December 2013
Greater Kalamazoo
Grapes - Munch on a Bunch
E s s e n t i a l • E n l i g h t e n i n g • E n t e r t a i n i n g w w w . w o m e n s l i f e s t y l e k a z o o . c o m
Dr. Karen Betten
We wish you all the joys of the holiday season and a Happy New Year! Back row: Carter Lomax, Jr., MD; Rebekah Sharp,MD; Wendy Bauer, MD; Joseph Riethman, MD
Front row: Pamela Wadsworth, WHNP-BC; Brittany Post, WHNP-BC; Marcia Johnson, MD; Carly Davis, MD
OB-GYN P.C. 601 John St. Suite M-318 Kalamazoo, MI 49007-5383 269-345-6197 www.obgynpc.com
December 2013 Table of Contents
LIFE
Parallel Lives, Parallel Pain.. ........................... 10 A Gift with a Cause................................... 32
STYLE
Hand-Painted Holiday Luminaries.................... 9 Festive Poinsettia Piñata................................. 9 Thrifting for the Holidays............................. 23 Stocking Stuffers for Her............................. 34
GIFT GUIDE .................................. 12 & 13 LEARN
What’s the Point-settia? . . ............................... 6 100 Years Ago: Christmas 1913...................... 21 Reader’s Lounge. . ...................................... 38
FOOD & DRINK
BEAUTY
Crafting Beauty . . ......................................... 14
Tis the Seasonings Roasted Harvest Vegetables. . .................. 24 Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread.................... 24 Orange-Glazed Turkey Meatballs............. 24 Vanilla Pecan Pie.................................. 25 Pecan Cookie Balls............................... 25 Tastes from the Kitchen - Zebs. . .................. 29 Grapes Munch on a Bunch Chocolate Toffee Grapes....................... 30 White Chocolate Almond Grapes. . .......... 30 Caramel Peanut Grapes . . ........................ 30 Wines to Take the Chill Out of Winter......... 35
HEALTH
Spreading the Health................................... 19 Willpower for Women................................ 27
LOOK WHO’S TALKING
Dr. Karen Betten......................................... 16
The People Who Make It Happen... Publisher: Darlene Clifford dclifford@womenslifestylekazoo.com Editor: Erica Shier editor@womenslifestylekazoo.com Contributing Writers: Kelly Duggan, Emily L. Magyar & Heidi McCrary Sales Manager: Ruth Ann Dibert radibert@womenslifestylekazoo.com Account Executive: Brenda Murphy bmurphy@womenslifestylekazoo.com Account Executive: Pam Stowell pstowell@womenslifestylekazoo.com
Layout & Design: jr4designs, JR Harper Photography: K. Redmond Photography www.facebook.com/kredmondphotography Office Manager: Patty Clifford Contact Us: 269-350-5227 Sales Info: 269-271-1032 By Mail: Greater Kalamazoo Women’s LifeStyle, P. O. Box 2284, Portage, MI 49081-2284 By Email: info@womenslifestylekazoo.com Website: www.womenslifestylekazoo.com
COMMUNITY NEWS & HAPPENINGS Arts in Kalamazoo. . .................................... 36 Calendar. . ................................................ 37
December 2013
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From the Editor
Season’s Greetings!
As I sit here writing this I find myself marveling over the fact that we are so quickly nearing the end of 2013. I haven’t even prepared and served our Thanksgiving turkey yet, and here I am, immersed in all things holiday related. It can be a bit disconcerting, but I find that it also extends this precious season a bit for me. It gives me more time to dream, plan and savor this special time of year. In my home we have many cherished traditions, some of which my husband and I brought from our families of origin, and some of which we’ve established ourselves over the years. I am always, however, on the look-out for something new to add to the mix. Perhaps a recipe that will become a family favorite… or an activity to bring us closer together. This month’s edition is full of just such wonderful ideas. We are so excited about the content we’re bringing to you this December. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or none of the above, it’s our hope that you will find articles and features that will enhance your celebrations. Inside you will find recipes for amazing side dishes that will complement anything you decide to serve at your feast and instructions to make your own holiday-inspired crafts and gifts. You’ll also find some great gift ideas that are available at some of our wonderful local stores that help make Kalamazoo so special. If you’re a sucker for nostalgia (like me) you’ll love “100 Years Ago: Christmas 1913”…a lovely trip down the memory lane of Christmases long ago. Below, in the words of D.M. Dellinger, is what we at Women’s LifeStyle of Kalamazoo desire for our dear readers this season:
“This is my wish for you: peace of mind, prosperity through the year, happiness that multiplies, health for you and yours, fun around every corner, energy to chase your dreams, joy to fill your holidays!” Warmly,
Erica Shier
Independent businesses provide meaningful services with a personal touch. It matters to them that you are satisfied and will come back again.
Consigned Design Antiques & Home décor
Three amazing stores in one:
• Antique Mall • Designer's Showplace • Fabulous Consigned Merchandise 8639 Portage Rd, ½ mile south of Centre 269/366-4576
Browse our antique booths, designer displays and fabulous consigned merchandise.
Henderson Castle
FREE $20 gift card when you purchase a $100 gift card during December
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Limited booth rental offered when available.
269.327.3689 Has 6 established stylists available to get you ready for the holidays
up - styling
Thermafuse and Redken Products straightening
Hair Care for Entire Family
color
make up
massage therapy
Gift Certificates Available Multi Ethnicity Salon
B & B, Restaurant & Spa 100 Monroe Street • Kalamazoo • (269) 344-1827 www.hendersoncastle.com
December 2013
www.womenslifestylekazoo.com
Partners in Women’s Health P C - Gynecology
MENOPAUSE
Menopause is defined as when menstruation has ended for 1 year. The time of peri-menopause/ menopause can be very disruptive for some women. It can bring physical changes like hot flashes, night sweats and other symptoms. Menopause can be an opportunity for women to protect against major health concerns like memory issues, sexual functioning and osteoporosis. Partners in Women’s Health gynecology specialists will partner with you to develop a plan to address this phase of your life.
Our staff is looking forward To meeting your needs! Call 269-343-4609 To schedule your consult
601 JOHN ST - SUITE N-1100 KALAMAZOO, MI 49007
left to right - Linda French, CNM • James Goodspeed, MD Suzanne VanDenBrink-Webb, MD • Gregory Feldmeier, MD
WWW.PARTNERSINWOMENSHEALTH.COM December 2013
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P o e i h n t t s ’ s t e a t tia? h W
H
December is a month we as gardeners resort to Christmas lights or “electric ivy” to brighten our spirits. Fortunately with today’s selection of LED light technology, the impact on our electric bill is minimal.
Holiday lights bring the landscape back to life at a time of year when daylight is at a premium. The conundrum is whether or not LED lights give you a warm feeling. I interviewed a lady on my radio program who randomly tweeted that LED lights were cold and had all the warmth of operating room lights. Her comment was picked up by a Wall Street Journal writer who ran with the concept. For some, nothing replaces the feel of an incandescent bulb. I like the bright color and variety of today’s LED lights and they’re ideal and virtually indestructible for stringing through shrubbery and trees in the landscape. The trick is to string them on a day of reasonable weather. There is a direct correlation between the quality of your neighborhood yuletide display and the weather in which they were strung. Not everyone has the patience of Clark W. Griswold and no one should use a shotgun stapler in stringing their festive cheer. For inside the home, fresh greens, garland, Christmas trees and Poinsettias are traditional deck the hall options. No, Poinsettias are not highly poisonous or toxic as rumored, and today’s varieties are amazing both for color choice as well as their ability to hold their color bracts well beyond the holidays. Who hasn’t seen the tired lonely Poinsettia still on display in a local restaurant or bar in the month of April? They last much longer than varieties your grandma used to make you feel almost guilty pitching them in the trash in February.
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In regards to that fresh Fraser Fir or aromatic Douglas Fir Christmas tree you’ve brought in the house, water will be the key to keeping it fresh through the holidays. Make sure a fresh cut was made on the base of the tree just prior to putting it into water. If the stump or base is not freshly cut, it will callus and not draw water, similar to a straw
Poinsettias are not highly poisonous or toxic as rumored, and today’s varieties are amazing both for color choice as well as their ability to hold their color bracts well beyond the holidays. in a drink. Make sure the tree stand is kept full and refilled with fresh water as the tree uses the liquid refreshment. A good way to do that is to float
something in the bowl like a ping-pong ball or a cork where you can see the current water level at a glance. It’s a good idea to avoid displaying your fresh tree near a heat register or fireplace. Try to find a cool spot in the living area. When you shop for your tree, make sure to first take a tape measure and check the size of the area, width and height, where you hope to display the tree. Then take the tape measure with you on your shopping trip so you return with a tree proportioned to the space. Paperwhite Narcissus, Amaryllis, Holiday Cactus and Norfolk Island Pines are all easy-to-grow plants that can add festive living cheer to the office or home in the month of December. Remember to deck the halls with some live green foliage in your living space to help clean the air of toxins with nature’s oxygen manufacturing marvels we call houseplants. In December, our homes are sealed tight as we gather together for yuletide cheer. You may need some natural air scrubbers when the relatives visit to gather around hearth and home.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Rick Vuyst is CEO of Flowerland, host of the Flowerland Show on NewsRadio WOOD 1300 and 106.9 FM as well as Mr. Green Thumb on WZZM TV 13. You can find more about Rick at Flowerlands website, www.myflowerland.com.
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Independent businesses provide meaningful services with a personal touch. It matters to them that you are satisfied and will come back again.
Steve and Margaret VanderWoude, Owners 8639 Portage Rd., South of Centre 269-329-0434 • svwoude@chartermi.net Hours: M, TU, TH, F -10-6 Wed: 10-8 Sat: 10-4 • Closed Sunday
Luxury Outerwear Furs • Leathers • Cashmeres
1,200 Coats In-Stock for Men & Women in ALL Sizes! 100’s of Accessories
Hats Headbands Vests
Shawls Gloves Scarves
Handbags Ear Muffs Fur Slippers
and Leathers 1-888-979-FURS (3877) • 269-979-4101 5568 Beckley Road | Battle Creek
Mon. 10am-8pm, Tues.-Sat. 10am-5:30pm, Sun. 12pm-5pm
www.burtrumfursandleathers.com
December 2013
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Wishing our neighbors a happy holiday.
Medicine Tree COMPOUNDING PHARMACY
Specializing in Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy for Women
At Keystone, we’re proud to be a member of your community. Thank you for being a member of ours. We wish you a happy and healthy holiday season.
Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-6pm, Sat 9am-1pm Phone: (269) 668-6801 www.medicinetreepharmacy.com 56109 Village Center Circle, Mattawan, MI 49071
Plastic Surgery of Kalamazoo and Skin Care Center
Making Spirits Bright! Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery Cosmetic Facial Surgery • Facial Rejuvenation • Liposuction/Body Contouring • Breast Reconstruction Abdominal Lipectomy • Breast Augmentation • Breast Reduction • Eyelid Surgery • Laser Surgery Burn Reconstruction • Scar Revision • Skin Cancer • Botox • Collagen Injections • Restylane
Specialized Skin Care Facials • Chemical Peels • Microdermabrasion • IPL Photo Rejuvenation Laser Hair Removal • Electrolysis • Massage Therapy • Waxing • Spa Pedicures Non-Surgical Treatments for: Mature Skin • Sun Damage • Hyperpigmentation Acne. SkinCeuticals • Pro + Therapy MD • Jane Iredale Makeup
December Specials
Receive a complementary four-step hand treatment with any paid skin care service. Please mention this special when you schedule your appointment.
