Matters of the Heart - February 2012

February 2012

Free!

Take Me Home

Chocolate

Puppy Love

E s s e n t i a l

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E n l i g h t e n i n g

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E n t e r t a i n i n g

w w w. wo m e n s l i f e s t y l e k a z o o . c o m

Go Red For Women

Special Bridal Pullout Section

February 2012 Table of Contents

The People Who Make It Happen...

Publisher: Darlene Clifford dclifford@womenslifestylekazoo.com

Contributing Writers: Sandy Derby Kelly Duggan Emily L. Magyar Heidi McCrary Jeff Murphy Judy Pearson Erica Shier

MATTERS OF THE HEART Go Red for Women Sheri Fitch................................................10 Just a Little Heart Attack ..........................11 Shermane Winters-Wofford......................12 Liz Tatham ................................................13 BRIDAL GUIDE ...................................B 1 – B 16

Sales: Sales Manager Ruth Ann Dibert radibert@womenslifestylekazoo.com

BROADEN YOUR HORIZONS Sales Representatives:

Wine is a Girl's Best Friend .............................5

Brenda Murphy Maria Pavletic

Courage Concepts: Wrinkle, Wrinkle Go Away .....................................................8

Layout & Design: jr4 designs JR Harper

Pick a Paint Color You’ll Love.........................18 Puppy Love ....................................................24

Photography:

Hoarding: When Love Means Never Having to Throw Things Away ..................26

K. Redmond Photography www.facebook.com/kredmondphotography

Reader’s Lounge ...........................................30

Office Manager: Patty Clifford

BUSINESS & FINANCE

Contact Us

Financial Sauve .............................................17

By Phone: 269-350-5227 Sales Info: 269-271-1032

LOOKING & FEELING GOOD

By Mail:

Lovely Accessories ..........................................6

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

Secrets of the Trade.........................................7 Blooming Love ...............................................17

By Email: info@womenslifestylekazoo.com

Website: www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

RECIPES Soul Food Recipes Warm Peach Bread Pudding....................14 Oven Fried Catfish with Creamy Orange Dipping Sauce.............................14 Henderson Castle Signature Dish Steak Diane .............................................20 Chocolate Gluten-Free Almond Sacher Torte ...........22 Red Velvet with Love Cupcakes ...............23 COMMUNITY NEWS & HAPPENINGS

Coming In March The Foodie

Calendar ........................................................28 Buy Local .......................................................30 February 2012

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From the Publisher

Signature Photography - Barb Pachulski

Happy Valentine’s Day! In recognition of this special day of love, I am sharing the latest photograph of the “loves” of my life – my family. I’d also like to introduce you to the newest member of our growing family: Ronin Eric Clifford, my son’s second son! Ronin was in a hurry to get here, so he was born 3 weeks early on October 22 and he was tiny at only 4 lbs. 13 oz.

His wonderful mother, Patty Clifford (who also just happens to be our dynamic WLSK Office Manager) has done a great job of getting him up to speed and three months later, he’s weighing in at 11 lbs. and has the cutest chubby cheeks!

Welcome Ronin! And welcome back to work Patty! We definitely missed you.

Matters of the Heart! This month we are thankful to be working with the American Heart Association and with Borgess, as the page sponsor, to bring you vital information about Go Red For Women. Did you know that one out of every three women is impacted by heart disease? Did you also know that by making simple lifestyle changes and helping the women closest to you to implement them too, we can transform those statistics? As you know, when we women are determined to change something, dynamic things begin to happen.

Bridal Insert! I hear wedding bells ringing, or at the very least, warming up for the upcoming months. For those of you who will be involved in planning a wedding, we have our second annual pull out section designed to help you create the event of your dreams. Please remember to call or visit our sponsors, who are among the top professionals in their specialty. To the brides, mothers of the happy couple and everyone touched by their event – from our heart to yours – Congratulations! We are so happy for you and wish you only the best.

2012 WLSK Expo! Please mark your calendar for Friday & Saturday March 2 & 3rd.Then come on over to the 2012 Women’s LifeStyle Expo at the newly remodeled Kalamazoo Expo Center. We’ve changed to date this year to avoid the snow and invite a spring time atmosphere for all the things we love. It will be a day filled with pampering, learning, shopping and eating opportunities. And WINNING – we will be giving away lots of gifts and doorprizes.

We’ve made this day ABOUT YOU! All you have to do is show up to enjoy.

That’s it for another February, the month of LOVE! So let’s end with that!

Darlene 4

February 2012

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Wine Is A Girl ’s Best Friend

Valentine’s Day, the holiday of romance and love, seems to go hand and hand with wine. So I thought it fitting to talk about wine from the poetic region of Puglia, Italy this month. There is a verse from an Italian poem that was used long ago for a tourism ad in southern Italy. Roughly translated, it eloquently expressed, "No earthly wish can give my heart harmony as much as the certainty of sun that overflows from your sky."

Located on the south east coast of Italy, the landscape of Puglia is drenched in sunshine and surrounded by the passionate seas. The people of this region infuse

A Red Wine to Pair with Meats (AND Dark Chocolate!)

“Aglianico”

poetry and passion into the wines they make with all their heart and soul.

Whether you are celebrating with a lovely Valentine’s dinner or indulging in a chocolate and wine pairing (Cupid’s favorite I am sure!) or presenting a unique wine as a Valentine’s gift, the reasons are many to have a unique bottle of wine on hand on February 14th.

Inspired by the poetry and passion of Puglia and in the spirit of Valentine’s Day I have two RED wines to share with you:

Locally you can find these wines at the below locations.

Oakwood Bistro, Webster’s, D&W, Irving’s Shipping Available Please Call: 269-998-9300 More Information can be found at www.SkandisFineWine.com

revered by kings and poets.

It has aromas and flavors of black fruits, smoke and dark chocolate. It is grown in volcanic ash on the slopes of Mount Vulture.

and White Meats

“Negroamaro” As Marco Polo’s ship arrived

is southern Italy's greatest grape, a wine that was

A Red Wine to Pair with Fish

Christine Skandis founded Skandis Fine Wines, LLC for the purpose is preserving heirloom grape varietals – wines the typical consumer has never heard of - grapes that could otherwise reach a level of extinction because they are grown in such limited quantities.

Christine was inducted into the Dionysian Society International, the world’s oldest wine society in 2006. She is one of only 6 female members in the world.

at the Asian coast, so did this grape arrive to the coast of Italy from Greece. Teanum Negroamaro was custom vinifyed to be pair with fish.

It is not a typical Negroamaro as it is elegant with low tannins and a good level of acidity, fresh and peppery.

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LoveLy

Accessories

Have a heart • Louis Vuitton Heart coin purse $138 • Brighton Stardust sunglasses $85.00 • Juicy Couture’s silver-plated link charm bracelet $60 • Vivienne Westwood Melissa Dragon Heart shoes $180

Show your romantic side Lafayette 148 ensemble: • Double faced cape $498 • Fine gauge Merino turtleneck $228 • Weightless Lamskin curvy pant $798

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In November 2011 I had the exciting opportunity to meet Clinton Kelly, host of TLC’s highly rated ‘What Not to Wear’ show, at a style and fit event in Chicago. If you have watched the show you know how Clinton feels about ‘fit’ – it’s pretty important! At KDIC we believe the same thing, having seen many great looks ruined by missing this crucial styling point. As an image consultant I took the opportunity of a ‘fit assessment’ with Clinton, looking at ways to create better shape and style with a great new garment that I had purchased to keep a fall-winter wardrobe current. Here are a few points to consider in achieving a great fit in a garment, along with a fabulous style.

How do I find clothes that fit?!

Suzanne, Scotts Believe me when I say that you are not alone in your struggle to find garments that fit. However, you should know that it’s a skill that can be learned. Here are a few tips to help you: • Wear proper foundation garments in great condition (e.g. bra, underwear, shapers, hosiery). You should also have a bra fitting every two years.

