Sizzle & Splash - July 2012 by Moxie Magazine

July 2012

FREE

Take Me Home

Pool Pointers

THRILL of the Grill

E s s e n t i a l • E n l i g h t e n i n g • E n t e r t a i n i n g w w w . w o m e n s l i f e s t y l e k a z o o . c o m

Jennifer Farrell

First Officer on Boeing 777

The People Who Make It Happen... Publisher: Darlene Clifford dclifford@womenslifestylekazoo.com Editor: Erica Shier editor@womenslifestylekazoo.com Contributing Writers: Sandy Derby Kelly Duggan Emily L. Magyar Heidi McCrary Jeff Murphy Judy Pearson Sales: Sales Manager: Ruth Ann Dibert radibert@womenslifestylekazoo.com

July 2012

Table of Contents LIFE Permission Granted: Free to be you .......................... 20 Your Choice: Digging Up Dirt or Planting a Garden .... 22 STYLE Decorate for the Perfect Summer Party.......................... 6 Spring Style Make Over Finale ................................... 9 Classic Style ........................................................... 12 BUSINESS & FINANCE Advertising Goddess.............................................. 24 Networking with the Kalamazoo Network .................. 28

Sales Representatives: Brenda Murphy

LOOK WHOS TALKING Jen Farrell .......................................................10

Layout & Design: jr4 designs JR Harper

HEALTH Avoid Feeling Sluggish .....................................18 PCOS & Infertility ...........................................23

Photography: K. Redmond Photography www.facebook.com/kredmondphotography Office Manager: Patty Clifford

LEARN Pool Pointers: Pool Safety Tips for Parents ............14 IMHO: All the News That’s Fit to Print – and Then Some! ...............................15 Readers Lounge..............................................30

Contact Us By Phone: 269-350-5227 Sales Info: 269-271-1032 By Mail: Greater Kalamazoo Women’s LifeStyle, P. O. Box 2284, Portage, MI 49081-2284 By Email: info@womenslifestylekazoo.com Website: www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

Coming in August 2012

Art &

Entertainment

FOOD Thrill of the Grill Grilled T-bone with Everglades Rub .................... 16 Cherry Cola Smoked Chili Ribeye ...................... 16 Grilled Corn and Peach Salad with Queso Fresco . 17 Tastes from the Kitchen............................................ 25 Cooking to Pearfection Lavender Poached Pears ................................... 26 COMMUNITY NEW & LIFESTYLE Eating Local ........................................................... 27 Calendar ............................................................... 28 Buy Local .............................................................. 30

July 2012

From the Publisher Ahh….mid-summer! That golden time when it seems like summer will last forever. The Great Lakes have warmed up, the sand toasts your toes and diving into bath temperature water soothes your soul. Later in the day, we’ll grill a great meal on the BBQ and enjoy an excellent glass of bubbly around the campfire. Sizzle & Splash - Get Ready… Get Set… and GO! Because as much as we like to dream otherwise, we all know that summer won’t last forever. I sincerely hope your July is filled with wonderful moments like the ones I’ve described. I hope you try to spend as much time as you can playing like a child! When it comes to living in the moment, there is much we can learn from children! There’s a reason why they spend so much time giggling and playing games. It’s because they are focused on having FUN! Remember what that word means for you and get busy finding your fun! For most women this means that a little pampering is in order, too. Get a massage, or a new hairdo and don’t forget a pedicure! Pink, green or purple toe nails smiling back up at you will put you in the mood for all that enjoyment. Whatever makes summer magical for you…please, just get out there and do it! Have a great 4th of July! Till August!

July 2012

Darlene

www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

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July 2012

Decorate for the Perfect Summer Party by Ashley Cole

Long, lazy days and warm summer nights are what we long for all year. It gives us the opportunity to gather friends and loved ones around our home and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. The taste of a cool, crisp beverage, the smell of food on the grill, the sound of laughter and the feel of walking around barefoot seem to be a good foundation for making memories that last a lifetime. So what is your excuse? Throw together a simple menu, call a few friends and prepare your home for a soiree. Here are a few fresh tips on how to make a great space for summer entertaining.

Incorporate Nature

Use items readily available during the season. Gather rocks, shells and foliage to use as table decoration. Write or rubber stamp the names of your guests on leaves or stones for place cards instead of the standard white paper card stand-by. Fill glass jars with sand or bright limes and lemons for table display.

Try Non-Traditional Centerpieces

There is no need for the expected (and sometimes expensive) store bought flowers in a glass vase. Roam around your lawn and garden for small plotted plants and wildflowers. Plan ahead by planting small vegetation in pots just for this very reason. Group them together in the center of the table, creating varying heights and an interesting collage of different species of plants and flowers. After the party, place the pots back in the garden or give away as parting gifts. Small baskets filled with fresh fruit and vegetables are not only naturally beautiful, but make a great snack as well.

Buy Seasonally Flexible Items

Strings of old-fashioned-style clear bulbs make any event festive. Suspend them above your deck area, hang

July 2012

them on branches of trees or drape from your dining area ceiling or light fixture. The classic look of these strung lights can be kept for winter holidays as well. Purchase classic metal serving trays that add class to an otherwise casual summer gathering, but also come in handy any other time of the year.

Upgrade Materials

Don’t get me wrong, paper napkins and plates serve their purpose. They work with the casual vibe of summer entertaining and make clean-up easy. However, when at all possible make an effort to step up your game in making it feel like a real celebration by utiliz-

ing linens and solid dinnerware. It’s just as easy to pull out cloth napkins and toss them in the wash with everything else as it is to pull out paper towel or napkins and throw it in the trash. Cloth feels and looks much nicer, absorbs better and is eco-friendly. Perhaps breakable bowls and plates aren’t as practical for outdoor parties, so make a point to start gathering inexpensive mixmatched vintage metal dinnerware from antique stores.

Solar Lanterns

Layering lighting to create a festive vibe is what really sets the mood. As the sun sets and the party continues, strings of lights may not be enough for outdoor entertaining. Invest in a number of solar lanterns. No wiring is required. These lights have built-in solar panels that power up re-chargeable batteries. Be sure to put the lanterns in a sunny spot all day to ensure a soft glow through the night. They can be hung on a rope between trees and porch posts or set upon tables and pathways on the ground. Summer only lasts a few precious months, so soak in every moment of nature, friends and simple pleasures. With a little extra effort on party planning you can turn an average gathering into an outstanding memorable experience for everyone. Cheers!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Ashley Cole is a professional interior designer. Her work has been featured on HGTV as well as numerous publications, including Kitchen Trends and Home Magazine. Ashley’s passion is “creating environments that enliven the spirit.” www.ashleycoledesign.com

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July 2012

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KELLYDUGGAN Image Consulting and WLSK Magazine are pleased to present the final chapter in our series of

“Spring Style Update” Make-Over 2012 KDIC Journal – Kelly Duggan Image Consultant As is often the case with our KDIC clients, a stranger-acquaintance soon becomes a friend and Jean was no exception to this rule! What a wonderful experience we had updating her look to a confident style that will work for her in all that she does and for years to come.

