polyurethane, and shellac. Varnish is low in toxicity and easy to apply, but you’ll need to be patient—it has a slow drying time. It offers great UV protection and is ideal for applying to existing wooden furniture. Lacquer is solvent-based and easy to apply, polish, and repair. It has a fast drying time and gives furniture a high-gloss finish. However, lacquer does not play well with coarsely grained woods like oak or very soft woods like cedar.

Polyurethane is basically liquid plastic and is commonly used as a sealant on hardwood flooring. It comes in water-based or oil-based versions. Water-based polyurethane is clear, with low toxicity and a high price point. The oil-based version comes in a warm amber color that, while cheaper, is toxic in liquid form. Shellac is a natural product made from resin and alcohol, which makes it fast-drying but not as durable as other sealants. It’s best used on decorative items that won’t see a lot of wear and tear.

If you’re worried about losing your home’s natural lighting in your quest for UV protection—don’t be. As you have just read, there are many products and protections on the market that don’t involve planting lots of thick foliage, installing hefty shutters, or hanging sun-blocking curtains (though those do help). You can protect your home and furniture without losing a single ounce of window lighting by investing in UV-resistant materials, sealants, and sprays, and even by just rearranging your furniture regularly. It’s easy to achieve with the right know-how! You can have your sunlight and your undamaged home, too.

Sources for this article included: boulderhomesource.com, wawanesa.com, living. geico.com, and angi.com.

Cosmetic Dentistry

Share Your Best Smile

Do you like your smile? Are you happy with the appearance of your teeth, or are you self-conscious about smiling? If the condition of your teeth is stopping you from smiling as much as you’d like to, it’s time to consider cosmetic dentistry.

General dentistry refers to diagnosing, treating, and managing oral health needs such as tooth and gum care, oral hygiene, and preventative care. Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving tooth appearance, bite, or gums. Procedures improve a smile’s appearance with respect to things like tooth color, size, shape, and alignment.

Improving one’s smile is a benefit of cosmetic dentistry, but some procedures also provide oral health benefits. Missing or damaged teeth can make it difficult to speak clearly or chew food properly. Missing teeth can also lead to bone loss, shifting of remaining teeth, and sagging around the mouth. Popular cosmetic dental procedures include teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, and dental bonding. Other procedures include crowns, dentures, bridges, and implants.

Teeth whitening is one of the most common cosmetic dentistry procedures. It improves the look of teeth that have become discolored or stained from dark-colored foods and beverages, smoking, genetics, antibiotics, and aging. A dentist offers in-office or at-home whitening treatments. In-office whitening generally takes one or more office visits. If you prefer the at-home alternative, the dentist creates a custom tray to fit your teeth and provides a whitening gel for home use. Although over-the-counter teeth whitening products are available, the trays are not fitted to individual users. A poor fit means the gel may leak, resulting in irritated gums and making the treatment less effective.

Porcelain veneers can repair chips and cracks, hide uneven and oddly shaped teeth, and hide small gaps between teeth. Veneers are also an option for those who are not satisfied with the results of whitening. A small amount of tooth enamel is removed and several thin ceramic layers are applied with adhesive. Because of their material, veneers resist coffee, tea, and cigarette stains. Veneers are nearly indistinguishable from natural teeth because they are individually sculpted for patients.

Dental bonding can repair broken or chipped teeth, improve the appearance of oddly shaped teeth, and eliminate gaps between teeth. Bonding materials made of composite resin are molded and color-matched to provide natural-looking results. Less tooth enamel is removed with bonding as compared to veneers.

Dentures are removable appliances that replace missing teeth. Dentures are made using materials such as resin, acrylic, nylon, porcelain, and metal. Full dentures sit directly on the gums and are used when all teeth are missing. A denture

By Angella Arndt

adhesive may be needed to hold the denture in place. Partial dentures are used for those with several teeth missing in one or both jaws. Partial dentures use clasps that hook to remaining natural teeth for stability.

Dental crowns restore decayed, broken, or weak teeth. A tooth-shaped cap made of materials such as resin, porcelain, or metal is placed over the tooth and held in place with dental adhesive or cement. Crowns also hold dental bridges in place and cover dental implants and root canal-treated teeth.