Over 30 Years of Combined Experience
Michael C. Nave, MD Alan S. Messinger, MD (269) 372-3000
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December 2013
7901 SOUTH 12TH STREET, SUITE 100, PORTAGE
WWW.PSKZOO.COM
FREE CONSULTATIONS
CALL TODAY: (269) 375-2672
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Holiday Crafting courtesy of Family Features
B
ring the joy and celebration of holiday traditions from around the world to your home this season.
From the quaint custom of placing hand-painted luminaries in windows throughout Ireland to the beautiful embroidery folk art found in Scandinavia, craft stores have created projects inspired by traditions from around the world to share with your loved ones.
Hand-Painted Holiday Luminaries Crafting Time: 1 to 2 hours It’s an Irish tradition to place lit candles in windows. Let this quaint holiday custom add warmth and joy to your home. Glass containers with hand-painted designs and flameless candles look welcoming in windows or on a table. Supplies and Tools: Black marker White computer paper Computer and printer Scissors Square and rectangular glass containers Tape Enamel paint: red, green and white Flat brush and detail brush Flameless or wax candles Create templates using a black marker to draw snowflakes and other decorative holiday motifs on paper. Cut the templates to fit inside the desired glass containers. Tape templates securely to the inside of glass container with design facing out. This will act as a guide when painting.
Using enamel paint colors, paint over template designs on glass surface. Create snowflakes, trees, words, deer, etc. It may take several coats of paint to attain desired coverage. Let paint dry between coats.
Festive Poinsettia Piñata Crafting Time: Weekend project On Christmas Day in Mexico, children commonly take turns hitting a star-shaped piñata to release the avalanche of toys and treats hidden inside. Your little ones and maybe even grown-ups will enjoy trying to break open this poinsettia-covered version. Supplies and Tools: Newspaper strips Water and flour paper mache mix Mylar balloon Paintbrush Mod Podge decoupage glue Red tissue streamers Hot glue gun and glue sticks Variety of floral poinsettias Scissors Ribbon Candy or toys
When finished, let the painted design dry completely. Remove templates from the inside of containers. Fill the container with flameless or wax candles to display.
Dip newspaper strips into paper mache mix. Remove excess mix to allow for quicker drying. Place strips over inflated Mylar balloon until surface is completely covered. Let dry. Repeat process for three layers. Paint a line of Mod Podge onto piñata and immediately adhere a strip of red tissue streamer over glued area. Repeat process until entire piñata is covered with tissue streamer. Add a top layer of Mod Podge over tissue streamer layer. Let dry. Glue floral poinsettias onto piñata surface. Tightly overlap flowers for best coverage. Cut ribbon to desired length for hanging. Glue end of each strip of ribbon to piñata. Cut small opening in top of piñata and fill with candy or toys. Make sure the piñata opening is at the top so candy or toys don’t fall out.
December 2013
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Parallel Lives,
Parallel Pain by Susan Harrison Wolffis
It was no secret.
She did not want to be there. The minute she walked through the door at the doctor’s office, pushing an elderly woman in a wheelchair, it was obvious to everyone who glanced in her direction. She was clearly discontent being there. You could tell by the slump of her shoulders and the way she moved her body. You could tell by the way she slammed the wheelchair into place, at the end of a long row of chairs, by the way she sat down, her back purposely turned to the old lady who—very obviously—had a form of dementia. I couldn’t tell how old the younger woman was. She could have been in her late teens, maybe young 20s. She was old enough to drive, old enough to be given the responsibility of getting the woman in the wheelchair to her doctor’s appointment. She was texting someone before she made it into her chair. “Are you Sally’s daughter?” the elder lady asked. (In the interest of privacy, I’ve changed the name.) “No,” the young woman said, barely looking up from her telephone. “You should know who I am.”
The young woman sighed. It was a sigh we’ve all let out when we are so exasperated; there are no words to express ourselves, only sounds. “You should wear your hearing aids,” she looked up, ever so briefly, then said to herself, “Oh, forget it,” and resumed texting. The old woman ran her hands through her hair, which was a little wild looking, and standing on end. “I can’t hear. It’s a horrible way to live,” she said.
“Is Sally coming?” she asked. “She said she’d get me at 9:30. Is it 9:30 yet?” Again, no response. Just texting, and sighing, heavy sighing.
December 2013
“She’s my grandmother,” she said. “I know,” I answered. “You have the same eyes.”
“We don’t look alike,” she said. “My mother is adopted.” Just in case I didn’t get it. She elevated her voice and said, “MY MOTHER IS ADOPTED.” She rubbed her eyes. I know there were tears in them, tears of anger and frustration, tears of youth, tears because she had absolutely no control over her life at that minute. Her grandmother sat, oblivious to her surroundings, alternately rubbing her hands together and cradling her head between them.
“I know; it was none of my business. The grandmother wasn’t being abused. But she was being ignored. She was not the object of kindness at a time in life when kindness was called for.”
Just then, the nurse called my name. I thought about walking past, keeping my nose out of someone else’s business, but I had to move the wheelchair to get to the hallway. I laid a hand on the young woman’s shoulder and said in what I hoped
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“You know,” I said. “That could be you in the wheelchair some day.”She stopped texting.
She spun around in her chair to get a good look at me.
“I can’t hear you.”
No response, which did not deter the old woman.
was the kindest of voices, not judgmental or threatening, but kind.
“I know it’s hard,” I said. “But we have to put ourselves in her place.” I know it was none of my business. The grandmother wasn’t being abused, but she was being ignored. She was not the object of kindness at a time in life when kindness was called for.
Now, I have not walked in that young woman’s shoes, not specifically, so I don’t know how difficult her grandmother could be. I don’t know how many times she’d already been asked if Sally was going to be there. I don’t know what it is like not to be recognized, not by your own grandmother. I don’t know what their prior relationship was, but I do know this:
At one time or another, every one of us is a reluctant caregiver. We’ve all been pushed into doing something we didn’t want to do or that we didn’t want to face. We don’t know if we have the strength—spiritually, emotionally, physically—and yet, we’re asked to do it anyway. We have to. It’s our grandmother, our mother, our brother or sister, our husband, our wife, our best friend, our child who needs the help. And so, we rise to the occasion the best we can, whether it’s out of a sense of duty or compassion or love. It doesn’t mean it’s easy. And it certainly doesn’t help having someone from the outside judging your every move or motive. If I could repeat the conversation with that young woman, I would make certain I said that out loud to her, rather than the rushed exchange we had. And I would tell her what I saw not just with my eyes, but also with my heart that day. When I said they had the same eyes? It had nothing to do with biological similarities. I saw the same frightened look in both of them: the granddaughter and the grandmother, the caregiver and the patient; both so very vulnerable, both of whom were desperate for a little kindness, just to get through the day.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Susan Harrison Wolffis is an award winning writer who is known for her engaging writing style. She spent more than 40 years as a writer for the Muskegon Chronicle. This author and tireless community advocate is readily ackowledged for giving a voice to those who often go unheard.
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Independent businesses provide meaningful services with a personal touch. It matters to them that you are satisfied and will come back again.
HOME FURNISHINGS • UNIQUE ACCENTS FUNKY GIFTS 166 Kalamazoo Mall • 269.250.9064 •
M o n -Th u 1 0 - 7
Fri-Sat 10-8
Sun 12-4
UrbanCottageKzoo
Happy Holidays from
Katie Juday Hair Designer
A’vie Longevity Salon 5053 Sports Drive
women
children men cuts color services
Kalamazoo.49009
269.375.4400
OptiMed Pharmacy
154 S Kalamazoo Mall • Kalamazoo 269-250-8000
www.optimedpharmacy.com
Retail Hours: M-F 9-7 • Sat 10-4
• We offer skincare products and services to clinically transform your skin. • Our medical aesthetician will assist you with creating a personalized skincare regimen. • FREE skincare consultation! ($30 value) Allow us to help you promote change, restore health and rejuvenate your skin. December 31, 2013
December 2013
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Urban Cottage Christy’s Consignment 3015 Oakland Drive Kalamazoo, MI 49008 269-344-5188 www.christysconsignment.com
166 Kalamazoo Mall (Downtown) 269.250.9064 Mon-Thu 10-7 Fri-Sat 10-8 Sun 12-4
Just in time for the holidays… Custom Crafted Gift Baskets! The perfect gift for everyone – teachers, bosses, parents…you get the picture. From Italian Bistro to Chocolate Madness, you pick the theme and price, and we tie it all together! Baskets starting at $25.
Sticks & Stones
124 South Kalamazoo Mall Downtown Kalamazoo 269-343-2520 Mon- Sat 10-7 Sun 12-4 Mfgr: Stanley - Dresser/ Mirror: $595 Queen Headboard/Footboard: $495 Nightstand: $250 each – (2 available)
KalamazooSymphony.com 269.349.7759
Mighty and majestic, these beautiful reindeer are made of hand welded metal with antique bronze finish; great for indoor or outdoor décor starting at $24.
Origami Owl
269-760-1143 hootloveslockets@aol.com www.karenpeters.origamiowl.com
Give the Gift of Live Music it fits everyone on your list! Sparkle their world this holiday Gifts Certificates Available
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December 2013
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Wedel’s Nursery, Florist & Garden Center 5020 Texas Drive Kalamazoo, MI 49009 ph: 269-345-1195 wedels.com
Bovano - Heirloom Quality Enameled Copper Wall Sculptures 25 styles $90 - $455
Plastic Surgery & Skin Care Center of Kalamazoo 7901 South 12th St. Ste. 100 Portage 269-375-2672 www.pskzoo.com
Receive a bag filled with a mini Just Kissed Lip Plumper in Tokyo, a mini Lip Drink Lip Balm SPF 15, a mini PureLash Lash Extender & Conditioner and Longest Lash Thickening & Lengthening Mascara in Black Ice (0.1 oz.) with your $50 Jane Iredale purchase. A $20 value. While supplies last.
Medicine Tree Pharmacy 56109 Village Center Circle Mattawan, MI. 49071 (269) 668-6801 M-F 8-6, Sat 9-1
20% OFF ALL GIFTS including our “new” Polish Pottery through 12/31/2013
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649 Romence Rd, Portage, MI 49002 (269) 329-0800 OPEN: Mon, Wed Fri 10 - 8 Tues, Thurs, Sat 10 - 6 Sunday 12 - 5 Distinctive gifts made in Sweden, Finland, Norway and Denmark! Best selection in SW Michigan since 1960! December 2013
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Crafting
BEAUTY by Laura Naughton
T
he winter holidays are here which means it’s time to spread some cheer. Instead of running to the mall to buy a ready-made gift for friends and family, why not create a personalized beauty gift that can also minimize your spending. Try two of my favorite homemade organic beauty recipes that will be sure to create a warm glow in the heart of the receiver as well as provide a fun and festive holiday project to get you into the spirit of the season.