April 2012

Jean’s beaming and happy smile at our photo shoot told me she was pleased with her decision to participate in this “Spring Style Update” opportunity. The first thought that this sixty-eight year old mother of five and grandmother of six had considered was to “pass” and let us draw another winner. Nevertheless, her journey began with the luck of the draw at the 2012 Women’s Expo and continued over the next three months, which you may have been following in the May and June 2012 WLMK issues. If not, find these issues or go to www.womenslifestylekazoo.com to see Jean’s complete journey. The Plan Whether designing a great room, a website, or a fantastic look in dress and grooming, core principles to work from include defining what colors, proportion and line, and style personality are best suited to create a final look. Our initial steps were to assess these specific style traits in Jean and lay a foundation to create an authentic personal style. Additionally, to complete the update a list of supporting service needs were made. These included: salon, dental, and garment shopping services. Jean’s Personal Style Traits Jean’s best colors are cool in temperature (undertone), clear to intense in intensity, and light to dark in value. Colors that are warm in undertone or too light in intensity will instantly drain Jean of color and vitality. Her style and grooming is best displayed in a ‘lived in’ natural look. Fabrics are best in natural fibers and styles unstructured, with a creative energy provided through vibrant rich color and animated pattern or texture….creating a relaxed, yet polished creative look. With the learned understanding of these style traits and Jean’s personal needs we were well on our way to updating a great style. Next, we took this learned information of physical and personal characteristic traits and used them to guide us through Jean’s style update. With this information we were best able to define choices in not only wardrobing, but also in color, style, and technique best for make-up, hair, and all finishing needs. Wardrobe needs allowed us to make a few great purchases, add them to existing garments and accessories and create more than sixteen different looks from eight garments! Updating Jean’s make-up routine gave her a simple, but finished look. We spent time helping her learn how to feel comfortable applying eyeliner and mascara – a specific request of hers. With these learned techniques, Jean has mastered the tricks of illusion to balance her body frame – creating more height, the technique to lift and open the appearance of her eye’s, and create a confident total look for all of her dress needs. Jean’s style update included… • A dental consultation was completed early on with Dr. Susan Dennis, and a cosmetic and functional treatment plan was completed. Services included: brightening Jean’s smile - the Sapphire Whitening system was used to lighten teeth, while white composite filling treatment was completed to replace deteriating dental work giving Jean a beautiful smile. Treatment will continue to complete the initial treatment plan. • Eve Salon and Spa serviced Jean in hair and nail needs. Hair included: cut, color, and styling by Emily Snyder. With manicure and pedicure by Kim Dubal. • Image assessments, wardrobe update, personal shopping, make-up technique and photographic make-up by Kelly at KDIC • Wardrobe sponsored by Steinmart and WLSK Magazine and winner’s personal items. • Personal photo journal diary by Katie Redmond, K Redmond Photography Enjoy the results through our pictorial journey…… And let us take this moment to sincerely thank all of our Make-Over Sponsors. We couldn’t have done it without you!

Sponsors:

July 2012

Jennifer F arrel l United Airlines First Officer on Boeing 777

Jennifer Farrell has flying in her blood. The daughter of a naval aviator, Jen flew for the first time when she was in high school. While receiving her BA in Classical Studies from Denison University, she decided to switch gears and become a pilot, training on weekends while waitressing and getting in flight time with her dad during the summers. Jen attended Flight Safety Academy in Vero Beach, Florida, then worked for Chicago Express Airlines for one year and was hired by United Airlines in May 1995. Jen is now a First Officer on a Boeing 777, based at Chicago O’Hare, flying to Brazil, Germany, Beijing, Shanghai, Tokyo Narita and Hawaii. “I am proud of where I am at this point in my life,” Jen said. “I was lucky to be hired at a young age so I have already had a long career—almost 17 years with the same company.”

July 2012

Jen and her husband Larry were married in 1998 and even had their reception at the Kalamazoo Air Zoo. They have two children, Maggie and Aidan, and reside in the Kalamazoo area. Jen is able to commute to O’Hare on weekends, flying Saturday nights and arriving back home by lunch on Tuesday. “The best thing about the job is the time I have at home,” Jen said. “I am gone maybe nine to twelve nights a month. I am proud that I am able to work and still be with my kids as much as I am.” When she isn’t flying, Jen spends most of her time catching up at home and volunteering at her kids’ school, St. Augustine’s School. She is a member of the school board and has volunteered as a room mom for both of her kids. She enjoys playing tennis and is a member of “Learn to Run.” - Emily L. Magyar

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Independent businesses provide meaningful services with a personal touch. It matters to them that you are satisfied and will come back again.

July 2012

Classic Style

“A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous.” ~ Coco Chanel

You may have heard the saying that everything old is new again, but there are some things that just never go out of style. But what is “classic style” and how can you incorporate those special touches into your every day? Jane Lilly Warren, Katie Armour and Fallon Hogerty are the creative forces behind www.MatchbookMag.com, an online magazine that serves as a “guide to a charmed life.” The women of Matchbook delight in a variety of classic styles and icons; from Chanel and Jackie O to contemporary style makers such as John Derian and Jemma Kidd. Here, they share the basics about classic style for home décor as well as for the wardrobe.

What defines classic style? “A classic is something that has stood the test of time and proven to be the best in its class,” said Warren. “It’s of high quality and is meant to last to be passed on through the generations.” Warren says that while you might invest in an H & M shirt that will last a couple of seasons, a Lacoste polo will be around and in style long enough to hand down to your kids. “There’s definitely a timelessness to these things,” said Hogerty, “they have an ability to transcend eras.” Modern takes on vintage designs are cropping up all over the place. From the clothes modeled on fashion runways to the paint colors in your local hardware store, there seems to be a bit of a retro revival going on. Armour isn’t surprised. “The world is changing faster than ever,” she said, “and we have seen such instability over the past few years in a vast array of sectors, that I think people are embracing the classics, in part, out of the stability and comfort that they provide.” The women also noted that as budgets have tightened, people want to shop smarter. This means investing in items that won’t go out of style.

How to incorporate classic style into your life If you’d like to bring some freshly vintage style to your home or wardrobe, the Matchbook mavens have these tips: • Study the classic tastemakers, such as Jackie

July 2012

•

Kennedy Onassis. By studying, one can get an idea of what classic pieces will stand the test of time. When buying that new coat or pair of shoes, think about what is well made and will last through the years — those will invariably be the classics in your wardrobe. When it comes to color, black is always in style and can complement any outfit. Black slacks, ballet flats, cardigan or coat — you can’t go wrong. Short red nails, black mascara — sometimes it’s the simple things that add a classic pep to your step.

