Spring Inspiration - May 2018

EE018 FRAY 2

M

Create an Outdoor Space

Clean & Green Recipes

Spring

Inspiration Essential • Entertaining • Enlightening WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Look Who’s Talking Denise King

GO T S C R AP?

DI V ISION ME TAL

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Our office is conveniently located just off US 131 on 11th St. Please visit our website for more detailed information.

Front row: Joseph Riethman, MD, FACOG Patti Zull, CNM, FNP-BC Back row: Lori Kellogg, CNM Brittany Post, WHNP-BC Carter Lomax, MD, FACOG Carly Davis, MD, FACOG Marcia Johnson, MD, FACOG Wendy Bauer, MD, FACOG

OB-GYN P.C. 269.345.6197 2854 S 11th St Kalamazoo, MI www.obgynpc.com

2018

May

LIFE

8 10 Ways to Leap into May 15 Here’s a Thought: Hold My Wine While I Putt 17 Love Children? Become a Foster Parent 23 Consent: Teach Your Kids Positive Relationship Skills 30 Five Tips for a More Fulfilling Relationship

STYLE

20 Transform Your Bathroom – At-Home Oasis 24 Create an Outdoor Space Beyond Your Porch

HEALTH & BEAUTY

12 Spring Fashion – Making the Most of the Season 18 Balancing Act: How to Straighten Out Your Hormones 19 Bone Health – What Really Matters 27 A Strong Leader: Working Out with Your Kids

FOOD & DRINK

28 Plant-Based Recipes Shoestring Parsnip Chips Tahini Ginger Sauce Herb Roasted Carrot Salad Turmeric Springtime Veggie Bowl

LOOK WHO’S TALKING

22 Denise King – H ospice Care of SW Michigan

TASTES FROM THE KITCHEN 26 Shawarma King

The People Who Make It Happen...

Publisher: Darlene Mohr dcmohr@wlskazoo.com Editor: Erica Shier eshier@wlskazoo.com Contributing Writers: Andrew Domino Kelly Duggan Heidi McCrary Erica Shier Ashley Carter Youngblood Sales Manager: Suzannah Zerbe szerbe@wlskazoo.com Layout & Design: Alicia Carlston acarlston@wlskazoo.com Event Coordinator: Heather Dombos hdombos@wlskazoo.com

K N O W L E D G E µ S U C C E S S µ P O W

Photography: K. Redmond Photography fb/kredmondphotography Administrative: Patty Clifford pclifford@wlskazoo.com Contact Us: 269-350-5227 Sales Info: 269-365-8254

By Mail: Greater Kalamazoo Women’s LifeStyle P. O. Box 2284 Portage, MI 49081-2284

By Email: info@wlskazoo.com editor@wlskazoo.com sales@wlskazoo.com Website: WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com WomensLifeStyleKazooExpo.com

LEARN & DO

10 Spring Cleaning: Get Your Files Organized 14 Plant We All Just Get Along 34 Reader’s Lounge

WLSK Proudly Supports

COMMUNITY NEWS & HAPPENINGS

6 Kalamazoo Happenings – MASTERMIND 32 Calendar

4

May 2018

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Inspiring healthcare careers.

Positivity is about more than advancing the health of our community today.

It’s also about advancing it tomorrow.

That’s why, at Bronson, we reach out to area youth and help them explore the many possible careers that exist in healthcare. It’s why we support our staff’s passion for learning with scholarships and tuition reimbursement. And it’s why we continue our decades-long dedication to training the next generation of healthcare professionals.

As southwest Michigan’s leading health system and top employer, we’re proud of the caring team we have serving our community today, and the one we’re building for the future.

Join us. For more, visit bronsonhealth.com/careers.

Or follow us on Facebook.

FROMTHEPUBLISHER

I

T’S HERE. Thank goodness it is finally here! Every morning when I get out of bed to daylight I am thrilled. When there’s still some of that precious daylight left over after dinner I find myself still going strong, eager and willing to go outside and get my hands in the dirt.

Springtime is finally here in Kalamazoo and we have waited long enough! Let’s make sure we enjoy every minute.

On these pages we have “planted” many ideas for springtime, from gardening to walking for bone health to tips on how to create an inviting outdoor space.

Finding something new and fresh to enrich your days is always a wonderful and worthwhile endeavor. Whether it’s a recipe to try, a spring trend to add to your wardrobe or an idea on how to get more out of your relationships, we are confident you’ll find something new to try in our pages this month.

The month of May brings us several reasons to celebrate: Mother’s Day, Graduations, Memorial Day and Emancipation Day. Why not plan a party for each of these important days?

My heart is touched by how many amazing women in our community will be celebrating them on a personal level. We want to thank you all for being such a vital part of our community.

Whether you are a hard working MOM, a senior graduating from school, a person of color commemorating Emancipation Day or someone remembering a loved one who was lost during their service to our great nation – we salute you.

Now get outside and have some fun. We plan to do the same, right before we return to our desks to get ready for next month.

~

Darlene

KALAMAZOO HAPPENINGS A WOMEN’S GROUP DESIGNED FOR WOMEN IN GREATER KALAMAZOO The April MASTERMIND dinner focused on the growing problem of human trafficking. Our guest speakers were Sara Morley-LaCroix, founder of the Kalamazoo Anti-Human Trafficking Coalition and Jessica Glynn, Senior Director of Law & Policy for the YWCA. April’s Dinner was sponsored by Kalamazoo Valley Habitat for Humanity. Learn more about this important issue at kahtc.org.

We were honored to welcome the following guests: Representative Jon Hoadley, Peter Dickow, West Michigan Regional Director for U.S. Senator Gary Peters, Mayor Patricia Randall, and KDPS Chief Carrianne Thomas.

May’s meeting will feature a tabletop workshop focusing on developing and maintaining Professional Presence. Don’t wait, register today!

NEXT MEETING: WHERE: Fetzer Center – WMU DATE: Tues, May 8 TIME: 11:30a – 1:00p Lunch will be served at 12:00p TOPIC: Professional Presence COST: $20.00 Register by Wednesday, May 2 at 8:00p: tinyurl.com/ybdu7ze6

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May

10 Ways to Leap into

As spring comes in full force, we experience the sense of renewal and rejuvenation.

Here are 10 ways to energize yourself at the change of the season.

BY PEACHES MCCAHILL

1 2

Start your day by breathing in the invigorating spring air.

4

Start your garden.

7

Treat yourself to a pedicure and break out your peep toes.

Pack away your winter clothes and prep your wardrobe for spring and summer.

5

Fill your bird feeders and enjoy the sweet song of birds returning for spring.

“Something in the air made me feel like flying.”

– Eileen Granfors

Bust out the chalk and draw pictures on the sidewalk.

9

Indulge in one of the season’s best offerings: Steamed Artichokes.

8

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May 2018

10

Leave your windows open and let fresh air fill your home.

6

Deep clean your space and remove all clutter.

8

Celebrate the warm weather and make a pitcher of Sangria.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Peaches McCahill is founder and president of The McCahill Group, a leading provider of health, wellness, beauty and talent solutions, and owner of M Power Studio. She has a passion to inspire others with simplistic lifestyle suggestions.

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

QUALITY CARE IN THE

spring at

COMFORT OF

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Bronson at Home offers services in nine counties across southwest Michigan.

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5015 E. Michigan Ave, Ste B | Kalamazoo | 269.447.1170 Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

May 2018

9

Spring Cleaning Get Your Files Organized

BY SANDY K DERBY, ChFC, CASL, LUTCF | CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ | VP Old National Investments

I

t’s springtime! The chaos of the holidays is long gone, spring break is over and summer hasn’t arrived yet. Excuses are easy to come by, when summer is in full-swing, so why not take advantage of this temporary lull and get your files in order now? It doesn’t matter if they are on your computer, the cloud or in print, you need a system that you can follow easily.

If you are like me, there is still far too much mail coming into the house, and I don’t have time to read it all every day, so I keep three large baskets and use them as my first order of separation. One is for shredding, one for recycle, and one for action needed/ filing.

MY CATEGORIES:

Not as many as there once was!

On my computer and/or in file drawer:

Bills Due: Unless you need them for tax purposes, pay them and shred them. You can usually get a copy if you really need one later.

Insurance policies: Keep a file for each, and shred the old when you get your renewal.

Medical: Pay and shred the bills. Most providers

can give you a copy of services if requested. Keep

medical information, such as prescriptions or medical conditions, diagnosis and such.

Taxes/Tax Deductible Expenses/Donations:

I drop everything into one folder all year and then organize them for my taxes in January. Keep receipts and mileage. I keep tax returns for 7 years.

Manuals: This file is much smaller than it used

to be, as most of this info is available on-line now, so I don’t have stacks of bulky booklets. But I still keep the ones I know I will need. I use a large Ziploc to keep everything intact, and file them in a hanging folder. (Recycle the ones that are outdated).

