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STAYING HEALTHY AND BRIGHT HOLIDAY COOKBOOK CARE FOR THE NATURAL NURTURER HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
Fresh * Fun * Fabulous moxiemediagroup.com
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December 2020
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OB-GYN, P.C. is partnering with St. Luke’s Diaper Bank for the
5th Annual Holiday
Diaper Drive!
The National Diaper Bank Network tells us that: * 1 in 3 U.S. families report suffering from diaper need. * Government assistance programs do NOT cover diapers. * Diaper need impacts physical, mental and economic well-being of children and parents. * Diapers can cost $70-$80 per month. * Babies need up to 12 diapers a day. * Without diapers, babies cannot participate in early childhood education programs. * Diaper banks help meet diaper need by providing diapers to nearly one million infants and toddlers each year. Throughout the month of December, OB-GYN, P.C. wants to collect as many diapers AND wipes as possible for mothers and families in our community. Diapers are not a gift; they are a necessity. Every baby deserves to have their basic needs met! Please help us meet this need so we, as a community, can raise happy, healthy children. DIAPERS AND/OR WIPES CAN BE DROPPED OFF AT: OB-GYN, P.C., 2854 South 11th Street, Kalamazoo, MI 49009 or ship online orders directly to our office. If you need more information, please call 269-345-6197 ext 270, email KLedlow@obgynpc.com or visit www.stlukesdiaperbank.org.
Thank you for helping us make a difference right here in Kalamazoo this Holiday Season.
PROVIDERS: Carter O. Lomax, Jr., MD, FACOG Joseph L. Riethman, MD, FACOG Marcia L. Johnson, MD, FACOG Wendy L. Bauer, MD, FACOG Carly H. Davis, MD, FACOG Jennifer K. O’Neill, DO Brittany J. Post, WHNP-BC
OB-GYN, P.C. 269.345.6197 2854 S 11th St Kalamazoo, MI www.obgynpc.com
MacKenzie L. Arnold, WHNP-BC Patricia R. Zull, CNM, FNP-BC
December 2020
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FROM THE PUBLISHER
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Hello, December! Although summer is my favorite season, the weeks between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day are easily my favorite time of year. The sights, sounds and smells of the holiday season bring so much joy and it is easy to agree that we could all use a little joy to cap off 2020. This edition of Moxie Magazine, we introduce you to the tasty new trend – hot cocoa bombs, give you some great holiday gift ideas, and share what visits with Santa will look like this year. One of the highlights of this edition is a Holiday Cookbook provided by our writer and The Kalamazoo Foodie, Rachel Kirtley. It includes recipes for the amazing, thirty-year-old Mushroom Soup from Bravo!, Rykse’s Pumpkin Cookies and Ginger Bread from The Garden Griddle.
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As you deck the halls, trim the tree, cook the food, open the gifts and light the menorah or kinara, we hope that you remember the true meaning of this season is love. Whether you are celebrating the love shown to man by the birth of Christ, the miracle of Hanukkah or the seven principles of Kwanzaa we hope that you do so surrounded by the love of family, friends and community. The staff of Moxie Magazine and I hope that this season brings you many reasons to smile and that your holidays are surrounded by love, joy and hope. Warm Wishes,
moxiemediagroup.com
contents
HOME 14 CREATING FOR THE HOLIDAYS
LIFE
6 | Christmas Present 12 | Hobbies to Outwit Boredom 16 | To Hope 20 | Keeping Things Professional, While Enjoying the Holidays During Pandemic Times 32 | She’s Got Moxie! 20 Things You Didn’t Know About Ean Hamilton 38 | Care For The Natural Nurturer
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LOCAL 8 | Santa Clause is Coming to The Crossroads 14 | Creating Home for the Holidays at North Woods Village Memory Care
THE CROSSROADS HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
OCAL CELEBRITY 22 LHOLIDAY COOKBOOK
40 | The Crossroads Mall Gift Guide
HEALTH & FITNESS 10 | Staying Healthy & Bright 30 | Telehealth: Changing the Face of Healthcare 36 | Stay Lean this Winter with These Lazy “Exercises”
FOOD & DRINK 18 | Hot Cocoa Bombs, The Holiday Sweet Treat 22 | Local Celebrity Holiday Cookbook with recipes from Rykse, Bravo! Restaurant & Café, The Garden Griddle and more! 28 | Restaurant Review: Traveler’s Pub & Café
THE PEOPLE WHO MAKE IT HAPPEN PUBLISHER: Heather Dombos hdombos@moxiemediagroup.net LAYOUT & DESIGN: Alicia Pauwels apauwels@moxiemediagroup.net EDITOR: Lalita Chemello lchemello@moxiemediagroup.net
SALES & MARKETING: Holly Korhorn hkorhorn@moxiemediagroup.net CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Cricket Alexander Emily Betros Kim Carson Ashley Carter Youngblood Kelly Duggan Rachel Kirtley
THIS PUBLICATION PROUDLY SUPPORTS
Heidi McCrary Jenny Opdycke Dr. Marti Peters-Sparling Elizabeth Precopio Hannah Reuter WEBSITE: moxiemediagroup.com FOR SALES INFO: 269-350-5227
BY EMAIL: info@moxiemediagroup.net editor@moxiemediagroup.net sales@moxiemediagroup.net
MASTERMIND
BY MAIL: Moxie Media Group, LLC P. O. Box 2284 Portage, MI 49081-2284
December 2020
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Christmas Present I recently asked this question on-air and on Facebook:
When you think back to your favorite Christmas memory when you were a kid, is it a present? An experience? Something else? Are there memories that immediately bubble up in your consciousness or does it take some time to try and remember something special about Christmas?
Even as an adult my Christmas memories are vivid, and circle all around my mom (my dad too). I remember making popcorn balls with Mom in our little kitchen in Detroit, cutting colorful construction paper into strips and making a pretty paper garland for the tree and sitting at the kitchen table making cutout Christmas cookies then sprinkling them with green and red colored sugar. And finally, once the tree was decorated my dad lifted me high so that I could place the pretty angel at the very top of the Christmas tree. Those memories still make me smile and are even more cherished now that dad has gone on to heaven. Here are a few of those favorite Christmas Memories (and presents) that were shared with me. Kim Carson
Kim is an Author/Radio/TV/Internet personality living in Southwest Michigan. Listen to her 5-10am on FM106.5, watch her on WGVU TV and learn more at kimcarson.online. Kim loves cats, calls her mom her best friend, enjoys hiking, farmers markets, photography and interviewing people because we all have a story to tell.
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Rosie del Valle
"One year my parents decided to stay in Nebraska year-round for work. I was rather disappointed we weren’t back home in Texas with all my cousins and aunts and uncles, but I remember being so happy that we were at least, together as a family. I loved having lots of hot chocolate, blankets all over, and it was my very first white Christmas. My grandmother made tamales for the entire neighborhood and we took tamales to friends as we visited. What I loved the most in every Christmas memory was my grandmother’s warmth and how she made every place feel like home."
KariAnne Van Weelden
"My dad lost his job when I was 10. We had very little money. Christmas became a time of just being together. The best Christmas was when the ONLY thing I got was a comforter ... and I cherished it."
Michelle Bates-Phipps
"It is the traditions that we grew into as a family. Fruit in our stockings so we had a nutritious breakfast before we dug into the candy and chocolate that were also in there. Being able to open one present on Christmas Eve and spending the majority of Christmas Day with my Granny and all the family. I long for those days!"
