Women's Edition Omaha - January 2024 by Women's Edition Magazine

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Publisher’s Notes

Happy New Year! There is something about a new year that is like a breath of fresh air. It gives us all a new beginning… POOF! We get to start again. Our future is yet to be created! Manny and I are both looking forward to 2024, as we feel it’s going to be a great year. We hope the same for all of you. My wish for you this year is to take time for yourself. We all have very busy lives, and we tend to put ourselves on the back burner. I really believe this is a woman thing. We were trained by our mothers to take care of everyone else. We give…and give…and give…but at the end of the day, there is not a lot left for us. Eventually, something has got to give. Recognizing the need for self-care and then acting on it will make us all so much healthier…mentally, spiritually, and physically. We will be more balanced. I watch mothers today, and I don’t know how they do it. Back in my day, there were not so many scheduling demands. Sports were played at school. Now, it seems as if so many of our kids are involved in outside sports teams. Road trips—overnight!—to compete with other teams. Lots of practices all over the city. Schedules that would make even a top CEO feel overloaded. Somehow, these moms make it work. Again, though, I feel they are doing what we did…putting themselves on the back burner! The good news is that the dads of today seem to be stepping up to help so much more, which is terrific. I would like to end this column by sending happy birthday wishes to my daughter, Carissa, and my granddaughter, Savannah. Happy birthday, you two! Their birthdays are two days apart. Carissa had a goal of wanting to have her first child by the time she was 26. And just like most of the goals that Carissa has set for herself, she did it…Savannah was born two days before Carissa turned 26. January is also Manny’s mother, Martha’s, birthday. She will turn 81. Martha lives in Los Angeles, as does the rest of the Chavez family. She is surrounded by her four other adult children and their children. Happy birthday, Martha! Last, but not least, happy birthday to my nephew, Jesse. He is a really good man! Let’s make 2024 as happy and peaceful as we can…and make sure we move ourselves to the front burner!

Janet Van deWalle, National Publisher

Points of Interest Need your trees trimmed? Now is the time to call Absolute Tree Service. They are offering winter rates on all of their services. Their ad is on page 64. Need a fresh look in a room or the whole house? Bobbi Jo Cheek at Gotcha Covered of West Omaha would like to help you find just the right window treatments. Check out page 17 to see her ad. Frustrated that you are not hearing all of a conversantion? Huskerland Hearing Center is offering $800 off their advanced level hearing aids. See their ad on page 41. Status would like to consign your preloved handbags and select fashions. You can find their ad on page 29. Women’s Edition is Seeking Help. Are you a stay-at-home mom who would like to get out once in a while, get a little exercise? This position also works well for college students and retirees. We are looking for help with our distribution of Women’s Edition— around the 20th of each month, for one or two days. If you have a reliable vehicle, have no problem lifting 40 lbs., feel comfortable walking into multiple types of businesses, and know how to smile and enjoy yourself, this is a perfect job for you. Compensation for these territories range between $135- $145 per monthly distribution. Call Roxy at 402-397-0732.

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Positive Thought of the Month “I have come to believe that caring for myself is not self-indulgent. Caring for myself is an act of survival.”—Audre Lorde

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Inside This Edition 2 Publisher’s Notes 6 Weekend Gourmet

12 Business Style 16 A Woman’s Work Traveling to New York City is on many bucket lists, as it should be!

18 Healthy Living 20 Fresh Concept 22 The Market Place 24 Peak Performance 26 Good Looks At a healthy weight, your body operates more efficiently, and you’re likely to have more energy.

Focus on Finance

The Green Thumb

Enterprising Ideas

Business Connection

Income Outcome

Kids Comments

Auto Wise

Inside Look

Vantage Point

View From the Top

Home Works

Good Life

36 To Your Good Health 64

40 Seasons of Life

An organized home makes you feel better, saves time, and provides a calm, welcoming environment.

30 Interiors by Design 38 Great Escapes

With the ever-ready help of your vet to ensure proper feeding and vaccinations, the arrival of a holiday pet can lead to a long and loving relationship.

10 Fashion Worthy 15 Zodiac Forecast

Cuddly Critters

Positive Perspective

National Publisher/Editor Janet Van deWalle

Operations Manager Roxy Orr

Copy Editor Liz Huett

Women’s Edition 11550 West D o dg e R o ad • Omah a, NE 68154 • 402-397-0732 or 888-892-407 6 Women’s Edition is published by and is the property of Women’s Edition, Inc. Women’s Edition® The Magazine For Metropolitan Women is a registered trademark of Women’s Edition, Inc. (Reg. No. 2,501,858). All rights reserved. Women’s Edition has no affiliation with any other publication. Women’s Edition makes every effort to provide accurate information in advertising and editorial content, however, does not make any claim as to the accuracy of information provided by advertisers or editorial contributors and accepts no responsibility or liability for inaccurate information. Women’s Edition is not responsible for the accuracy of the QR codes appearing in our magazine. © Copyright 2024, Women’s Edition, Inc. All rights reserved. This material is for personal use only. Republication and redissemination in whole or in part is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of Women’s Edition, Inc.

January 2024

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Weekend Gourmet

Celebrating and Gathering—Let’s Eat!

By Kate Beiting

Griddle Cakes and Fruit Stew

For the griddle cakes: Whisk together 1 cup of flour, 1 Tablespoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 Tablespoon of sugar. In another bowl, melt 4 Tablespoons of butter and then add 1 cup of milk (or buttermilk) and 1 egg. Mix well. Add the wet ingredients to the dry and let sit for 5 minutes. Oil the cooking surface and make griddle cakes as usual. For the fruit stew: Put 1 or 2 cups of (any) frozen fruit mix into a bowl along with 2 Tablespoons of sugar. Microwave for 2–3 minutes. Stir. If the fruit is not saucy enough yet, microwave for another 1–2 minutes. (You can also heat this on the stovetop.)

Baked Salmon Dinner with Cream Sauce

Mix 1 cup of sour cream with 1/3 cup of chopped fresh dill (or 2 Tablespoons of dried dill), 2 Tablespoons of Dijon mustard, and 2 teaspoons of minced garlic. Add salt and pepper as desired. Salt and pepper the salmon filets (or one large piece of salmon) and place, skin side down, on an aluminum-lined or parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread 2–3 Tablespoons of the sauce over the fish and sprinkle on 2 or 3 cloves of minced garlic. Bake in a 350-degree oven for 10–15 minutes, until the salmon is opaque and flaky. Serve with the additional sauce.

Midnight Celebration Punch

In a large pitcher, mix together 2 cups of orange juice, 2 cups of cranberry juice, 1 cup of pineapple juice, and 1 bottle of Moscato or lemon-lime soda or ginger ale. Serve over ice.

Creamy Lemon Cheesecake

Mix 2 cups of graham cracker crumbs with 6 Tablespoons of

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melted butter, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. Grease the bottom and sides of a 10-inch springform pan. Spread the cracker mix into the pan. Place on a cookie sheet and bake for 10 minutes at 325 degrees. Cool. Mix together 4 packages of softened cream cheese and 1 cup of sugar. Beat for 2 or 3 minutes. Add 5 large room-temperature eggs, 1/2 cup of whipping cream, 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice, 2 Tablespoons of flour, 2 and 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla, 1 Tablespoon of grated lemon zest, and 1 teaspoon of lemon extract. Blend for 4–5 minutes on low, mixing thoroughly. Pour the mixture into the baked crust. Bake on a cookie sheet at 325 degrees for 50–60 minutes, until the center is set. Move to a wire rack to cool. Refrigerate overnight.

Pinwheel Pickups

Open 2 tubes of crescent roll dough and pat into rectangles. Fry and crumble 1 pound of ground chuck with chopped onion, garlic, and any seasonings you choose. Put the meat filling into the

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dough and roll up into a log. Pinch the edges shut. Cut into 1-inch pieces. Place on a lightly greased cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees until golden brown.

Pour the meat mixture over the potatoes. Cover and bake at 400 degrees for 20 minutes. Remove cover, add more cheese and onions if you like, and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes.

Quick Chicken Piccata

Holiday Open House Shrimp Chowder

Blend 1/4 cup of flour with seasonings of your choice—onion powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder. Cube 2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts and dredge the cubes in the flour mixture. Sauté a diced onion or shallot in 2 Tablespoons of oil and 2 Tablespoons of butter for about 5 minutes, until golden and aromatic. Add the chicken and sauté until golden. Add 1/2 cup of chicken broth, the juice of 1 lemon, and 2 Tablespoons of capers. Simmer until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees. Serve over cooked pasta or rice.

Melt 1 stick of butter in a large soup pot. Add 1/2 cup each of chopped celery, onion, and green or red pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes. Add 1 quart of Half and Half (or equal amounts of vitamin D milk and Half and Half), 1 can of corn (drained), 1 can of creamed corn, 1 can of cream of shrimp soup, 2 cans of cream of potato soup, 2 cans of cream of onion soup, and 1 teaspoon of Old Bay seasoning. Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring often. Add 1 can of Ro-Tel tomatoes and 1 bag of small frozen shrimp. Heat through for 5–10 minutes. Serve with crusty garlic bread or toast points.

Short Rib Feast

Killer Garlic Bread

Coat short ribs (2–3 pounds, cut the way you want) in flour and brown in 2 Tablespoons of oil. Set aside. Sauté 1 sliced onion until lightly browned. Add the ribs back to the pot. Add 1 cut-up celery stalk, 2 cut-up carrots, 2 cups of beef broth, and a squirt of ketchup. Add salt, pepper, and garlic as desired. Cover and place in the oven at 325 degrees for 4 hours or until the beef is falling off the bone.

Beef and Tots Hot Dish

Put 4 cups of tater tots in the bottom of an ungreased 9x13inch baking dish and bake at 400 degrees for 10 minutes. Remove from oven. While the tots are baking, cook and crumble 1 pound of ground beef. Stir in 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, salt and pepper as desired, 1 can of cream of broccoli soup, 1/3 cup of milk, 2 cups of chopped broccoli (fresh or frozen and thawed), 1 can of French fried onions, 1 cup of shredded cheese, and a chopped tomato, if desired.

Slice a large loaf of French or Italian bread horizontally and hollow out some of the middle. Mix together one 8-ounce package of softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup of sour cream, 1/3 cup of chopped green onion, a dash of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder or several cloves of minced garlic, and 2 cups of your favorite shredded cheese. Spread the mixture onto the bread and put the halves together. Brush a bit of melted herb butter on the loaf, wrap in foil, and bake at 350 degrees for 30–40 minutes.

Slow Cooker Meatballs

Prepare your favorite bite-size meatballs (or use a bag of frozen). Put the meatballs in a slow cooker. Add 1 cup of grape jelly, 1 small can of chunked pineapple, 1/2 of an onion (sliced), and salt and pepper to taste. Stir. Add 1 bottle of chili sauce. Stir to coat. Cook on low for 4 hours.

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Fashion Worthy

Bridal Rules for 2024

Make Your Wedding Day Your Own!

By Holly Bell

Renoir Photos courtesy of Well Suited @ Lindley Clothing

Not so long ago, getting married meant rocking a diamond ring, a princess bridal gown, and a fluffy veil. In the constantly evolving world of bridal styles and rules, the shift toward less traditional weddings and vows is strengthening. More brides want to express their personality and individuality in their choices. The traditional floor-length wedding dress, in a white luxury fabric, was initiated by Queen Victoria when she married Prince Albert in 1840. It’s about time we got creative again! Today’s brides want more freedom to experiment. Some of the most classic elements of bridal wear are changing, and the most significant of these is the pure white gown. Brides are choosing color! Most popular is the pastel family of blush pink, sky blue, or pale lavender, along with cream or ivory. Adding color is one of the most popular changes in the bridal scene. Designers are showing pale dresses with colorful sashes around the waist. Two-piece separates are gaining popularity because they offer the bride convertible ensembles for the event. Wear the bustier top with a long skirt for the wedding and then switch to a shorter, flirtier skirt for the reception. You could even switch to pants for another portion of the event. Two-piece dressing allows for multiple looks from one base dress. Another trending bridal revamp is the shorter gown. Ballerina length, midi, and even mini bridal dresses are finding their place at the table. Shorter dresses are perfect for dancing the night away at the after party! Many brides are looking into more eco-friendly choices for their wedding, and that includes what they wear. Bridal looks that reduce waste and carbon emissions are popular. Vintage gowns and pre-owned dresses, along with gowns chosen for their post-wedding wearability, are on the rise. All this modernism does not mean that brides have given up on the glamour of the event. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. Corsets, shiny or shimmering fabrics, florals, sheer illusion, and luxury embellishments such as feathers, crystals, and sequins are just some of the popular bridal design elements of today. Bridal accessories are an important part of the ensemble. How many brides have you seen dancing at the reception without their shoes? As it turns out, some of those white pumps aren’t as comfortable as they look. Many brides are choosing comfort as the more common-sense approach by wearing sneakers, boots, or even flip-flops adorned with wedding-day embellishments. With all the gown choices available to brides today, the thing to remember is that the choice is hers—even if her choice is a timeless, classic gown. Simplicity never goes out of style! Brides who are into the classic look might choose a bias-cut slip gown, an A-line dress, or a fitted sheath. They’re called “classics” for good reason! 10

January 2024

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Since a wedding dress is likely to be the most expensive gown you will ever purchase, there are many things to consider. First and foremost is choosing the style that best flatters your figure. A small waist looks even smaller when a full skirt flows from the waistline. A large bust looks more tapered down in a halter dress that accentuates good shoulders. Consider what you want to accentuate about your figure and what you want to skim over. Look for ideas in wedding magazines and celebrity wedding photos. These tend to set trends and influence designers. Brace yourself for bridal sizing before you head to the boutique! Your gown may be two sizes larger than your usual dress size. Bridal dresses run quite small. Even if you are planning to lose weight before the wedding, buy the gown that fits you now. It is easy to take in a gown but almost impossible to let one out. When choosing a bridal gown, consider the location of your wedding. A garden wedding may be more casual than a formal church wedding. A destination wedding may dictate your dress choice entirely. If you are having a themed wedding, this too will play into the dress style. Have a clear vision of how you want to feel on your wedding day. Do you want to feel romantic, glamorous, classic, modern, or comfortable? Deciding on this before dress shopping can narrow down a search that is bound to be overwhelming. No matter what you choose to wear, enjoy your wedding day! Eat some protein for breakfast to sustain you. Savor each minute. The day will go by quickly, and you want to remember every special moment. Don’t stress over small details. Things that do not go quite as planned will be amusing moments to remember fondly later, when you’re looking at photos of yourself in that fantastic dress.