Bank Statements: One year is long enough, IF you still get them in the mail.

Financial Statements: Keep year-end statements to track activity for tax purposes.

HAVE A CENTRAL LOCATION FOR ALL YOUR IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS AND ACCOUNT INFORMATION. If your documents are stored in several locations around the house, you may not be able to grab them all fast enough to get you, your family and the documents out of the house in case of emergency.

* Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC. Insurance products offered through LPL Financial or its licensed affiliates. Old National Bank & Old National Investments are not registered broker/dealers and are not affiliated with LPL Financial.

Old National Bank, Old National Investments, and LPL Financial are separate entities.

Why Old National Investments?

Personal. Professional. Principled. Build the future you envision with a trusted advisor who listens to your goals and helps you create a suitable plan for your life. Sandy has 29 years of experience as a financial advisor and specializes in retirement and income planning.

Talk with Sandy Derby about your financial plan at 269-459-0474.

The thought of losing photos of my children is heartbreaking, but losing their original birth certificates upsets me even more.

MAKE A LIST OF EMERGENCY CONTACTS. If you became seriously ill, had an accident, or needed any kind of assistance, would your caretaker (or even first responders) be able to contact family, friends or clergy? It is important to have a single location that has the names, phone numbers and addresses of the people you want contacted.

KEEP AN INVENTORY OF YOUR ASSETS AND LIABILITIES. Sit down and make a list of the assets/ accounts you own, their location, account numbers, contact phone numbers, addresses and due dates.

Could someone else step in and easily pay your bills for you without knowing what you owe and to whom?

Also, consider storing copies of important documents including wills, birth certificates, legal documents and immunization records inside an “online” vault. The right service will allow you to access these documents immediately, and most importantly, will have sophisticated security systems to alleviate concerns that others could obtain access to your confidential information. If you are not comfortable with on-line, get a fire-proof safe, or a safe deposit box at a bank.

-Not FDIC Insured -Not Bank Guaranteed -May Lose Value -Not insured by any Federal Government Agency -Not a Bank Deposit

Sandy Derby, CFP®, ChFCTM LPL Financial Advisor, VP Southwest Michigan Region 5003 Century Ave Kalamazoo, MI 49006 269-459-0474 oldnational.investments

Securities and Investment Advisory Services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor. Member FINRA/ SIPC. Insurance products offered through LPL Financial or its licensed affiliates. Old National Bancorp and Old National Investments; not registered broker/dealers; not affiliated with LPL Financial.

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May 2018

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

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Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

May 2018

11

Spring Fashion

BY JANAE THOMAS

T

his spring, invest wisely in some key fashion pieces to maximize your wardrobe as the weather transitions. Adding a few carefully chosen items to your clothing collection can help you put together different spring looks while staying on budget!

PASTELS

Look for pastel tones to bring a romantic touch to your existing wardrobe.

You can mix and match spring pastels with many key clothing staples you already own to add more color to any outfit!

COLD SHOULDERS

Cold shoulder tops are perfect for the transition in weather that spring in Michigan brings. The cold shoulder style is available in both heavier and lighter fabrics, which offers options for both cool and warm days in the spring.

They’re also a good choice for those who like modest styles, but still want to occasionally explore edgier trends.

SPRING SCARF Leave your heavier knit scarves behind and look for lighter scarves made out of polyester, cotton and silk material. An airy scarf can be the perfect accessory to add a little pizzazz to transitional outfits. Spring is all about vibrant prints and colors, so be adventurous when choosing a scarf to brighten up your look!

KIMONO

Kimonos are great layering pieces for spring weather. They come in a variety of different prints, patterns and colors to suit your personal style. The right kimono will make a great statement piece for the spring!

CARDIGAN

A stylish cardigan is the perfect addition to any spring outfit. It will keep you warm on cooler spring days, but a lightweight one will still leave you cool enough when the sun comes out. Go neutral for versatility or pick a vibrant hue to add a splash of color to your spring style.

Janae Thomas is a Fashion Merchandising student at Western Michigan University, graduating in April 2018. She is passionate about writing, fashion, & the empowerment of women. Headshot

by Robin Maxim.

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May 2018

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Relief for Your Winter-Weary Skin

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A PLASTIC SURGEON?

A March special that will pamper you from head to toe.

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Drs. Messinger and Stephens provide a wide range of cosmetic, medical and reconstructive surgery procedures including:

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• Workshops and Masterclasses • Crescendo Fiddlers • Kalamazoo Mandolin & Guitar Orchestra • Chamber Ensembles for strings and winds • Crescendo Community Voices for teens andCare adults & with mental Skin Cosmetic and/or physical challenges up Center • Orff Studio group classes for ages 5 andLaser • Music Together® classes for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers 7901 S. 12thinSt., Suite 100 Member • Epic Broadwary! musical theater camp begins June!

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• Breast surgery • Body contouring • Congenital deformities • Body and facial cosmetics • Reconstructive procedures Drs. Messinger and Stephens are committed to providing you the expert, personalized care you deserve.

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Both are accepting new patients.

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Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

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May 2018

13

P

Plant We All Just Get Along?

BY RICK VUYST

lanning to do some planting this spring? There is an old military adage that states, “No battle plan survives contact with the enemy.” In your garden, the enemy can take many forms; a plant placed in the wrong spot, limited space to grow, not enough shade or sun, poor air circulation or soil that won’t encourage good root growth. In these conditions, the plant can weaken, making it subject to attack from disease, exposure and insects. Take the time to determine what the projected size of the plant is going to be. This applies to any plant, from vegetables in your garden, the flowers for a container to the tree planted near your house or the houseplant hanging out in your living room corner.

Diversity is vital to creating an eye-catching landscape. Mix large-leafed plants with smaller leaves; long grass-like foliage with plants of horizontal habit; foundational evergreens with showy deciduous plants; woody plants with rough-textured foliage with smooth broad leaves. As your eye scans the landscape, it can rest on points of interest as opposed to a mishmash of similar sizes and shapes.

GOOD PLANT COMBINATIONS INCLUDE THESE ELEMENTS: Different growth habits (upright, pendula, filler, spreading, etc.)

Various textures (glossy, ribbed, soft, leathery, evergreen, etc.)

A range of leaf sizes: (narrow, wide, small, large, elongated, etc.)

Drifts or odd numbers.

Good use of color.

A mix of abundance and excess, allowing the eye a place to land.

Color

Complementary colors such as blue and yellow, play against each other for dramatic vibrancy. Two equal amounts of complementary colors create an exciting tension. You can soften the tension by having one less dominant in scope than the other to complement their colorful arrangement.

For those looking to create a monochromatic color scheme in their garden, choose plants from a single color family in various shades.

Bright colors such as red, yellow and orange, make spaces appear smaller, while dark colors like blue and purple create a calming, spacious atmosphere. Pink plays well with almost any other color in a landscape. For those who desire the unexpected from their garden, a polychromatic mix of all colors is like the grand finale in a fireworks show.

Finally, neutrals such as green, chartreuse, silver, white, brown and black bring out of other colors by being the canvas against which they are measured. Green provides support to other colors while white brightens dark shades. Brown helps colors appear well grounded and black makes them more mysterious and sultry.

Rick Vuyst is CEO of Flowerland, host of the Flowerland Show on NewsRadio WOOD 1300 and 106.9 FM as well as Mr. Green Thumb on WZZM TV 13.

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May 2018

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Here’s a Thought…

Women’s Issues • One Woman’s Opinion

Hold my Wine While I Putt Maybe it was the nine-iron that Elin Woods lovingly planted into the side of Tiger’s Jeep as her world-famous husband tried to flee the scene that made me realize that women and men view golf quite differently.

As Tiger Woods’ fall from grace parlayed into his disappearance from televised golf tournaments, public interest in golf fell as well. Couple that with the fact that women currently make up little more than 20% of all golfers, and you can see that golf has a P.R. problem—and just maybe an opportunity.

With women’s participation in golf being so low, you can come to one of several conclusions…ranging from “Meh. If women really wanted to golf, they would. Who has time for any sport that takes hours to complete?” to “What if women took control of this sport that is in dire need of a makeover, and made it their own?”

Women, I’m talking to you—if you have EVER thought about getting involved in a sport that is healthy, fun, challenging, social, and something you can do while drinking, have I got the sport for you.

HERE ARE FOUR RANDOM THINGS THAT MIGHT MAKE YOU CONSIDER PICKING UP A SET OF CLUBS…

If there was ever a sport that gives women an advantage, it’s golf. So much so, that at times, the women’s tees can give women an extreme advantage over men.

Because of the placement of many women’s tees, men would win more golf scrambles if it occurred to them to put a woman on their team.