• Buy by fit, not by size. Every woman’s closet will likely have two to three sizes in it, since there is really no standardization in sizing. If the size on the tag bothers you, you can always clip it out once you’ve made the purchase.

• Select garments that fit your body “challenge area” first, and then consider what types of alterations may need to be made to the rest of the garment.

• When trying on garments with belts, like cardigans or dresses, take the belt out of the loops and place it back on to sit at your natural waist line. Simply moving or removing the loops can change a look from drab to fab.

• Have a good seamstress or tailor in your contact list, as commonly seen offenses like sleeves that are too long, incorrect pant hem length, and pulling or puckering across the bust in shirting and jackets are often easy to fix.

• Factor in simple alterations for a great look, particularly in dress and career garments. When alterations become extensive consider it a red flag and potentially not a wise purchase.

How do I determine a correct length for a pant hem? Cindy, Kalamazoo We’ll look to menswear for a simple guideline to follow when considering pant hem length. Pants should not pool at the ankle or ride above the shoe, but have a slight break in the fabric as it meets the front of the shoe. The base of the pant should end at approximately the point where the heel of the shoe meets the back of the actual shoe. This guideline will help you when considering straight, boot, flare, or full cut pants. You should also consider the overall feel of the look that you desire to achieve. I still stick by my golden rule, which is “when in doubt, don’t!”

Kelly Duggan is an Image Consultant specializing in executive and personal image development, etiquette and communication skills. She is a certified member of the Association of Image Consultants International. Contact Kelly at: www.kellyduggan.com

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her eyeliner and I helped her,” she stated. “The problem is that her eyelids are all wrinkly. But if she pulls them straight, the wrinkles go away and it goes on smooth as silk.”

Wrinkle, Wrinkle, Go Away One of life’s great mysteries was solved the other day, although I must admit it never occurred to me that my eyelids were a mystery. I am, as I write this, in rainy, cold Britain, visiting my son’s family. (He’s in the middle of a 6 month deployment to Afghanistan.) My 10 year old granddaughter was getting ready for a musical performance the other day, and was elbow deep in her mother’s eyeshadows and sparkle powders. Wanting to engage her in an activity, I asked her to help me with my make up.

wearing more eyeliner than normal to compensate, but have never been very good at its application.)

I mentioned this to my granddaughter and she offered to help me with it. Once the right eye was completed, her brow furrowed, and before beginning the left, she suggested I pull at the outer corner, creating a smoother palette. Her slowly spreading smile led me to believe the result was what she had hoped for.

Not bad, I thought, looking in the mirror when she had finished.

(SIDE NOTE: While my hair is coming back, now resembling Seconds later, I heard her Mia Farrow’s in Rosemary’s Baby, proudly relate the event to her my eyelashes are still struggling. mother: “Gigi had trouble with Consequently, I’ve resorted to

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All wrinkly? Like an old lady’s?

Moi? This was bad, very bad, and not at all how I would have described my eyelids. However it led me down an interesting path. We never know how we appear in the eyes of others. We are rarely even aware that others are watching us. But they are.

Obviously then, it’s important that we do our best to appear in a positive light (wrinkles and all).

And that includes being courageous.

There are many reasons for being courageous, aside from the obvious fact that it helps us through difficult periods. First, by being courageous women, we set wonderful examples for those who look up to us the

most: the children in our lives, both boys and girls. The importance of setting an example of courage for girls is fairly obvious. But just as it’s important for boys to have positive male role models, they also need positive female role models. When they observe our courage in action, boys will better appreciate and respect women, regardless of the stage on which it’s played out.

Furthermore, by leaving a courageous footprint for others to follow, big or small, we could help them through a difficult period without even being aware of it.

And I can tell you from personal experience, if you bear that in mind while facing life’s challenges, your own fear really will fade away.

Unlike, I’m sorry to say, the wrinkles on your eyelids!

Judy Pearson is the founder of Courage Concepts, an organization which fosters courage in women through seminars and Courage Conventions. Judy is also the author of magazine and newspaper articles, as well as two books about ordinary people who exhibited extraordinary courage. Her latest, Wolves at the Door, has been optioned for a movie.

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Promotes Heart Health

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Promotes Heart Health Sheri Fitch Sometimes just a simple message on a billboard or magazine can change your life. Sheri Fitch of Portage knows this first hand. She felt like she was a pretty healthy and active young grandmother – working for Daane’s Catering and taking an active role with her children and their families, but she was getting short of breath. She blamed it on her lack of exercise, some weight gain and aging.

Sheri had seen some messages about women and heart disease including billboards and a newspaper ad for the Heart & Stroke Prevention Program through Borgess Health that led her to the decision of speaking with her medical care provider. It still didn't occur to her that she might be experiencing a cardiovascular-related condition. Her primary provider encouraged her to investigate this 'nagging feeling' she had. So she called Borgess Heart Institute where they did a cardiac stress test which she failed. This led her cardiologist, Dr. Soundos Moualla, to schedule a cardiac catheterization, which showed blockages in three arteries including one which is commonly called the “widow maker” because of its seriousness.

Sheri was stunned at the seriousness of the medical staff who insisted on immediate surgery. She had thought at worst, she would have the procedure and maybe one stent and be back to work in a few days.

She never thought she would be undergoing open heart surgery to have a triple bypass.

Since the surgery Sheri has regained her energy, lost twenty five pounds and works out regularly – with no shortness of breath.

She isn’t the only family member to be touched by heart disease. One grandson, Spencer Powell, has been through some significant congenital heart issues including two open heart surgeries and is an active volunteer for the American Heart Association’s Heart Walk. Sheri will be a spokesperson for the American Heart Association at the 2012 Southwestern Michigan Go Red For Women Luncheon which will be held from 10 am – 1:30 pm on Thursday, February 2 at the Air Zoo in Kalamazoo.

“I will be thrilled to be there and wearing red,” said Sheri. “I hope that other women might hear the message that I learned first-hand, that cardiovascular disease is the No.1 killer of American Women.”

Put on a touch of red and please join the American Heart Association for a celebration to help make a difference in women’s lives. The 2012 Southwestern Michigan Go Red For Women Luncheon raises money for research and education of heart disease in women. The morning includes Picture & a Promise, exhibits, networking and the “Purse-inalities” silent auction. Enjoy lunch and information from a leading researcher on heart disease. National Sponsors include Macy’s and Merck. The local Presenting Sponsor is Borgess Health. Other local sponsors include: PNC MPI Research, Bronson and the United Dairy Industry of Michigan. Media sponsors include: The Kalamazoo Gazette, AM590 WKZO, FM 106.5 and Women’s Lifestyle of Greater Kalamazoo. Tickets are required for this event. For tickets or sponsorship call Al Shifflett III at 269.806.0425 or al.shifflett@heart.org. You may also visit www.swmigoredforwomen.org.

Love Your Heart: TIPS FOR DAILY LIVING Make Easy Lifestyle Changes. For Example:

❤ Look for short breaks each day (approx. 10-30 minutes) to implement heart healthy activities such as walking or other types of enjoyable physical activity

❤ Take the Go Red Heart Checkup at www.GoRedForWomen.org to learn your heart disease risk

❤ Plan quick and simple healthy meals ❤ Know your family heart health history 10

February 2012

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Promotes Heart Health

G

o Red For Women is the American Heart Association’s solution to save women’s lives.

With one out of three women still dying from heart disease, they are committed to fighting this number one killer that can be prevented.

GoRedForWomen.org, a source of information and education, connects millions of women of all ages and gives them tangible resources to turn personal choices into life-saving actions.

For more information please visit GoRedForWomen.org or call 1-888-MY-HEART (1-888694-3278).