HOMEMADE ORGANIC CANDY CANE SUGAR SCRUB 3 pint mason jars or 6 half-pint mason jars
Use this scrub as an exfoliator for hands and body in the shower 1-2 times weekly. 5 cups granulated organic cane sugar 2 cups organic cold-pressed virgin coconut oil 1/3 cup organic olive oil 20-30 drops pure peppermint essential oil Natural food coloring Mason jars with lids (3 pint jars or 6 half pint jars) Heat coconut oil in a double boiler until completely melted, making sure to stir frequently. Remove boiler from heat and pour oil into a large bowl. Stir olive oil and peppermint essential oil into the coconut oil. Gradually add sugar into oil mixture stirring constantly until no dry sugar remains. Make the scrub festive by integrating seasonal colors into the mixture. Use red or green paired with white for Christmas or blue and white for Hanukkah. To create the layered effect with two colors, separate
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1/3 of the sugar mixture into a second bowl. Gradually add drops of natural food coloring into the mixture while stirring until the desired color intensity is achieved. Create the first layer by pouring a half-inch layer of the white mixture into a mason jar. Slide the jar back and forth on the counter until the layer looks flat. Place the jar into the freezer for 10 minutes until the layer is firm. Then, pour a half-inch layer of the colored mixture onto the white layer. Repeat the process interchanging colors until desired look is achieved.
2/3 4 6
Once the layers are set, you can remove the jar from the freezer and seal it with a lid. Add your own personal decorative labels to finish off the holiday gift.
First, pour oil mixture into lip balm containers. Set aside to cool.
HOMEMADE ORGANIC COCONUT OIL AND COCOA BUTTER LOTION BARS AND LIP BALM
8 small bars and 6 lip balms Apply this lip balm using your finger. When using the lotion bar, lightly rub directly against the skin. The heat of your skin will cause the bar to melt and leave a thin layer of lotion; rub lotion into skin with hands and it will absorb in about 5 minutes. It’s best to keep the bars refrigerated to prevent them from melting in warm weather. 1/3 cup organic cold-pressed virgin coconut oil 1/3 cup organic cocoa butter
cup organic white beeswax (grated) or organic white beeswax pastilles 4-ounce mason jars with lids clear lip balm jars
Optional: 10-20 drops natural essential oils for fragrance Combine all ingredients except essential oils in a double broiler and heat until completely melted while stirring frequently. It should take about 7-10 minutes. Remove double boiler from heat. Quickly transfer oil into a 4-Cup Pyrex liquid measuring cup.
If you’d like to add a fragrance to the lotion bars, add essential oils into remaining oil mixture. Stir thoroughly. Quickly pour mixture into small metal or silicon muffin molds. Set aside to cool for about 4 hours. To speed up the process, let the molds cool for 45 minutes and then place them in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. Remove from refrigerator, flip the pan over and gently tap edge against the counter. They should pop out easily. If having trouble removing, place in freezer for 10 minutes and repeat. To dress up the lip balm, add a decorative sticker to the lid. For the lotion bars, place 2 bars in each small mason jar and attach a festive tie-on to the lid. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Production Stylist and owner of LKN Studio, Laura is also a model and connoisseur of natural regimens for everyday health and beauty. www.lknstudio.com
www.womenslifestylekazoo.com
Certified Wealth Strategist ® The Wiser Financial Group congratulates Denise Garten, CWS ® for earning her Certified Wealth Strategist ® certification. Denise will use her new certification to provide a unique and comprehensive approach to wealth planning for her clients.
That’s the Wiser Advantage® Denise L. Garten CWS ®, Financial Planner
Your first consultation is complimentary. 6100 Stadium Dr., Kalamazoo, MI 49009
I 269.372.1430 I 800.292.1472
thewisergroup.com Denise Garten is an Investment Advisory Representative offering Securities and Investment Advisory Services through Transamerica Financial Advisors, Inc. (TFA) member FINRA, SIPC, and a Registered Investment Advisor. Non-Securities products and services are not offered through TFA. The Wiser Group is independent of TFA. LD048222-11/13
New Patients Welcome!
• Preventative Dentistry • Crowns & Bridges • Cosmetic Dentistry Teeth Straightening • Extractions (Free Consultation for Invisalign) -Accepting Most Insurances• Root Canals Now Including Healthy Kids & Mi-Child • Bonding • Nitrous Oxide Sedation • Dental Veneers • Bleaching & Teeth Whitening
269-343-6533 Auville Krause D.D.S. Ryan Frederickson D.D.S.
www.4familydentistryportage.com
Lovers Lane
6016 Lovers Lane • Portage, MI 49002 (Lovers Lane @ Milham Rd.)
Milham
December 2013
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Dr. Karen L. Betten, M.D. Family Medicine
Recognizing the increasing demand for more options in health care and wellness, Greater Kalamazoo’s Dr. Karen Betten is committed to offering alternatives to traditional medicine at her family practice. She practices integrative medicine, a complementary, healing-oriented style of medicine that takes the whole person, including all aspects of his or her lifestyle, into account during treatment. This includes treating patients with dietary supplements and botanicals, mind-body medicine procedures like meditation, acupuncture and massage, as well as alternative medicine systems such as traditional Chinese medicine. “I offer three types of office visits,” Dr. Betten said. “One is a traditional family medicine visit in which the patient establishes me as a primary care provider. Second, I offer a comprehensive, two-visit integrative medicine consult for patients with other primary care providers that want additional recommendations from an integrative medical perspective. Lastly, I offer a medical acupuncture visit in which both medicine and acupuncture can be used to treat conditions.” “Integrative medicine is my approach to just about everything I treat, so I’m often able to offer patients more than one option for treatment,” Dr. Betten said. “I treat chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, acute conditions such as sore throats and bladder infections, and mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD.”
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“I’m so grateful that my present situation enables me to integrate all ten principles of holistic medical practice into the care of my patients,” Dr. Betten said in a biographical essay. “I realized that the principle most important to me is a relationship-centered care.” Dr. Betten is proud to have two types of practices: a Direct Care Practice and a micro-practice. She contracts directly with patients, not insurance companies, allowing her to offer more affordable rates, and treat more patients with her integrative tactics. Her micro-practice allows her to be the one to handle all aspects of her practice from answering the phone to scheduling her appointments. This means she is able to take care of patient issues and questions promptly and personally. “The health of my patients is most important to me: physically, mentally, and spiritually,” said Dr. Betten. “Treating patients with integrative medicine is my greatest joy!” When she isn’t working, Dr. Betten enjoys traveling and spending time with her family. She especially loves spending time with her nine nieces and nephews and hopes to one day achieve her goal of being the world’s greatest aunt. For more information about Dr. Betten and her practice, visit her website at www.drkarenbetten.com. - Emily L. Magyar
www.womenslifestylekazoo.com
Independent businesses provide meaningful services with a personal touch. It matters to them that you are satisfied and will come back again. Make your holidays sparkle with help from Romence Gardens in Portage! Artificial Trees, Wreaths & Garland We have the best looking artificial trees in the area!
NeumanTree
10 year tree warranty since 1964
All Artificial Tree Sizes Prelit & Unlit 20% Off
Unique Gifts for Gardeners & Bird Lovers Bird Baths Bird Food & Feeders Wind Chimes & Gazing Globes Decorative Garden Statues & Accents Garden Arbors, Benches & Tables
Christmas ornaments, decorations & lights Romence Garden Gift Card
Live Trees, Fresh Wreaths & Roping Cedar, Fraser, White Pine
Poinsettias Amaryllis & Paper White Bulbs
269-323-8310
9660 Shaver Road Portage, MI
RomenceGardenCenter.com
Facebook.com/RomenceGardens Twitter @WeLovePlants
December 2013
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Independent businesses provide meaningful services with a personal touch. It matters to them that you are satisfied and will come back again.
the talk of the tree
124 South Kalamazoo Mall • In Beautiful Downtown Kalamazoo 269.343.2520 • Mon - Sat 10-7 • Sun 12 -4
Sounds of the Season Saturday, Dec. 21| 8pm Miller Auditorium
Tickets make GREAT holiday gifts!
The Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra presents a festive concert of seasonal hits and popular favorites. A treat for the entire family during the most magical time of the year!
Tickets 387-2300 | KalamazooSymphony.com
Your Decoration Destination
FREE Handmade Bow
in your choice of fabrics & colors with purchase of 22" or larger size fresh wreath. $6 value! Up to two free bows with coupon only. Good thru Dec. 14, 2013
Nursery, Florist & Garden Center 5020 Texas Drive • Kalamazoo, MI 49009
269-345-1195
Corner of Milham Rd., • Texas Dr. & 12th St. Mon.–Sat. 9:00-7:00, Closed Sunday
Fresh, Handmade Wreaths
We make them here so they stay fresh the whole season! Sizes from 18" to 60" - plain or with your choice of decorations, pine cones, berries and/or bows. $16.99 & up
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December 2013
$5 off with $25 or more regular price merchandise
Not valid with any other offers or for purchase of gift certificates. With coupon only. Good thru Dec. 14, 2013
www.womenslifestylekazoo.com
Health SPREADING THE
W
by Kimberly Olson
hile holiday gift shopping can be difficult, I say the gift of health is always a safe option. Help your loved ones head into the New Year healthier and happier by encouraging a healthy lifestyle with items such as these.
BodyBugg This is one of the most accurate ways to determine how many calories you really burn on a daily basis. The BodyBugg synchs with an online calorie management program that includes meal tracking, meal planning, activity logs and tons of recipe ideas. There are many variations out there, so see what appeals to you most. Gym Membership One of the hardest parts of starting a regular exercise routine is taking that first step into the gym. Why not help that special someone by providing the right motivation they need to get started? Most health clubs offer one month to one year, so you can tailor the gift to suit your needs. Throw in some personal training sessions for an added surprise. Cooking Classes For your busy mom friends who enjoy cooking but have very little time, look into various cooking classes. Many of them are focused on simple meals made easy and showing how to easily make extras for freezing. Another option is to choose classes specializing in different ethnicities such as Thai or Japanese.
Magazine Subscription Purchasing a fitness or health magazine subscription is the perfect gift for a limited budget. Every month the receiver will be reminded of your gift! Some of my favorites are Women’s Health, Cooking Light and The Food Network. Of course you can’t go wrong with a cookbook.
Bulu Box This is a great gift for your friend that is always trying out the latest supplement or raving about the yummy protein shake she just made. Each month, a Bulu Box will arrive filled with samples of different vitamins, weight loss items and supplements. You can choose anywhere from a one-time purchase up to monthly for a year. For those that love surprises, this is the way to go.
Athletic Apparel Gift Card If you’re really undecided about what to get, a gift card is a safe bet. Buying clothes for other people can be a bit tricky so this will let them be able to try things on and settle on the perfect style for them. Blender or Juicer Since these kitchen gadgets can be a bit pricey, this gift may be reserved for close family members or friends. Splitting the gift with another gift-giver will keep the price affordable. Both a quality blender and juicer are convenient kitchen utilities that people are often reluctant to splurge on.
