Holiday & Gifts Galore - December 2008

GREATER KALAMAZOO

December 2008

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008

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Jennifer, My son is 16 1/2 years old. The man I’ve been dating is upset because they have yet to build a relationship. He sees my son at dinner at my house on Fridays and maybe one or more other times during the week. Mostly the time spent is over dinner. My son usually answers questions when asked and I’ve talked to him about giving us more than yes/ no answers, which he has done. However, my boyfriend feels my son should be asking him questions about his day, his job, etc. Until my son does this, this man won’t invite him to weekends away, which I think would help build that relationship. I told him that my son doesn’t even ask me questions, and I’m his mother! I don’t know what to do to encourage my son to communicate better with adults.

Also, is this a normal expectation for a 16 year old?

- SC

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SC, Let me first say how relieved I am that your son is a main focus in this situation. He has an unspoken (probably unrealized) trust in you to protect him and help him to be understood by others because you know him best. Your knowledge of him and your perceptions are of great importance here because he has been put in a no-win, nearly impossible position.

You didn’t mention how long you’ve been dating this man, but by the sound of things I’m guessing it hasn’t been a long period of time. Building a relationship takes time. And teenagers, especially boys, don’t generally engage freely with adults with whom they haven’t developed trust yet. Teens are naturally wrapped up in their own world. If my teen asked me how my day went I would probably fall over! That’s not to say they shouldn’t be taught concern for others or how to relate better with adults; just that this does not come naturally to them.

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Famous author, ______________________, requested that her gravestone read, “Big deal, I’m used to dust!”

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In ancient Egypt, women were allowed to perform the exact same jobs as men, except for one position. What was it?

A) judge B) cook C) accountant 3.

What did Annie Oakley do with all the gold medals she won for sharp-shooting?

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What is the last Western country to give women the right to vote, and when?

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Queen Elizabeth I suffered from anthophobia. What is it?

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My greatest concern here is the conditional, and somewhat threatening, situation the man you are dating has set up for your son.

It sounds as if his perceived “condition” on your son is this: If you ask me questions about my life and take an interest in me, then I will accept you and begin to form a relationship with you. Actually, your son needs unconditional relationships that help him to feel secure and accepted for who he is and the stage of life he is in. The pressure on him to meet your boyfriend’s condition is likely overwhelming, especially since he probably feels he must do this to support you.

Here are some things to think about. Your son has relatively little time with this man and it’s usually during dinner. He needs more diverse

time with him. Keep yourself in the picture as well, though, because he needs you as a buffer to keep the discomfort of a new situation at a minimum.

Men and boys always relate best when they are side by side working on something or engaged in an activity. Think about it, when men get together and talk they generally do it around a grill in the back yard or over a car engine. Rarely do they sit across from each other with solid eye contact and discuss matters (outside of business meetings).

With this picture in mind, think about how your son and the man in your life are seated at your table. Are they across from each other?

This is challenging and very uncomfortable for your son. Seat them side by side and let your son engage when he feels comfortable doing so. Your friend can share things in general about his life and touch on interests of your son’s, but not to the point of uncomfortable focus. Keep subject matters light and humorous. Allowing your son his own individuality and elaboration on his thoughts when he wishes to express them builds trust and implies acceptance of who he is. This cannot be forced or resentment will build and he will act out exactly opposite of your expectations.

If you are a busy single mom, it is likely that your son spends a lot of time with his friends.

If you want to encourage more comfort with adults, set limits on computer chat and messaging. Expose him as much as possible to adult family members and friends he is comfortable with. His communicative skills with adults will improve with time, as they do with all teens.

In answer to your final question; no, this is not a normal expectation. The man you are dating should be encouraged to simply enjoy time with you and your son, regardless of your son’s responses. Try to stay away from the dinners for awhile because they place heavy focus and expectation on your son. I would suggest that the three of you go do something fun and invite one of your son’s friends along. He will feel much more comfortable and will likely talk and interact with ease. Your friend will get to know your son and his friends better, which will also help to build this relationship.

Most importantly, remind your son of his importance in your life and how much you love him. When his base is secure and he knows your love for him has no conditions, he will be more willing to try and relate to the man in your life.

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Jennifer Scrogin, R.N., is a Communication Specialist and Certified Mediator.

Through her extensive background in women’s health and education she has founded JIS Communications, a program that focuses on assertive and effective communication between women in the workplace and in their personal relationships. Have a question for Jennifer? She can be reached at Jennifer@womenslifestylemagazine. com.

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008

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sher bli

Dear Readers, Happy Holidays! I just love Christmas! I’m sure by now you are very involved in all of the holiday hustle and bustle. Perhaps you are even wondering how you will get it all done! Me too!

Just remember, every year we always manage to complete all the tasks, or at least to decide which ones are critical to accomplish. I hope that you will make some time to stop and focus on a quiet moment just for yourself.

Each month it is always our goal to make sure our magazine has helpful tips and insightful ideas to empower every woman to live her life as completely and easily as possible. In today’s world, there are so many things to think about or to do, often we feel overwhelmed and exhausted.

Please join me in finding new and refreshing ways to enjoy the holidays to their fullest. We have included some new simple, yet delicious, recipes to help make entertaining fun and easy.

For our readers who love to cook, you will find lots holiday recipes that may soon become new family traditions.

Inside you’ll also find some great thoughts on living healthy. Sometimes when we get so busy, we think we do not have time to take care of ourselves. This is especially true during the holidays. Simple steps and ideas can prompt us to remember that our health is one of the greatest gifts we will ever receive only by taking care of it can we live our lives to the fullest.

Do you have some shopping to do? We have several pages of great gift ideas from many of our wonderful stores and shops here in Kalamazoo. We tried to include gifts for all budgets and for anyone who might be on your

Greater Kalamazoo

list. Need some help wrapping those gifts once you get them home? Our Conquer Your Clutter article will give you ideas on how to keep it simple yet beautiful. Decorating your home can be the most daunting of all. Where do you put all the decorations you have collected over the years? Take a moment and read, “Your Home and the Holidays” for some great thoughts on this project. Whatever your holiday challenge is this year, we’re hopeful you will find some creative ideas to help you overcome it.

Our sincerest holiday wish for you is that you have peace, love and joy in your life.

For many, however, the holidays can be overwhelming and sometimes lead to depression.

If you find this to be true for yourself this year, please reach out to a friend or professional who can help. Remember, almost everyone has survived a Christmas season that they just weren’t excited about. If you are blessed this Christmas please remember pass it on to those less fortunate – in the true holiday spirit.

As we celebrate another New Year, we thank you so much for the fantastic 2008 we enjoyed! We look forward to bringing many new articles, recipes and ideas to each edition in 2009. We hope that by now, you have taken a moment to check out our new website and online magazine. Each month you’ll find the new edition there, as well as the older editions (beginning with Oct. 08), safely stored for you, in the event you need a recipe or article for a friend. You will also be able to take virtual tours of many advertisers’ stores and much more. So please, if you haven’t had a moment to look us up online, do it as soon as you can at: www.womenslifestylekazoo.com.

Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah or Kwanzaa, we wish you the joy of the season from our families to yours.

December Contents HOLIDAY & GIFT IDEAS GALORE Gift Ideas for Fitness Fanatics .......................................................................... 12 Holiday Gift Guide – Gifts They’ll Love ......................................................13-16 Conquer Your Clutter: Gift Shopping (and Wrapping) Made Easy .................. 24 Holiday Gift Certificates – Shopping Made Simple .......................................... 26 Reader’s Lounge ............................................................................................. 38 HEALTHY IDEAS Red Wine ........................................................................................................ 31 Checklist for Women ...................................................................................... 31 Carbon Monoxide Poisoning - The Silent Killer ............................................... 31

TABLE OF CONTENTS

the P m u ro

EXPAND YOUR HORIZONS Coffee & Candor with Jennifer ........................................................................ 4 Trivia Teasers by KEY Media............................................................................. 4 Networking with the Kalamazoo Network ...................................................... 10 Good Manners: Graciously Giving and Graciously Receiving........................... 10 ‘Tis the Season of Compassion ....................................................................... 17 Financial Sauvé 101 ........................................................................................ 19 Rocky’s Humor: All I Want For Christmas ........................................................ 29 INTERIOR IDEAS Your Home and the Holidays .......................................................................... 22

Happy Holidays,

Darlene

Greater Kalamazoo

LOOKING & FEELING GOOD Fabulously Festive Fashion ................................................................................ 8 A TASTE OF SOMETHING NEW SIMPLY EASY: ENTERTAINING SECRETS OF A HOLLYWOOD PARTY PLANNER Festive Chocolate Fondue ............................................................................... 20 Mint Chocolate Ice Cream Cake ..................................................................... 20 Festive Chocolate fondue-Dipped Pastry Sticks ............................................... 20 Celebration Party Crackers .............................................................................. 21 Mediterranean Party Dip ................................................................................ 21 A JIGGER OF YULETIDE – A CUP OF CHEER Dreaming of Zen, Merry Irishman, Holiday Hopper & More ........................... 26

THE PEOPLE WHO MAKE IT HAPPEN: Publisher Darlene Clifford Layout and Design Jonathan Guinn, Guinn Design

Advertising Executive Ruth Ann Dibert Sales Manager Contributing Writers Madeline Zackery The Kalamazoo Network

CONTACT US

By Phone: 269-569-1647 Sales Info: 269-271-1032

By Email: wlskazoo@provide.net

By Mail: Greater Kalamazoo Women’s Lifestyle P.O. Box 228, Portage, MI 49081-2284

HAVE YOURSELF A MERRY CHRISTMAS BUFFET Rack of Pork with Parsleyed Crumbs ............................................................... 28 Roasted Potatoes with Bacon and Goat Cheese .............................................. 28 Spicy Sausage Hummus with Toasted Pita Triangles ....................................... 29 A SNAZZY HOLIDAY FARE Blueberry Glaze and Fruit Chutney for Ham or Turkey .................................... 32 Crab Balls ....................................................................................................... 33 Peach Dipping Sauce ...................................................................................... 33 Baked Apples with Mascarpone & Mead Glaze ............................................... 33 LOCAL EVENTS Calendar ......................................................................................................... 36

Mission Statement: Our missions is to provide women with information that is essential, enlightening and entertaining, and to provide our advertisers with high quality service and an effective advertising medium. Our content is resourceful and sincere. We strive to maintain a high level of integrity as a positive, inspiring and progressive media presence.

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008

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Festive Fabulously

Be a shining star against the cool evening sky with sparkling accents and glitzy accessories.

There may be no place like home but you’ll show your sense of adventure when you step out in this silver metallic fringe scarf and glitter pumps by Internacionale.

Fabulous Silver Trench by I•N•C

Silver across-thebody bag by A Gift From the Gods

December 2008 8 Greater Kalamazoo GreaterEdition• Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008

Fun and contemporary cubic zirconia encrusted charms by Miglio.

I•N•C for women delivers up-to-theminute, trend-right sportswear designed to add freshness and fun to the fashionable woman’s wardrobe. Cutting edge, off-therunway trends are captured and delivered in high profile, affordable clothes for the woman who wants to be noticed.

Head-turning silver blouse by I•N•C

Delightfully feminine gloves with silver bow from Macy’s autumn/winter 2008 collection.

Very stylish black and silver peep toe boot by ASOS

GreaterEdition• Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008 Greater Kalamazoo December 2008

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Every month Women’s Lifestyle is pleased to have the Kalamazoo Network answer your business and professional questions. The Kalamazoo Network has a large membership of women who either own their own business or are professional in many fields. If you have a question(s) you’d like answered please email us at: wlskazoo@provide.net RE: Kalamazoo Network Question.