Emmy-nominated actress Elizabeth Banks directs and stars in the first-ever Go Red For Women short film "Just a Little Heart Attack," inspired by the real-life stories of women who have been affected by heart disease. The entertaining, yet poignant film, which can be viewed on Facebook.com/GoRed, provides a powerful wake-up call to women across America to understand their risk for heart disease and empower them to put their health first.

One in three American women suffers from heart disease, yet only one in five believes she is personally at risk. This disconnect can leave many women unmotivated to act and even to treat heart disease.

"Unfortunately, there is a huge gap between awareness and action among women," said

Dr. Suzanne Steinbaum, Go Red For Women spokesperson and Director of Women and Heart Disease, Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City.

"Until women fully recognize their risk for heart disease – and take personal responsibility for preventing it – we will continue to lose the battle against the disparities of awareness, care and treatment among women."

Read the stories of Go Red Women who are among those that served as the driving force and inspiration for "Just a Little Heart Attack."

These survivors prove that heart disease touches real women’s lives nationwide every day.

❤ Sheri, 68 – A local Portage woman who survived multiple heart blockages.

❤ Shermane, 40 – A stroke survivor who con❤

fused her symptoms with first date jitters.

Liz, 43 – A heart disease survivor and mother of four who went from running 15 miles a week to crawling up the stairs of her house in a matter of only three weeks.

Go Red For Women asks you to make it your mission to learn the facts about heart disease and inspire the women you love to do the same.

“Just a Little Heart Attack” Inspired by true stories of real women, Go Red For Women and Emmy-nominated actress Elizabeth Banks released a short and clever film, “Just a Little Heart Attack.” The short film, directed by and starring Banks, educates women about the reality of heart disease and encourages them to put their health first.

❤ Watch the film and share it with 5 women you love. Join the movement to save lives.

❤ Learn more about women and heart disease, and what you can do to become heart healthy at GoRedForWomen.org

❤ When you join, receive your free red dress pin signifying you are Making It

Elizabeth Banks

Your Mission to fight heart disease in women.

❤ Connect with women who are making It their mission to fight heart disease at GoRedForWomen.org or Facebook.com/GoRed.

HELP GET THE WORD OUT February 2012

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Promotes Heart Health Shermane Winters-Wofford Stroke Survivor, 40 At first, Shermane Winters-Wofford thought it was first-date jitters. The young, single mom was at a nice restaurant with a guy she really liked. But while they waited for their table, Shermane’s excitement turned into something more. She began to sweat.

Tightness gripped her chest -- as if her heart was being squeezed. Embarrassed and a bit frightened, Shermane excused herself to splash some water on her face.

"When I was in the restroom trying to gather my thoughts, I was so scared," she says. "I was scared and anxious at the same time. I was completely ignorant to what was going on. I didn’t understand it."

Shermane had always thought of herself as perfectly healthy. She had grown up an active child, and still felt energetic and strong as a young adult. It never even entered her mind that she was having a stroke.

When Shermane returned to her date, she realized with alarm that her vision was blurred and she was unable to lift her arm. Her date suggested they go to a hospital, but Shermane didn’t want to be any trouble. She politely insisted that he take her home.

Once Shermane arrived home, she could no longer downplay her symptoms; they headed back out to the hospital. Scared and disoriented, Shermane was shocked when a nurse began to scold her.

"The nurse fussed at me for not taking my blood pressure medication," Shermane recalls. Though by this time Shermane was having trouble communicating, she managed to tell the nurse that not only was she not on medication, she had never had hypertension or high blood pressure in her life. Tests con-

firmed that Shermane had, in fact, had a stroke. The woman who thought of herself as perfectly healthy learned that she had been at risk all along. Like many other African-Americans, she had strong family history of high blood pressure and heart disease. Unfortunately for Shermane, this wasn’t something her family discussed until after her stroke.

After being released from the hospital, Shermane began eating better and exercising more. But she didn’t truly commit to making healthy changes in her life until several years later -- when she suffered a second stroke.

This time, Shermane recognized the symptoms and got to the hospital right away. And now she’s changed her life: eating right, exercising regularly and tracking her blood pressure every day.

Shermane is on a mission to stay healthy these days, because her life has changed in other ways as well.

"The guy who took me out on the date? A year later, since we didn’t get to have dinner that night, he took me out to the same restaurant," she says. "Later that night, he proposed to me. And we’ve been married for seven years now."

Shermane intends to tell more than five women about the dangers of heart disease and the importance of knowing their cholesterol and blood pressure numbers and family history. But she’s starting by making sure her four sisters and her two best friends know their personal risk.

"I Go Red," she says, "for all the women in my family."

Lifestyle Guidelines for ALL Women Eat Heart Healthy

❤ Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, whole-grain and high-fiber foods.

❤ Eat fish at least twice a week, preferably oily fish, or talk to your ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ 12

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healthcare provider about taking omega-3 fatty acid (fish oil) supplements.

Do your best to eat less salt (sodium) Avoid trans-fatty acids. No transfats is the goal.

Eat very little saturated fat (such as fat from meat, cheese and butter): less than 7 percent of your total calories a day.

Eat less than 150 mg of cholesterol a day.

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Promotes Heart Health Liz Tatham Heart Disease Survivor, 43

attitude she'd had in the beginning, Liz began to view her diagnosis as a death sentence.

Liz Tatham is a mom, and moms know how to fix things. Making lunches for the kids, giving rides when they miss the school bus, always remembering which night is Taekwondo class – there isn't a challenge Liz can't meet. Liz was in the best shape of her life -- so when she started having trouble breathing, climbing stairs, and even sleeping while lying down, she was determined to fix it.

"All I thought about was that I'm so happy I have my surgery on January 7th because then I get Thanksgiving, Christmas, my daughters' birthdays and New Year's with my family. Because my kids might not have me for the following Christmas."

Trouble breathing – obviously, that meant allergies. A trip to the doctor yielded medication, but no results. Liz tried everything to get better, but she only ended up feeling worse.

It was incredibly frustrating for a mom whose normal activities included volunteering for her son's running club.

Previously, Liz ran 15 miles a week with her son, but now she could barely keep up.

Finally, she decided to see a cardiologist, just as a precaution. The news was shocking: tests showed that Liz was born with a faulty valve that was backing up blood into her heart and she needed open heart surgery. Immediately, Liz's can-do attitude kicked in.

"I thought, if I can fix it, I'm good," she says. "So I walked out, and I was okay. Because I was still not fully grasping that this was my heart and everything that was involved. I just popped into ‘mom mode' and knew that if I could fix it, it was good."

Her resolve wavered as months passed and the reality of her heart surgery began to sink in. Instead of the positive

The day before her surgery, Liz looked at herself in the mirror and thought she still looked healthy. She couldn't believe what she was about to do. But at the same time, she felt relief -- finally, today was the day that someone else would fix Liz. Liz's surgery did fix her heart – at least, for now. Her doctors believe she will be healthy for ten years, and then will most likely need to have another procedure. But Liz's positive attitude is back: she concentrates on keeping herself strong and healthy, and she remains hopeful that scientific advances will offer new options to repair her heart.

Looking back, Liz can see that she was so busy fixing things for others, she ignored her symptoms.

"Women are afraid to say things about heart disease because we work so hard to be the caretakers, to be strong, to not just take care of our family but to take care of everyone around us," she says. "So many times I think that we feel that if we said something about it, it would show that we were weak."

But now she knows that she has to make herself a priority if she wants to be around for her family for years to come. And she wants other women to do the same.

"I make It my mission every day when I get up and walk out my door to inspire others to make healthy changes in their life, to lead a heart-healthy life," she says.

But mostly, Liz says, "I Go Red for my husband and my children."

WHY GO RED? Research shows that women who Go Red are more likely to make healthy choices.

❤ More than one-third have lost weight. ❤ Nearly fifty percent have increased their exercise. ❤ Six out of ten have changed their diets. ❤ More than forty percent have checked their cholesterol levels. One-third have talked with their doctors about developing heart health plans.