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SuperSlow Zone

Changing Lives in 20 Minutes

By Deborah Daley

People want many things from life, but studies and surveys have shown that good health and well-being are very important to most of us. As we age, we may start to notice that our strength and flexibility are waning. Our ability to be strong and healthy is being compromised at the very time we want to enjoy life! If you’re eager to improve your health but don’t want to spend a lot of time sweating in a gym, you need to check out SuperSlow Zone.

SuperSlow Zone is a premium wellness and exercise franchise with facilities all over the world. Julie Galloway is the owner and president of Omaha’s studio. “I got into this business about 13 years ago,” she says. “I was seeing the frustration on people’s faces as they aged and they couldn’t do the things they wanted to do.” Julie is a grandmother herself and knows that many of her customers come to her program because they want to enjoy playing with their grandchildren, travel, and do anything else they want to do—without their health interfering. “I was interested in health and fitness, so I visited the SuperSlow Zone headquarters in Florida. I was sold because the program they offer is truly life-changing.” The program consists of 20-minute strength training workouts. This full-body training provides upper-body, lower-body, and core exercise focused on the individual’s needs. “Our training is quick and effective,” Julie shares. “Each minute is supervised by an accredited, certified instructor who personalizes the session so you have a completely, safe, total-body workout.” The program is certified by the International Accreditors for Continuing Education and Training (IACET). This is the certification program for many prestigious organizations such as the National Institutes for Health and the American Heart Association. “The other beauty of this program is that the 20-minute workout fits into very busy lifestyles. Everyone has 20 minutes to spare to take care of themselves! You spend very little time in the fitness facility, but the time you do spend is targeted directly to you, and you have your own trainer with you every step of the way.” Of course, Julie notes, some people are skeptical that a 20-minute workout can bring the results that they desire. She emphasizes that it’s not 20 minutes of any old exercise you choose. “The name of our company is intentional. High-intensity, low-impact weight training is done at a slow pace and designed specifically for the focused areas you need which adds to the efficiency and safety aspect of the workout. You get the most out of the exercise and you accomplish a great deal in a short amount of time.” The protocol emanated from a scientific study done in the 1980s on exercise programs and weight loss, especially 12

January 2024

with people who were experiencing L/R: Owner Julie Galloway and client health issues due to osteoporosis. The benefits are well documented and include improved cardiovascular fitness, greater muscle strength, increased metabolism, greater endurance and stamina, and optimum fat loss while maintaining muscle tone. Julie reminds us that results and benefits don’t happen overnight—but they do happen! To help you keep an eye on your results and your goals, she says, “we offer performance-tracking software that reports your progress and shows the differences that are being made.” After your free initial consultation, you can sign up for three different monthly packages, based on your individual needs: once a week, twice a week, or six times a month. “We design a program customized to you and to your monthly commitment,” Julie explains. “Unlike other gyms or fitness programs, SuperSlow Zone is one-to-one and geared to your safety. You always have an instructor with you, setting up your equipment, guiding your training, and providing encouragement.” When Julie sees the life-changing impact on SuperSlow Zone’s clients, it brings joy to her heart. “Our business has grown because people are seeing a difference and letting others know about our services,” she proudly shares. “That is the best marketing possible.” One of those satisfied clients is Dianna Beulke of Omaha. “I firmly believe in SuperSlow Zone because the trainers take each person individually,” Dianna says. “They make sure that the machines are set up correctly for your body type and fitness goals. I started there to help my back pain and build my core strength. I continue because I can see the results. Working out just 20 minutes, twice a week, has greatly improved my physical and mental health.” Start your 20-minute journey toward better health! Get more information and set up your free consultation at superslowzone.com. You can also call 402-708-5679. The facility is located at 17785 Mason Street, in Omaha.

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Zodiac Forecast

CAPRICORN (December 21 – January 19) Expect important relationships to take center stage this month. Unfortunately, this is a time when nothing seems to come easily. Relationships are fraught with trouble, delays, and uncertainty. If things don’t feel right, pull back and follow your instincts. Many issues need some time to settle. Aquarius (Jan. 19 – Feb. 19) More than ever, you are interested in creating a healthy balance in your relationships. Take time for fun and relaxation. Your personal charm is strong now, allowing you to feel confident about what’s to come! Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 21) Personal freedom is your driving force, and you may want to say good-bye to old and limiting relationships. Life is short. Live it fully! Be strong and do what’s wise for you. Aries (March 21 – April 20) Delays and obstacles may try your patience more than usual this month. Don’t start a new project until you finish the old one—it’s important to do things in the right order. You’ll be in a better place to move ahead. Taurus (April 20 – May 21) You’ve been making mistakes lately, and it doesn’t seem like much fun. Keep in mind that you can learn a lot from mistakes; personal failure can lead to finding new strength. Hang in there and know that you will eventually succeed. Gemini (May 21 – June 21) Stay open to new possibilities, even if they appear risky. Some of your friends may say that you are moving too fast. It’s best to trust your instincts now; you will be incredibly lucky if you allow your heart to guide you! Cancer (June 21 – July 23) There is going to be a lot of drama in your universe this month. You will likely be pulled into a difficult scenario concerning others. To survive the deep waters around you, keep your thoughts high and your chin up. Don’t get involved.

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Leo (July 23 – August 23) Chaos reigns this month, with someone or something in your recent past about to rise up and bite you. Expect an unpleasant encounter with others. You may have to explain yourself to someone or clear up a simple misunderstanding. Virgo (August 23 – Sept. 23) Stressful relationship situations are destined to surface this month, but your communication skills will help you smooth things over. Sometimes, life has a way of just drifting merrily down the stream. Other times, you hit rocks. Share your thoughts to help maneuver around obstacles. Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22) As a Libra, your life often revolves around others. This month, let others help! Take steps to be healthier by changing your eating habits or visiting a spa. These behaviors will help you care for yourself. Scorpio (Oct. 22 – Nov. 21) Your creative juices are flowing, but you’re not sure you’re making progress. Don’t stress yourself out; your inspiration will be enough. Once you know your direction, others will give you just the right support to make things happen. Sagittarius (Nov. 21 – Dec. 21) You feel you are on the verge of something big, but you’re not there yet. Be patient—this just means that the timing is off. If you push too hard to make things happen or spend your money foolishly, you will end up paying dearly for that mistake.

January 2024

12/4/23 2:3915 PM

A Woman’s Work

Traveling to NYC

Plan Ahead to Enjoy Your Trip!

By Deborah Daley

Traveling to New York City is on many bucket lists, as it should be! Times Square, Rockefeller Center, the Statue of Liberty, and Broadway shows are just part of the allure. I recently took my niece to the city that never sleeps. I thought I would share some insights from our trip. First, know that it will not be cheap. Even though I booked through a travel company, our hotel for four nights was $1,200. When we checked out, I faced a $200 charge for “resort fees.”That said, you don’t want to skimp on your hotel. You want to be safe, secure, and located in a spot convenient to your chosen activities. You should also expect to do a lot of walking. My niece has strong legs, but I’m almost 70…I can’t walk like I used to, and the city blocks in NYC are much longer than they are in Omaha! We ended up spending a lot on cab rides. The good news is that everyone has credit card readers, so you don’t have to carry cash to get a lift. The streets are congested, so prepare yourself for an aggressive ride. Seat belts are mandatory, even in the back seat. Keep in mind that trips take longer in such a large city. Make sure you plan accordingly, especially for your return trip to the airport! I recommend choosing what you want to do before you

get there. I booked our theater tickets ahead of time, and I’m glad I did! One night, we thought we might take in a last-minute show, but the only tickets left were out of our price range. The two Broadway productions we did see were amazing—the energy, the music, the sets, the costumes! Our seats were 15 steps up from the bottom of the mezzanine. At one show, an usher took pity on me while I tried to walk up all those steps and offered us chairs at the bottom. They were great seats—in fact, there really didn’t seem to be a bad seat in the house. I booked our tours ahead of time, too. People who didn’t book early had to wait in line for an hour! Our 9/11 memorial tour was a walking tour. You can take it all in without an tour guide if you’d rather be alone, but I do recommend going through the museum first. We also did a harbor boat cruise, which would have been more fun on a warmer day. It was a great way to see the Statue of Liberty. When we pulled up, it took my breath away.

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My niece really wanted to see the Empire State Building. We didn’t have tickets for that in advance but luckily were able to get some on site. It cost $178 for two people. Prices have gone way up! The last time I visited, about 30 years ago, I think I spent 40 bucks…which probably seemed exorbitant at the time. One of the highlights of the trip was attending a taping of the Kelly Clarkson Show. (Just Google it and put your name in the queue for tickets.) Like most places in NYC, you have to stand in line to get in, but I must say that the lines at NBC Studios were extremely organized. There were interns and guides lining us up, putting us on elevators, and communicating all the time. It takes about an hour and a half to get to the studio lounge, and the taping itself takes about the same amount of time. They start and stop, but it is all very organized. The show doesn’t always have audience gifts, but we got lucky and were awarded a $900 vacuum cleaner. Again, we had to line up and fill out paperwork, but the vacuum arrived at my house yesterday and it is unbelievable. There is every kind of restaurant in NYC, but we usually stuck to quick and convenient places so we could get on with our day. As a movie and theater buff, I was dying to go to Sardi’s, which is the Broadway restaurant with all the autographed caricatures of the stars. The food was great and the service impeccable, and we paid handsomely for it. Of course, we did some shopping. At Macy’s and Saks Fifth Avenue, there were entire floors devoted to everything from plus-size clothing to perfume. My niece looked at a prom dress that was “on sale” for $1,200. She decided against it. If New York City is on your bucket list, get ready for an amazing trip! My advice? Get your tickets for activities ahead of time, get ready to do a lot of walking, and take lots of pictures.

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Healthy Living

Northpoint Recovery Center Find Your Life Worth Living

By Angella Arndt

Are you struggling with substance abuse or mental health issues, or do you know someone who is? Would you like help but don’t know where to turn? Northpoint Recovery provides comprehensive treatment for substance abuse and mental health disorders. They offer inpatient and outpatient treatment programs for adults and teens.

