Matters of the Heart - February 2009

GrEater Kalamazoo

February 2009

Essential • Enlightening • Entertaining

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Romancing the Senses

Soul Delicious & Healthy Recipes

Look Who’s Talking Dr. Terry Baxter Chief Medical Officer

Ideas, Tips & Inspiration

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“Love warms our hearts, even in the coldest of winters”. When I came across this quote recently, I knew it was perfect for the February issue of Women’s Lifestyle.

After all, February is considered by many to be the month of love, and this is certainly the coldest of winters.

As I write this, we are having the coldest weather of the season, with temperatures below zero. That is why we’ve filled this issue with things that will warm our hearts and comfort our souls during these long days of winter. We will focus on matters of the heart and throw in a good dose of all that makes Valentine’s Day so special. I’m not sure if it’s the candy or the splashes of cheery red and lovely white lace, but I love Valentine’s Day and can’t wait to share some great ideas on how to make this holiday even more special.

Love is a matter of the heart! So let’s get serious for a moment and focus on our hearts. Literally, heart disease is the number one killer of American women. With that in mind, we have included some excellent information from the American Heart Association and their Go Red for Women program. We have suggestions about exercise, eating right, possible warning signs, local events and more. As women, we are usually fall prey to the demands of taking care of everyone else first and then, only if there’s a little time left over, do we focus on ourselves. A smart woman needs to know that she won’t be able to take care of everyone else if she fails to take care of herself. In the long run, everyone suffers if that happens. So be smart and take care of yourself!

I’m thrilled to tell you that the magazine this month is full of great ideas, fashion tips, and recipes to get you ready for Valentine’s Day. The recipes are a great combination of romantic foods that are good for your heart and soul. There are also some great ideas for creating your own romantic get away right at home! Our homes should be our safest, most

romantic hideaways, but too often we get caught up in the hectic pace of our lives and forget to tune out the world and tune in our loved ones.

I encourage you to take the time this Valentine’s Day to do just that!

We are pleased to bring you two new columns this month. First, I am thrilled to introduce Rochelle Petts who will help us navigate the tricky ins and outs of our computers. She has a big heart for busy women like us, who don’t think they can take the time to keep their computers up to date and functioning at their optimum capacity. She knows it can be done and how to do it! It is also my pleasure to introduce Judy Adlam who will help us gain insight into one of the most challenging acts of love today, caring for aging loved ones.

We hope you enjoy your February edition.

While you are enjoying this one, we will be hard at work on our March edition. The focus for March will be “Let’s Eat”, so you can look forward to many great recipes and ideas about cooking and the kitchen!

From our hearts to yours, Happy Valentines Day!

Greater Kalamazoo

February 2009 Contents Interior Ideas Sanctuary: The Master Suite.............................................................................. 8 Create Your Own Romantic Getaway.............................................................. 28 Conquer Your Clutter: Control Your Collections.............................................. 30 Healthy LifeStyle Heart Attack Warning Signs for Women.......................................................... 10 Top Ways To Help Children Develop Health Habits......................................... 10 10 Ways to Love Your Heart............................................................................ 20 Exercise Your Heart.......................................................................................... 20

TABLE OF CONTENTS

From the Publisher

Love To Eat Out?............................................................................................. 20 Winning the Fight Against Heart Disease: 3 Women’s Story............................ 22 Healthy Ideas Stroke: Know the Five Signs & Act Quickly...................................................... 16 Sure-Fire Diet Boosters..................................................................................... 16 Good Bacteria?................................................................................................ 16

Darlene

Broaden Your Horizons The Game of Love............................................................................................. 4

YOU SHOULD KNOW: Last month we

wrote about 3 local authors (and speakers.)

The article indicated that the books could be obtained from the publishers.

Please know that those books may also be purchased directly from the authors!

You may contact them directly using their email addresses at: Terri Girardi at: info@galesburgcrossings.com, Marlene Lawson at: Ip3ministry@aol.com (use capital “I” in the email address) and Jan Edwards at: mized@ctsmail.net

Humor: For the Love of Pete.............................................................................. 6 Manners Count: Etiquette For Sweethearts........................................................ 6 Love In Action: Caregivers of Aging Adults...................................................... 11 Volunteers Fill Void For Seniors........................................................................ 11 Forgiving Without Words................................................................................. 14 Reader’s Lounge.............................................................................................. 34 Business & Finance IT – For Busy Women...................................................................................... 13 Networking with the Kalamazoo Network....................................................... 13 Financial Sauve 101 – Caring for Yourself & Your Loved Ones......................... 21 Work It! You Can Work at Home..................................................................... 31

Greater Kalamazoo

Looking & Feeling Good Fitness for Couples - Bonding.......................................................................... 24 Look Who’s Talking Terry Baxter M.D............................................................................................. 17

THE PEOPLE WHO MAKE IT HAPPEN: Publisher Darlene Clifford Contributing Writers Madeline Zackery The Kalamazoo Network Rochelle Petts Judy Adlam

Advertising Executive Ruth Ann Dibert Sales Manager Layout and Design Jonathan Guinn, Guinn Design

CONTACT US

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

By Email: wlskazoo@provide.net

By Mail: Kalamazoo Women’s Lifestyle, P.O. Box 228, Portage, MI 49081-2284 website: www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

A Taste of Something New Soul Delicious & Heart Healthy Chicken with Peach Glaze............................................................................... 32 Jamaican Jerk Shrimp & Vegetable Kebabs...................................................... 32 Pineapple Upside-Down Cake.......................................................................... 33 Curried Pork and Sweet Potato Stew............................................................... 33 Local News & Events Calendar.......................................................................................................... 26 Go Red For Women Events.............................................................................. 22

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

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• February 2009

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Love

The Game of

by Angela Klinske

How do I Love Thee – Let Me Count the Ways This love-filled narrative reveals all of Women’s Lifestyle Magazine’s favorite romantic movies and perhaps some of yours. Can you find them all? Circle or underline your finds. Here’s a hint: There are 75 in all!

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efore sunrise, Sabrina took a walk in the clouds with Dr. Zhivago. They arrived in the City of Angels for what was supposed to be an affair to remember.

“There’s something about Mary,” he said of another pretty woman. “She’s all that.”

“You’re clueless,” she replied, and thus, the forces of nature triggered the breakup – a failure to launch love at first bite if you will, and this runaway bride called off the wedding singer.

“You’ve got mail,” said her Blackberry, and in an instant she was gone with the wind to Casablanca. Upon her arrival, she found the notebook, inscribed with the words, “I miss the way we were.”

Filled with pride and prejudice and just a tinge of serendipity, she stopped to have breakfast at Tiffany’s. Perusing the menu and contemplating to have or have not, she wondered, is this as good as it gets?

Six days, seven nights and then gone in a splash?

“Love actually feels just like heaven,” she heard a ghost whisper. She listened to the music and lyrics to One Fine Day as she pursed her lips against the tin cup of coffee. As she realized something’s gotta give, her heart sank like the Titanic. Finally, she mustered the strength of King Kong and wrote out

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a list of 10 things I hate about you and what’s mine, yours and ours.

Making sense and sensibility of what women want, this working girl realized she had never been kissed, knew all too well how to lose a guy in 10 days, and thought about jumping out the rear window. Moonstruck and sleepless in Seattle, she headed to the place where Harry met Sally and cried over her 50 first dates. Suddenly, she was swept far and away by the phantom of the opera.

Off they went somewhere in time.

Enchanted, she thought this felt a lot like love.

After spending an autumn in New York, she gave her two weeks’ notice, hired the wedding planner and asked her best friend Annie Hall to be made of honor.

She tried on 27 dresses (she looked pretty in pink) and planned a downto-earth affair that rivaled my big fat Greek wedding.

Along came Polly, Mr. Deeds, Kate and Leopold and they were all bringing down the house, dirty dancing to Sweet Home Alabama while you were sleeping.

Within nine months she was knocked up and America’s sweethearts lived happily ever after.

It could happen to you…

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• February 2009

Etiquette for Sweethearts

by Madeline Zackery and let her, know. Help her with her coat by holding it while she puts it on and takes it off. Open the car door for her when she gets in and out.

Also open the entrance door as she enters and exits. Be sure to help her with her chair at the dinner table.

By Roxanne O’Neil

Rules for Her You too, should plan ahead to make Valentines Day a special day for your guy.

I’m still not exactly sure who Pete is or when he came into my life, but I think I just may love him. Perhaps my great-grandmother knew Pete; I’m not certain because I never met her, but I know my grandmother knew and cared a great deal for him and from what I can tell, loving Pete seems to be generational in our family.

I think the first time I heard his name was when the awful Waldorf salad Grandmother insisted I eat ended up under her hand-woven rug. I can still remember her asking if I had finally finished my salad (after leaving me alone with it for hours in a room with a large rug), and my responding with a, “Why, yes ma’am and my dish is in the sink.” This was shortly followed by a “For the love of Pete” coming from the dining room. I naively entered the room thinking I would be meeting somebody new, but instead I saw my grandmother on the floor scraping Waldorf salad from the bottom of her rug. When I asked where Pete was, she gave me a look which let me know that asking any more questions might be a mistake.

Then there was the time when I was about 12 and insisted on showering, ironing jeans and doing my hair before going to the farmers’ market with her. This time Pete, the depression, spoiled children and indulgent parents were all mentioned in rather rapid succession.

My mother also knew and loved Pete. Her mother probably introduced her to him. “For the love of Pete” was hollered when I decided that gluing down all of my mom’s knick-knacks would make my job of dusting much easier. What loving Pete had to do with this I didn’t understand, but I did by this time know for a fact that mentioning the name Pete did not imply company was in the house.

Pete was there for me for the first time as a young teen. Having secretly tried to shape my eyebrows with a razor (like all my friends were doing) I instead came downstairs crying with - you guessed it, one eyebrow. My mother’s suggestion that the only real solution to my lopsided look was to shave off the remaining brow, tearfully brought my first “for the love of Pete” response.

My own children may have also been introduced to Pete by name only many times over the years. I still remember returning home from an evening out to find a rather large hole in the living room wall. When questioned, neither of my children seemed to have any idea how this had happened. Ghosts, the dog, and something about strangers who came in the house and threw a hard ball at the wall, then ran out the door, all deserved Pete’s love, as did smashed cars, report cards, certain decisions and so much more.

So, maybe loving Pete only keeps an adult from saying things to children that, although obvious, may hurt their feeling or involve swearing. Anyway, during this month of love I would like to thank Pete for taking the heat off ugly situations and to request that if he sees his cousin Pete Sake, to please say hello for me.

Roxanne would also like to send her sentiments to Chip on someone’s shoulder, Betsy in heaven, and Jehosophat, who can’t ever seem to stop jumping.

If he is taking you out, please don’t keep him waiting for hours - he may have reservations.

Valentines Day is just a few days away and whether this is your first Valentines Day or one of many that you have enjoyed together, you will want to do something special for your sweetheart. Some of you may have planned a romantic getaway, perhaps dinner out and a movie, or a romantic candlelight dinner that you will personally prepare for this special day. Whatever you have planned, a sure way to impress your sweetheart is to use your best manners.

For nearly 40 years, many have referred to me as the “Expert on Etiquette” and I have put together a few special tips on “Etiquette for Sweethearts”. I hope you will try them for Valentines Day and continue to use your etiquette everyday. It will make a difference in your relationship.

Rules for Him Don’t wait until the last minute to plan something special for your sweetheart. She will appreciate the time you spent planning that special day.

Remember to tell her how beautiful she looks. When a lady gets all dressed up she wants you to notice. Treat your sweetheart like a lady, not only on this day but everyday.

When your date is using his best manners like opening the door for you, helping you with your coat, etc. always say thank you!

If this is your first date, the best advice is not to order the most expensive thing on the menu. He may be on a limited budget.

Use your best table manners - remember eating utensils are never held vertically.

If you are making dinner for your spouse, make it a special evening; hire a babysitter (if you need one), and treat him like a “King”.

If he doesn’t get a chance to see you “dress up” often, surprise him by dressing up. Treat yourself to a makeover for this special day.

Using your best manners can make Valentines Day even more special.

Good etiquette shows that special person in your life that you care.

My husband John and I began our romance on Valentines Day. We have now been married for over 38 years. I must say - what impressed me the most about him, at that time, were his manners. He always treated me so special and was quite a gentleman. And I am proud to say, he still is! Happy Valentines Day!

If you are taking her out, be on time.

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

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

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition• February 2009

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition• February 2009

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The Master Suite hen life is hectic and you’re frazzled from dusk to dawn, it’s easy to forget that the master bedroom is not a dumping ground for unfinished laundry and other household chores.

The master bedroom is meant to be a comforting retreat that recharges and revives you so that you can face your life with a clear and fresh outlook. With a heap of unmatched socks all over your bed, recharging is not an easy task.

How about leaving the socks in the laundry room and imagining what sort of space really relaxes you. For design inspiration think of a favorite vacation spot or travel destination and replicate its ambience in your bedroom. Create a calming environment that takes you away from your day. First, consider the color of your walls.

To start with, Behr.com recommends choosing quiet, muted colors for the walls.

Muted colors are soothing, comforting and calming, lending themselves well to sleep and relaxation. Keep the bold, vivid hues in your more public spaces, such as the living areas and the kitchen, and out of your personal oasis.

It may seem subtle, but a neutral color scheme is an excellent choice. Nuetrals are earthy, such as creams, tans and light browns and offer flexibility, allowing you the option of making subtle changes to suit your mood or design tastes. The cool color family, such as blues and greens are psychologically calming and evoke feelings of peace and tranquility. Think sky and water when choosing cool colors. Also, cooler colors recede visually, making your room appear larger than it really is. Opposite on the color wheel are the warm colors of buttery yellow, peach or delicate pink.

These lovely colors create a soothing ambience. Think warm sunshine or the glow of candle light when applying these colors to your sanctuary design.

Again, consider that favorite destination. For example while you may love the tropical pinks, blues and greens that are so prominent in, say, Key West, Fl., reflect that look and feel with the warm, sandy color of the beach or the crisp, clear blue of the sky. Include a complementary green that represents the palm trees. Concentrate on the relaxing ambience and natural elements that you enjoy so well in the Keys rather than the obvious commercial colors that jump out at you while you’re there.

The master bedroom as a sanctuary includes not only the right paint color to create the perfect mood but also appropriate furniture pieces. To match or not to match, that is often the question. Clearly, you need a bed to sleep in and a place for everything and everything in its place (remember those socks?). If you’re sleeping on a mattress without a headboard and using a hand-me-down dresser and night stands, not to worry. There is no reason why you need to wait until the bedroom suite of your dreams goes on sale to have the beautiful room you deserve. This step takes

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by Julie Hogan

you back to the paint. Old, outdated furniture can and will look beautiful with a couple coats of paint and new knobs or pulls. When you paint your nightstands and dresser the same color and use the same hardware on each piece, you’ve not only created a lovely bedroom group, but also saved yourself hundreds of dollars.