To get some classic style on a budget: • • • •

Rummage through flea markets for under-appreciated, timeless gems at a steal. Visit consignment shops for wardrobe bargains. Spruce up what you have — a coat of paint on a piece of furniture can do wonders. A little pizzazz goes a long way. Maybe you can’t afford the yards of lavish fabric you want for curtains or a sofa — but try using some for a throw pillow.

Top 5 classic pieces for your home: 1. 2. 3.

Monogrammed towels Good china (Finish your set with pieces from www.replacements.com or www. chinaandcrystal.com.) Fine art that speaks to you (Some resources for inexpensive art: www.art.com,

4. 5.

www.20x200.com, www.ugallery.com.) Fresh blooms to brighten up any room Unique, over-sized coffee table books (about your favorite artists, vacation destinations, fashion designers, etc.) can take a coffee table from boring to spectacular

Top 10 classic musts for every wardrobe: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.

A crisp, well-fitted white oxford Black cigarette pants A trench coat A cashmere sweater (Land’s End is a great resource for cashmere, both inexpensive and high-quality.) Black ballet flats Little black dress Flattering pair of dark wash denim jeans A black pencil skirt A wrap dress (they’re flattering on nearly every figure) Invest in one trendy piece per season which you can add to your classic wardrobe

Classic jewelry and accessories: 1. Pearl studs (high quality replicas are just as good as the real thing) 2. A pearl necklace 3. Yellow-gold charm bracelet 4. Dark sunglasses 5. A silk square scarf (to tie around your hair or your handbag)

www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

Living a Stylish Life Embracing the spirit of classic style is about more than what you wear or how you decorate your home. The creators of www.MatchbookMag.com say it’s about approaching life with certain joie de vivre that celebrates even the little things that make life a bit more stylish. • Views the world through rose-colored glasses. • Loves to throw dinner parties, but has been known to burn the roast. • Is the first to laugh at her own bad jokes. • Paints her nails bright coral when she’s feeling blue. • Is infinitely curious and always up for a grand adventure. • Could happily live off of red velvet cake. • Has a signature shade of lipstick. • Pens hand-written notes to her grandmother. • Has a skip in her step and a twinkle in her eye.

July 2012

Pool Pointers

Pool Safety Tips for Parents W

hen shopping for a home, parents often marvel at properties that feature a pool in the backyard. Once they see a pool, parents envision their kids having fun in the sun with friends and family.

While days spent poolside with the family are fun, they can also be dangerous, especially for children. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, children ages 1 to 4 have the highest drowning rates, and fatal drowning is the secondleading cause of unintentional injury-related death for children ages 1 to 14 years. It's no wonder then why parents place such a strong emphasis on pool safety. The following are some preventative measures parents can take to reduce their child's risk of an accident in the pool. • Ensure children know how to swim. Teaching kids to swim might sound obvious, but many kids jump into pools before having any formal swimming training. But a child who has received formal swimming lessons has a significantly smaller risk of injury or drowning than one who has not received formal lessons. A 2009 study published in the Archives of Pediatrics and Medicine found that participation in formal swimming lessons can reduce the risk of drowning by 88 percent among children ages 1 to 14 years. Local community centers as well as the YMCA and even the Red Cross likely offer swimming lessons for children,

July 2012

courtesy of Family Features

so parents should take advantage of these highly effective programs.

• Pay constant attention when kids are in the pool. Kids should never be left unattended when in a pool. But accidents happen even when parents are nearby. However, how quickly adults or others respond to a child in danger can have a significant impact on the outcome of an emergency situation. A study in the medical journal Pediatrics determined that the more quickly someone is able to intervene, such as administering CPR, the better the chance of improving the outcome. So parents should respond as quickly as possible whenever they suspect something has gone wrong in the pool. • Don't rely on air-filled or foam toys. Parents should not rely on air-filled flotation devices such as "water wings" as a safety measure. Such devices can deflate, putting kids at risk, especially if parents are under the assumption that the devices are enough to keep kids safe while they man the grill or mow the lawn. Even if kids wearing flotation devices have had swimming lessons, the likelihood kids will panic and forget those lessons if the devices deflate is significant enough that parents should pay constant attention.

• Do not consume alcohol. Adults should never consume alcohol while children are swimming in the pool. Alcohol can negatively affect judgement, balance and coordination, making it more difficult to respond to a pool emergency should one occur. In addition, the effects of alcohol are heightened by exposure to the sun and heat, so consuming alcohol on hot summer days while kids are swimming in the pool could be an unnecessary risk. • Put all toys away after swimming. A pool and its surrounding deck should not have toys lying around, as this only entices children to go into the pool area when Mom and Dad might not be home or watching them. A study from the Consumer Product Safety Commission found that most young children who drowned in pools were last seen in the home and had been out of sight for less than five minutes. Kids can quickly disappear, and it might be too late before parents notice their youngster has jumped into the pool unsupervised. Put all toys away once a swimming session ends, so kids don't feel the urge to go play by the pool unsupervised. A backyard pool is both fun and potentially dangerous. A few safety measures can drastically reduce the risk of drowning or injury, but parents should remain alert and attentive whenever kids are swimming or playing around the pool.

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It pays to bank local. Make the move.

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he couldn’t open the cash register without a food order. When the man ordered onion rings, the clerk said they weren’t available on the breakfast menu. The man, frustrated, walked away. (And I bet he’ll never be a Burger King customer again!)

All the News That’s Fit to Print - And Then Some! It is often said, “All the news these days is bad news”, but I would have to disagree. Some past headlines have made for some pretty entertaining reading. I am happy to share a few with you here. SEATTLE - When a man attempted to siphon gasoline from someone else’s motor home, he got much more than he bargained for. Police arrived at the scene to find an ill man curled up on the street. He had plugged his hose, not into the motor home’s gas tank, but into its sewage tank by mistake. The owner of the vehicle declined to press charges, saying that it was the best laugh he’d ever had. (Yuck!) LOS ANGELES - Bill Helko was thrilled to learn he had picked four of the six winning Lotto numbers, a jackpot of $610,000. He immediately ordered a Porsche, booked a family holiday to Hawaii and had a champagne dinner with his wife and friends at an expensive Hollywood restaurant. When Helko went to pick up his winnings the next day, he found that 9,096 others had also won first prize, reducing his share of the jackpot to $45. (Oops!) ANN ARBOR - A man walked into a Burger King in Ypsilanti at 8:50am, flashed a gun and demanded cash. The clerk turned him down, explaining