I need to invest some more money in my existing business. Should I use my home equity, my IRA, get an investor, or a personal or commercial loan? Who could help me make this decision?

Contact the SCORE program; their retired professionals can provide an objective sounding board for your issue. If you decide to get a loan, check in to Globefunder.com as an alternative to traditional bank lending.

- Rochelle Pett-Reallign LLC Home equity is a good thing to use if you have it, usually you can get a heloc or 2nd mortgage at a reasonable rate, but use it wisely. Your CPA or Financial Planner would be some good people to ask. They would know your financial situation and should be able to guide you in the decision.

- Robin Hall-Senior Move Assistance Depending on how your business entity is set up, loan consideration options vary. An IRA is your personal future and the tax implications can be rather harsh, this is not a consideration by most financial advisors. A good solid educated financial advisor from the Kalamazoo Network group can provide you a complimentary review of option pros and cons and build a relationship with you to help you achieve your business goals.

- Sue Fritz-Fritz Financial & Insurance Svs.

If you can pay it back, go for the loan 1st (better credit), but consider home equity, also, as it shows potential investors you are serious. No, no, no IRA. - Bridgett Lorenz Lemberg-Forensic Fluids Laboratory Working with a financial advisor can be a great resource when you are trying to advance your business. When looking at business financing, leave your retirement assets alone! The penalties are too high. Look to SBA loans through your commercial bank. There are microloan programs available for startups and programs go up from there. See your full service banker.

- Gail Turluck-Ameriprise Financial One resource people overlook, if you cannot, or do not want to take a bank loan, is your 401K. If you are self- employed, you may consider starting an Individual 401k. You can roll over your previous employer plan, or IRA, into an Individual 401k, and then take a loan against 50% of the value. You would be paying yourself back the interest, not the bank.

There are rules to follow, so you should have conversations with your accountants, financial advisors, and/or any other advisors, before making any major decisions about debt structure. Don’t do this with an IRA, it will cost you tax and penalty.

- Sandy K. Derby, CFP, ChFC-Derby Financial & Assoc. LLC

Graciously Giving and Graciously Receiving

by Madeline L. Zackery The Christmas holiday season is quickly approaching. The stores are decked in holiday splendor as shoppers hurry about mulling over their Christmas shopping list.

For many of us this Christmas will be a little different than past years. Because of the economy and the rise in unemployment, some families may not have a lot of money to spend on Christmas gifts. However, this is a good opportunity for all of us to focus on the real “Reason for the Season”. It’s also a good time to practice “Holiday Etiquette” in Graciously Giving and Graciously Receiving.

Giving Graciously To give a gift “graciously”, is giving and not expecting anything in return. A person should not give with the main motive being “what are you going to give me now”.

A person should not give begrudgingly. Giving a gift only because you “have to” or because that person gave you something last year and now you feel you’d better give them something this year, is not the right motivation. There should be a Joy in giving. The Joy of seeing their eyes light up when they open your gift. The Joy of giving them something because of all the Joy they’ve brought into your life. The Joy of giving someone something that they never expected to receive. The Joy of giving to someone who desperately needed what you gave.

Giving Graciously also means being thoughtful and creative in selecting the gift. It does not have to be expensive, but something you have put some thought into. If you know you’ve given Uncle Bob handkerchiefs for the past 8 years, take some time to observe him or ask a family member what he really needs. It may be that what he really needs is a pair of gloves. It’s exciting to know that you gave someone something they really needed.

As a licensed REALTOR in today’s real estate market, I would advise not to tap into your hard earned home equity. I have seen too many people assume that home values were going to increase and take out home equity funds. This should be treated as a last resort type of financing. I would recommend trying to find a personal loan or cutting your costs somehow before taking out funds from your home equity. If you are set on taking a home equity loan out for your business take the time to have a licensed REALTOR give you a Comparative Market Analysis to show you what similar homes have sold for so that you will be informed on the recent real estate market and can make an informed business decision.

- Maureen Krause - Prudential Preferred REALTORS

Sandy Derby owns her own financial agency: Derby Financial.

She is currently serving as President of the Kalamazoo Network.

Knowing that there may not be multitude of gifts this year, this may be the perfect opportunity to teach our children to be grateful for anything they receive. This is a truly valuable life lesson. If you receive a gift from a neighbor, friend or a relative, take the time to send a thank you note letting them know you received the gift and that you appreciate it. Many times our communication is by e-mail, text messaging or phone, but the proper way to say thank you is by sending a thank you note.

This year we may want to challenge our children to be creative and make the gifts they will be giving to others. Make it into a fun family project. Some of the best gifts I’ve received, as a parent, were hand made by my children. They will make precious memories when the children are grown and you can share these treasures with their children.

Whether you’re a recipient or the gift giver, do it graciously. The Joy is in both giving and receiving. I remember years ago inviting a lady from my church to visit our home with her children. My daughter (who was only four at the time) was helping me give them coats, dresses and various clothing. She was pulling things out of her dresser drawers and giving them to her guests. We were so happy sharing these items with them and seeing how appreciative and happy they were. Over the years, this same woman has reminded me many times how much that meant to her and I’ve always responded with the truth: “It was our pleasure”.

I would like to think that now, more than ever, people who have an abundance will cheerfully give to those who must go without. If you don’t have gifts to give, you can give of your time. If this economy has not affected your ability to give to others, then give, give to those in need. There will be families and children that will perhaps go without this Christmas. Make it your business to be involved in helping others. When you do, you will receive the Joy and Peace that comes when you help your fellowman.

Receiving Gracefully When you are the recipient of a gift, it is very important to show gratitude. A gift is a token of affection, appreciation or love. When you receive a gift never take it for granted. Sometimes as parents, we are so excited about giving our children gifts and give them so much, that they grow to expect lots of gifts. Some parents have complained that after their children opened gift after gift, when everything was opened, they asked “Is that all?”

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I would start with SCORE--counselors for small businesses. They have a group at the Kalamazoo Chamber of Commerce…they should provide an unbiased opinion for your business investment.

- Diane Grundy-China Pearls

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008

Madeline L. Zackery has been teaching Etiquette and Modeling for over 41 years. She has provided programs for: Kalamazoo Public Library, 4-H, Big Sisters, Girl Scouts, KVCC, WMU, and more.

She writes a column for Community Voices & contributes to the Kalamazoo Gazette. Madeline has written several children’s books on etiquette, her latest arriving this fall. Madeline is the owner of Madeline’s Modeling & Talent Agency.

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008

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Gift Ideas for Fitness Fanatics

By Kimberly Monaghan

ne of the best ways to show you care this holiday season is to give someone the gift of good health. No one understands that better than the fitness fanatic. Unfortunately, fitness buffs can also be the most challenging people to shop for. What do they want?

What do they need? Although they may have a plenty of water bottles, running shoes, and free weights on hand, people who love sports and fitness are always on the lookout for smart gear, new equipment and cutting-edge fitness supplies that enhance their active and healthy lifestyle.

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Fitness Supplies A fitness fanatic can tear through equipment and supplies quickly, often replacing items they use on a regular basis.

Rubber, yoga or spongy floor mats make great gifts because of the frequent wear and tear they’re subjected to. Rubber mats that are placed under weight benches or used to create a soft surface for cardio workouts are inexpensive and come in compact and easily transportable sets. Spongy floor mats are a little more expensive, starting at around $150, but they provide a wide range of useful enhancements for any activity from Pilates and martial arts to gymnastics and dance. Stretch cords and balance balls are another great gift and can enhance a set they may already have, as well as serve as backup. In keeping with the on-the-go theme, a new fitness bag packed with towels, stretch cords, a compact mat, sport sunglasses and DVDs is an ideal gift for someone who doesn’t like to leave their workout behind.

New Equipment Anything that can supplement a workout regimen makes a great gift for fitness fanatics. Investing a little ingenuity into what might enhance their workouts would not only broaden their athletic horizons, but really show that you put some thought in meeting their needs.

Smart Gear For someone who loves all kinds of sports, consider buying a gift that can easily transfer from one activity to another. Athletic apparel that is both comfortable and hitech is a must have for fitness fanatics.

“There are too many people working out in cotton and just haven’t tried performance clothing made from moisture wicking fabrics,” explains McBain. “Once they try it they never go back to sweats and a T-shirt.” He also recommends a heart rate monitor as a great all around gift. “It will allow them to get an idea of how hard they are working, no matter what the activity.”

Cutting-Edge Products Every fitness fanatic loves trying out all the new and innovative products hitting the shelves each year.

“Kettlebells from GoFit with a training DVD are really hot right now,” states McBain. “They offer a strength workout that has become very popular for women. The BOSU from Fitness Quest has become very hard to keep in stock,” he explains. “It may be the hottest item in fitness.”

McBain also recommends adjustable dumbbells from Reebok and Pro-Form, which save money and a ton of space. The Stayball from Reebok utilizes sand for stability in creating a safer workout, as well as an ideal healthenhancing chair when fitness fanatics are forced to sit at a desk. Of course, if you really want to impress, consider a sports and fitness travel package or purchasing a few hours with a personal trainer to help them reevaluate their regimen from a professional perspective. With so many choices to consider, McBain advises consulting with a fitness expert to find the perfect give for the fitness fanatic on your holiday list.

“More and more people are turning to yoga as a supplement to, or replacement for, their traditional workout,” explains Scott McBain, buyer for MC Sports. “A mat, yoga block and DVD are enough to get someone started on a whole new activity.”

Also keep in mind that fitness fanatics never stop training, no matter the season. Rubber grips for running shoes that allow for traction in ice and snow, a set of roller blades for offseason hockey training, and weight sets for resistance training during inclement weather are fantastic gift ideas that encourage year-round fitness.

Sarah Lurie’s best selling DVD “KETTLEBELLS THE IRON CORE WAY” is included with each GoFit Kettlebell.

Celebrities & athletes such as Lance Armstrong, Penelope Cruz, Jessica Biel, Katherine Hiegl, Jennifer Lopez, Matthew McConaughey, the super ripped cast of the movie “300.” Mariska Hargitay and Kim Cattrall use kettlebells to put major muscle into their routines and Jennifer Love Hewitt recently made headlines by losing 18 lbs in 10 weeks with the help of kettlebells. Starts at $29.99.

Kimberly Monaghan is a certified yoga instructor and freelance writer.

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008

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‘Tis the Season of

Compassion

By Janice Lynne Lundy “Do you have a kind heart today?” the Indian master Atisha asked. He posed this question to whomever he might encounter in his daily travels. Can you envision someone stopping you in a busy mall in the midst of the holiday hustle and asking you that very question? I imagine that any of us would be caught unawares, stumbling over ourselves to come up with a good response. “Umm, I’m a little busy right now,” we’d say. “I have a lot of shopping to do in a really short time, so I’m not sure.”

Or, “Yeah, OK, I’m feeling pretty kind. I am buying people all this stuff, you know.” And on we’d march to the next store, with the single-pointed attention of a hunting dog sniffing out his prey. “Geez, what a weirdo,” we’d mumble to our companion, glancing back at master Atisha who is now asking the question to another unsuspecting shopper.

In truth, ever since I stumbled across Atisha’s question, I’ve been thinking about it a lot, and trying it on for size. Not asking someone else the question, mind you, but asking it of myself as a way of determining how openhearted I am at any given moment. It seems that in December we’re invited to think a bit more about how we relate to others. The holidays we celebrate—Hanukkah, Christmas or Kwanzaa—invite us to examine our own hearts; to open them wide, offer wishes of well-being to others, and engage in acts of generosity. But what if we’re like that shopper in the mall I described, and we’re feeling too busy or overwhelmed, resentful or Scrooge-like, at what the holiday season demands of us? What then? Might I suggest, cultivating compassion.