Kimberly Johnson
"My mom raised me as a single parent since my father left us before I was two years old. My grandparents were helpful, but my mom always wanted me to have a special Christmas each year. This particular doll was out of her price range, but she didn’t let that stop her from making sure I had the best. She sacrificed often so that I never missed out. I still have all of the dolls, all in great condition as I wanted my mom to know that I appreciated all of her love and sacrifice for me. This is a photo of the first 'dolly' she ever gave me."
Taryn Brenneman
"Experience. My three sisters would gather in my room in the middle of the night and we would go twoby-two downstairs to check out the presents. We would tape X’s on the stairs the night before where the wood made a creaking sound so my parents wouldn’t wake up. My dad would always change all the X’s around."
Shannon Burgess
"Experience. My dad worked at the Muskegon paper mill. The company rented the L.C. Walker arena and hired talent for a Christmas show with of course Santa appearing at the end. Every child received a gift. One year I picked a doll (Mrs. Beasley). Another year I selected a saucer (the good metal ones). The best part was our family all going together ... no fighting ... no bickering ... five girls you know!"
Tom Weschler
"It’s all of it! Christmas morning 1963, after getting in late from midnight Mass I rolled out early and under the tree was a box that read: 'Open me first.' It was a Kodak Super 27 camera, that went on to be my go-to camera for my series of photographs of my TV, with The Beatles on ‘The Ed Sullivan Show.’ It made my day and my life."
*Note: Tom went on to become a famous rockand-roll photographer who documented musical history via photographs for over 40 years.
Dawn Vaculik
"Definitely an experience. I barely remember the gifts. But I remember the feeling of Christmas, waiting for my grandparents to arrive, the food, the endless hours spent opening gifts (mom over-did it) a puzzle being worked on, a marathon Monopoly game being left as-is. The year we dressed up to go out to dinner on Christmas Eve. I loved Christmas. Still do."
As memories fade over the years, it appears we can still recall some of those extra special experiences that made a lasting imprint on us. So, as you go about trying to make Christmas perfect in every way, do not lose sight of the fact that being present in the moment while making memories with those you love will actually be the most memorable part of Christmas.
Wishing you and yours the very best this holiday season.
Kim Carson December 2020
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Santa Claus is Coming to This year, with COVID-19 cases ramping up as we are all staying in more with the cooling weather, a favorite pastime and part of the Christmas holiday has had to adjust as well. This year, The Crossroads will have both live visits with Santa, and virtual visits for those not comfortable or able to visit Santa in person.
Live Visit
The Crossroads has worked to take measures in ensuring a safe, but fun and festive visit, as well as contactless experience with Santa, November 27 through December 24th. Reservations are required. Schedule your visit with Santa at www.TheCrossroadsMall.com.
Virtual Visit
Partnering with JingleRing, this year The Crossroads is helping families who are not comfortable or able to visit jolly St. Nick in person. Schedule a digital, contactless visiting experience with Santa for the whole family. Not only can your child(ren) enjoy Santa’s live magical
Santa’s Hours at The Crossroads
appearance, you can completely personalize the visit. Visits can be joined by up to four guests, from multiple devices. You can even invite the grandparents to join!
For your digital visit with Santa, make your reservations at www.ExperienceJingleRing.com.
MONDAY – SATURDAY 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
SUNDAY 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
For both live & virtual visits, reservations are required.
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December 2020
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YING A T S
Healthy -ANDQ
uestions abound as we head into flu season, now straddled with the added worry of COVID-19. How do you know if it is just a cold or something more serious? Can you get both the flu and COVID at the same time? Is a COVID vaccine coming? Will it be safe? Should I get a flu vaccine? Should I get it now? Or later? These are all valid concerns, and I’ve been getting many of these questions in my
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office lately. It doesn’t look like we will be rid of COVID-19 anytime soon, and it gets more confusing when cold and flu symptoms start appearing. Dr. Marti Peters-Sparling Marti is a board certified Family Medicine physician and co-owner of an integrative Direct Primary Care wellness center, SWMI Health Matters. She has experience in all aspects of Family Medicine including preventative care, chronic disease management, meditation, and mindfulness. Dr. Peters-Sparling seeks to meet her patients wherever they are, without judgement or bias.
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WHAT ARE THE MAJOR DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THE COLD, FLU & COVID? Here is a chart from Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, Michigan, that may clarify things:
While allergies, cold, flu, and COVID-19 will all cause a cough, the greatest differences are that a fever and chills rarely go along with a common cold; nasal symptoms and sore throat are more likely to be a cold or flu; while the loss of taste and/or smell are common with COVID. Another important difference is that COVID-19 appears to spread much more easily, and can cause more severe symptoms than the flu. Of course, a call to your primary care provider is always recommended if you are unsure, or if symptoms start to become more severe, especially if shortness of breath develops. So, what about a vaccine? There have been some hopes of a vaccine becoming available soon. Even if one is approved quickly by the FDA, the ability for any company to create massive amounts of it will be slow. And it will likely go
to front-line workers and the highrisk population first. Will it be safe though, even when it is available to the general public? Recently (January 2020) a study was published that reported concerns about an association between flu vaccination and increased risk of contracting a coronavirus. It turns out this was not the COVID-19 coronavirus, but other strains of coronavirus from 2017-2018. The report was then reviewed and found to have flawed methods. Canadian researchers examined their own data in response, and found no increased risk of COVID-19 after flu vaccination. Unfortunately, it is possible to get both the flu and COVID-19 at the same time. This double whammy would be devastating for anyone who already has any underlying medical conditions. I highly recommend getting a flu vaccine this year, if you haven’t already. The sooner the better!
WHAT ELSE CAN WE DO TO TAKE CARE OF OURSELVES? Here are the top 5 recommendations from Harvard Medical School.
DON’T SKIP DOCTOR VISITS
CLEAN YOUR HANDS
We’ve heard this over and over, but such a simple practice can make a big difference.
Most providers are set up to do video visits now. Deaths from heart attacks and even asthma attacks are on the rise as people try to avoid going to the hospital. Don’t wait!
BE SKEPTICAL
EAT HEALTHY, EXERCISE, SLEEP
Including lots of fruits and vegetables and whole grains – make some delicious hot soups!
There are a lot of products out there. Washing with simply soap and water, or 1/3 cup of bleach in a gallon of water will take care of most viruses.
GET VACCINATED Especially the flu vaccine & pneumonia vaccines when appropriate.
December 2020
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Hobbies to Outwit Boredom
I
t is the end of 2020, and as we find ourselves more cooped up at home due to the colder weather and the pandemic, we’re bound to run out of things to do. To keep yourself occupied and entertained through the upcoming winter months, here are some hobbies to try to outwit the inevitable boredom to come.
Crafts
Stop at your nearest fabric store to pick up some needles this winter, because learning a crafting skill will not only challenge you mentally, but will also take care of your holiday gifts next year (unless you are a fast learner, you might be able to this year)! Whether attempting crocheting, knitting, sewing, or quilting – pick the method that fits you best. Why buy hats, scarves, or even face coverings, when you can learn to make them in your own style for less? Grab your supplies, pop on a YouTube tutorial, and a whole world of unique crafts awaits.
Art
Painting with acrylics, watercolor, or oils; drawing with pencils, markers, pens, or pastels; sculpting with clay, wax, wood, or plastic – art can be made with anything you can think of to create. With endless possibilities, art has always been a fun way to keep the boredom away.
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Music
Learning an instrument can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be with the resources now available at our fingertips. If you are not quite dedicated enough to purchase an instrument, a lot of libraries and schools offer instrumental rentals for those deciding whether or not to take the plunge. Still iffy? Just ask a friend who plays to teach or lend you their instrument, most guitarists and musicians have a few handy – trust me! If you are not the instrumental type, try your hand at singing by downloading any number of tuning apps.