NEW YORK - A man has spent more than $60,000 in lawyers’ fees trying to win custody of his dog after his ex-girlfriend took the pooch to California. Craig Dershowitz told the New York Post that he’s gone through his life savings but it’s worth it. Dershowitz considers the dog, Knuckles, his “son.” Not to worry, though. The Post says Dershowitz has started a website to raise money for the custody fight, which raised $85 in the first week. (I love this guy’s child-like hopefulness!) FORT LEE, NEW JERSEY - People caught texting while walking face being fined by local police. The clampdown comes after a rise in the number of jaywalking incidents. In the last month-and-a-half, at least 117 tickets have been issued for jaywalking, an offence which carries a fine of $85. Resident Sue Choe admits she texts and walks, but adds: “When I walk, I still try to look around. I’m not constantly looking down.” (Sorry, did you say something? I was texting.) So what have we learned? I would say these incidents illustrate the need for an increased focus on elementary education. After all, in order of their appearance, had these people better excelled in basic reading, math, social studies, citizenship and physical education skills, they never would have made headlines. At least in my humble opinion! 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. www.courageconcepts.com

July 2012

THRILL of the Grill Grilled T-bone with Everglades Rub

Cherry Cola Smoked Chili Ribeye

4 servings

4 T-bone steaks Dry Rub 1 head roasted garlic (roast garlic in oven until golden brown and soft to mash) 4 tablespoons Everglades seasoning 1 teaspoon coffee, ground 1 teaspoon brown sugar 1/4 teaspoon dry thyme 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon onion powder 1/4 teaspoon chili powder 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper Combine all dry rub ingredients. Set aside.

Build the Right Fire — Use different briquet arrangements depending on what’s going on the grill. •

Thinner pieces of meat respond best to high temperature, directheat grilling, which requires spreading the coals out evenly across the grate.

•

Thicker pieces of meat cook beautifully all the way through, without burning on the outside, with a twozone fire.

•

Stack briquets to one side of the grate for high and low temperature zones. Begin cooking directly over the coals until the outside of the meat has reached the desired doneness; then move the meat to the other side of the grate (the low temperature zone) to finish cooking.

Cocoa Cherry Coca-Cola Marinade 1/4 cup Cherry Coca-Cola 2 tablespoons cocoa powder 1 tablespoon chipotle powder 1 tablespoon kosher salt 1 tablespoon garlic powder 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 teaspoon black pepper Preheat grill using Kingsford charcoal, until briquets are consistently ashed over. Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl with a whisk until blended. Rub each of the steaks liberally with marinade and let stand for 1 hour at room temperature, or chill covered for up to 4 hours. Discard any leftover marinade.

Divide dry rub seasoning for four steaks and thoroughly rub each steak. Place in food storage container in refrigerator for 3 to 4 hours. This can be done up to one day in advance.

Grill steaks for 5 to 7 minutes over medium heat on each side or until an internal temperature of 140°F is reached for medium rare.

Remove steaks from refrigerator and let come to room temperature.

The Key to Great Grilling

4 Premium Ribeye Steaks 1 lime, cut in half

Rub each steak with an equal portion of roasted garlic paste on front and back. To prevent burning, do not get garlic paste on bone.

Preheat grill using Kingsford charcoal, until briquets are consistently ashed over.

Courtesy Family Features, Kingsford and www.Grilling.com.

rilling season is here, and that means it’s time to get fired up for the smoky flavor of your favorite foods cooked in the great outdoors over charcoal.

Grill each lime half for 5 minutes. Let steaks rest covered for a few minutes. Squeeze juice of grilled lime over each steak and serve.

Put steaks on grill; leave in one position on direct heat for 4 to 5 minutes, rotating to get nice grill marks and even flavor profile. Follow this timeline for medium rare.

July 2012

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Avoid Feeling Sluggish During Summer’s Dog Days

courtesy of Metro Creative

ummer’s dog days are known for making people feel sluggish. Long spells of hot and humid weather can make summer feel like an eternity.

Though there’s little people can do about the temperatures outdoors when summer arrives in full swing, there are many ways they can make summer’s dog days less draining. Consider the following tips. • Be careful with caffeine. Caffeine has both its advocates and detractors. However, no one can argue caffeine’s ability to provide a boost when needed. Those who drink caffeinated beverages in moderation can really benefit from the boost it provides. On sluggish summer mornings when the temperatures are already hot and humid at sunrise, a cup of iced coffee can not only provide a boost of energy but some refreshment as well. • When relying on caffeine for that extra pick-me-up during summer’s dog days, it’s important to carefully moderate caffeine consumption. Caffeine consumption in late afternoon or in the evening can actually have the adverse effect many people hope to get from caffeine. Because caffeine provides such a boost, those who drink caffeinated products in late afternoon or in the evening might have difficulty falling asleep at night, zapping their energy the following day as a result. • Caffeine can also be dehydrating, which is not healthy when hot, humid weather already takes its toll on the body. Keep this in mind and don’t overdo caffeine consumption. • Alter eating habits. Perhaps nothing can be more draining on a hot summer day than a big meal. Large meals on sizzling summer days rob people of energy and often lead to feelings of discomfort.

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• But this doesn’t mean people should avoid eating as the summer temperatures heat up. Rather, altering existing eating habits can provide more energy and might even lead to some weight loss. Instead of three meals per day, eat smaller meals more frequently throughout the day. Healthy snacking during the day can help boost metabolism and maintain energy levels regardless of how hot it might be outside. Eat light meals every 3 to 4 hours, and avoid foods that are heavy and lead to feelings of lethargy. • Look for foods high in fiber. Fiber can do a great deal for people looking to get more energy from their daily diets. The benefits of fiber are numerous, but perhaps no benefit is more pronounced than fiber’s ability to flush toxins and wastes from the body. Such toxins and wastes make people feel very sluggish, particularly during summer’s dog days. However, those who include fiber in their daily diets will notice a substantial improvement in their energy levels. • Exercise in the morning. Many people look to exercise as a means to boosting energy during the summer swoon. This is a sound and healthy approach, but those who don’t feel they’re maximizing their workouts might want to consider working out in the mornings instead. Summer’s dog days often make people feel tired by the end of the workday, something that could lead to less effective workouts for those who exercise after work. When working out in the morning, however, the temperatures are lower (even in air conditioned fitness centers temperatures can be noticeably warmer inside if the temperature outside is especially hot) in the gym and the body is better rested and ready to make the most of a workout. In addition, many people who workout in the mornings before work find their energy levels are higher throughout the day as a result.

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July 2012

Permission Granted:

Free to Be You!

Summer comes and our thoughts naturally turn toward the freedoms that are available to us.