Explore Go Red BetterU, the FREE 12-week online fitness and nutrition makeover that can change your life. Visit GoRedForWomen.org

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Promotes Heart Health Soul Food Recipes 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/8 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger (optional) 6 cups water 1/4 cup (about) fresh fruit or 1/4 cup fat-free or light frozen whipped topping, thawed, for garnish (optional) Preheat the oven to 325°F. Lightly spray four 5-ounce porcelain ramekins or glass custard cups with vegetable oil spray.

Warm Peach Bread Pudding Serves 4; 1 ramekin per serving Vegetable oil spray 4 slices day-old reduced-calorie bread (wholewheat or multigrain preferred), crust discarded, bread diced into 1/2inch cubes (about 2 cups) 2/3 cup fresh or frozen peaches, partially thawed, or fresh apple, such as McIntosh, Jonagold, or Golden Delicious, peeled, cut into bite-size pieces 2 whites of large eggs, or 1 large egg 2 to 3 tablespoons firmly packed light brown sugar 12 ounces fat-free evaporated milk 1/2 ounce maple syrup 1/4 ounce dark rum, light rum, or bourbon 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

In a medium bowl, stir together the bread cubes and fruit.

Spoon into the ramekins.

In a small bowl, gently whisk together the egg whites and brown sugar until well blended. Gently whisk in the evaporated milk, maple syrup, rum, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and ginger.

Pour as much of the mixture as possible into the ramekins, making sure the bread cubes are soaked. Refrigerate for 10 minutes so the bread cubes will absorb the liquid.

Bake for about 35 minutes, or until the tip of a knife inserted in the center comes out almost clean and the custard is almost set (it should jiggle slightly in the center when gently shaken). Very carefully remove the ramekins from the water bath and dry them off. Let cool on a cooling rack for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh fruit or whipped topping.

Nutrition Analysis (per serving) Calories189 Total Fat 1.0 g Saturated 0.0 g Polyunsaturated 0.5 g Monounsaturated 0.0 g Cholesterol 4 mg Sodium 332 mg Carbohydrates 35 g Dietary Fibe 3g Sugars 25 g Protein 11 g Dietary Exchanges

Meanwhile, pour the water into a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat.

1 1/2 starch 1 skim milk

Arrange the ramekins in a large rectangular pan, such as a 13x9x2-inch baking dish, so they are evenly spaced, leaving at least 1 inch between ramekins. Place the pan in the oven. Slowly pour the hot water into the pan until about a third of the way up the sides of the ramekins, being careful to keep the water out of the ramekins.

This recipes are reprinted with permission from Healthy Soul Food Recipe Publications by the American Heart Association.

Published by Publications International, Ltd. Available at ShopPower.org.

oven-Fried Catfish with Creamy orange Dipping Sauce Serves 4; 3 ounces fish and 2 tablespoons sauce per serving

Fish 1/2 cup low-fat buttermilk 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal 2 teaspoons salt-free Cajun or Creole seasoning blend, or 1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 4 catfish fillets (about 4 ounces each), rinsed and patted dry 1/4 teaspoon salt Cooking spray Sauce 1/4 teaspoon grated orange zest 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice 3 tablespoons fat-free sour cream 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon sugar 1 tablespoon light mayonnaise 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice 1/2 teaspoon grated peeled gingerroot 2 tablespoons snipped fresh mint or cilantro (optional) Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil. Spray cooking oil lightly on foil.

Nutrients Per Serving Calories 211 Total Fat 4.5 g Saturated Fat 1.0 g Trans Fat 0.0 g

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Polyunsaturated Fat 1.5 g Monounsaturated Fat 1.5 g Cholesterol 69 mg Sodium 245 mg Carbohydrates 22 g

Pour the buttermilk into a medium shallow dish. In a pie pan, stir together the cornmeal and seasoning blend. Set the dish, pie pan, and baking sheet in a row, assembly-line fashion. Dip one piece of fish in the buttermilk, turning to coat and letting any excess drip off. Dip in the cornmeal mixture, turning to coat and gently shaking off any excess. Place on the baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops of the fish with cooking spray.

Bake for 10 minutes, or until the fish is golden brown and flakes easily when tested with a fork.

Remove from the oven. Sprinkle with the salt.

Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients. Refrigerate until serving time.

Sprinkle the fish with the mint. Serve the sauce on the side.

Cook’s Tip: Lightly spraying the fish with cooking spray causes the cornmeal coating to turn a richer, more golden color and adds a bit of crispness.

Fiber 1 g Sugars 6 g Protein 21 g

Dietary Exchanges 1 starch 1/2 carbohydrate 3 very lean meat

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529 College Savings Plans are an Ideal Choice for Grandparents

Considering the overabundance of toys and gadgets that kids these days accumulate, wouldn’t you rather give them a gift that will benefit them in the long-run? If so, you should consider putting away some funds for their future.

Once your own retirement income stream is secure, you may find it rewarding to contribute to the funding of your grandchildren’s education.

Yet, whereas nobody worries about what becomes of the $50 tucked inside a birthday card, gifting much larger sums often gives grandparents reason to pause. What happens if, come graduation, Johnny cashes out his savings account and buys a car to drive cross-country rather than heading off to college?

The 529 college savings plan is tailor-made for grandparents who want to help with college expenses, but want to ensure their contributions go toward a B.A. or a B.S., not an MG. Named after Section 529 of the IRS code, 529s are investment plans sponsored by individual states and managed by an independent investment firm or state agency. Most plans are geared toward investments that match the time left until the child starts college.

Created in 1996, these college savings vehicles offer tax-deferred growth and distributions used to pay for qualified expenses such as tuition, room and board, mandatory fees, books, and required computers that are tax-free. And, thanks to the Pension Protection Act of 2006 that eliminated the 2010 sunset provision for tax-free withdrawals, 529s seem destined to gain in popularity.

As great as tax-deferred growth and tax-free qualified withdrawals are, the major 529 attraction for grandparents may be that 529 assets remain under grandparent control. With 529s, the account owner, not the beneficiary, directs the use of distributions. As the 529 account owner, you can choose to change the beneficiary to another family member at any time, as long as it is someone related to the beneficiary. You can even take the money back at any time, for any reason. However, unqualified distributions are subject to income tax and a 10% penalty on the earnings.

Let’s say the child gets a full scholarship, decides not to go to college, or just doesn’t need the money, and you have no one else to transfer the funds to. Ultimately, you can use the funds yourself. You would pay taxes for not using it for educational needs.

Sound too good to be true? It gets better. In addition to being a problem-solving college savings vehicle, the 529 plan doubles as an estate planning tool. That’s because although assets in the 529 are in your name, the value of the 529 account is removed from your taxable estate. No other investment vehicle allows you to retain full control over the account, including the right to take the money back at any time, while reducing the value of your estate.

Currently, you can make up to $13,000 in 529 gifts each year to any grandchild ($26,000 if your spouse gifts, too) and not be subject to the gift tax.

What’s more, if your attorney or financial adviser has recommended that you move significant money quickly out of your estate, 529 plans offer an additional estate planning advantage, often referred to as accelerated gifting. Section 529 offers an election on Form 709 that allows the donor to treat a contribution of more than the $13,000 annual exclusion as occurring ratably over five years for gift tax purposes.

If you spread your contributions ratably over five years (20% per year) for gift-tax purposes, you

can frontload up to $65,000 per beneficiary (or $130,000 for a married couple) into a 529 plan without generating a taxable gift, assuming you make no other gifts to that beneficiary during the five calendar-year period. There is one catch. If you make a five-year election but die before the first day of the fifth calendar year, contributions allocated to the years after your death are included in your taxable estate. Note, too, if you take the money back, the assets return to your taxable estate.