If you’re looking for a sport that you and your significant other can enjoy together without either one of you wanting to kill each other at the end of the round, this is your lucky day because in golf, you’re technically not playing each other—you’re trying to best your low score.

Golf can fit into your schedule AND your lifestyle. If you’re anything like me, nine holes is all you have the time and patience for. I can do eighteen, I just don’t want to. Golf is the perfect sport because you can make it a social thing with friends, a networking outing with clients or simply embrace the tranquility of what golf has to offer by going out on your own.

You can grow old doing this. There’s a reason why a lot of old people golf… because they can! Golf is more about finesse than strength, and a sport that you can take up at ANY age. There are wonderful female golf instructors in the area. Call one and give it a try!

And then there are the perks of golf—nice apparel, cool gadgets and cup holders on golf carts. Just remember… Golf bags come in a multitude of colors. Don’t limit yourself to pink just because a man in the design department at Callaway thinks women can’t possibly want a blue, black or orange bag.

Heidi McCrary is a writer and co-owner of Ad Shop, etc. – a boutique advertising agency offering fullservice and a lá carte marketing services to local businesses. Contact Heidi at heidi@adshopetc.com and on Facebook at adshopetc.

Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

May 2018

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Skin Care & Cosmetic Laser Center 7901 S. 12th St., Suite 100 Portage, MI 49024

Love Children?

Become a Foster Parent

O

n any given day, about 300 kids in Michigan are looking for a foster parent. If they’re lucky, they’ll find one like Elaine VanLeeuwen of Portage. Elaine fostered nearly 500 children during a span of 52 years. Yes, 500. Now in her 80s, she no longer takes in new foster children. But many of “her kids” stay in touch and visit, sometimes bringing their own children and grandchildren with them.

She and her late husband, Alan, worked as a team. They had four children of their own and their youngest was four when the first foster child, a newborn arrived. “I tell everyone that my own children grew up in foster care – and they really did,” she says with a smile.

Elaine has received well-deserved awards her for her unfailing support and unquestioned love for children.

Framed letters of praise and certificates of recognition from presidents and governors cover a wall in her house.

It was well-deserved praise. “When a child needed to be placed, Elaine was there,” says Krista Ploski, foster care

Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

licensing supervisor for Family & Children Services. “If another foster parent needed a break, Elaine was there.

She even became a mentor to other foster parents. We wish we had more foster parents just like her.”

Family & Children Services fields four to five requests daily from county departments of health & human services and private agencies throughout Michigan seeking to place children in foster homes. New foster parents are really needed in Calhoun, Kalamazoo and St. Joseph counties.

Krista and her teams in Battle Creek and Kalamazoo, recruit, license, and train foster parents. They then place children with those parents and work with them to ensure a safe, nurturing experience for all.

Meanwhile, other Family & Children Services staffers coach biological parents on their parenting skills and supervise meetings between biological parents and children at the agency’s Family Center in Kalamazoo, which has welcoming family-friendly spaces inside and outside, including a picnic and playground area.

What makes a good foster parent?

According to Krista, working adults and retirees make good foster parents, as do singles and married couples. “Patience, flexibility, and a heart for children are key,” she says. “You should be able to commit to challenges, have a strong desire to make a difference in children’s lives, and be dedicated to a child’s reunification with biological parents.”

Foster mother extraordinaire Elaine VanLeeuwen adds one more ingredient to her recipe for success. “I guess it was my love for all these people and the kids.”

Learn more about becoming a foster parent at www.fcsource.org or by emailing fostercareinquiry@fcsource.org.

May 2018

17

Balancing Act: How to Straighten Out Your Hormones

H

DR. CRYSTAL FRAZEE, PT, CHWC, C-IAYT

ormone imbalance can strike at any age, from puberty to post-menopause.

Imbalance is common in stressed out teens, during postpartum recovery, in over-trained athletes and women going through the menopause transition. However, there are practical and effective lifestyle shifts that can support you in restoring your hormone health.

You probably think of your hormones as essential to fertility and reproductive function as well as your sex drive, but they are in fact responsible for many biological functions and emotions, such as mood, sleep, stress, digestion and metabolism. Your hormones affect your entire physiology and are even involved in brain function, bone health and pain tolerance. To zoom in on the current state of your hormone balance, ask yourself if any of the following symptoms sound familiar.

Fatigue

Are you reaching for a second cup of coffee by 11 a.m.? Do you suffer from insomnia? You may have an imbalance of your thyroid, cortisol and melatonin hormones.

Mood Swings

Many women feel mood changes during different phases of their menstrual cycle; hormonal imbalance can increase symptoms like irritability and anger the week before your cycle starts or increase feelings of anxiety and depression.

Hormone imbalance can strike at any age, from puberty to postmenopause.

Common skin issues related to hormone imbalance are acne, skin discoloration and dryness. Most people assume the skin reacts to things like oil and moisture on the surface, when in reality skin is a reflection of the health of the gut and inner systems.

If you have any of these signs, follow these suggestions to rebalance your hormone system and feel vibrant and healthy in your own skin.

Nourish

Restoring hormone balance through nourishing foods is more about adding the right foods to your diet than it is about removing the wrong foods.

Increase vegetables to 8-10 servings per day.

Eat every 4-6 hours, including within an hour of waking up in the morning. You have to keep your blood sugar levels in check to prevent cortisol, the stress hormone, from spiking, which will leave you feeling anxious and drained.

Make sure you are getting protein, healthy fat, and fiber (mostly vegetables) in every meal and snack.

Hydrate! Most women are not drinking enough water.

Drink half of your body weight (in pounds) in ounces throughout the day.

Sleep

Sleep is essential for optimal brain function and hormone balance. If you have a hard time falling asleep or often wake up between 2 a.m. and 4 a.m., you’re likely dealing with a blood sugar and cortisol imbalance. You can resolve this issue through a nutritional approach (see above) and by improving your stress response. These simple tips will help restore your sleep and balance your hormones.

Sleep in complete darkness. Blue light screens disrupt your sleep cycles, so shut off your devices and bright lights two hours before bed. Give yourself a “device and bright light curfew” around 8 p.m.

Take a warm shower or bath with Epsom salts to help induce relaxation.

Brain Fog

Do you generally feel forgetful? Do you sometimes forget what you’re doing mid-task? Is it difficult for you to focus?

Menstrual Issues

Irregular cycles and painful periods are signs of hormone imbalance.

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Skin Problems

May 2018

Drop the temperature to around 68 degrees.

Skip the evening sweets and wine after dinner.

Get outside! Thirty to 60 minutes a day of daylight exposure, restores sleep.

Practice mindful breathing for 5 minutes at night to help calm your nervous system.

Your hormones affect your entire physiology and are even involved in brain function, bone health and pain tolerance.

Move

Movement is essential to balancing your hormone systems, and the trick is to figure out the amount of activity that is most therapeutic for you right now.

If you are struggling with low energy and poor sleep, it’s important that you take a restorative approach and be intentional with your exercise intensity and duration.

Start by going to a couple of restorative or yin yoga classes per week or by walking for 10-20 minutes per day; stick to this lower intensity for 4-6 weeks. Make sure that you don’t feel depleted after exercise or the next morning. The goal is to move toward feeling recharged and having enough energy to start the day without caffeine!

Slowly increase intensity by adding more exercise sessions per week. Eventually, you will break a sweat during workouts and can even start doing interval training. Keep checking in with yourself to ask if you’re feeling better or worse because of your exercise routine. Your body will tell you when it’s OK to progress.

Find a rhythm that is sustainable, because at this stage, consistency is important. Establish accountability by checking in with a friend, exercising with a partner or hiring a pro to guide you.

You can restore your hormones and feel renewed by following this approach! It’s less of a quick-fix and more of a new way of thinking about managing your health that leads to optimal health and happiness in your everyday life.

Dr. Crystal Frazee, PT, CHWC, C-IAYT is a dynamic practitioner with a broad skill set and a passion for helping women overcome their personal barriers to achieving optimal health. To learn more about her please visit CrystalFrazee.com.

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Bone Health: What Really Matters

BY TAMMY BECKETT

Our bones are the structural foundation of our bodies. They are living tissue that are constantly breaking down old cells and replacing them with new ones. Childhood is a time of rapid bone growth where we are depositing more net cells into our bones than we are taking out. This results in a net increase of bone strength and mass. We continue to grow bone until the age of about 30 at which point peak bone mass is obtained; of this about 85% had already been attained by the age of 18. There is minimal change in bone density or mass until menopause at which point there is accelerated bone loss.

Women will lose about 3% of their bone per year during the first years of menopause and bone loss slows down after about 10 years. Reaching a high peak bone mass is essential to minimize the impact of age related bone loss and experiencing fractures later in life. Osteoporosis is often viewed as an older women’s disease and an inevitable part of aging, however there are many things that can be done to maximize bone mass and quality. We need to start thinking about the health of our bones in childhood and adolescence.

