Matters of the Heart - February 2014 by Moxie Magazine

February 2014

Greater Kalamazoo

FREE Recipes from the Heart

Eleanor Harris Heart Attack Survivor

Matters

of the heart

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

2014 Bridal Section

February 2014 Table of Contents

BRIDAL GUIDE Wedding Registry 101 . . ......... 21 What’s Your Ring Type....... 22 New Times, New Traditions, Modern Trends..................... 23 To PreNup, or Not to PreNup.. ......... 24 Nine Expert Tips............... 26

LIFE Aging In Place.......................................................29 To Love, To Lose . . .................................................36 STYLE What’s Your Purse-onality?.......................................30 Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing.............................. 31 BEAUTY Beauty Benefits of Roses . . .......................................... 6

FOOD & DRINK Recipes from the Heart Salmon Patties with Sour Cream and Dijon Topping.. ........................................... 16 Creamy Corn Chowder.. ................................... 16 Berry-Topped Pudding Pie in Meringue-Nut Crust..................................... 17 Heart Healthy Favorites Open Faced Turkey Burger with Sauteed Vegetables.....................................32 Oat and Banana Cakes.....................................34

HEALTH Take Yoga to Heart.. .......... 4 Top 5 Cardio Workouts..... 9 Go Red for Women. . ......... 11 LEARN Healing from the Heart......35 BUSINESS & FINANCE Ad Goddess. . .................. 8

The People Who Make It Happen... Publisher: Darlene Clifford dclifford@womenslifestylekazoo.com Editor: Erica Shier editor@womenslifestylekazoo.com Contributing Writers: Kelly Duggan, Emily L. Magyar & Heidi McCrary Sales Manager: Ruth Ann Dibert radibert@womenslifestylekazoo.com Account Executive: Brenda Murphy bmurphy@womenslifestylekazoo.com Account Executive: Pam Stowell pstowell@womenslifestylekazoo.com

Layout & Design: jr4designs, JR Harper Photography: K. Redmond Photography www.facebook.com/kredmondphotography Office Manager: Patty Clifford Contact Us: 269-350-5227 Sales Info: 269-271-1032 By Mail: Greater Kalamazoo Women’s LifeStyle, P. O. Box 2284, Portage, MI 49081-2284 By Email: info@womenslifestylekazoo.com Website: www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

COMMUNITY NEWS & HAPPENINGS Calendar. . .............................................................40 Reader’s Lounge. . ...................................................42

Blood donors make a lifesaving difference. Blood Drive: Feb 28 & March 1 At the:

February 2014

Take

Yoga Heart to

hen we talk about caring for the heart, probably the first thing that pops into our minds is diet and exercise, but there is more than just diet and traditional exercises when it comes to making an impact on heart health. We rarely hear or read about Yoga and its effect on the heart, yet several studies have proven its positive impact on heart health. Yoga is an ancient Hindu practice primarily meant to attain spiritual well-being and enlightenment. The word Yoga stands for “union,” reflecting its purpose to create harmony between the mind, body, and spirit. Nowadays, yoga is also viewed as non-traditional exercise or even as an alternative medicine. It comes in different forms and involves gentle to rigorous activities, and such activities can help achieve physical, mental and emotional fitness. The different types of yoga generally offer many health benefits in varying degrees and efficiency. As previously mentioned, studies have shown that yoga plays an important role in the prevention of cardiovascular disease and management of existing conditions, particularly Hatha Yoga or gentle forms of yoga. Hatha Yoga encompasses a set of physical postures (asanas), breathing exercises and meditation. Perhaps by now, you are wondering how Yoga really affects heart health. Here is how it works: Yoga encourages positive emotions and reduces stress. We usually integrate yoga with meditation which is actually one of its important components. Meditation facilitates relaxation and tranquility. When you do Yoga activities, you release your negative feelings such as anger, loneliness and discontent. Yoga may balance your emotions and release your stress. In that way, your body prevents the build-up of plaque in the arteries which can otherwise be caused by stress, thereby possibly reducing the risk of heart attacks and other cardiovascular problems. It is also known for clearing the mind and improving mental well-being.