Games
Games, games, games! There are video games, board games, card, dice, or trivia games, and so many more. Learn a new game or get better with the ones you already know, play by yourself or have the family join in.
Recreational
If you don’t mind a little cold, pick up an outdoor hobby. With a multitude of parks and venues in our area, try cross-country skiing, sledding, snowboarding, or ice skating. If you prefer staying indoors during the winter months, sign up for online fitness classes, or find barre, yoga and pilates tutorials on sites like YouTube to explore. Hannah Reuter Hannah graduated from WMU in 2015 with a degree in Economics and currently resides in Portage. In her free time she enjoys strumming the guitar and painting. She is the author of two YA books under the pseudonym, H.B. Catherine. You can find information on her books and writing at hbcatherinewriting.com.
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December 2020
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f o e r t m h o e H H g o n l i i t d a ays e r C NORTH WOODS VILLAGE MEMORY CARE
A
s the halls of North Woods Village Memory Care are decked in trees, winter and holiday décor to surround residents in this spirited season, Audrey “Audie” Henriquez, Executive Director, emphasizes the importance of creating a moment within the walls of their facility here in Kalamazoo.
WHY A MOMENT? North Woods is unique from other care facilities as it is an assisted living home specializing in caring for those suffering from dementia in any of its many forms. And while all are at varying stages of the multiple forms of their onset dementia, one thing remains common: a continued deterioration of their memories as well as the ability to retain a memory. When one cannot make a memory, a moment then becomes so much more important.
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With that in mind, Audie and her staff are working hard to ensure this 2020 Holiday Season feels like the holidays for their residents, even amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Months ago, the staff had begun to prepare for what November and December would look like for residents if the pandemic numbers increased or in general, failed to let up or flatten the curve. With infection rates as high as they have been this month (over 7,000 cases a day in Michigan when this was written), the center is at what they call a “Level E” status, meaning absolutely no outside visitors. With COVID and the inability to bring residents outdoors, a plan needed to be formed on how to create the same treasured moments and memories residents would have received around the Thanksgiving and December holidays. What it came down to: staff and residents would have to do the performing.
From the resident who enjoys playing piano to staff members who have been rumored of playing instruments like guitar, Audie and her staff have worked diligently to in a way, to really encourage their staff into participating in performances to help continue the idea of having holiday moments here for the residents. After successful persuading, even the resistant ones were happy to participate in the festivities. With entertainment near figured out and orchestrated, it comes down to the other details to make the magic moments of the holidays for residents. Staff at North Woods reach out to residents’ families to ask if there are specific holiday traditions or occurrences tied to their specific loved one. Audie gives an example of perhaps there is a resident who absolutely loves making fruit cake, and every time they made it, it was absolutely terrible. Regardless, she still made that fruitcake. And maybe, in having fruit cake provided
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When one cannot make a memory, a moment becomes so much more important.” to residents one of the days this December season, that can trigger a memory, or create a moment to make it truly feel like the holiday for that particular resident. North Woods also has a neutral chapel that can provide holiday services for residents who are used to doing just that for the holidays. With beautiful stained-glass windows and décor, a lot can be done to turn it into the beautiful holiday backdrop for those who hold religious ties of varying degrees and denominations. Staff have already begun to tune residents in to channels like Hallmark to air holiday movies. Dinner menus for the variety of holidays observed in the community, while keeping in mind senior nutrition and restrictions are being put together and prepared. And as mentioned, decorations around the entire center. One unique thing about the 61-bed community is the shape of the facility. Resident rooms and recreational rooms (both spacious and aplenty), line hallways connected in a square shape, allowing residents, especially those who are restless and wanderers, to walk around the building’s hallways safely. And those hallways this season, will be decorated to give that warm and cozy feeling the rest of us experience in stores and around the streets during this time of year. The goal is to make things feel as normal as possible for the residents, which with a high-risk group in a deadly pandemic is a difficult feat for staff to tackle. But they take it in stride.
To date, none of the staff or residents have tested positive for COVID since the pandemic arrived here this past spring. This is largely due to a dedicated staff taking every sniffle, cough and ailment seriously and now, frequent testing, both normal testing as well as rapid testing. If the status for Michigan facilities drops in time for the holiday, because of rapid-testing, they would be able to test entertainers before they enter the premises. Although, the rate things are going, that idea may not have a chance to be utilized. Some residents will be returning home to spend the holidays with their families. North Woods staff walk families through the care entailed for their loved one during the time they will be staying. Upon return, residents will be tested, and isolated from the rest of the community population for 14 days, while frequently tested to ensure the community’s safety. That same procedure is applied to new residents coming in as well. The attention to detail Audie and her staff places into enriching their residents’ life is a true testament to the care North Woods provides, where not only health is concerned, but ensuring even they too, can create something special for this rather unpredictable holiday season to feel “like it always has,” even, if just for a moment. Lalita Chemello Lalita is our Editor, Writer and occasional photog. Her 13 years of writing has landed features with Panorama, published poetry and even a short film. She spends any extra time she can quenching her wanderlustian needs by finding new places to adventure with her other half, writing, or playing with their motorized toys.
T
he holidays are already a difficult time in general. If you are also struggling with deciding if it is time to put your loved one with dementia in care, that stress is magnified. Here are five key indicators Audie shares with families suggesting the next step toward required care beyond what you may be able to provide.
SIGNS YOUR LOVED ONE MAY REQUIRE MORE CARE • Are they falling at all? What is the plan if they should fall and cannot get to the phone? How long would they be there before someone finds them?
• Are they known for elopement or being an escape artist? Do they wander and find themselves in odd places? • Do they have adequate nutrition to maintain good health? Is their diet colorful and varied? • Are they able to take their medications safely? If someone sets up their medications can you trust they take them when they need to, on the correct day?
• Are they clean enough to maintain good health? Do they don the same clothing? Soiled clothing? Odd smells? Hygiene is linked to good health for seniors.
December 2020
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To Hope BY LALITA CHEMELLO
H·O·P·E I would like for us to sit with that word for a moment.
Christmas, the holiday season and all it encompasses, is a season of hope. There’s a reason there are so many decorations with the words “BELIEVE” and “HOPE” spanned across them. Originated on the Christian side of things, it had first spoken to the hope of Jesus and his birth. And although beliefs may be different, the hopeful spirit of the season continues, despite what you or I may or may not believe. We’re a hopeful culture. Oddly optimistic in some of the darkest of times. But I am sure with 2020, some of that hope has faded.
BUT ALAS! 2020 IS OVER.
(Yes, you can breathe a sigh of relief.) The year we continued to make jokes and memes about, relegating any mishap or drawback to a “Well, that’s just 2020,” is truly, finally, over. We are a little beaten. I honestly was unsure what condition myself or ourselves as a country, or world would be at the end of this. Many of us lost our jobs. Some lost friends and family to COVID and other reasons. We mourned and adjusted alone and/or isolated. Yet, in some ways, it is a bit remarkable how
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things turned out. Where we are now. And in a lot of ways, the darkness continues and we still have a lot to fight through.
hopefully slow down the deaths. I am not sure what we can expect, but it will all be to prevent the loss of loved ones.
At the time I’m writing this (midNovember), Michigan is yielding 7,000+ new COVID-19 cases a day. In one day. As a whole, our nation holds about 20% of the world’s COVID cases and deaths, putting us at number one for both in the world.
2021 will most likely be off to a dark beginning, but there is light.