One of the most important factors affecting our bones is our hormones. Estrogen and testosterone are protective to the bones and when hormone levels drop for any reason bone mass will be lost. Women who stop menstruation due to extremely low body weight or excessive exercise may lose significant bone mass that may not be recovered. Menopause, when hormone levels drop, is also a time of rapid bone loss.

Another essential component of bone health is nutrition. Many nutrients are essential to our bones and the most often thought of nutrient is Calcium. It is recommend that girls aged 9-18 have 1300mg of calcium daily and women aged 19-50 have 1000mg of calcium daily and over the age of 50 we need 1200mg of calcium daily. Calcium is best absorbed in amounts of no more than 500-600mg at a given time. It is best to spread calcium intake out over the course of a day.

Ideally we should get calcium from the diet and to only supplement what the diet does not give. Certain groups of people may need to have more calcium intake and it is best to ask your health care provider.

Vitamin D is necessary for the absorption of the calcium we consume. Vitamin D deficiency will lead to softer bone quality and will increase the risk for fractures. It is recommended that most adults in Michigan take about 2000 units of Vitamin D daily.

Vitamin D levels can be measured in blood tests and the exact dose should be based on individual needs.

Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

Other nutrients needed for good bone health include protein, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, and vitamins C, K and B12. Diets rich with a variety of fruits and vegetables (including leafy greens) provide our bones with all the building blocks necessary for adequate mass and strength.

Weight bearing exercises, which include any activity where the body has to work against gravity, are also essential to our bones. Exercises like walking and weight training will help to obtain peak bone mass and will help prevent bone loss. Bone will be lost during long periods of inactivity. An exercise regime should include core exercises which train the muscles in the pelvis, lower back, hip and abdomen to work together. These exercises will provide a solid base of support and allow us to control our movements and stabilize our body weight as we move in different directions. This will lead to better balance and stability in all sports and in performing activities of daily living.

Smoking has been linked to low bone mass and an increased risk for fractures. Smoking is actually an independent risk factor for osteoporosis and inhibits the healing process of fractures and may lead to more complications. Alcohol in excess also results in lower bone density, interferes with calcium absorption and increases the risk for falls. It interferes with calcium absorption and also often replaces calcium rich foods. Excessive alcohol can also decrease estrogen production and increase cortisol (which will decrease bone formation and will increase bone breakdown).

People who consume a lot of alcohol also tend to heal more slowly from fractures due to malnutrition.

Genetics play a role in determining peak bone mass and bone architecture and the rate in which bone is lost. If there is a family history of osteoporosis or

Exercises like walking & weight training will help to obtain peak bone mass and will help prevent bone loss.

Bone will be lost during long periods of inactivity.

fractures you really need to screen regularly and to take precautions to attain and maintain healthy bones.

Certain medications will also impact our bones.

Corticosteroids over a long period of time will result in the loss of bone and will make the quality of the bones weaker. Other medications that are associated with poor bone quality include seizure medications, thyroid medications, loop diuretics, antidepressants, gastric reflux medications and cancer treatments.

Bone health is impacted by many factors. Ultimately low bone mass and poor bone quality increases our risk for fractures and impairs our ability to heal from fractures. We need to optimize bone mass and strength to reduce the risk for fractures and to improve long term quality of life. Bone health has been neglected as an area for health care concern.

Comprehensive orthopaedic bone health care is important and includes osteoporosis screening, diagnosis, treatment, therapy and education.

It is vitally important to promote bone health, reduce fracture risk, accelerate healing and prevent re-fractures. Because every woman’s bone health is different, personalized treatment recommendations based on individual bone density and laboratory testing as well as comprehensive evaluations are important.

Tammy Beckett is an orthopedic nurse practitioner specializing in all areas of bone health care in Western Michigan. When she isn’t working at Orthopedic Associates of Michigan or mentoring college students she can be found in the community volunteering and mentoring children.

May 2018

19

Transform Your Bathroom

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into an At-Home Paradise

BY RENEE FRANKLIN

ashroom. Powder room. Lavatory.

Restroom; whatever you call it, the bathroom is one of the most functional rooms in your home. Whether you’re unwinding after conquering the day, or starting your morning with a long, hot shower, let your bathroom be all it can be: your at-home spa; your oasis away; the ultimate treat-yo-self haven. If your bathroom doesn’t envelope you in tranquil vibes, fret not! A dash of style and clever placement goes a long way in transforming your bathroom into an tranquil haven where you will experience renewal every time you enter.

Lighting

Play with lighting to give the room a relaxing atmosphere. Use multi-bulb lighting fixtures paired with warm LEDs. For a sunset-on-the-beach vibe, try pink bulbs in the bathroom with your regular lighting; together they can create a rosy-glow that’s the perfect aesthetic for a relaxing time. For a romantic, bohemian feel, place a tray of candles on your vanity and hand string lights on the walls or around a window.

Mirrors

To immerse yourself in the sand and sun, hang a collection of gold-framed mirrors. Adding mirrors is a simple way to bounce additional light around the room, and the gold can add a warm hue, so they’re both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Plants

Greenery helps any room to thrive. Plants such as Philodendrons and Bromeliads add an elements of airiness and life, and both can be found in superrealistic faux styles if your bathroom is not conducive to hosting the real thing.

Accessories

Adorn your bathroom with items that fit your style and personality. For your paradise getaway, a bamboo bathmat creates a beachy vibe that’s also chic and modern. Turkish towels add texture and color. Even smaller items, such as jewelry stands, towel hooks and toilet paper holders, can show off your aesthetic and make your escape truly your own.

Let your bathroom be all it can be: your at-home spa; your oasis away; the ultimate pampering haven.

Clean

Keep your bathroom stunningly spotless and smelling great. Clean frequently overlooked places like the back of the toilet, inside the shower and along the edges of fixtures. You can make your own tub and tile cleaner by combining 1 2/3 cup baking soda, 1/2 cup vegetable oil-based liquid soap, 1/2 cup of water and 2 tablespoons of vinegar in a spray bottle. Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil, and each time you wipe down your surfaces, your bathroom will be infused with the delicious scent of your choice.

Relish

Allow yourself to fully enjoy your bathroom. Think of it as your last stop before you meet the day ahead or retreat to the bedroom. Set aside an evening to indulge in a warm bath with Epsom salt, a steaming cup of tea and a captivating book. If you prefer audiobooks, listen to your favorite novel while you soak via a waterproof bluetooth speaker attached to your shower wall. Place a bright bouquet of flowers in your bathroom to greet you as you start your day. Pack your vanity full the everything that makes you feel just a little extra special: face masks, scented lotion, essential oils, bath bombs, exfoliators, etc. Set your alarm a few minutes early to ensure you have time to pamper yourself with these little luxuries in the morning. You deserve it.

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21

LOOK WHO’S TALKING

FUN FACTS ABOUT

Denise

WHERE DID YOU EARN YOUR DEGREE? Eastern Michigan University WHAT WOULD BE YOUR PERFECT DAY OFF? A day at the beach in South Haven, followed by a little shopping and then dinner at Clementine’s.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE COMFORT FOOD? Corned Beef and Cabbage.

HAT FOOD DO YOU W ABSOLUTELY HATE? Liver DO YOU HAVE ANY PETS? A sassy little cat named Cassie.

Denise King HOSPICE CARE OF SW MICHIGAN

M

any women these days are finding themselves in a club they never wished to join; the Sandwich Generation. This term was coined in the 1980’s to describe people who find themselves simultaneously caring for aging parents and raising their own children. The challenges facing those caring for two entirely different age groups are immense.

The stress involved grows almost exponentially when one of a woman’s aging parents is sick and dying.

This is where Denise King and her team at Hospice Care of SW Michigan come in. As a patient reaches the advanced stages of their illness, Hospice Care is there to offer quality care to support both patients and caregivers. Denise joined the team in December of 2017 as Director of Development and Community and it didn’t take long for her to recognize how truly special the team at Hospice Care of SW Michigan is. She is inspired and humbled by the level of compassionate care given by every employee as they work to support families facing end-of-life illnesses. The excellent care they give allows families to focus on making memories with their loved ones rather than wasting time and energy navigating the unfamiliar world of hospice.

Denise’s role with Hospice Care of SW Michigan is to oversee advertising, donor and public relations, fundraising

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May 2018

events, community outreach, education of agency services and social media platforms. Basically, it’s Denise’s responsibility to make sure people know about the services available to them as they navigate a difficult and upsetting time in their lives.