Northpoint Recovery was founded by a group of individuals in recovery who successfully battled substance addiction. The treatment they received addressed both their physical dependence on drugs and alcohol as well as the psychological factors that led to addiction. They opened their first facility in 2009 in Boise, Idaho, and this integrated approach became the cornerstone of their treatment philosophy. Northpoint has three facilities in Omaha and will expand into Lincoln in the summer of 2024. Executive Director Tiffany Gormley joined the Northpoint team in 2021 and helped open the Northpoint Omaha location. Tiffany earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology and her master’s degree in counseling at the University of Nebraska—Omaha. At Northpoint, Tiffany says, treatment plans are designed to meet the specific needs of each individual. The foundation of their treatment plan is dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), a type of cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy. “This approach focuses on four areas of function, including mindfulness, emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, and distress tolerance,” Tiffany explains. “Our goal is to help our patients develop coping skills to find better ways of dealing with problems while developing connections with others.” Northpoint Nebraska offers inpatient detox and rehab treatment. For some people, inpatient residential treatment is the clear way forward, but it isn’t easy. “Family is a huge barrier for people coming to residential treatment,” Tiffany points out, and this is especially true for women. “Women often sacrifice their own needs for the sake of others, but investing time in yourself is worth it to create a solid foundation.” People can also start their recovery at Northpoint’s outpatient facility that offers a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP). The Outpatient Programs are an option for individuals who have a safe and supportive network at home, cannot take time off work or leave their family for an extended period, or wish to find a less expensive alternative to inpatient treatment. Patients may spend five days a week, six hours a day in treatment. Imagine, is Northpoint’s adolescent mental health treatment program for teens. They participate in full-day treatment with the Partial Hospitalization or Intensive Outpatient Program. Northpoint also works with schools to tailor each 18

January 2024

teen’s education services to meet their needs. A unique aspect of the treatment at Northpoint Recovery is their Tiffany Gormley, Executive Director dual diagnosis treatment approach. Some people use drugs or alcohol to deal with mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, or borderline personality disorder. Other people may use drugs or alcohol as a coping mechanism to deal with stress, anger, anxiety, or difficult life experiences. The dual diagnosis treatment approach treats concurrent substance abuse addiction and mental health concerns for a more successful recovery process. Northpoint works with insurance providers to maximize coverage and minimize out-of-pocket expenses. They accept admissions 24 hours a day, seven days a week. “We are unique in that you do not need an evaluation for admission into our inpatient facility,” Tiffany advises. Tiffany emphasizes the importance of peer support in recovery. “For some people, their addiction becomes their most important support, and they become isolated. The opposite of addiction is connection.” Some staff members are in recovery themselves, providing a deeper understanding of what patients are experiencing. “Our staff members are so supportive of patients and of one another. They are truly authentic in the care they provide.” Recovery does not stop when treatment ends. The Northpoint Alumni Program helps reduce the risk of relapse by providing a support network, accountability, and continued access to treatment professionals. “The Alumni Program is an important piece of continuing treatment,” Tiffany notes. It offers meetings twice a week and monthly social activities. All events are free for alumni. Tiffany finds it greatly rewarding to see patients progress through the program. “We see people when they are physically and mentally at their worst. They are brighter when they leave, and their friends and family can see the difference. We want to help people find their life worth living again.” For more information on either program, call 402-3329431 or visit online at northpointnebraska.com or omahaimagine.com.

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“We have always enjoyed working with Women's Edition over the past 30 some years. Over the years, we have created many new customers, after they saw one of our ads or one of the write-ups on our shop. The articles they have written on the store and owner over the years are always well written, in depth, and continue to create buzz for our business. We love that they know us all by name and really strive for us to get the most out of our advertising. Women's Edition will always be a place we will happily advertise.”

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January 2024

9/11/23 11:1319 AM

Fresh Concept

New Year, New You

Put Your Best Face Forward!

By Janette Calabro

As workers returned to the office over the past couple of years, many of us wished to see a fresher face in the mirror than the one we’d been squinting at during Zoom meetings. Facial plastic surgeries have boomed! As 2023 fades in the rearview, take a good look at your face and tally up the changes you wish to see. Your wishes are personal, and everyone is different. Face lift, forehead lift, neck lift, eyelid surgery, and brow lift are the most common facial plastic surgeries. Most facial procedures reduce wrinkles, increase firmness, and reshape for a more youthful look, but that’s not all you can do. No matter what concerns you have about your face, plastic surgeons likely have a solution, including lip augmentation for fuller lips, rhinoplasty for the nose you’ve always desired, or jaw or chin reshaping to return to the jawline you used to have.Your doc can even sculpt your cheeks to get the perfect contour without makeup! Let’s review some of the most common procedures and find out how long you can expect to keep your new look.

U.S. News and World Report says that facial plastic surgery is trending up, based on a survey of members of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. “From sculpting faces to show off cheek bones to removing excess skin above the eyelid, interest in a nip and tuck is up,” the survey revealed. The report states that about 82 percent of procedures performed in 2022 were minimally invasive (think Botox and fillers), while the other 18 percent included rhinoplasty or facial rejuvenation surgery. Some people undergo procedures to create a fuller face, but thin cheeks are trending, too. Surgeons remove buccal fat (the fat between your cheekbones and jaw) for a slimmer look. Surgeons are often asked to reshape cheekbones to mimic the sharp, sculpted supermodel look of the 1990s. Keep in mind that the procedure is irreversible, so make sure it’s what you want. After surgery, you’ll see bruising and swelling for one to two weeks. Results are permanent! A weak chin or jawline will likely benefit from a chin implant. A well-defined jaw procedure often starts with a pocket created in front of the chin bone, under the muscle, where an implant is placed. Most implants are made of fat tissue or silicone. There are several implant options, but surgeons like solid silicone because it’s biocompatible. Silicone boasts a low infection rate during recovery and a very natural look post-surgery. Implants are usually attached to the bone with stitches or screws. Chin movement will be limited for the first few days post-surgery, and full recovery often takes a few weeks. Chin implants made from silicone and titanium are permanent. Rhinoplasty (nose surgery) is one of the most requested facial surgeries in the United States. People choose rhinoplasty to improve breathing or to change the appearance of their nose. The surgery can alter the bone, cartilage, or skin of the nose—or all three. During a rhinoplasty procedure, you can opt for local anesthesia injected into the nasal tissues or general 20

January 2024

anesthesia for a deep sleep. Your surgeon may be taking out tissue or adding tissue, depending upon the desired nose shape. Incisions can be inside the nose or external (in between the nostrils). After surgery, bandages stay on for about one week. Once the swelling goes down, even a few millimeters of change to the nose’s structure makes a big difference. Consider that your nose changes throughout life, so a truly final result is hard to peg. Talk with your surgeon about a follow-up procedure if more change is needed. Sometimes, we just need a lift—literally. When the brow and forehead start to age, laxity occurs, and the appearance of your forehead and eyes can reveal your age or even suggest that you’re angry when you’re not. Eyelid lifts, forehead lifts, and brow lifts may sound similar, but they’re very different. The procedure you choose should depend on the outcome you desire. According to the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, the difference between a brow lift and a forehead lift lies in the goals of the procedure. “A brow lift acts to raise the position of the brow to give a less tired appearance and sometimes improves sagging eyelids. The primary goal of a forehead lift is to smooth the forehead.” The terms “brow lift” and “forehead lift” are easy to confuse! Be sure to discuss the differences with your plastic surgeon. The procedure for a brow lift requires inch-long incisions just above each temple, behind the hairline. The surgeon lifts and repositions the tissues of the outer brow area. The brows are elevated and repositioned along the natural brow ridge to restore a youthful arch. Browlifts can also improve the look of crow’s feet or smile wrinkles at the corners of your eyes. Remarkably, brow lifts are usually outpatient procedures, under either local sedation or IV sedation (if you want to sleep through it). Bruising and swelling are expected post-surgery, as is tightness, for about 10 days. Effects can last a decade! Be sure to talk to your surgeon about less

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invasive procedures like a liquid brow lift or an endoscopic brow lift (a few small incisions behind the hairline). These provide more subtle elevation that lasts about two years. What’s the difference between an eyelid lift and a brow lift? Eyelid lifts improve the area around the eyes from cheekbone to browbone. Most plastic surgeons recommend a blepharoplasty (eyelid lift) for patients who have sagging, heavy eyelids. If your drooping eyelids disappear when you lift your brows, then a brow lift may be more beneficial (or you could opt for both). During the procedure, the surgeon cuts along the fold of the eyelid to remove excess skin, muscle, and fat, if necessary. On the lower lid, a strategic cut right below the lashes in the natural crease or inside of the lower lid can be used to redistribute excess fat and sagging skin. After surgery, your vison may be temporarily blurred. Eyelids may be puffy and numb, and you should expect swelling and bruising for about two weeks. Your new look will last from five to seven years. Want to eliminate sagging jowls and lift your face for a more youthful appearance? A traditional face lift may be the answer. During a face lift, excess facial fat is removed and facial skin is trimmed and redraped for a smooth appearance. Incisions often begin at the temple hairline and go around the ear at the lower scalp. Another incision under the chin allows the surgeon to tighten an aging neck. You can opt for a neck lift or a mini face lift to correct sagging skin over the lower half of the face and neck, but the most common procedure is a face and neck lift together. After surgery, your face is bandaged to minimize swelling and bruising. Recovery takes about four to six weeks, and results last for about 10 years.

Keep in mind that the youthful look provided by a face lift is not permanent…natural aging will still occur. Non-surgical lip augmentation plumps lips temporarily. For a longer-lasting effect, a plastic surgeon can create permanently fuller lips with surgical lip augmentation. A small incision is made in each corner of the mouth. From there, small tunnels are made along the lips and implants are inserted. Bruising and swelling will follow for a few days to a few weeks, but lips are permanently fuller. Lip augmentation is also reversible! Facial rejuvenation procedures include anti-wrinkle injections like collagen for plumping out the skin. As we age, our bodies produce less collagen, and that can lead to wrinkles and skin sagging. Collagen fillers create naturally smooth skin, strengthening elasticity for a dewy, plump look. They also help skin repair itself. Good-bye, crow’s feet! Effects from fillers last about six months to two years. For a more permanent solution to lack of volume or drooping skin, consider facial fat grafting or fat transfer. The plastic surgeon removes fat from your belly or thighs and injects it into your face. You can expect better skin texture, smoother lines, and even reduction of that pesky sunken eye look. As natural aging takes its toll on your face, it may be time to consider cosmetic surgery. The resulting changes will be unique to you, but you can count on a fresher, more confident face staring back at you from the mirror. Just what the doctor ordered. Sources for this article included: mayoclinic.org, usnews. com, and aafprs.org.

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The Market Place

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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. Creating happy memories...that is what Cake Expressions is all about! Let us make your special event, wedding, birthday, anniversary, or neighborhood get-together the best ever. We create extraordinary and delicious cakes, 3-D cakes, cupcake pull-a-parts, delightful pies, cookies, and unbelievable peanut brittle. Whatever you’re planning, make sure to call Debbie at Cake Expressions 402933-4158. 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.

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The Furniture Girl

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Peak Performance

Fitness After the Holidays How to Get Back on Track

By Deborah Daley

The holidays are often a time of indulgence. Our fitness routines are interrupted by travel and holiday gatherings; our diet routines are interrupted by all those holiday treats. Getting back on track is important, but it needs to be done by setting and then meeting achievable goals. It takes time to come back after a holiday hiatus, so start slowly.

One of the most effective things you can do to maintain good health is to incorporate physical fitness into your regular routine. Individuals who are at a healthy weight and who are physically active live an average of seven years longer than individuals who are obese and inactive. Health experts recommend a minimum of 150 minutes each week of moderate-intensity physical activity. Being active helps prevent or delay chronic conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Being active also provides other benefits, like increased flexibility, muscle strength, stability, and bone density. Being active can also provide mental health benefits. It boosts self-confidence, lifts your mood with endorphin release, and provides opportunities for socialization. For good health, you need to exercise regularly and eat properly, not just one or the other. You need proper nutrients to help get your body in shape. Stay hydrated and add good carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into your diet. After a workout, eat or drink something within 15 minutes to refuel. Some people may be tempted to go all out after the holidays because they want a quick fix. You can expect more success if you set a series of small, attainable goals. If you meet a goal, give yourself a reward. This helps you maintain your momentum and motivation. Success in fitness depends upon knowing and respecting your body’s limits. When trying to get back in shape, pay close attention to how your body responds to exercise. If there are strains or severe aches, you might be doing too much. Don’t forget to stretch! Muscles can tighten during periods of inactivity. Take 10 minutes to stretch before a workout and you’ll decrease your chance of injury. Check with your doctor before you start a new fitness regimen or make significant changes to your eating habits. They may point out risk factors for injury that you hadn’t considered. Once you’ve got the green light, visit some local fitness centers to see what they offer. Ask friends and family where they like to work out. Check out pricing specials that might be offered right after the holidays. Remember, you’re investing in yourself! One of the advantages of joining a fitness center is the opportunity to exercise in groups. This can help with 24

January 2024

accountability and motivation, and it can be much more fun! Some popular options include yoga, Pilates, cycling, weight training, and boxing. The many variations of yoga make it an excellent option for everyone, regardless of age, fitness level, or goals. Try restorative yoga to release tension, yoga sculpt to build strength, or hot yoga for a sweat-drenched challenge. Yoga can increase your strength, agility, flexibility, and balance. Pilates is a strength-based class primarily using a piece of equipment called the reformer. This apparatus utilizes spring tension and body weight. The instructor may also use other equipment to improve flexibility, increase your range of motion, and build strength—especially core strength. Indoor cycling classes (sometimes called spin classes) are held on stationary bikes. Cycling is a low-impact exercise with enormous cardiovascular benefits. You change your resistance or speed to achieve goals. Weight training is a highly specialized fitness endeavor and should be done in conjunction with a fitness professional. Once you’ve learned how to use the machines at your fitness center, you may be able to direct your own workouts to increase strength, flexibility, and metabolism. Boxing is growing in popularity…perhaps because there is something to be said about throwing a punch at a heavy bag! Most boxing classes incorporate strength training and conditioning. Expect a total-body workout with total-body results. If you want individualized attention as you get back to a fitness routine, hire a personal trainer. This helps greatly with accountability. If you’ve invested your money and there’s a trainer waiting for you at the gym, you’re more likely to turn up! A trainer can help you experiment with working out at different times of the day or trying out different equipment. A personal trainer can help you set attainable goals and make sure you’re using proper form during exercise, lowering your risk of injury. Ask at the gym to see if their staff accepts individual clients. You indulged during the holidays; the new year is time to splurge on your own health and fitness! Sources for this article included: nebraskamed.com, uma. ca.edu, and ymca.org.