Anyone else can make contributions to the 529 plan that you set up. If the child’s other grandparents want to contribute, or their aunts and uncles, they can just make the contribution to your plan.

You should name a successor custodian to take over the funds in the event of your death. The child cannot be the owner while a minor. If the child uses the funds for something other than educational expenses, taxes will be due.

The 529’s flexibility as a college savings and estate planning tool mean that it’s here to stay. Your only remaining worry might be that you stash too much cash in the plan. Remember, however, if the grandchild you first name as the beneficiary doesn’t drain the plan, you can change the beneficiary to a younger grandchild. And in a really progressive plan provision, you can name yourself as the new beneficiary.

Now, haven’t you always wanted to take an art history class?

Sandy K. Derby, CFP®, ChFC has been in the financial services industry since 1989. She has been selected as one of America’s Top Financial Planners by Consumers Research Council of America. Sandy is President of Derby Financial & Assoc. LLC, where our goal is to help women become financially secure and independent, through comprehensive financial planning. Sandy can be reached at sandykderby@derbyfinancial.net or 269-3215047. Securities and investment advisory services offered through Woodbury Financial Services, Inc PO Box 64284, St Paul MN 55164-0284, 800-800-2638. Member FINRA/SIPC and Registered Investment Advisor. Woodbury Financial Services, Inc. is not affiliated with Derby Financial & Associates, LLC.

February 2012

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Pick a Paint Color You’ll Love

Courtesy of MetroCreative Connection

P

ainting is one of the quickest and easiest ways to immediately transform the look of a room. With a change of color, any space can immediately take on a new personality. Choosing the perfect color for a room is key.

• Blue: Another calming color is blue. It can make a room serene and soothing. Blue is a cool color, which means it can also be used in abundance with little worry. Make a bedroom a quiet retreat with the right shade of blue. A touch of orange or peach blends well with blue.

There’s no right or wrong color, it’s simply about homeowners finding the right hue for them. While it may be tempting to follow the trends, sometimes the “in” colors simply do not mesh with a homeowner’s design style. In such instances it’s best to go with what feels the best. Choosing colors that impart a certain mood can also help create a dramatic, comforting or energizing space.

• Red: An energizing and dramatic color, red demands attention. It’s stimulating and provocative, and some people love an entire room of red. However, to others red can be overwhelming. But red can be used on an accent wall or sparingly to spruce up a neutral color scheme.

Certain families of colors say different things and can create a particular atmosphere. Here are some common colors and what they can do for design.

• Green: If the desire is for a relaxing, all-natural retreat, green may very well be the color to choose.

Green’s connection to nature makes the shade refreshing and soothing to the eye. It can instantly create a calming effect in any space and homeowners need not worry about going overboard with shades of green. Complementary colors to green include shades of red and pink. Use this accent color in draperies or on prints. Fill a vase with magentacolored blooms and add a special pop of color.

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• Purple: This color is often relegated to a girl’s room, but purple is elegant and regal and can add a touch of romance to a room. Individuals torn over painting with red may want to try the drama of purple, which is a bit more subdued and mysterious.

• Yellow: There are few colors more uplifting than yellow. This hue is reminiscent of a bright, sunny day. A dark house can be brightened by painting a room in a soft shade of yellow that will reflect any visible light. From bedrooms to bathrooms to kitchens, yellow is a versatile, illuminating shade.

• Orange: Another vibrant color is orange. This hue can be captivating and friendly and also brighten up dull spaces. Orange adds energy to a room, so it

may not be best for bedrooms or other calming retreats, like a den. Homeowners needn’t paint a room pumpkin to get the full effect of orange. More subtle shades, like apricot or terra-cotta, can also add the power of orange.

• Pink: Pink is a romantic color and ultra-feminine.

Pink has long considered nothing more than a bedroom color, but when used in the right fashion, it can also add spirited whimsy to a living space.

• Brown: This earthy, wholesome shade is rustic and rich. It can make a large room seem more cozy. It also exudes a feeling of sensuality and durability.

Neutral shades of brown are very popular in homes because they can be paired with many other colors, including blue, green and pink.

• White: Some homeowners think the absence of color is ideal. White is fresh, bright and clean. It’s also a timeless choice for consumers who can’t decide on another color. White goes with just about anything, but if all white seems too sterile, think about mixing white with shades of beige for just a little color.

Experimenting with color can dramatically change the look of any room in the house. Consider using an online room simulator to try out different shades before painting.

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February 2012

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Emily Magyar is a recent graduate of Albion College. She has a Bachelor's degree in English with Creative Writing and a minor in Journalism.

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February 2012

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Gluten-Free Almond Sacher Torte Makes 1 single or split double layer 10-inch frosted cake 6 1/2 1 1 1 6 3 1 1 1/2 1/2 1/4 2

large eggs, separated cup white sugar stick (1/2 cup) butter, sweet unsalted tablespoon almond extract cup confectionary sugar ounces bittersweet chocolate, melted tablespoons cocoa powder teaspoon baking powder teaspoon xantham gum cup potato starch cup almond flour teaspoon sea salt cups sliced toasted almonds

Ganache Frosting: 1 cup heavy cream 12 ounces 60 percent chocolate 2 tablespoons agave nectar Whip egg whites to soft peaks, add in white sugar and continue to whip into a firm meringue then set aside.

Cream butter, almond extract and confectionery sugar until the mixture is light in color and smooth. Add melted chocolate to butter mixture until fully incorporated and then add egg yolks one at a time.

Fold butter-chocolate mixture into the meringue. Once mixed, sift together dry ingredients and slowly add to wet ingredients until mixture is completely blended.

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes at 350째F in a 10-inch spring form pan that has been lightly coated with butter and dusted with almond flour.

Ganache Frosting: Bring heavy cream to a boil on the stove, then pour over the chocolate and agave nectar in a large mixing bowl and mix with a whisk until smooth. Allow ganache to set up overnight before use. When ready, spread ganache over top and then sides of cake in a thick layer. Garnish sides of cake with toasted almonds.

Chef Tip: Lightly brush cake with your favorite liquor before icing.

This allows the cake to stay moist longer, and adds a little extra flavor.

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While gluten-free living requires planning and preparation, it also encourages the exciting discovery of new foods and flavors.

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Please note this recipe contains Gluten Red Velvet with Love Cupcakes Makes about 20 standard cupcakes; 4 dozen minis.

For various shapes and sizes use: Valentine Standard or Mini Baking Cups, Heart Eyelet Baking Cups, Cupcake-N-Pix Combo or Heart Silicone Baking Cups 2-1/2 2 1-1/2 1 1/2 1-1/2 2 1-1/2 1 1 2 1-1/2 1

cups all-purpose flour tablespoons cocoa powder teaspoons baking powder teaspoon salt cup (1 stick) butter or margarine, softened cups granulated sugar eggs teaspoons No-Taste Red Icing Color teaspoon Imitation Clear Vanilla Extract cup buttermilk tablespoons water teaspoons white vinegar teaspoon baking soda

Buttercream Icing For decorations: Red, Rose and Black Icing Color, Red Foil Swirls Cupcake Wraps, Valentine Sprinkles, Jumbo Hearts Sprinkles, Heart Icing Decorations, Rose Icing Decorations, Candy Eyeballs Preheat oven to 350ËšF. Line muffin pan with baking cups or set silicone cups on cookie sheet and spray with vegetable pan spray.

courtesy of WInton

In medium bowl, combine flour, cocoa, baking powder and salt; set aside. In large bowl, cream butter and sugar with electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add eggs, red icing color and vanilla extract; mix well until icing color is well incorporated. Alternately add flour mixture and buttermilk; add water and mix well. In a small bowl, combine white vinegar and baking soda; gently stir into cupcake mixture. Distribute cupcake batter evenly in cups.