Although Denise is new to her position, she has worked almost her entire professional life to better the lives of those living in West Michigan. Prior to her tenure at Hospice Care of SW Michigan, Denise served as the first Director of Marketing and Communication for Goodwill Industries for Southwestern Michigan. When the new CEO of Goodwill took over the reins in 2000, Denise was his first hire and she worked with him for a little over 17 years.

The opportunity to use her marketing and communication expertise in service to two great non-profit agencies has been a privilege that Denise doesn’t take for granted.

Erica Shier is a married mother of four who loves reading, scrapbooking & thrift stores.

When she’s not driving her small pack of children around, she spends her time volunteering, writing & trying to keep on top of the laundry.

Denise is a woman of faith and family is everything to her.

She has been married for twenty years to Greg, the love of her life, and together they have an eight year old son, Jacob.

When they’re not cheering for Jacob and his undefeated team, the Kalamazoo Wolverines, during football season, the family loves to go on adventures together. They consider themselves amateur foodies and will travel quite a few miles in order to try a highly rated restaurant.

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Consent:

BY KERRY HART, LLMFT

A

dults may stray away from having a conversation about consent with children out of fear that discussing sex may be inappropriate for their child’s age or maturity level. But, consent is not about sex — it’s about boundaries. It’s up to us as parents to raise responsible, respectful, children who understand consent by starting a conversation with them when they are young.

Permission If your kiddo is too young to talk about the birds and

the bees, start by teaching them to ask permission before touching another child. This will help them build positive relationship skills, as they will learn not everyone wants to be hugged, kissed or touched the way they have deemed appropriate. At a young age, focusing on permission gets the point across and will translate into relationships later on.

Empathy Go over on the importance of empathy, so your little one learns to understand and feel remorseful if their

Teach Your Kids Positive Relationship Skills

actions hurt someone else. Foster awareness in them so they may recognize when others might need help; formulate a plan they can execute when they or another child doesn't feel safe, such as finding the nearest adult.

Words Carry Weight Teach your kiddo to honor words such as, “no” or

“stop” in every situation. Empower them with the knowledge that if someone else doesn’t stop when asked, they need to evaluate if they feel safe in that person's presence. This discussion demonstrates to your child that if they don't stop when a friend asks them to, that friend may not feel safe, which brings us back to empathy. Teach this lesson early and your child will not only be respectful of others, but will learn to recognize when someone is not respectful of their boundaries.

Boundaries By never forcing your child to hug or kiss anybody, you give them the power to recognize what kind of touch they are comfortable with from others.

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Additionally, this allows your little one to exercise power over their body while giving them the opportunity to say, “no,” and be respected. If a relative is a little too pushy and yearning for a hug, offer an alternative when your child is present, such as a high five or a secret handshake.

These conversations, just like the sex talk, are uncomfortable only if you allow them to be. Inviting dialogue surrounding consent to be a part of your daily communication will lessen the weight of topic. Most importantly, model appropriate behavior and know your children are always watching; they learn how to behave from watching the people who are around them the most. Even if you are enjoying an extra long snuggle, be sure to stop when they request. Be an excellent example by realizing every moment can be a teachable moment and demonstrate that “no” really does mean “no.”

Kerry Hart, LLMFT is a couple and family therapist in private practice. She is located in Southwest Michigan. kerryhartcounseling.com

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May 2018

23

Create an Outdoor Space

Beyond Your Porch

BY WHITLEY SEMROW

“Think of it as the room you never knew you had!�

S

ummer is quickly approaching, and we Michiganders are eagerly looking forward to doing anything and everything we can outside.

An excellent way to enjoy the outdoors is to make your patio or deck feel like an extension of your home. Think of it as the room you never knew you had! A deck or patio can function as a gathering space or a place for respite and lounging. Keep in mind the following three tips when you embark on shaping up your outdoor sanctuary.

Structure

Erecting an outdoor wall can make a huge impact on your patio. Think about a blissfully secluded Saturday morning with a warm cup of coffee or private gettogether with friends. Adding a pergola or a wooden wall with integrated planters can create this insular effect. Or, try an extra tall fence; even if you have a small yard, there is still plenty of space to go up!

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May 2018

As for the floor, if you have an existing patio or wooden deck, consider painting it. There are many different ways to change up the look of your deck with paint, from graphic stripes to using a template and creating a fun pattern for a vibrant look. Of course, a nice stone or brick paver brings a timeless element to a patio.

Stringing up lights or strategically placing candles and lanterns creates a warm, glowing atmosphere.

Go the extra-mile and waterproof a mirror and hang it on a wooden wall to beautifully reflect the light and greenery.

Accessories & Furniture

The benefits of natural elements in your space are innumerable: they can be soothing, functional and reflective of the environment around you. Add a freestanding fire pit to cozy up to. A water feature brings a peaceful feeling to the space. Include luscious greenery, either in a decorative pot or landscaping around your space.

Now for the furniture and finishing touches! These can have a huge impact on your space. Think about how the area will be used: Will it primarily an outdoor dining area or a lounge? Bringing in some soft touches such as pillows curtains, and cushy seating will make it feel cozy. Create a stunning vignette with an outdoor cart for a place serve food or arrangement of succulents. Additionally, lighting is key to creating a relaxing ambiance.

Natural Elements

Whitley earned her BFA in Interior Design with a minor in Furniture design from Kendall College of Art & Design. She is employed by Stonesthrow furniture where she enjoys working with clients on various aspects of the home.

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May 2018

25

TASTES FROM THE KITCHEN

Shawarma King 1441 S. Drake Rd | Kalamazoo | Mon–Th 11am – 10pm | Fri–Sat 11am – 11pm | Sun 11am – 9pm Kalamazoo’s reputation as a must-visit destination city for foodies across Michigan is growing with every addition to its impressive food landscape. Not only can you find restaurants offering food inspired by a vast array of regional American cuisines, the variety of international flavors available across the area is impressive.

For those who are looking to experience authentic and flavorful Middle Eastern Cuisine in a family environment, Shawarma King should top your list. Located at 1441 S. Drake Rd., the restaurant gets its name from its signature dish, which is characterized by a variety of meats placed on a spit and roasted slowly over long periods of time. This allows the meat to become tender and flavorful as it cooks. The meat is carved from the spit as needed and served by itself with sides, in a sandwich or on a salad.

Shawarma King’s menu is vast, with something for everyone, whether you’re dining with someone new to Middle Eastern fare or your party is full of shawarma enthusiasts. You’ll find Shish Kabobs, Biryani, Falafel, Stuffed Grape Leaves and, of course, hommous. The restaurant prides itself on being vegetarian and vegan friendly. In fact, on Wednesdays all vegetarian meals are 10% off.

Nidal Awad, the Head Chef and Owner of Shawarma King, studied at both the Notre Dame Culinary School and Jerusalem Al-Quds Open University. He is passionate about offering quality Middle Eastern food made with the freshest quality ingredients. His is a family business that he firmly believes belongs to the people of Kalamazoo. He prides himself on providing excellent customer service in a casual, family-friendly environment.

Chef Nidal is a husband and father who relishes time spent with his family. When he’s not creating delicious food for his customers, you can often find him at the gym or cooking grape leaves with lamb for the ones he loves.

People make special trips to Shawarma King just for the hommous and many will tell you that one taste of Chef Nidal’s famous hommous will ruin you for the store-bought versions. He has been kind enough to share that recipe with our readers so that you can give it a try at home.

Enjoy!

Hommous Makes 4 cups When planning your perfect day, look no further than us. Food lovers beware... you’re in for a tasty surprise.

1 cup dried chick peas

1 Tablespoon lemon juice

1 ½ teaspoon salt

¼ cup tahina

2 large cloves garlic

PROCEDURE 1. Soak 1 cup dried chick peas overnight.

Boil for 1 ¼ to 1 ½ hours.

2. Cool the boiled chick peas down and puree in food processor 3. Combine the chick peas with garlic, tahina, salt and lemon juice in food processor.

4. When the mixture is smooth, pour into a container.

5. Decorate with paprika, parsley or sumac if desired.

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May 2018

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

A Strong Leader

BY KELLY BROWN

HOW TO BE A WORKOUT ROLE MODEL FOR YOUR KIDS

G

raham Nash said it first, “Teach your children well.” I’m sure you’ve seen the billboards and ads on the side of the buses stating, “Your children learn from watching you.” What you eat, they will want to eat, too. But, it shouldn’t just be diet we focus on; kids need to learn healthy exercise habits at a young age. Research from the American Council of Exercise shows that kids who exercise with family choose to exercise more regularly without being coerced and make nutritious eating choices on their own. Kids who are active at least an hour a day remain more active throughout the rest of their lives. The benefits are cumulative, so the earlier you begin, the more powerful they become.

Involving your children will provide you with even more motivation to get off the couch, turn off the screen and get moving. Learning how to squeeze in time for a workout will follow your children through the rest of their lives. We all know that kids who exercise frequently demonstrate lower rates of obesity.