Webster’s dictionary defines compassion as empathy, care, concern, sensitivity, warmth, tenderness or mercy toward another.

The definition I like best, however, is kindness. If you combine this word with another sourced in the formal definition of

compassion—“love”—you’ll discover my new, most favorite word in the English language: lovingkindness. To me, this word says it all. Just saying it, in fact, makes you feel warm and fuzzy all over. Lovingkindness. It opens the door of your heart just a crack, enough to let in a little ardor of the season.

We can begin to cultivate this virtue by asking ourselves Atisha’s question: Am I feeling kind right now? This is a wonderful question to reflect upon, especially in the midst of a season whose pressures may disconnect us from our good, kind heart.

Start Where You Are Lovingkindness begins at home. Not with our loved ones, but with ourselves. In the spirit of holiday giving, of wanting to make things jolly for everyone, we may not treat ourselves so kindly. We may live from a monumental “To Do” list; make numerous commitments to entertain; and set standards of decorating or gift giving that rival Martha Stewart herself. Because we innately want to give of ourselves and create beautiful, meaningful experiences for others, we may overextend or exhaust ourselves. This is not being nice to ourselves. Naughty is more like it!

If we desire to be more compassionate and kind to others, we must be that for ourselves first. As the holidays progress, don’t let your desire to please, an inclination toward perfection, or those nasty “shoulds” get in the way of your own self-care. Don’t let “keeping up with the Jones’” prevent you from keeping up with yourself. You can demonstrate self-kindness in many ways: Saying no when you feel so inclined. Delegating. Minimizing. Not rushing. Resting. And giving yourself some TLC on a regular basis. Treat yourself

as nicely as you would your own best friend. The more kindly you treat yourself, the better you’ll feel—and the more beneficent of heart you’ll be to others. When we take good care of ourselves, we are able to more fully care for those we love.

Do Unto Others I have been blessed throughout my life with many women who have modeled compassion for me. Wise and wonderful women they were, so generous and kind: grandmothers, my mother, mothers of friends, teachers and mentors. So many showed me firsthand how to be caring because they were so caring themselves. I believe we can learn to be more compassionate by role modeling the acts of those who have gone before us.

If you’re feeling a bit stingy or closed-hearted, call upon a memory of someone who demonstrated compassion to you.

Bring them into your mind’s eye and feel, once again, what it was like to be on the receiving end of their mercy. Their tenderness. Their generosity. Remember how delicious it felt to be cared for in this way. The greatest gift you can give to them this holiday season is to emulate their fine example. Do unto others as they have done to you. Share the love they bestowed upon you with others who may be in need of love themselves. Model the compassion you’ve been shown and just watch how everyone around you begins to boast that holiday glow.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama, one of the most respected spiritual leaders of our day, may have articulated best how it is we arrive at a place of compassion. “If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.” No matter which holidays we celebrate, no matter what traditions we hold dear, the thread of compassion runs through them all. The brightest and most beautiful gift of the season is lovingkindness – yours, mine and ours.

Janice Lynne Lundy is an inspirational speaker and retreat leader, spiritual director and the author of “Your Truest Self: Embracing the Woman You are Meant to Be,” available in bookstores nationwide or at www.amazon.com. Visit www.awakenedliving.com to learn more about Jan, her writing and her events.

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008

‘TIS THE SEASON TO BE JOLLY–

AND FINANCIALLY SECURE your gross income and then be sure to take off items like Medicare taxes, 401(k) contributions, health insurance premiums and any other withholdings.

Once you have your take home income calculated, make sure to be detailed on your expenses. Remember those once or twice a year expenses like property taxes and homeowner’s insurance. Also, include holiday spending, birthday gifts, lawn care, home maintenance, dance recitals or those other unusual expenses that occur on an occasional basis.

Don’t forget life insurance premiums, travel and your usual monthly expenses.

Even

though our country and world have a great deal of challenges to deal with at this time, we all should keep in mind that we live in the land of opportunity and the land of the free. And though we may be facing individual challenges, whether they are financial, health, family or occupational, we still live in a free society where we are free to make choices and pursue our dreams.

For that, we should celebrate and embrace our current situations. We should seek out opportunities to grow and prosper. But in order for us to prosper, sometimes we need to check our decisions and ourselves and put forth an effort to make smart choices with our financial resources.

Sometimes we have to decide to forgo a purchase or expense that we would like to make, choosing instead to be conscientious of our finances to help ensure we obtain financial security and independence.

As the holidays approach us, it is a time when we all will be making decisions about spending money. For most, this is the time of year when our budgets get stretched and, for some, expenses will exceed income. Hopefully, you have been saving throughout the year for this annual event.

If you have been doing so, congratulations. If you have not, then maybe you can start out 2009 on the right foot and begin planning your finances so that you will be in a better financial position at this time next year.

One of the courses of action you should consider during this turbulent time is a complete financial update. When completing this type of plan, all of your financial affairs should be considered. This way, you and your family will have the confidence of knowing that you are prepared for the known and the unknown.

When you complete a comprehensive financial update, you need to consider the following: Assess your financial situation - Begin this process by looking at all of your income and all of your expenses. List each item of income and expense on a sheet of paper. Start with

After you have established a cash flow projection for next year, you will want to calculate your net worth. This is an extremely important number. This is your benchmark for determining your progress from one year to the next towards achieving your financial goals. Your net worth is simply the value of everything that you own minus all that you owe. Hopefully, this is a positive number. And hopefully, it will go up each year either through saving more of what you earn, reducing what you owe or having your current assets increase in value. With the stock market and real estate market both down this year, this is a time when many people’s net worth will be less than what it was twelve months ago. However, do not despair. Instead, remain focused on your goals and, if appropriate, meet with your financial advisor to talk about your goals for the future and different strategies you can use to get you there.

After you have prepared your net worth statement, you should review your emergency fund to ensure it is adequate based upon your current situation. How much you have in emergency funds depends on a few factors. Although the common advice in the financial planning world is three to six months of expenses, this amount can vary higher or lower based on your occupation, the stability of your income, if you are married, whether or not your spouse earns income and, if so, how steady their income is.

Typically, if you or your spouse’s incomes are volatile due to your occupation or if either of your jobs is not secure, you may want to err on the higher end of the spectrum and have more cash available for emergencies.

This process of assessing your financial situation is the first step in the comprehensive financial update process. Once this is complete, you should consider completing the other six areas of review, which would include: Saving for major expenses – This would include college education, buying a house or another car, and developing a cash reserve for special occasions like weddings or vacations.

Retirement Planning – You can never start too early when it comes to estimating retirement income and expenses and adjusting those numbers for inflation. Talk to anyone that is nearing or in retirement and they will tell you to start saving for retirement as early as possible, even if it is just a few dollars a week. For those that are in retirement or nearing that stage, talk to those younger generations and ensure they are preparing themselves for financial independence.

Investment Planning- Identify your objectives when it comes to investing and define your timetable. It’s amazing how as humans we want to get more aggressive when times are good and more conservative when times are bad.

We have always been told to buy low and sell high, but we tend to do the opposite. For those that get emotional about their investments, this is where a good advisor can assist you in making smart choices with your money. Develop an asset allocation strategy and stick to it. If your risk tolerance changes, make sure it is for the right reasons and not a reaction to short term market volatility.

Tax Planning – Too many times I see clients waiting to do their tax planning in March or April. The time to do tax planning is in the fourth quarter of the calendar year, not when you are completing your taxes for last year. Tax advisors do not have the time to do comprehensive tax planning during tax season. However, many tax advisors have plenty of time available between May and December, and you will capture their attention better and maybe get better advice because of it.

Protecting against financial crisis – This is planning for the unknown. Unfortunately, we live in a society filled with perils. We need to protect our families and ourselves should we be dealt a challenging circumstance like disability, a car accident, a fire or the terrible possibility of premature death. In this instance, I often see people overlook things like the loss of health insurance for the surviving family members, reduced retirement savings or having a surviving parent forced back into the workforce at the worst possible time in a child’s life.

Estate Planning – Hopefully when we have lived a long life surrounded by many loved ones and have many fond memories, we will pass on and leave a legacy to those we love. Estate planning is helping to plan for the orderly distribution of our assets, reduce estate taxes and provide for any charities, if you are so inclined. We never know what our future has in store for us and certainly this is something that should be addressed by all and updated every five years or so, or when you have significant changes in your wishes. Additionally, make sure that you have current powers of attorney, living wills and health care proxies.

So, take this opportunity to sit down and review your current situation. Prepare for the future so that you can go forward with confidence in your financial well-being. It can have a tremendous, positive impact on other areas of your life. With a thorough financial review, you can enjoy the holidays more and feel great that you are living the American dream.

Happy Holidays and Cheers to 2009. Let it be a wonderful year.

Prudential, its affiliates and financial professionals do not offer tax or legal advice. Consult your tax or legal advisor regarding your particular situation.

This material is provided courtesy of Robert “Bryan” Burkey, Prudential Financial Planning Services. It contains general information to help you understand financial strategies. It contains references to concepts that may have legal, accounting and tax implications and is not meant to provide individual advice in this regard. Investing involves risks and there is no guarantee that any one strategy protects against a loss in a declining market. You should consult with your own advisors regarding your particular situation.

Robert Burkey offers investment advisory services as a representative of Prudential Financial Planning Services, a division of Pruco, LLC (Pruco), and securities products and services as a Registered Representative of Pruco. The Prudential Insurance Company of America, Newark NJ, and Pruco are Prudential Financial companies. 1-800-201-6690 IFS-A157409 Ed 11/2008

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008

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Simply Easy Entertaining Secrets of a Hollywood Party Planner courtesy Pepperidge Farm

The best-kept party secrets? Great dishes, a festive atmosphere and a relaxed host. Nobody knows this better than Lulu Powers. With Hollywood A-list clients, Lulu knows that successful parties begin with planning ahead and stocking up.

“The holidays are a hectic time; friends or family might decide to pop by with little notice,” she says.

“Here’s a tip to ensure you’re always ready to entertain like you’ve been planning for days — stock the pantry with great cookies and crackers. Fill your refrigerator with ready-made appetizer spreads, such as hummus, flavored cheese or your own special dip.

And have dessert recipes you can assemble in minutes.”

“Purchase red and green plates and napkins to have on hand,” she adds. “Think of special touches and garnishes for everything you serve.

Together with your best crowd-pleasing, hostess-friendly recipes, you’ll be ready to host and enjoy your own party.”

Festive Chocolate Fondue 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate pieces 1 stick (1/2 cup) butter Toasted Pepperidge Farm Cinnamon Swirl Bread cut into strips or Chessmen, Ginger Man or Milano Cookies Fresh strawberries and bunches of seedless grapes, for garnish Place chocolate and butter in 8-inch skillet over low heat until chocolate melts, stirring constantly. Pour mixture into decorative dish. Serve with toasted cinnamon bread or cookies for dipping. Arrange strawberries and bunches of seedless grapes around bowl.

Mint Chocolate Ice Cream Cake 1 bag Pepperidge Farm Mint Milano Cookies, crushed 3 tablespoons melted butter 3 cups softened mint chocolate chip ice cream Hot fudge topping Sweetened whipped cream Candy canes, crushed, for garnish Combine crushed cookies and melted butter and press into greased 8-inch cake pan. Spoon softened ice cream over crust. Freeze 1 hour. Slice and serve with warm hot fudge, sweetened whipped cream and sprinkled crushed candy canes. (This easy-to-make and delicious dessert can also be made with any flavor of Milano cookies and vanilla ice cream.)