February 2014

The word yoga stands for “union,” reflecting its purpose to create harmony between the mind, body and spirit. Yoga lowers blood pressure. As you do breathing exercises and meditation, you experience some sort of serenity and calmness. This allows your body to rest and relax. The slowed breathing rate reduces blood pressure and regulates the heartbeat. More so, it yields a calming effect on the sympathetic nervous system responsible for producing stress hormones. Yoga improves blood flow and exercises the muscles. Since yoga involves different physical postures and activities, it exercises the muscles and enhances blood

circulation. Regular practice of yoga not only tones your muscles and keeps you fit, it can also keep your heart muscles strong. Likewise, improved blood flow controls blood sugar and cholesterol levels, which are risk factors for developing heart illnesses. Yoga also reduces inflammation, boosts recovery from cardiac failure, diminishes irregular heart rhythms, and lowers some of the cardiovascular risk factors. Certainly, yoga has much to offer and it is definitely worth a try. However, if you are obese or if you have existing heart problems or diabetes, always consult your doctor first before starting yoga. Remember, to reap the optimal benefits of yoga on heart health, do this activity in sync with a heart-friendly diet and a consistent exercise routine.

Nutrition and fitness expert Kimberly Olson, CNC, CPT is the creator of FitKim, a nutrition and fitness blog that teaches people how easy it is to be healthy.

www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

From the Editor

Healing From the Heart. More than simply an organ that moves blood throughout the body, the heart embodies something more profound. It speaks to the core of who we are as people. Webster’s dictionary defines the heart as “one’s innermost character, feelings, or inclinations” or “the essential or most vital part of something”. Authors and poets throughout the ages have pondered the heart and its meaning, purpose and value:

“The most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched; they must be felt with the heart”. - Helen Keller “Sometimes the heart sees what is invisible to the eyes”. - H. Jackson Brown Jr. “Your work is to discover your world and then with all your heart give yourself to it.” - Buddha “Above all else, guard your heart for it is the wellspring of life”. - The Bible, Proverbs 4:23 February is, of course, the month most closely associated with the human heart. The original context is that of romantic love. We celebrate Valentine’s Day with hearts, flowers and chocolates. We enjoy candlelit dinners with those most special to us. But February is also the perfect time to think about the heart itself. It’s become a time to focus on how to take care of that beating center of the circulatory system so we can live long, happy and fruitful lives. You will find this edition full of tips for improving heart health (and recognizing when your heart is in need of medical attention), delicious (and healthy) recipes, and advice for planning a perfect wedding. Heather Ratliff helps us to delve deeper with “Healing Your Heart” and we’ll hear the stories of women who have survived heart disease and are thriving. We hope we’ll see you again on these pages in March. Until then, may this month be full of joy for you and filled with the people and things you love most in the world.

Erica Shier

Editor

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Lovers Lane

6016 Lovers Lane • Portage, MI 49002 (Lovers Lane @ Milham Rd.)

Milham

February 2014

The Beauty Benefits of

Roses by Laura Naughton

effects that can surface due to artificial chemicals included in fragrances. In order to avoid exposure to toxic chemicals, search for products or home remedies that utilize organic rose water, rose oils and ingredients. This will ensure the natural beauty benefits without subjecting your body to unwanted chemicals. Explore the list of benefits below to discover how the flower’s inherent properties can bring beauty to your hair and complexion.

Valentine’s Day is near and the romantic holiday’s most treasured flower, the rose, is in full bloom. While the rose has a colorful history as a symbol of love and romance in cultures throughout the world, this passionate flower has also been used in beauty remedies since ancient times. The Greeks and the Romans created rose-infused perfumes for seduction purposes with inspiration from stories of the goddesses of love Aphrodite (Greek) and Venus (Roman). The Romans bathed in water with roses to cleanse, tone and hydrate skin. For centuries, the ancient rose oil and rose water fragrances and remedies were pure and natural, but over the past century, products manufactured with synthetic chemicals have taken over the market. Although many beauty and fragrance products contain trace amounts of natural essences, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) states that the use of synthetic and toxic chemicals as the base ingredients is frequent. Hormone disruption and allergic reactions are side

Designer and owner of LKN Studio, Laura is also a model and connoisseur of natural regimens for everyday health and beauty. Visit www.lknstudio.com to learn more.