Black paint with a satin finish is a favorite choice of mine. A complementary color from your wall choice would also be a fantastic. Choose new hardware (knobs and pulls) that pop and all the odd pieces will suddenly match. That mattress without a headboard can look complete with a curtain rod hung above the bed, covered with a lovely fabric to complement your bedding. Complete your sanctuary with adequate lighting on each side of the bed and a comfortable chair to read in and you have created a master bedroom environment that soothes and provides peace in a hectic world.

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

JHDesignStudio625.com.

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• February 2009

Ad 2.psp

Heart Attack Warning Signs for Women

Top Ways to Help Children Develop Healthy Habits

Some heart attacks are sudden and intense, but most of them start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Often the people affected aren’t sure what’s wrong and wait too long before getting help. Here are some of the signs that can mean a heart attack is happening: Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back.

It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.

Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.

Shortness of breath. This feeling may occur with or without chest discomfort.

Be a positive role model. If you’re practicing healthy habits, it’s a lot easier to convince children to do the same.

• Get the whole family involved. Take walks, ride bikes, go swimming, garden or just play hide-and-seek outside.

• Limit TV, video game and computer time. These habits lead to sedentary lifestyle and excessive snacking, which increase risks for obesity and cardiovascular disease.

• Encourage physical activities that children really enjoy.

They’ll stick with it longer if they love it.

• Be supportive. Everyone likes to be praised for a job well done. Celebrate successes and help children and teens develop a good self-image.

Other signs: These may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness. As with men, women’s most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or discomfort. But women are somewhat more likely than men to experience some of the other common symptoms particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, and back or jaw pain.

• Set specific goals and limits, such as one hour of physical activity a day or two desserts per week other than fruit.

If you or someone you are with has chest discomfort, especially with one or more of the other signs, don’t wait longer than five minutes before calling for help. Call 9-1-1. Calling 9-1-1 is almost always the fastest way to get lifesaving treatment. Emergency medical services (ems) staff can begin treatment when they arrive — up to an hour sooner than if someone gets to the hospital by car.

The staff members are also trained to revive someone whose heart has stopped.

And you will get treated faster in the hospital if you arrive by ambulance.

• Don’t reward children with food. Find other ways to celebrate good behavior.

• Make dinnertime family time. Get the kids involved in cooking and planning meals.

• Make a game of reading food labels. The whole family will learn what’s good for their health and be more conscious of what they eat.

Want to get your kids involved in planning healthy meals?

If you’re the one having symptoms and you can’t access emergency medical Try these Web sites for healthy tips and recipes: services (ems), have someone drive you to the hospital right away. Don’t drive www.americanheart.org/magcookbooks yourself, unless you have absolutely no other option. www.healthiergeneration.org Courtesy www.GoRedForWomen.org

PICK UP OUR MAGAZINE AT THESE FINE BUSINESS & MANY MORE! Hardings Friendly Markets, D & W Fresh Markets Felpausch Food Centers, Curves, & many Fine Beauty Salons, Coffee Shops, Physicians Offices And Local Libraries KALAMAZOO Alamo Depot Anytime Fitness Art Bayou Chamber of Commerce Copy Cup Earthly Delights Full City Cafes Irving’s Market & Deli Kalamazoo College Kalamazoo Valley Community College Kalamazoo Humane Society Lana’s Boutique Merle Norman Studio & Hair Salon Michigan News Agency North Eleven

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Oakwood Bistro Passifloral Radisson Sawall Health Foods Smeelink Optical Sticks & Stones The Union Cabaret & Grill Water Street Coffee Joints Western Michigan University Wild Goose Chase Women’s Health Care Specialists Zoo City

Eve’s Salon Spa Gift Loft Lakeside Mercantile Modern Flooring America Mole Hole Romence Gardens Smeelink Optical Studio 24 Super Suppers Third Coats Futons & Furniture

PORTAGE ChocolaTea Cookies By Design Derby Financial Full City Café

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• February 2009

AUGUSTA A Food Affair GALESBURG Grant’s Antique Market Koffee Klutch Sensations Salon MATTAWAN Rusty Rabbit West Michigan Carpet OTSEGO Otsego Antiques Mall Amish Furniture

PAW PAW Brewsters St. Julian’s Winery That Coffee Place Women’s Health Care Specialists PLAINWELL Ritz Salon Borgess Family Medicine RICHLAND Beadin’ Path Blue Water Gallery Chaubrei Gardens Gull Lake Chiropractic SCHOOLCRAFT Big Island Quilt Co. Grand Central Plaza VICKSBURG LeBronze Tanning Simmon’s Ford Yogi’s Restaurant

Love In Action:

Volunteers Fill Void for Seniors Needing Aid, Companionship

C aregivers o f A ging A d u l ts

After more than a quarter century living on her own in senior housing, 95-year-old Cornelia Kane of Philadelphia finally needed help.

C

I used to be able to do things myself, but now with my health concerns, I need more assistance, said Kane. Kane’s situation represents a growing need among America’s seniors: Not ready to live with full-time care, many still need a helping hand to get through daily routines.

By 2030, the number of Americans ages 80 and older is expected to rise from 9.3 million (in 2000) to 10.5 million, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. With this increased average life span comes an increased demand on resources from health to social services. Volunteer-based organizations, such as Little Brothers - Friends of the Elderly (LBFE), who assist Kane in her Philadelphia home, are stepping in to fill a growing need.

Just hearing her voice makes me feel good, Kane says about the LBFE volunteer who visits her. “My family lives a long distance and come to stay with me when they can.

Yet having someone to check on me every day, even if it’s just to talk, is a real jewel in my life.”

Older Americans spend less time socializing and communicating as they age, according to the “Older Americans 2008: Key Indicators of Well-Being” report issued by the Federal Interagency Forum on Aging-Related Statistics. In fact, Americans between the ages of 55 and 64 spend 13 percent of their leisure time doing activities like visiting friends and attending social events, while that proportion decreases to 10 percent for those 75 years and older.

It is important when we think of the needs of older adults today that we focus not just on their physical needs, but also on the importance of companionship and friendship, says Lea Ames, national executive director of LBFE. Isolation and loneliness can produce emotional pain as well as mental and physical deterioration. Social networking can have a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of seniors. University of Chicago researchers found that lonely older adults had greater age-related increases in blood pressure and poorer sleep quality than elderly who are more socially active.

What can you do to help?

• Perhaps you have an elderly neighbor who doesn’t have the support of family or friends in the area or an older adult that you regularly see in the grocery store on their own. See if they would be interested in having someone visit them or help with errands. Community service starts with one person, one action.

• Intergenerational relationships can have a positive impact on older and younger adults. Consider organizing a group of students from the local school or a scout troop to come visit older adults in your community’s senior housing project or assisted living facility.

• If you have a parent or older relative that lives a longer distance from you and needs companionship or assistance, contact the local Chamber of Commerce to see if there are services or agencies available.

• Don’t underestimate the impact that companionship or a friendly gesture can have on someone, especially an older adult who may lack strong social networks. Reach out to that person, and think of how your life will be enriched by making a new friend and helping out someone at the same time.

aring for an aging loved one is an excellent example of love in action.

It is a love that has history—memories and roles that color interactions in a variety of ways. The memories are, at times, the fuel that drives a person to become a caregiver. At times, the history complicates matters, adding bumps in the path that make the process less than smooth. Caregiving is not perfect love but shows its real beauty in the steadfast attempts that caregivers make to achieve some sort of satisfaction for all involved.

Most caregivers are spouses or adult children caring for a parent, though I have come across a variety of friends and family members who take on the role. Sometimes caregiving is a gradual process and sometimes there is a specific event which leads to a need for assistance. In either case, family caregivers find themselves with responsibilities that are new to them while continuing to attend to previous responsibilities. Most caregivers take on the new responsibilities with a willing heart and great hopes for a close and warm caregiving experience.

Caregivers are nurturing by definition and often come across the issue of safety versus independence early on in the relationship. Caregivers want their loved one safe.

Care receivers value their independence. All but the most compliant of care receivers may have a different opinion of what constitutes “safe”. Adult children will make arrangements for elderly parents to have assistance with household chores and/or yard work only to have those parents insist it is not necessary or too expensive. Spouses will disagree about whether or not he should be on a ladder cleaning gutters or whether she should attempt the basement stairs. Physical safety is a serious consideration for families, and there may be disagreement about what activities should or should not be performed. Bear in mind that the best caregiving respects the dignity of all involved— caregivers need to discuss concerns, listen to responses, assess the soundness of judgment, look for compromise and take action when lives are at imminent risk.

Memory loss or a diagnosis of dementia will often impair judgment and the issue of safety vs. independence attains a new level. Persons with dementia are often not able to discern what is reasonable and what is not. There is a saying that you cannot win an argument with a person with Alzheimer’s Disease. A caregiver is then challenged to affect behavior without turning to a battle of wills. Caregivers can be extremely creative in the ways in which they redirect, cajole, delay and/or otherwise change the intent and/or interest of a loved one with memory loss. Being “reasonable” becomes an art form and allows caregivers to avoid the very contentious situation of arguing to the point of defeat, continuing to respect the dignity of all involved.

The creative capacity of caregiving may be surprising to some. Much of the adaptations that have to be made for a positive experience will fall to the caregiver. Expectations as to what the relationship will be like may or may not be fulfilled. It is important that caregivers not become too disappointed if the situation does not proceed as expected. It is a continual process of searching for ways to create a winning situation for both caregiver and care recipient. It will involve trial and error. Each caregiver must find out what works for their situation on any given day. Tomorrow may require a totally new strategy.

Acts of love are often thought of through a fuzzy filter of total devotion and lack of disagreement. Caregivers and care recipients experience a more rugged love, but a very true and beautiful love, nonetheless.

After living on her own in senior housing for 26 years, Cornelia Kane turns to volunteer Barbara Ginhardt of Little Brothers - Friends of the Elderly for help and support.

MSW BA Sociology Judy Adlam, M.S.W.is the Assistant Director for Covenant Senior Day Program in Portage. She has worked with Seniors at Covenant for over 10 years. In 1999 she created and continues to facilitate the Caregivers Support Group. She is an active member and writer for the Michigan Adult Day Service Association- a coalition of Adult Day Service providers.

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• February 2009

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition• February 2009

Kalamazoo/Portage 269.329.2900 800.273.3990 3200 W. Centre Ave, Suite 201 Portage, MI 49024

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Protect Your Business With A Company Network Imagine the Impact She wasn’t trying to undermine the business, she was just busy. What Clare didn’t understand is that ignoring those pesky software update messages made her computer vulnerable to virus attack. She (and her boss) found out the hard way when the company’s accounting records were corrupted.

Amy owns a small customer service company. She and her staff of three work hard to streamline processes, doing more with less. But, everyday they waste precious time wading through and deleting SPAM email.

At ABC Inc. Betty employs two salespeople besides herself. They are spending more time out of the office and are clamoring for laptops. She is concerned about them using unsecure public Wi-Fi sites or home connections. She is wondering how to provide the technology her employees need and protect her company information assets at the same time.

Each of these companies use computers as an essential part of running the business, but their computing platforms haven’t kept pace with their business requirements. In each case, a cost-effective solution is a company network. Not only will a network improve each situation, it will deliver many additional benefits.

Network Basics For the sake of this discussion, the term network is defined as: • • •

A group of computers that are connected through cabling or wireless connection to A dedicated computer called a server that provides a centralized location for software, data, and services (such as back-up or printer sharing) and is controlled by a Network Operating System (NOS), which is specialized software that delivers most of the capabilities that make networks so effective for business. The capabilities discussed in this article will refer primarily to network operating systems from Microsoft.

Many organizations share files or printers through Windows File Share (also known as peer-to-peer networking). This type of network, although it allows users to share files and devices, does not provide the types of server/client networking features discussed below.

Network Benefits So, how would a network improve each of the situations above?

Had Clare’s computer been attached to a network, the decision to apply software updates would have been out of her hands. Instead, the NOS would be set-up to “push” updates and patches from the server to all of the computers on the network. Many of these changes happen in the background, requiring no user intervention. If an update requires a computer re-boot Clare has the option do it at a later time. However, it won’t be forgotten.

The NOS identifies computers that are out of compliance with current updates so that the company IT staff or service provider can follow-through.

To solve Amy’s problem the network operating system has the ability to differentiate SPAM from legitimate email messages. The NOS uses sophisticated program code to accomplish this task and sends SPAM directly to a Junk Email folder. The software has the ability to “learn” over time what incoming emails are okay. For instance, if Amy sends an email the incoming reply is assumed legitimate. The bottom line for Amy and her staff is that they can quickly access the email they need to process in their Inbox and not be distracted by junk email.

With a network in place Betty can implement a Virtual Private Network (VPN) that provides the security her company needs for remote access. The VPN will authenticate users connecting from outside the office and ensure that they are legitimate employees.

It will also provide a secure “tunnel” for the information that is sent from her employee’s laptop over the Internet to her network in the office.

These are just three examples (there are many more) of how a network can provide a secure, reliable and expandable computing platform for your company. The falling cost of hardware as well as network operating systems designed for small business put this technology well within the reach of many small companies.

Rochelle Petts is a principal in Realign LLC, and specializes in helping small and mid-sized organizations streamline their business process. Rochelle has over 20 years experience in the corporate arena as an Information Technology Professional. She has held various management positions responsible for corporate-wide computing as well as project management positions for local and global initiatives.

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

What’s working well in marketing your business? In today’s economy, where do I focus my resources?

In a slow economy, it is natural to reduce your advertising budget and rethink marketing strategies. Here are a few inexpensive ways to stay in front of your customers without losing your behind.

1. Market to your existing customers. The people you regularly do business with are the most likely to remain loyal to you; contact them on a regular basis. A simple phone call still can generate leads and dollars. Consider sending handwritten note cards or letters just to keep in touch. Communicate with them now more than ever before.

2. Use email as a marketing tool. Consider sending an electronic newsletter periodically—one with tips and market insights that are useful for your clients.

3. Use public relations to generate exposure.

Most businesses have some kind of newsworthy activities throughout the year. If your company has recently expanded, moved, or if you have a new service to offer, tell the media about it.. If you do not have the time, you might hire a professional copywriter.

- Wanda Myrick, Owner, myrick design studio Having three businesses and the number one marketing is still word of mouth. If you can incorporate some type of referral program, with existing customers to spread the word, it doesn’t have to be much, especially if they are very happy with your product/service. The second biggest for my husband’s businesses are yard signs. With construction, this works well. People start seeing your signs everywhere and the cost is much less than billboards, etc.