Festive Chocolate Fondue-Dipped Pastry Sticks 1 sheet Pepperidge Farm Puff Pastry 1 recipe Festive Chocolate Fondue 2 cups finely crushed candy canes Start by thawing 1 sheet puff pastry 40 minutes or until easy to handle.

Cut into 4-inch strips and place on baking sheet. Preheat oven to 400°F and bake 20 minutes or until golden. Dip one end of pastry sticks in Festive Chocolate Fondue, then sprinkle with crushed candy canes. Place on waxed paper-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate or let stand at room temperature until chocolate is set.

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008

Celebration Party Crackers 2 2 2 1 1 1 1/2 1

tablespoons butter, melted tablespoons packed brown sugar tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves tablespoon olive oil tablespoon honey teaspoon curry powder teaspoon ground red pepper bag Pepperidge Farm Goldfish Cheddar Baked Snack Crackers

Stir butter, brown sugar, rosemary, oil, honey, curry and red pepper in medium bowl. Add crackers and toss to coat. Place crackers in single layer on baking sheet.

Bake at 400°F about 5 minutes or until crackers are golden. Cool.

Mediterranean Party Dip 1 1/4 cups Swanson Chicken Broth (Regular, Natural Goodness or Certified Organic) 3 cups Pepperidge Farm Herb Seasoned Stuffing 1 cup mayonnaise 1/4 cup soft goat cheese 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 tablespoons lemon juice 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme leaves 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon honey 1 jar (4 ounces) roasted sweet red peppers, drained and minced 1 pomegranate cut in half and seeds removed for garnish Chopped fresh chives, for garnish Pepperidge Farm Distinctive Crackers Heat broth in 2-quart saucepan over high heat to boil. Place stuffing in large serving bowl. Pour broth over stuffing and stir lightly. Stir in mayonnaise, cheese, garlic, lemon juice, thyme, paprika, honey and peppers. Sprinkle with pomegranate seeds and chives. Serve at room temperature with crackers for dipping.

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008

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An interior designer and artist, Julie Hogan has more than 20 years experience in retail and residential design. Her artistic spirit and open mind provide her clients with creative perspectives and fresh ideas for their projects. To contact Julie with a design question or to check out what she is currently working on, visit her Web site, www.

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Interior Ideas

Your Home and the Holidays

By Julie Hogan

bowl and enjoying them in a new way.

Holiday décor is something that doesn’t need to disrupt the flow of your well-designed home. In fact it will add a delightful sparkle and warm ambience that reflects what the holidays are all about. Consider beautiful vases, votives, urns and figurines. Roost offers Mercury Glass votives which acts as a mirror and discretely amplifies the colors in your room. Combined with a tasteful display with a few pinecones, some fresh garland and white candles, these reflective accessories work perfectly on a mantle, hearth or as a centerpiece for your holiday table.

Birch Bark Trees by Roost

I

t’s time once again to dig out the ornaments, untangle those lights you worked so hard to straighten last January, and hang the dusty garland over the mantel. Ahh… the holidays!

But you’ve worked tirelessly to make your home look and feel a certain way. You may have spent hours picking out the perfect fabric for your living room sofa, or diligently labored over a room redo that incorporated the perfect shade of blue to coordinate with a favorite piece of art. Just when you feel you’ve achieved a living space worthy of a magazine cover, here comes a parade of red and green that has a mind of its own and couldn’t care less about your carefully coordinated home.

home’s overall design statement, color coordination and all, the family has to come first. Having a tree or area in your home that is decorated by and for the kids is a special and meaningful way to showcase each and every homemade ornament, uniquely strung garland, blinking colored lights and yes, the snow globe collection.

Second, are there ornaments or decorations that are broken, out-dated or just no longer important to you?

Throw out the broken decorations and donate the ornaments that are not of significance to you anymore to local charities. If you have favorites that are no longer tree-worthy, consider putting them in a glass vase or

All is not lost, however. You can stand firm and reclaim what is yours. After all, you’ve worked hard and a red and green nightmare is not about to disrupt your home’s year-round style. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy a fancy-shmancy holiday room as much as the next person, with a (secret) collection of snow globes to prove it. There’s really no way around the youthful fantasy the holidays bring and I accept that. However, what I’d like to think is that I can somehow control where that fantasy ends up in my home.

When considering which holiday decorations from the past to unpack and which ones you should reconsider, keep a couple of things in mind.

First and foremost, if there’s an ornament or decoration that is meaningful to you or your family, then by all means incorporate it. Family traditions are especially important during the holidays. Regardless of your

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008

Selenite Square and Iceberg lamps are seasonal accessories, also by Roost, whose icy white appearance will work into your space and depict a piece of the North Pole on your table. Display these lights near an arrangement that uses branches from your yard or artificial twig trees.

Adorn tabletop trees with a few of your favorite colored ornaments, and winter seems to have moved right inside. Birch bark trees will also work into any décor.

These natural elements add character and charm to your holiday home.

The holidays don’t have to completely undo the hard work you put into your home all year long.

With some consideration and careful editing, the design opportunities they encourage can contribute subtly to your rooms.

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008

23

Conquer Your Clutter

Gift Shopping (and Wrapping)

Made Easy ut on some holiday music, pull out your gift lists and organize your gift gathering, garnishing and giving as this festive season rolls along. With a bit of planning, you can link the right gift with the perfect recipient and have some fun with the planning, the purchasing and the presentation.

P

Making a List and Checking it Twice Who’s on your gift list this year? Will you be part of any gift exchanges? Are there coworkers, teachers or service providers to add to your list? Jot down all those names and begin to list gift ideas beside their names.

I keep a notebook year round and jot down gift ideas.

If someone mentions a favorite color or their shoe size or something they really want, I make a note of it.

If I read a book or see a review and think it would appeal to someone, I add it to my notebook. I keep a file folder labeled “Gift ideas 2008,” filled with ideas clipped from magazines or catalogs throughout the year.

As I purchase gifts, I keep a list discreetly folded in my purse. A checkmark means the gift has been purchased. An “X” beside it means the gift has already been wrapped. Another file folder labeled “Gifts - past years,” holds these lists after the season. This assures that I don’t give the same gift twice and helps avoid any re-gifting errors.

Gift Storage

Curb Your Excess

By Alexandra Fix

Mix up a batch, fill a glass jar, copy your recipe and tie it to the jar with a ribbon. Keep a couple of these in your gift center for potential quick gifts.

Gift Wrapping Central Purchase and fill one of those tall clear boxes that hold tubes of wrapping paper. Have fun with the season. Maybe you can pick a color theme this year or tap in to your polka dot fetish. You could also purchase a roll of plain paper and rolls of distinctive ribbon at the fabric or craft store.

In a basket or box, stash tape, scissors, gift tags and tissue paper. Keep these items in the same area as the gift wrap, preferably near a table or clean, flat surface. A clothes folding table in the laundry area doubles well for me as gift wrap central. (Plus this keeps me on my toes, putting the laundry away in a timely manner so that I always have a clear surface.)

I keep a portable CD player and holiday music ready and waiting in my gift wrap area to add a festive note to something that could become a chore. I try to wrap gifts as the season moves along. When I bring home a few items, I get them wrapped right away and note my progress on my gift list. It’s so much easier than the overwhelming task if Christmas Eve approaches and nothing has been wrapped yet.

Get a handle on gift boxes for now and for the future.

Neatly arrange your gift boxes in a large storage container. (My container is a covered packing box that measures 17x11x13 inches.) One of those sturdy boxes that holds copy machine paper will work well.

One or two large plastic tubs with lids make a great spot to stash unwrapped gifts as you begin your holiday shopping.

Also, throughout the year, gather small extra items in a box, tucked away but easy to access. If you have space you might even designate a full shelf as your gift center. If you’ve forgotten a gift for someone, you can recover with ease without even making a trip to the store. If you need a hostess gift for an unexpected affair, something here might be perfect. Stock the gift center with bath products, candles, wine, gourmet grocery items, small kitchen gadgets, note cards, ornaments or the jellies you preserved last summer. Do you have a yummy granola or trail mix recipe?

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Fold gift boxes flat, pair bottom and cover together and stack them upright in this single box. Anything more than that goes to recycling. These really are all the boxes you need. Replenish the box when you receive boxed gifts and you’ll always have a constant supply.

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008

Are finances tight this season? Don’t give what you can’t afford. Allow yourself to shake up the routine.

Let friends and family know that you’re readjusting your gift-giving habits. If you’re trying to cut costs, first and foremost, don’t use your credit card. It’s too easy to overspend. Determine the honest amount you can spend this holiday season and put the actual cash you will spend in an envelope labeled with the gift recipient’s name. Let this help you curb your impulses and use only that cash. Challenge yourself to stop worrying about whether your gift given is equal to a gift received. Let this season free you with the true spirit of giving once again.

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MIDORI Melon Ball Drop 2 oz. MIDORI 1 oz. SKYY Citrus Infusions .5 Oz Elderflower Liquor Juice 1/2 Lemon Sugar Rim Shake and strain into a martini glass. Garnish with a melon ball on the rim.

Dreaming of ZEN 1 oz. ZEN .5 oz MIDORI 3 oz. Mango Juice White Pepper 2 oz. Cream Shake/strain over ice into a martini glass or champagne flute. Garnish with mint leaves and a dash of nutmeg.

ZEN Latte 1-1/2 parts of ZEN 6 Parts Steamed Milk Stir and garnish with matcha powder

Holiday Hopper Dreaming of ZEN

1 oz MIDORI . .5 oz Crème de Menthe Green .5 oz Crème de Cocao White 2 oz Half and half

Merry Irishman 2 parts Tullamore Dew Irish Whiskey 1 part Kahlua 1/2 part Mint Schnapps Serve over ice in a Rocks glass Garnish with candy cane

Shake and strain into a martini glass. Garnish with mint leaves and raspberry.

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008

MIDORI Melon Ball Drop

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cookiesbydesign.com Greater Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008

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Wow your guests with this deliciously easy rack of pork.

This surprisingly simple dish will steal the show at your next holiday gathering.

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Rack of Pork with Parsleyed Crumbs

Roasted Potatoes with Bacon and Goat Cheese

Serves 8

Serves 6

1 rack of pork, chine bone trimmed, about 7 or 8 ribs 3/4 cup coarse-grained mustard 1-1/2 cups fresh breadcrumbs 3/4 cup minced fresh parsley 1 tablespoon dried thyme, crumbled 3 garlic cloves, minced Salt and coarsely-ground pepper to taste Cooking Directions Heat oven to 350° F. Season pork with salt and pepper, as desired. Brush pork with 1/4 cup mustard. In medium bowl, combine remaining mustard with remaining ingredients. Press crumb mixture evenly over top of pork. Arrange pork crumb side up in roasting pan. Roast for 1-1/2 hours, or until thermometer inserted into center of meaty part registers 150° F. Remove pork from oven and let stand 10 minutes; temperature should rise to 160° F. Carve pork, cutting between ribs, and serve.

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008

Make-Ahead pound sliced bacon Tip: Roast potasmall red potatoes, halved toes before guests cup sour cream arrive; keep warm cup plain goat cheese in the oven. Top tablespoons sliced green onions with cheese mixture cup Parmesan cheese before serving. tablespoons snipped dill weed, plus dill weed for garnish 1/4 teaspoon each seasoned salt and freshly ground black pepper Olive oil 1/2 12 1/2 1/4 4 1/4 3

Cooking Directions Heat oven to 450° F. In large skillet cook bacon over medium heat, turning to brown evenly, until crisp. Blot bacon on paper towels, mince and set aside. Brush cut surfaces of potatoes lightly with olive oil. Place potato halves cut side up on a shallow rimmed baking pan; bake until potatoes are tender and faces of potatoes are lightly browned, about 20-30 minutes. Meanwhile, in small bowl mash together sour cream and goat cheese, stir in minced bacon, onion, Parmesan, dill, salt and pepper. Top each potato with a spoonful, about 2 teaspoons, of sour cream mixture. Serve warm.