Events Calendar December 2013
Borgess Events Borgess Tree of Love Lighting Ceremony
A special ceremony to highlight our charitable campaign to fund mammograms for women who cannot afford them. Borgess Medical Center, Lawrence Education Center Thursday, December 5, 6 p.m. Free and open to all. Light refreshments and snacks provided. Learn more at treeoflove.borgess.com. Newborn Care From Nose To Toes
A complete head-to-toe look at how to care for your little one that provides you with some hands-on experience. Topics include bathing and diapering, safety issues, infant stimulation, and much more. Borgess at Woodbridge Hills, South Auditorium Monday, December 9, 6 to 9 p.m. $28/couple. Registration required. Call (269) 226.8135 or (800) 828.8135 or visit wellness.borgess.com to register. Bariatric Surgery Seminar
For those considering bariatric surgery. Borgess Medical Center, Lawrence Education Center Wednesday, December 11, 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday, December 14, 10 a.m. to Noon Free. Registration required. Call (269) 226.6863 to register or visit bariatrics.borgess.com for more information. For a complete list and further information about what Borgess has to offer, please visit wellness.borgess.com. Want the latest classes, events and health screenings sent directly to your inbox? You can also sign up for the Borgess Bulletin e-newsletter there as well.
Borgess Health & Fitness Center Basic Life Support for Health Care Providers
This class teaches the fundamentals of adult and pediatric CPR, including two-rescuer scenarios, bag-valve mask techniques, foreign body airway obstruction, AED and special resuscitation situations. Students receive a credential card upon completion. Borgess Health & Fitness Center Wednesday, December 4, 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. $48. Registration required. Call (269) 226.8135 or (800) 828.8135 or visit wellness.borgess.com to register. Borgess Healthy Steps
Join us for a brand new, year round, coached walking club. Much more than mall walking, we’ll get you started and keep you moving with everything you need for success. Borgess Healthy Steps is for all ability levels. Ongoing enrollment is accepted throughout the year. Borgess Health & Fitness Center Tuesdays & Thursdays, 8 to 9 a.m. $20 annually. To learn more, please call (269) 552.2348. My New Lifestyle
This science-based, supervised program promotes the metabolic changes necessary for long-term success. An emphasis will be place on achieving small, sustainable goals throughout the program. Give yourself the best gift of all—a healthy new life! To learn more on the program that’s right for you, call (269) 552.2340.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Nutrition and fitness expert Kimberly Olson, CNC, CPT is the creator of FitKim, a nutrition and fitness blog that teaches people how easy it is to be healthy.
For a complete list and further information about classes at Borgess Health & Fitness Center, visit fitness.borgess.com. A member of Ascension Health®
December 2013
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December 2013
www.womenslifestylekazoo.com
100 years ago
with his plump red cheeks and red suit accented with white fur, Santa looked very similar to the holly jolly guy of today. Well-known for landing on rooftops by riding in a reindeer driven sleigh, in 1913, he occasionally gave the deer a break and dropped in by piloting a dirigible flying machine. Always arriving with a magic bag of presents, the gifts he delivered may have included a sock filled with candy, fruit and nuts, along with a book or two and something much desired. Here are some of the very special gifts that were introduced or popular 100 years ago. Some of them are still produced today.
..................................... Kewpie Doll The chubby cheeked Kewpie dolls were conceived by author and illustrator
Rose O’Neill for a comic strip as “a sort of little round fairy whose one idea is to teach people to be merry and kind at the same time.” She informed Woman’s Home Companion that the creatures appeared to her in a dream. She also credited their appearance as a likeness of her baby brother whom she sketched while playing with him during her youth. The Kewpie doll became one of the best known cartoon characters in the world. n 1912, O’Neill agreed to allow a German company to mold the bisque dolls in several sizes. The naked Kewpie dolls became an international hit, selling for 75 cents to $3.50. The dolls started getting dressed in the mid-20s. O’Neill became the first illustrator to build a merchandising empire from her work, complete with story books, household products, dolls, and a clothing line. The Kewpie craze lasted for nearly three decades. The illustrations were used to sell Jello, Kellogg’s Corn Flakes, laundry detergent and other products. O’Neill had become the highest paid female illustrator in the country. In the 1940s, her illustrations were no longer in demand. She exhausted most of her assets as the result of both extravagance and her generosity during the Great Depression. O’Neill died in 1944 at the age of 69 in Missouri.
Flexible Flyer Pennsylvania Quaker Samuel Leeds Allen began
producing these speedy rope and foot controlled sleds in his farm equipment company in New Jersey to keep his workers busy during the off season in the late 1800s. The expensive sleds didn’t sell well until he marketed them to the toy departments of department stores (instead of the farm equipment companies his sales staff was familiar with) and by 1915 more than one hundred thousand Flexible Fyers were sold. Leisure Group purchased the S.L. ALLEN COMPANY in 1968. Five years later a group of private investors bought out that company and manufactured the sleds as Blazon Flexible Flyers for 20 years. Roadmaster purchased the rights to produce the sleds in 1973 and production was moved to China in 1998. The made-in-China Flexible Flyers are available today for about $120.
Modern day Kewpie knockoffs and reproductions are widely available. However, an authentic Kewpie doll created 100 years ago with a composition body, glass eyes, bisque head and autographed by Rose O’Neill can command thousands of dollars.
................................................. Ouija Board A Ouija Board for Christmas may be considered paradoxical in 2013 but in 1913 many Victorians
were gaga over the fortune telling game. The game, popularized by William Fund, was touted as “the newest and most popular game on the market. You cannot make a better present than one of these games.” Originally known as a Talking Board, it was said to be able to “answer questions concerning the past, present and future with wonderful accuracy.” The price was around one dollar and became a fad. The words hello and goodbye were added during the morbidly curious Victorian era in order to be courteous to the voices from beyond. The Fund estate sold the business to Parker Brothers in 1966, which sold about 25 million of the games. By 1973 (after the release of The Exorcist), the game was considered a dangerous tool of the devil and banned from many households. Hasbro purchased the business in 1991. You can buy “the Mysterious, Mystifying” glow in the dark version by Hasbro for $20 today. If you dare.
Folding Pocket Kodak Camera George Eastman reinvented the camera back in 1888
and came up with the name Kodak simply because he liked the letter K. Kodak offered a variety of compact cameras during this era including the vest pocket camera (1912-1914), the ever evolving folding pocket cameras and the popular Brownie models for starting at $1. Between 1900 and 1999, the industry giant acquired nearly 20,000 patents for advancements in photography. Kodak declared bankruptcy in 2012 but is in the process of re-emerging.
December 2013
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1913 Trivia The Amway Grand Plaza was originally known as the Pantlind Hotel, founded in 1913. Its 1913 Room restaurant was the only one in Michigan to be awarded 5 diamonds by AAA. That area in the hotel is currently Ruth’s Chris Steak House.
The 1913 Massacre (The Italian Hall Disaster) occurred December 24, 1913, in Calumet when seventy-three men, women and mostly children were crushed to death after someone yelled “fire” and everyone rushed to exit a door that couldn’t be opened. The Great Lakes were struck by a massive storm system with hurricane force winds and blizzard conditions during a four-day period in November 1913. The storm sank ships on lakes Superior, Michigan, Huron and Erie. Twelve ships sunk and as many as 300 people died. Eight of these ships have been discovered, including the Henry B. Smith in June 2013. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration, it was the most devastating natural disaster to strike the Great Lakes.
Edward Noble founded the Life Savers and Candy Company in 1913. He installed Life Savers displays next to cash registers. He encouraged the owners of restaurants and grocery stores to give customers a nickel in their change to increase Life Savers sales. In 1913 the name Hollywood was formally adopted. Hollywood became the center of the movie industry. The first film to feature an all-Native American cast was released in 1913. The silent film, Hiawatha was produced by Frank E. Moore with Cinematography by Victor Milner. The filming location was Lake Superior, Michigan. It is described as “An American Indian raised by his grandmother on Lake Superior is declared a prophet of his people.”
Toy Bear Richard Steiff is credited with designing the German-based Steiff Company’s first toy
bear (later to be known as a Teddy Bear). The German-born teddy bear creator is the nephew of the Steiff company founder Margarete Steiff. The bears were a hit at the Saint Louis World’s Fair in 1904. The popular Steiff Dolly Bear was made in 1913 to commemorate the U.S. Presidential elections. The 2013 Steiff North America Replica Collection features a remarkably accurate copy of the Dolly Bear replica (1913) for $345. Richard Steiff settled in Jackson, Michigan in 1923, and lived there for the last 16 years of his life. He died suddenly of a massive heart attack in a Jackson pub at the age of 62 in 1939.
BOOKS
.....................................
.......................................
Fun and Games:
The crossword puzzle was invented by Arthur Wynne and first published on Sunday, December 21, 1913 in the New York World newspaper.
Erector Set The metal toy construction set created by Yale
student Alfred Carlton Gilbert, was introduced and sold in 1913 at the New York City Toy Fair by The Mysto Manufacturing Company. It was promoted by the first national advertising campaign for a toy with ads in the Saturday Evening Post and Popular Mechanics. The ads exhorted “Hello Boys! Make Lots of Toys” and the set became an inseparable bond between boyhood to manhood. In 1966, just five years after A.C. Gilbert’s death, the company was out of business. The brand changed hands several times and now the Erector brand (dedicated to the U.S. market) is held by the Meccano Company based in Calais, France.
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December 2013
Books published in 1913: • Pollyanna by Eleanor H. Porter • Little Wars by H.G. Wells • Pygmalion by George Bernard Shaw • Sons and Lovers by D.H. Lawrence • O Pioneers! by Willa Cather • In Search of Lost Time by Marcel Proust • The Tale of Pigling Bland by Beatrix Potter • The Gods of Mars by Edgar Rice Burroughs • The Custom of the Country by Edith Wharton • Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson • The Patchwork Girl of Oz by L. Frank Baum • Totem and Taboo by Sigmund Freud • The Return of Tarzan by Edgar Rice Burroughs • Petersburg by Andrey Bely • The Google Book by Vincent Cartwright Vickers • The Inside of hte Cup by Winston Churchhill
Before creating the Erector Set, Gilbert was already a sports legend, world record holder, football quarterback and track star. As well, the 5’ 7” 135 pound Yale athlete, set two world records in the pole vault and he won an Olympic Gold Medal for pole vaulting in 1908. He went on to start one of the first radio stations in the country and used it to broadcast infomercials for his toys. Although he received his medical degree, Dr. Gilbert preferred to practice business. The Mysto Manufacturing Company became the A.C. Gilbert Company, adding chemistry sets, microscope sets and educational toys to its wares. Gilbert is credited with coming with up the idea of company-provided employee benefits.
www.womenslifestylekazoo.com
Thrifting for the Holidays…
Give a Unique, Green Gift They’ll Love!