- Jill Neese, Energy Within, Reiki & Urevia Master Kathy, owner of Studio 24 SalonSpa writes: Our Holiday Open House broke the past year’s records in attendance and sales and, even in a challenging economy, I believe the number one factor in generating interest, sales, and client numbers, is focusing on creating what your market needs and wants. We’d been asked as early as August what the date of our Open House this year was going to be, and establishing a FUN Event that was packed with attractive shopping and informational offerings was key to generating excitement and a large work-of-mouth network.

We are dedicated to focusing our energies on our Guests, and pledge to create an atmosphere of “Ultimate Welcome”, by exceeding expectations, with the highest levels of creativity and skill.

Most businesses need customers. For a start-up, marketing = sales, and normally not much $$ for nice literature. Sales = phone calls, emails, networking, conferences, and presentations. Sales = talking to hundreds (if not thousands) of people, and closing the deal. Otherwise you will only stay in business until your money runs out!

- Bridget Lemberg, Forensic Fluids Joining BNI (Business Network Int’l) has proved to be a successful investment of time and resources for my business. The group’s focus is on providing referrals to its members. Trust is crucial in securing new business. When a BNI member refers another business - that foundation of trust is already built before I even speak with the potential client. BNI is a valuable resource and worth the investment.

- Mary Beth Esquibel, Owner, A Single Ray of Hope Marketing success in 2008 was spelled “right place, right time”. If I was in front of someone who needed my type of service, at the time that they needed it, it resulted in new business. I can’t say that advertising or any other more traditional type of marketing activity was anywhere near as large in providing results.

- Gail M. Turluck CRPC®, Ameriprise Financial The jottings has worked pretty well for me. I think going to the service clubs, etc., doing presentations in front of many people at a time would give some great exposure quickly. Right now, my job is to educate the public on this new service as inexpensively as possible. Find as many “free” or inexpensive ways to advertise as possible, internet advertising, cold calling, networking, presentations.

- Robin Hall/Owner, Senior Move Assistance, LLC I find that networking as many ways as possible. I am also a member of Business Network International (BNI). The longer I am in the group, the more referrals I can give and the more I recieve. And think of the other person’s needs for their business, before your own.

- Joyce Hare, Healing Moments Massage and Bodywork.

Sandy Derby owns her own financial agency: Derby Financial.

She is currently serving as President of the Kalamazoo Network.

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• February 2009

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

Without Words Janice Lynne Lundy no matter our loved one’s choice of behavior, we will always hope to keep our heart open, compassion written upon its door post. We will try to understand and forgive – without the usual prerequisite of bending, bowing or groveling – because we know that through their own unwise choice, they are conflicted within themselves. We are able to forgive without words because we love without barriers.

The Blessings of an Apology

On the other hand, there is cleansing value in offering an apology when one has erred. By saying we are sorry, the air is cleared. We also clear out the clutter of our own mind. We are better able to identify and give voice to troublesome emotions or behavior patterns when we are able to perceive the error of our ways.

By owning up to them, by apologizing, as humbling as the act can be, we will actually begin to feel better about ourselves. And, we get to learn something new about ourselves, too, which is always a good thing.

By receiving an apology, we are invited into graciousness. When our loved one says, ever so sincerely, “I’m sorry,” we are beckoned to lay down the gauntlet and engage hospitably. We open our hearts, open our arms, and welcome them in.

Accepting an apology gently, graciously, softens us.

It reunites us as friends and lovers, deepening our intimacy in profound ways. Apologizing is an act that has tremendous healing benefits for both the giver and the receiver. alentine’s Day is one of those rose-laden holidays that comes with its fair share of thorns. As February 14 rolls around, we may find ourselves reflecting on celebrations of the past: those that made our hearts dance with joy, as well as those that sorely disappointed. Yet isn’t that the nature of love itself? Romantic love, any day of the year, can lift us to the heights of bliss or cast us into the depths of despair. It seems to me that we might appreciate love in all its guises a bit more if we could give a little more of ourselves, minimize our expectations, and keep our hearts open to one another.

“Love Means Never Having to Say You’re Sorry.”

The first time I heard this phrase was in 1971. I was 15 years old. Sitting in a darkened movie theater, holding my boyfriend’s hand, I sobbed uncontrollably as a dying Ali McGraw uttered this now famous sentiment to Ryan O’Neil. The words flowed from her lips into my heart but, truthfully, I wasn’t sure what they really meant. I was an idealistic and naive teen.

I thought they sounded romantic, but were they true?

If you love someone, is it really possible to never say you’re sorry? My parents said they were sorry to one another when a misunderstanding occurred. So did just about everyone I knew, including me. I was a bit confused.

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Today as a more mature woman, I believe I understand what the author of Love Story, Erich Segal, meant by the phrase. When difficulties occur between two individuals, instead of reacting with anger or judgment, we can thoughtfully respond.

We can choose a higher road, seeking to understand why our loved one might have said what they did.

Instead of a knee jerk response to a perceived slight or hurt, we can hold our silence and try to access a more peaceful place inside of us where clarity prevails. We can adopt a stance of compassion to “walk in their shoes;” to get the story behind the story; to uncover their motivation – especially their underlying hurt or pain – and offer a merciful response, rather than our own emotion-laden one.

When Segal penned, “Love means never having to say you’re sorry,” he may have been inviting us into a deeper understanding of love and relationships.

He seems to be asking us to explore a new model of human intimacy. He believes, as I do now, that an apology would never be necessary if we could perceive others (and their issues) with wise eyes and an open heart. Then, any response we might offer would be a compassionate one.

Granted, this is a very exalted level of communication, but certainly one worth striving for. We might label this form of interaction as “unconditional love.” Meaning,

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• February 2009

Author Kent Nerburn wrote, “Forgiveness alone, of all our human actions, opens up the world to the miracle of infinite possibility.” I believe this to be true. When we keep our hearts open to one another, especially through the act of forgiveness, anything is possible. Old wounds are healed.

New bonds are created. Love flourishes in an atmosphere of compassion and forgiveness.

This Valentine’s Day my hope is that we will be gentler and kinder to one another. May we focus on our relationship’s fragrance rather than its thorns.

May we create unlimited opportunities for love to grow and thrive. May compassion prevail, so no one need apologize anymore.

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Good Bacteria?

Probiotics Help Immune and Digestive Health (ARA) - Not all bacteria are bad. In fact, some can actually improve your immune system and digestive health. Eating foods enhanced with probiotics or taking supplements are a great way to make bacteria work for you and to fight germs.

The word “probiotic” means “for life” in Latin and has come to characterize a large family of bacteria and microbes that are beneficial for healthy immune and digestive function. While probiotic use is relatively new in the United States, Eastern Europeans have included these friendly bacteria in their diets for hundreds of years.

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Save Someone (or Yourself)

by Knowing the Five Signs and Acting Quickly

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hen a stroke strikes, every minute counts in saving a person’s life.

Speedy treatment depends on the person afflicted or someone near them recognizing the five signs that a stroke is occurring and getting emergency help fast.

You can remember the five signs of stroke with these five words:

walk, talk, reach, see, and feel.

walk - is their balance off? talk - is their speech slurred or face droopy? reach - is one side weak or numb? see - is their vision all or partially lost? feel - is their headache severe?

The “Give Me 5 for Stroke: Walk, Talk, Reach, See, Feel” campaign is aimed at educating Americans about the five warning signs of a stroke. These five words help individuals and family members recognize when a stroke is happening and react immediately.

If any of these stroke symptoms occur suddenly, call 9-1-1 immediately.

Sure-Fire Diet Boosters

Keep blood sugar stable. Losing weight is harder when the blood sugar levels are elevated, which impairs carbohydrate metabolism and increases sugar cravings. Avoid simple sugars along with artificial sweeteners, which have been shown to cause increased sugar rebound cravings.

It’s no secret that the key to successful weight loss and healthy weight maintenance is to keep that metabolism revving, fueled by energy and nutrition-rich foods, dietary supplements and an active lifestyle.

“A little strategy can go a long way toward keeping a diet and weight-loss initiative on track - particularly when the going gets tough,” notes Dr. Britta Zimmer, chief health officer at nutrition supplement purveyor for GoodElements.com.

With this in mind, Dr. Zimmer offers these diet tips sure to kick your metabolism into high gear and keep those temptations in check: Prepare a colorful plate. Fill half of your plate with brightly colored vegetables (spinach, kale, red peppers, broccoli) because those with deep colors contain the most nutrition. Fill the other half with good quality, low fat protein sources, such as eggs, tofu, fish, chicken and turkey, which give you a feeling of fullness for a longer period of time and, thus, better hold those cravings at bay.

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Stroke is the third-leading cause of death in the United States and a leading cause of disability. About 5.3 million Americans suffer from strokes annually.

Eat foods that burn fat - every day. Foods with natural fat-burning properties, such as cayenne, ginger, mustard seeds, cumin seeds, cinnamon, green tea, hot peppers, citrus fruits (especially lemon), and apple cider vinegar, can really help take – and keep – those pounds off when eaten on a regular daily basis.

Slow down and breathe. Break down your food properly and more efficiently so your cells may best utilize the nutrients. Chew well, take apple cider vinegar before each meal, eat in a relaxed setting and breathe while you eat.

Drink green tea. By steeping one green tea bag in 6-8 oz of piping hot water, you create nature’s most perfect energy-producing, health-restoring beverage.

Studies show that the catechins found in green tea assist in burning fat.

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• February 2009

Probiotics are consumed in fermented foods such as yogurt, cheese and pickled vegetables and are also found in unpasteurized milk. Russian medical research has focused on the thousands of strains of these healthy bacteria, defining what different strains do in the human body and have found that these bacteria assist the body in everything from digestion to healthy immune function.

Live probiotic cultures are available in health food stores in several forms – capsules, powders and liquids that may be added to juice or water.

Probiotic culture content is measured in the billions per dose, and many health care practitioners recommend taking five to 10 billion per day (two to six capsules, depending on the brand). Prescription antibiotics kill the healthy bacteria in the intestinal tract, so many doctors recommend taking probiotics after a course of antibiotics. Probiotics are safe and non-toxic with no side effects.

For those who want probiotics for digestive support, there are several brands on the market, such as Primal Defense, Culturelle, Natural Defense and Spectrabiotics. Do not buy probiotics unless they are refrigerated at a store, and always refrigerate the product at home to preserve freshness.

Some people prefer to get their daily dose of friendly bacteria in yogurt, but always check the product package for information about “live culture” counts. Not all commercial yogurts have these live cultures after manufacturing and the addition of sugar or corn syrup.

LOOK TALKING WHO’S

Terry Baxter M.D. • Chief Medical Officer • Borgess Medical Center From the Publisher: Dr. Terry Baxter is a founding member of the American Heart Association Circle of Red, a part of the Go Red for Women Movement.

Last year, she served as the Chairman of the Go Red for Women Luncheon in Kalamazoo. Since 2004, Go Red For Women has captured the energy, passion, and intelligence of women to work collectively to wipe out heart disease - the No. 1 killer of women. Dr. Baxter is an excellent example of the dynamic women who lead the fight against this serious disease.

support from everyone around her including parents, parents-in-law, husband, children and colleagues for her success. She gives special thanks to her in-laws, who moved from out of state to live with her and her family while the children were growing up. She also appreciates her own parents who are currently providing assistance with housework, errands, cooking, etc. to allow her and her husband to devote so much energy to their professional lives. “We never do it alone!”

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST MISCONCEPTION ABOUT YOUR JOB? “The biggest misconception about this administrative position is that it is easier than clinical medicine. It’s not true!!

With the rapidly changing healthcare environment, the increasing public accountability of healthcare providers, increasing government regulation, the impact of the current economy, and with more physicians becoming hospital employed, the challenges for the hospital administrator are endless. One could work 24 hours and never be done. (Kind of like being a mother and homemaker!)”

TELL US ABOUT YOUR PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS: Kalamazoo Academy of Medicine Michigan State Medical Society American Medical Association American College of Physicians American College of Physician Executives WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO OUTSIDE OF WORK? “Now, being so all consumed at work, I value down time, like to be home or at our place in Traverse City. I prefer to be reading and relaxing.”

DO YOU HAVE ANY HIDDEN TALENTS? She began college as a music major and played the flute well into her adult years. She also plays the piano and loves to do various needlework activities.

HOMETOWN: Gobles, MI

DESCRIBE YOUR “PERFECT” DAY OFF: Being at home or at the beach house with a good book.

EDUCATION: Western Michigan University, B.S., Magna cum laude, 1975.

MOST RECENTLY READ BOOK: Dewey: The Small-Town Library Cat Who Touched the World by Vicki Myron and Bret Witter

University of Texas Southwestern School of Medicine, M.D., 1979 St. Paul Hospital, Dallas-Internal Medicine Residency Training 1981

FAVORITE BOOK: She has too many to choose just one!

Murphy V.A. Hospitals–Internal Medicine Residency Training 1982

FAVORITE MOVIE: The Sound of Music

PERSONAL: Dr. Baxter was born and raised in the Kalamazoo area. Her parents and much of her extended family reside in the area. Her husband of 23 years, is Stephen E. Jefferson, MD, a pulmonary physician with Borgess Pulmonary Medicine. He also spent many years as a critical care physician. She has two daughters who are both attending college. Her stepdaughter and family, including two grandsons, live in San Antonio, Texas. Her stepson resides in Tampa.

RESIDES: Kalamazoo PROFESSION: Dr. Baxter is an internal medicine physician who spent many years in clinical practice. She has also spent a good part of her professional years as a physician administrator for several healthcare facilities. She currently serves as the Chief Medical Officer for Borgess Medical Center. She oversees all medical staff affairs, as well as all hospital-based physician practices, quality and risk management issues and is the liaison for medical education. Last November, the American Heart Association recognized Borgess with a Gold Level Award for their Start! Fit-Friendly Companies Program. The award was for promoting physical activity and health in the workplace.

WHAT STEERED YOU TOWARDS MEDICINE? The love of science, love of people and the love of a challenge.

WHY DID YOU TO LEAVE CLINICAL BEDSIDE MEDICINE FOR ADMINISTRATIVE MEDICINE? “Today, we need leaders knowledgeable in the aspects of medical care to represent the needs, interests and concerns of physicians and patients, physican leaders to address the complex issues facing health care today. One hopes to make some small contribution to improving the delivery of heath care.”

WHAT’S IN YOUR REFRIDGERATOR? Food her mother made for her!

She’s sure every woman would appreciate the food her mother makes.

WHAT DO YOU COLLECT? She collects Santas, which can easily fill every room in her home. Additionally, she collects Angels and is making every effort to match their numbers to her Santa collection. She also has a passion for shoes. “I agree with whoever said “I can deal with anything if I have the right shoes” She loves to bring back jewelry from anywhere she visits.

WHAT INSPIRES YOU? I find inspiration in how our local healthcare providers and facilities are facing the challenges in healthcare today. I get my greatest satisfaction in bringing projects to completion that result in improvements in the quality and delivery of healthcare to our patients. We all need healthcare – don’t you want to be certain that you receive the best care that we can possibly deliver? Besides the focus on my professional career, I have always and will always get inspiration by watching my children grow into responsible, caring and successful adults. It is a privilege to be a physician but what a special privilege to be a parent!