With longer days and more hours of sunlight, it feels as if there’s more time to do all of the things we longed to do during the winter: spend more time outdoors, sun, swim, play! Fourth of July celebrations remind us of the many freedoms we enjoy as a nation, as well. But when it comes to our lives as women, some of us may not feel as free as we could. With so much to do each day, so many roles to play, each with a myriad of responsibilities, we don’t often give ourselves permission to do the things I mention above, including spending time alone or with girlfriends or having fun outings without our families in tow. Playing. Simply celebrating ourselves. It’s wise to consider how much personal freedom we do allow ourselves to have. We don’t hesitate giving others permission to enjoy themselves. Oh, take a day off, we say. Sleep in. Indulge yourself. You deserve it! Excellent suggestions, but do we take our own advice? Not very often. As women who are born to nurture, we are notorious for taking much better care of others than we do of ourselves. Yet, key to taking care of one’s self is having the inner freedom to be and enjoy, not to do all of the time. This summer, grant yourself permission to be free. Begin by taking one complete weekend off. No work, no computer, no responsibilities; no laundry, grocery shopping, or errands. Indulge in being you!

reunions, brunches, tea parties, beach parties. Laugh and reminisce together. Let the feminine energy flow and be as girlie as you like.

3. Act like a kid. Play like a child. Swing, swim, blow bubbles. Buy a hula-hoop, swirl and twirl, and remember the days when you felt young and carefree. Eat ice cream without guilt. Lay in the grass and look for four leaf clovers. Languish the day away if you like. All work and no play makes Jill a dull girl. 4. Experiment with fun foods. Eat and grill unusual things. Get outside your food comfort zone and explore. In summer, there are many more fresh foods at our disposal, like eggplant or morels. Make exotic salads with unusual lettuces. Did you know that vidalia onions, peaches, rhubarb, and watermelon can be grilled? Delicious! Let your creative juices flow. 5. Get in the car and drive. Think “Thelma and Louise” and rent a convertible, drive with the top down, wear Jackie O sunglasses, scarves flying. Go without an agenda or map and see where you land. Stop at funky restaurants. Eat local foods. Browse in galleries. Take a winery tour. Wade in roadside streams. Create day trips and select a different town to explore each time. Savor the scenery.

by Janice Lynne Lundy

7. Do something you’ve always wanted to do but didn’t have the courage to, until now: skydive, scuba dive in a local lake, ride high in a hot air balloon. Take flying lessons. Go splunking. Climb a rock wall. The sky is the limit. Harness your fears and allow them to reveal a new you. Who knew you could be so brave? 8. Stay up past your bedtime. Sit outside under a moonlit sky. Look for shooting stars. Lie on the grass and locate constellations. Build a bonfire. Wrap up in a blanket and sip hot tea. Drink wine and make a toast to the stars. Connect with the dramatic night beauty of Mother Nature and give thanks for the blessing of being here. Summer is definitely a time to break routine and do something different. Make hay while the sun or moon shines and have fun doing it. Most of all, give yourself permission to be you, to be your freedomloving self.

6. Take naps. Often! National statistics reveal that over 70% of women say they feel exhausted. Allow yourself to sleep whenever and wherever you need it. In a hammock, in a lawn chair, on a blanket in a park. Let yourself goooooo .... you deserve rest, you really do.

Then fit in these fun things. I’ve got eight you might like to try. If you can’t give yourself permission, I’ll do it for you. Permission granted! Let your freedom ring.

Summer Freedoms: 1. Be outrageous. Paint your nails, wear a big floppy hat and a dazzling sundress. Put flowers in your hair. This is the season of bright colors. Wear them all at once. Don multiple bracelets and big earrings. Mary Kay Ash, founder of Mary Kay Cosmetics, noticed that the bigger the earrings, the more self-confidence one has. So think big! 2. Have girlfriend gaggles. Connect with old friends and lost friends, for friendship is a self-indulgent, but necessary, pleasure. Stage

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Janice Lynne Lundy is an educator, Interfaith Spiritual Director, retreat leader and author of four personal/spiritual growth books for women, including Your Truest Self: Embracing The Woman You Are Meant to Be. Learn more, get inspired, come home to yourself at her website, www.AwakenedLiving.com.

July 2012

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Your Choice:

Digging Up Dirt or Planting A Garden

What does it take to have a problem solving exchange between a wife and her husband? Are we so divided into “Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus” that we keep talking past each other without hearing the other person’s real concerns or issues, and are thus unable to create workable solutions? Somehow it always seems to be about digging up dirt, instead of planting a garden.I see this frequently in mediation where people fail to explain their issues effectively and refuse to listen to the other side’s concerns. In order to help, I developed a technique that can help each party learn to concentrate on the real issues and become more effective speakers and listeners. Let’s start with the understanding that any communication has two parts: the speaker’s statement and the listener’s understanding. Both parts can be the cause of misunderstanding: the speaker conveys insufficient facts and/or the listener mishears the statements. But, if you follow my technique, you may be surprised to find it helps facilitate better discussions. Remember, you’re not in this conversation to crown a winner; you’re here to resolve a problem. Let’s assume the problem is that your husband or ex has caused you difficulties due to his failure to meet his parenting time obligations. Let’s assume, for example, that he doesn’t pick up your son, Chris, for soccer practice. This forces you to leave meetings to get him there or he will miss it entirely and may even be kicked off the team. After this has happened for the fifth time you are understandably pretty angry. Your first inclination is to call him a lazy bum and accuse him of not caring about your son. It will be more effective, however, if you sit down with your spouse/ex and set some rules for having a discussion about resolving the problem. Remember, if you are bringing up an issue, it is yours, not his. It’s not his problem until he accepts it as his. Avoid blaming or using words like “never” and “always”. No name calling or finger pointing. This is the “digging up the dirt” part. Most importantly, when starting the discussion, just state the problem, not your solution. So, how do you have an effective discussion about getting Chris to soccer? First, state the facts clearly: “Chris has soccer at 4PM. The coach says if he isn’t there at 3:45 PM he’ll be kicked off the team. I often have meetings at 2PM and can’t miss them or I’ll be fired.” After establishing the problem and possible consequences, decide whether or not it would be helpful if you let him know how you feel. If you’re uncomfortable expressing your emotion, take a deep breath to calm down. Watch your body language; crossing your arms tightly conveys the message your mind is closed on any meaningful discussion. It is important not to make accusations at this point. Once the facts have been established you can begin discussing options for solving the problems.