With the holiday season in full swing, we’re all looking for that perfect gift to give to the people on our shopping lists. One option many overlook for their shopping needs is taking advantage of a resale store. Thrift shopping is good for the planet, easy on the pocketbook and is gaining momentum as a fashionable way to shop. Fashion bloggers, social media and word-of-mouth hype has made an on- trend phenomenon out of thrift shopping. Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook and Twitter are bursting with photos of quirky, vintage and frugal finds and have made great discoveries at fantastic prices all the rage. There truly has never been a better time to give a thoughtfully chosen, secondhand treasure. Use common sense to decide who may appreciate receiving a gently used, recycled item. Good recipients for gifts from secondhand stores include those who are passionate about the environment, people who have a unique personal style and those who are into antiques, retro or vintage items. If someone on your list enjoys going to flea markets, estate sales, and yard sales, she may be the perfect person to shop for in a secondhand shop. Those who love the hottest trends, who have never stepped foot into the world of recycled retail or who may not be able to get past the fact that an item is used would likely not be good candidates for this kind of gift. When on the hunt in the secondhand market make sure to stay away from anything too personal. Rather, look for things that are versatile. For example, if you are shopping for a daughter who loves vintage clothing and fashion, look for vintage brush and mirror sets, vintage hankies, scarves, jewelry, or other accessories. These items are all easy
to incorporate into her individual style. Clothing can be tricky for reasons of fit or a person’s particular tastes. Obviously, secondhand items can be harder to return, so it’s best not to venture into this area. Other items that may be acceptable to gift are items like vintage décor (think a vase or picture frames), a funky shaped serving dish or books in like-new condition. Know a funky musician? Check out used record shops for old LP’s from popular artists. Even if they can’t play them, they may enjoy the nostalgia (and can even frame the covers). With these quick tips, you’ll be sure to give a unique, earth-friendly gift that your loved one will be sure to cherish. Happy hunting! Janice Penny is a partner at The Clothing Connection and is a vintage expert. She enjoys fashion and styling blogging, web publishing, and enlightening others about stretching their budgets. www.myclothingconnection.com
We have expanded! We now carry Fresh Flowers, Home Decor and Gifts. We are expanding our Pet Products, Grills and accessories
Watch for our GRAND OPENING in December
7129 W Q Ave • Texas Corners • Kalamazoo MI 49009 • 269-376-2000 December 2013
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Seasonings
Tis the
Spices add a delicious flair to your holiday faire. courtesy of McCormick seasonings
Roasted Harvest Vegetables 10 (2/3-cup) servings
A medley of carrots, onions, parsnips and squash gets a subtle sweet and spicy boost from nutmeg. 1/2 1 1/2 3 1/2 2 1-1/2 1-1/2 1-1/2 1-1/2
teaspoon sage, rubbed teaspoon seasoned salt teaspoon ground black pepper tablespoons olive oil teaspoon ground nutmeg cups cut red potatoes, 1-inch chunks cups cut carrots, 1-inch chunks cups cut red onions, 1-inch chunks cups cut butternut squash, 1-inch chunks cups cut parsnips, 1-inch chunks
Preheat oven to 450 F. Mix seasoned salt, pepper, nutmeg and sage in small bowl. Toss vegetables with oil in large bowl. Sprinkle seasoning mixture over vegetables; toss to coat well. Spread vegetables in single layer on foil-lined 15x10x1-inch baking pan. Bake 30 to 35 minutes or until vegetables are tender and golden brown.
Easy Recipe
Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread 16 servings
This recipe, also known as Monkey Bread, is so delectable that everyone will be clamoring for seconds. 1 cup sugar 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon 3 cans (7.5 ounces each) refrigerated buttermilk biscuits 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted Preheat oven to 350 F. Mix sugar and cinnamon in plastic bag. Cut biscuits into quarters. Shake 6 to 8 pieces at a time in cinnamon sugar mixture. Place biscuit pieces in greased 10-cup bundt pan. Mix leftover cinnamon sugar mixture with melted butter. Pour over biscuits. Bake 35 minutes or until golden brown. Cool in pan 5 minutes. Invert onto serving plate. Serve warm.
Orange-Glazed Turkey Meatballs 15 (2 meatball) servings
Tender meatballs get bursts of sweetness from orange marmalade and a savory note from poultry seasoning.
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1 1/2 1/2 1 1/2 1/4 1 1 1/2 1 1 1
egg cup milk cup plain bread crumbs teaspoon salt teaspoon poultry seasoning teaspoon ground black pepper pound ground turkey tablespoon olive oil cup chicken broth cup orange marmalade tablespoon white wine vinegar pinch ground red pepper
December 2013
Beat egg and milk in large bowl. Stir in bread crumbs, salt, poultry seasoning and pepper. Add ground turkey; mix well. Cover. Refrigerate 1 hour. Shape into 1-inch meatballs. Heat oil in large skillet on medium heat. Place meatballs in single layer in skillet. Cook until well browned on all sides. Remove meatballs from skillet. Set aside. Mix orange marmalade, broth, vinegar and red pepper in skillet on medium heat. Bring to boil, stirring to release browned bits in bottom of skillet. Return meatballs to skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low; cook 10 minutes or until meatballs are cooked through and sauce has reduced to glaze consistency.
www.womenslifestylekazoo.com
Vanilla Pecan Pie 10 servings
Cheesecake meets pecan pie in this smooth and decadent seasonal dessert.
Pecan Cookie Balls
1 1 3 3/4 4 1/2 3 1/4 2
These buttery melt-in-your mouth cookies are also known as Mexican Wedding Cakes. They make a great holiday gift or cookie exchange addition.
Preheat oven to 350 F. Prepare crust as directed on package for one-crust pie using 9-inch deep-dish pie plate. Beat cream cheese, 1 of the eggs, 1/4 cup of the sugar and 2 teaspoons of the vanilla in large bowl with electric mixer on medium speed until well blended and smooth. Spread evenly on bottom of crust. Bake 15 minutes.
4 dozen or 24 (2 cookie) servings
1 2-1/2 2 1/2 1/8 2 2
cup (2 sticks) butter, softened cups powdered sugar, divided teaspoons pure vanilla extract teaspoon ground nutmeg teaspoon salt cups flour cups finely chopped pecans
Preheat oven to 350 F. Beat butter in large bowl with electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. Add 1/2 cup of the sugar, vanilla, nutmeg and salt; beat until well blended. Stir in flour and pecans. Shape into 1-inch balls. Place 1 inch apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake 15 minutes. Remove from baking sheets. Immediately roll hot cookies in remaining 2 cups sugar. Place sugared cookies on wire racks to cool. When cool, roll again in sugar
refrigerated pie crust, (from 14.1-ounce package) package or 8 ounces cream cheese, softened eggs, divided cup sugar, divided teaspoons pure vanilla extract , divided cup light corn syrup tablespoons butter, melted teaspoon salt cups pecan pieces, toasted
Beat remaining 2 eggs and 1/2 cup sugar in large bowl with wire whisk until smooth. Add corn syrup, butter, remaining 2 teaspoons vanilla and salt; stir until well blended. Sprinkle pecans evenly over baked cream cheese layer. Slowly pour corn syrup mixture over nuts. Bake 35 to 40 minutes or until just set in center. Cool completely on wire rack.
Good through 12/31/2013
When you purchase $25. It’s good to give and to receive this Christmas.
For every $25 in gift cards you buy! Receive a free $5.00 gift giver certificate. Good on your next visit through 12/31/14 Holiday gift card promotion good through 12/31/13
3830 W. Centre St. Portage, MI 49024 269.324.1235
5160 W. Main, Kalamazoo ~ 269.342.4360 140 E. Columbia, Battle Creek ~ 269.968.3938 December 2013
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Independent businesses provide meaningful services with a personal touch. It matters to them that you are satisfied and will come back again.
649 Romence Rd., Portage The Shoppes at Romence Village Phone: (269) 329-0800 From 1 - 94 take exit 76; South 1.5 miles; Turn west on Romence Rd.; Turn south at first light. Mon, Wed & Fri 10-8 • Tues, Thurs & Sat 10-6 • Sunday 12-5
We offer an ever changing inventory of designer and brand name garments...
Come shop and enjoy our posh environment as YOU discover incredible brands which include: Coldwater Creek, Chico’s, Loft, White House Black Market and many more.
451 W. Kilgore Rd. Portage.Mi 269.376.9330
TEXAS CORNERS
DENTAL
FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY 6780 West Q Ave • Kalamazoo, MI 49009
269-372-2400
email: info@texascornersdental.com www.TexasCornersDental.com
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December 2013
Think of us for your Holiday shopping needs
Hours
Annual Author Day - December 14th
10am–6pm Monday - Saturday Closed Sunday
2 Locations in Kalamazoo 407 N. Clarendon — 269-385-2665 2413 Parkview — 269-553-6506
EXCITING NEWS! Mattawan Dental has relocated to Texas Corners
• New patients welcome • Friendly & caring staff • Comfortable environment • We love families!
Dorothy Griswold, D.M.D.
www.womenslifestylekazoo.com
Willpower
Women for
Most of wish we had more willpower, the selfregulation that allows us to resist temptation and persist to achieve goals. Willpower is used in all of the deeply meaningful facets of our lives, including keeping relationships vibrant, raising kids, caring for aging parents, advancing our careers and living within our financial means. At its most basic, willpower means ignoring a shortterm urge in favor of an important long-term goal. For example, in relationships (whether with our kids, in-laws, co-workers, bosses or spouses) we use willpower to quell the urge to shoutn-pout (the short-term desire) and instead respond in a way that shows respect and moves the relationship forward (the long-term goal).
Supercharge Your Skincare!
REAL SCIENCE REAL RESULTS Third party clinical trials show that NeriumAD Age-Defying Treatment dramatically reduces the appearance of: • Fine lines and wrinkles • Discoloration • Uneven skin texture • Enlarged pores • Aging or loose skin
Willpower peaks and lulls through the day depending on how well rested we are and how well we’ve nourished ourselves. Willpower often lulls at mid-morning, midafternoon, during the transition between work and home and when we’re tired and hungry. It is during these times when most people “cheat” on a diet, fight with their spouses or go on unexplained buying binges.
2323 Gull Road Kalamazoo, MI 49048
269.226.8686
Bolster your willpower with the following tips: 1) Eat foods that digest slowly. Mix protein (eggs, nuts, lean meats, and dairy) or quality fat (nuts, avocado, or olive oil) with your complex carbohydrates to prevent the energy crash that causes willpower to fail. Avoid sweets and sugar sweetened beverages.
...a place to nurture your mind, body & soul
www.LaDeDaSpa.com www.sherisfinesalon.nerium.com
2) Get real, quality sleep. We cannot thrive in a complicated, demanding world on little or poor sleep. You may thrive in one arena of life on poor sleep, but willpower will fail elsewhere. For example, you may be a superstar at work, but super-binge on junk food once willpower lulls. You may be a compassionate caregiver to the rest of the world but repeatedly pick fights with your spouse or other people you truly care about when you’re over-taxed. 3) Plan for Willpower to Fail. Since we know that willpower lulls, depending solely on it to achieve goals is a bad choice. Put fail-safes in place to prepare for willpower failures. For example, keep apples, almonds and fresh water at hand to stave off damaging trips to the vending machine. To meet long term saving goals, have money direct-deposited from your paycheck to a special account. 4) Recognize what a Willpower Failure
feels like. When willpower is about to fail and we are about to blow a fuse, binge on Oreos or buy out the shoe store, it can feel a lot like having PMS. It often manifests with a feeling of over-feeling. If you can recognize that you’re over-responding to a situation, take a break, a nap or eat a high quality snack to bolster willpower.