WHICH CHARITY OR FOUNDATION IS CLOSEST TO YOUR HEART? The United Way is one of her favorite charities because it supports so many different community services.

In the past several years, she has focused her energy on numerous committees and projects at work as well as the Go Red for Women organization.

TO YOU, WHAT IS THE MOST MEMORABLE JOB RELATED EVENT? “There is satisfaction in administrative work, but it doesn’t compare to the rewards that go with directly taking care of people. My most memorable job related moments are helping people through very difficult times in their lives. It is such a privilege to share these times with people. We should never take it for granted.”

TO WHAT DO YOU ATTRIBUTE YOUR SUCCESS? Dr. Baxter credits hard work and solid

WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO WATCH ON TV? “I don’t watch a lot of TV but do enjoy CSI Miami, the History Channel and ‘How things are Made’.”

WHERE WOULD WE FIND YOU ON A TYPICAL SUNDAY AFTERNOON? Home – it’s the only day of the week she gets to be there!

WHAT WOULD BUSINESS ASSOCIATES BE SURPRISED TO LEARN ABOUT YOU? That she had a whole “other” life in music and that at her core she is an introvert.

WHAT QUESTION WERE YOU HOPING I WOULDN’T ASK? “I don’t keep too many secrets!” Author’s Note: I doubt she would have the time!

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• February 2009

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A Food Affair - 1/4 - Feb 2009

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition• February 2009

Give the perfect Healthy Holiday Gift!

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition• February 2009

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10 Ways to Love Your Heart • • • • • • • • • •

Courtesy of the American Heart Association www.GoRedForWomen.org.

Get regular checkups.

Know your blood pressure and cholesterol numbers.

Follow your doctor’s recommendations for diet and exercise.

Take prescribed medications as directed.

If you smoke, quit now.

Get at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity each day. Join a 12-week physical fitness program at GoRedForWomen.org.

Eat a heart-healthy diet, including fruits and vegetables, whole-grain foods and fish.

Limit food high in saturated fats and dietary cholesterol.

For average Americans, limit your salt intake to 2,300 mg of sodium a day.

If you drink alcoholic beverages, drink in moderation – an average of no more than one drink a day for nonpregnant women.

Exercise for Your Heart

Trying to squeeze 30 minutes of physical activity into a hectic schedule? Figuring out how to do that can be a work-out in itself. But you can break up your activity into shorter segments. Add up to three 10-minute walking sessions or two 15-minutes of yard work and you’ve met your goal! Trying to lose weight or maintain your weight loss? Strive for 60 minutes of physical activity a day. Again, you don’t have to do it all at once.

Top 10 Tips for Starting a Physical Activity Program • Wear comfortable clothes and sneakers or flat shoes with laces.

• Start slowly. Gradually build up to at least 30 minutes of activity on most or all days of the week.

• Exercise at the same time of day so it becomes a regular part of your lifestyle.

• Drink a cup of water before, during and after exercising.

• Ask family and friends to join you – you’ll be more likely to stick with it if you have company.

Or join an exercise group, health club or the Y. Many churches and senior centers offer exercise programs too.

• Note your activities on a calendar or in a logbook. Write down the distance or length of time of your activity and how you feel after each session. If you miss a day, plan a make-up day or add 10-15 minutes to your next session.

• Use variety to keep your interest up. Walk one day, swim the next time. Go for a bike ride on the weekend.

• Look for chances to be more active during the day. Walk the mall before shopping, choose a flight of stairs over an escalator or take 10-15 minutes breaks while watching TV. • Don’t get discouraged if you stop for a while. Get started again gradually and work up to your old pace.

• Find a convenient time and place to do activities. Try to make it a habit, but be flexible. If you miss an exercise opportunity, work activity into your day another way.

For more information and to find online support, visit www.choosetomove.org.

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition• February 2009

Love to eat out?

Healthy options aren’t hard to find on most menus. Don’t be shy about making special requests. Share your entrée with your companion or ask your server to box half of it to go.

More tips: • Look for steamed, broiled, baked, grilled, poached or roasted foods.

• Remember that fried, au gratin, crispy, escalloped, pan-fried, sautéed or stuffed foods are high in fat and calories.

• Ask that visible fat be trimmed from meat and skin be removed from poultry before cooking.

• Ask for your meal to be prepared with vegetable oil (made from canola, olive, corn, soy, sunflower or safflower) or soft margarine instead of butter.

• Limit high-sodium foods, which include those that are pickled, in cocktail sauce, smoked, in broth or au jus, or in soy or teriyaki sauce. Request that your food be prepared with no added salt or MSG. Fast Foods Beware of topping burgers with cheese, special (mayonnaise-based) sauce and bacon – they add saturated fat and calories.

Top your sandwich with pickles, onions, lettuce, tomato, mustard and ketchup. You’ll get flavor without the fat.

• Steer clear of fried fish sandwiches.

• Try a baked potato, but enjoy it with low-fat sour cream instead of butter, full-fat sour cream or cheese.

Mexican Most Mexican food is fried with lard and topped with cheese, so it’s loaded with saturated fat. Start by turning down the free tortilla chips.

Then: • Ask for low-fat sour cream or use salsa to add flavor • Choose Veracruz or another tomato-based sauce instead of a cream or cheese sauce.

• Don’t eat the fried shell if you order a taco salad.

Family Restaurants The variety at many family restaurants can please even your pickiest family member. Salads are great choices, but choose your dressing carefully.

• Avoid dishes with lots of cheese, sour cream and mayonnaise.

• Choose boiled spiced shrimp, or baked, boiled or grilled fish or chicken instead of fried oysters, or fried fish or chicken.

• Skip all-you-can-eat buffets.

Indian Food Indian food includes lots of grains high in fiber and less animal protein.

Legumes and vegetables are also common ingredients – another plus.

But much of the food is prepared with ghee (clarified butter) or is fried or sautéed, or includes coconut oil and milk, which are high in saturated fat.

• Start with salads or yogurt with chopped or shredded vegetables.

• Choose chicken or seafood rather than beef or lamb.

• Order one protein and one vegetable dish to cut down the saturated fat and calories.

Caring for Yourself and Your Loved Ones Long-Term Care 101 had to figure out how to bathe a 200+ pound man that is paralyzed on one side of his body and very little strength in the other side, not to mention getting him on and off a stool in a small bathroom. I can tell you, they have had a very difficult time. Fortunately, they are persevering.

It’s getting harder and harder to avoid the topic of longterm care (LTC) these days. Almost everyone knows someone who has received long-term care services, whether it be in-home care, assisted living facilities, adult daycare services, or nursing home care, along with a story about its unexpected high cost. This has caused concern over what our own long-term care needs might be and for good reasons.

First, we’re getting older. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, by 2030 the number of Americans aged 65 and older will more than double to 71 million, comprising approximately 20 percent of the U.S. population.

Second, with improvements in healthcare, sudden death from acute diseases are less likely. The chance of incurring a debilitating disease that may require long-term care has increased.

February is the time of Saint Valentine, a time to show the one that is truly special to us just how much they mean to us. It is also a time for back-breaking snow shoveling, slippery roads, and cancelled flights unless you are a snowbird sipping a glass of iced tea somewhere warm and sunny.

As I sit here in the middle of winter watching the snowfall, I am reminded of a call I received about this time last year. It was not a call I expected and it concerned my dear Uncle Drue.

My mom told me her brother, Drue, had an unexpected reaction to a prescription drug he had been taking for quite some time. Without any warning whatsoever, my uncle was being rushed to the emergency room to be treated for a stroke, which was triggered by a rare blood disease. This blood disease was caused by the medication my uncle was on. Unfortunately, the stroke led to complete paralysis on Drue’s entire left side. A year later, he is still working hard to regain mobility and hopefully he will be able to return to work at some point in 2009. You see, Drue is only 55 years old and he is far too young to retire.

He has too much life in him and far too much personality to be sitting at home in a wheelchair watching life go by.

While my uncle does have health insurance, which fortunately has paid for nearly all of his medical bills and most of his rehabilitation needs, he does not have insurance to help his wife take care of his daily living activities. She has

No doubt, as the baby boom generation continues to age and live longer, the system may strain to deliver the needed services. As demand outstrips supply, costs can only be expected to rise.

What is LTC? Long-term care encompasses a broad spectrum of services for individuals suffering from chronic illness or a severe cognitive impairment; including assistance with basic everyday functions, household chores, or life management also known as Activities of Daily Living (ADL).

The six Activities of Daily Living are: Bathing – turning on faucets, washing and drying the whole body; Dressing – getting clothes from the closet, dressing self, including fasteners; Toileting – moving self to and from the bathroom, arranging clothes, cleansing self; Eating – getting food and drink from a container into the body for nourishment; Continence – maintaining control of bowel and bladder function; Transferring – moving self to and from a chair.

How much will it Cost?

Some of our shared concern centers around cost. Just in the past two years alone, the increase in the average cost of long-term care ranged from 5% to 13%, varying by type of service.1 In 2008, the national average daily cost in an assisted living community was $3,241 per month while the average daily cost of a private nursing home room was $217, or $79,205 annually.2

Many mistakenly believe that Medicare or Medicaid will pay for our LTC needs. However, the inescapable conclusion is that neither Medicare nor Medicaid is an ideal solution for long-term care. Medicare is targeted primarily at acute care and Medicaid is generally only available to those living below poverty level, or those who are medically disabled and have to spend themselves into poverty.

Some believe they can rely on their own personal resources to pay for their long-term care needs. However, many underestimate the cost and can end up using savings or assets they have built up over a lifetime.

Another Option: Long-Term Care Insurance Instead of depleting their assets, relying on the government for help, or burdening loved ones, many are turning to long-term care insurance to help cover these costs if a need arises. This type of policy covers services such as nursing home, assisted living, home care, and adult day care. If you believe you’re too young to begin thinking about long-term care, consider that many people who require long-term care are working-age adults between the ages of 18 and 64.Plus, the premiums for long-term insurance are generally much lower the younger you are when you purchase the policy. My uncle Drue probably never even gave long-term care insurance a thought at the young age of 55.

Accidents, strokes, rare blood diseases and many other unforeseen illnesses can all happen at any point in one’s life. My uncle Drue is an unfortunate example. Do yourself and your family a big favor. Rather than pretending that you or your loved ones are immune from accidents or telling yourself “it can’t happen to me”, talk to a licensed financial services professional and determine whether you need long-term care insurance, how much it truly costs, how to pay for it, and if it is right for you. The person it may save the most is not you, but the one that will be responsible for taking care of you – your wife, your child, or some other loved one.

1 Long-Term Care Facility Costs– A Nationwide Quantitative Evaluation of U.S. Facilities, March 2008. Prudential Financial Global Market Research. www.prudential.com/insurance/longtermcare. For a copy of this report, please call1-800-732-0416.

2 Ibid Availability of long-term care insurance varies by carrier and state.

Provided courtesy of Prudential. For more information contact Robert Bryan Burkey, Financial Planner, CFP®, CLU offers investment advisory services through Prudential Financial Planning Services, a division of Pruco Securities, LLC. He can be reached at Robert.burkey@prudential.com and 269-324-1160. The Prudential Insurance Company of America, Newark, NJ. IFS A160088 Ed 1/2009

Robert Burkey offers investment advisory services as a representative of Prudential Financial Planning Services, a division of Pruco, LLC (Pruco), and securities products and services as a Registered Representative of Pruco. The Prudential Insurance Company of America, Newark NJ, and Pruco are Prudential Financial companies.

1-800-201-6690

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• February 2009

21

Women Who Are

Winning The Fight Against Heart Disease

M

ore than 42 million American women are living with one or more types of cardiovascular disease, yet only one in five women view heart disease as their greatest health threat. In fact, more women die of cardiovascular disease than the next five causes of death combined, including cancer.

Here are just a few stories of women who have fought – and are winning – the fight against heart disease.

Bonita Bates Kalamazoo, MI Age: 53 Age at time of event: 46

Bonita’s Story

In the five years since the American Heart Association introduced Go Red For Women, Bonita Bates of Kalamazoo

feels that they have made a lot of progress in terms of educating women about heart disease.

For approximately18 months while seeking medical treatment for on and off complaints of chest pains and shortness of breath, Bonita was told on several occasions in the emergency room and immediate care facility that she wasn’t having a heart attack. She was too young and healthy to fit the profile of someone in cardiac distress. She had no previous family history of heart disease and several EKGs did not reveal any problems. Yet the symptoms and doctor visits continued.

Kalamazoo Kalamazoo Area Area Go Red for Women Go Red for Women Events Events Wear Red Day, Friday, February Wear Red Day, Friday, February 6 6 • Merchants on the Kalamazoo Mall will participate in Go Red For Women through window displays and the mall itself will “Go Red” • Macy’s will be hosting a fashion show at 2:00 p.m. and again at 2:30 p.m.

Models will be cardiac survivors through the Borgess Health Cardiovascular Program • There will be a Casting Call at Crossroads Mall from 2-4:00 p.m. where women can stop in and share their cardiac story on tape. Select stories will be submitted to the National American Heart Association Go Red For Women program • The pedestrian bridge over Westnedge will “Go Red” • Go Red For Women will also be highlighted at the Art Hop

“When it was suggested that I have a stress test, the diagnosis was finally made that I had cardiovascular disease (two severely blocked arteries). I was told that it was amazing that I hadn’t had a severe stroke or major heart attack. I was told that if that had happened, I probably wouldn’t have survived.” She was actually relived to be diagnosed with a heart condition that could be repaired with surgery in 2002.

“I was so happy that something was really wrong and that I wasn’t imagining all of this, that at that moment, after I prayed, I wasn’t even frightened of the surgery or the possible outcome,” said Bates. Today doctors know so much more in the treatment of women with heart disease. They realize that women have different symptoms than men.” It was while I was recuperating at home that I saw numerous magazine articles on the new studies of women and heart disease.

Businesses participating in Go Red Programs on February 6 • • • • •

Not only is Go Red For Women working to educate medical professionals with this news, but also women in general. In 2006, 57% of American women recognized that heart disease is their leading cause of death -up from 30% recognition in 1997. African American women are at an even greater risk statistically. In 2004, cardiovascular disease mortality caused the deaths of 48,083 black males while also taking the lives of 53,850 black females.

In the years since her surgery she has given back by volunteering for the American Heart Association on a regular basis, sharing the news with the family, friends, students, and her sisters at the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. “I really admire how she’s taken her condition and used her experience to encourage lifestyle changes in others,” said Sarah Poole, state health alliance director for the American Heart Association.

Tell Us Your Story - The 2009 Casting Call Event, Friday, February 6 Have you made a lifesaving choice? Let your choices inspire others.

Share your story to be a part of the Go Red For Women 2009 Campaign.