Because of that, we have been inside for months. At least the warmer months provided some natural (and safe) escape. I am sure by the time you read this, we are on another lockdown of some sort. No holiday parties. You most likely are not planning on seeing your family in person. I realize I am painting a grim picture here, but hear me out. As we go to print, Pfizer and Moderna released early positive trial results with what apperars to be effective COVID-19 vaccines. Many of us are thrilled! THERE IS HOPE. Granted, quantities are extremely limited, and most of us as day-to-day civilians will not get our hands on it until late spring, at the very, very earliest. But, a vaccine is on it’s way, with other companies in the world working on some as well. To add, things are changing in Washington too, with a new president to take the helm next month, with plans to implement measures to help control this virus and
I will be the first to admit I am more of a realist, and I can find all the reasons to not be hopeful. However, I earnestly believe we should be hopeful. And perhaps that is the spirit of the season speaking more than anything. Things will not be fixed or cured overnight, but we get a little closer with each passing day. The holiday will certainly feel a little empty without the people we love the most. Yet, we can remain hopeful things can change enough that we are able to do a little of what we missed out on this year. And we did in fact make it through 2020, which felt impossible.
So, here’s to hope in 2021. May your holidays be as cheerful and delightful as can be. Lalita Chemello Lalita is our Editor, Writer and occasional photog. Her 13 years of writing has landed features with Panorama, published poetry and even a short film. She spends any extra time she can quenching her wanderlustian needs by finding new places to adventure with her other half, writing, or playing with their motorized toys.
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December 2020
17
Hot Cocoa Bombs THE HOLIDAY SWEET TREAT
T
he holidays are here and everyone wants to get their hands on the latest foodie trend – Hot Cocoa Bombs! Who isn’t fascinated and delighted by watching the chocolate shell melt into a delicious cup
of warmth this season? While there are many places here in Kalamazoo that offer hot cocoa bombs, we also have some amazing home bakers as well. I have picked out some of my favorites to share with you!
THE GARDEN GRIDDLE
CRYSTAL EDGE BAKE SHOPPE
217 E Michigan Ave, Paw Paw
www.fb.com/crystaledgebakeshoppe
The Garden Griddle was among the very first to jump on board with the cocoa bombs, and have perfected them in record time. The Garden Griddle uses Ghirardelli Chocolate for the shells and their hot cocoa mix and marshmallows, both homemade. You can dine in and enjoy a hot cocoa bomb or grab some to enjoy later on with the family. They also have some fun gift sets for the holiday season featuring Elf on the Shelf with Snowman and Snowball theme, Frozen theme, Poop Emoji theme and more! As far as flavors go: Milk, Dark, and White Chocolate will always be available with plans to incorporate Eggnog and Peppermint bombs for Christmas! Rachel Kirtley Rachel has worked in all levels of the food industry for over a decade. She is currently a Social Media Influencer, Content Creator and Restaurant Reviewer. You can visit her at thekalamazoofoodie.com.
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The Garden Griddle also offers a unique smaller coffee bomb using hot coffee instead of milk! The flavors they offer for coffee bombs vary from Caramel Macchiato, Mocha Hazelnut, French Vanilla and Chai, with a Mocha bomb in the works. You can also keep an eye out for collaborations with Warner Vineyards and St. Julian Winery for a unique twist using St Julian’s Sherry.
Another favorite certified home baker of mine, the Shoppe’s flavor list is quite impressive and the hot cocoa bombs are amazing – along with the coolest names ever. Bomb offerings with her homemade hot cocoa mix include White Chocolate, Dark Chocolate, Salted Caramel, Strawberry, French Vanilla Cappuccino, Chai, Pumpkin Chai, Hazelnut, Mexican Hot Chocolate, and Espresso flavors, to name a few. Some of my favorites are Peanut Butter Cup with chocolate peanut butter shell, homemade peanut butter hot cocoa mix and chopped peanut butter cups, Not-Ella with hazelnut shell and hot cocoa mix and topped with a hazelnut praline drizzle, and TikTok Anonymous with strawberry matcha, matcha white hot cocoa mix and strawberry drizzle. She also makes half and half flavor with half vanilla and half strawberry! To order or find a full list of her names and flavors, follow the Shoppe on Facebook.
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CHERRI’S CHOCOL’ART
INDULGENCE
101 S Kalamazoo Mall, Kalamazoo
www.fb.com/indulgencevicksburg
I ordered several flavors from Indulgence for Halloween and the cocoa bombs were adorable with ghost-shaped marshmallows inside. She is super creative and can accommodate most any fun decorative toppings. She offers quite a large variety of flavors including Classic Cocoa, Amaretto, Salted
Visit the Kalamazoo Mall downtown to find Cherri’s Chocol’art, known for their amazing chocolates, to understand it was a natural fit to make hot cocoa bombs. Cherri’s also makes their own drinking chocolate and actually makes it from scratch! Not only is that impressive, but they are actually pretty well known for their hot cocoa! They started out using store-bought marshmallows for their hot cocoa
bombs, but quickly moved to making their own. Cherri’s offers a traditional Milk Chocolate flavor, but seasonal flavors will include Peppermint, Mexican Hot Chocolate, Salted Caramel, and Spiced Chai. It is the perfect spot to grab a hot cocoa bomb and stroll down the Kalamazoo Mall. If you happen to swing by and get lucky, you may find some of their hot cocoa bombs are all decked out – most recently with blue glitter!
Caramel, Mint, French Vanilla, Vanilla Caramel Latte, Butterscotch, Hazelnut and Irish Cream. Seasonal flavors going into the holidays will include English Toffee, Pumpkin Spice and Eggnog. Although there is no official storefront, as a certified home baker, you can find her products on Facebook.
SIMPLY SENSATIONAL BERRIES 80 W Michigan Ave Suite B, Battle Creek
SCHULTZ’S TREAT STREET 3023 Oakland Dr, Kalamazoo
Owner Erin Schultz has taken the former Treat Street through some amazing renovations to open Schultz’s Treat Street! Erin is wellknown for her amazing homemade caramels, candied apples, and caramel sauce, but she has also ventured into making some very pretty and quite delicious hot cocoa bombs. She makes the traditional Milk and White
Chocolate bombs using Ghirardelli Chocolate, White Chocolate Chai bombs, Cappuccino bombs, and seasonal flavors including Mexican Hot Chocolate and Peppermint. Schultz’s Treat Street also makes adorable peppermint spoons for stirring into your hot cocoa. Be on the lookout for some super cute gift sets for the holidays!
Located in Battle Creek, Simply Sensational Berries has been a long time favorite of mine for unique and special desserts and treats. They offer everything from chocolatecovered bacon, cupcakes, chocolate-covered cheesecake bites, parfaits, and some of the best chocolate-covered strawberries I have ever tried. I was so excited to see they included making hot cocoa bombs! Also using Ghirardelli Chocolate for the shells, there are a variety of fun flavors
including Unicorn, Cookies ‘n’ Crème, Peppermint, Caramel Heath, and of course Plain Chocolate. Keep checking back for more holiday flavors! If you have larger orders, you can preorder your hot cocoa bombs from the shop. You can place orders by call or text 269-7199820, message the Facebook page, or stop by the store! You can also find her hot cocoa bombs at Plumeria Botanical Boutique in Battle Creek at 1364 W Michigan Ave.
There truly is a hot cocoa bomb out there for everyone. If you have difficulty picking a flavor, hot cocoa bombs may not be for you! All jokes aside, each and every one of these bakers is incredibly talented and I hope you can get out and support our local shops during the holidays. Spread the holiday cheer this year with the gift of a hot cocoa bomb.
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Keeping Things Professional
While Enjoying the Holidays During Pandemic Times
Maybe it is for a glimpse of what could be normalcy, but in the turbulent and uncertain times of the COVID pandemic, many remain ready to usher in the holiday season. Although the festivities may look and feel a bit different this year, calendars are beginning to fill with festive plans. These events, done creatively to meet social distancing requirements, can still bring co-workers from all levels of the office together, and potentially include significant others, business-related vendors and clients. As the fun, food and holiday festivities commence, consider these tips when planning and attending your business social events of the season.