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Good Looks

Maintaining a Healthy Weight How to Get There and Stay There

By Loretta McCollum

Body weight is a critical factor for good health and overall well-being. Being overweight can lead to complications like high blood pressure, diabetes, and increased risk of stroke, and it can take a toll on joints and bones. A healthy weight lowers your risk for conditions such as heart disease and certain cancers. At a healthy weight, your body operates more efficiently, and you’re likely to have more energy. Calculating your body mass index (BMI) is a good starting point for weight management. It’s an estimate of body fat based on your height and weight. BMI calculators are readily available on the internet. In general, a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 indicates a healthy body weight. Gender and age can affect your results. Women tend to store more fat than men. As we age, our metabolism slows, decreasing the number of calories we can consume without gaining weight. Learning to manage eating habits is a key component of maintaining a healthy weight and a healthy body. One way to do this is through nutrition counseling. Your physician can recommend a registered dietician or a certified nutritionist to help you develop a personalized weight loss program. The first step is to schedule an initial consultation to discuss your medical history and weight loss goals. They will work with you to develop and implement a meal plan based on your needs. Periodic follow-up appointments track your progress. You can make adjustments as needed to ensure long-term success.

Millions of Americans choose commercial weight loss programs such as Jenny Craig, Nutrisystem, and Weight Watchers. Jenny Craig utilizes prepackaged low-calorie foods, in-person or phone support, and online tools to help you plan and track your meals. Fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as reduced fat dairy products, are also incorporated. The focus is on low-fat foods rich in water, fiber, and protein. No food is completely off limits, including the occasional alcoholic beverage. No cooking is necessary at first. As you approach your weight loss goal, you start eating meals made at home. Once you reach your target weight, you begin transitioning to more home-cooked meals. Nutrisystem also utilizes pre-packaged meals, which are supplemented by personal grocery purchases. This is a high-protein weight loss plan based on the glycemic index and personal nutrition. Consuming at least 75 grams of daily protein helps keep blood sugar levels consistent in order to alleviate hunger and burn stubborn belly fat. Eating out is possible but limited. Supplements and one-on-one weight loss coaching is included, as is a mobile app for support. Weight Watchers is the granddaddy of weight loss programs,

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Interiors by Design

Living Spaces 2024

Fresh Ways to Reinvent Your Home

By Robyn V. Powell

With the arrival of each new year, we bid farewell to the old and usher in the new! For homeowners, this often translates to the desire to refresh our living spaces. The great news is that 2024 offers countless exciting new ways to update your home. Whether your plans include a major remodel or you simply wish to update some furnishings, we’ve looked to industry leaders to walk us through design trends and discover what’s capturing the hearts and minds of homeowners. We’ve got tips on which trends will stand the test of time and how to take your spaces from ordinary to extraordinary! Designers agree that a nature-inspired design aesthetic will take center stage in 2024. Nature-inspired living is more than just a trend. It’s become a lifestyle! A connection with nature improves our well-being by grounding us and bringing a sense of comfort. Interiors inspired by the outdoors strengthen our connection to nature and awaken our eco-consciousness and sense of responsibility toward the environment. Embracing this trend can be as simple as choosing sustainable products and handmade furnishings. Custom wood furnishings such as entertainment centers or dining tables and chairs check all the right boxes, providing beautiful, sustainable, one-of-a-kind pieces for your home. The trend toward wood flooring and wood cabinets in warm, earthy finishes continues to grow, creating a sense of harmony with nature that invites the great outdoors into interior spaces. In terms of color, we’re starting to see a shift away from the

cool whites and grays that have defined the design palette for more than a decade. While neutrals aren’t going away, warmer tones—think creamy off-whites, beiges, camels, and rich browns—are becoming increasingly popular. These inviting shades lend a welcome warmth to any space. Science tells us that certain colors evoke certain emotions. Leading the pack of popular interior colors this year, velvety smooth hues of brown lend the cozy comfort of a warm hug while also reflecting a sophisticated serenity. Meanwhile, mustard and olive green are experiencing a revival! These earthy tones evoke a feeling of nostalgia while bathing modern spaces in their warmth. Hues of blue and green are also in focus in 2024. These nature-inspired tones have a calming effect and are great choices for a bedroom. Trim work and accent colors have also warmed up, moving from stark whites to softer, creamier tones.

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One way to instantly elevate any space and make a statement is with hidden lighting and sculptural fixtures. Beautiful lighting takes an ordinary space to a whole new level, lending an artistic touch to functional Medicare Supplement illumination. Combining the best of form Medicare Advantage and function, organically shaped furnishings also lend visual appeal and exceptional Prescription Drug comfort. Whether you opt for a rounded Plans ■ Highly trained electrologist sofa or a sensually curved chaise, these Short & Long Term with 27 years of experience flowy pieces create an inviting and harmoMedical ■ FDA Permanent nious ambience. For the ultimate in comfort, Dental/Vision/Hearing Hair Removal choose curvy shapes upholstered in timeless ACA Chris Flaxbeard, fabrics such as linen, cotton, leather, and ■ Ideal for all areas And more! Independent Agent of unwanted hair luxe velvet. While many homeowners and designers Absolute still appreciate the open floor concept, the closed floor plan is seeing a return in popPerfection ularity as homebuyers seek privacy, calm, Electrolysis and quiet. A closed floor plan creates cozy, Mary Brennan enclosed spaces within a home, allowing BSN, CPE, LE for the use of bold color and varying design statements in each room. Many people have spent the past few years rethinking their livCall today for a FREE consultation ing spaces to incorporate a dedicated home Call me for a no cost consultation! office and more private spaces. With remote Appointments available work here to stay, people are investing in days and evenings ergonomic furniture and stylish custom Phone appointments or In-home appointments chris@flaxbeard.com 7810 Dodge Street ■ Salon Suites design to increase functionality and make their workplaces more inspiring. With a nod to traditional design, we’re Flaxbeard.indd 1 8/3/23 11:08 Absolute AM Perfection.indd 1 12/6/22 1:48 PM seeing a return to classic elements with fresh twists! The lines between design styles continue to blur, creating an interesting mix of perspectives. Ornate furnishings, for example, once considered stuffy and outdated, instantly become more relaxed and casual when juxtaposed with contemporary spaces. Merging the charm of the past with the contours of the future eliminates any sense of formality and instead creates an unexpected and pleasing ambience. Master the mix of timeless elegance and modern simplicity to create a space that’s both welcoming and sophisticated by using natural elements, layered fabrics, and varied textures. Authenticity has become a staple in the design world and will remain a key pillar Silk Flowers | Home Decor well beyond 2024. Interiors that reflect the homeowner’s character and personality tell a story and draw people in. Handmade craftsmanship and vintage finds bring unique character and individuality to homes, and we love that these pieces are built to last. Whatever your vision is for your living spaces, authenticity in your design choices is the key to creating truly remarkable and enduring interiors. Sources for this article included: houzz. com, hgtv.com, and architecturaldigest.com.

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To Your Good Health

A Resolution for Cervical Wellness! Don’t Drop the Ball

By Leslie Byrne

After the ball drops in Times Square and the new year begins, many of us make resolutions to improve our health. While resolutions usually focus on changes like weight loss and fitness, January presents an opportunity to focus on something equally important but sometimes overlooked—cervical health. January is Cervical Health Awareness Month, and it’s the perfect time for women to take charge of their well-being and learn what can be done to prevent cervical cancer. This disease affects millions of women worldwide. As with most cancers, the key to overcoming it lies in early detection. Scheduling a cervical screening should be a must for every woman! Detection of precancerous cells can significantly improve a woman’s likelihood of successful treatment and can even prevent the cancer altogether. The cervical screening test, sometimes called a Pap test, involves examining a sample of cells from the cervix for certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV), a common group of viruses. Most people will encounter some form of HPV at some point in their lives, but the body usually clears the virus before it develops into something more serious. Unfortunately, certain forms of HPV may lead to cervical cancer. This is the reason a cervical screening is so important in the fight against one of the most common cancers affecting women. Worldwide, cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women. In 2020 alone, there were approximately 604,000 newly

diagnosed cases and 342,000 deaths. The good news is that by educating ourselves about appropriate screening tests and the HPV vaccine, we can actively participate in the prevention of cervical cancer. Every person with a cervix is at risk, but cervical cancer occurs most frequently in women over the age of 30. HPV, primarily transmitted through sexual contact, is the leading cause of cervical cancer. Women in certain ethnic groups, such as Hispanic women, non-Hispanic American Indian and Alaska Native women, and non-Hispanic Black women, face higher rates, making the need for equitable access to quality care and regular screenings for women of all ethnicities an important goal for healthcare providers. There are steps women can take to decrease their risk of developing cervical cancer, and one of these steps is getting the HPV vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend vaccination for individuals starting at age 11 or 12 years and up through 26 years of age. Older adults may choose to get the HPV vaccine after discussing it with their healthcare provider. Parents play a crucial role in the prevention of cervical cancer, since children as young as 11 years can get the vaccine. (At this age,

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many children have not yet had any contact that would put them at risk for HPV.) Eliminate pain and Vaccinating both young girls and boys restore motion with is a proactive measure to prevent future cases of HPV-associated cancers. Encouraging parents to have their children Conditions vaccinated against HPV at an early age and • Everyone is welcome Treated: reminding women to start cervical cancer • Adults, Adolescents, Children Chronic Neck screenings at age 21 sets the stage for a • (PSB-CBT) Problematic Sexualized & Back Pain healthier future. Behavior Treatment Headaches Cervical screening guidelines differ by • Court related cases Sciatica & Nerve Pain age. Women should have their first Pap test • Substance abuse Fibromyalgia at age 21 and again every three years (if Painful Scars • IOP/OP Classes nothing abnormal is detected). For women Shanna Paopao, Muscle Pain & Spasms aged 30-65, testing guidelines vary, but PT Women’s Concerns experts recommend testing every three to five years. Women over the age of 65 can Call now to see if Myofascial talk to their healthcare provider to deterRelease is right for you! If you are willing mine if cervical screening is still necessary. Regardless of age, regular screenings are to put in the work, www.bodywiseomaha.com the best defense against cervical cancer we can help you! because they make early detection possible Call today. and offer effective treatments. Betty Kola Knowing the symptoms of cervical canPhD, CPC, LIMHP, PLADC cer is also a crucial part of detection. Watch All forms of pay accepted. Clinical Director 2504 S. 119th St. out for signs like vaginal bleeding or pelvic 1941 S. 42nd Street, Suite 106, Omaha, NE 68105 Insurance Accepted pain. Of course, these can also be sympwww.bfscounseling.com toms of other conditions and should always be reported to your physician. Fortunately, unlike other forms of cancer, cervical cancerBouyant Family Services.indd 1 5/8/23 8:41 BodyWise AM Therapy.indd 1 11/2/20 10:45 AM tends to develop slowly, which allows more time to treat it in the early stages. Common risk factors for cervical cancer include smoking, having multiple sexual partners, engaging in early sexual activity, contracting other sexually transmitted inDr. Kevin Balter, MD fections, having a weakened immune sysDiscover how new treatment options can give you relief. tem, and exposure to certain medications Rely on Omaha’s pain specialists. during pregnancy. Preventive measures such as HPV vaccination, routine Pap tests, Stop living with pain. practicing safe sex, and avoiding tobacco can significantly reduce the risk. Schedule your appointment today. Various treatment options are availDr. Rafal Krejza, DO able for cervical cancer, including surgery, ) radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. The choice of treatment depends on factors like the cancer stage, overall health, and personal preferences. Shelley Vanhoozer, APR-NP This January, make a resolution to schedule a cervical cancer screening. Stay informed, start taking preventive measures, and encourage others to do the same. Your 825 North 90th Street cervical health matters—make it a priority FAX: 402-391-1302 in 2024! www.midwestpainclinics.com Sources for this article included: cdc.gov, Neck Pain • Back Pain • Joint Pain • Headaches • Fibromyalgia • Knee Pain Oksana Lukashonak PA cancer.gov, and mayoclinic.org.

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Great Escapes

Destination Weddings Top Locations in the World

By Jackie Williams

Congratulations! Are you getting married soon? Is one of your kids or grandkids? Because now is the perfect time to start planning a destination wedding that everyone can enjoy. We will talk about the top locations all over the world and narrow it down to a few recommendations that will help you plan that special and unforgettable day.