February 2014

Beauty Benefits of Roses Scalp and Hair Growth

Control itchy scalp and promote hair growth with a rose water rinse. The flower’s anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties reduce dryness and flaky scalp. It also induces hair growth by promoting circulation to the scalp while nourishing the hair.

Acne

Clear your complexion with organic acne control products or remedies that contain rose water or rose oil. The oil’s natural antibacterial and cleansing properties keep skin looking fresh and blemish free while also balancing the pH levels.

Fine Lines and Wrinkles

Homemade Organic Rose Water Scented Body Spray Ingredients

3 cups of Distilled Water 1/2 cup of Organic Vodka (100 Proof) 1/2 cup of Fresh Organic Rose Petals (Preferably petals that have recently bloomed and are fragrant) 5 four oz. Amber Glass Spray Bottles

Instructions

Remove rose petals from stems and combine petals and vodka in a glass bowl. Allow the mixture to sit one day. With a wooden spoon, mash the rose petals and then add distilled water. Allow mixture to sit for one week, but be sure to mix and mash once a day.

Say “so long” to fine lines and wrinkles thanks to rose water’s anti-inflammatory properties that act as an astringent when applied topically to the face.

After one week, strain the liquid into amber glass spray bottles. Keep the spray refrigerated to maintain freshness.

Fragrance

Mist your body with the spray to bring you back to the moment you received your romantic rose bouquet and cherish the memories.

Enjoy the rich floral scents of roses by trying rose water sprays and perfumes that will leave you smelling like a beautiful English rose garden. This Valentine’s Day, hint to your honey that you would like an organic bouquet of roses. Extend the memories of your romantic moments and your beloved bouquet by making the homemade organic rose water scented body spray below. The invigorating fragrance will be a daily reminder of your loved one with every breath you take.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

*Disclaimer - The information provided throughout this article is intended for information and educational purposes only. The suggestions made in this article are meant solely for the purpose of orienting and supporting readers seeking natural cures. None of the information in this article is a substitute for a diagnosis and treatment by a health professional. Results of the natural treatments may vary from person to person. Adverse reactions to the mentioned remedies are not the responsibility of the writer and/or publisher of this article.

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Four more ways to get a fresh perspective. We’re proud to announce that John Gardiner, Allison Sleight, Peter Kosydar and Stephen Staple have joined Kreis Enderle. Like all of our attorneys, they provide a fresh perspective that makes a difference in the lives of our clients. It’s a way of working that has enabled us to continue expanding all areas of our practice: Corporate & Business Planning, Real Estate and Environmental, Labor and Employment, Municipal, Tax, Banking, Estate & Probate and Family Law.

www.KreisEnderle.com | 1.800.535.4939

Kalamazoo • Grand Rapids • Battle Creek • St. Joseph

John D. Gardiner

Allison E. Sleight

Peter J. Kosydar, III

Stephen J. Staple

John graduated with his B.A. from Kalamazoo College and received his J.D. from St. John’s University. His primary focus is litigation, but his experience with the Bronx District Attorney’s Office and local law firms, qualifies him for a variety of projects. John works primarily out of the firm’s Portage office.

Allison earned her B.A. at Michigan State University, B.A., and her J.D. at Valparaiso University magna cum laude. She specializes in family law including all aspects of divorce: business valuation, property settlement, custody, and support. She works primarily out of the firm’s Grand Rapids office.

Peter graduated with a BBA and Masters of Accountancy from the University of Oklahoma, magna cum laude, and earned his J.D., cum laude, from the University of Notre Dame. His practice focuses on business law, estate planning, and transactional issues. Peter works primarily out of the firm’s Portage office.

Stephen received his B.S. from the Frederik Meijer Honors College at Grand Valley State University, magna cum laude and his J.D. from Michigan State University, summa cum laude. His practice focuses on real estate, estate planning, elder law, and general transactional matters. Stephen works primarily out of the firm’s Battle Creek Office.