Willpower is a great tool for reaching health, wealth, relationship and career success. However, it can’t be the only tool we use to achieve goals because it will inevitably fail! If we understand how and where willpower fails, we can build powerful strategies to enhance willpower, resist short-term urges and succeed with our deeply meaningful long-term goals.
Heather Ratliff is a Registered Nurse and Health Coach. She owns The Wellness RN in Kalamazoo, Michigan, a business dedicated to supporting individuals on their wellness journey. You can learn more about her at www.TheWellnessRN.com.
December 2013
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Parkway Plastic Surgery
Karen Betten, MD Family Medicine
A Direct Primary Care Practice
Parkway Surgery Center
• Affordable rates - ideal for uninsured and those with high deductible plans • Same or next day appointments, including evenings and weekends • Available 24/7 by phone or email
December 2013 Specials IPL Face and Chest $250.00 Any 3 Products 25% off Does not include Latisse
www.drkarenbetten.com 269-779-0797 526 W. Centre Ave, Portage MI 49024
Julie Powell
Save the date! In celebration of 25 years in business, Julie Powell Skin Care will be offering fabulous promotions on skin care treatments, exciting specials, and gifts throughout the entire month of January 2014! Treat yourself to beautiful, radiant skin for the New Year.
Also offering Women's Health & Integrative Medicine
Look & Feel Your Best Season's Greetings
We strive to provide a superior care experience by creating a pleasant personal setting for the finest surgical procedures.
Steven M. Nitsch, MD
Skin Care Specialist Comprehensive www.juliepowellskincare.com Plastic Surgical Care Fraxel re:store Laser Resurfacing “THERMAGE” Skin Tightening
Cosmetic & Reconstructive Breast Surgery Body Contouring
IPL Treatment of Skin Pigment & Hair Removal
Cosmetic & Reconstructive Facial Improvements
Microdermabrasion, Chemical Peels, Custom Facials
Burn Care & Reconstruction
Image Products, Gabriel Correctives Products
Skin Cancer Treatments Scar Revision Botox & Injectable Fillers
LATISSE
575 W. Crosstown Parkway, Kalamazoo | 269.343.5750 Toll-Free 877.995.5750 | www.parkwayps.com
Living Your Life at Home • Private Duty Home Care - Medical and Non-Medical
• Transportation/Dr. Appointments
• Home Health Aides, Companions
• Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care
• Free In-Home Patient Assessment • Meal Preparation • Housekeeping/Laundry • Shopping/Errands
ABSOLUTE
• Relief Care for Family Members • Medication Set Up/Monitoring • Injections • Personal Shopping
HOMECARE
and Medical Staffing
8080 Moorsbridge Road, Portage www.absolutehomecare.info (269) 324-8080 • 888-875-8080
Every Body Wins. Important Reasons to Use ASEA General Health and Well-Being Anti-Aging Athletic Performance, Endurance and Recovery
Live Younger Longer
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December 2013
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Tastes from the Kitchen Zeb’s Trading Co. & Chef Joe Jurhs Whether you have a yearning for midwestern food done right or have a hankering for a little Tex-Mex food to sooth your taste buds, look no further than Trader Zeb’s. With cuisine spanning the gamut from barbeque to Creole to Italian and even Asian-fusion, you can get a little bit of everything at this Kalamazoo-area establishment. Zeb’s kitchen manager, Joe Jurhs, has been working in kitchens since he was fourteen years old, almost twenty years now. His love of cooking developed as he worked as a line cook at Zeb’s, and eventually took him to a few other Kalamazoo-area establishments as he honed his skills. Now he’s come full circle and is running the kitchen at Zeb’s. “I am proud of the quality and consistency of the food we put out,” Joe said. “We have a very dedicated kitchen staff that works hard and cares about the products they present to their customers.”
our menu, but I wanted to make this one a little simpler and easy to throw together any night of the week,” Joe said. In addition to the Pecan Chicken, Joe recommends any of the homemade soups created daily at Zeb’s. Bread used at the restaurant is baked locally, and the kitchen is proud to serve hand-cut seafood and steaks. “Our house specialty is prime rib slow-cooked every day, and that would be my personal favorite,” Joe said. “We also have a baked mac’n’cheese that won the Texas Corners Mac ‘N’ Cheese Cook Off.” Whatever you’re hungry for, Zeb’s is sure to satisfy. For more information about Zeb’s Trading Co, visit the restaurant’s Facebook page or call 269-375-6778.
Zeb’s Trading Co., located at 7990 S. 8th Street, is proud to serve a variety of menu items inspired by northern and midwestern cuisine, including lake perch, walleye, and white fish. The kitchen staff is also experienced in creating dishes with a southof-the-border feel, including their enchiladas and tostadas. As Joe says, “It’s done right, and people seem to love it.” This month’s featured recipe, Pecan Chicken with Baked Sweet Potatoes, is a collaboration consisting of a traditional menu item and Joe’s creativity. “There is a very similar recipe on
Pecan Crusted Chicken Breasts with Baked Sweet Potatoes and Honey Butter 2 – 6 to 9 oz. chicken breasts halved lengthwise (this will give you four flat equal pieces) 1.5 cups finely chopped pecans 2 large sweet potatoes, halved and individually wrapped in aluminum foil ½ cup butter (room temperature) ¼ cup butter or olive oil 1 Tbsp honey ½ tsp ground cinnamon ¼ tsp nutmeg Salt & Pepper to taste Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Bake sweet potatoes for 1 hour and 10 minutes. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, honey, cinnamon and nutmeg until smooth and creamy consistency. Refrigerate until ready to serve. On a plate add pecans. Press chicken breasts firmly onto the pecans to coat them thoroughly on both sides. Sprinkle with salt & pepper, set aside. In a large skillet, heat butter or olive oil over medium heat. Cook chicken breasts 5 to 7 minutes on one side, then 3 to 5 minutes on the flip side. To serve: Cut open the sweet potatoes and add honey butter to the center. Place two chicken cutlets on the plate and serve. (The honey butter is great on the chicken too).
Emily holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English with emphases in Creative Writing and Journalism. She has been contributing to WLS since 2009.
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Grapes
C
Munch on a Bunch
lusters of colorful grapes are traditional additions to many holiday tables. Whether they are used for a centerpiece, a garnish for the main course (think turkey, crown roast of pork, baked ham) or a “must” addition to a fruit and cheese plate, grapes offer beauty, flavor and freshness to the season. There are many other ways to add grapes to special meals and party fare. The recipes included here are easy-to make, beautiful and tasty examples of unique ways to prepare and serve grapes.
Grape Tuxedo Bites, 3 Ways
Sometimes, the amount of cookies and other sweets served during the holidays can be overwhelming. Grape Tuxedo Bites 3 Ways are the exception. These three recipes, featur ing white and dark chocolate, caramel, toffee bits, almonds and peanuts, are definitely rich, but because the center of each is a refreshing, juicy grape, they avoid being overly sweet.
Chocolate Toffee Grapes Makes 25
25 green or red seedless grapes 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips or chopped semisweet chocolate 1 teaspoon vegetable oil 1/2 cup finely chopped toffee bits
.................................................................. Put toothpicks into grapes, set aside. Line baking sheet with wax paper or parchment. In small double boiler, melt chocolate and oil together over medium-low heat, stirring until melted, about 5 minutes (or in microwave on high power 30 seconds, stirring once). Dip grapes in chocolate and then in toffee. Place on baking sheet lined with wax paper or parchment. Repeat until all grapes are used. Chill until set.
..................................................................
White Chocolate Almond Grapes Makes 25
25 green or red seedless grapes 1/2 cup white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate 1 teaspoon vegetable oil 1/2 cup finely chopped salted almonds Put toothpicks into grapes, set aside. Line baking sheet with wax paper or parchment. In small double boiler, melt chocolate and oil together over medium-low heat, stirring until melted, about 5 min utes (or in microwave on high power 30 seconds, stirring once). Dip grapes in chocolate and then in almonds. Place on baking sheet lined with wax paper or parchment. Repeat until all grapes are used. Chill until set.
..................................................................
Caramel Peanut Grapes Makes 25
25 green seedless grapes 1/2 cup finely chopped salted peanuts 1/2 cup caramel bits or 10 unwrapped caramels 1 tablespoon heavy cream
Put toothpicks into grapes, set aside. Line baking sheet with parchment. Place peanuts in small bowl and set aside. In small saucepan, melt caramel and cream together over medium-low heat, stirring until melted, about 5 minutes. Keep warm. Dip grapes in caramel and then in nuts. Place on baking sheet lined with wax paper or parchment. Repeat until all grapes are used. Chill until set.
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A Gift with a Cause by Angie Hultgren
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ith the holiday season in full swing, you cannot help being in the spirit of giving. Gandhi once said the best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others. You may be the type of person who sponsors a family in need, pays it forward at a coffee shop, or sneaks into a store to pay off a layaway. Especially this time of year, the act of giving comes in many forms. If you find yourself looking for some inspiration, consider the gift of service. What is the gift of service, you may ask? The gift of service takes on a very different spin from your run of the mill holiday gift. Especially when it involves the non-profit organization, Paws With A Cause. There are people who wake up every day without the ability to live the quality of life you might be accustomed to. To live independently, enjoy the simple, everyday tasks, and the ability to achieve them on their own. Paws With A Cause is an organization that provides a properly trained service animal to help those in need. Often, service dogs are perceived as heroes. The “I am working, ask to pet me” coat is like a cape. Behind every superhero is the team that built them. It is difficult to imagine fostering, training and parenting a puppy for over a year, only to pass the dog off to someone else. It is an incredibly heavy burden, but if you aren’t helping, then who is? According to Deb Davis, Community Outreach Manager for Paws With A Cause, by being a foster puppy raiser, you are the instrumental part of the service puzzle. You teach them basic obedience, attend weekly classes, work to socialize and provide a dog-proof home. As a raiser, you are a constant companion to this dog as they are to you. They travel anywhere and everywhere with you in order to expose them to new situations.