THOUGHTS AND SUGGESTIONS SPECIFIC TO PANDEMIC TIMES:
irst, know that the basics of social business etiquette remain. Respond in a timely manner to invitations and don’t miss responding to a requested RSVP. Your host is planning food, venue space and seating. Arrive on time and dress venue appropriate. Remember that gift giving is an easy way to say “you/ your business is important to me.” These gifts may run from standard holiday gifts that you would send to customers to more individualized gifts. With gift giving, know your office policies and use as a guideline.
Abide by house rules – whether physically in a boss/co-worker’s home or at a place of business, follow and respect the ‘house rules.’ E.g. masks, handshakes, etc.
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Respect personal decisions – for any events kept in person, respect and honor the decision of those that may choose not to attend and look to other ways to share the joy of the season.
Virtual festivities – if your company event has gone virtual, enjoy, participate and engage others in the creative virtual experience. If these types of events include guests, limit awkward moments by remembering to introduce your significant other to the host and other guests while in attendance. No festive gathering – some may choose to take this season off from traditional holiday celebration. If this is unsettling to you, find a personal way to celebrate the season by sending cards, scheduling time virtually/
in person with those that have become professional friends or consider establishing a new tradition. Note of thanks – no matter the type of gathering or event, a thank you note is an important final step. Send a handwritten thank you note within the first 48 hours, but also know that a tardy thank you note is better than no thank you note at all.
Do your homework, know your audience and venue, & let it guide you to a respectful conclusion.
‘Tis the season … to be merry, carefully. Kelly Duggan Kelly is an Image Consultant specializing in executive and personal image development, etiquette & communication skills. She is a certified member of the Association of Image Consultants International. Contact Kelly at: www.kellyduggan.com.
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IT’S A SELLER’S WORLD.
THINKING ABOUT SELLING? NOW MAY BE THE PERFECT TIME. IN TODAY'S HIGHLY COMPETITIVE MARKET, YOU’LL NEED STRONG, PROFESSIONAL GUIDANCE TO LEAD THE WAY.
From coaching you through my Home Readiness Program to ensure the highest market returns, to being diligent in my every move to get your offer accepted, no one works harder to help you achieve all your real estate goals. I LOOK FORWARD TO GUIDING YOU HOME. Ethel Wilkey-Downs, REALTOR® Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices - Michigan Real Estate
269.267.0515 ethelwilkey@bhhsmi.com fb.com/ethelwilkeyrealtor ethelwilkey.bhhsmichiganrealestate.com
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Holiday Cookbook
‘Tis the season of giving
And The Kalamazoo Foodie, Rachel Kirtley (who is also one of our writers!), composed a selection of recipes from local-area celebrities & restaurants for you to share with yours this holiday season. Enjoy!
COMPILED BY RACHEL KIRTLEY
PROVIDED BY RACHEL KIRTLEY, THE KALAMAZOO FOODIE
Hot Cocoa Toppers
1 c up heavy whipping cream 3 tablespoons powdered sugar 1 teaspooon vanilla
Ensure whipping cream is cold, straight from the refrigerator. In a chilled metal mixing bowl, add heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla into the bowl and beat for about 6 minutes on
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medium speed until stiff peaks form. Do not overwhip (this will make butter), but it needs to be stiff enough to use in a piping bag. Use a 1M tip to pipe the whipped cream onto a baking sheet lined with wax paper. Chill in the freezer for a few hours and top your hot chocolate, coffee, or favorite hot toddy! Perfect for the holidays!
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PROVIDED BY RACHEL KIRTLEY, THE KALAMAZOO FOODIE
Candy Cane Cookies
1 cup butter, softened 1 cup shortening 2 cups confectioner’s sugar 2 eggs 3 teaspoons almond extract 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 5 cups flour 2 tsp salt red food coloring
In a large bowl, mix together butter, shortening, sugar, eggs, vanilla, and almond extract. In a separate bowl, stir flour and salt together. Once combined, stir flour mixture into the butter mixture, one cup at a time. Divide the dough in half. Mix red food coloring into one half of the dough until you get the desired color.
Take a small ball of dough from each of the red and regular dough, roll into ropes, and twist together to shape a candy cane. Repeat until all of the dough is gone. Place on an ungreased baking sheet and bake at 375 F for about 9-10 minutes.
PROVIDED BY RYKSE & CO
Pumpkin Cookies
COOKIES
1 1 1 2 2 2 4 2 2
p ound butter cup sugar cup brown sugar cups pumpkin eggs teaspoons vanilla cups all-purpose flour teaspoons baking soda teaspoons baking powder teaspoons cinnamon teaspoon cloves teaspoon all spice teaspoon nutmeg teaspoon ginger
2 ¹⁄8 ¹⁄8 ¼ ¼ In a bowl, cream the butter, sugar and brown sugar. Add the pumpkin, eggs and vanilla. Scrape the bowl. Add dry ingredients and mix until
combined. Scoop onto parchmentlined sheet pans. Do NOT flatten. Bake for 14-16 minutes at 350 F. Cool and top with warm penuche frosting. PENUCHE FROSTING
¼ pound butter 1 ¹⁄³ cups brown sugar ²⁄³ cup milk 4 ¾ cups powdered sugar, sifted In a saucepan, melt the butter. Add brown sugar and milk, and cook until boiling.
Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar until frosting is thick and glossy.
Enjoy! December 2020
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PROVIDED BY ELIZABETH PRECOPIO
Crab Delights
5 ounces sharp pasteurized cheese spread (I use one jar of Kraft Old English cheese) 7 ounces crabmeat (I use imitation, but canned is fine too!) ½ cup butter 1 ½ teaspoons mayonnaise ½ teaspoon garlic salt 8 English muffins split
In medium bowl, combine ingredients — cheese through to garlic salt. Place English muffin halves on baking sheet. Spread about 3 tablespoons cheese crab mixture on each half, dividing evenly as possible. Cut into quarter triangles. At this point you may freeze the canapes. Once frozen, you can remove them from the tray and store in a zip top bag or freezer-safe container. To prepare, heat broiler on LOW. Place frozen canapes on baking sheet. Place under broiler for 5-7 minutes, checking after 5 minutes to make sure they do not burn. Heat until warmed through and cheese mixture is bubbly. If you would like them to be a little golden on top, switch broiler to HIGH and broil an additional 1-2 minutes. Serve immediately.
PROVIDED BY BRAVO! RESTAURANT & CAFE
Mushroom Soup
1 ounce olive oil 1 stalk celery, diced ½ small carrot , diced 1 pound mushrooms, sliced 2 teaspoon garlic, minced 4 ounces white wine 1 ½ cups vegetable stock 1 pint heavy whipping cream 4 ounces tomato juice 3 tablespoons cornstarch (dissolved in 1/4 cup water) 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese salt & pepper to taste
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(30-YEAR-OLD RECIPE)
In a large pot over high heat add oil, carrots and celery. Cook until soft (approximately 5 minutes). Next, add mushrooms and continue to cook, stirring often, until soft (approximately 10 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for 3 minutes. Add wine and simmer for 10 minutes. Add stock, cream, tomato juice and simmer for 10 minutes. Finally, stir in cornstarch (dissolved in water) to thicken. Simmer 5 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
Remove from heat and stir in cheese, salt and pepper. Makes 2 quarts.