Rocky’s Holiday Musings

All I Want for Christmas . . . is for someone to pull Uncle Don’s finger.

By Roxanne O’Neil

endured another playful thump from Uncle Ron. It seems all we are left with is wondering how grandma will have the dog dressed for the holidays (and grandma thinks a white male dog in a wreathshaped collar with bells and four little matching booties is cute). I’m telling you: We need children back in our lives.

I want highchairs and cute Christmas outfits on small children, not dogs. It should be our turn to help pass a baby around until it gets sick. I want to buy toys that make lots of noise and fill the stomachs of other people’s children with enough sugar to keep them awake for two days straight.

And oil paints for a 4 year old? Why not. Our parents and siblings did this to us when we had young children.

It’s not that I’m saying we really had potato gun fights, played poker or laughed at the dog. My mother would not be happy if I mentioned such things. She has always tried for that Norman Rockwell Christmas – unfortunately with a bunch of hooligans. All I’m saying is this: We need someone to pull Uncle Don’s finger again.

he magic of Christmas is really only made complete with the delight and wonder of chilcom comp dren. Have you ever seen a Norman Rockwell dren holiday scene that didn’t feature rosy-cheeked holid babes? Even a sentimental holiday commercial babe from Hallmark or Kodak will always showcase people under 4’ tall and their absolute joy in the peop season. seaso

T

The problem in my family is that the children have grown up and haven’t provided us with babies all gr play with and spoil. Imagine a to pl roomful of adults, ages 21 to 77, bellies full of room Christmas food and cheer, with not enough to do Chris and nno small children to tease. There are no toys to put ttogether. No whispers about what Santa will be leaving under the tree. No little voices joining in the annual sing-along and nobody left who doesn’t know better than to pull Uncle Don’s finger.

It was a sad, sad moment several Christmases ago when I witnessed Uncle Don approach the youngest child in the room, finger extended, sweet

Spicy Sausage Hummus with Toasted Pita Triangles Serves 12 This spicy appetizer looks complicated, but can be assembled earlier in the day and refrigerated until serving time.

6 ounces spicy Italian sausage, cooked, crumbled and drained 1 7-ounce container hummus 1/2 cup sour cream 1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper 1 6-ounce jar marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped 2 tablespoons chopped oil-cured olives 1/2 of 7-ounce jar roasted red peppers, diced 4 green onions, chopped, including some green 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese 4 6-inch pita breads

smile on his face and one simple request: “Pull my finger.” The evil child, who happened to be mine, looked and him and said, “Heck no. Think I’m stupid or something?” Don’s fallen face was almost more than I could bare; not that I offered to pull his finger either, but I knew I was witnessing the end of an era.

No more kazoo bands playing “Here Comes Santa Claus,” and no more fighting over which adult can get the breadbasket out of the new Operation game without the buzzer going off.

Not even a Slinky race will be had again this year.

Geez, these kids are so mature they no longer spray Silly String into the candle flames to create the “cool fires” that gave their grandma fits. All our potato guns have been holstered and instead of “Jingle Bells” we now belt out old Motown tunes like “Do You Love Me?” by the Contours.

Our feasts and festivities are left lacking with no temper tantrums from over-tired 3 year olds. I even miss the whining of a 7 year old who’s just

So, if you have an extra 4 year old and don’t mind him coming home just a little wound up, with a cookie-stained face, a couple of snowman jokes*, who also had the best time ever with the most loving family, just let me know. We’ll be happy to have him.

Q: What do you get when you cross a vampire with a snowman? A: Frostsbite!

Q: What do snowmen like to eat for breakfast?

A: Frosted Flakes!

Cooking Directions In medium bowl, stir together hummus, sour cream and cayenne pepper; spread evenly on a 10-inch serving plate. Sprinkle with remaining ingredients in this order: olives, artichoke, sausage, roasted pepper, onion and feta.

Heat oven to 375° F. Split pita breads in half horizontally; cut each round into six wedges. Place on ungreased cookie sheets. Bake 8-10 minutes or until crisp. Serve with dip.

Quick Serving Tip: Serve with crackers or breadsticks instead of pita triangles.

Southwestern Variation: Substitute mashed black or pinto beans for hummus, crushed chipotle chiles for cayenne, chorizo for Italian sausage, diced avocado for olives, queso anejo for feta and halved cherry tomatoes for roasted peppers. Serve with tortilla chips.

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008

Health Screening

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Checklist for Women courtesy ahrq.gov Screening tests can find diseases early, which can make them easier to treat. Health experts from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force have made recommendations, based on scientific evidence, about testing for the conditions below. Talk to your doctor about which ones apply to you and when and how often you should be tested.

Red, Red Wine

Obesity: Have your body mass index (BMI) calculated to screen for obesity. (BMI is a measure of body fat based on height and weight.) You can also find your own BMI with the BMI calculator from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute at www.nhlbisupport.com/bmi/.

The evidence is in. For years scientific research has supported the claim that red wine, in moderation, improves overall heart health. Now, thanks to a new study conducted this summer, women can raise their stemware for a toast to red wine as it’s now being looked at as a potential anti-breast cancer agent as well.

Breast Cancer: Have a mammogram every one to two years, starting at age 40.

A team from the University of Nebraska has looked at the red wine chemical resveratrol and found positive results pointing toward red wine as a possible way for women to stave off breast cancer. The report, published in the July 2008 issue of Cancer Prevention Research, found that resveratrol suppresses the metabolism of estrogen, which in turn protects cells from becoming cancerous. By making estrogen inactive, the study finds, resveratrol may decrease the associated risk of breast cancer.

Cervical Cancer: Have a Pap smear every one to three years if you: • Have ever been sexually active.

• Are between the ages of 21 and 65.

High Cholesterol: Have your cholesterol checked regularly starting at age 45. If you are younger than 45, talk to your doctor about whether to have your cholesterol checked if: • You have diabetes.

• You have high blood pressure.

• Heart disease runs in your family.

• You smoke.

High Blood Pressure: Have your blood pressure checked at least every two years. High blood pressure is 140/90 or higher.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning – The Silent Killer Carbon monoxide (CO) is the number one cause of poisoning deaths in the United States.

According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, there are approximately 2,100 unintentional deaths from carbon monoxide (CO) every year in the United States and the use of CO Alarms could potentially prevent many of these fatalities. In addition, more than 10,000 CO injuries occur annually from this colorless, odorless and tasteless poison.

Mild exposure can cause fatigue, light headache, flulike symptoms, nausea and vomiting. Medium-exposure symptoms can intensify to include elevated heart rate, severe throbbing headache, drowsiness, and confusion or disorientation.

Carbon monoxide is produced from the incomplete combustion of wood and fossil fuels such as oil, natural gas, charcoal, kerosene and gasoline. Unfortunately, carbon monoxide has become a very real threat within our own homes, since it can accumulate when everyday appliances like water heaters, furnaces, ranges, ovens, clothes dryers and space heaters don’t work the way they’re supposed to. But malfunctioning appliances aren’t the only culprits for increased CO levels around the house: Poor ventilation can also cause buildups of the poisonous gas if chimney flues or exhaust vents become blocked; grills, wood-burning stoves or fireplaces aren’t properly vented; or a vehicle is left running inside a garage.

Carbon monoxide poisoning prevents vital oxygen from entering the bloodstream. Depending on the level and length of exposure, carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms can vary. Mild exposure can cause fatigue, light headache, flu-like symptoms, nausea and vomiting. Medium-exposure symptoms can intensify to include elevated heart rate, severe throbbing headache, drowsiness, and confusion or disorientation. The most severe symptoms, associated with the highest levels of carbon monoxide exposure, are unconsciousness, convulsions and failure of the heart and lungs, which can ultimately result in brain damage and death.

If you suspect that either you or someone you’re with is suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning, promptly move yourself or the other individual outdoors, which is the safest option, or at very least into a well-ventilated area. As soon as you’re breathing fresh air, call 9-1-1.

To monitor the CO levels in your home, consider installing a carbon monoxide detector. These small devices, available at hardware stores, plug into your wall and let you know if CO levels are too high.

Colorectal Cancer: Have a test for colorectal cancer starting at age 50. Your doctor can help you decide which test is right for you. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, you may need to be screened earlier.

Diabetes: Have a test for diabetes if you have high blood pressure or high cholesterol.

Depression: Your emotional health is as important as your physical health. If you have felt “down,” sad, or hopeless over the last two weeks or have felt little interest or pleasure in doing things, you may be depressed.

Talk to your doctor about being screened for depression.

Osteoporosis (Thinning of the Bones): Have a bone density test beginning at age 65 to screen for osteoporosis. If you are between the ages of 60 and 64 and weigh 154 lbs. or less, talk to your doctor about being tested.

Chlamydia and Other Sexually Transmitted Infections: Have a test for chlamydia if you are 25 or younger and sexually active. If you are older, talk to your doctor about being tested. Also ask whether you should be tested for other sexually transmitted diseases.

HIV: Have a test to screen for HIV infection if you: • Have had unprotected sex with multiple partners.

• Are pregnant.

• Have used or now use injection drugs.

• Exchange sex for money or drugs or have sex partners who do.

• Have past or present sex partners who are HIVinfected, are bisexual or use injection drugs.

• Are being treated for sexually transmitted diseases.

• Had a blood transfusion between 1978 and 1985.

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008

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from Cascade Winery

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Blueberry Glaze and Fruit Chutney for Ham or Turkey 1 bottle Cascade Winery Blueberry Wine 2 shallots, minced 1 cup light brown sugar 2 medium Gala apples, diced 2 medium peaches, diced 2 pears, diced 2 plums, diced 1 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen), divided 1 teaspoon butter

o here you are again. It’s the holidays and you want to assemble a meal that will wow your guests as you celebrate the season.

But who has time to put together a gorgeous, tasty holiday meal without spending a week in the kitchen on prep work?

Try cooking with fruit wine. It’s an easy way to increase flavor while decreasing effort. Fruit wine adds a subtle sweetness and richness to every course, from appetizer to side dish right through to entrée.

The following recipes feature several fruit wines that are chock-full of luscious Michigan fruit. The Crab Balls with Peach Dipping Sauce is an elegant yet easy appetizer that relies on peach wine for a twist of fresh flavor. As a treat for the cook, mix up a glass of your leftover peach wine with some club soda for a delightfully refreshing spritzer to jazz up your cooking spree.

In a new twist on baked apples, we combine orange spiced mead with mascarpone cheese filling. This side dish looks as good as it tastes, with the delicious combination of fruit flavors and light cheese filling.

Of course, the holidays would not be complete without a ham or turkey.

But what original ideas are left for these two stalwarts of the holiday table? How about a blueberry wine glaze and fruit chutney? This simple yet innovative flavor combination will be the hit of your table.

Now that you have most of your holiday meal planned, we invite you to open that bottle of wine a little bit early, and celebrate your upcoming culinary success!

Pour blueberry wine into a large sauce pan or stock pot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to simmer. When the wine has reduced by half, add the minced shallot and brown sugar. Stir until the brown sugar is completely dissolved.

Stir in the diced apples, peaches, plums, pears and half of the blueberries. Simmer until the fruit is soft. Add remaining blueberries and cook for two more minutes.

Remove from heat and strain liquid into a small bowl. This liquid is the glaze.