July 2012

Now it is your turn to do the listening as he states his side of the issue. Here it is important to remember that listening is more important than speaking. As the listener, you should follow these steps: First, give the speaker your full attention. Be an active listener. Pay attention to the speaker’s whole statement. Don’t interrupt. This may be difficult if what you’ve heard makes you angry, or you’ve heard it all before. Use feedback or questions to double check your understanding. Then, restate for the speaker what you’ve heard in neutral tones, including the concerns expressed, just as it was said to you. The idea is to show you’ve been listening, not just waiting for your turn to talk again. This can be tough to do! Remember, you can listen and understand without agreeing. It’s hard to listen closely to something you don’t accept. But if you interrupt to disagree, you may really miss a point helpful to you. It is your turn to listen so make the most of it. Take notes, if necessary. If you both have followed this technique, you will find you’ve actually listened to, heard and understood each other for the first time in a while. I’ve used this in mediation sessions and it works. It’s amazing how just listening to facts, instead of accusations, can lead to creating workable solutions, instead of fights and divorce lawyers. Plant a new garden – speak, listen and communicate. Work out an agreement. Your kids will be grateful. Jeff Murphy, an attorney and mediator, is a principal in Mediation Services of Southwest Michigan. He brings over 35 years of corporate, civil and domestic relations experience to the table when he is called to mediate a dispute. For more information, please visit www.Jeff MurphyMediator.com

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Pearfection cooking to

or the more than 25 million Americans living with diabetes, food choices are critical to maintaining their health. Chef Sam Talbot, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes when he was 12 years old, understands those challenges. But with his new cookbook he proves that diabetics don’t have to sacrifice flavor in order to follow a healthy eating plan. In his new book, “The Sweet Life: Diabetes without Boundaries,” he shares how diabetes has affected but has not compromised his life and career. He offers 75 fresh, all-natural recipes that can be enjoyed by both diabetics and non-diabetics.

Cooking to Manage Diabetes Doctors recommend that people with diabetes follow a healthy, well balanced diet that includes plenty of fiber-rich fruits and vegetables and carbohydrates that rank lower on the glycemic index (GI). “Pears are one of my favorite fruits to use in recipes,” says Talbot. “They are a low GI fruit, they’re high in fiber, and the flavor of a ripe pear is just out of this world. They are incredibly versatile in sweet and savory recipes in all types of world cuisines. They can be part of any meal of the day.”

Lavender Poached Pears

Makes 4 servings 2 large ripe pears, slightly firm to the touch 3 tablespoons granulated stevia extract, or to taste 1 tablespoon dried lavender 2 blossoms dried hibiscus 1 chamomile tea bag 1/2 cup loosely packed fresh mint leaves Peel, halve and core pears using a melon baller to scoop out seeds. In large pot, combine 3 cups water, sweetener, lavender, hibiscus, chamomile tea and mint. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to mediumlow. Add pears and simmer until you can easily pierce pears with the tip of a knife, about 20 minutes. To serve, transfer pear halves to 4 individual bowls and ladle some of the cooking liquid over the top. Per Serving: 72 calories, 1 g protein, 19 g carbohydrates, 0 g total fat (0 g saturated), 0 mg cholesterol, 4 g fiber, 2 mg sodium Recipes excerpted from the book, “The Sweet Life: Diabetes without Boundaries,” by Sam Talbot. Published by Rodale. Copyright © 2011.

July 2012

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Opportunity for Women’s Education Grants Women looking to return to college now have the opportunity to receive financial help in order to do so through the Women’s Education Coalition. WEC is a cooperative venture of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.; Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.; Kalamazoo Network and the YWCA of Kalamazoo. Its purpose is to provide renewable grant assistance to women who are currently underemployed or unemployed and in need of education to become financially self-sufficient. Women residing in Kalamazoo, Barry, Calhoun, Allegan, St. Joseph or Van Buren Counties who are U.S. Citizens or Permanent Resident Aliens (green card holders) are eligible for WEC grants. Priority will be given to underemployed working mothers and those enrolling or enrolled in not-for-profit educational institutions. Each year, Kalamazoo Network has a Summer Outing to raise funds for WEC. This year’s event is called “Wine, Women and WEC” and will be held at Cody Krestra Vineyard and Winery on July 10, 2012. This event is open to anyone that would like to attend and is a fun evening for women to network with purpose; you don’t have to be a member to attend. Take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to help women within your community that may need this grant. You can visit our website at: http://kalamazoonetwork.org for more information. Please pass the word along to women you may know that are in these circumstances and may need help to better their lives and to better provide for their families. There is nothing more empowering than education. http://www.facebook.com/groups/24635987885/ http://kalamazoonetwork.org/index.php http://www.facebook.com/joan.vansickler http://www.linkedin.com/in/jvansickler Joan VanSickler is serving her 5th year on the Kalamazoo Network Board and is the 2011-2012 President. Communicate by Design with Joan VanSickler, Mixed Media Marketing and Design http://www.facebook.com/groups/24635987885/ http:// kalamazoonetwork.org/index.php

July 2012

July 1 – 31 Gazelle Sports: Dirty Herd Road Running Group Gazelle Sports, 214 S Kalamazoo Mall. 9 am. The Dirty Herd is a collection of individuals who love trail running. Whether you’re a trail running novice or a skilled single track navigator, join us and discover the epic adventure waiting for you in the woods. Free. 269-342-5996. July 1 – 31 Gazelle Sports: Urban Herd Road Running Group Gazelle Sports, 214 S Kalamazoo Mall. 6 pm. A 2 - 6 mile fun, informal run for anyone interested in running. All levels are welcome! Free. 269-342-5996. July 3 Light Up the Lake! Fireworks South Haven Lakefront. Watch a spectacular fireworks display set to the music of SuperHits 103.7! 269-637-5252. July 3 Fireworks Sail Michigan Maritime Museum, 260 Dyckman Ave. South Haven. Watch the annual Light up the Lake fireworks show from the deck of our local tall ship, Friends Goodwill! A unique experience! 800-7473810. July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Douglass Farmers Market Douglass Community Center. 3 – 6 pm. Designed to increase access to local, healthy, affordable and culturally appropriate produce and create an enjoyable, educational, safe community event that brings people together. 269492-1270. http://douglassfarmersmarket. wordpress.com/ July 4 Happy 4th of July! July 6 Art Hop Various Locations throughout Downtown Kalamazoo. 5 – 9 pm. Art Hop is a free event that features new art exhibits in a fun, casual atmosphere. Numerous galleries and businesses in the downtown area host a variety of artwork. Free. 269342-5059. www.kalamazooarts.com July 7 Gull Lake Triathlon Ross Township Park, Gull Lake. 8 – 11:30 am. The event features a 500 yard swim, 10 mile bike, and 5K run. The event also