Technically, a “destination wedding” can be anywhere that’s outside of the couple’s area. Most are actually held stateside. According to TheKnot.com, even international destination weddings are often close to home. Last year, 44 percent of Americans getting married outside of the United States were in Mexico; 18 percent were in the Caribbean; and 20 percent were in Europe. The first thing to consider is what type of destination you want. Are you looking for a place that is meaningful to you and your spouse-to-be, a fun and exciting vacation destination, an affordable spot for everyone, or something you and your guests will want to brag about? If you’re looking for convenience at the beach, where everything is arranged for you, I recommend booking one of the adults-only, all-inclusive Caribbean Sandals resorts via your travel agent. Locations include luxury resorts on the beaches of St. Vincent, Curacao, Barbados, Jamaica, St. Lucia, Grenada, Bahamas, and Antigua. My top personal choices would be one with an over-the-water bungalow or a private plunge pool, which includes Sandals St. Vincent (opening in March 2024) or Sandals Grande St. Lucian. If you have a hard time choosing, go to their website (sandals.com/resorts), where you can choose which one is best for you by its features. Your travel agent can also share invaluable advice and feedback from personal experience and what they’ve learned from previous clients who have enjoyed (or not enjoyed) destination weddings. Everyone is different! You can choose a resort based on what you think you and your guests would most enjoy—nightlife, golf, diving, and more. Then, there is Italy. Tuscany is a dream, specifically for villa weddings. Take a look at Villa Ardore if you can imagine your wedding at a 16th-century estate. This eight-bedroom luxury villa can sleep 16 to 18 guests. It has been restored and updated with modern comforts and amenities. This gorgeous villa is in Chianti, just 30 miles from the airport in Florence. It is situated within lush woodlands with views of rolling hills, vineyards, and medieval towers where you can watch the sun set over the Tuscan countryside. Can you picture it? The amenities don’t stop there. Villa Ardore has its own spa on the property, chickens for fresh eggs in the morning, and a separate space where the bride and groom can sleep. The full-catering kitchen makes things easy for private chefs 38

January 2024

and caterers. If you have more guests than will fit in the villa, they can stay at a nearby hotel or villa that partners with Villa Ardore for additional accommodations. Next on the list is a castle wedding in Austria. When discussing the topic of wedding destinations with my female family members, they just about forced me to mention Leopoldskron Castle, in Salzburg. After hearing about it and taking a look, I would have to agree that Hotel Schloss Leopoldskron would be a wonderful place to get married. It is privately owned and not open to the public. Guests, on the other hand, are free to roam the seven-hectare castle park, which makes you feel like you own the place. They do arrange tours, one of which is the Original Sound of Music tour. They ask, “Are you looking for absolute romance with a fairytale natural backdrop on a glittering lake, delicious food, and a lavish party into the night…? Then you’ve come to the right place at Schloss Leopoldskron!” Need I say more? If you’d prefer to stay stateside for your destination wedding, you can still take advantage of lovely beaches in places like North Carolina’s Crystal Coast or the Key Largo Lighthouse in Florida. There are beautifully scenic areas in places as different as Arizona, the Colorado Rockies, or Nantucket. Don’t forget about California’s stunning Central Coast (Big Sur, Monterey, Pebble Beach) or a vineyard setting in Napa or Sonoma County. For the most luxurious destination wedding, jet over to one of the many venues of the Amalfi Coast in Italy, to an elegant villa on the French Riviera, or to the perfect turquoise waters of Greece for your big day. Whatever the destination, remember to focus on what matters the most: your vows of marriage, and then a celebration for you and your loved ones. Sources for this article included: schloss-leopolskron.com, sandals.com, and villaardore.com.

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Seasons of Life

Glaucoma

Early Detection is Critical

By Linda Barnes

Glaucoma has been called the silent thief of vision. With this condition, excessive pressure from fluid in the eye causes irreversible damage to the optic nerve. Typically, there are no symptoms in the early stages, so regular eye exams are key to discovering the condition when damage can still be slowed or stopped. An estimated three million people in the United States have glaucoma, but only half are diagnosed. It is the second most common cause of blindness in the world. People older than 60 years and those with a family history of the condition are most at risk. African Americans are more likely than people of Caucasian descent to experience vision loss from glaucoma. Within the eye, an acceptable level of pressure is ideally maintained as new fluid is produced and old fluid drains out. Glaucoma occurs when fluid does not drain away properly, increasing pressure and damaging the optic nerve. Since the optic nerve consists of a bundle of many tiny nerve fibers, a person begins to lose vision little by little as the tiny fibers are damaged and die. Small blind spots develop that may not be obvious at first. Once a nerve fiber dies, the damage is permanent. The two main types of glaucoma are differentiated by the reasons that fluid does not drain properly. Open-angle glaucoma is most common and involves a gradual reduction of drainage, so pressure increases slowly over time. Typically, there are no symptoms in the early stage.

Angle-closure glaucoma involves the iris being very close to the drainage angle. It can happen slowly, with few symptoms (chronic), when the iris begins to block drainage. However, if a complete closure occurs (acute), one needs immediate treatment to prevent serious vision loss. Fortunately, with acute angle-closure glaucoma, symptoms do occur. Sudden blurring, redness of the eye, headache, severe eye pain, nausea, and halos around lights are signs that you need treatment right away. In addition to these two types of glaucoma, some people have optic nerves that are sensitive even to normal eye pressure. They are at greater risk for normal-tension glaucoma. Besides age and family history, there are several other risk factors for glaucoma, including high eye pressure, eye injury, long-term use of steroids, diabetes, near- or far-sightedness, migraines, or high blood pressure. Since eye injury increases risk, protective eyewear can reduce the chance of developing glaucoma. The best defense against glaucoma is to get regular eye exams that will detect early signs of optic nerve damage before any

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Helping Seniors

symptoms arise. Although vision loss is permanent, further damage can be avoided when the condition is detected early. Move is Our Specialty A complete exam includes measuring eye pressure, checking peripheral vision Let us help you start your next chapter, (where losses typically appear first), and we’ll do the heavy lifting for you. a visual inspection of the optic nerve. As your advocate, we: Other tests might include measuring the • Carefully pack your belongings thickness of the cornea or imaging of the • Federal Firearms Licensee drainage canals. • Communicate with your new residence • Schedule movers to move your household promptly An optometrist is one of the eye • Assist with downsizing and room planning professionals you might visit to have a • Unpack and set up your new home complete eye exam. They will have earned before your arrival a four-year college degree in the sciences • Auction personal items followed by a four-year Doctor of Optom• Liquidate homes, cars, personal property, etry degree. They typically perform eye businesses and more exams, prescribe corrective lenses, and • Coordinate with you and your family to ensure diagnose eye health problems. peace of mind Ophthalmologists will have completed a one-year internship and a three-year Down the street, across the country, residency after medical school for more around the world—you help save Shayne Fili, comprehensive training in the care of eye the day. Every day. Owner health issues. They are licensed to perform Your help is needed Call Shayne today eye surgery, as well. now more than ever. 402-571-7065 In a typical scenario, an optometrist Visit redcross.org. for a FREE in-home consultation. might detect signs of glaucoma during an annual eye exam. They would likely goldenyearsrelocation.com refer the patient to an ophthalmologist for management of the suspected damage to the optic nerve. Once damage to one’s vision is detect8/9/21 11:59 Golden AM Years.indd 1 11/8/23 12:23 PM ed, there are several treatment options. Red Cross - Hope Sixth.indd 1 Eye drops are a traditional treatment that Save $800 on a pair of Advanced Level Hearing Technology work by either reducing the amount of fluid or increasing the drainage flow. Laser treatment may be employed to enable the drainage angle to function better. Or, with closed-angle glaucoma, a tiny hole can We offer the latest in hearing be made in the iris to improve drainage. In some cases, a miniature drainage tube technology. Precise input from might be implanted. the world’s first integrated Glaucoma is likely to be treated and acoustic-motion sensors allows monitored for life. Although it is more for a complete analysis of each prevalent with increased age, glaucowearer’s dynamic soundscape. ma can occur at any age, including with infants. Experts recommend regular testing Husker Owned and Operated for those at risk: every 1–3 years for those with Husker Values aged 40–54 years, every 1–2 years for those aged 55–64, and every 6–12 months for those 65 and older. We Are Committed To Helping The main point to remember is that You Hear Better So You Can glaucoma is often silent, with no sympEnjoy Life To The Fullest. toms in the early stages. Only a complete eye exam can detect the early signs of optic Better Hearing IS Better Living Call to schedule your appointment today. nerve damage. This is when treatment can 402-949-1950 slow or stop the progression of vision loss. Our eyes are too precious to allow a silent 401 E Gold Coast Rd., Ste.329, Papillion (Medical Building 2) thief to steal our ability to see. Hours: Monday - Friday 9 to 5 Sources for this article included: aao.org, huskerlandhearing.com glaucoma.org, and allaboutvision.com.

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Cuddly Critters

New Puppy Wellness

Vets and Tech to Help Your Pet

By Jackie Byers

If your holiday celebrations included welcoming a new puppy, great times are in store for you! Adding a young pet to your family promises years of happiness and healthy benefits. The first step is to find a veterinarian who will partner with you to keep your new pet healthy. Start by asking friends and neighbors where they take their pets, and then visit some offices with your pet in tow. Finding a vet nearby can be extremely convenient, but that’s not the most important factor. Choose a vet who communicates well with you and relates well to your puppy.

Once you choose your vet, make an appointment for an initial wellness check, best when your pup is six to eight weeks old. This is a thorough exam, a baseline for your pup’s health. Skin, coat, stance, and weight are quick visual checks. Examining ears, eyes, nose, mouth, and teeth will tell your vet a good deal about your pet’s health. Palpating your puppy’s lymph nodes and stomach gives the vet even more information, as does listening to the heart and lungs with a stethoscope. You can provide information about your pet’s eating habits, exercise frequency, and elimination schedule. If specialized testing is needed, your vet will let you know. During the wellness check appointment, the vet will likely explain the importance of spaying or neutering your pet. Many dogs (and cats) are euthanized every year simply because there are too many of them. Spaying and neutering help keep the population under control. The procedure is usually done when dogs are just older than six months. Some larger breeds should be altered later—talk to your vet about the proper schedule for your dog. New puppies also need vaccinations. When your puppy is about six weeks old, vets often administer a 3-in-1 shot protecting your pup against distemper, parvo, and hepatitis. These diseases are widespread, difficult to treat, and potentially fatal, so the vaccines are vital for the health of all dogs. Not all vaccines are necessary for all dogs, however. Protection against Lyme disease, for example, is important in some locales but not others and depends on the dog’s lifestyle. The rabies vaccine, which is a matter of law in many states, is initially given around four months. This vaccination is repeated every one to three years and is generally required for licensing. Another preventative treatment is for heartworms, which dogs can contract from just one mosquito bite. It is a nationwide threat for at least part of the year, and its effects can be serious or even fatal. Pets can be treated topically, by injection, or by eating a chewable tablet. You and your vet will find the best option for your dog. Licensing and tagging dogs is required by law in many states and municipalities. Proof of vaccination provides 42

January 2024

assurance to all who care for your pet (and is likely required by doggie day cares or boarding facilities). It is also invaluable evidence in case your dog bites someone. Advancing technology helps pets and their owners, not only in terms of health but also in terms of locating a pet that has strayed from home. Microchipping has been around for some time. The chip is installed between your pet’s shoulder blades when your pet is anesthetized for spaying or neutering. (This timing negates the need for additional surgery.) Your vet will check at your dog’s annual check-up to make sure the chip is still readable. Early brands required proprietary readers, but universal readers are spreading nationally. This means that a lost dog is more likely to be found! Bluetooth-only trackers are also available. They communicate location if it is within Bluetooth range of your phone— typically, within 30 to 100 feet. Family members and neighbors with Bluetooth using the same tracker system can spread out and cover much more territory when a search is underway for a lost pet. AirTag is an Apple tracking device that uses both Bluetooth and positioning technology called ultra-wideband (UWB) to pinpoint the tracker’s location. Using your iPhone, you can locate the AirTag attached to your pet’s collar with compass-like accuracy. Fi, the first tracking collar, uses the LTE-M low-power, long-distance cellular network. This signal reaches farther than conventional cellular networks. It can locate your dog, even in remote areas. With the ever-ready help of your vet to ensure proper feeding and vaccinations, the arrival of a holiday pet can lead to a long and loving relationship. Many national organizations, legal precautions, and developing technology are also on your side, helping you create the healthy life your new friend deserves. Sources for this article included: petmd.com, cdc.gov, petkey.org, and tryfi.com.

Focus on Finance

Prediction vs. Observation It’s Common Sense

By George Morgan

Wall Street’s many decades of doing business with the public are predicated on its self-proclaimed ability to predict the future of stock prices. Webster defines predicting as using scientific methods to demonstrate the relationship between two variables. In the case of Wall Street, the financial value of a company and its future stock price are the two variables in question.