Put 1/4 cup of the liquid back into the fruit and return both to the pan.

Add 1 teaspoon of butter to the mixture and heat until butter is melted. This is the chutney topping.

Serve glaze and chutney with turkey or ham.

For Turkey: Once your turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165º F, raise oven temperature to 400º F. Baste the bird with the blueberry liquid and bake for 10 more minutes. Remove bird from oven. Tent with foil and allow it to rest for ten minutes.

Serve with chutney.

For Ham: Once the ham reaches an internal temperature of 145ºF, pour the blueberry glaze evenly over the ham and bake for an additional 20 minutes.

Remove from oven. Tent with foil and allow it to rest for ten minutes.

Serve with chutney.

Cascade Winery of Grand Rapids is pleased to create, bottle and sell the award-winning Michigan fruit wines featured in these recipes. Stop by the winery to taste the wines, find new recipes, and discover why Grand Rapids wine is well worth savoring all year long. You can also find these recipes and more at their Web site, www.cascadewinery.biz. Cascade Winery is located at 4665 Broadmoor, between M-6 and 44th St. in Kentwood, Mich.

Recipes and photos: Courtesy of Jeff Hage, Green Frog Photo. www.greenfrogphoto.com.

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008

Crab Balls with Peach Dipping Sauce Crab Balls Yield: 20 crab balls 2 1/4 1/4 1 1 4 1/2 1/4 10 6 1 1 2

teaspoons olive oil cup finely diced green pepper cup finely diced red pepper clove garlic, crushed shallot, finely minced tablespoons Cascade Winery Peach Wine (divided) teaspoon sea salt teaspoon coarse ground black pepper ounces canned crab, drained and picked over to remove shells ounces imitation crab, chopped cup shredded, sweetened flaked coconut (divided) cup of Panko bread crumbs (divided) eggs, well beaten

Preheat oven to 350°. Saute green pepper, red pepper, garlic and shallot in olive oil. Saute for one minute; add 2 tablespoons peach wine and cook until tender. Place in a mixing bowl and stir in sea salt.

Add remaining 2 tablespoons peach wine and coarse ground black pepper. Combine imitation and canned crab with sautéed green and red pepper mixture.

Stir in 3/4 cup coconut. Stir in 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs. Add beaten eggs to mixture; mix well.

Press mixture firmly into one-inch balls, squeezing out excess liquid. Roll balls in remaining 1/2 cup of Panko breadcrumbs. Place balls on cookie sheet line lined with parchment paper and sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup coconut. Bake at 350° for 20 minutes or until the coconut is lightly browned and crispy.

Baked Apples with Mascarpone and Mead Glaze Serves eight 8 2 1/2 1/2 2 1 1

Gala apples tablespoons lemon juice teaspoon nutmeg teaspoon ground cinnamon tablespoons brown sugar cup Cascade Winery Orange Spiced Mead cup water

1/2 teaspoon sea salt 4 tablespoons Cascade Winery Orange Spiced Mead 17.6 ounces mascarpone cheese 3/4 cup toasted slivered almonds (divided) In a mixing bowl combine nutmeg, vanilla, sugar and salt. Add mead; mix well. Add mascarpone cheese and 1/2 cup toasted slivered almonds. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Preheat oven to 375°. Remove top one inch of apple, reserve. Core the apple without penetrating the bottom. Brush cut surface of apples with lemon juice.

Place apples in oven-safe baking dish, cut-side up.

Mead Glaze

Combine nutmeg, cinnamon and brown sugar in a small bowl. Sprinkle over apples. Replace apple tops.

Pour Mead and water into the bottom of the baking dish. Bake at 375° for 45 minutes.

Place Mead in heavy saucepan and bring to a boil.

Then simmer until volume is reduced by half. Add brown sugar and butter. Simmer until butter is melted and sugar is dissolved, stirring frequently.

Mascarpone with Almonds

To Serve

Serve with Peach Dipping Sauce.

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon vanilla 1 teaspoon super fine sugar

2 cups Mead 2 tablespoon brown sugar 3 tablespoon butter

Spoon 1/4 cup of the mascarpone mixture into each apple. Drizzle with Mead glaze. Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup almonds and serve.

Peach Dipping Sauce Makes 2 cups 2 cups Cascade Winery Peach Wine, plus 2 tablespoons 1/2 cup cream cheese 1/2 cup peach preserves 2 tablespoons flour Pour 2 cups of peach wine into saucepan; bring to a boil, then simmer until the liquid is reduced by approximately half. Stir in cream cheese and peach preserves until fully dissolved. In a small bowl, combine flour and 2 tablespoons peach wine. Pour into wine mixture and bring to a boil. Simmer until liquid is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat, allow to cool.

Note: Dipping Sauce also goes well with cheese and raw vegetables.

Baked Apples with Mascarpone and Mead Glaze

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008

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for a Wonderful Holiday from Everyone at Women’s Lifestyle 34

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008

35

Calendar events

of

It’s easy to get listed in our Events Calendar. Our deadline is the 10th of the month prior to publication.

Email us at: wlskazoo@provide.net Please type Calendar in the subject line. Or you may mail your info to P.O. Box 2284, Portage MI 49081-2284 December 1-February 8, 2009 Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Spared from the Storm: Masterworks from the New Orleans Museum of Art. See 89 treasures of American and European art, spanning 300 years of art history, from such masters as Mary Cassatt, Joseph Cornell, Edgar Degas, Wassily Kandinsky, Rene Magritte, Joan Miró, Claude Monet, Pablo Picasso, Jackson Pollock, Auguste Rodin, John Singer Sargent, Marie-LouiseElisabeth Vigée-Lebrun (the official painter to Marie Antoinette) and more! Tues. - Sat. 10 am - 5 pm, Sunday noon-5. $10 general admission, $8 seniors & students. $5 for KIA members. 269-349-7775. www. kiarts.org.

December 1-December3 New Vic Theatre “At This Special Time”, the 42nd Annual New Vic Theatre Christmas Concerts. 8 pm. $10. 269-3813328. www.newvictheatre.org.

December 2 Holy Family Chapel at Nazareth “Christmas at Nazareth”. The Kalamazoo Singers, under the direction of Thomas Kasdorf will present a holiday concert, featuring performances of Benjamin Britten’s Ceremony of Carols, John Rutter’s Brother Heinrich’s Christmas and other traditional Christmas carols. 7:30 pm. Adults $18, Seniors $15, Students $5.00. 269-373-1769. www. kalamazoosingers.org.

December 2 W.K. Kellogg Manor House Dickens Tea. Join us for an elegant and relaxing afternoon of tea, sandwiches, scones and other delicious tea treats. Take in the picturesque view of Gull Lake while seated in the Manor House living room at tables set with vintage china and silver. After the tea and a short program, a tour of the Manor House is offered. 2 pm. Registration required. Adults $20, Children (ages 2 to 12) $12.

269-671-2400. www.kbs.msu.edu/manorhouse.

December 2 & 3 Kalamazoo County Expo Center & Fairground, Room E Kalamazoo Indoor Flea Market, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 7 am- 2 pm. Many area vendors are featured in this popular event. 269-383-8761.

December 3 W.K. Kellogg Manor House Nutcracker Tea. Join us for an elegant and relaxing afternoon of tea, sandwiches, scones and other delicious tea treats. Take in the picturesque view of Gull Lake while seated in the Manor House living room at tables set with vintage china and silver.

After the tea and a short program, a tour of the Manor House is offered. 2 pm. Reservation required. $20 Adults, $12 Children ages 2 to 12. 269-6712400. www.kbs.msu.edu.manorhouse.

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December 3 Deep Lake Shamanic Study Group. Light Warrior Clan will gather from 6-10 pm for a community potluck and teaching. Please RSVP to Mlapearl@aol.com or call 269.966.3116.

December 3 Kalamazoo Center for the Healing Arts Grief Recovery Workshop. Grief is the normal, natural emotional reaction to a significant loss of any kind, but our society doesn’t prepare us well for loss. This three-hour seminar examines why you are in pain and what actions and tools are needed to move forward. 6-9 pm. $25. Please call 269-373-0910 to register or go to www.kcha.com.

December 3, 10 & 17 Radisson Hotel Downtown Kalamazoo BNI:Boiling Waters Chapter would like to invite you to join them for breakfast and to help build your business contacts. We meet at the Sol Cafe in the Radisson Hotel Downtown Kalamazoo. Meeting starts at 7AM,but join us @6:45 AM for meet and greet and breakfast. The meeting and Breakfast are FREE and you will meet many area business people interested in helping you become more successful. Phone 372-0110 with questions or pam@ dowhome.net December 4 Kalamazoo Civic Auditorium Willy Wonka. Everybody’s favorite candy man is coming to the Civic just in time for the holidays.

This confectioner’s delight is a brand-new state adaptation of the magical film that has entertained children of all ages for over 30 years. 7:30 pm. 269343-1313. www.kazoocivic.com.

December 4 Kalamazoo Valley Museum Music at the Museum: Jim Cummings Band. The Kalamazoo Valley Museum is excited to announce the return of The Jim Cummings Band to the Museum. At the core of most of the music is a funk/ blues feel, but it can’t be limited just one genre. Join us for an entertaining evening which will include work from their latest album, “Basically”. 7:30 pm. $5 per person. 269-373-7990. www.kalamazoomuseum.org.

December 4 W.K. Kellogg Manor House “Deck the Halls” Specialty Dinner. Enjoy a dinner set in the living room of the Manor House, dinner will consist of a multi course meal prepared by our chef and served by our professional banquet staff. 6:30 pm. Reservations required. $40.00. 269-671-2400. www.kbs.msu.edu/manorhouse.

December 4-6 The University Theatre, Gilmore Theatre Complex “Late Night Broadway”. A classy cabaret evening of New York show tunes with a special Broadway guest star. 9 pm. $20, $15 Seniors, $5 Student. 269387-3227. www.wmich.edu/theatre.

December 5 & 6 Kalamazoo County Expo Center & Fairground, Room E Holiday Greens Sale. 55th Annual event featuring fresh arrangements, centerpieces and unique custom designs. Fri. 9 am - 8 pm, Sat. 9 am - 5 pm. Free. www.kalgardencouncil.org.

Greater Kalamazoo

December 5 & 6 Passiflora Antiquities & Curiosities 11 am- 7pm 2nd annual Christmas Open House Enjoy festive refreshments while browsing our holiday selections of home decor and gifts, also be sure to check out our unique baby items. 4700 West D. Ave. ¼ Mile East of 131 December 5 Miller Auditorium “Star of Wonder” with Doug LeBrecque. The Kalamazoo Concert Band. 8 pm. 269-806-6597. www.kalamazooconcertband.org.

December 6 First Presbyterian Church, 321 W. South St. “A Choral Christmas”. University Chorale, Cantus Femina, and Collegiate Singers. 4 & 7:30 pm. $10 (Students, $5). 269-387-2300. www.wmich.edu/music.

December 6 W.K. Kellogg Manor House Breakfast with Mrs. Santa in the W.K. Kellogg Manor House living room. 9-11 am. Reservations required. $16 Children, $24 Adults. 269-671-2416. www.kbs.msu.edu/manorhouse.

December 6 City Hall Atrium, 241 South Street Santa’s Workshop. Make this a family tradition and create your own holiday decorations and gifts at Santa’s Workshop. 11 am-2pm. $5 per person per session. 269-337-8191. www.kalamazoocity.org.

December 6 W. K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary Winter Birds and Holiday Treats. Come and learn about the winter birds in your backyard. Learn how to identify the different species and what they eat during the winter months. Make a special treat to take home and hang outside, then watch and see who comes to visit. 1-2:30 pm. Sanctuary members: $3 Adults, $1 for children. Non-members: $5 Adults, $3 Children. 269-671-2510. www.kbs.msu.edu.