Dental bridges replace one or several teeth missing in a row. A traditional dental bridge has dental crowns on each end with artificial teeth between them. This option works for those with healthy natural teeth on both sides of the tooth gap. An implant-supported bridge sits on top of dental implants.

Dental implants are used to replace diseased or injured teeth and for some dental bridges. A metal, screwlike post is surgically implanted into the jawbone, acting as the tooth’s root and bonding over time, preventing bone loss. When the implant heals, after approximately two to three months, a metal connector or abutment screws into the implant to hold the restoration in place. Dental implants can be used for crowns, bridges, or dentures.

When selecting a cosmetic dentist, several criteria should be considered. First, ask family and friends for referrals. Check to see if each dentist is accredited in cosmetic dentistry. Ask how much experience the dentist has in cosmetic dentistry and how much time they devote to this type of dentistry. Ask to see before and after photos so you can see their work. When you schedule a consultation, see if the dentist takes time to explain things and answer questions. Make sure you are comfortable with how the dentist and staff treat you. This will help you select the right cosmetic dentist to ensure you get the proper treatment and the results you desire.

Cosmetic dentistry offers so much more than an improved appearance! An enhanced smile boosts self-confidence and helps you look and feel your best.

Sources for this article included: my.clevelandclinic.org, dentalhealthsociety.com, fda.gov, jada.ada.org, and yoursmilebecomesyou.com.

Whose Fault Is It, Anyway? Around

and Around We Go!

Have you ever heard the phrase “blame feels better than guilt”? Think about it…when something bad happens in our lives, a common knee-jerk reaction is to point the finger at someone else. It’s not my fault! We are able to come up with multiple reasons…excuses…to get ourselves off the hook. This has a result we may not have considered: we’re giving away our power.

“When you blame others, you give up your power to change.”

—Robert Anthony

I have a very strong belief that we each create our own reality…the good, the bad, and the ugly. Now, this belief feels really good when life is going well. We pat ourselves on the back for the positives we have created. But life is not always positive. Life is not always happy. What do we do when life is so far away from perfect?

“Reach for a better-feeling thought.” —Abraham/Hicks

Too simple? Not really. Can a situation or a person influence you? Of course, but no one, and nothing, can make you unhappy. When something negative happens, we can choose to go over it again and again in our minds. We can choose to discuss the situation with anyone who will listen. Or we can choose to reach for a better-feeling thought.

By Janet Van deWalle

I have learned that it really is that simple! Reach for a better-feeling thought. A word of advice…put the bad situation or relationship on pause. Do not try to get to a better-feeling place with the problem. Instead, do whatever it takes to get your mind off of it. Go for a walk. Pet your cat. Watch a comedy. Listen to positive videos. Meditate. When all else fails, go to sleep. When you sleep, you are able to let go of the challenge and awaken in a better state of mind.

“The best bridge between despair and hope is a good night’s sleep.” —E. Joseph

Cossman

Getting your mind off of “it” will release stress and tension. When we make the decision to gravitate toward someplace better than where we are right now, we regain our power. We cannot control anyone else. We all know that. What we can do is control our own self-talk. We can control where we put our attention. For decades, I was on a hamster wheel, going around and around over the hurt, the injustice, the unfairness. It doesn’t do anyone any good…it simply keeps us stuck. No more!

“The best years of your life are the ones in which you decide your problems are your own. You do not blame them on your mother, the ecology, or the president. You realize that you control your own destiny.” —Albert Ellis

CREATE YOUR OWN ENVIRONMENT

In nature, evolution can require a process of thousands of years. At Curt Hofer & Associates, helping you to create your environment is second nature to us.

Bring your designs, your inspiration, your preferences, pictures and even pins. Together we’ll move through a process that lets you ease into a flawless execution of your ideal surroundings.

Contact us today to see why Curt Hofer & Associates has earned top awards for our iconic design and inspired living spaces for more than 30 years.

Please contact Curt Hofer & Associates today! For an appointment, visit curthofer.com or see our

at houzz.com/curthofer.