Including a chance to appear in a national television special on The choices women have made to live health lives.

Bonita, who works with students at Kalamazoo Valley Community College, doesn’t hesitate to share her story.

“When I talk to people, especially women, I try to get the point across to them that if you are having chest pains and think something is wrong, there probably is! Pain is not normal!”

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Borgess Health b.d.’s Mongo`lian BBQ Crossroads Macy’s Western Michigan University’s Greek System

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• February 2009

Where: Macy’s at The Crossroads Mall, Portage 2 – 4 pm

The Go Red For Women Luncheon will be on February 25 • • • • •

This is an educational and fundraising event Education workshops will be from 9:30 a.m. to noon There will be health information provided by Borgess Health Keynote speaker Diana Nyad will speak at noon For tickets and information, please call 269-352-0785

Companies can call Ebony at 269-352-0785 to learn how they can participate or obtain Go Red For Women materials. You can also download information for Wear Red day at www.goredforwomen.org

Theresa Volpe Lutherville (Baltimore), MD Age: 39 Age at time of event: 38

T

Theresa’s Story

heresa Volpe has a message for every woman who puts off seeing her doctor: Don’t do it. “As women we say, ‘Oh, I have to make a doctor’s appointment, but this week I have soccer games to attend, so I’ll do it next week.’”

That’s what Theresa, a wife and mother of two, told herself when she was tired, short of breath and felt back and chest pains last year.

But the fatigue was really getting to her. “I wouldn’t carry the laundry up and down the steps, because I knew that it would wear me out.” She pledged to rest more.

“I would get tired washing my hair. I thought, ’Well, I’m really out of shape – I can’t even wash my hair anymore.’ I’d put the girls to bed around eight o’clock, and I’d sit down to watch TV, and by nine o’clock I was asleep.”

A few weeks later, Theresa saw her doctor and had a stress test. “I had a feeling that it was my heart, but all the tests were saying it wasn’t. A lot of people told me that if I had been a man who had gone to the doctor with the same symptoms, I would’ve been sent straight to the Emergency Room.” Two months later, Theresa had a massive heart attack at a family birthday party. She was 38. “I was throwing my plate away when a funny sensation came over me, like the blood was drained from me,” she said. “Both my arms felt heavy and numb, and I had an odd sensation of pressure in my jaws.”

The pain got worse. “I felt like an elephant was standing on my chest. It was difficult for me to talk,” she said. “If I could have crawled out of my body, I would have.”

At that point, Theresa didn’t doubt that it was her heart – but the paramedics and her husband, John, did. John wanted to know if it could be indigestion. The paramedics thought she could walk to the ambulance.

When the EKG at the hospital showed she was having a massive heart attack, Theresa was airlifted to another hospital near Baltimore, where the doctor told John that he should bring their daughters to say goodbye. Theresa had four stents to open blockages in blood vessels that provide nutrition and oxygen to her heart, allowing blood to flow smoothly to her heart again, and spent five days at the hospital recovering.

“When I was lying in the hospital bed, I thought, Why did this happen to me? I’m 38 years old.”

She found out that her family history was partly to blame. Theresa’s brother had a

heart attack at 47, her father died of one, and all of his siblings died of heart disease before age 60. “But I was a child when they died. And so many years had passed that I didn’t realize that I had a risk factor.”

In addition, “the only exercise I got was running after my kids, and I ate whatever I wanted.” At home, she had three great reasons to get in shape: a supportive husband and their daughters, Elizabeth and Grace.

She called the girls into her bedroom and drew a picture of her heart to help explain what happened. She didn’t want them to be afraid. But she wanted them to understand.

“They knew I had a heart attack. Their pediatrician said to tell them that the blockage in blood vessels nurturing her heart was fixed and reassure them that I would be OK.” Her daughters also learned that their mom needs to exercise to stay healthy. Theresa and John both follow a heart-healthy diet now. “I eat completely differently than I used to. I look at each day as a gift.”

The community of Go Red For Women has also played a role in Theresa’s recovery.

“It’s great because when you’re 38 years old and you have a heart attack, a lot of people don’t know what you’re going through – the emotions, the fear. It’s so nice to meet other women and know, ‘OK, I’ve survived a year, but these women have survived eight years, 10 years. They’re still alive and here to tell their story. So I feel really lucky to meet them.

“I want women to know that their family history is important, that they should know their blood pressure and cholesterol numbers. Even though I have a family history of heart disease, I still didn’t think, as a woman, that it could happen to me. If I had realized that I was at risk, I would hope that I would have lived differently.”

Patricia Henderson St. Charles, MO Age: 53 Age at time of event: 44

O

Patricia’s Story

n a chilly winter morning nine years ago, Patricia Henderson caught her breath. She thought she had inhaled too much cold air. Two days later, at the gym, she felt a nagging, burning sensation in her chest.

“It just seemed like I couldn’t do anything.”

That was unusual for Patricia, a busy HR professional who had never dealt with anything more serious than a sinus infection. It’s February in St. Louis – probably just the weather, she thought.

Still, Patricia called her doctor, who suggested they meet in the ER. Tests revealed that her left coronary artery was 85 percent blocked. She had no family history of heart disease.

She had surgery a few days later. The next day, Patricia recalls, she felt fine but as she ate soup in her hospital bed, she became faint. The next thing she remembers is waking up two days later and finding out that she’d had a heart attack and then gone into cardiac arrest.

“Medically, I was dead for one hour,” she said. “My doctor manually manipulated my heart to bring me back to life.”

The hospital staff called her a miracle patient. Patricia, who was 44, asked her doctor what made him continue. “He said I was too young to die, so he could not let me go. He just kept trying and trying.”

After 13 days in the hospital, going home wasn’t easy, even with her family’s support. Just walking around the house for two minutes was a strain.

Patricia, a self-described “cheerleader for life,” hadn’t exactly been a couch potato. Before her hospital stay, she played golf, worked out and taught aerobics. And she was driven. After the surgery, she should feel better. So when was she going to?

The answer was about four months later. “I wasn’t just trying to get better physically, but mentally too. I was afraid to go out without my husband, Henry Lee – I needed him near me.”

Patricia explored her feelings of fear and “why me?” with a psychologist.

“I would hold my pulse just because I wanted to know that my heart was beating.” She began recovering physically and mentally and eventually returned to work.

Patricia’s favorite cousin, T.C., urged her to share her story with the American Heart Association. “You gotta stop being so secretive about it. Women need to know that yes, they can have a

heart attack and survive and go back to what they were doing.” Patricia learned about the community of Go Red For Women. Sharing her story has helped her recovery.

“The movement shows women who have had a heart event that they are not alone – they have sisters and friends who want to be there for them. We’ve gone through it. We’re passionate about it,” she said. Heart disease kills more women than the next five causes of death combined, but it often goes undiagnosed. “Since I became a survivor, I know my numbers and the importance of listening to my body.”

Her cardiologist told Patricia that if she hadn’t paid attention to the small symptoms – the shortness of breath, the burning in her chest – she wouldn’t be here today. “Your body talks to you,” Patricia said.

“When you notice something different, you need to tell your doctor.” She has also learned that her active lifestyle before improved her ability to recover.

Patricia’s scar makes some people feel sorry for her but she doesn’t feel sorry for herself. She doesn’t want perfect, blemish-free skin. For her the scar is a poignant reminder of what she went through.

“To me it’s a lifeline. Since my heart attack, I want to live every day to the fullest, because I know it’s a day I will never see again.”

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• February 2009

23

Fitness for Couples:

Bonding

By Kimberly Monaghan

T

he 14th of February, Valentine’s Day, is a day traditionally filled with romantic surprises. Roses, romantic getaways, rich chocolates and gourmet dinners with sparkling champagne are all ways couples celebrate their love. But what about the 15th? The 16th? Still want to keep that romance going all year long? How about a romantic indulgence with a much lower cost and zero calories? What better way is there to say I love you, I care about you, and that I want to spend time with you than finding a fun activity in which you and your partner can get in shape. Not only will you be building better bodies, you’ll be encouraging one another to stay healthy, to live longer and to stick to a fitness program, all while spending quality time together.

A “Couple” of Good Reasons

Encouragement, bonding, accountability and upping the ‘fun factor’ are major reasons couples find ways to get fit together. Through her teachings with couples on how to incorporate a healthy partner practice into life, Kimberlee Jensen-Stedl, a traveling yoga instructor and owner of 8th Element Yoga in Missoula, Montana, explains that when you partake in a fitness program together, “you practice your compromising and collaboration skills and you feel wonderful that you are sharing a healthy lifestyle.” Safety, motivation, support, faster goal attainment, developing common interests and reducing stress are all proven benefits when couples workout together. Dr. Ronda VanderWall and her husband J.R. met playing sports in college and continue to swim, cycle, run and compete in triathlons as a couple.

“It was only natural to continue to workout together after graduation,” said VanderWall.

“Spending time together has been our biggest proponent now. The level of fitness when working out together is actually more enjoyable because we can push each other and see the results day to day. If you can leave all your other issues out of the gym, then the time spent together will be that much more powerful. Exercise has the ability to connect you on a more personal level when both people are focused and enjoying themselves.”

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While Building Better Bodies

Time Together

If finding time is an issue, there are many fitness activities such as walking the dog, gardening, biking to the store and learning to dance for social events, which can be time-conscious as well as productive.

If you’re not ready to commit hours each week to a new fitness regimen, start with something that is readily available, requires less set-up, and can be broken down into small time increments. Hiking, Frisbee, race walking, resistance training – even hula hooping – are just some of the activities that can be worked into a busy schedule. Just being with someone you care about makes the time go by much faster, explains Jensen-Stedl. “That’s the beauty of yoga. You can squeeze out just ten minutes if that’s all that you have.” There are also other factors that must be considered when carving out a fitness time, such as busy professional lives, family schedules and varying peak energy hours. Whereas one person may prefer a morning activity, their partner may feel more energized in the evening. “We try to alternate the

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• February 2009

Kimberly Monaghan is a freelance writer and certified yoga instructor.

times we workout during the week,” explained Vanderwall. “We do have different motivation levels and energy but, thankfully, we have similar schedules so we can do this.” Despite the challenges, keep in mind that setting aside the time is more than just making a fitness commitment; it’s about committing to one another.

Isn’t It Romantic?

Just about any sport, athletic activity or fun fitness craze can be turned into a romantic rendezvous.

Whereas some activities naturally bring two people together like dancing, fencing, tennis and badminton, other activities forge a deeper bond as you learn and teach one another. Horseback riding, bowling, archery, scuba diving, skiing and cycling can not only be shared, but can lay the foundation for other related activities including preparatory weight training, competing in challenges or shopping for equipment together. Selecting an adventurous activity may be a way for you to demonstrate teamwork while sharing a life long dream together. Scuba diving, Argentinean Tango, skydiving, surfing, martial arts and base jumping all require some forethought, planning, as well as developing a level of fitness prior to trial. Setting aside time together to prepare, train and participate provides an opportunity for fun dialogue, dream sharing and motivational support, and it naturally heightens the romance and anticipation of experimenting in a new adventure together.

Couples Fitness Inspiration: “The ABCs of Couple’s Fitness,” DVD. Razor Digital Entertainment, 2007.

“Yoga with a Friend” by Kimberlee JensenStedle and Todd Stedle, Ph.D. 8th Element Yoga, www.8thelementyoga.com www.website4fun.com: Web site for people looking for sports, hobbies and fun activities to bring couples and singles together.

Spring is arriving at %06#-& &910463& $-05)*/( $0/4*(/.&/5 4)011&

Come check out our spring items!

4 8FTUOFEHF ,BMBNB[PP .* 1IPOF

Hours: M-F 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.; Th 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• February 2009

25

Calendar events

of

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

Email us at: wlskazoo@provide.net Please type Calendar in the subject line. Or you may mail your info to P.O. Box 2284, Portage MI 49081-2284 February 1 Miller Auditorium Western Michigan University Symphony Orchestra.

Bruce Uchimura, Conductor. 3 pm. Free. 269-3874667. www.wmich.edu/music.

February 2 Borgess-Lakeview Hospital in Paw Paw Incontinence Talk. Dr. Roger Beyer M.D., M.A., F.A.C.O.G, will give a FREE informal talk on Urinary Incontinence in women at The Lawrence Education Center at Borgess Hospital. Please call (269) 6576189 to reserve a seat. 6:30-8:00 pm. Refreshments will be served.

February 2 IAAP -Kazoo Chapter Kalamazoo Chapter of the International Assoc. of Administrative Professionals Monthly Meeting.

Guests Welcome. Focus: Tech Tips & Microsoft Tips 5 pm – 7:30 pm Kazoo RESA 1819 East Milham Meal: $10.00 RSVP: Betty Gruber CPS, Treasurer by noon on Jan. 29. INFO: www.iaap-kalamazoo.org February 3 Dalton Center Recital Hall WMU - Bullock Series. The Verdehr Trio. 8:15 pm. $12, ($10 seniors, $5 students). 269-387-2300. www. wmich.edu/music.

February 4 Deep Lake Shamanic Study Group. Light Warrior Clan will gather from 6-10 pm for a community potluck and teaching. Please RSVP to Mlapearl@aol.com or call 269.966.3116.

February 4 Kalamazoo Center for the Healing Arts Treating Chronic Fatigue with Acupuncture.

Acupuncturist Paul Janson, LAc, with the Kalamazoo Center for the Healing Arts, is offering a free talk on using acupuncture to treat chronic fatigue. 6 pm.

RSVPs are requested by calling 373-0910 or sending email to kchands@kcha.com. For more information or directions go to www.kcha.com.

February 4-25 Kalamazoo Center for the Healing Arts Relaxation Massage Workshop. This four-week workshop teaches the basic techniques for giving a relaxation massage, couched in the larger framework of holistic health. 6-8:30 pm. Cost: $100/ person or $175/couple RSVPs are requested by calling 373-0910 or sending email to kchands@ kcha.com. For more information or directions go to www.kcha.com.

February 4 &18 Kalamazoo Center for the Healing Arts Massage as a Profession Workshop. These sessions are a great opportunity to sit with Kalamazoo Center for the Healing Arts staff and talk about the rewards and realities of our industry. It’s worth the

26

time just to tour our gorgeous facility—the space itself is a calming and healing force. RSVP by calling 269-373-0910, or email kchands@kcha.com.

Visit www.kcha.com for more information. KCHA is located at 6350 West KL Avenue, Kalamazoo.

February 5-February 15 Parish Theatre, 426 S. Park St. “The Baker’s Wife”.. Fri. & Sat. 8 pm, Thurs. 2/5 - 7:30 pm, Sat. 2 pm. 269-343-1313. www.kazoocivic.com.

February 5-15 The University Theatre, Gilmore Theatre Complex “Picnic”. A shocking liaison ensues when a handsome stranger strolls into a small Kansas town the day of the Labor Day picnic in this Pulitzer-prize winning examination of yearning, regret, and risk.