Ben Graham (Warren Buffett’s mentor) said that Wall Street’s stock market predictions are futile. To explain his position, he gave the market a human persona that is emotional and sometimes irrational, and he named it Mr. Market. At times, Mr. Market is exuberant and offers to sell you stock at prices that are ridiculous. At other times, Mr. Market’s emotions turn sour, and he offers to sell you stock at different but equally ridiculous prices. Mr. Graham’s advice to individual investors was to pay attention to Mr. Market’s moods and ignore Wall Street’s advice. If you ascribe to the Wall Street paradigm, then continue on as you have always done. However, if you find merit in Graham’s paradigm, then you need to take a different approach to investing. This approach is based upon observation rather than prediction. The dictionary defines observing as using common sense to gather information in order to deal with, and properly respond to, social and natural phenomena. Translation: Keep an eye on Mr. Market. Investors who concur with Graham’s stock market assessment often use index funds in their effort to deal with Mr. Market’s emotional gyrations. An index fund is a mutual fund built to mimic a specific stock market index. The fund buys and holds all the stocks in the chosen index, in the same proportion that they appear in the index. An index fund is passive; that is, it does not trade in order to enhance its performance. Today, there are 3,456 indexes and more than 7,500 index funds available to the investing public. Ninety-five percent of these indexes, however, fail the sniff test because they are designed to fool Mr. Market…and history has shown that this is a futile endeavor. The untainted three indexes are the Dow Jones Industrial Average, the S&P 500, and the NASDAQ. Any discussion of the use of index funds to manage Mr. Market’s moodiness needs to note the fact that the Dow, S&P 500, and NASDAQ tend to move in sync. However, this year, we have witnessed a major decoupling of the group in terms of their magnitude. Out of the gate, the NASDAQ took the lead; by midsummer, it was up over 30 percent. The S&P has performed slightly better in terms of its historical norms, at about +15 percent, with the Dow bringing up the rear at +10 percent. Investing is not a one-size-fits-all proposition. Let me begin by addressing the conservative, passive investors. The most conservative approach is to buy and hold the S&P 500. The S&P 500 contains 85 percent of the U.S. companies that

are publicly traded. A caveat is that this depends upon where you began the year. If you were not 100 percent in the S&P, caution is advised before realigning your portfolio. The most prudent move would be to take your time and let Mr. Market’s moods slowly unfold. For the more aggressive investor who is seeking to profit from Mr. Market’s pirouettes, the first step is an evaluation of the positions currently in your portfolio. Positions in the Dow, S&P 500, and NASDAQ put you in a favorable position. Any active index fund portfolio should be biased towards the NASDAQ, which is heavily weighted by a number of large cap tech stocks, including Facebook, Amazon, Apple, and NVIDIA. They had a run up at the beginning of the year and just recently suffered a major pullback that could lead to renewed interest in them. As the year progressed and interest rates soared dramatically, active investors took profits from their index funds and moved cash into money market funds that paid interest rates equaling those found during the subprime crisis five years ago. For those who feel uncomfortable managing their own portfolio and prefer to hire a financial advisor for that job: Take heart! A recent Wall Street Journal article revealed that the use of index funds by financial professionals has doubled in the last two years. The methodology of choice among today’s investment advisors is a computer-driven robo account that uses a mix of active mutual funds and index funds to diversify across all sectors of the market. As you learn more about index funds and how they increase the efficiency of portfolios, you can feel more comfortable with your advisor and be able to converse with them more intelligently on the topic.

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. January 2024

The Green Thumb

The Health Benefits of Gardening Dig Your Way to Fitness!

By Linda Sutherland

Want to do wonders for your well-being and health? Then I strongly recommend you take up gardening. I have nothing against exercise classes or personal trainers, both of which work wonders for many people. For me, it’s the manual labor of gardening. There are so many positive aspects that I can’t stop myself from singing its praises! Let’s start with your physical health. All that digging, planting, and weed-pulling is really good for your heart. Manual labor provides cardiovascular benefits, strengthens muscles, and burns calories. Stress seems to be taking over our everyday life, and gardening is famous for reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. When you garden, you focus on something besides your problems. It gives you a chance to tune in to something creative and put your mind to work with a task and a goal in mind. Personally speaking, a good day in the garden always helps me sleep better. Gardening can also make you happier just through the simple action of getting your hands dirty in the soil. Digging and getting dirt under your nails is wonderful. In fact, the healthy bacteria that live in soil can actually increase levels of serotonin and reduce anxiety.

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Perhaps surprisingly, you can increase your hand strength by gardening. Just think of all that digging, pulling, and pruning! Working outdoors in your garden can also be an opportunity to get a healthy dose of vitamin D. All that sunshine increases your calcium levels, which benefits your bones and immune system. Sunlight can also help lower blood pressure and boost mood. If you decide to plant a vegetable garden, you will be getting fresh produce that you know for a fact has not been treated with pesticides. This is an opportunity to eat healthier because you know where your food is coming from. It can bring down the cost of fresh vegetables, too, and who doesn’t love the low stress that a full wallet can bring? Participating in a community garden brings its own benefits. You can provide nutritious food for other people in your neighborhood. Working in a garden with other people fosters

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the human connection and creates comfort, security, and a sense of community. This reward is increased if you work with children in the garden. It’s an excellent way to teach them the value of growing their own food and of participating in a community effort. Interestingly enough, there is evidence that gardening activities may spur growth in the brain’s memory-related nerves. Analysts have found that garden therapy might be an effective treatment for people with dementia. Something that I have learned from gardening is resilience. Nothing humbles a person more than a planting failure. You plant some species about which you have much enthusiasm but very little knowledge. Consequently, you plant it in the wrong area or don’t water it properly or for whatever reason, the planting just doesn’t make it. It is easy to become discouraged, but I have learned to not give up. I do my due diligence and learn why a particular species did not do well and then I try again the following year. If it still does not perform, I usually admit that the species in question may just not do well in my part of the country. But I don’t throw in the towel…I just try something different in that area and learn from my mistakes. Gardening has also taught me the art of patience. It takes a lot of patience (and I mean a lot) to see how some plants perform. With perennials, for instance, it takes three years to really tell if they will survive and flourish where they have been planted. The first year, they don’t do much. The second year, they creep a little. The third year is when they really show you what they are made of. Now, if that does not teach patience, I don’t know what does! Sometimes I just need to plant some annuals because they show you what they’ve got the same season that you plant them. One more valuable aspect of gardening is the learning process that comes along with it. Just because plant life can thrive without human caretakers doesn’t mean that the garden of your dreams comes naturally! A responsible gardener makes the effort to study the ins and outs of gardening, learning what works and what doesn’t work in their particular plot of earth. The more time goes by, the more of an expert a gardener becomes. We should never stop learning, and gardening teaches many lessons. Start planning your spring and summer gardens now. You will not be sorry!

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Enterprising Ideas

Bloom Companion Care Helping Seniors Bloom

By Deborah Daley

As the CEO and founder of Bloom Companion Care, Gretchen Radler has made it her mission to provide companion care that allows her senior clients to continue getting the most out of their lives as they age. It’s challenging and sometimes scary, Gretchen notes, when seniors realize they need help with daily life and need to seek out caregiving support.“Here at Bloom,”she says,“we want to make this time of life a positive experience. We want our clients to feel connected, to be able to go to lectures, play games with friends, be involved in the community. We want to enhance their quality of life.” Gretchen Radler, Founder, CEO

Gretchen came to the caregiving industry because of her family’s experience. Her in-laws moved from California to be closer to their grandchildren. Shortly thereafter, her father-in-law developed Alzheimer’s disease, and the couple needed additional care and support. “We were worried that our in-laws were isolating themselves and not engaging in life,” Gretchen recalls. “We found gaps in the services being provided at that

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time. I started my program with them as my first clients. I found competent home care professionals and developed a support plan for my in-laws.” That was 12 years ago, and Gretchen has been helping seniors bloom ever since. Customer service is integral to the company’s philosophy and comes naturally to Gretchen, who started her work life as a hairstylist. “Customer service and giving people a better life drives me,” she says. “This work fits my personality.”

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The care that Bloom Companion Care provides helps connect your aging loved ones to the outside world as their abilities shift. When it’s time to seek assistance, it’s hard to know how to find caregivers who understand and appreciate your loved ones. The client interview process at Bloom Companion Care helps caregivers to better understand your loved one’s contributions, curiosities, and legacy. Clients are then carefully matched with CNAs and companions who have the highest potential to appreciate and contribute to their well-being and to help them stay connected to the outside world. Bloom Companion Care offers concierge companion care at all levels. Whether you need a couple of hours a week to help out at home, 24/7 care, help with downsizing, transportation to errands and appointments, or more, they have you covered. The offerings are personalized to each individual’s needs. “We meet with clients to assess and navigate the elements of a care plan,” Gretchen says. “Most of our 100-plus staff members are certified and skilled in caregiving. Our care givers have the innate ability to enhance our clients’ quality of life.” When it comes to downsizing, Gretchen and her staff understand that the process needs to be undertaken with care and compassion. “We carefully choose pieces that speak to people’s hearts and are needed in their surroundings,” she says. “I am especially proud of the way we help our clients maximize their memories.”

Bloom Companion Care does a lot of good for their clients, but Gretchen knows they can’t do it all. She calls upon a vast network of community resources that she has developed over the years to assist with her needs. “First and foremost, it’s about aiding that person in whatever way is needed, even if it’s referring them to a different resource,” she shares. “It is all about their happiness, dignity, and engagement.” The work can be challenging because many individuals resist taking the step to seek help. In Gretchen’s experience, the most efficient way to success is to be frank and transparent during the discussion. “Because my staff is so conversant on these issues, we can help with the acceptance and understanding of what is possible.” The rewards are many. Gretchen especially loves when a past client’s family contacts her after their loved one has passed and relays how our services enhanced their loved one’s last chapter. Mitch C., of Omaha, used Bloom Companion Care for his mother. “Gretchen went above and beyond to help my mother,” he says. “She was extremely knowledgeable about what my mother’s needs were. I would recommend Bloom Companion Care to everyone.” If you or a loved one might need companion care soon, call Bloom Companion Care at 402-342-3040. You can also visit bloomcompanion.com for more information about the services they provide. Let them help your loved one bloom!

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

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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. Visit history.nebraska.gov.

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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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Income Outcome

Releasing Unresolved Anger Don’t Smash the Egg!

By Janet Van deWalle

“Patience is when you’re supposed to get mad, but you choose to understand.” —Anonymous

That’s easier said than done, right? I don’t know about you, but there have been many times in my life that I held my peace when I would have preferred to get angry. For decades, I have done a great job at hiding anger. I think a lot of it stems from my generation…being born in the 1950s, women were taught that we had to “put a sock in it.”Translation? Shut up. Thank goodness that is not the case today! “We spend the first twelve months of our children’s lives teaching them to walk and talk and the next twelve years telling them to sit down and shut up.” —Phyllis Diller

I was born in 1955. My mother gave birth to six children in 10 years. I was the youngest girl. Mom worked very hard, every day, taking care of our family and our home. I was mom’s helper “with the boys,” and Mom needed a lot of help. That is how I learned to be a caretaker and how to keep my mouth shut. I took this lesson into my first marriage, when I was just 20 years old. I did it with my two children. I did it when my late husband received a heart transplant in 1995. I would always put everyone before me. And I would shut up. Was I angry at times? Of course. Did I ever express it? Very rarely. The burial of my emotions created a mountain of unresolved negative trauma.

“Holding on to anger is like grasping a hot coal with the intent of throwing it at someone else; you are the one who gets burned.” —Buddha

With my husband Manny’s love, patience, trust, and help, I am working to face my demons. I am learning how to express my feelings in order to find a balance and my true inner self. This has been a real challenge. I have stumbled so many times I have lost count. I have discovered that my car is a great place to release my anger, reflect, find resolutions, and find my inner peace when my anger gets ahold of me. After all, it is not anyone’s fault that I buried all of this anger for so many years. I am very blessed to have a great circle of friends and a terrific therapist. (As my granddaughter Savannah told me several years ago,“Grandma, everyone needs a good therapist!”) “With love and patience, nothing is impossible.” —Daisuku Ikeda

I have come to realize that as I learn about my anger, I sometimes backslide, finger-point, and revert. Then my anger explodes…like a volcano. I have to cut myself some slack during the learning process. I need to have patience to find my inner peace within myself. I’ve got to stop smashing the egg! “The key to everything is patience. You get the chicken by hatching the egg, not by smashing it.” —Arnold H. Glasgow

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!

—Hannah Diediker, CSA

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Kids Comments

Read! Play! Chat! Love! Remember How to Be a Kid

By Marge Shoemaker

We’re beginning a new year. How can we make learning more fun for the kids? I have four suggestions: Read! Play! Chat! Love! Do your kids like to read? Reading should be fun, and it should be shared! I once took a class called Kiddy Lit. It was a great way for those used to factual reading to explore the world of imagination normally reserved for children. Writers for children often put a new spin on old stories. I found a book series titled The Real Story of ____. One retold The Three Little Pigs from the wolf’s point of view; another, based on The Frog Prince, asked, “Did they really live happily ever after?” At Christmas that year, I decided to share my gift from Santa and read a book to our adult kids. Some interesting… and fun…conversations resulted. Reading to kids who can’t read yet helps them learn and increases word knowledge. Even today, my first instinct is to share when I read something especially well written, interesting, or fun…and too good to keep to myself. Adults often forget to be playful. How often do you laugh out loud…even when you’re by yourself? Do you smile at something you find amusing or especially pleasing? I’ve heard people comment that seniors must be “in their second childhood because they never take anything seriously.”