Bake 20 to 22 minutes for standard cupcakes, 10 to 12 minutes for mini cupcakes, or until toothpick inserted

in center comes out clean. Cool cupcakes completely.

For Love Monster Cupcakes, use tip 18 and rose icing to pipe pull-out stars on cupcake tops. Add candy eyeballs with dots of icing. Add tip 10 red icing dot nose. Use tip 4 and black icing to pipe dot pupils and outline mouth. Position heart picks.

For Other Cupcakes, spatula ice cupcake smooth or top with tip 22 mini cupcake icing swirl or tip 1M standard cupcake icing swirl. If desired, place in cupcake wraps. Top with desired sprinkles or icing decorations or add tip 4 message.

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Puppy Love

courtesy of Family Features

Exercise before bedtime As your puppy gets used to being away from its mother and pack, you may hear crying and whining at night. Try to be patient; this behavior is natural and shouldn’t last longer than a few weeks. Additionally, try keeping your puppy busy with quick training sessions or playing with toys during the early evening hours. A worn out puppy is a quiet puppy.

Pay attention to diet Transitioning from nursing to dry food can be hard on a new puppy’s digestive system. Starter products help puppies transition from milk to solids more smoothly, while providing optimal nutrition for their specific needs. These foods include nutrients that help provide energy for healthy growth and skeletal development, which is important in the early stages of puppy development. For more information on nutrition for dogs of all ages, visit www.royalcanin.us.

Stick to a routine

Bringing Home Puppy

Take your puppy out often and right before you put them in their pen or kennel before bed. Some veterinarians estimate that for every month your puppy is in your home that is one hour they can ‘hold it.’ Frequency in routine is very important for house training and rewarding victories during training can be key.

Tips for a Successful Introduction to the Family There’s no doubt a new puppy brings joy to millions of families each year. However, while bringing home a new dog is exciting, it can also be quite an adjustment period for both the puppy and the new owners.

According to veterinarian Dr. Brent Mayabb, manager of education and development at Royal Canin USA, pet parents can help ease the transition with some simple steps to ensure healthy growth and development for our fourlegged family members. Here are some tips to help make your new puppy’s transition easier for both pup and the family.

Visit the vet

Get social Socializing your new puppy early is important to help them learn proper behavior when meeting a new person or animal. Try to introduce your dog to 10 to 20 new people and pets (of varying ages and in different locations) during your first week together.

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This will help them acclimate to different sizes and temperaments of dogs and cats, as well as a variety of humans. If your dog shows signs of aggression, take them out of the situation and try again with a smaller group or in a different setting.

Your pet’s first visit to the vet is very important. The vet will help in scheduling vaccinations and explain the significance of preventative care for fleas, ticks, heartworm, and rabies among other diseases. Proper nutrition is also a means to preventing illness. Remember to bring a list of questions with you to the appointment – from the beginning, your vet will be an important part of your pet’s health.

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February 2012

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When Love Means Never Having to Throw Things Away

courtesy of MetroCreative Connection

Hoarding

P

erhaps because of the popular A&E documentary series “Hoarders,” more and more people have grown aware of the problem of hoarding in recent years. Though nearly everyone can point to at least one person in their life who never seems to throw anything away, when such behavior becomes compulsive, chances are the person perpetrating the behavior is a hoarder.

Hoarding is related to a human need to accumulate and control. Hoarding gives the hoarder a sense of security. Throwing away things feels unsafe.

In cases where people hoard animals, their behavior is not about breeding, rescuing or pet keeping. The behavior satisifies the urge to control and the hoarder puts their need to control animals ahead of basic care. Rarely are animals placed in another home and no animal is ever turned away.

While it can be difficult to determine if you or someone you know has crossed the line from pack rat or “animal rescurer” to hoarder, there are certain indicators that can help make that determination.

The love of acquisition According to Randy Frost, Ph.D., Israel Professor of psychology at Smith College in Northampton, Mass., hoarders genuinely love to acquire things, regardless of how valuable, or invaluable, the acquisition may be. All objects are treasured, be it free items or items that had to be purchased.

What’s more, the items kept often appear inconsequential to outside observers, such as old magazines or newspapers that mention nothing about the hoarder or anyone they know.

Living spaces that make it difficult to function A telltale sign of a hoarder is when living or work spaces are cluttered to the point where those spaces cannot function as they’re intended. Examples include a dining room table that cannot be used for dining because it’s cluttered with other materials or a desk that’s covered in non work-related items that make it impossible to get any work done.

Relationship trouble resulting from “collections” Hoarders’ compulsive behavior often makes things difficult on their loved ones. As a result, relationships often suffer. Hoarders’ “collections” of items can grow so large that they can no longer have guests over to visit. Partners often grow distressed at such situations, and relationship problems are common.

According to the Mayo Clinic.com, an online medical resource that utilizes a team of medical experts to provide useful and up-to-date information on a host of medical issues, additional symptoms of hoarding may include: • Perfectionism • Difficulty organizing items • Limited or no social interactions

• Inability to discard items • Moving items from one pile to another, never discarding anything • Difficulty managing daily activities, including decision-making Hoarding can be mild or severe, and mild hoarding might have little impact on a person’s life. However, severe cases of hoarding can have a daily, negative impact on an individual’s life. Oftentimes, hoarding begins when an individual finds it difficult to discard items. Such issues usually surface during a person’s teenage years, and as the individuals ages, he or she begins to acquire things with little meaning.

If you or anyone you know might have a problem with hoarding, consult a doctor or mental health provider immediately.

Hoarders’ compulsive behavior often makes things difficult on their loved ones.

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February 2012

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CALENDAR

of Events

It’s easy to get listed in our Events Calendar. Our deadline is the 10th of the monthprior to publication. Email us at: calendar@womenslifestylekazoo.com Please type Calendar in the subject line. Or you may mail your info to P. O. Box 2284, Portage MI 49081-2284 February 1 1893 Chicago World's Fair Parchment Community Library. 6:30 pm.

Historian Tom Buettner with slide presentation on Michigan's role in 1893 Fair. Free. Register at 343-7747 or www.parchmentlibrary.org February 1 – 29 Kalamazoo Indoor Flea & Farmers Market Kalamazoo County Expo Center. Tuesdays & Wednesdays 8 am – 2 pm. Come check out the flea market for great deals on all kinds of new & used items! Plus fresh produce, meat, eggs, maple syrup, honey and more! Free. Booth space, call 269-383-8761 or www.kalamazooexpocenter.com February 2 Breakfast Optimist Club of Kalamazoo Colonial Kitchen 7617 S. Westnedge Portage.

7:30 am Kevin Dodd, Peace Jam. More info @ dwvanloo@sbcglobal.net or 269-327-8647 February 2 Go Red For Women Luncheon Air Zoo. 10 am – 1:30 pm. Put on a touch of red and please join the American Heart Association for a celebration to help make a difference in women’s lives. Tickets are required for this event. For tickets or sponsorship call Al Shifflett III at 269-806-0425 or al.shifflett@heart.org You may also visit www.swmigoredforwomen.org February 2 Trizelle Indoor Triathlon Training: Orientation Gazelle Sports. 6 pm. Learn more about the Trizelle experience and triathlon training in general! Free. 269-342-5996 ext 107. http://www.gazellesports.com/info/74-multisport-training-programs.html February 2 & 16 Ayurveda Home Remedies Unity of Kalamazoo. 10 am – noon. Ayurveda Home Remedies for Colds, Flus, the Blues...and more winter hardiness formulas and strategies. $50 early or $60 regular. Includes herbal tea samples that we will make. More info: www.RadiantLifeAyurveda.com Rhonda@ RadiantLifeAyurveda.com or 269-345-2991.