offers a relay/team division, and duathlon and aqua bike options. 269-978-2437 http://www.gulllaketriathlon.com July 7 Drum Corps International Waldo Stadium at Western Michigan University. 7:30 – 10:30 pm. Drum Corps International (DCI), Marching Music’s Major League, is the leader in producing and promoting competitive events for the world’s most elite and exclusive ensembles for student musicians and performers. $25. 317-275-1212. http://www.dci.org/kalamazoo/ July 8 ‘STAKE’ Picnic! Manitou Arbor Ecovillage. 11 am. We are planning a big event “STAKE PICNIC” out on our beautiful site. We will be staking out the village site - roads, sites, community center, and open spaces. We’ll be having a potluck picnic so bring a dish if you’d like to share a meal 1-800-3540382. mail@manitouarbor.org http://www.manitouarbor.org/index.html July 8 Concerts in the Park – The Susan Harrison Band Bronson Park. 4 pm. Enjoy soulful rock infused with blues and jazz traditions. Free. 269-342-5059. http://www.kalamazooarts.org July 11 Mixer on the Mall North Kalamazoo Mall between Water and East Michigan Ave. 5 – 7:30 pm. Mixer on the Mall is an after-work party that features fantastic, unique, and upand-coming musicians along with great beverages and the opportunity to network and meet new people. $1 entry. 269-3882830. http://discoverkalamazoo.com July 11 – 15 Kindleberger Summer Festival of the Performing Arts Kindleberger Park. Fun, family-friendly events. Family Musical “HONK!”, Youth Play “Charlotte’s Web” and more! 269303-2793. www.kindleberger.org July 12 Tiny Tot Olympics Celery Flats, Portage. 11 am – Noon. Want to watch local little ones involved in some good-natured athletic play? Participants will participate in fun events such as the basketball toss, kid friendly obstacle course, relays and soccer dribble. Free.

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269-329-4522. http://www.portagemi.gov/ Departments/ParksRecreation/ SummerEntertainmentSeries.aspx July 12 Gazelle Sports Historic Walks Bronson Park Churches. Meet at Gazelle Sports 214 S. Kalamazoo Mall. 6:30 – 8 pm. A walking tour looking at the architecture and history of the churches surrounding Bronson Park. Free. 269-3425996. http://www.gazellesports.com/info/75walk-training-programs.html July 13 Junior League of Kalamazoo Informational Event Applegate Neighborhood Clubhouse, 6283 Belgian Ave, Kalamazoo from 7 -10 pm. Social for women interested in the Junior League. 269-352-0078. www.jlkalamazoo.org michele. momotiuk@gmail.com July 13 – 15 Kalamazoo 4 – H Open Horse Show Kalamazoo County Expo Center. Fri. 2 pm, Sat. & Sun. 8:30 am. A fun-filled weekend horse show that is open to the public. Show is held rain or shine. Free. More info: Lisa lzichterman@sbcglobal.net www.msue.msu.edu/kalamazoo July 14 Super Summer Flea Market & Garage Sale Kalamazoo County Expo Center. 7 am – 3 pm. Come check out the market for some great deals and great merchandise! Choose from new and used items, handcrafted items, and much more! For booth space call 269-383-8761. www.kalamazooexpocenter.com July 14 The Miller Energy Criterium At the BTR Park on WMU’s Parkview Campus. 8 am – 4:30 pm. Criterium Bike Races, Kid’s Race Spectators free of charge, Food and Beverage Vendors. Free for spectators. 269-387-2072. Donna. marks@wmich.edu July 15 Parchment Company Reunion Parchment Community Library. 1 – 4 pm. Kalamazoo Vegetable Parchment Company Reunion. Free. More info at 269343-7747. wendy@parchmentlibrary.org July 15 Concerts in the Park Bronson Park. 4 pm. The Greater Kalamazoo Dixieland Society Jazz Band is known for its New Orleans performance style and sound. The band was formed in 1981 by pianist Dale Wells out of his love for early traditional jazz and ragtime. Free. 269-342-5095. http://www.kalamazooarts.org July 16 Women In Networking Meeting Personal Care Center, 8799 Gull Road, Rear Entrance, Richland. 6 - 8 pm. You’re Invited! Networking, two presenters, beverages & snacks. Cost is

$8 (cash please). RSVO: win.richland@ gmail.com by Thurs. before. http://tinyurl.com/win-richland July 19 Lunches of Note Portage District Library. Noon – 1 pm. Smoothies are a great summer treat and can be made with all local ingredients. The FRESH Food Fairy encourages good nutrition by making fresh food fun. To register or for more information, please call 269-329-4542 ext 600. Free. July 19 Ice Cream Social Burch Memorial Park. 5:30 – 8:30 pm. Come enjoy our Friends of the Library annual Ice Cream Social. There will be games, Bounce House, Ice Cream Sundaes or Root Beer Floats. Children are always invited to participate. $5 per person/$20 per family. 269-679-5959. http://www.schoolcraftlibrary.org July 19 Movies in the Park Oshtemo Township Park. Enjoy the park, your family, and a great movie. What to bring? We suggest a blanket or chairs, a flashlight, and bug spray! Popcorn will be available on site. Movie to start promptly at sunset. Free. 269-998-0617. July 20 Willow Lake Gallery Reception Willow Lake Club Gallery, 3707 Greenleaf Circle. Reception, 6-8 p.m., for “Art and Nature” private collection exhibit; June 28-July 30. Daily 9-6, except July 4. Free. 269-372-4444. Caron.merrow@gmail.com July 21 Summer Bazaar Richland Area Community Center. 9 am -4 pm. Free admission and over 50 crafters and vendors. Info at moneys7714@ sbcglobal.net July 21 Piecemakers Quilt Show and Craft Sale Gracespring Bible Church, 8643 Gull Road, Richland. 9 am – 4 pm. View quilts, demos, and shop craft booths inside air conditioned comfort and out of the weather. Free. More info: Cheri (629-4035) or Loraine (685-5182). July 21 Southwest Michigan Bicycle Expo Kalamazoo County Expo Center. 10 am – 4 pm. Come and celebrate the cycling community in Southwest Michigan! Booths featuring biking, health and fitness-related exhibitors. Adults $5. More info: Kyle 269-373-5071. kdlewi@ kalcounty.com www.kalcounty.com/parks/krvt/SWMBE. html July 21 Woofstock Fest Arcadia Creek Festival Place. 10 am – 5 pm. Woofstock Fest is Kalamazoo’s Grooviest pet-friendly event. The event supports the SPCA of Southwest Michigan in an effort to continue its mission of rescuing and rehabilitating homeless pets for responsible adoption. 269-344-1474.