KEH 1290 Women's LifeStyle Newspaper.indd 1

1/6/14 February 2014

9:42 AM

Confessions of an Advertising Goddess…

Hanging by Social Media We’ve seen what social media can do on the national level when a company makes a serious blunder. Take for instance, Abercrombie & Fitch CEO, Mike Jeffries’ revelation that his company only makes clothes for “cool kids.” It took only a moment for his marketing strategy to catch fire on social media where a multitude of past-customers let Jeffries know how uncool his company really is – resulting in massive losses in sales and customer loyalty. Good or bad, Facebook and Twitter are too often the catalyst for allowing people to run with one quote or one incident, turning a company into an overnight success…or just as easily, burning a business to the ground. And it doesn’t just happen on the national level. This past year, more than one local business suffered serious backlash from the community and beyond when people near and far adopted a mob mentality and committed the equivalent of a public hanging.

a jury of social media gawkers. Justice says we are all innocent until proven guilty but it is not justice when thousands of people make a snap judgment based on a Facebook post – forgetting that passing on damning statements and stories without knowing the whole story can destroy someone’s livelihood in the process, along with endangering jobs of those who are employed at the business in question. Another Kalamazoo area business owner learned the hard way that some things are best left unsaid as an online conversation between two Facebook “Friends” turned into an ugly online battle – which grew at warp speed, attracting national attention and a call for the boycotting of his business. This business owner was forced to remove himself completely from the social media world as he learned that Facebook may not be the best pulpit for voicing one’s personal views and opinions. A lesser lesson learned here may be to keep your postings professional. The world really doesn’t need to know where you stand on religion, politics and gun control. Posting controversial viewpoints on your personal page doesn’t safeguard you from backlash from a professional standpoint. Keep this in mind…if you wouldn’t feel comfortable announcing it over the sound system at Meijer, you probably shouldn’t post it. These two area businesses are still around today but both are probably still feeling the sting from social media and the power we all have to build and destroy a business based on a post on Facebook. Social media is a wonderful, powerful communication tool but as you’re scrolling down the newsfeed today and come to the story of a person who wronged another…take a moment before hitting the “Share” button. Do you know the whole story? And even still…who are you to cast that stone?

Hanging by Social Media. Many of us watched and cheered as a Kalamazoo area business owner learned first-hand about the power of social media when an incident that took place in her shop was posted onto Facebook by an onlooker…which then took on a life of its own as thousands of people “Liked” and “Shared” the post until the local business owner was left defending her actions against

February 2014

The Advertising Goddess (AKA - Heidi McCrary) is co-owner of Ad Shop, etc. – a boutique advertising agency offering full-service and alá carte marketing services to local businesses. Contact Heidi at heidi@ adshopetc.com and on Facebook at adshopetc.

www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

Show your Heart Some Love: Events Calendar February 2014

Borgess Events Nourish Your One and Only Heart

by Emily Morris

Heart disease claims the life of almost one woman every minute. That’s why Borgess, southwest Michigan’s cardiac leader, takes women’s hearts to heart. As a proud sponsor of Go Red for Women, we encourage you to mark your calendar for a special luncheon. Enjoy lunch, learning from survivors and medical experts, and a silent auction. Radisson Plaza Hotel & Suites, Kalamazoo Friday, February 7, 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Reserve your seat by January 24. Please call (616) 482.1518 or visit www.SWMIgoesRed.org. Bariatric Surgery Seminar

For those considering bariatric surgery. Borgess Medical Center Wednesday, January 8, 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday, January 11, 10 a.m. to Noon Free. Registration required. Call (269) 226.6863 to register or visit bariatrics.borgess.com for more information.

the Top 5 Cardio Workouts

order to help you jumpstart your workout routine and journey to Inlifelong heart health, here are five of the best cardio workouts:

5. Group Sports

Grab a coworker and join a company volleyball team. Becoming part of a group forces you to adhere to practice and game times, ensuring you never skimp on a workout.

4. Running

Make a hobby of it. Use it to unplug and enjoy nature for a solid thirty minutes every couple of days. In the colder months, pick a destination marathon somewhere warm and work up to your goal in the gym until the date arrives.

3. Kickboxing

Stressed out at work or at home? Kickboxing will allow you to channel stress into your workout and teach you to throw a mean punch. An added benefit is the feeling of safety you’ll have when walking outside alone at night.

2. Swimming

Swimming is great for not only your heart, but your joints as well. Whereas running can damage one’s joints over time, swimming protects them. Inconveniently, you’ll need a pool for this activity. Either make friends with someone who has one or join your local gym.

1. Cycling

Cycling is arguably the best cardio workout because of its spectrum of resistance levels. Sustained aerobic activity is the most beneficial form of exercise for your heart, and cycling allows you to reach different heart rates while working out due to the peaks and valleys of the courses.