I say, you can’t enter your second childhood when you’re still in contact with the first! It means taking time to watch a caterpillar crawl up a wall or to stop and make snow angels. It means indulging your senses of curiosity, wonder, joy, and awe. Staying in touch with the child within allows us to see the lighter side of life. Being joyful and curious not only provides a break for you; it also creates time to have chats with the kids...chats, not lectures. Take time when you’re doing chores together to share something you’ve read, heard, or seen. Ask the kids for their opinion…and listen to their response. A young friend had just finished reading Hans Brinker and the Silver Skates and remarked that some of it was hard to understand. We talked about why it was difficult and whether it was worth struggling through. “I’m glad I finished it,” she said. “I’ll lend it to you if you want to read it.” I did. It wasn’t easy reading, but I’m glad I put in the effort. Teach the kids with love and acceptance. Each of the activities you just read about involves adults sharing time with children. Think about how you learn best. Watch the kids to see when they are most successful. We all learn in various ways: by watching, demonstrating, trial and error, or looking it up. There’s no “one way” to learn…but it should definitely be fun.

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Auto Wise

Vehicle Batteries Cars Need a Charge

By Linda Sutherland

Car batteries are a crucial part of any vehicle. We know we need a car battery, and we sure know when ours isn’t working properly…but how do they work? The battery is used to start the engine. It does this by providing electricity to a small electrical motor known as the starter motor. The starter motor engages a small gear onto the flywheel of the engine. The gear then disengages and the engine runs by itself. The battery in your vehicle doesn’t have enough energy storage to run all the electrical components of your vehicle for long. It needs to be recharged! Connected to the engine is an important component called an alternator. The alternator is rotated by the engine. As it rotates, its motion generates electricity. This electricity is fed back into the battery to recharge it. That’s how driving your car regularly keeps your battery in working order. It works even more efficiently when you drive regularly at highway speeds. We may think of batteries as storing electricity, but that’s not quite the case. What they’re actually storing is chemical energy. This is an important distinction for vehicle batteries because of how it relates to the weather. Put simply, lowering temperatures cause chemical reactions to proceed more slowly. Therefore, if a battery is used at a low temperature, it produces less current than at higher temperatures. As a cold battery continues to wear down, it quickly reaches the point where it cannot deliver enough current to keep up. Conversely, excessive heat causes battery fluid to evaporate. If it evaporates too much, the internal structure of the battery could be compromised. A battery with clean terminals works best. A mixture of baking soda and water applied gently—gently!—with a wire brush can remove corrosion on your battery terminals. A thin layer of petroleum jelly can help prevent future corrosion. If you’re not confident about doing this yourself, ask your mechanic to show you how (or to take over the task). A dead battery can be dealt with temporarily by jump-starting the car. (If the battery is cracked or visibly leaking, do not try a jump-start.) To start the process, you need a set of jumper cables and another car with a functional (booster) battery. First, shut off both vehicles. Attach one of the red clips to the positive terminal of the dead battery and attach the other red clip to the positive terminal of the booster battery. Attach one of the black clips to the negative terminal of the booster battery. Then attach the last black clip to an unpainted metal surface on the car with the dead battery (choose a spot that isn’t near the battery). Start the booster car. Then, try to start the vehicle with the dead battery. Once it starts, do not shut the engine off right away! Unhook the cables (in reverse order) and drive around for at least 15 minutes to give the alternator time to recharge the battery. 52

January 2024

Conventional car batteries can last five to six years but usually will last only three to four years. An alternator typically lasts many years longer than that, but they don’t last forever. The symptoms of a bad battery and a bad alternator have a lot in common, so it can be hard to tell which one is the problem when your car won’t start. One way to find out is right after a jump-start. Once you’ve started your car, remove the jumper cables. If the engine stalls right away, it’s probably the alternator. If the engine stays on, it’s probably the battery that needs to be replaced. Most of today’s EVs use lithium-ion batteries. Experts say you can get 100,000 to 200,000 miles out of an EV battery. To extend your EV battery’s life, you should minimize exposure to extremely high temperatures when parked. It might sound reasonable to charge your EV battery to 100 percent and drain it down to 0 before charging it up again, but lithium-ion batteries actually last longer if they maintain a state of charge between 30 and 80 percent. EV battery performance can deteriorate if the charger is used constantly. If you don’t need to plug it in, don’t! Although the majority of EV owners charge their vehicles at home, EV charging stations for the public are growing in numbers. These stations are not immune to equipment failure. If you’re planning to drive a long distance, it’s best to map out some charging stations in advance and plan your stops. Here’s to safe and happy winter driving! Sources for this article included: repairsmith.com, autozone.com, and kbb.com.

Inside Look

Atrium Tree Service

The Art and Craft of Tree Work

By Linda Sutherland

There are many notable old sayings regarding trees. You’ve probably heard some of them, like“learn character from trees, values from roots, and change from leaves.”Or how about,“if you would know strength and patience, welcome the company of trees.”There is a reason that there are so many inspirational quotes about trees…trees are life! And someone who knows all about that is Grant Foster of Atrium Tree Service. This man’s love and respect for trees cannot be denied. ment to After just a few minutes talking to Grant about his business, you will understand how much he loves what he does. remove Grant Foster, Owner About six years ago, Grant was working as a roofing contractrees safely tor and felt it was time to make a career change. He heard and effiabout a tree service business that was for sale and put his ciently, even from small or confined spaces. “Creativity and creativity to work on the idea. After doing much research and problem-solving are very important parts of this business,” weighing all the pros and cons, Grant made the leap to the Grant says. “At Atrium Tree Service, we are willing to take on tree service business. difficult tree removals that another company may not want to This Nebraska native has a distinct pride in ownership touch.” He reiterates that “no matter what the job or level of and a great love for his family. Grant has been married to difficulty, safety is always first.” his lovely wife for 18 years, and they are raising their five Have you ever had a tree professionally removed only to children together. Grant’s wife be left tripping over the stump? Tree homeschools the kids and manages stumps are unattractive and can be their day-to-day lives while Grant a hazard to your landscape. Atrium The number one priority focuses on the business. Tree Service does stump grinding to Tree servicing can be a very for Grant is always safety— rid you of that eyesore. They usually challenging business…and a dangrind six to 12 inches below the for his employees and for gerous one! The number one priorisurface of the ground and about ty for Grant is always safety—for his his customers. a foot wider than the diameter of employees and for his customers. the stump to ensure that it is gone His next priority is the quality of his once and for all. And after a tree is company’s work. Grant’s team is made up of some excellent removed from your property, they can plant another one to people who work together like a well-oiled machine. take its place. What services does Atrium Tree Service provide? They do I asked Grant about the rewards of running his own tree trimming and pruning of trees, for starters. Professionally service business. “To be honest,” he says, “it is really a calling. pruned trees are aesthetically pleasing, but that’s not the You need to have a love of the natural world, of getting your only benefit. Trimming a healthy tree gives it better access to hands dirty, and of doing rugged work. What I do is pretty sunlight, which improves the health of the tree. When you awe-inspiring and magical, and the experience gives me a improve a tree’s health, you increase its productivity and help terrific energy.” Part of his purpose is to develop the next to counterbalance root loss. generation of climbers, and he is proud of the team he has Atrium Tree Service also does tree removal service. There assembled. “You have to be a special and unique person to are many reasons that it might be wise to remove a tree. A climb trees, and the art and skill set for that are nothing short tree could be dead or dying, could be severely damaged in a of miraculous.” storm, could be growing too close to your home, or could be If you are in the market for tree services, including leaning dangerously. In some cases, a tree can be simply too planting, pruning, trimming, or removal, please call Grant at large for its location and can present a danger to its sur402-612-9501. Atrium Tree Service is open Monday through roundings. No matter why you need to remove a tree, it’s not Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Saturdays by appointa good idea to remove it yourself. Hiring a professional tree ment. You can learn more at atriumtreeservicellc.com. Atrium service ensures that the job is done properly and safely, by Tree Service is located at 1508 North Saddle Creek Road, in professionals who have the proper training and equipment. Grant and his team use the latest techniques and equipOmaha. January 2024

Vantage Point

3 Day Kitchen & Bath It’s Not Just a Cover-Up!

by Linda Sutherland

When you step into your kitchen, do you feel inspired? Is it inviting for cooking or congregating? Does your kitchen function well or make sense for this stage of your life? Do you wish you could overhaul the space but dread giving it up for an extended period of construction? If you want a new kitchen (or bath) in a matter of days, you need to call Sonja Skadberg of 3 Day Kitchen & Bath.

Sonja is the local owner of 3 Day Kitchen & Bath Dealership in the Omaha area. She often faces skepticism that her team can remodel a kitchen or bath in such a short amount of time, but it really happens! She has been doing just that for years, and she loves getting the job done. Before we go any further, I should mention that this

Sonja Skadberg, Owner

is not a cover-up or refinishing job. This is the real deal, floor to ceiling, cabinetry, countertops, plumbing, and electrical…they do it all. They take pride in their craftmanship and use the finest materials. If you have ever had a room remodeled, you know the average job lasts for what seems like an eternity. It

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.”

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can be two months, three months, or even longer, as days can go by with no one even showing up. How do Sonja and her crew do a custom kitchen or bath in a matter of days, without cutting corners? 3 Day Kitchen & Bath has a very streamlined process, uses the same crew on every job, and is committed to the process, even if it requires long days. When asked how she became affiliated with 3 Day Kitchen & Bath, Sonja explains that she owned a small business in Lincoln doing similar work on a much smaller scale. She and her husband called 3 Day Kitchen & Bath of Lincoln to remodel their kitchen and possibly a bathroom. They ended up doing the entire main floor of their house in only 2 weeks! Sonja was so impressed with the process and the quality that she said she would like to work for Scott Goode, the owner of 3 Day Kitchen & Bath Dealership in Lincoln. Eventually, it was decided that she should purchase the Omaha territory. Sonja has a history of observing construction and remodeling job sites with her father from an early age. As a child, during summers and after school, she preferred to be with her dad, watching his crew pour the foundation for a new home or tagging along out to the gravel pits on Saturday afternoons. Years later, her mother owned a home décor retail business, employing a number of women who could design and create beautiful spaces. Sonja came from parents who she credits as being creative and resourceful, placing great emphasis on making their home as comfortable and aesthetically pleasing as possible. What is the first step to a new dream kitchen or bath?

First, call Sonja to set up an initial appointment to discuss the project you have in mind. The first meeting is rather extensive, as you will discuss the look you’re going for, materials, timeframe, and budget. The second appointment is spent finalizing the design, the materials, the cost, and when to begin the project. When asked about her achievements in this field thus far, Sonja points without hesitation to her mentor and her crew. “Scott has been invaluable in helping me along the way,” she says, “and my crew has become like family. We work closely with each other and address potential issues before we begin any project.” Sonja reaps great rewards from the friendships she has made with her customers and crew. Sonja loves to hear her customers’ ideas and dreams and takes great pleasure in making those dreams come true. The custom work that her crew does, combined with their professional approach, is certainly exceptional. The craftmanship that they bring to the job is top-notch! There’s nothing they enjoy more than providing stellar service to customers who are always awestruck that they got the job done on time and on budget! This remodeling process will work for anyone who wants a new, updated, and functional kitchen or bath but doesn’t want to share their life with a construction crew for weeks or months on end. Give Sonja a call today at 402-513-0216 or learn more at 3daykitchen.com.