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When committing to this task, you know that at the end you’ll have to say goodbye to your temporary companion. Davis says it perfectly, “It is a bittersweet day.” You are sad, although so grateful that for over a year you have prepared this service animal for its very important role in someone’s life. When your puppy is matched with a client in need, all of the hard work and sacrifice you endured is justified because you know you are indirectly enriching someone else’s life. Once a service animal is trained in home, they test to become certified. This certification is the true reflection of a team; this service animal has become a family member. When something is dropped, the animal helps pick it up. If the family member has fallen, the service dog helps locate the phone to call for help. If a door needs to be opened, the dog pushes the button. Life with a service animal is truly remarkable; the sense of peace that is provided for those in need is life changing and life saving. The most important part of this process is to have people willing to pitch in. In 2014, 200 new foster puppy raisers will be needed to help train a Paws With a Cause service animal. That large number means there are 200 people who are in need. The gift of your time can truly change a life. If you are interested in becoming part of the Paws With A Cause team, please visit www.pawswithacause.org. You don’t have to be an experienced trainer. You just need to posess the willingness to learn.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Angie Hultgren spends her days as a Marketing Strategist with the Bengtson Center for Aesthetics & Plastic Surgery. She loves being a cool wife, toddler chaser, amateur writer and professional pet lover.
www.womenslifestylekazoo.com
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HOS_WL_August-2013_Layout 1 8/22/13 2:44 PM Page 1
You have a choice. If you or a loved one need hospice services, remember you have a choice.
For a list of questions you should ask when considering a hospice program, contact us.
Serving our community since 1981 (269) 345-0273 www.hospiceswmi.org
Stocking Stuffers for
Her
Stuffing stockings is a fun and memorable holiday tradition. This year, celebrate by filling stockings with tiny treasures that friends and loved ones will truly adore.
Scent
Embrace the magic of the winter season with soaps, bath salts and body washes in festive scents. Keep your eyes (or nose) open for cinnamon spice, pine, winter berry and peppermint fragrances.
Nails
Of course she wants to have a little glitter and glam during the holidays! Give the women in your life a little sparkle with fun, or and festive nail polishes in colors of red, gold and silver.
Lips
Many women like lip balms that moisturize and shine at the same time. Tuck a few tubes of flavored lip balms into their stocking. Fun flavors include berry, gingerbread, champagne or citrus.
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Create a themed stocking overflowing with special spa gifts. Tuck in herbal tea bags, dark chocolate truffles, candles, a pretty bath loofah and a coordinating bottle of moisturizing body scrub. Drop in a gift card for a visit to a spa.
Hair
Luxury air products are always a treat. Make sure to include her favorite brand of both shampoo and conditioner. Hair accessories in black or red velvet are traditional choices for the holidays. Go a little more exciting with leopard prints, neon colors or rhinestones. Both types are fun for all ages. A trip to the salon makes a great gift too.
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Once you’ve checked stocking stuffers off of your list, throw a few extra items into the shopping cart for yourself. After all, you deserve to shine, shimmer and to smell wonderful during the most magical time of year too.
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Wine Is A Girl ’s Best Friend
Wines to Take the Chill Out of Winter Baby, it’s cold outside! Let’s talk about wine that will help take the chill out of winter. One of my personal favorites, the warm-climate wines of Puglia, Italy. A few wines of note are Primitivo, Aglianico, and Negromaro…all full bodied, boasting complex, spicy flavors to warm my palate and my soul. Interestingly, the climate in which the grapes are grown can provide some solid hints about what’s waiting for you inside the bottle. Much of what ends up in a bottle of wine is determined by the environment in which the grapes are grown and is locked in by harvest time. So knowing a little about the general climatic conditions of the wine will be helpful in making wine buying decisions. Hot climate wines are generally full flavored, big, fruity and rich with higher alcohol and lower acidity. These are the wines I find to be a perfect match for taking the chill out of winter! Easy to remember, right? Warmer climate = warmer wine. Cool climate wines, on the other hand, lean towards subtle fruits with accompanying flavors that are spicy, floral or herbaceous. They tend to be lower in alcohol, higher in acidity and lighter than warm climate wines.
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Hot climate wine regions like California, Australia, South Africa, Southern Italy and the Rhone Valley in southern France have warmer temperatures, more intense sun and a longer growing season than cold weather wine regions like Germany, Austria and Champagne. As a result, grapes grown in these warmer areas are generally able to ripen more fully than grapes grown in cooler areas. As a grape ripens, its internal sugars increase and its natural acids decrease. During fermentation, the grape’s sugars react with yeast to create carbon dioxide and alcohol (the CO2 is released into the atmosphere for still wines – and retained for sparkling wines…aka, bubbles!) There is, therefore, a direct correlation between the amount of sugar in a grape and the potential level of alcohol in the wine made from it. The riper the grape, the more alcohol there can be. Here’s a summary for some general hot vs. cold climate wines: Acidity: You can detect acidity in a wine sometimes by its tart taste. Acidity imparts a refreshing quality to a wine. Hot climate wines = lower acidity Cold climate wines = higher acidity Alcohol: You can detect alcohol in a wine mainly by the warming feeling it generates on the palate. Hot climate wines = higher alcohol Cold climate wines = lower alcohol Body: The body of a wine refers to its weight in your mouth, how thick or heavy it feels. Lighter-bodied wines have a similar weight on the palate to skim milk; heavier-bodied wines more closely resemble whole milk. Hot climate wines = heavier body Cold climate wines = lighter body Of course, these rules are not ironclad, hot climate wine regions can have cooler pockets within them and vice versa, but they are a good starting point.
Christine Skandis founded Skandis Fine Wines, LLC for the purpose is preserving heirloom grape varietals. Christine was inducted into the Dionysian Society International, the world’s oldest wine society, in 2006, currently one of only six women in the world.
December 2013
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Family Concert Dec. 7 @ 3pm
Cakes & Crafts Reception @ 2pm
Performance & Family Dance Party in the Wellspring Theater
year-round registration
Tickets available through Miller Auditorium: 269.387.2300 or www.millerauditorium.com
Info: 269.342.4354 or www.wellspringdance.org
Find us. Follow us. Watch us!
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December 6 Art Hop Various Locations throughout Downtown Kalamazoo. 5 – 9 pm. Art Hop is a free event that features new art exhibits in a fun, casual atmosphere. Numerous galleries and businesses in the downtown area host a variety of artwork. Free. 269-342-5059. www.kalamazooarts.com
It’s easy to get listed in our Events Calendar. Our deadline is the 10th of the month prior to publication. Email us at: calendar@womenslifestylekazoo.com. Please type Calendar in the subject line. December 1 Holidays at the Homestead Kalamazoo Nature Center. 1 – 4 pm. Visit the 1858 DeLano Homestead, try your hand at a craft, enjoy some apple cider and a wagon ride, and more! 269-381-1574. www.naturecenter.org
December 2 – 4 At This Special Time The New Vic Theatre. 8 – 9:15 pm. All seats are $10 unless you have a 2013 New Vic Season Ticket in which case your tickets are free…however reservations are necessary. 269-381-3328. Thenewvictheatre.org
December 1 Jim Brickman, The Magic of Christmas Miller Auditorium. 3 pm. Since the release of his debut album “No Words” in 1994, Jim Brickman’s romantic piano sound has made him the best-selling solo piano artist of our time. $33 - $48. www.millerauditorium.com
December 3 Floral Wreath Series: Winter Season Container Garden MSU W.K. Kellogg Biological Station, Kellogg Bird Sanctuary’s Spruce Lodge. 6 pm. Extend your garden season by filling a paper mache pot with freshly cut local greens, bright stems, berries and other materials. Cost is $50 and includes materials, instruction and a light seasonal meal. (269) 671-2400 kbs.msu.edu/manorhouse
December 1 – 24 Santa’s Workshop Kalamazoo Mall, 157 S Kalamazoo Mall. Santa’s Workshop is a place where families can whisper their wish lists in Santa’s ear, take pictures with their own cameras, spend as much time as they would like, make art projects, and write letters to Santa – all for free. 269-388-2830. www.downtownkalamazoo.org December 1 – 27 Signature Gallery Artists Cooperative 4600 W Main, Kalamazoo. Hours vary. Incredibly handmade gifts and artwork by 30 local member artists. Special open hour/artist reception will be held December 8th from 12 – 5 pm. 269-276-0663. December 1 – 28 A Christmas Carol The New Vic Theatre. Times vary. The 34th annual production of Ted Kistler’s acclaimed stage adaptation of Charles Dickens holiday classic. Many performances sold out, reserve early. $25. 269-381-3328. http://thenewvictheatre.org December 1 – January 3 Season of Light Kalamazoo Valley Museum. Weekdays 11 am, Sat 1 pm, Sun 2 pm. Explore how fires, candles, Christmas Trees, and even Santa Claus became a part of the holiday season. 269-373-7882. www.kvcc.edu December 1 – January 3 Mystery of the Christmas Star Kalamazoo Valley Museum. Sun, Mon, Wed, Fri & Sat 3 pm. Journey back 2000 years to Bethlehem in Mystery of the Christmas Star as researchers seek to discover a scientific explanation for the Star the wise men followed to find the baby Jesus. 2 69-373-7882. www.kvcc.edu December 2 Holiday Celebration Ladies Library Association, 333 S Park St, Kalamazoo. 5 pm networking, 5:30 dinner. Holiday celebration with the International Association of Administrative Professionals. $25. 269-216-2116.
December 3 Mid-Lakes Chorus Barnes & Noble, Portage. 7 – 9 pm. Holiday season fundraiser performance by the MidLakes Chorus Chapter of Sweet Adelines International. 269-694-4355. info@midlakeschorus.com December 3 – 5 Scholastic Book Fairs Holiday Warehouse Book Sale Kalamazoo County Expo Center, Room A. Tues 11 am – 7 pm, Wed 9 am – 7 pm Thur 9 am -3 pm. Large book sale offering deep discounts. 800-543-0112. www.scholastic.com December 3 - 18 Kalamazoo Indoor Flea & Farmers Market Kalamazoo County Expo Center. Tues & Wed 8 am – 2 pm. Come check out the market for some great deals and great merchandise! Free. 269-383-8761. www.kalamazooecpocenter.com December 3 – 30 Annual Commemorative Exhibition Willow Lake Gallery at Parkview Hills, 3707 Greenleaf Circle, Kalamazoo. 9 am – 6 pm. Annual Commemorative Exhibition of Color Nature Photographs by the late Dr. H. Lewis Batts Jr. Free, open to public. 269-3724444. caron.merrow@gmail.com December 4 Holiday Chocolate & Wassailing Parchment Community Library, 401 S. Riverview Dr., Parchment. 6 – 8 pm. Holiday lighting at library, Wassailing events all around town. 269-343-7747 for info. December 5 Transform You Henderson Castle. Welcome 5:30 – 6 pm; Program 6 – 7 pm. Jump start the Holidays… Transform You! Feel energized, sleep better, look good all over before January. Complimentary glass of wine and appetizers. Enjoy the holidays. $5 at door. Must reserve your seat. Call Christy 269-903-9913 before Dec 3rd.