Exercise also leads to improved brain function that will help them do better in school, year after year.

WALK With kids, change workouts from “me time” to “family time.” A workout can be as simple as a walk. Whether you head into town or just cruise around the block, building a walk into your pre or post-dinner routine ensures it won’t be put off. If you don’t have time in

Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

the evening, consider parking a few blocks from school and walking your children into class in the morning.

Not only will the fresh air and exercise help them focus in the classroom, it’ll also help you jump-start your step count for the day. Walks are for toddlers, too! Alternate between stroller time and walking. Turn your daily walk into a game by pointing out colors and shapes. Or, go on a neighborhood treasure hunt to find the house with the swing set or the house with the cat in the window. If you want to find more motivation, sign up for a charity walk and give back to your city or a nonprofit you care about. Team up with your children’s friends for a lively fundraising race.

jogging in place, wall sits and lunges. Schedule a 5-minute break after 15 minutes of homework to stand up and move. Pick two exercises and alternate between 20 seconds of work and 10 seconds of rest. Then, return to homework for another 15 minutes and repeat.

DANCE If you’ve got little ones who love to boogie, don’t hide

a workout. On commercial breaks, mute the TV and get in a cardio burst: burpees, high knees, jumping jacks; anything that gets the blood pumping. Motivate your kids (and yourself) by saying, “Only one more commercial before we rest!” The same principle can be applied to their favorite movie; pause every 10-15 minutes for a quick stretch or cardio segment.

it! Take the path of least resistance, crank those jams and get down. Grab a flashlight to use as a strobe and dance while dinner is in the oven. Make a kid dance mix on your Spotify or iTunes to get them moving.

Dancing is an excellent way to burn excess energy, calories and develop motor skills.

USE YOUR BODY Incorporate basic body-weight exercises into your

daily routine. Movements appropriate for ages 6 years and older include planks, squats, sit-ups, stretching,

TAKE A COMMERCIAL BREAK TV time is another perfect opportunity to squeeze in

Kelly Brown is a writer, marketer and egg-eater. Her writing has been published across Michigan and the US. When she isn’t writing, she instructs at Beer City Barre, and attends classes at CrossFit 616.

May 2018

27

Plant-Based

Recipes

BY DANEA MATHER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AUGUST NYSON

After April showers, stroll through the fresh May air, wander down the aisles of your favorite farmers market. Nourish your body and mind with these early season root vegetables, which are sure to be seen popping up on produce stands near you!

Shoestring Parsnip Chips

With a dash of salt and a perfect crunch, these baked, crispy shoestrings are a satisfying alternative to potato chips.

2 or more large parsnips 2 tablespoons olive or avocado oil 1 teaspoons of salt (or more, to taste) Optional: fresh chopped rosemary leaves Preheat oven to 350 F. Trim parsnips and cut into 2-inch chunks, dividing the parsnip by thickness.

Either with a sharp knife or a mandolin, cut parsnips into thin julienne strips, 2-inches tall, a quarter of an inch wide and as thin as is comfortable. (The thinner the cut, the crisper the chip.) Place all julienne strips into a mixing bowl, add oil and toss to coat. Add in salt and optional rosemary and toss again.

On a large baking sheet, lay out parsnips in a single layer. Place baking sheet in oven for approximately 40 minutes, checking for color after 20 minutes and rotating pan. Check again at 30 minutes for color and doneness.

When finished, parsnips will vary between dark golden brown to light tan. Remove from oven and let cool at least 5 minutes before serving.

Tahini Ginger Sauce

This all-purpose drizzle-on-everything sauce adds a zippy, creamy compliment to salads, bowls, sandwiches and more. It is even the perfect dip for freshly roasted parsnip shoestring chips!

Makes 1/2cup of sauce 1/4 cup tahini 1/4 cup cool water 1/2 lemon, squeezed 1 tablespoon ginger, peeled and grated 1/2 tsp salt Place all ingredients in a blender or food processor and blend on high until smooth. At first, the liquids will appear to be separating. This is natural when working with tahini. Continue to blend, and all will eventually come together.

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WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

Herb Roasted Carrot Salad

Tired of egg or chicken salad? Try this creative, veg-centric version that is packed with flavor.

Use it in a sandwich, on a bed of greens, in a cored tomato or even just eat it with a spoon!

Makes approximately 4 large sandwiches 2 cups carrot, diced 1 cup celery, diced 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced 1/2 cup vegan mayo (or traditional mayo) 4 large medium sized fresh basil leaves 1/2 teaspoon herbs de Provence seasoning 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon. olive or avocado oil Preheat oven to 350 F. Mix together diced carrots, oil, herbs de Provence seasoning and salt. Spread on a baking sheet and place in oven until carrots are fork tender, around 20 minutes. Allow carrots to cool at least 15 minutes.

Add roasted carrots, diced celery, and diced onion to a food processor. Pulse until all vegetables are minced and mixed together well. Transfer to a mixing bowl. Slice basil leaves into thin strips and add to mixing bowl. Add mayo to mixing bowl and gently fold all ingredients together. Be sure to mix very well. Cover and cool in refrigerator for at least an hour before serving

Tumeric Springtime Veggie Bowl Gorgeously colorful and simply in preparation, with roasted root vegetables, dark greens and gently spiced jasmine rice.

Makes 3 entrĂŠe sized bowls

Turmeric Rice

Roasted Vegetables

1 cup jasmine rice 1 large parsnip 2 cups water 2 large carrots 1 teaspoon turmeric 1 tablespoon olive 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon or avocado oil 1/4 teaspoon salt 4-5 large leaves Swiss chard, destemmed and torn into 3-inch pieces All-Purpose Tahini Ginger sauce reheat oven to 350 F. Trim parsnip and carrots and cut into long P strips, lengthwise. For even roasting, carrots are best cut into 4 strips, and parsnips into 6 strips.

Coat vegetables in oil and lay out in a single layer on a baking sheet.

Place baking sheet in oven until vegetables are fork tender, about 2025 minutes.

While vegetables are roasting, prepare rice with water, turmeric and cinnamon in either a rice cooker or medium sized pot with a lid. When rice is nearly finished and vegetables are fork tender, bring a medium sized pot of water to a boil. Blanch Swiss chard in water for about 2 minutes and drain.

To Serve Divide turmeric rice into three large bowls. Alternately lay roasted carrots and parsnips around the edge of each bowl. Place a rounded bunch of Swiss chard leaves in the center of the roasted vegetables.

Garnish generously with All-Purpose Tahini Ginger sauce and enjoy!

Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

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269-254-2702

May 2018

29

O

5

Tips for a More Fulfilling Relationship

ne of the most common misconceptions about relationships is that they should happen effortlessly, without conflict or discourse. Sure, things may seem to fall into place and be perfect in the beginning, but the honeymoon phase can’t last forever. When things start to get difficult, and you’re unprepared for conflict, it can be shocking. We must shift our understanding of relationships from what we see in popular media to what happens in real life. Having to work at it doesn’t mean you’ve failed in your relationship; in fact, it’s just the opposite! Happy, long-lasting relationships take effort. In order to enjoy the good, you have to address concerns that arise. Much like a delicate flower, relationships take constant care to flourish and be sustainable over the years. Here are some tips to keep your relationship thriving.

Discard Expectations

Wishing your partner will do something to make you happy is setting yourself up for disappointment.

You cannot rely on him or her to be your sole source of happiness. The pressure of performance can be crippling to anyone and cause resentment to build.

Imagine if the roles were reversed: Could you be living your best life while constantly worrying you weren’t doing enough? A fulfilling relationship is when both partners’ actions are freely given. Take ownership of your happiness and let everything else your partner does be the icing on the cake.

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May 2018

BY MEGAN STUBBS

Self-Development

While relationships are a team sport, it’s important not to overlook the value of self-development.

Before you joined forces, you were on your own; you had your own set of dreams that you wanted to accomplish. Now, many of your goals include a “we” aspect, but don’t forget to cultivate things on your own. A relationship is fulfilling when there is a mix of individual and joint goals. When you overlook your own individuality, feelings of resentment can arise when working toward a joint objective or in the case that your partner is pursuing their own plans without you. Make sure you both have something to work toward individually and encourage each other to realize those ambitions.

Re-evaluation

No matter how hard you’d like to argue against it, few of us are immune to the influence of media and society on our relationships. It’s one thing to admire a couple you see in a TV show or a celebrity tabloid, but it’s another when you use it as a comparison to your relationship.

You may idolize a celebrity couple because their life looks so easy/romantic/sexy, but you only see what is shown. Instead of using media as a checklist against your own relationship, sit down with your significant other and discuss what your ideal partnership looks like. If you are on the right track, great!

If you decide changes need to be made, even better!