July 22 KVP Company Reunion Lower Kindleberger Park. 1 – 4 pm. The Library will be open for browsing in the Veva Abrahamsen Parchment History Room. Come reminisce with former coworkers and neighbors! Call 343-7747 or www.parchmentlibrary.org July 22 “SHOUT!” a Beatles Tribute The Stage at Kindleberger, Parchment. 6:30 pm. “Fab” music from the early years to the later Beatles, performed with an authenticity that will stir your memories and have everyone singing and dancing along! FREE, bring lawn chair or blanket. www.kindleberger.org July 24 Stroller Stroll Kalamazoo Nature Center. 10 – 11 am. Bring your little one to explore the wonders of nature while we enjoy a leisurely walk along stroller-friendly paths. Meet in the Interpretive Center parking lot by the Sundial. KNC Admission. 269-3811574. www.naturecenter.org July 24 The Kalamazoo MI After 5 Women’s Connection The Beacon Club, 5830 Portage Rd, 6:30 – 8 pm. Dedicated to connecting women through fellowship, fun and inspiring messages. Business women are welcome! $17. RSVP by July 20 to Kay 269-381-1214. www.meetyathen.webs.com. July 26 Safety Day Millennium Park, Portage. 11 am – Noon. Join in for an interactive session with a Portage police officer and fireman, a paramedic and the American Red Cross as they discuss the best ways to stay safe. Safety vehicles will be on hand for you to see and explore. Free. 269-329-4522. July 26 Junior League of Kalamazoo Volunteer Opportunity Pretty Lake Vacation Camp from 7:30 -9pm, dinner at Zeb’s at 5:30pm before. Volunteer opportunity for women interested in the Junior League. 269-352-

0078. michele.momotiuk@gmail.com www.jlkalamazoo.org July 29 33rd Street Band The Stage at Kindleberger, Parchment. 6:30 pm. Enjoy a summer evening in Kindleberger Park enjoying the sounds of big horn, Rock and Roll excitement! Bring lawn chair or blanket, picnics welcome. FREE! www.kindleberger.org. August 1 Mixer on the Mall North Kalamazoo Mall between Water and East Michigan Ave. 5 – 7:30 pm. Mixer on the Mall is an after-work party that features fantastic, unique, and upand-coming musicians along with great beverages and the opportunity to network and meet new people. $1 entry. 269-3882830. http://discoverkalamazoo.com August 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. 269342-5059. www.kalamazooarts.com August 4 Shermanator Triathlon Sherman Lake YMCA, Augusta. 7:45 – 10:30 am. 2012 marks the 10th anniversary for the Shermanator Triathlon. The Shermanator offers a challenging but fast course. The relay/team option is again offered this year along with duathlon and aqua bike divisions. 269-978-2437. www.shermanatortri.org August 4 Virtues Project Workshop Edison Community Center, 1-2 pm and 4-5 pm. Using the language of the virtues to improve communication and empower children to do their best. Free. Contact Beth – 269-245-8155. bethfarnum@ sunbeach.net

July 2012

Reader’s Lounge

by Alexandra Fix

MWF Seeking BFF, My Yearlong Search for a New Best Friend By Rachel Bertsche Ballantine Books, 2011, $15

Up until now, Rachel Bertsche has always had a best friend to call on at the last minute when she just wants to get out and talk with another woman. But now, she’s moved from New York City to Chicago with her thenboyfriend now-husband and she is looking for a local girlfriend outside of work and finding it harder than dating used to be. “Loneliness isn’t being alone, it’s feeling alone.” Rachel starts a blog and challenges herself to set up 52 “girl-dates” over the course of the next year. Meeting for coffee or dinner, going to book club together, taking cooking classes, walking in the park or joining a theater improv group, among a number of other choices, Rachel even tries “speed friending.” As in all relationships, some are total duds and some blossom into something so much more. Interspersed within her experiences is the eyeopening research she so painstakingly accumulates on the whole subject of relationships. Rachel found, “Psychologists say that women have face-to-face friendships, while the male kind are characterized as side-to-side. Women like to engage in conversation, men like to bond over an activity.” Do we talk over lunch or do we sit side by side and watch a baseball or soccer game? When her year of experiment is completed, Rachel not only has insights into the making of friendships, but she’s also made some new connections. She has some new girlfriends, her marriage has been strengthened and she’s added a book contract to her life. Not bad at all for a year’s work.

Stitch By Stitch, Learning to Sew, One Project at a Time By Deborah Moebes Krause Publications, 2010, $19.19 Summer brings with it those extra hours of daylight that could be your time to add a new talent to your life. Stitch by Stitch is the perfect source for someone who wants to sew. I was excited to discover this book on the library shelf. Although I’ve sewn for many years, I learned a few clever things myself and picked up some great ideas on how to pass this craft on to others. Deborah Moebes has so much enthusiasm and encouragement to anyone trying sewing for the first time or returning to sewing, even if they had a bad first experience. This can be a great girlfriend idea. Find a friend who wants to join you in this adventure. Follow the book, wander the fabric aisles together, cut out your patterns over laughter and margaritas and share the satisfying experience of making something from scratch. In this step-by-step guide, Moebes first of all introduces the tools of the trade, from sewing machine to seam ripper (an essential for all sewers). In getting to know your machine, the “stitch sampler” as your first project is excellent. The fabric primer in the book will help you understand suitable material for particular projects and will give you the words to ask questions and to understand the fabric store clerk’s answers. The projects cleverly teach particular skills one at a time. You’ll make cloth napkins and placemats, a reversible tote, a girl’s ruffled skirt, curtains and pillows, among other things, and you’ll even move on to an adult skirt and shirt to complete the informal sewing class. Each handmade item brings you one step closer to greater confidence. I’ve pegged this book as a summer conversation starter. After all, what could be nicer than to chat and sew with a friend? I’ve been part of a small group of friends who have enjoyed sewing, knitting, quilting, cross-stitching and confidences for over 35 years. They have been a stronghold in my life. Who knows where you might find your next new BFF? Try sewing.

ABOUT THE REVIEWER: 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.

July 2012

July 1-8 marks Independents Week, when Buy Local organizations around the country encourage their communities to recognize the value of local, independent business. We encourage you to show your support by patronizing and thanking all of our Local Businesses for the time, talent, goods and services they offer to our community.

The Therapy Place, L.L.C. provides outpatient therapeutic rehabilitation services and limited home rehabilitation services for pediatric through adult patients in the Greater Kalamazoo area. They are a privately owned family business and are committed to treating all of their clients with the utmost dignity and respect. The clinic is located at 626 Maple Hill Drive in Kalamazoo. For more information, call 269-341-9919 or visit www.therapyplace.net.

Sawall Health Foods is a family-owned store featuring over 20,000 square feet of natural and organic foods, including many locally sourced products. They offer a large selection of specialty items, including gluten-free foods, natural cosmetics and vitamins and supplements. Also, Sawall now offers a freshly made To-Go Deli for a quick lunch or dinner. The store is located at 2965 Oakland Dr. in Kalamazoo. For more information, call 269-343-3619 or visit www.sawallhf.com.

Vandenburg Furniture offers a wide variety of designs in home furnishings, ranging from traditional to contemporary. They pride themselves on providing quality, selection and friendly service from an experienced staff in order to help you create the perfect style for your home. Vandenberg Furniture is located at 12000 N. US 131 Hwy in Schoolcraft. For more information, call 269-679-4055 or visit www.vandenbergfurniture.com. www.womenslifestylekazoo.com