December 6 Blackhawk Jazz & Blues Concert Series Blackhawk Bar & Grill, Richland. Doors open @ 6:30, music 7-10p.m. Featured artists: Kelly Broadway-Houk & Terry Lower (Jazz). $10. 269-731-5388. www.blackhawkgrill.com/jazz December 6 Light Up the Bluff & Live Mannequins! Downtown St. Joseph. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Window displays come alive with Live Mannequins and enjoy Christmas Lights along Lake Bluff Park. 269-985-1111. info@stjoetoday.com
2013 with 340 exhibitors. Free parking & admission. 269-349-1185. craftshows@ charter.net December 8 Dance Out Domestic Violence Zumbathon Lawton High School. 3 – 4 pm for kids and adults, 4 – 5 pm for adults. Led by Zumba instructor Amy Baker to benefit local survivor Mary Teske. Come join the fun for a good cause! $10, children 4–12 $5. More info @ acc4love@aol.com 269-271-5045 December 11 Bookstore Holiday Open House MSU W.K. Kellogg Biological Station, Kellogg Bird Sanctuary. 9 am – 5 pm. Enjoy 15% off unique gift items from local artists and fair trade groups around the world while sampling sweet treats and bird-friendly coffee. Free. (269) 671-2510 kbs.msu.edu/birdsanctuary December 11 Urban Cottage “Wined Down Wednesday” 166 Downtown, Kalamazoo Mall. 5 - 7pm. Bring your girlfriends and enjoy wine and appetizers while taking in great holiday decorating ideas from Jessica Davis, owner of Urban Cottage. 269-250-9064.
December 6 Christmas by Candlelight Zion Luther Church, Paw Paw. 7:30 pm. Holiday season performance by the MidLakes Chorus Chapter of Sweet Adelines International. 269-694-4355. info@ midlakeschorus.com December 6 – 7 Greens & Gifts Sale Kalamazoo Expo Center. 9 am to 7 pm Friday, 9 am to 3 pm Saturday. Wreaths, Swags & Roping. Thousands of handmade item created by gifted Kalamazoo Garden Council Members. This is our 60th year. Free. 269-349-4227. www.kalamazoogardencouncil.org December 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21 Holiday Walk & Market MSU W.K. Kellogg Biological Station, W.K. Kellogg Manor House. 12 – 5 pm. Admire resplendent holiday decor while shopping for unique gifts from local artists and artisans. Hot spiced tea and cookies conclude each tour. $7/adults, $5/seniors & students. (269) 671-2160. kbs.msu.edu/manorhouse December 7 Reindog Parade State Street, downtown St. Joseph. 4 pm. Watch dressed up pets and their owners escort Santa into town. More info @ info@ stjoetoday.com or 269-985-1111. December 7 – 8 Christmas at Wings Wings Stadium, Annex & Cube. Sat 9 am – 4 pm, Sun 10 am – 4 pm. Arts and Craft Show
December 13 – 14 Holiday Walk & Market W.K. Kellogg Manor House. 12 – 5 pm. Each room is creatively decorated by area businesses, interior designers, staff and volunteers. Local artists and artisans sell unique and handcrafted gifts throughout the house. $7 adults, $5 senior & student. 269671-2160. www.kbs.msu.edu/manorhouse December 14 Holiday Expo & Craft Show Kalamazoo County Expo Center (2900 Lake Street). 9 am – 4 pm. Over 100 of your favorite vendors and crafters! Great Holiday shopping for everyone on your list. Moneys7714@sbcglobal.net December 14 Mid-Lakes Chorus Christmas Show Plainwell United Methodist Church, 200 Park Street, Plainwell. 7 pm. Suggested donation $5.00 to benefit MLC. www.midlakeschorus.com December 16 Women In Networking Meeting Special Holiday Meeting at Ladies’ Library, 333 S Park St, Kalamazoo. 6 – 8:30 pm. You’re Invited! Networking, introductions, and special program. Reservations required http://tinyurl.com/win-richland by 12/12. Win.richland@gmail.com
Kalamazoo’s Women’s Lifestyle Magazine is pleased to present the Annual
Greater Kalamazoo
Feb. 28 & March 1, 2014 Friday & Saturday
Women's LifeStyle reaches a dynamic audience of women ages 25 to 65. They are the major decision makers who purchase your goods and services. You won't want to miss this opportunity to market your business on a face-to-face basis at this informative and interactive Expo.
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www.womenslifestylekazooexpo.com
December 2013
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December 20 – 21 21st Annual Greater Kalamazoo Holiday Food Drive Kalamazoo County Expo Center, Expo South. Fri. 6 pm, Sat 9 am – 3 pm. Nonperishable food items collected from local businesses, schools and the South Central Good Bank will be brought in for sorting, counting and delivery. www.kalamazooholidayfooddrive.org December 21 Sounds of the Season Miller Auditorium. 8 pm. A festive concert of seasonal hits and sacred and popular favorites. A treat for the entire family during the most magical time of the year! 269-3497759. http://kalamazoosymphony.com December 21 - 31 Orion Nights Kalamazoo Valley Museum. Tues and Thurs 3 pm, Sat 2 pm. During cold winter nights, the bright stars of Orion the Hunter twinkle overhead. Learn how to find stars within the constellations. 269-373-7882. www.kvcc.edu December 22 Holiday Brunch MSU W.K. Kellogg Biological Station, W.K. Kellogg Manor House. 11 am and 1 pm. Enjoy slow-roasted prime rib with au jus and horseradish sauce, made-to-order omelets, sweet cheese blintzes and other favorites. $27/adults, $16/ages 5-12. 269-671-2160. Kbs.msu.edu/manorhouse
Year’s Eve with two of Kalamazoo’s finest musical gems. $25 in advance, $30 day of show. 269-345-6500. www.kazoostate.com December 31 Ballroom Dance Studio 33 ltd. 7 - 10 pm. Join us as we ring in the year 2014 with style and flair. Ballroom dancing on one of the largest dance floors in SW MI. Singles & couples welcome. $45 per person, includes hors d’oeuvres, champagne toast and party favors. 269-383-4020. www.studio33ltd@sbcglobal.net January 1 – 29 Kalamazoo Indoor Flea & Farmers Market Kalamazoo County Expo Center. Tues & Wed 8 am – 2 pm. Come check out the market for some great deals and great merchandise! Free. 269-383-8761. www.kalamazooecpocenter.com January 2 Storytelling with Jennifer Strauss Kalamazoo Valley Museum. 11 am & 2 pm. Hear and help tell stories about nature, bird songs, and wild music. $3. 269-373-7990. www.kalamazoomuseum.org January 4 Fantastic Rumpus Kalamazoo Public Library Central Branch. 2 – 4 pm. The KIA brings the hands-on activities and KPL staff reads stories from illustrations represented in the fun KIA exhibition, Fantastic Rumpus: 50 Years of Children’s Book Illustrations. 269-349-7775. www.kiarts.org
December 31 New Year’s Eve with Red Sea Pedestrians & Corn Fed Girls State Theatre. 9 pm. Come celebrate New
Reader’s Lounge
Wonder Women: Sex, Power, and the Quest for Perfection By Debora L. Spar $27
Fifty years after the Equal Pay Act, why are women still living in a man’s world? In this groundbreaking and compulsively readable book, Debora L. Spar explores how American women’s lives have and have not changed over the past fifty years. Armed with reams of new research, she details how women struggled for power and instead got stuck in an endless quest for perfection. The challenges confronting women are more complex than ever, and they are challenges that come inherently and inevitably from being female. Spar is acutely aware that it’s time to change course. Both deeply personal and statistically rich, Wonder Women is Spar’s story and a road map for the future.
About the Author
Debora L. Spar is the president of Barnard College, a women’s undergraduate college affiliated with Columbia University. She received her doctorate in government from Harvard University and was the Spangler Family Professor of Business Administration at Harvard Business School
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December 2013
I Am Malala:
The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban By Malala Yousafzai, Christina Lamb $26 When the Taliban took control of the Swat Valley in Pakistan, one girl spoke out. Malala Yousafzai refused to be silenced and fought for her right to an education. On Tuesday, October 9, 2012, when she was fifteen, she almost paid the ultimate price. She was shot in the head at point-blank range while riding the bus home from school, and few expected her to survive. Instead, Malala’s miraculous recovery has taken her on an extraordinary journey from a remote valley in northern Pakistan to the halls of the United Nations in New York. At sixteen, she has become a global symbol of peaceful protest and the youngest nominee ever for the Nobel Peace Prize. I Am Malala is the remarkable tale of a family uprooted by global terrorism, of the fight for girls’ education, of a father who, himself a school owner, championed and encouraged his daughter to write and attend school, and of brave parents who have a fierce love for their daughter in a society that prizes sons. I Am Malala will make you believe in the power of one person’s voice to inspire change in the world.
About the Author
Malala Yousafzai came to public attention at the age of eleven by writing for BBC Urdu about life under the Taliban. Using the pen name Gul Makai, she often spoke about her family’s fight for girls’ education in her community. In October 2012, Malala was targeted by the Taliban and shot in the head as she was returning from school on a bus. She miraculously survived and continues her campaign for education.
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This Holiday Season
support
www.buy local kalamazoo.org
MacKenzies Café Bakery
SiestaSilverJewelry.com
Vitality Wellness Coaching VitalityWellnessCoaching.com
269-383-0025
Wenke Greenhouses Business Services
www.A1PrintingCopyCenter.com 269-381-0093 Express IT Solutions eitsonline.com ForensicFluids.com (269) 492-7700 www.Rentalex.com (269) 978-9700
Health, Beauty & Wellness AbsoluteHomecare.info (269) 324-8080
NaturalHealthFoodCenter.com (269) 342-9459 www.MastecOnline.com 269-373-6223
Sawall Health Foods sawallhf.com
www.Chocola-Tea.com 7642 S. Westnedge Prtg.
SolSpring Massage, Spa & More www.solspring.net
Comensolis.com (269) 345-6755
VitalityWellnessCoaching.com 269-383-0025
MacKenzies Café Bakery www.mackenziesbakery.com
Home Services
Media, Marketing & Technology
TheBetterWorldBuilders.com 269-383-7862 Jaqua Realtors – Audrey DeVault 269-207-3411 Loedeman's Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning loedeman.com
Hospitality Ample Pantry 269-375-8300
Ad Shop, etc. adshopetc.com
Egg Head Deals eggheaddeals.com www.GreatDealsMagazine.com (269) 321-0620 WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com (269) 569-1647
Retail
DouglasAndSon.com (269) 344-2860 Heilman’s Nuts & Confections www.nuts2you.com Kazoo Books kazoobooks.com www.LawtonRidgeWinery.com (269) 372-9463 Lee's Adventure Sports leesadventuresports.com Mercantile-Kitchenware.com Oakwood Plaza • 3017 Oakland Dr
www.PJsFrameUp.com 269-323-2170 www.siestasilverjewelry.com (269) 548-7300 V & A Bootery vabootery.com Vandenberg Furniture 12000 N US 131 Hwy, Schoolcraft www.Wedels.com (269) 345-1195 Wenke Greenhouses Corner of Sprinkle & Market - Comstock
Neighborhood Cleaners Kalamazoo – Portage – Mattawan
Nursery, Florist & Garden Center
Teresa Brautigam was devastated. A fibroid tumor was standing between her and the college graduation she had dreamed of for longer than 20 years. That’s where connecting with caring doctors and leading technology made all the difference. The doctors at Borgess used minimally invasive robotic surgery to help Teresa recover in days, not weeks, putting her back on track for graduation. See her incredible story or share your own at ThatsWhere.com.
ThatsWhere.com A member of Ascension HealthÂŽ