Keep the communication channels open and clear.

Sex Check-in

Speaking of communication, talk about your sex life.

Are you happy with it? Do you want more? Do you want to slow it down? Your partner isn’t a mind reader, and if things have been feeling off in the bedroom, ask them about it! If you are experiencing a sexual frequency mismatch, here is a quick way to get to the bottom of it: Write down how many time you’d like to have sex per week. Then write down how many times per week you think your partner would like to have it.

Have your partner do the same. Share results with each other and find a schedule that will work for both of you.

Enthusiasm

Just like a smile is contagious, the level of energy you bring to your relationship will be mirrored in your partner. If you want your connection to be more passionate, be a self-starter and put your energy into it!

Dr. Megan Stubbs is a Sexologist, the job you never saw on career day. For insightful tips or a good laugh, find her on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and SexologistMegan.com

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Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

May 2018

31

Calendar of Events

It’s easy to get listed in our Events Calendar. Our deadline is the 10th of the month prior to publication. Email us at: calendar@womenslifestylekazoo.com.

Please type Calendar in the subject line.

in the community. Each event is designed to help residents find the best Kalamazoo for them. Free. 269-599-7390. www.NewToKalamazoo.com

May 4 – 5 Just Between Friends Children’s Consignment Sale

Kalamazoo County Expo Center. Fri. 12 – 8 pm, Sat. 9 am – 8 pm, Sun. 9 am – 1 pm. Just Between Friends is a children’s & maternity consignment sale where shoppers can stock up on bargains 50%90% off of retail prices. Admission is $3 on Friday only, Free on Saturday & Sunday.

616-528-8284. melissacook@jbfsale. com www.kalamazoo.jbfsale.com

May 8 May 1, 8, 15 June 5, 12, 19, 26 Establishing a Daily Spiritual Practice

The Peoples Church, Room 9. 7 - 8:30 pm. Learn Tibetan Buddhist meditative techniques including concentration, contemplative analysis, visualization, mantras and prayers applied daily in a structured format. Free. 734-368-8701.

269-944-1575. westmi@jewelheart.org www.jewelheart.org

May 3 – 5 Battle of the Glass Blowers 2018

Glass Art Kalamazoo. Thurs. 3 – 10 pm, Fri 12 – 10 pm, Sat. (Hot Glass on Tap) 7- 10 pm. Talented glass artists from Kalamazoo and beyond will descend upon our great studio space to compete for cash prizes, bragging rights, and pure unadulterated fun!! Hot Glass on Tap is

a paid, ticketed event, all others are free.

269-552-9802. http://glassartkalamazoo. org/battle-2018/

May 4 Art Hop

Various Locations throughout Downtown Kalamazoo. 5 – 9 pm. Art Hop is a free event that features new art exhibits in a fun, casual atmosphere. Numerous galleries and businesses in the downtown area host a variety of artwork. Free. 269-3425059. www.kalamazooarts.com

May 4 Welcome to Kalamazoo

Epic Center. 5:30 – 7 pm. The evening will be perfect for families, young professionals and retirees. Those who partake will be given a deeper appreciation of the area’s past, present and future, along with a better sense of how to become involved

NEW RIB VENDORS | LIVE MUSIC | VIP AREA CRAFT BEER AND COCKTAILS

Taste of the World

Kalamazoo County Expo Center, Expo South. 6 – 8 pm. Come and enjoy international cuisine provided by twenty-three outstanding Kalamazoo restaurants... plus live music... and support Colleagues International’s signature annual event. Ticket: Adults $35 in advance, $45 at the door, children 12 and under $15. 269-569-3259. info@cikzoo.org www.cikzoo.org

May 9, 2018 “Thriver” Educational Cancer Group- Borgess Health & Fitness Sponsored

Borgess Health & Fitness Center – 3025 Gull Rd, 5:30 - 7:00 pm, Monthly – 2nd Wednesday. We are a positive and uplifting educational group. Free and all are welcome. 269-381-1986.

Mderuyter99@gmail.com

May 10 13th Annual Children’s Carnival

Kalamazoo County Expo Center. 4 – 7 pm. The 13th Annual National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day Carnival helps to reduce the stigma of receiving mental health services in a fun way. It provides education regarding children’s mental health issues, the services available for youth and families in our community, and how best to access those services. Free.

269-553-7122. mhoutrow@kazoocmh.org

May 11 - 12 Annual Village Wide Garage Sale

AUGUST 2-4!

ARCADIA CREEK FESTIVAL PLACE

SAVE THE DATE • KALAMAZOORIBFEST.COM Tickets go on sale May 1st at kalamazooribfest.com

BENEFIT FOR:

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May 2018

Village of Schoolcraft. 9 am – 4 pm.

Annual Village of Schoolcraft Garage Sale! May 11, 9-4 and May 12, 9-3! Usually over 50 homes participate. All within one square mile. Maps to garage sales will be available at the Municipal Complex at 442 N. Grand St., Schoolcraft on May 10 and 11. Free. 269-679-4304. http:// villageofschoolcraft.com

May 12 CND Urban Hike Challenge

Hikers park and meet up at the city parking lot at 100 W VanBuren St, Battle Creek, MI. The Chief Noonday Chapter of the North Country Trail Association is sponsoring your choice of two free, guided hikes. Optional lunch post-hike at Rivers Edge Ice Cream or other area restaurants. 269-808-7334. www. northcountrytrail.org/cnd jane_a_norton@ yahoo.com.

May 12 Mother’s Day Market & Craft Show

Kalamazoo County Expo Center, Expo South. 9 am – 3 pm. New event just in time for Mother’s Day featuring handmade crafts, local artists, vintage, antiques, home decor, boutique clothing, and more! Get your mom that special gift, shop with your mom or buy something for yourself. Free. 269-903-5820 lorie. money123@gmail.com www.facebook. com/events/1875224802790119/

May 12 Touch-a-Truck

Kalamazoo County Fairgrounds. 10 am – 2 pm. Do you have a kiddo that loves trucks and other vehicles? Or has your child ever wanted to get up close to some of their favorite trucks that they see in the community? If the answer is “YES”, then you won’t want to miss Touch-ATruck! $10 for a family pass or $4 per adult & $2 per child. 269-815-0034. www.JLKalamazoo.org/Touch-A-Truck

May 12 Integrative Breathwork Workshop

Unwindings, 5466 Holiday Terrace, Kalamazoo 5/12: 2 pm - 5 pm. A musical meditation for insight, emotional healing, creativity & renewal. $40. Pre-registration is required. 269-388-2988. www.

AdamczAssociates.com.

May 12 Big Boss Band

Paw Paw Playhouse. 7 – 9:30 pm. The Big Boss Band will take over the stage with an explosion of sound, worthy of their name, with their jazzy and rock blues edged chops. The Big Boss Band will be performing all original roots rock and blues music. This band blends rock, blues and jazz overtones to create a memorable event $12. 269-913-4153. www.facebook. com/PawPawPlayhouse

May 16 Family Craft: Paint Kindness Rocks

Comstock Township Library. 5:30 pm Contribute to the “Kindness Rocks Project!” which involves painting and hiding rocks for others to find. Deanna Mayo will instruct you on how to paint these rocks.

All supplies will be provided and all ages welcome (children 10 and under must have an adult present with them). Required registration at the adult reference desk. 269-345-0136.

May 17 High School Area Show Awards Ceremony

Kalamazoo Institute of Arts. 5:30 – 8 pm.

This annual juried exhibition celebrates the work of high school artists residing in nine Southwest Michigan counties -- and this evening will see scholarships and awards totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars awarded to the most talented students. $5 admission, $3 children up to age 12. 269-349-7775. www.kiarts.org

May 18 Coffeehouse Concert: Megan Dooley

Vicksburg Community Center. Doors open at 6:30 pm. 7 – 8:30 am. Megan’s rich, gritty, and powerful vocals weave between punchy rhythm guitar, eloquent bangolele, and a phenomenal whistle to create a musical experience all her own. Megan Dooley is a Michigan performer you won’t want to miss! Snacks and beverages available. $7 each and available online, at the Gallery, or at (269) 501-1347.

May 18, 19 Plant Sale

Portage Garden Club, 4444 Meadowlark Dr. Kalamazoo. Fri. 7 am. – 5 pm., Sat. 8 am.-noon. Portage Garden Club annual plant sale. 327-4224. See us on Facebook.

May 18 – 19 Kalamazoo Master Gardener Annual Plant Sale

Kalamazoo County Expo Center.