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PROVIDED BY THE GARDEN GRIDDLE
PROVIDED BY THE GARDEN GRIDDLE
Gingerbread
Royal Icing
1 cup (8 oz) unsalted butter at room temperature 1 cup brown sugar ½ cup (4 oz) light molasses Ÿ cup (2 oz) water 2 tablespoons cinnamon 2 tablespoons ground ginger 1 tablespoon ground cloves 2 teaspoons baking soda 4 cups (20 oz) allpurpose flour
brown sugar. Beat on high for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy. Add molasses and water, and beat until combined.
Before starting the recipe, make templates for your desired house with paper or cardboard. Heat oven to 375 F.
Bake for 10-12 minutes. Once it comes out of the oven place your templates onto baked pieces to trim off any excess. Let cool and then assemble!
In the bowl of an electric mixer, add butter and
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and baking soda. Add to wet mixture and mix until flour is incorporated.
8 large egg whites 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons lemon juice 12 cups (3 pounds) powdered sugar food coloring (optional) Beat all ingredients together on high until light and fluffy and doubled in size, about 3 minutes. Add desired food coloring.
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface (parchment paper helps) and cut your shapes from your templates made earlier.
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PROVIDED BY HEATHER DOMBOS
Potato Candy
¹⁄³ cup peeled, cooked, and mashed russet potato, cold (about 1 large potato) 1 tablespoon milk 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ¹⁄8 teaspoon table salt 6 – 7 cups powdered sugar ¹⁄³ cup creamy peanut butter Beat mashed potato and next 3 ingredients at medium speed with a heavy-duty electric mixer 2 minutes. Beat in 6 cups powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time. Add up to 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 Tbsp. at a time, to form dough.
PROVIDED BY JIM MUMFORD
Red Pesto
Gather dough into a ball; dust with powdered sugar. Roll to 1/8 inch thick on parchment paper, and cut into a 12x10-inch rectangle. Generously sprinkle powdered sugar over dough, and place a piece of parchment paper over rectangle. Invert rectangle; discard parchment paper on top. Spread peanut butter over dough. Starting on a long side, tightly roll up candy, jelly-roll fashion, using parchment paper as a guide. Wrap in parchment paper, and freeze 1 hour. Cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices, and serve. Refrigerate sliced candy in an airtight container up to 1 week.
This recipe originated in the South during the Great Depression and has been one of our Christmastime family favorites for almost a century.
The word pesto is old world Italian (Genoese, for those fact-checking at home) meaning “to crush.” The Latin root shows up in English, in our favorite tool the mortar and pestle. The pesto we all think of, pesto alla Genovese, is a sauce originating in Genoa, containing basil, pine nuts, cheese, etc. But there’s a range of “crushed” sauces, like this red pesto, Pesto alla Siciliana. Don’t let the simplicity fool you, this pesto is the best thing that ever happened to grilled bread. ¹⁄³ cup Pecorino Romano cheese ¼ cup ricotta cheese ¼ cup toasted almonds 2 cloves garlic 10 leaves basil ¹⁄³ cup sun dried tomatoes ¹⁄³ cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Black pepper
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In a food processor, pulse garlic until chopped. Add in Romano cheese, almonds, basil, and tomatoes, and pulse a few times to mix. While running, stream in olive oil. Season with a heavy grind of pepper. Remove pesto from bowl, and fold into ricotta cheese to lighten. Serve on charred bread, white fish, chicken, or anything you want to taste amazing.
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PROVIDED BY ST. JULIAN WINERY
Mulled Head Games Wine 2 bottles St. Julian Head Games – A Spiced Red Wine 2 cans Forbidden Fruit Cherry Cider 2 packets of mulling spices
2 cinnamon sticks, optional
Mix all ingredients into a crockpot and set to low for 4-6 hours. Serve warm with an apple slice and cinnamon stick for extra goodness.
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|
RESTAURANT REVIEW |
CRISPY POTATO CAKES
NEW YORK BURGER
STEPS AWAY FROM THE KALAMAZOO AIRPORT 5225 Portage Rd, Portage, MI OPEN Tuesday–Saturday 7:30 AM -9:00 PM CLASSIC REUBEN
I
t was a Saturday afternoon, and my husband and I were hungry, but didn’t feel like cooking, so we decided to head out and have fun trying something new. We landed not far from home at TRAVELER’S CAFÉ & PUB in Portage. The first thing I noticed about Traveler’s was the cleanliness. It not only looked sparkly clean, but smelled clean as well! I watched as servers would come in and out of the kitchen using hand sanitizer each time, which is obviously important in these times. Our masked server brought us menus and we explored the wide variety of options they had. It appeared they offered breakfast, lunch and dinner, along with what they call a “Destination Menu.” Their current destination menu featured a variety of German cuisines! After drink orders, I took notice they had a full bar, yet I did not see a drink menu. We decided to start with an order of CRISPY POTATO CAKES. Our server encouraged us to get them loaded, or topped with bacon and cheese, served with a side of ranch. These were amazing. They are basically small, flat tater tots, but are flavorful and surprisingly not greasy like one would expect. Although
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BAVARIAN APPLE TART
we enjoyed them loaded, I think they would have been great plain as well! For my meal I went with a CLASSIC REUBEN with shaved corned beef, Swiss, sauerkraut, tangy sauce, on grilled marble rye with fries for my side. And it was a delicious sandwich! I was impressed how neat and clean the Reuben was, as they are usually sloppy and messy. I loved the amount of ingredients that they put on the marble rye as well. I hate getting a sandwich that is so large that I can’t even take a bite out of. And the fries were awesome, with a perfect amount of seasoning on them that made them near addictive. My husband ordered and loved the NEW YORK BURGER. It had their Signature Michigan Craft Beef topped with provolone cheese and sauteed mushrooms. Served with Thousand Island sauce, lettuce, tomato, onion & pickle. It was near their version of a Big Mac, just with much better-quality ingredients. Again, we were impressed with the neatness and presentation of his burger. He also had the delicious fries as his side. Lastly, for reviewing purposes, we decided we MUST try a dessert. Our first choice
was the Black Forest Cake, but our server returned to apologize and inform us that they were out. So, we went with our second choice, the BAVARIAN APPLE TART. Let me tell you … this was simply perfect. It was made with local apples and cream cheese custard, served warm with housemade caramel sauce. I loved that the crust was thin, and the apples were soft enough that there wasn’t a crunch, but not so cooked down that they were soggy or gooey. What WAS gooey was the delicious caramel sauce drizzled atop. Everything was perfectly proportioned to make it absolutely perfect. It is now my favorite dessert. All in all, Traveler’s Café and Pub was impressive. It is a very casual atmosphere (think diner), but with exceptional food. It was impressively clean, and the service was great. Traveler’s does have a private room too that can be reserved for private parties. It would make a great celebration spot! Elizabeth Precopio Elizabeth is a hairstylist by day and 24/7 food enthusiast. She visits restaurants in the Kalamazoo area and blogs about her experience at feedmekzoo.com
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Telehealth Changing the Face of Healthcare and Why You Should Try It
{ } “Telehealth� is defined as a remote visit that includes real-time interaction with a live professional either via video visit or phone call.
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Since COVID-19, virtual visits with healthcare providers have become a necessity. When people need help, but are not able to visit in person, telehealth is a creative solution. However, telehealth does not just have to be a response to something like a global pandemic. It can be an effective, empowering, and life-changing way to get the support that you need. Here’s why you should give it a try.
Convenient
This is an obvious one. But what if you are only able to get the support that you need on your hour lunch break? What if you unexpectedly have to tend to a family member across-state? Telehealth allows flexibility for you to meet where and when you need to so that your care can be a part of your life and not an exception to it.