Feb 5-7, 12-14 - 8 pm; Feb 15 - 2 pm. $20, $15 Seniors, $5 Student. 269-387-3227. www.wmich. edu/theatre.

February 5 Kalamazoo Valley Museum Music at the Museum: Louie. Beloved Kalamazoo Valley Museum children’s performer plays for our adult audience. 7:30 pm. $5 per person. 269-3737990. www.kalamazoomuseum.org.

February 6 Kalamazoo Nature Center “Owl Prowl”. Owls are busy selecting mates and setting up territory this time of year, so it’s the ideal time to explore the woods after dark and listen for owlish activity! Dress to be warm and walk quietly.

No flashlights, please! Outdoor, evening hike for adults & older children. 6 - 7:30 pm. KNC Members Free, Non-Members, $4/adult, $3/senior, $2/child.

269-381-1574. www.NatureCenter.org.

February 6 & 7 Epic Theatre KSO Chamber: Music Warms A Winter Evening.

Enjoy an intimate evening with the KSO’s BurdickThorne String Quartet and Artists in Residence. 8 pm. $20 Adults, $8 Students. 269-387-2300. www.

KalamazooSymphony.com.

February 6-8 W.K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary Ringneck duck carving workshop. Learn how to carve and paint a ringneck duck decoy during a three-day workshop hosted by the W.K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary, 9 am - 5 pm. $250 includes wood cutout, pattern, glass eyes, lunch & snacks for all three days.

1-800-852-7352. www.theduckblind.com.

February 6-22 Farmers Alley Theatre “Escanaba in Love”. In Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, deer hunting season is underway for the rugged men of the Soady family. Fri. & Sat. - 8 pm. Sun. - 2 pm. $22 general admission, $19 seniors/students.

269-343-2727. www.farmersalleytheatre.com.

February 7 Kalamazoo Center for the Healing Arts Intro to Reflexology. Foot and hand massage are easy and effective ways to relieve stress. Join us to learn more about the art of reflexology, practiced for centuries as a natural method of healing.

Reflexology I covers the basics of feet. 9 am – 2:30 pm. Cost: $60 Reservations are requested, 373-0910 or kchands@kcha.com. www.kcha.com.

February 7 & 8 Kalamazoo County Expo Center & Fairground Kalamazoo Antique Auto Swap Meet. 46th Annual Event -Kalamazoo Antique Auto Restorers Club Dealers from across the Midwest & Canada. Sat. 8 - 4 Sun. 8 -1 $5.00 269-375-3669. www.kaarc.net.

Greater Kalamazoo

February 7 Smartshop Metal Arts Center “The Family Forge”. Designed specifically for students 10-16 years of age and their parents, relatives, or supportive adult friends. 2 - 4 pm. $80. 269-3457285. www.smartshopkalamazoo.com.

February 7 First Baptist Church, 315 W. Michigan Ave. “Lost in Kazoo”. 6 pm. Free. 269-342-5059. www.

KalamazooArts.com.

February 7 Miller Auditorium Gold Company Celebrates Motown & Beyond.

Singing the hits that launched a musical revolution, Gold Company Celebrates Motown and Beyond.

Fun for kids of all ages, this special performance will include a Motown tribute along with the comedy, choreography and showmanship that make this WMU vocal group an audience favorite. 2 pm & 8 pm. $12-$24. 269-387-2300. www.millerauditorium. com.

February 7 Girl Scout Heart of Michigan Office 601 W. Maple Street 2nd Annual African American Cultural Event . Join us in celebrating black history month. This free community event will be entertaining and educational. Food by local venders; local cultural entertainment, youth play reading, entertainment by the Academic, Cultural, Technological and Scientific Olympics (ACT-SO) Educational displays and more. 2–6 pm.Contact Charlotte at 269-3431516.

February 7 Richland Area Community Center The Logistics of Freelance Workshop – : 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. – Learn the ins and outs of freelance journalism. $15 per person.

February 8 Dalton Center Recital Hall WMU Faculty Recital. Yu-Lien The, Piano. 8:15 pm.

Free. 269-387-4667. www.wmich.edu/music.

February 8 Kalamazoo Nature Center “Michigan Mammals” Outdoor, family hike with activities. 2-3 pm. Free for KNC Members; Nonmembers, $6/adults, $5/seniors, $4/children and students, 3 and under free. 269-381-1574 ext. 0. www.NatureCenter.org.

February 8 Wellspring Theater, Epic Center The Gilmore 2008–09 Rising Stars Recital Series: Francesco Schlimé, piano 7 pm. 269-342-1166. www.thegilmore.com.

February 9 Richland Area Community Center Writers’ Write! – at 10 a.m. – Join us for Richland’s new writers’ circle. We will share, support and critique our writing goals! Free.

February 10 Miller Auditorium “Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater”. Join the celebration as Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, America’s cultural ambassador to the world, marks its 50th anniversary of bringing African-American cultural expression and the American modern dance tradition to the world’s stages. 7:30 pm. $40$60. 269-387-2300. www.millerauditorium.com.

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• February 2009

February 10 Kalamazoo Nature Center Connecting Women & Nature: Snowshoe Adventure. Snowshoeing is excellent exercise and a fun way to get outside in winter. Women age 14+, outdoor evening walk. 6-8:30 pm. KNC Members, $15, Non-members, $20 (includes snowshoe rental).

269-381-1574. www.NatureCenter.org.

February 10 Kellogg Bird Sanctuary “Flying Hunters of the Night”. 7 pm. Sanctuary members $3 Adults, $1 for children, non-members $5 Adults, $3 Children. 269-671-2510. www.kbs. msu.edu.

February 11 Great Lakes Plastic Surgery Sweetheart Celebration. Join us from 5 to 7 pm for an evening of fun and education with our plastic surgeons and skin care esthetician.

Botox demonstrations and “this night only” specials on several of our products and procedures. Talk to representatives from Botox and other companies and learn how their products can help you. Raffle prizes; goodie bags & hors D’oeuvres. A portion of all proceeds from the evening will be donated to the Pediatric Cardiology Wing at Bronson Methodist Hospital.

Registration is required to this free event (adults only, please). Call Suzanne at 269-329-2900 or email to suzanne@glphs.com.

February 11 - 17 The Carlisle Spring 2009 Collection Please join us for a private showing of the most beautiful clothing of the season. The Carlisle Collection is your complete style source, fashion that does it all. We help you create wardrobes that work for your lifestyle! 7117 S.Westnedge-Next to Eve SalonSpa For info or appointment: please contact Jan B.269-720-0931 or jwboesch@tds.net February 11 Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Kalamazoo Art League Lecture: Annual Valentine Tea. With Jason Kalajainen, executive director of Ox-Bow of the Art Institute of Chicago in Saugatuck.

10 am. Free for Art League Members, $10 for nonmembers. 269-349-7775. www.kiarts.org.

February 11 & 12 Light Fine Arts Building, Kalamazoo College High School Choral Festival. Clinican Timothy Takach, a member of the vocal ensemble Cantus, works with 12 area high schools over a two-day period in a non-adjudicated setting culminating in a mass choir performance each day. 9 am - 1:30 pm.

Free. 269-337-7407. www.kzoo.edu/bach.

February 11 – March 18 Kalamazoo Center for the Healing Arts Meditation Class. Paul Janson, MS, LAc, offers a 6-week meditation class that focuses on the philosophy and practice of meditation based on the traditions of India. This class will help attendees understand and manage the mind and will provide a basic model for understanding ourselves and the world in which we live. Each class will be divided into 30 minutes of instruction and 30 minutes of practicum. 6-7 pm. Cost: $60 Reservations are requested, 373-0910 or kchands@kcha.com. www. kcha.com.

February 12 Kalamazoo Nature Center “Owl Prowl”. Owls are busy selecting mates and setting up territory this time of yearOutdoor, evening hike for adults and older children. 6-7:30 pm. KNC Members Free, Non-Members, $4/adult, $3/senior, $2/child. 269-381-1574. www.NatureCenter.org.

February 12-15 Nelda K. Balch Playhouse Senior Performance Series. Festival Playhouse features the work of our “best and the brightest” in student-directed plays, young artists who support the great tradition at Kalamazoo College of students creating their own theatre. Thurs, Fri, & Sat: 8 pm; Sun: 2 pm. Adults $15, Seniors/Students $10, Thurs. $1. 269-337-7333. www.kzoo.edu/theatre.

February 13-28 Kalamazoo Civic Auditorium “The Affections of May”. Fri. & Sat. 8 pm, Thurs.

2/19 - 7:30 pm, Sat. 2 pm. 269-343-1313. www. kazoocivic.com February 13 & 27 Unwindings Integrative Breathwork is a musical journey for insight, emotional healing & creativity. 7 - 9 pm.

5464 Holiday Terrace. $30. RSVP 269.388.2988 or adamczassociates.com.

February 13-21 Whole Art Studio “Marilyn and Marc”. On Valentine’s Day come to the Late Night to see that maybe you and your significant other have it just fine. Fri. & Sat. 11 pm. $5.

269-345-7529. www.wholeart.org.

February 13 & 14 Miller Auditorium Rain: The Beatles Experience. EXPERIENCE WHAT BEATLEMANIA WAS ALL ABOUT! FROM ED SULLIVAN TO ABBEY ROAD! - They look like them and they sound just like them! “The next best thing to seeing The Beatles,” raves the Denver Post. All the music and vocals are performed totally live!

Sing along with your family and friends to such Beatlemaniac favorites as “Let It Be,” “Hey Jude,” “My Guitar Gently Weeps,” “Come Together” and “Can’t Buy Me Love.” 8 pm. $25-$47.50. 269-3872300. www.millerauditorium.com.

February 13 Richland Area Community Center Press Release Success Workshop – : 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Learn how to write an effective press release $15 per person, $10 for Kalamazoo Regional Chamber of Commerce Members, for more information go to www.richlandareacc.org February 14 Brook Lodge, Dining Hall Valentine’s Day Dinner. Four course dinner, a la carte menu. Please visit our website for menu details. 6 pm. $45 per person. 800-407-8486 or 269731-2200. www.brooklodgemsu.com.

February 14 Smartshop Metal Arts Center Blacksmithing for Lovers.- Learn how to safely and effectively use a coal forge, anvil, hammer, tongs, and hand files to create a fabulous letter opener.

All materials and safety gear provided. 12-5 pm. $130.00. 269-345-7285. www.smartshopkalamazoo.com.

February 14 Chenery Auditorium KSO Pops Presents Valentine Hearts. The KSO and guest vocalist Kathy Wagner perform music of love - from Tchaikovsky’s Romeo and Juliet to Unchained Melody (from “Ghost”) to The Way We Were. It’s a night made for lovers! 8 pm. $10-$40.

269-387-2300. www.KalamazooSymphony.com.

February 14-September 27 Kalamazoo Valley Museum “Meet the Velvelettes”.Commemorating Motown’s 50th Anniversary. Free. 269-373-7990. www.kalamazoomuseum.org.

February 15 Dalton Center Recital Hall Concerto Competition Finals. 5:30 pm. Free. 269387-4667. www.wmich.edu/music.

February 16 Kalamazoo Nature Center Great Backyard Bird Count is a nationwide program that runs from February 13 – 16 2 pm. Free for KNC Members; Non-members, $6/adults, $5/seniors, $4/ children and students, 3 and under/ free. 269-3811574 ext. 0. www.NatureCenter.org.

February 16-20 Transformations Spirituality Center Beyond Words: An Icon Painting Retreat. $570 incl. private accommodations, meals, instruction & materials. www.transformationscenter.org 269-3816290 ext. 310.

February 21 Wellspring Theater at the Epic Center Open Modern Dance Master Class with Tammy Metz Starr. Space is limited, so call 269-342-4354 in advance to reserve your spot. 12-1:30 pm. Free.

269-342-4354. www.wellspringdance.org.

February 16 Richland Community Center Women In Networking 6:00 – 8:00 pm Networking, beverages & a light buffet $8 cash Three featured presenters every month.

February 21 First Baptist Church, 315 W. Michigan Ave. “Beware the Spoken Word”. A sudden medical problem causes older adults to no longer have the ability to speak, leaving all conversations to young adults and children. Just what will they talk about? 6 pm. Free. 269-342-5059. www.KalamazooArts.com

February 17 Kalamazoo Nature Center Small Wonders: Animals in Winter. Children must be age 5 or under and accompanied by an adult.

9:30-11:30 pm. $2/child in addition to Regular KNC admission. 269-381-1574 ext. 0. www.NatureCenter.org.

February 17 Kalamazoo Institute of Arts ARTbreak: “The Calumet Region”. Kalamazoo photographer Gary Cialdella talks about a 20-year photographic project. 12:15 pm. Free. 269-349-7775. www.kiarts.org.

February 17 The Beacon Club The After 5 Women's Connection of KalamazooNetworking for Women – promote your business.

Keynote speaker: Laura Loveberry, Mrs.Michigan 2007 6:30-8 p.m. Dinner & Door Prizes $17.00 RSVP

by Thur. Feb. 11 to Christa at 269-323-7311.

February 18 Dalton Center Recital Hall “Western Winds”. Robert Spradling, Conductor. 8:15 pm. Free. 269-387-4667. www.wmich.edu/music.

February 19-28 The University Theatre, Gilmore Theatre Complex “Oedipus”. Reset in its original African context, this searing contemporary translation by poet Ted Hughes electrifies the classic myth. Feb 19-21, 26-28 - 8 pm; Feb. 22 -2 pm. $20, $15 Seniors, $5 Student. 269-387-3227. www.wmich.edu/theatre.

February 20 & 21 Radisson Plaza Hotel Kalamazoo Women’s Expo & Sale – Fashion, vendors, workshops and more! Fri. 6 – 9 pm Sat. 11 am-4 pm. Admission: $5.00 Advance/$8.00 At Door www.KZWomensExpo.com.

February 20 & 21 Whole Art Theater, 246 N. Kalamazoo Mall “Go Google Yourself, or A Slap in the Facebook”.

Crawlspace Eviction performs live improv and sketch comedy! 8 pm. $7 students, $10 general.

269-599-7390. www.crawlspaceeviction.com.

February 20-22 Wellspring Theater at the Epic Center Wellspring’s Dance Forum Featuring Tammy Metz Starr. The 25th Annual Dance Forum. $15 Adults, $10 with Student ID, Free for children ages 5 and younger. Fri. & Sat. 8 pm, Sun. 2 pm. 269-342-4354. www.wellspringdance.org.

February 21-March 22 Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Young Artists of Kalamazoo County. Includes work from public, private, parochial and charter schools throughout Kalamazoo County. Tues. - Sat. 10-5 Sun. 12 -5 Free. 269-349-7775. www.kiarts.org.

February 21 Deep Lake Teaching Review Day. Light Warrior Clan will gather from 10- 4pm for a Make a Talking Stick workshop.