9 am – 6 pm. This is our annual fundraiser. Free event. Linda Whitlock is our contact. 269-383-8815

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

May 18 & May 19 Integrative Breathwork Workshops

June 1 Art Hop

May 19 67th Kalamazoo Antique Toy Show

June 1 Movies in the Park: Justice League

Lord of Life Church, 9420 Portage Rd., Portage 5/18: 7 pm - 9 pm, 5/19: 10 am - 5 pm. A musical meditation for insight, emotional healing, creativity & renewal. $30/Friday or $75/Saturday. Pre-registration is needed. 269-388-2988. www.

AdamczAssociates.com.

Kalamazoo County Expo Center. 9 am – 2 pm. Sale of antique, vintage and collectible toys such as pedal cars, toy tractors, wind-up & battery-operated toys, Disney, sci-fi toys, Tonka trucks, Japanese pressed tin robots & cars, Hot Wheels, action figures & dolls, movie & TV memorabilia, & much more. Regular Saturday: $7.

“Early Bird” Admission Friday from 4-8pm: $30. 262-366-1314. Unievents1@aol.com www.uniqueeventsshows.com/Kalamazoo_Circus_Maximus_Toy_Show.html

May 19 Family Fishing Fair

Ramona Park. 10 am – 1 pm. The first 250 kids to the event will receive a free fishing rod courtesy of Suez Water Environmental Services! There will also be lessons in activities such as knot tying, casting, and rod rigging, and kids will have the opportunity to try fishing on the shoreline. There will also be prize giveaways and so much more! Free. 269329-4522. www.portagemi.gov/

May 20 Kids Roar

Sherman Lake YMCA Outdoor Center. 12 – 2 pm. Join us for Kids ROAR – a Rogue Obstacle Adventure Race – for kids ages 5-14. Be prepared to get dirty as you climb over obstacles, through mud and run through the trails! After the race, enjoy post-race refreshments, activities and camp tours! 269-731-3000. carrieh@ ymcasl.org www.shermanlakeymca.org/ new-events-1/2018/5/20/kids-roar-rogueobstacle-adventure-race

May 26 The Jungle Book

Miller Auditorium. 3 – 5 pm. Join your KSO as they perform live the music of Disney’s classic The Jungle Book. This animated, iconic film features the charming and delightful score by the one and only George Bruns and composed by one of the most famous songwriting teams in history, Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman. $10 reserved seating. 269349-7759. www.kalamazoosymphony. com/calendar/disney-concert-jungle-book10-tickets

May 26 All Ears Theatre: Emperor’s New Groove

First Baptist Church. 6 – 7 pm. The annual royal gala is coming, and the outrageous King Peter Popinjay wants this year’s Pomp and Circumstances Procession to be remembered for years to come. If only he had something to wear! Free. 269342-5059. www.kalamazooarts.org

May 27 Celebration Singers

Klines resort 22460 Klines resort rd. 5 miles south of Vicksburg. 6:30 p.m. With Celebration Singers it will be a patriotic concert Concert outdoors weather permitting bring lawn chairs and finger foods to share afterwards. A love offering will be taken. 269-649-3414

Various Locations throughout Downtown Kalamazoo. 5 – 9 pm. Art Hop is a free event that features new art exhibits in a fun, casual atmosphere. Numerous galleries and businesses in the downtown area host a variety of artwork. Free. 269-3425059. www.kalamazooarts.com Celery Flats Historical Area. 9 pm. Looking for something to do on a Friday night?

Look no further than our brand new movie series! All shows will start around 9:00 p.m. or shortly after. Seating will be on the lawn in front of the Grain Elevator, so bring a blanket or chair! Free. 269-3294522. http://portagemi.gov

June 1 – 2 2018 KIA Arts Fair

Bronson Park. Fri. 3 – 8 pm, Beer Garden outside KIA 4 – 10 pm. Sat. Artists in the Park 9 am – 5 pm, children’s activities 12 – 4 pm. Join us to kick off summer in Kalamazoo’s Bronson Park. You’ll find jewelry, photography, sculpture, painting, ceramics, glass, fiber, leather, and wood, along with music, food trucks, and family activities to make a great, art-filled weekend. Free. 269-349-7775. www.kiarts.org

June 1 – 9 Bach Festival Week 2018

Bach Festival Week 2018, sponsored by the Kalamazoo Bach Festival Society, is a series of concerts and events celebrating the life and musical legacy of J. S. Bach.

This year’s expanded celebration takes place from June 1 to 9. Visit our website for full Bach Festival Week details. http:// www.kalamazoobachfestival.org/

June 3 Vintage in the Zoo Market

Kalamazoo Farmers Market. 11 am – 4 pm. Explore true vintage shopping in a wonderful outdoor setting. Celebrate the Kalamazoo community and its amazing vintage style at the Vintage in the Zoo market at the Kalamazoo Bank Street Farmers Market. Shop true vintage & antique clothing, furniture, housewares, & more from the best vintage vendors in the region. Free. 773-319-4866. www. vintageinthezoo.com/

June 3 Meet the Lake Michigan Mermaid

Bookbug. 2 pm. What better way to begin Michigan summer than by celebrating a beautiful tale of the friendship between a young girl and the mermaid of Lake Michigan. As it explores family relationships and generational bonds, this book is an unforgettable experience that aims to connect readers of all ages. Free.

269-385-2847. www.bookbugkalamazoo. d7.indiebound.com/event/meet-lake-michigan-mermaid

June 6 What’s All the Buzz About?

Downtown Kalamazoo. The Kalamazoo Garden Council presents a Standard Flower. The Flower Show celebrates the beauty and power of pollinators. Registration information is available in the official Flower Show Schedule. Please plan to come as an exhibitor or simply stop by to admire all the beautiful flowers. You will be informed and inspired! kalamazoogardencouncil.org

Greater Kalamazoo MAGAZINE | EXPO

T I C K E TS O N S A L E N O W !

2017 - 2018 Chris Ludwa, Music Director

Spring Opener Feast or Famine June 2, 8:00 pm Chenery Auditorium Belshazzar’s Feast, Walton Requiem for Those Who Died

Bach Rocks The Dave Sharp Worlds Quartet June 6, 7:30 pm Dalton Theater, K-College

Bach Festival Chorus, Chris Ludwa, conductor Kalamazoo Philharmonia, Andrew Koehler, conductor

Breaking Barriers with Bach Baroque Meets Celtic June 8, 7:30 pm Jazz it up with Bach Recital Hall, Festival Finale CHRIS LUDAW, MUSIC DIRECTOR K-College The Merling Trio & Guests June 9, 7:30 pm 2017-2018 CONCERT SEASON Dalton Theater, K-College 2018 Bach Festival Week is Fri June 1 - Sat June 9 !

Over 12 events including Beer Choir, Art Hop, Feast or Famine, The City Sings Bach, Bach and Jammies, Bach-Around-the Block Organ Crawl, Bach’s Brunch Concert, Bach Rocks, Breaking Barries with Bach, and Jazz it Up With Bach.

For tickets and full details on these events and more:

( 2 6 9 ) 3 3 7 - 7 4 0 7 - o r - K a l a m a z o o B a c h Fe s t i v a l . o r g

May 2018

33

READER’S

Suggestions brought to you by Gloria Tiller, owner of Kazoo Books. Kazoo Books features used and new titles.

The staff is experienced & can help you with suggestions. Come visit them at 2413 Parkview. There is plenty of parking in the back.

BY BETH GREEN

To Die but Once

by Jacqueline Winspear In the latest title from the Maisie Dobbs mystery series our hero has come a long way from her early days as a private detective just after WWI. She’s now investigating the disappearance of a young man working on a hush-hush government contract. With Britain confronting the beginning of WWII, Maisie has to take special precautions while working on this case.

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May 2018

The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters

by Priya Parker Regardless of place and culture, people everywhere love to get together. It could be a family birthday party or drinks with friends or even an exquisite masquerade ball. Then there are the many work-related meetings that bring us together with fellows and strangers.

Here is a book to help you put together a plan for any occasion, even funerals.

This offering has tips on how to make each occasion flow better, while helping people to feel more comfortable so they can have fun and connect. Because isn’t that the real reason we like to gather?

Enlightenment Now: The Case for Reason, Science, Humanism and Progress

by Steven Pinker Steven Pinker, author of “The Stuff of Thought”, offers up a new book about our future that tells a positive story.

This Harvard Professor of Psychology presents to us a vision of people living longer, healthier, freer and happier lives.

With graphs, studies and examples to support the fact that we are making progress to become better at preserving the human condition, “Enlightenment Now” serves as an encouraging progress report on life on planet Earth.

Southern From Scratch: Pantry Essentials and DownHome Recipes

by Ashley English Ashley English presents healthy and practical recipes prepared with whole, natural foods. Inspired by the cuisine of Southern Appalachians, each section shows readers how to combine fresh, seasonal ingredients with a set pantry of essentials to create over 150 different delicacies. Recipes for different pickles and relishes set the stage for creating delicious meals throughout the book.

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com

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