Insurance Coverage
Since COVID-19, insurance companies are responding to the public health crisis by covering virtual healthcare services. There are even some insurance companies that will cover telehealth visits in full, whereas they still require a deductible and copay to be paid for in-person services.
Encourages Self-Care
Even when you have limited privacy (e.g. in a busy home, at work), telehealth services can help you practice self-care by allowing for you to do things like take a walk-in nature or sit privately in your car at your favorite park in order to actively take some time for yourself. For others with limited mobility or restrictive home obligations, telehealth may also be the only way to actively engage in the self-care that is needed.
Deeper Connections
We tend to feel more comfortable in our own space. So, for those who can complete telehealth visits in their home, connections have the potential to be greater and the healing (especially emotionally) has the ability to be deeper. And, who does not want to do therapy in pajamas anyway!?
No Geographical Limitations
If there is a provider on the other side of the state who specializes in just what you feel that you need for your own healing, geography no longer has to be a limitation. So, even if Google brings you to the website of a clinician who specializes in something you cannot find locally, the support is still available to you! No gas money needed.
Supported by Research
It is strange to think about making a healing connection with someone through a screen. And, when seeking telehealth services, we should ensure that we are seeing a provider who is
still committed to maintaining professionalism and our privacy, even from a distance. However, the central observation within the field is that, while we still have much to learn about how to do it well and sustainably, virtual visits are just as effective as in-person visits.
The Reality
Telehealth visits are not perfect. They may not even be ideal. However, inperson visits have their drawbacks, too. And, if receiving services via telehealth is what allows you to actually receive services, then telehealth care is doing its job! Living in an increasingly technological society means that digital is here to say. So, why not try it? We do everything else on our devices anyway.
Ashley Carter Youngblood LMSW, LMFT, CMHIMP Ashley is the owner and psychotherapist at her growing practice located in Kalamazoo, Inner Peace Counseling, PLC. She and her colleagues offer telehealth services to those in Kalamazoo & other parts of Michigan. More info at www.kalamazoo-counseling.com.
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{ S H E ’ S GOT
}
20 THINGS
YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT
Ean Hamilton MEET THE ATTORNEY, PARTNER WHO GRACED OUR OCTOBER MOXIE COVER!
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I love Starbucks coffee — may be obsessed. Tall, skinny Caramel Macchiatos are my favorite.
I ran track in high school and won some medals! I may still hold a few records in the high school Hall of Fame, but possibly not because it was so long ago. I still love to run today.
3 I have three sisters. We are all two years apart and have matching tattoos of the first letter of our first name on our wrist.
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4 5
6 7
I love watching scary movies and drama TV shows. For some reason I don’t watch comedies, even though I do love to laugh. I love to travel. My favorite destinations are beaches, but my most awestruck moment was seeing the Eiffel Tower for the first time.
I played basketball in elementary school through high school and loved every minute! My jersey number was #24 — because I loved Kobe Bryant and that was his jersey number.
I love Beyonce. I am member of the “Beyhive.”
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I hate winter. So much. Snow has to go!
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Philip and I got married in Puerto Rico.
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I love purses and shoes, and feel like I never have enough.
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The only bones I have ever broken are my ring and middle finger on my left hand when my sister slammed the van sliding door on them when we were kids. I still have the scars.
I have a very silly side that only my friends and family truly get to see. My sisters say I could be on Saturday Night Live, but I am way too shy and would never try out!
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My name is confusing to people because they think it should be spelled “Ian” and that I should be a guy and not a girl.
My first job was at a bakery at age 14.
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I love to cook and started cooking with my grandma when I was 2 years old.
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I played the trumpet in school and was in the marching band.
I love to read! This may be one of my favorite guilty pleasures.
I have two boys and hearing the things that come out of their mouths keeps me laughing every day!
I am horrible at parking — both regular and parallel. I also have major road rage.
I love to sing ballads. No, I don’t have a good voice, but that doesn’t stop me.
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Holiday Gift Guide
Support local businesses this holiday season with these creative holiday gift ideas.
UNIQ JEWELRY GALLERY 3940 West Centre Avenue | Portage, MI (269) 459-1669 | www.uniqjewelry.com
VANDENBERG FURNITURE
12000 N US Highway 131 Schoolcraft, MI | (269) 679-4055 www.vandenbergfurniture.com
So much more than your typical jewelry store, UniQ Jewelry features one-of-a-kind pieces, custom and designer jewelry, unique engagement rings/wedding sets, and distinctive gifts - all from FUN to FINE...for all occasions! When you give the gift of a UniQ piece or gift card, the bag says it all! Brighten your home for the holidays with beautiful lamps, clocks, wall art, and other home accessories specially priced for the season.
SKIN CARE CENTER GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE! PARKWAY PLASTIC SURGERY 575 W. Crosstown Parkway | Kalamazoo www.parkwayps.com | 269.343.5750
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ASEA – JACQUE JENNINGS-CARTER (269) 779-2900 | www.advancinglives.myasealive.com Your skin is one of the first things a person notices about you, so taking care of it is important. This holiday give the gift of beautiful, healthy skin with ASEA and Renu Advanced products.
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BABY LOCK JOY SEWING MACHINE
FAMILY SEWING
4950 Wilson Avenue SW | Grandville, MI (616) 538-8885 | www.familysewing.com
The Baby Lock Joy sewing machine is the perfect choice for beginning sewers looking to add to their crafting opportunities or make small sewing projects around the house. You’ve just discovered the genuine joy of sewing! FREE lessons with any machine purchase!
THE AROMA LABS
326 W Kalamazoo Ave #309 | Kalamazoo, MI (269) 532-3339 | www. thearomalabs.com
The Aroma Labs offers a fun, unique, and interactive experience creating a personal fragrance. Give a one-of-akind experience with an e-gift certificate to The Aroma Labs.
GIVE THE GIFT OF ART!
LAYLA’S COOL POPS
1336 Portage St | Kalamazoo, MI (269) 767-8499 | laylascoolpops.com
Make the holidays even sweeter with Layla’s Cool Pops. Cupcakes, cookie pops, brownies, rice krispie treats, cake pops, and pretzel sticks are just some of the many delictable desserts you can pick up at Layla’s Cool Pops. We love custom orders! Contact us today and we can help select the right treats for your holiday gathering or gift basket.
COLORS & COCKTAILS THE MOBILE ART PARTY! 240 S Kalamazoo Mall | Kalamazoo
Gift Cards Available. Take advantage of Holiday Special: BUY 3 ITEMS, GET THE 4TH ITEM FREE!
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Stay LEAN this Winter WITH THESE LAZY “EXERCISES” Standing or sitting, these at-home lazy exercises thwart any excuse to not “work out.” Try them on your way to work or while watching tv at home!
Sit on a chair and stick your legs straight out, leaving them up for one minute.
Stick your arms straight out and hold them there for one minute (standing or sitting).
Tighten your stomach muscles for as long as you can and repeat throughout the day.
Stand up and bend those oblique muscles from side to side, keeping your back straight, try 25 times on each side.
Move that face around by maneuvering your mouth in circles.
Sit down flat on the floor with your legs out and reach for them.
Clench your butt while sitting and hold it for 10 seconds, repeating as many times as you can.
Do some wall sits, just act like you are sitting in a chair against the wall.
Get on those toes and do some calf raises.
With your butt on the ground, put your feet together for butterfly stretches.
Hannah Reuter Hannah graduated from WMU in 2015 with a degree in Economics and currently resides in Portage. In her free time she enjoys strumming the guitar and painting. She is the author of two YA books under the pseudonym, H.B. Catherine. You can find information on her books and writing at hbcatherinewriting.com.