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View From the Top

Healing and Support Through Grief Heafey Hoffmann Dworak & Cutler

By Charlene Pierce

The past few years have reminded us that grief is an inescapable part of the human experience. During the height of the pandemic, daily death rates surged to alarming levels, and the emotional toll of loss weighed heavily on countless families. For this and many other reasons, people are grappling with the lingering effects of grief, and grief counselor Nancy Nilsson understands the significance of addressing these emotions. Thanks to family-owned Heafey Hoffmann Dworak & Cutler Mortuaries & Crematory, Nancy provides supportive help free of charge to families and individuals who need it. Grief touches each of us at some point in our lives, and it’s not always during the moments we’d expect. “Grief can blindside you,” Nancy explains. “Gone unaddressed, it can become more intense months or even years after your loss.” When a loved one passes away, those left behind are often consumed with the immediate tasks of making arrangements and dealing with personal effects. They may need to sell a home or relocate, distracting them from processing the profound change in their lives. At first, it may seem that grief will fade away on its own, replaced by a semblance of normalcy. However, as time passes, the roller coaster of emotions can reveal itself as far more complex and persistent than expected. Ideally, Nancy points out, the natural process of grief should lead individuals to a stage of acceptance where they can cherish their best memories and move forward with their lives. However, the path through mourning can be complicated. Some people may find themselves unable to accept the death, grappling with intense sorrow, bitterness, guilt, and isolation. Those dealing with long-term, complicated grief should seek help through one-on-one counseling with a mental health professional. Heafey Hoffmann Dworak & Cutler is committed to supporting their clients and communities. They understand the importance of addressing the emotional needs of those working through the loss of a loved one, which is why they have a dedicated grief counselor on staff. Three grief support groups for adults are available. No registration is required, and participants are encouraged to bring friends if they are anxious about attending for the first time. Nancy covers different aspects of the grieving process at each group meeting. She has also arranged for estate attorneys, advanced planning specialists, and other speakers to attend. It’s all part of the holistic approach to healing that Heafey Hoffmann Dworak & Cutler encourages and supports. The importance of community and understanding during periods of mourning cannot be overstated. While friends and family members often mean well, they may struggle to find the right words or actions to support someone who is griev56

January 2024

ing. Those in mourning Nancy Nilsson may not even know what they need themselves. However, attending a support group at Heafey Hoffmann Dworak & Cutler can provide participants with the language to express their feelings, needs, and boundaries. Being part of a community of people who understand grief not only validates what the grieving person is experiencing and offers solace and non-judgmental support. While Nancy imparts valuable information in her groups and one-on-one sessions, she believes that the primary benefit for participants lies in the connections and relationships formed with others who have lost a loved one. Some people continue attending for years, they have formed enduring bonds of friendship and finding new purpose in helping others through their grief journeys. Support groups are held in the meeting rooms at Heafey Hoffmann Dworak & Cutler Mortuaries & Crematory, at 7805 West Center Road. Two groups meet on the second Sunday of the month, one from 4:00-5:00 p.m. and the other from 6:00-7:00 p.m. Another group meets on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month at 10:00 a.m. Heafey Hoffmann Dworak & Cutler also hosts social groups that offer opportunities to go out and share meals with others, creating spaces where laughter and camaraderie coexist with healing. Beginning in January 2024, “The Lunch Bunch” will meet every Wednesday at 11 a.m. at Tanner’s, located at 1202 South 119th Street. All are welcome; no reservation is required. Guests pay for their own meal. If you or someone you know is struggling with grief, consider reaching out to Nancy at Heafey Hoffmann Dworak & Cutler by calling 402-391-3900. Healing is possible; you don’t have to walk this path alone. Share this information with those who may benefit from it. Together, you can find a way forward through the sorrow. Learn more at heafeyheafey. com/heafey-support-groups.

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Home Works

Keep Your Home Cozy Revitalize Your Hearth!

By Anne Yankus

It’s already the peak of the cold season, but it’s never too late to add a little warmth to your house with a new fireplace! Whether you have an existing fireplace to renovate or are looking to install a new one, there are a lot of popular designs to choose from this year. Natural stone fireplaces, specifically marble, are making a comeback this year, and they bring a little warmth without disrupting the style of a cool-toned room. Two-toned fireplaces and curved hearths are also popular, as well as metal finishes and full-height features. Fluted finishes are making their way from kitchen islands and furniture to contemporary fireplaces, adding a nice texture to an otherwise minimalist look. Now, those all may sound like amazing ideas for someone who is building a new fireplace. What do you do if you’ve already got an existing fireplace in a style that you don’t particularly care for? Reface it, that’s what! Refacing a fireplace is a more complicated job than adding veneer to your cabinets, but it’s still a relatively low-mess remodeling job. With the right professionals and supplies, your old fireplace can be torn down and refaced within a day or two. After you choose a new material for your fireplace, the refacing process involves removing the existing mantle and

trim, demolishing the current surface, installing a new cement board (if a smooth surface doesn’t already exist underneath), and placing the new surface. This can also be a great opportunity to change what kind of hearth you have currently: moving from traditional wood-burning or gas to electric or vice versa. One way to improve almost any hearth is to have a fireplace insert installed. Fireplace inserts are fireproof boxes made of steel or cast iron and insulated glass that fit into your existing fireplace to increase its energy efficiency. Without an insert, a traditional fireplace can only realistically heat your home with five to 10 percent efficiency, which really defeats the purpose of using it. Inserts can be powered by electricity, gas, propane, wood, pellets, or coal, which make them a great way to change your fireplace’s fuel type simply and easily. Maybe you don’t have an existing fireplace to renovate, though, and maybe the idea of building a chimney or flue onto your home to accommodate a new fireplace is just

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too much for you. That’s okay, because Enhance Your Landscaping With there is now an alternative: the ventless Beautiful Concrete Curbing! Interior Remodelers… fireplace. Ventless fireplaces are designed Trusted Services • Custom Options Locally owned and Operated to burn gas more cleanly and efficientHighly Reviewed • Expert Staff ly than traditional gas fireplaces, thus Professional concrete curbing is the ideal eliminating the need for an exhaust flue. finishing landscape touch. Installing a ventless fireplace is tricky • Makes regular lawn maintenance easy Kitchens • Bathrooms • Superior root barrier, so grass won’t begin work, though, and requires thorough to spread into your flower beds testing by a professional installer to Painting • Flooring • Plumbing make sure the gas is burning correctly and the fireplace or insert is functioning All Interior Work safely as intended. If you love your traditional brick fireplace but can finally acknowledge that it’s seen better days, you can spruce it up without changing its look. The service you need is called tuck pointing. Tuck pointing is the process of repairing (that is, repointing) the mortar joints in between existing bricks. It’s the same process that is used on brick exteriors. Professional tuck pointing can make an antique fireplace with loose brickwork look like new. Call today… It can also help maintain its structural L-R Bryce and Tyler Hasenauer, Owners We answer our integrity, which is a feature no fireplace Call today for a FREE estimate! own phones! should be without! 402-577-0699 Even fireplaces that are in good repair need attention to keep them working Dave & Jasmine curbcurb.net Five star rating Gonzalez, Owners soundly year after year. Regular maintenance and safety are important to keep your fireplace burning for many years to Curb Curb.indd 1 12/8/23 3:03 TopPM Lift.indd 2 5/11/23 8:19 AM come. Most of this maintenance inons s a e volves keeping things properly cleaned. S tings e The exterior of your fireplace should be Gre Our s r m cleaned every six weeks, and the chimney Fro to You y l i should be professionally cleaned once per Fam year (or after every 80 gas or wood fires Artistically Designed and Skillfully burned). Don’t keep any fire lit for longer Crafted Custom Frames than five hours at a time. Clean the fireGinger’s Hang-Up has been the area’s box at least once per week, but don’t ever framing experts for the last 45 years. try to clean out your coals until they’ve fully cooled. You’ll have fun choosing styles and heating options, whether your home fireplace project is a newly built hearth and chimney or refacing and improving the energy efficiency of the fireplace you already love to use. Installing or repairing a fireplace isn’t like putting in a new microwave, though. Make sure to call certified professionals to Custom Framing • Local Art help you install new equipment, and keep your fireplace burning safely for a long time with regular professional cleanings. As long as you play it smart and safe, there’s no reason you can’t have the new fireplace of your dreams, keeping your Stop in today home efficiently warm all winter long! 8455 Frederick Street • (402) 391-6440 Sources for this article included: livingingershangup.com getc.com, bobvila.com, and hgtv.com

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Good Life

Getting Organized

Restore Order in Your Home

By Angella Arndt

Is your home organized as well as you’d like? Are you able to quickly locate items, or do you find yourself spending time searching through clutter to find what you need? If you feel that you’re surrounded by chaos, it’s time to restore order in your home.

The benefits of an organized home go beyond improving the look and functionality of your living space. According to Psychology Today, “Several studies show a correlation between disorganization, clutter, and mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and stress. Messy environments can cause frustration, helplessness, and feeling overwhelmed.” Organizing and decluttering can actually improve self-esteem, increase productivity, and build healthy habits. A clean, orderly home can brighten your mood, help you relax, and promote better sleep. Before getting started, set realistic expectations. Achieving and maintaining organization is an ongoing practice. And things may get messier during the process. To begin, select one room in your home that needs decluttering. Schedule time every day to work on this area, even if it is only 10 or 15 minutes. Set achievable goals for each session, such as cleaning one drawer. Set up a staging area with bags or boxes that are labeled Donate, Sell, Recycle, Shred, Other Rooms, and Trash. Thoughtfully evaluate each item and consider whether you use it or have duplicates. At the end of each session, put items from other rooms back where they belong. Once you’ve identified which items you are keeping, you can select containers that best fit your needs. Containers are fun to shop for, but don’t buy any until you have a good handle on what you need and what you already have. Things you have on hand, like shoe boxes, shipping boxes, baskets, or mason jars, may work for storage. Always label the containers. If you spend a lot of time rummaging for clothing, accessories, or shoes, organizing your closet will save you time and aggravation every single day. Once you’ve thinned the herd, you can choose to store your clothes according to type, color, style, or complete outfits to save time when deciding what to wear. First, however, you need to make some choices. The first step is to dispose of anything that is too worn, stained, or torn to be salvaged. Next, sort items one at a time into piles labeled Love/Like It, Hate It, and Undecided. Love/ Like It means you wear it often or reasonably often; Hate It means you do not wear it; Undecided means you keep it because it was expensive or you received it as a gift. Next, go through the Undecided pile and put each item in one of the other two piles. Place the items in the Hate It pile into bags or boxes to consign or donate. Review the empty closet space. Does its current configuration meet your storage needs? Are there enough hang62

January 2024

ing bars and shelves? Are the poles and shelves adjustable, making the space flexible to accommodate items of various sizes? If you hang most of your items, you may need rods for blouses, dresses, or slacks at multiple levels. Shelves and cubbies work well for sweaters and accessories like shoes, handbags, and belts. Hooks are great for scarves, belts, and jewelry. Many companies offer custom closets and cabinets to create efficient storage solutions. They will do a home visit to get to know you and your space before they present a plan to meet your storage needs. If you’re not confident that you can get organized on your own, hire a professional organizer. They have the perspective and expertise to help you navigate the process and save time. They can help organize and declutter specific rooms or your entire home. They can assist with chronic disorganization and improve workflow. Some professionals specialize in organizing information, data, photos, or multimedia. Others specialize in cataloging and displaying collections. Before hiring a professional organizer, consider how you want them to help. Set priorities and establish your budget. Ask friends and family for references. Make sure you choose an organizer who is trained and experienced in the type of organizational services you need. Ask them to describe their process and a typical working session. Will you work with the organizer, an employee, or a subcontractor? Do they provide a written agreement? Ask about the fee structure and cancellation policy. Ask for references. Asking key questions will ensure you stay within budget and hire a professional organizer who meets your expectations. An organized home makes you feel better, saves time, and provides a calm, welcoming environment. Plus, you’ll have a home that you can be proud to share with family and friends. Sources for this article include: bbb.org, hgtv.com, and psychologytoday.com.

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Positive Perspective

A New Way for New Year’s Resolutions Imagine a Positive Future

It’s time for New Year’s resolutions! As soon as I typed that, I felt a collective groan coming from the residents of the entire city of Omaha. Do you know anyone who really enjoys going through this process each year? Are resolutions just a hangover from years gone by, when our parents encouraged or demanded that we make them? Is there anyone out there who has actually stuck to their resolutions for more than a few months? This year…let’s try some different, more positive words. “You are worthy of a good life. Let go of stress. Breathe. Stay positive. All is well.” —Germany Kent

Boy, that felt good! Setting a positive tone first thing in the morning will have a whole lot more positive impact than resolving to lose 10 pounds. I believe I can focus on a positive tone every day in 2024…for at least a little bit each day. “Make today worth remembering.” —Zig Ziglar

Some of my most positive, memorable days came about because I took the time to be kind to someone. Perhaps it was the checkout person at the grocery store, whom I made laugh. Or the server who smiled when I remembered their name. Or the smile that comes from a complete stranger when I give them a sincere compliment. I can do that every day. “Live out of your imagination instead of out of your memory.” —Les Brown

By Janet Van deWalle

This one is going to take a little more effort. Most of us have the tendency to reflect on the past…the good, the bad, and the ugly. Instead of looking backwards, make the choice to imagine how we want today, tomorrow, and 2024 to be. This will create an entirely different year for us. I think this one is worth the effort. Let’s find our joy! “Be the one who is so busy loving yourself that you have no time for regrets, drama, or negativity.” —Mindful Life

Hmm. Maybe this one should be first on the list? If we look at the general theme of most New Year’s resolutions, what we’ll see is a goal to fix something about ourselves. The problem is that when we shine the spotlight on what is wrong with us, it has a tendency to blind us from seeing what is right with us! Saying what we want in 2024, and starting with loving ourselves, will make it easier to accomplish so much more than we ever have in the past. “When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.” —Paulo Coelho

And last, but not least? “Laugh more…every single day.” —Anonymous

We need to find the things that bring us joy! Everything else will come together. Happy New Year.

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