December 6 Miller Auditorium Ruben Studdard starring in “Ain’t Misbehavin’”, the Fats Waller Broadway Musical. Also starring Frenchie. 30th Anniversary Tour of the 1978 Tony Award®-winning Best Musical AIN’T MISBEHAVIN’ starring 2003 American Idol Winner Ruben Studdard and Frenchie Davis, 2003 American Idol contestant and star of RENT on Broadway. The outrageously prodigious comic and musical soul of 1930’s Harlem is showcased in this rollicking, swinging, finger-snapping revue that is still considered one of Broadway’s most well-crafted shows of all time. 3 pm & 8 pm. $50 & 25. 269-387-2300. www. millerauditorium.com.

December 6 Transformations Center ”Eliminating Self-Defeating Behaviors”. The winter holidays are times of celebration frequently accompanied with great stress. This one day program is an entertaining, insightful, humorous and moving experience through the inception, maintenance and elimination of commonly practiced self-defeating behaviors. Participants will leave the program with 12 very practical techniques to replace selfdefeating behavior patterns with life-generating behaviors and attitudes. With Gregory Boothroyd, Ph.D. (CAAC, LPC, author, lecturer, and addictions counselor). 9:00 am - 4:30 pm. $90.00. Student

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008

Discount: $55.00 with one regular price admission.

Price includes lunch. www.transformationscenter.org.

December 7 Fetzer Center at Western Michigan University Santa Luncheon. Santa has scheduled a special visit at the FETZER CENTER. Enjoy a festive buffet luncheon with your family and watch your little ones as they have their personal visit with Santa.

Each child will be able to give their list to Santa and in return will receive a special gift. Space is limited!

Reserve your table online, by calling (269) 387-3232, or by visiting the Fetzer Center today! * Doors open at 11:30 a.m. The last seating will be at 1:30 p.m. $13.50 Adults, $8 children 3-12 yrs. 2 yrs and under free. www.wmich.edu/fetzer.

December 7 Kalamazoo College Light Fine Arts Center KSO – “The World of ...Rachmaninoff”. This concert presents a variety of musical works plus commentary on the artistic and cultural realities of the particular time and place in which Russian composer Sergei Rachmaninoff worked. 3 pm. $25, Students $8. 269-387-2300. www.KalamazooSymphony.com.

December 7 DeLano Homestead, Kalamazoo Nature Center “Holidays at the Homestead”. Bring your family to the beautifully decorated DeLano Homestead to step back in time. The DeLano House is celebrating its 150th birthday this year! Join in the celebration as you explore the 1858 farmhouse and enjoy holiday traditions such as decorating trees, creating crackers, and making gingerbread cookies. Listen to acoustic holiday music while relaxing in the parlor. Take a stroll to the 1830s log cabin replica to glimpse life during a Michigan winter in the wilderness. Enjoy a horse-drawn wagon ride (weather permitting) and afterwards warm up with warm cider and a cookie. Learn about the natural products used by spinners, weavers, and blacksmiths while enjoying demonstrations. Sunday 1-4 pm.

Wagon rides $1/person, in addition to regular KNC admission. 269-381-1574. www.naturecenter.org.

December 7 Quilting Passions, 214 N. Jefferson, Hastings.

The GFWC-Hastings Women’s Club and the Thornapple Garden Club of Hastings are hosting the third annual “Deck the Homes with Quilts” home tour in Hastings. Six homes will be on tour each decorated in Christmas spirit and displaying quilts. A quilt turning will take place at one home every hour as the history of the quilts and quilters are given. Quilting Passions, a quilt shop at 214 N. Jefferson in Hastings will be the refreshment and ticket center for the day of tour where a quilt display will be exhibited. Tickets$10 per person the day of the tour at Quilting Passions. Children under ten are free and every child must be accompanied by an adult with no strollers. Ticket sales benefit the scholarship programs of both clubs. Contact Barb Benner at 269-945-2986 and Donna Brown at 269-948-2790.

December 7 Miller Auditorium Annual Holiday Concert: “Brass for the Holiday”. 3 pm. Free admission. 269-387-4667. www.wmich.edu/music.

December 8 Kalamazoo Center for the Healing Arts “Massage as a Profession” Workshop. This session is a great opportunity to sit with us and talk about

the rewards and realities of our industry. 6 pm.

Please call 269-373-0910 to register or go to www. kcha.com.

of Calhoun counties. If you are interested in hosting a DoP team meeting in your county, Call 269978-6803. www.ThePeaceAlliance.org

December 9 Plainwell Counseling Center “Integrative Breathwork”, a musical journey for insight, emotional healing & creativity. 7 pm - 9 pm.

319 Park St., Plainwell. $30. Pre-registration (269) 388-2988 or adamczassociates.com.

December 12-14 Kalamazoo County Expo Center & Fairground, Hazel Gray Bldg.

K-9 Fanciers Dog Show. U.K.C. event featuring obedience, conformation and junior showmanship.

Fri. 4:30 pm, Sat. & Sun. 8:30 am. Admission is free.

269-664-5157. www.k9fanciers.com.

December 9 W.K. Kellogg Manor House Poinsettia Tea. Join us for an elegant and relaxing afternoon of tea, sandwiches, scones and other delicious tea treats. Take in the picturesque view of Gull Lake while seated in the Manor House living room at tables set with vintage china and silver.

After the tea and a short program, a tour of the Manor House is offered. 2 pm. Reservation required. $20 Adults, $12 Children ages 2 to 12. 269-6712400. www.kbs.msu.edu.manorhouse.

December 10 W.K. Kellogg Manor House Holiday Spice Tea. Join us for an elegant and relaxing afternoon of tea, sandwiches, scones and other delicious tea treats. Take in the picturesque view of Gull Lake while seated in the Manor House living room at tables set with vintage china and silver. After the tea and a short program, a tour of the Manor House is offered. 2 pm. Reservations required. $20 Adults, $12 Children ages 2 to 12.

269-671-2400. www.kbs.msu.edu/manorhouse.

December 10 Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Kalamazoo Art League Lecture: “The Glitter and the Gold: American Jewelry” with Ulysses Grant Dietz. Ulysses Grant Dietz, the curator of American decorative arts at the Newark Museum, will discuss the many ways the design, craftsmanship and history of jewelry give it a prominent position in the field of American decorative arts. The production of jewelry was one of the most significant industries in 19th-century America. As fine furniture, ceramics, glass objects and silver became important symbols of success and status, so did the possession of jewelry. Samples of artistically designed jewelry will be available. 10 am. 269-349-7775. www.kiarts.org.

December 11 Miller Auditorium Jim Brickman Holiday Tour. For over a decade, Jim Brickman1s holiday concerts have been musical homecomings for loyal fans of the dynamic composer, recording artist, radio personality and concert headliner. And every year, new fans discover the magic of Brickman’s piano artistry and his ability to capture the spirit of the season. 7:30 pm. $39.75$75. 269-387-2300. www.millerauditorium.com.

December 11 W.K. Kellogg Manor House Winter Wonderland Specialty Dinner. Enjoy a dinner set in the living room of the Manor House, dinner will consist of a multi course meal prepared by our chef and served by our professional banquet staff. 6:30 pm. $40. Reservations required. 269-6712400. www.kbs.msu.edu/manorhouse.

December 11 Kalamazoo Valley Museum “A Christmas Story”. Humorist Jean Sheperd’s “American Christmas” is brought vividly to life in this nostalgic and witty remembrance of a time gone by. Filled with humor, warmth, and dozens of captivating moments. The movie’s undeniable charm makes it an all-time favorite for young and old alike. 1990 (PG). 7:30 pm. $3 per person. 269373-7990. www.kalamazoomuseum.org.

December 11 Skyridge Church of the Brethren 394 S Drake Rd. The SW MI Campaign for the Dept. of Peace (DoP), representing The Peace Alliance, invites residents & college students to attend the team meeting held the 2nd Thursday of each month. Teams are designed to develop grassroots support for House Bill (H.R. 808), to establish a U.S. Cabinet-level Department of Peace. Time: 6:30 p.m. The 6th Congressional District team is made up of concerned citizens from SW MI counties including all of Berrien, Cass, St. Joseph, Van Buren and Kalamazoo counties, most of Allegan and part

December 12 Unwindings “Integrative Breathwork”, a musical journey for insight, emotional healing & creativity. 7 pm - 9 pm. 5464 Holiday Terrace, Kalamazoo $30. Preregistration (269) 388-2988 or www.adamczassociates.com.

December 12 Wings Stadium Kalamazoo Wings vs. Flint. 7:30 pm.

269-345-5101. www.kwings.com.

December 13 Kalamazoo Center for the Healing Arts “Polarity II”. Polarity Therapy is the science of balancing the subtle energy currents in our bodies to promote relaxation and healing. Polarity I is a prerequisite for this class. 9 am. - 2:30 pm. $60.

December 13 State Theatre The Big “E” Christmas Spectacular. Our favorite holiday tradition, The Big E, is back to celebrate the season again this year with The TCE Band, the gorgeous Sweet Emotions, his entourage of bodyguards, and plenty of scarves! The Big E is a truly fantastic Elvis tribute that, whether you’re a big Elvis fan or not, gets everyone in the mood for Christmas! 8 pm. $28. 269-345-6500. www.kazoostate.com.

December 13 Smartshop Art Gallery Smartshop Artist’s Tea. Smartshop Artist’s Tea Series presents Holly Fisher. Spend some time with the artist and her art! Please join us for a social afternoon tea with goodies, a short presentation by the artist, and a question/answer session. 3-5 pm.

Donation. 269-345-7285. www.smartshopkalamazoo.com.

December 13 Deep Lake Sweat Lodge Ceremony. Light Warrior Clan will gather from 10- 4pm for shamanic teaching, sweat lodge and community potluck. Registration is required at mlapearl@aol.com or 269.966.3116.

December 13 Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Kalamazoo Dance Chapter #2038 Ballroom, swing, Latin & country dance 7 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.

Singles, couples, college students & dancers of all skill levels are welcome. Cost: $13 for adults, $8 for students. (college ID required). Dance begins with a one-hour dance lesson. Learn the Hustle at 7 p.m.

Info @ www.KalamazooDance.org e-mail at news@ KalamazooDance.org or call (269)998-7446.

December 13 Passiflora Antiquities & Curiosities 4pm -8pm Men’s Shopping Night - Enjoy complimentary cigars, hors de ouvres and gift wrapping services. 4700 West D. Ave. ¼ Mile East of 131 December 14 W.K. Kellogg Manor House Mistletoe Tea. Join us for an elegant and relaxing afternoon of tea, sandwiches, scones and other delicious t ea treats. After the tea and a short program, a tour of the Manor House is offered. 2 pm.

Reservations required. $20 Adults, $12 Children ages 2 to 12. 269-671-2400. www.kbs.msu.edu/ manorhouse.

December 14 Stetson Chapel, Kalamazoo College BachFest Christmas. The Kalamazoo Bach Festival Chorus, directed by Jim Turner, will present festive music of the season. 4 pm. $20/18/14

reserved by row; students $5; children under 12 free. 269-337-7407. www.kzoo.edu/bach.

December 14 Kalamazoo County Expo Center & Fairground, Room A Kalamazoo Record & C-D Expo. Many area dealers with interesting music related collectibles.

11 am-5 pm. Free admission. 574-329-1483.