February 3 National Wear Red Day National Wear Red Day, the one day a year when red becomes the most fashionable color in West Michigan. The American Heart Association encourages area residents to show their support for the Go Red For Women movement by wearing red that day. www.GoRedForWomen.org or call 1-888-MY-HEART. February 3 “Hearts 'n Arts” Art Hop Various Locations throughout Downtown Kalamazoo. 5 – 9 pm. “Hearts ‘n Arts” Art Hop. Stop by our Reflections gallery featuring hearts in all shapes and glass mediums. Glass demonstrations throughout the night will thrill all, tall or small! Free. 269-552-9802. http://www.wmglass.org February 3 Art Hop Various Locations throughout Downtown Kalamazoo. 5 – 9 pm. Art Hop is a free event that features new art exhibits in a fun, casual atmosphere. Numerous galleries and businesses in the downtown area host a variety of artwork. Free.

269-342-5059. www.kalamazooarts.com

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February 3 KSO – Wicked Divas Miller Auditorium. 8 – 10 pm. It's Broadway hits sung by two Broadway stars of "Wicked." Alli Mauzey (Glinda) and Nicole Parker (Elphaba) sing music from Chicago, Ragtime, Phantom of the Opera, and much more (and Wicked, of course). $15 - $45. 269-349-7759. http://www.kalamazoosymphony.com February 4 Gazelle Sports Walkin' On the Wild Side Sate Land off of Centre St. 10:30 am. Designed to promote overall wellness while getting outside and staying healthy throughout the winter months. These walks take place rain, snow or sunshine. No registration required. 269-3425996 ext 107. http://www.gazellesports.com/info/75-walktraining-programs.html February 4 – 28 Borgess Run Camp Borgess Health & Fitness Center. A 13-week training experience for individuals who are training for the Borgess Run for the Health of It, to be held May 6. We have seven coaches and dozens of team leaders who help runners achieve their goals. Campers are training either for the 5K Run or the Borgess Half Marathon. $75. 269-3451913. http://borgess.runcamp.com February 5 University Symphony Orchestra Miller Auditorium. 3 pm. Bruce Uchimura, Conductor. Sam Ramey, guest baritone soloist. Free.

269-387-4667. http://www.wmich.edu/music February 8 Free "Healthy & Fit U" Presentations Ladies Only Focus On U Fitness, 545 N. Drake, 11:30AM 12:15PM OR 6:30PM - 7:15PM. Learn the truth about "starving" fat and yo-yo diets & how to design your own health & fitness program that will work short term and long term!

Call (269) 532-1075 for details.

February 6 IAAP Meeting Kalamazoo Educational Resource Agency (KRESA), 1819 E. Milham Road, Portage. 5 pm.

The Kalamazoo Chapter of the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) will host speaker Brad Miller, “Accounting for Non-Accountants”. Please bring a dish to share.

Free. Contact Michelle Stickley at 269-553-2086. michelle.stickley.cnuz@statefarm.com February 7 Beginning Genealogy Parchment Community Library. 6 pm. Adam Oster returns with info on starting your family tree. Free. Register at 343-7747 or www.parchmentlibrary.org February 7 & 21 Free Vein Screening Premier Vein Center. If your legs ache or feel heavy, Schedule your FREE painless screening.

We can tell right away if you may have a vein disease. Register at http://www.premierveincenter.com/vein-screening or 269-388-6350.

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February 8 Cooking Without Recipes Class Food Dance. 6 – 8 pm. Yes, that's right. Close those cookbooks, hide those recipes cards and magazine cut outs! Learn to cook without recipes. We will create 4 dishes and taste them all. $60. 269-382-1888. michelle@fooddance.net http://www.fooddance.net February 9 Breakfast Optimist Club of Kalamazoo Colonial Kitchen 7617 S. Westnedge Portage.

7:30 am. Beth Weaver Hagen, Long Term Care.

More info @ dwvanloo@sbcglobal.net or 269-327-8647 February 9 Cut Your Costs with Couponing Class Ransom District Library, 180 S. Sherwood, Plainwell. 7 pm. Learn how to lower your grocery budget by 50%! More info @ 685-8024 or www.ransomlibrary.org February 11 Centering Prayer Retreat Day Transformations Spirituality Center. 9 am – 4 pm. Set aside this day to learn or deepen your understanding and practice of Centering Prayer.

For beginners and experienced practitioners alike. $55 Info @www.transformations center.org info@transformationscenter.org or 269-381-6290 ext. 249 February 11 Valentines Dinner W.K. Kellogg Manor House. 6:30 pm. Treat yourself and someone special to an elegant evening.

Reservations are required. $45 per person.

269-671-2400. conference@kbs.msu.edu http://www.kbs.msu.edu/manorhouse February 11 34th Annual Gold Company Miller Show Miller Auditorium. 5:30 pm. Gold Company and GC II. 269-387-4667. http://www.wmich.edu/music February 12 Valentine's Skate Millennium Park Ice Rink. 6 – 8 pm. A great opportunity for mothers and sons, fathers and daughters and all others to enjoy a skate date at MPIR.Payment due by Friday, February 10 at the Ice Rink. $10 per person. 269-329-4522. http://www.portagemi.gov February 15th Free “Healthy Living Starts At The Grocery Store” Tour 6:30PM–7:15PM, meet in Hardings’ main entrance across from Focus On U Fitness (545 N. Drake). Learn how to read & understand labels plus more from a certified personal trainer. Visit FocusOnUFitness.com and sign up on the Free Tour tab.

February 16 Breakfast Optimist Club of Kalamazoo Colonial Kitchen 7617 S. Westnedge Portage.

7:30 am Kim Klein, Art Works. More info @ dwvanloo@sbcglobal.net or 269-327-8647 February 18 Dad & Daughter Valentine Dance City of Kalamazoo Dept of Parks & Recreation 22nd annual Dad & Daughter Valentine Dance at the Cityscape Event Center. 6:30 9:30 pm.

Dinner catered by Millenium Group included in ticket price. Free carnation to the 1st 100 at dance. No tickets at door. Call 337-8191 for details.

February 19 Corn Fed Girls Concert Ransom District Library, 180 S. Sherwood, Plainwell. Free. More info @ 685-8024 or www.ransomlibrary.org February 20 Women In Networking Meeting Personal Care Center, 8799 Gull Road, Rear Entrance, Richland. 6 - 8 pm. You're Invited!

Networking, beverages & light snack. Cost is $7 (cash please). RSVP: win.richland@yahoo.com

by Thurs. before. More Info: http://win.richland.tripod.com

February 22 Dad/Daughter Valentine Dance Cityscape Event Center. 6:30 – 9:30 pm. The City of Kalamazoo Department of Parks and Recreation will be hosting the “22nd” annual “Dad/Daughter Valentine Dance”. Free carnation to the first 100 people through the door. The attire for the dance is semi-formal. Tickets not available at the door. For tickets: 337-8191. $25 per resident. http://www.kalamazoo city.org/parks&rec February 23 Breakfast Optimist Club of Kalamazoo Colonial Kitchen 7617 S. Westnedge Portage.

7:30 am. Jim Cosby, e-Paint Recycling. More info @ dwvanloo@sbcglobal.net or 269-327-8647.

February 23 Cabin Fever Cocktail Class Food Dance. 6 – 8 pm. Having Cabin Fever, it's time to get out of the house and learn to mix up some warm and fuzzy cocktails. Our secrets revealed! Mingling style event teaching you how to make FD signature cocktails from scratch. $40.

269-382-1888. http://www.fooddance.net

March 1 – 4 Outdoor Ice Skating Millenium Park. Hours vary. This large outdoor refrigerated ice rink features an excellent skating surfce, warming house, restrooms, skate rental, skate sharpening and food concessions. $4 plus rental. 269-329-4522. http://www.portagemi.gov March 1 – 16 Planetarium Laser Light Show Kalamazoo Valley Museum Planetarium. 8:30 pm. Laser light show set to music by the classic rock group Led Zeppelin. $3. 269-373-7990. http://www.kalamazoomuseum.org March 2 Art Hop Various Locations throughout Downtown Kalamazoo. 5 – 9 pm. Art Hop is a free event that features new art exhibits in a fun, casual atmosphere. Numerous galleries and businesses in the downtown area host a variety of artwork. Free.