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CARE FOR THE
Natural Nurturer BY EMILY BETROS
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f you are a natural nurturer, this time of year can be equally fulfilling and draining. On one hand, this is your time to SHINE! It is the season of giving after all. You likely give your time, energy, thoughts, love, and money even more than usual. Does this make you a fantastic person? Absolutely! You are likely many a person’s best friend, the mom that doesn’t forget “that something special,” and can always be counted on. And my guess is you haven’t found a whole lot of time for you, and if it hasn’t already, it is starting to drain your tank (i.e. getting sick, poor sleep, increased irritability). The tough part about being a natural nurturer is that it is a role that is often assumed of us and therefore can get out of control quickly. Example: You enjoy cooking, now you are responsible for making dinner every night for your family. Generally speaking, you really do enjoy making a meal for everyone. However, when we feel like we have to or no one else will, it does not feel quite as enjoyable anymore. When I say “time for you,” what’s your reaction? A chuckle? Scoff? Confusion? It is a little of all of those for most of us. When we talk about time for ourselves or selfcare, there’s a vision that pops up: warm bubble bath, glass of wine and candles. I’m not knocking that, as it sounds heavenly! However, for the natural nurturers out there, we need to go a little deeper and more practical than that. It is about setting boundaries, getting other people on board to support you, going back to the basics, and letting go.
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things are? A quick way to find out is to ask the people around you. Ask 3-4 people you are close with and trust, “How can you tell when I’m burned out?” or “What do I do when I am being pushed past my limits?” It might be difficult to hear these answers from other people. However, it is even more challenging to identify these things about ourselves.
SETTING BOUNDARIES To set boundaries, we have to know what our traps are. If someone tells us we are really good at something, does that become a trap for having to do it? If someone is going to fail, forget, or make a mistake, does stepping in become our trap? Does thinking, “I could do this better or faster,” than someone else become our trap to taking on additional tasks? Have some inner dialogue with yourself about where you unnecessarily insert yourself and end up with an overflowing plate. This is where you start to say no and set boundaries. When things we naturally enjoy doing and get joy from turn into work or have-tos, that is a sign to set a boundary. Rule of thumb: If it sounds like a “should,” do not do it.
SUPPORT SYSTEM No one can go it alone. As humans we were not meant to. We are designed to oscillate between connection and autonomy. When we are natural nurturers we know that our default mode is to give: it makes us feel better, it makes others feel better, and it appears initially to be a winwin. Giving is our coping mechanism. It can distract us, give us a quick endorphin boost, and help us avoid what we are really feeling or need to be doing. We need to enlist our support system to help us identify when we’ve gone too far; when we are using it as a maladaptive coping mechanism or just plain exceeding our personal giving limits. Wondering what those
LETTING GO
Perfectionism. If you are someone who likes to give, give, give, chances are you also like things to be just so, you like to be in control, and strive for perfection. Perfection is the death of good enough and complete. How many times have you given up because you didn’t think you could BACK TO THE BASICS FOOD, WATER, SLEEP, complete something Bubble baths, dessert, SUNSHINE, CONNECTION. “perfectly?” Good vacations, peace and enough is pretty darn The basic foundation of being quiet. Those all sound like good! Complete is a human able to operate at AMAZING self-care ideas. done, finished, off their full potential. AND they aren’t super your plate! Perfection practical and accessible robs us of joy and to us when we need them the most. We purpose. Perfection hates the saying, “It’s need to go back to basics when we are about the journey, not the destination.” talking about taking care of ourselves, and Research tells us we find joy and purpose in ultimately the people around us. Food, water, the process and in the connection to other sleep, sunshine, connection. Let’s just start people, not the final product. Going back with those. The basic foundation of being a to the example of enjoying cooking at the human able to operate at their full potential. beginning. There’s a good chance the reason Making these five things non-negotiable you enjoy this is because you want to bring is not selfish. If you identify as being a your family together and nourish them, not nurturer, then don’t you want to be at your present them with a magazine cover spread. best for others so you can give, give, give? We put perfection on ourselves most of the How can you do that when you haven’t time. Good and complete are usually just eaten all day or slept all night? Is it possible fine with family, friends, or even employers. that it is actually selfish not to take care of Check in with yourself and see if you are ourselves first before we give? As nurturers being stifled by self-imposed perfection. If we want to show up for people emotionally, so, it is likely robbing you of the joy you financially, etc. We can’t do this well if typically experience from giving. we have deprived ourselves of these five foundational aspects. Start with these as they are practical, accessible and necessary. As we are all being asked to do more and more these days (or at least do different), use these strategies to help minimize burnout and support your natural nurturer. It is ok to enjoy giving. It can give us a deep sense of purpose and joy. However, when these two things are no longer apparent, it is a good indication that one of these tools might help you get back on track. Emily Betros Emily is a licensed clinical social worker, certified health coach, and owner of Reclaiming Health, LLC. She specializes in body image support, eating disorders, anxiety, life transitions, mindfulness, and women's issues. More info: www.reclaiminghealth.net.
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THE CROSSROADS MALL
www.thecrossroadsmall.com
6650 S Westnedge Ave, Portage
CROSSROADS MALL HOURS:
REGULAR HOURS*
*Stores and hours var y. Please contact or visit The Crossroads website for store specific hours due to the pandemic .
Mon – Fri: 10am-9pm Sun: 12pm-6pm SCAN TO VIEW MALL HOURS
HOLIDAY HOURS & EVENTS AIM YOUR CAMERA HERE
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OR VISIT THECROSSROADSMALL.COM/HOURS
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GIFT GUIDE y a d i l o H
MALL
1. CHRISTOPHER & BANKS | $$
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Deck yourself or friends in holiday knit sweaters and scarves. And donations of $5 or more can earn you a C&B sweater ornament! Follow their holiday deals on their Portage store Facebook page too!
2. BURLINGTON | $ - $$ Behold the season for warm coats, for this will be your destination. You can shop trendy, name brand and affordable too! Don’t forget to get you favorite furry friend a little something too!
3. CLAIRE’S | $ - $$ Of course you’ll find fantastic holiday earrings and jewelry, but you can have fun with adorable holiday accessories for everyone’s stockings, from matching family masks and hats to gloves and scrunchies.
4. VIVID BODY JEWELRY | $$ Holiday and fun body jewelry for the stylish. This season, it’s about the metal cross earrings and dream-catcher style belly rings. And of course, rose gold.
5. ROGERS & HOLLANDS | $$-$$$
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A new pair of earrings? A watch or necklace too? This holiday season they have all the jewelry for you (or a special someone). Earn Holiday Dough with purchases, earning you $100 of an in-store purchase of $300 or more, redeemable through the end of next February.
6. KELLEY’S BOUTIQUE | $ - $$ Cold weather accessories from hats to stylish leg warmers for accenting your holiday look. Also, a plethora of pocket leggings in multiple styles and colors. You can get your winter cozy on here.
7. MACY’S | $$ Chocolates and ornaments, pajama sets and more, need things for the holidays? Well then, this is your store.
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MALL
GIFT GUIDE y a Holid 8. VERSONA | $ - $$
The weather outside is frightful, but that doesn’t mean you can’t look and feel delightful. Fun slippers, festive earrings, and the cutest and chique of holiday outfits (we love this season’s white sequined jacket).
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9. PANDORA | $$-$$$
Make the holiday bright with elegant earring and pendant necklace sets, or begin a new or add festive charms to your PANDORA charm bracelet, all with wrapping options of a beautiful box and pink bow.
10. ZUMIEZ | $$-$$$
Your chill-at-home wardrobe is here with beanie hats in near every color and a wall of hoodies. Fluffy fleece sweatshirts, winter casual and sports jackets, and you can get snowboards (albeit online).
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