December 15 Richland Area Community Center Women in Networking Meeting (W-I-N) 6:00-8:00 p.m. 9400 East CD Ave. Networking, beverages & light buffet. Costs $8 or $12 for you & your guest (cash please). A casual, informal, fun group & all are welcome! No charge for presenters. No membership fees. RSVP by email to turluck@comcast. net by 3:00 p.m.,Thur. Dec. 11 to attend.

December 16 W.K. Kellogg Manor House Holly and Ivy Tea. Join us for an elegant and relaxing afternoon of tea, sandwiches, scones and other delicious tea treats. Take in the picturesque view of Gull Lake while seated in the Manor House living room at tables set with vintage china and silver. 2 pm. Reservations required. $20 Adults, $12 Children ages 2 to 12. 269-671-2400. www.kbs.msu.edu/manorhouse.

December 16 Richland Area Community Center December meeting of the Richland Area Business Assoc. Fresh coffee will be served. Featured presenter: Sherral Blood, Pure Nutrition on the Go!, to present “We Are What We Eat!” 7:30 am December 17 W.K. Kellogg Manor House Christmas Carol Specialty Dinner. Enjoy a dinner set in the living room of the Manor House, dinner will consist of a multi course meal prepared by our chef and served by our professional banquet staff. 6:30 pm. Reservations required. $40. 269671-2400. www.kbs.msu.edu/manorhouse.

December 18 W.K. Kellogg Manor House Comfort and Joy Specialty Dinner. Enjoy a dinner set in the living room of the Manor House, dinner will consist of a multi course meal prepared by our chef and served by our professional banquet staff. 6:30 pm. Reservations required. $40. 269671-2400. www.kbs.msu.edu/manorhouse.

December 19, 20, 21, 26, 27 & 28 New Vic Theatre ”A Christmas Carol”. The New Vic’s 29th Annual Production Of Ted Kistler’s critically acclaimed adaptation of Charles Dickens’ immortal “A Christmas Carol”. Fri. 8:30pm; Sat. 2pm & 8:30pm; Sun. 2pm. $23. 269-381-3328. www.newvictheatre.org.

December 19 & 20 Whole Art Theater, 246 N. Kalamazoo Mall “Alternative Yule Source”. Crawlspace Eviction performs live improv and sketch comedy. 8 pm. $7 students, $10 general. 269-599-7390. www. crawlspaceeviction.com.

December 19 Wings Stadium Kalamazoo Wings vs. Flint. 7:30 pm. 269-3455101. www.kwings.com.

December 20 Kalamazoo County Expo Center & Fairground, Room A Kalamazoo Reptile & Exotic Animal Show.

Vendors with many exotic animals to buy, sell or trade. 10 am-3 pm. $4 Adults, $2 Children 6-10, Under 6 free. 269-779-9851. www.

KalamazooReptileShow.com.

December 20 Wings Stadium Kalamazoo Wings vs. Bloomington. 7:30 pm. 269345-5101. www.kwings.com.

December 21 W.K. Kellogg Manor House W.K. Kellogg Manor Holiday Walk. Guests will step back in time as volunteers share the Manor’s rich 80-year history. The Manor glows with holiday lights creating a wonderful experience. The informative tour ends in the Billiard Room with hot-spiced tea and holiday treats. Proceeds from the Holiday Walk are dedicated to the restoration of our Flemish Tapestries which are part of the original furnishings and each is estimated to be about 400 years old. 12 to 5 pm, last tour begins at 4 pm. $5 adults, $4 seniors and students ages 6 to 18, ages 6 and under free. 269-671-2416. www. kbs.msu.edu/manorhouse.

December 26, 27 & 28 New Vic Theatre “A Christmas Carol”. The New Vic’s 29th Annual Production Of Ted Kistler’s critically acclaimed adaptation of Charles Dickens’ immortal “A Christmas Carol”. Fri. 8:30pm; Sat. 2pm & 8:30pm; Sun. 2pm. $23. 269-381-3328. www.newvictheatre.org.

December 28 W.K. Kellogg Manor House Holiday Sunday Brunch. Enjoy a holiday brunch at historic W.K. Kellogg Manor House. 11 am or 1 pm. $18.95 for adults, $17.95 for seniors, $9.95 for children ages 5 to 12, ages 4 and younger are free. 269-671-2400. www.kbs.msu.edu/manorhouse.

December 29 & 30 Kalamazoo Institute of Arts : Kirk Newman Art School Winter Break Children’s Workshop: Painting and Printmaking.9 a.m.-4 p.m. (or morning or afternoon only). Students will be introduced to works of art from the KIA’s current exhibitions and the permanent collection. These artworks will inspire the creation of a painting and a print. All materials are provided. Students should bring only their imagination and creativity! $115 (discount for KIA members).

December 29-January 2 Kalamazoo Valley Museum Toylishous: Holiday Hands-on Happenings. Come explore our traveling exhibit, Kids Stuff: Great Toys from Our Childhood, then create a variety of toys and games to play with. Dec. 29: Optical Illusions (B) Make tops, 3D glasses, tangrams, and more. Brownies can earn their Colors and Shapes try-it today. 1 - 4 pm. Free admission. 269-3737990. www.kalamazoomuseum.org.

December 31 Bronson Park & Various Locations Downtown New Year’s Fest 2008. New Year’s Fest provides 28 different entertainers who perform inside 9 buildings surrounding Bronson Park. Admission is through a button that allows entry to all venues including a heated tent. Activities in Bronson Park, including the fireworks, sponsored by AG Edwards, are free. 5:30 pm - 12:00 am. $5, Day of event $8. 269-388-2830. www.newyearsfest.com.

December 31 Kalamazoo Institute of Arts New Year’s Eve at the KIA. Food, drink, live music and dancing! 8 pm - 1 am. $79 per person. 269349-7775. www.kianewyears.com.

December 31 State Theatre Greensky Bluegrass NYE 2008. This year will be Greensky’s 3rd annual NYE Celebration with special guests Steppin’ In It, Seth Bernard & Daisy May. It’s becoming a favorite holiday tradition here in Kalamazoo, and it keeps getting bigger and better every year. 7:30 pm. $23 in advance, $25 day of show. 269-345-6500. www. kazoostate.com.

December 31 Wings Stadium Kalamazoo Wings vs. Muskegon. New Year’s Eve Bash. 7:30 pm. 269-345-5101. www.kwings.com.

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008

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Gifts for Young Readers and Listeners

Reader’s Lounge

A is for Abraham, A Jewish Family Alphabet Written by Richard Michelson Illustrated by Ron Mazellan Sleeping Bear Press, 2008, $17.95

By Alexandra Fix

Gift Ideas MaryJane’s Outpost,

Note by Note,

Unleashing Your Inner Wild

By MaryJane Butters Clarkson Potter, 2008, $30

A Celebration of the Piano Lesson

By Tricia Tunstall Simon & Schuster, 2008, $24

If someone on your gift list has the tiniest inkling to explore the outdoors, they’ll have camping fever by the time they finish perusing this book.

From sleeping under the stars to glamping (glamour camping), from picnics to ironing board smorgasbords, from tree swings to grass whistles, ideas abound.

Fishing tips, handmade willow tables, a unique 7-day backpacking meal plan, outdoor rituals, dandelion wine-making and wild edibles are all included. This book would also be a beautiful gift for a friend who loves vintage treasures. MaryJane’s 1950s childhood colors the book with nostalgic photos and memorabilia, including aprons, handstitched pieces and classic dishware you’ll recognize from great-grandmother’s kitchen.

Note by Note is a glorious gift for anyone who has taught, taken or considered piano lessons. Tricia Tunstall shares the ups and downs of piano lessons for the teacher as well as the student. Worried starts, agitated frustrations, quiet joys and eureka moments are all chronicled in this lyrical scattering of reflections by one caring instructor. The chapter on recitals is a masterpiece and if you’ve ever participated in that annual spring ritual, you can’t help but relate to these lines: “The idea of a recital tends to be exciting in January, worrisome in April, and terrifying in June.” How quickly your piano victories and catastrophes will return to memory. If you give this book to someone significant, you might want to add a gift certificate for a piano tuning, because their fingers will be called to the keyboard once again.

The Necklace,

Forward From Here,

Thirteen Women and the Experiment That Transformed Their Lives

By Cheryl Jarvis Ballantine Books, 2008, $24

Leaving Middle Age— and Other Unexpected Adventures

By Reeve Lindbergh Simon & Schuster, 2008, $24.00

The necklace is a single strand consisting of 118 diamonds, decreasing in minute gradations from the large center pair. It is a stunning extravagance.

In the words of Jonell Mclain, it was “simply exquisite and exquisitely simple.” As she gazed at the necklace in the window display, Jonell couldn’t help but lament the fact that personal luxuries are so inaccessible to most. In response, she dreamed up a time-share jewelry idea and invited women acquaintances and friends, and one surprise addition, to co-own the necklace. Wearing the diamonds rotated from woman to woman. The women of Jewelia, as they came to be called, had invested in much more than a 15.24-carat diamond piece; they had invested in each other. The gem would change their lives and their community forever. A true story, readers will find the whole premise and execution of this lovely experiment quite intriguing.

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Having reached her sixties, Reeve Lindbergh, wife, mother, children’s author and the youngest daughter of Charles and Anne Morrow Lindbergh, writes with satisfaction and appreciation about life. She knows what it takes to be a mother, a daughter, a sister and a friend and shares some beautiful insights. She visits the island where her mother wrote Gifts From the Sea and finds new inspiration for herself. This collection of essays explores the quiet moments of her life – books, birds, family, her Vermont farm – as well as the challenges she has faced, especially the diagnosis of a brain tumor and the complicated relationship with her father. With painful honesty, Lindbergh discusses the scandal that rocked her world when she found out that her father had led multiple secret lives. He had fathered seven children in three different families. Hurt and puzzled, Reeve Lindbergh comes to terms with the reality of this knowledge.

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008

A beautiful celebration of Jewish history, customs and traditions fills these pages.

With soft, inviting illustrations and light and lively rhyme, a simple alphabet story is told and the sidebars are packed with facts.

Readers will learn about everything from the meaning of Chanukah and the miracle of the Menorah to the legend of the golem to the stories of the three patriarchs: Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. The delight in observing a Sabbath day of restful joy and the power of the tradition of tikkun olam, or repairing the world, give special insight into the Jewish heart.

Heart in the Pocket Written by Laurence Bourguignon Illustrated by Valerie d’Heur Eerdmans Books, 2008, $16.50 It’s a big wide world out there and Jo-Jo is a little afraid, but it’s time for this little joey to leave the safety of his mother kangaroo’s pouch. This loving mama helps him find the tiny courage he needs to take that first leap and explore. Like any good mother though, no matter how far he roams, she will always hold his heart close. This is a wonderful read aloud for any of the little ones on your holiday gift list.

What Dogs Want for Christmas Written and Illustrated by Kandy Radzinski Sleeping Bear Press, 2008, $16.95 Playful letters to Santa, from a variety of family dogs, color the pages of this Christmas selection.

One puppy wishes for something to help him break that shoe-chewing habit. Another wants some mittens spun from Persian kittens and one just wants a loving home.

Beyond the simple whimsy of the story, these great dog sketches could surely inspire any young artists on your holiday list.

Psalms for Young Children Written by Marie-Helene Delval Illustrated by Arno Eerdmans Books for Young Readers, 2008, $16.00 “When I trust in God, it’s like being wrapped in a warm blanket.

With God on my side, I am not scared of anything—not during the day, not during the night” (Psalm 91). Bright, simple illustrations complement each of 40 psalm selections, which are paraphrased in easy language directed to young children. Delight, surprise, sadness and remorse are put into words and pictures and become lovely prayers for young children.

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PREMIER Greater Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition• December 2008