A Talking Stick is a great communication aid for groups, teams,families and/or couples. Registration is required at mlapearl@aol.com or 269.966.3116.

February 21 Kalamazoo Nature Center International Year of Astronomy Event1-3 pm. FREE admission from 1-3 pm! 269-381-1574 ext. 0. www.

NatureCenter.org.

February 21 Wings Stadium Professional Bullriders, Kalamazoo Invitational. Sat. 8 pm, Sun. 2 pm. $40, $25, & $20, Ages 2-12 $10.

269-345-5101. www.wingsstadium.com

February 21 Richland Area Community Center Legacy Writers Memoir Workshop – 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

– Learn how to preserve your memories in Story Form $15 per person.

February 23 Dalton Center Recital Hall Western Michigan University Symphony Orchestra.

Student Chamber Ensembles. 8:15 pm. Free. 269387-4667. www.wmich.edu/music.

February 24 Kalamazoo Nature Center Boomers and Beyond: Maple Sugar Magic Please bring a lunch; to conclude the program, we’ll eat some maple treats! Interactive, social, outdoor program for adults 55+. 11 am-1 pm. Free with Regular KNC admission. 269-381-1574 ext. 0. www.

NatureCenter.org.

February 24 Kalamazoo Institute of Arts ARTbreak: “Expressions in Four Dimensions: The Art of the Home Landscape”. Joyce Latta, landscape architect and instructor at the KIA’s Kirk Newman Art School, discusses creating sculptured space in time. 12:15 pm. Free. 269-349-7775. www.kiarts. org.

February 24, March 10 & 24 Transformations Spirituality Center Spiritual Literacy: Mystical Hope – Trusting in the Mercy of God, by Cynthia Bourgeault. 7-8:30 pm. $20 for the series. www.transformationscenter.org 269-381-6290 ext. 310.

February 25 Radisson Hotel Plaza South Western Michigan Go Red for Women Luncheon – Join the American Heart Assoc. in raising funds to wipe out heart disease in women.

Guest speaker: Diana Nyad 2009 9:30 am–2 pm Info: Ebony R. 269-352-0785 or Ebony.Robinson@ heart .org February 25 Borgess-Lakeview Hospital in Paw Paw Cryoablation Talk. Dr. Roger Beyer, MD, MA, FACOG will discuss this in-office procedure for abnormal uterine bleeding. Refreshments served. Call 269657-6058 to reserve a seat.

February 26-March 1 Nelda K. Balch Playhouse Student Playwriting Festival. The Third Student Playwriting Festival two evenings of fully staged 10-minute plays and three performances of staged readings of one-act plays; brand new work from the young artists of the future of our theatre. Thur, Fri, Sat 8 pm, Sun 2 pm. Adults $15, Seniors/Students $10. Thurs. $1. 269-337-7333. www.kzoo.edu/ theatre.

February 26 Borgess-Woodbridge in Portage Incontinence Talk. Dr. Roger Beyer M.D., M.A., F.A.C.O.G, will give a FREE informal talk on Urinary Incontinence in women at The Lawrence Education Center at Borgess Hospital. Please call (269) 6576189 to reserve a seat. 6:30-8:00 pm. Refreshments will be served.

February 27 Radisson Plaza Hotel “Grape Expectations”. Get ready for a memorable evening – a gathering of community, family and friends, exceptional samplings of fine wines, delicious dishes from more than a dozen of the area’s best restaurants, and a creative soundscape of live

jazz. Price includes admission, wine sampling and conversation with wine experts, food prepared by some of the area’s finest chefs and live jazz. 7-10 pm. $45 on or before Feb. 1; $50 after Feb. 1. 269382-8350. www.volunteerkalamazoo.org.

February 27 Miller Auditorium KSO - Marimba Magic. Praised by critics as “a virtual wizard on the marimba,” Makoto Nakura returns to Kalamazoo to perform Pierre Jalbert’s Marimba Concerto. Wagner’s Tannhauser: Overture and Venusberg Music opens the concert and Schumann’s Rhenish Symphony rounds out the program. 8 pm. $19 - $49. 269-349-7759. www.

KalamazooSymphony.com.

February 27-March 14 Parish Theatre, 426 S. Park St. “Doubt”. This powerful new work, focused less on scandal than on fascinating questions of moral certainty, is sure to leave audiences debating the cost of justice. Fri. & Sat. 8 pm, Thurs. 3/5 - 7:30 pm, Sat. 2 pm. 269-343-1313. www.kazoocivic.com.

February 28-April 26 Kalamazoo Institute of Arts 2009 West Michigan Area Show. Free. 269-3497775. www.kiarts.org.

February 28 State Theatre Bonnie Raitt. 8 pm. $65. 269-345-6500. www.kazoostate.com.

February 28 Kalamazoo County Expo Center, Hazel Gray & Room E Garage Sale Art Fair. Annual gathering of artists and their creations at bargain prices. 9:30 am - 4 pm. $2 Adults. www.garagesaleartfair.com.

February 28 Transformations Spirituality Center Pray All-Ways: Exploring How We Pray. 9 am – 12:30 pm. $35. www.transformationscenter.org. 269-3816290 ext. 310.

February 28 & March 1 Stage Coach Barn, Richland, MI Bob Marley Birthday Bash Tour 2009. All age show featuring Zion Lion and DJ Assane. Caribbean food and crafts. 8 pm - 1 am. $5. 269-271-5219. www. blackhawkgrill.com/barn.

February 28 Kalamazoo Nature Center Maple Sugar Tours. Tour begins with a 30 minute video inside, followed by a 45-minute hike to the sugar shack (dress for the weather). -Hiking Spree: Earn a special maple medallion for joining this walk.

1 & 3 pm. Free with Regular KNC admission. 269381-1574 ext. 0. www.NatureCenter.org.

February 28 Richland Area Community Center When Lego Toys Become Real – The first of six sessions at 10:15. Kids ages third-fifth grade will explore Legos mechanisms in a whole new way.

Learn more at www.richlandareacc.org $8 per session or $40 for all 6.

March 1 Miller Auditorium Fred Garbo Inflatable Theater Co. Fred Garbo Inflatable Theater Co. stars pneumatic wizard Fred Garbo and Brazilian ballerina Daielma Santos. This exquisite duo has performed around the world, transcending barriers of age and language in a seamless program that includes physical comedy, dance, juggling, and most importantly, their own creative inventions that INFLATE! 3 pm. $15-$20.

269-387-2300. www.millerauditorium.com.

March 5 Borgess-PIPP Hospital in Plainwell Incontinence Talk. Dr. Roger Beyer M.D., M.A., F.A.C.O.G, will give a FREE informal talk on Urinary Incontinence in women at The Lawrence Education Center at Borgess Hospital. Please call (269) 6576189 to reserve a seat. 6:30-8:00 pm. Refreshments will be served.

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• February 2009

27

Interior Ideas

Create Your Own

Sound

Music is another way to create a romantic atmosphere. Choose wisely. The songs or genres you pick can affect the type of mood you want to create.

When imagining a romantic getaway, look no further than your very home.

Create a passionate retreat and ignite your love life in more ways than one by appealing to the five senses. Best yet, these added touches can be less expensive and last longer than a tropical getaway.

If you’re looking to liven up the night, more powerful tunes may be in order. But if a more intimate vibe is what you seek, stick with classical or a smooth jazz. Avoid music with words, which can distract from the moment.

Touch

The texture of bed linens is an important factor to consider. Avoid anything too rough or coarse on the skin, and stick to sheets with a higher thread count. Anything over 350 is optimal. Stay away from heavy fabrics such as flannel which can generate unnecessary heat. Consider soft accent pillows or blankets in a chenille.

The supple texture will make your room more inviting and romantic, without being too over-the-top.

Although wood flooring is popular, nothing is worse then being greeted by a cold, hard floor when you wake up in the morning. Choosing plush, thick carpet for your bedroom will make the entire room cozier, not to mention softer and gentler on your feet. Keep the color neutral so focus stays on the romantic colors and elements throughout the rest of the room.

Scent

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When it comes to invigorating the senses, scent should not be ignored. In fact, research shows that a person’s memories are most strongly related to his or her sense of smell. So, give your partner an experience he or she will never forget by incorporating some spicy aromas like vanilla or cinnamon into the room.

Taste

Scented candles or fragrant oils are great for creating a memorable atmosphere, perfect for unwinding and letting loose.

Sprinkle the bed with rose petals for a softer, floral scent or dress up the den with hints of lavender, citrus or jasmine - all known to arouse the senses. Don’t go overboard - a little bit goes a long way.

Chocolate, strawberries and champagne are extremely luxurious in taste and texture. The silkiness of the chocolate and the bright body of the champagne are sure to make an explosive, and sparkling, combination. Strawberries offer a much sweeter and juicier sensation, perfect for puckering up those lips. Plus, taking turns feeding each other is a great way to connect. Other aphrodisiacs include avocados, bananas and honey.

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• February 2009

For years, people have considered a person’s taste buds to be a very sensual part of the body.

Many foods and drinks contain an aphrodisiac quality that can be useful for adding a little flavor to your love life.

Sight

Visual stimulants may be the single most important factor when setting the mood.

So, when preparing your home for a romantic rendezvous, liven it up with a splash of color. Variations of red, purple and orange work best to stimulate passion.

“Colors play an important role in the bedroom,” says Donna Schroeder, color marketing and design manager for paint manufacturer Pratt & Lambert. “If you want to add romance and sizzle to the space, stick to fiery colors which can arouse desire and excitement. Avoid lackluster shades like white and beige.”

Twilight Chimes, Flirtation, Bed of Roses, Taffy Lips and Enchantress are just some of the sensual hues in Pratt & Lambert Paint’s color palette that can help do the trick.

Replacing dull sheets and bedroom accessories with ones that pack a powerful punch is another way to turn up the volume. Throw pillows and drapes can also spark some visual heat in a cool room.

Lighting is an important factor in setting the mood for romance. For a provocative and mysterious ambience, keep the room dim, but not dark.

Enjoy each others company in the warm and cozy glow of the fireplace.

Candles are essential in creating a loving touch for a romantic dinner. They can also cast a flattering light in the bedroom.

649 Romence Rd. Portage — In the Shoppes at Romence Village

www.thirdcoastfutons.com • 269-323-9667

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• February 2009

29

Conquer Your Clutter You know the story: You went on a trip and wanted to pick up a small something to remember the place – a little salt and pepper set maybe. How cute. Trip after trip, they added up. Friends and family found your collection so cute that they too began to pick up salt and pepper shakers when traveling… for you. The salt and peppers outgrew the kitchen display shelf and then the hutch. You even tried serving Thanksgiving dinner with a small pair by each place setting – cute idea, but a lot of pepper-filling sneezing going on.

When does that beloved collection become clutter? Collections often start by accident, as like items begin to accumulate, but pretty soon they’re out of control. That’s what you want to stop in its tracks.

Keeping Collections You Love Under Control

By Alexandra Fix

Give it a space

Determine just how much space you want to give to a particular collection and firmly maintain that decision.

If you decide on one shelf for your cookbook collection, don’t let it spill onto a second shelf. It will just keep growing. Instead, purge the first shelf periodically so there’s always room for one more cookbook.

One way to handle a large collection is to display only part of the collection at a time. Allot a certain display space in your living area and enjoy your arrangement.

Clear a shelf in your basement and store the remainder of the items there. If you have easy access, it will be simple to rotate pieces as you wish.

Another interesting space might be a mixed arrangement. Try displaying those salt and pepper shakers among your cookbooks. Mix collectible figurines and frames among the book collection on your bookcase.

Give it a season

Collections are meant to be displayed, not to be hoarded away, but sometimes there is just too much for too long. This is when a seasonal collection can be quite satisfying. My own personal collection is an assortment of nutcrackers. Naturally associated with the Christmas holiday, I’ve extended that season to include Thanksgiving because of the setup work involved. As much as I enjoy being surrounded by this collection for a couple of months, I am just as delighted when January comes and I put them all in storage. I replace their space with minimalism. Many of their former surfaces are dusted and bare and the

30

curio cabinet simply holds glass and clean lines for the rest of the winter season.

Give it a use

If possible, don’t just display your collections, use them. Enjoy them. Serve tea in your teapots. Wear your vintage aprons while cooking and offer them for pleasurable guest use. Incorporate your collectibles into clothing or objects you might make. Sew button and ribbon treasures you find onto sweaters or pillows.

have decided to limit your collection. If there’s a particularly prolific offender, send that individual a personal note saying how much you have appreciated her gifts but how you’ve now decided to reduce the collection acquisitions. In fact, along with the note, gift her with a favorite she gave you in the past. (If necessary, keep re-gifting her past gifts until she gets the hint or begs for your whole collection.)

Give it away

Give it some organization

Have you somehow acquired too many heirlooms from relatives? Why not invite family over, display the stash, and maybe oldest to youngest, let them choose what they would love to take home.

Give it a limit

Is your collection boring you? Sometimes it’s necessary to accept that interests change as time passes. Not all collections are meant to be forever.

Try this: Click a photo of your wonderfully abundant collection and then let it go. Frame the photo and simply enjoy the memory forever.

There are Internet sites available (try www.itaggit. com) that allow you to catalog your collectibles, post pictures, find their potential value, share your collections with others and sell or trade items if you wish.

If your collection is growing wild, stop purchasing on impulse. Leave the store, think it through and come back if you really must add it to your collection.

What do you do if your collectible of choice suddenly has become a trend and it’s everywhere? You don’t need every single shirt/glass/mug with a chicken emblazoned upon it. Smile when you see it in the store, but don’t purchase it unless there is a distinct draw to that one particular item. If need be, play a game of “chicken” with yourself – you can only buy the 10th chicken item you see.

How do you stop the influx from well-meaning friends? Spread the word and let them know that you

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• February 2009

When you’re ready to let your collectibles go, consider giving them to a favorite charity thrift store or a silent auction for a cause dear to you. Again, there are Internet sites ready to come to the rescue. Check out www.craigslist.org or www.freecycle.org and find people in your city who are interested in your items for free, for exchange or for purchase. Share your collectible wealth.

w o r k

i t !

You Can Work at Home

W

By Kimberly Monaghan

ith rollercoaster oil prices, a soar in Internet communication portals and a growing return to family obligations, more women and men are choosing to take work home. Corporations, franchises and web-based companies are offering vast opportunities for those who want to telecommute, make extra spending money or start a new career from the convenience of home. According to Donn Miller-Kermani with The Women’s Business Center (WBC), freedom to be able to juggle work and family is just one of the many benefits. Low start up and overhead, no additional rent to pay and a flexible schedule all add to the appeal of a work-at-home opportunity, says Miller-Kermani.

Turning to Telecommuting

One doesn’t have to leave their occupation to work at home. In fact, many professionals negotiate part- or fulltime telecommuting arrangements with their employers.