269-342-5059. www.kalamazooarts.com

March 2 – 3 Women's LifeStyle Expo Kalamazoo County Expo Center. Friday 12 – 6 pm, Saturday 9 am – 5 pm. Two day extravaganza event created for women by women! Fun, educational and entertaining! $5 adults, Children 12 and up $2.

269-488-9780. http://www.womenslifestylekazooexpo.com

March 2 – 18 Smokey Joe's Cafe Civic Auditorium. Call for times. The Auditorium is gonna’ “Shake Rattle and Roll” as we celebrate the golden age of rock and roll with the longest running musical revue in Broadway history. $12 - $23. 269-343-1313. http://www.kazoocivic.com

February 23 Mascot Madness Night Millennium Park Ice Rink. 7 – 9 pm. This event will feature many community mascots in zany, on-ice fun and games. Activities will include giveaways and two hours of great fun. No pre-registration required. $5. 269-329-4522. http://www.portagemi.gov February 23 Blast!

Miller Auditorium. 7:30 pm. BLAST! stands, blows, pounds, marches and whirls with panache. It sent a full house into repeated bursts of cheering and applause. $20 - $40.

269-387-2300. http://www.millerauditorium.com February 24 Grape Expectations Radisson Plaza Hotel. 7 – 10 pm $60; Afterparty, 10 pm-2am $15. Grape Expectations: Good wine. Good food. Good cause. Great party in support of Volunteer Kalamazoo. Tickets online www.volunteerkalamazoo.org or by phone 269-382-8350.

February 24 – 25 Great Scrapbook Events 2nd Winter Wonderland Weekend Kalamazoo County Expo Center. Friday 10 am – 6 pm, Saturday 10 am – 4 pm. Scrapbooking and stamping show. Shop a large selection of papercrafting products. Admission: $5 for a weekend pass. For more information call 810-287-7711 or info@greatscrapbookevents.com www.greatscrapbookevents.com February 25 16th Annual Garage Sale Art Fair Kalamazoo County Expo Center. 9:30 am – 4 pm.

An art fair with garage sale bargains! Admission: Adults $4, free for children. For more information e-mail bonnie@garagesaleartfair.com or visit www.garagesaleartfair.com February 28 Spiritual Literacy – “Field of Compassion” Transformations Spirituality Center. 7 – 8:30pm.

Group discussion of “Field of Compassion”.

Judy Cannato examines the intricate connectedness of the physical and spiritual worlds, and the resonance between the Universe Story and the Christian Story. $30. Info @ www.transformationscenter.org or info@transformationscenter.org or 269-381-6290 ext. 249 February 28 HABI HOUR Bell’s Brewery Inc., Kalamazoo, MI. 5:01 pm 8:30 pm. $30. Must be 21 or older to participate.

An Official Kalamazoo Valley Habitat for Humanity® Event Here’s what’s on tap: HABI-tizers, LIVE entertainment, silent auction selections from local businesses, live auction packages and a commemorative beer stein. Tickets : www.habitatkalamazoo.org For silent auction donations: amy@promotionconcepts.com or 269-372-9000 ext. 13.

February 2012

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Reader’s Lounge

By Alexandra Fix

Mangia Mangia Season to Taste, How I Lost my Sense of Smell and Found my Way

By Molly Birnbaum Ecco Books, 2011, $24.99 Twenty-two and passionate about all things food, Molly Birnbaum is on her way to a career as a professional chef. Her life feels like one big “prep,” with all the hours of devouring cookbooks, experimenting with recipes and preparing and serving food to family and friends. Just weeks before her entry into the Culinary Institute of America though, Birnbaum is hit by a car while running in a neighborhood in Boston. The impact of her body against the car’s windshield causes multiple injuries to her pelvis and knee. A skull injury destroys her sense of smell. Losing the ability to smell, she also loses the ability to taste…a crushing blow to an aspiring chef. How can she create in the kitchen without the ability to season to taste? Plunged into depression in spite of her physical healing, Birnbaum works her way out with a quest to regain her sense of smell. With dramatic research, including a perfume school in France and a flavor lab in New Jersey, Birnbaum discovers much about the sense of smell in general and her lack of that sense in particular. This memoir is filled with fascinating details about the science of olfaction and pheromones, but more than that, it’s filled with Birnbaum’s determination to recapture her ability to smell and her possibilities as a chef of the future. There’s a bit of romance, several sneak peeks at restaurants, tantalizing food descriptions and a popular food blog she named “My Madeleine.”

State of Wonder

By Ann Patchett HarperCollins, 2011, $26.99 State of Wonder takes readers deep into the heart of the jungles of Brazil and into a mystery created out of modern medical research. Dr. Annick Swenson has isolated herself for 12 years in the wild there, claiming to be close to creation of a fertility drug that will make millions for Vogel Pharmaceuticals, her employer back in Minnesota. Swenson has been relentlessly seeking the secret behind her discovery that the women of the Brazilian Lakashi tribe are able to get pregnant and bear children well into their 70s. Passionately driven and uncompromisingly eccentric, Swenson insists she has no time to pause her research and honor her employer’s need for communication and update for the board of directors and stockholders. Dr. Marina Singh, another research scientist with the company, is sent to Brazil to find Swenson and get some answers. Her quest is not undertaken without great reservation. Singh’s lab partner, Dr. Anders Eckman, never returned to his home and family from a trip to that testing and research site 6 months ago. Singh has also clashed with Swenson in the past, with life and careerchanging results. The journey along the insectinfected land of the Amazon River is complete with devouring snakes, poison arrows, and a tribe of cannibals. The source of the fertility secret unfolds as something both plausible and fantastic. There will no doubt be conversation connected to this novel, concerning the ethics of drug research, experimentation and the exploitation of primitive cultures. The very consideration of pregnancy continuing long into the life of a woman brings up issues of health and welfare of mother, child and family.

Mangia Mangia (Eat! Eat!) is a full service Italian restaurant located in the heart of downtown Kalamazoo at 209 S. Kalamazoo Mall. The menu features many of their traditional family recipes, such as Nonna Rosa’s spaghetti sauce, which has been in the family since 1936. Their services also include a wine bar and catering. Traditional Italian Family Style dinner is available on Sundays from 4-9PM. For more info please contact them at: 269-226-3333 or visit their website at: www.mangiamangia-kazoo.com

Eco-Friendly Contracting Eco-Friendly Contracting, LLC is a husband and wife team with over 38 years of experience in service, repairs and installation of heating and air conditioning systems. As Master Plumbers they offer various levels of plumbing services from leaking faucets to re-piping water lines or new construction of home or commercial buildings. They are experienced with PV solar energy, designing barrier free bath and kitchen solutions and they hold licenses in multiple states. Contact them at: 269-598-1101 or www.ecofriendlycontracting.com

Mediation Services Mediations Services of Southwest Michigan is a full service mediation firm located in Kalamazoo.

Jeff Murphy, Attorney, can help to settle divorce and business disputes without the expensive process of going to court. Mediation is faster, less expensive, private and confidential, and allows the parties to determine their future while preserving relationships. They provide services in the counties of: Allegan, Barry Berrien, Branch, Cass, Calhoun, Kalamazoo, Kent, St. Joseph, and Van Buren. Contact info: 269-375-3200 and www.jeffmurphymediator.com

Alexandra Fix is the author of ten non-fiction children’s book, including the series Reduce, Reuse, Recycle (Heinemann Library).

Over the years, she has truly enjoyed being a children’s librarian, registered nurse, freelance writer, mother and grandmother.

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February 2012

www.womenslifestylekazoo.com