However, the American Telecommuting Association (ATA) advises that someone considering this option should evaluate several initial criteria. First, will you be able to accomplish your assignments despite household distractions? Second, will you be comfortable in a more isolated setting, away from business colleagues and corporate relationships? Once you can confidently answer yes to these and several other questions outlined on their informative Web site, ATA recommends developing a solid plan for telecommuting, talking with your supervisor, then obtaining the training and equipment you’ll need to make this transition. Once these steps are accomplished, success is just a leap from office to home.

Moonlighting

“Many individuals start a part-time home business to make extra money,” says Miller-Kermani.

Consulting, decorating, pet sitting, landscaping, home repair, entertainment, typing, data entry and other

administrative tasks for companies needing support services are all options available for part-time business start ups, she explains. “As the word of services and/or products gets out, then comes the decision of whether or not to make this a full-time business. This allows individuals to still have a paycheck coming in with benefits, while building their business and making money on the side.”

One such success story is Elizabeth Manning, who paired her experience in the fitness field with her interest in holistic wellness, and turned a moonlighting job into a thriving Arbonne healthy products business. “I started working part time with Arbonne because it let me fit it in with my busy family schedule. As time allowed, I grew the business and it was easy because I get paid for sharing with others what I love to do.”

Party to Profit

For social butterflies, party-based businesses are a wonderful way to combine work and fun. AmyJo Bazzle teaches fashion tips for women through her Premier Designs Jeweler business. Setting up home shows and parties not only allow her to develop and grow her customer base, but gives back to the hostess as well with a small commission or product discount.

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“I usually hold two to three home shows per week depending on our family obligations,” explains Bazzle.

“There are no glass ceilings for earning potential in my line of work. If I want a raise, I just make one more call or service one more customer. This type of industry lends itself to incredible earning potential.”

Other opportunities for party-based businesses include Pampered Chef, Discovery Toys and Tastefully Simple.

Many other savvy home-based entrepreneurs have created profitable business planning and organizing parties for clients. Wine tastings, children’s birthdays, graduation celebrations and even wedding receptions are all party businesses that can be launched from home.

Web-Based Work

Thanks to the Internet, one can do business world wide from the comfort of their favorite easy chair. Trading stocks, executive recruiting, travel booking, tutoring, desktop publishing, medical transcribing and even creating a web portal to promote direct shopping of retail products has provided home-based entrepreneurs with an infinite customer base. Instead of a storefront, the business assumes a web presence through which they can sell products and services, manage payments, sign contracts,

conduct business interactions, as well as consult. “The great part about having a Web site portal,” explains Manning with Arbonne, “is that it sells for you 24 hours a day. Web sites are also great tools for educating current and potential customers by helping them understand exactly how and why a product or service works. Unlike a storefront or ad campaign, Web site businesses can be updated, personalized and expanded as your own business grows.”

For those who wish to work from home, there are many resources available that give a clear understanding of what is involved, says Miller-Kermani. “Begin by contacting local government regarding requirements for operating a legitimate home-based business.” Next, gain a clear understanding of the costs, benefits and the dedication involved. “I imagine that any business, if you work diligently at it, will work,” says AmyJo Bazzle.

“Even the light bulb took hundreds of mistakes before it worked just right. So the question isn’t will it work; it’s will you work at it long enough?”

Work-at-Home Resources and Assistance: American Telecommuting Association (ATA): This organization provides step-by-step assistance and guidance with preparing a telecommuting plan, successfully making the transition, along with ongoing support for professional telecommuters. www.YourATA.com.

Home Based Businesses Resource: Guide to working out of your house, starting a home-based business, and managing your business within the law. www.business. gov/guides/home-based/ Party Plan Moms: Party Based Business Opportunities for both men and women at www.PartyPlanMoms.com Small Business Administration: Government portal providing resources and guidance for starting your own business. www.sba.gov “The 100 Greatest Ideas for Making Money on the Internet” by Ros Jay, Capstone Press, 2000.

Women’s Business Center (WBC) is partially funded through a cooperative with the U.S. Small Business Administration and is an outreach program of the School of Business of Florida Institute of Technology. www.wbc.fit.edu.

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• February 2009

31

Jamaican Jerk Shrimp and Vegetable Kebabs

Serves 4; 3 ounces shrimp, 1/2 cup vegetables, and 1/2 cup rice per serving 1/4 cup fat-free, low-sodium chicken broth

1 medium fresh jalapeño, seeds and ribs discarded, finely chopped

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

1 tablespoon soy sauce (lowest sodium available)

2 teaspoons olive oil 1/2 tablespoon salt-free jerk seasoning blend

1 pound peeled raw large shrimp (1 1/4 pounds in shells)

1 large red bell pepper, cut into 3/4-inch pieces

1 large yellow bell pepper, cut into 3/4-inch pieces 3/4 cup pineapple juice 3/4 cup water 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional) 3/4 cup uncooked rice In a large nonmetallic bowl, combine the broth, jalapeño, vinegar, soy sauce, olive oil, and seasoning blend. Add the shrimp and bell peppers, stirring to coat. Cover the bowl. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours, turning occasionally.

About 25 minutes before serving time, in a medium saucepan, bring the pineapple juice, water, and turmeric to a simmer over medium-high heat. Stir in the rice. Reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove the pan from the heat. Cover to keep warm.

Meanwhile, soak eight 8-inch wooden skewers for at least 10 minutes in cold water to keep them from charring, or use metal skewers. Preheat the grill on medium-high.

Alternately thread the shrimp and bell peppers on the skewers, discarding the marinade.

Chicken with Peach Glaze

Serves 4; 3 ounces chicken and 1/2 cup peach topping per serving

1 15-ounce can sliced peaches in fruit juice 1/4 cup fresh orange juice 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch 1/3 cup all-fruit peach spread

1 teaspoon grated orange zest

4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (about 4 ounces each), all visible fat discarded 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon snipped fresh parsley 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1/8 teaspoon paprika 1/8 teaspoon salt

2 teaspoons olive oil

These recipes are reprinted with permission from Healthy Soul Food Recipes, Copyright © 2008 by the American Heart Association. Published

by Publications International, Ltd. Look for Healthy Soul Food Recipes at grocerystore checkouts nationwide throughout the month of May, or while supplies last.

Drain the peaches, reserving 1/4 cup juice. Set the peaches aside and pour the juice into a small bowl. Add the orange juice and cornstarch to the peach juice, whisking until the cornstarch is dissolved.

Whisk in the jam and orange zest. Set aside. ut a chicken breast half with the smooth side up between two P pieces of wax paper or plastic wrap. Using the smooth side of a meat mallet or a heavy pan, lightly flatten the breast to a thickness of about 1/4 inch, being careful not to tear the meat. Repeat with the remaining chicken.

In a small bowl, stir together the flour, parsley, garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Sprinkle over both sides of the chicken. Using your fingertips, gently press the mixture so it adheres to the chicken.

In a large nonstick skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat, swirling to coat the bottom. Cook the chicken for 4 minutes on each side, or until no longer pink in the center. Remove the skillet from the heat, reducing the heat to medium low. Transfer the chicken to a plate. Set aside.

Immediately pour the reserved peach juice mixture into the skillet.

Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, or until thickened, stirring constantly.

Add the reserved peaches, stirring until combined. Return the chicken to the skillet. Spoon the peach sauce and peaches over the chicken. Heat for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the chicken and peaches are heated through.

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition• February 2009

Grill the kebabs for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink on the outside and are opaque in the center and the peppers are tender. Serve the kebabs over the rice.

Cook’s Tip: If you want to make your own salt-free jerk seasoning blend, combine 3/4 teaspoon ground allspice, 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme, crumbled. That mixture will give you exactly the amount you need for this recipe.

r e c i p e s These recipes are reprinted with permission from Healthy Soul Food Recipes, Copyright © 2008 by the American Heart Association.

Published by Publications International, Ltd. Look for Healthy Soul Food Recipes at grocerystore checkouts nationwide throughout the month of May, or while supplies last.

Curried Pork and Sweet Potato Stew Serves 4; 1 1/2 cups per serving

Cooking spray 3/4 to 1 pound lean boneless top loin pork roast, all visible fat discarded, cut into 1-inch cubes

1 medium onion, chopped

4 medium garlic cloves, minced

2 medium sweet potatoes (10 to 13 ounces each), peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes

3 medium carrots, cut crosswise into 1/4-inch slices

1 large parsnip, peeled and cut crosswise into 1/4-inch slices

1 tablespoon curry powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin 1/8 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon pepper

1 14.5-ounce can fat-free, low-sodium chicken broth

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1 tablespoon cold water

2 tablespoons snipped fresh cilantro Lightly spray a Dutch oven with cooking spray. Cook the pork, onion, and garlic over medium-high heat for 5 minutes, or until the pork is lightly browned, stirring occasionally.

Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

Serves 12; 3-inch square plus one heaping tablespoon topping per serving Cake

1 12 1/2

1 3/4

1

20-ounce can pineapple tidbits in their own juice, undrained maraschino cherries cup fat-free caramel topping 18.25-ounce package yellow cake mix cup egg substitute 4-ounce jar baby food puréed apricots with pears and apples Cooking spray

Stir in the sweet potatoes, carrots, and parsnip. Sprinkle with the curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pour in the broth and stir. Increase the heat to high, cover, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Put the cornstarch in a cup. Add the water, stirring to dissolve.

Stir into the stew. Stir in the cilantro. Increase the heat to medium. Cook for 5 minutes, or until boiling and slightly thickened, stirring frequently.

Topping

1 cup frozen fat-free whipped topping, thawed in refrigerator

2 tablespoons fat-free caramel topping Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a 13x9x2-inch baking pan with cooking spray.

Drain the pineapple, reserving 3/4 cup juice. Pat the pineapple dry with paper towels. Drain the cherries. Cut in half. Pat dry with paper towels.

Drizzle 1/2 cup caramel topping in the pan. Cover the bottom with the pineapple. Evenly arrange the cherries with the cut sides up over the pineapple.

In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cake mix, egg substitute, baby food, and reserved pineapple juice. Using an electric mixer, beat according to the package directions. Gently spoon the batter over the fruit, lightly smoothing the top.

Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a cake tester or wooden toothpick inserted in the center comes out almost clean. Transfer to a cooling rack and let cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Run a spatula around the edges of the cake to loosen it. Invert onto a large flat platter. Let cool for at least 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a small bowl, stir together the whipped topping and remaining 2 tablespoons caramel topping. Spoon onto the cake. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• February 2009

33

By Alexandra M. Fix

Lauren Fix’s Guide to Loving Your Car

By Lauren Fix St. Martin’s Griffin, 2008, $16.95

In the words of author and automotive safety and driving expert, Lauren Fix (no relation to this reviewer), “This book is designed to give you Car Smarts, to empower you to make the right maintenance and driving decisions, to educate you on buying, selling, and leasing, and to provide a wealth of safety details that are too easily overlooked in our busy lives.” There’s a great section on the initial purchase of a car and the considerations that should go into that choice.

Fix discusses insurance terms you need to know and the pros and cons of warranties and roadside assistance packages. Her driving tips include The Ten Commandments for courteous driving. An excellent section of the book clearly explains what to do in handling an extensive list of accidents and emergencies. These range from keys locked in a car to a gas pedal stuck in acceleration; from lightning strikes to black ice encounters; from deer in the headlights, all the way to what to do if you’re driving when an earthquake occurs. A very complete section advises readers on how to use your senses and explain a car problem to a technician.

A thorough description of car parts will serve well as a handy reference when you do get that ominous car problem diagnosis.

Dying far too young at the age of 60, Barbara leaves behind her diary, and for each of her daughters, a letter and a gift. The siblings bond and clash over these messages from their “mum.” What could be maudlin is not. This novel is thought provoking and at times joyful and humorous. This is a very real family whose lives are cluttered with the good and the bad of it all. Even Barbara is a complicated character, less perfect than she at first seems. We come to know her through her words and her offspring.

Things I Want My Daughters to Know

By Elizabeth Noble William Morrow, 2008, $22.95

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All four sisters have issues not yet resolved in their lives and each has missed an opportunity to glean some final advice from her mother. Lisa, the oldest, is in her thirties and having a difficult time making a decisive commitment to a longterm relationship. Jennifer, married but childless, is unhappy with the mediocrity and emptiness of her life. Amanda, always restless, always traveling, is in her twenties and seeking a direction in her life. Hannah, the youngest daughter, is just 15 and on the brink of young womanhood. Living at home, she struggles with her dad’s loneliness. As Barbara’s life story unfolds more completely, each daughter comes to understand her own life and choices a little better.

(Note: Although true to the character’s voice, there is occasional language that some readers may find offensive.)

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• February 2009

Conversation Starter: Loving Frank

By Nancy Horan Ballantine, 2008, $14

In the early 1900s, Frank Lloyd Wright was an up-andcoming architect in the Chicago area. His innovative designs were all the rage and Edwin Cheney wanted a part of that new look. Commissioning Mr. Wright to design his new house in Oak Park, Ill. would set into motion a connection that would ultimately destroy that very home and the Cheney marriage. This historical novel is the story of the love affair between Mamah Borthwick Cheney, Edwin’s wife, and Frank Lloyd Wright, Catherine Wright’s husband.

Their illicit liaison rocked the Oak Park community in which they lived. Neither aggrieved spouse wanted to grant a divorce, so Mamah and Frank were living on scandalous ground together. Leaving their children behind, the couple moved to Germany for a period of time, hoping to live what they called an “authentic life.” In her own right, Mamah’s influence on Frank’s creativity was significant. A graduate of the University of Michigan and a librarian by profession, Mamah found great satisfaction in translating the works of Ellen Key, a Swedish feminist. The couple returned from Europe when Frank began to build his beloved Taliesin in Wisconsin, but they continued to face pressure for their socially unacceptable living arrangement. A shockingly tragic ending marks the very high price paid by this couple for living outside of society’s standards.

This novel gives narrative to the complicated lives of Frank Lloyd Wright and Mamah Borthwick Cheney. Written in Mamah’s voice, readers are privy to her agonizing decisions about self fulfillment, choices in relationships and love of her children. Throughout the book, there are moments when readers are drawn to and repelled by both lead characters.

The issue of Mamah’s mothering choices will surely provoke intense discussion. The early years of the suffrage quest and the feminist movement in Europe and America will provide interesting conversation. Attitudes and relationships create focal points for discussion. One great addition to the conversation will be the publisher’s Web site with its suggestions of additional resources, including photos, for those who get caught up in the facts about these individuals’ lives.

Alexandra Fix is the author of ten non fiction children’s book, including the series Reduce, Reuse, Recycle (Heinemann Library). She is a former children’s librarian, registered nurse, freelance writer and avid reader. Enjoying college one class at a time while her children were growing up, fed her love of literature and creative writing. She and her husband have five grown children and multiple grandchildren living all over the country.

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