Type 1 Diabetes Study

Borgess Research Institute is seeking people with Type 1 Diabetes to take part in a study for an evaluation of a faster-acting insulin. Find out if you qualify by calling (269) 226.4910, or learn more by visiting research.borgess.com. For a complete list and further information about what Borgess has to offer, please visit wellness.borgess.com. Want the latest classes, events and health screenings sent directly to your inbox? You can also sign up for the Borgess Bulletin e-newsletter there as well.

Borgess Health & Fitness Center Adult & Pediatric CPR and AED

(ages 12 years and older) This course teaches adult, child and infant CPR, automated external defibrillator (AED), relief of choking and safety. A credentialed AHA Heartsaver course approved by the Michigan Department of Human Services, students will receive a credential card upon completion. Borgess Health & Fitness Center Wednesday, February 12, 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. $40. Registration required. Call (269) 226.8135 or (800) 828.8135 or visit wellness.borgess.com to register. Body Blast

This ever-changing class includes strength, cardio and core training for beginners as well as fitness fanatics. Borgess Health & Fitness Center Thursdays, February 20 -March 27, 5:40 to 6:40 p.m. $40. Registration required. Please call (269) 226.8135 or (800) 828.8135 or visit wellness.borgess.com to register. Borgess Healthy Steps

Much more than mall walking, this coached walking club will get you started and keep you moving. Borgess Healthy Steps is for all ability levels. Ongoing enrollment is accepted throughout the year. Borgess Health & Fitness Center Tuesdays & Thursdays, 8 to 9 a.m. $20 annually. To learn more, call (269) 552.2348. For a complete list and further information about classes at Borgess Health & Fitness Center, visit fitness.borgess.com. A member of Ascension Health®

February 2014

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February 2014

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Promotes Heart Health Natalie McCarty Battle Creek, Michigan Age 28 Heart Attack Survivor

The first thing one notices about Natalie McCarty, 28, is her bright and positive attitude. She has an indomitable spirit, and it’s been with her since birth—right along with her heart defect. It is Natalie’s mother, Cathy McCarty, who begins to tell her daughter’s story: “Natalie was our first child. She hadn’t been home for a week when she went into shock. A friend of ours offered to babysit for an hour so that my husband and I could go out to develop photos, but when we came home, we found our baby pale and listless.” The new parents raced to the emergency department of Lackland AFB Military Hospital who then transported her to Christus Santa Rosa Children’s Hospital in San Antonio, Texas, where they lived at that time.

“There was a long line, but I ran to the front of the line and begged them to look at my baby.” Cathy McCarty tears up as she remembers that day. The memory still pains her. Baby Natalie’s veins were collapsing, preventing blood from reaching her heart, and the emergency staff was having a difficult time inserting an IV. Her heart had to work too hard, causing her body to go into shock. The news wasn’t good. The diagnosis was coarctation of the aorta, a narrowing of the large blood vessel that branches off the heart and delivers oxygen-rich blood throughout the body. The baby would have to undergo surgery. “The doctors explained to us that there was a flap in Natalie’s heart that had been open in the womb and should have closed when she was born, but hadn’t. They took a vein from her leg to replace the aorta leading to her heart. The surgery was a success, but years later, disaster struck again, this time it was her aortic valve. The family was enjoying a softball game in Battle Creek in 2010. They had moved to Michigan after Natalie’s father had honorably discharged from the Air Force. The McCartys’ other daughter was playing, and Natalie and her parents sat in the bleachers. With time to spare between two games, Natalie and her father decided to go home to prepare supper, but before leaving the ballgame, Natalie’s mother asked if they might bring her something to drink. “I had to walk up a hill to buy the drink,” Natalie recalls. On the way back down, Natalie collapsed.

“I’m Erika, “It’a s nbdeeI’n an unbeli acbklesjourney,” Natalie samysaahyeart aettva “We met with Natalie’s cardiologist, Dr. Stephen Peck,” Cathy McCarty says. Dr. urvivor. e a I r fe a lt ft Peck diagnosed her with aortic stenosis. Instead of three leaflets in the heart valve e lo r n s e u ly rg a ft e s tr r my heart attearyc.kHer ong Christian fa that keep blood from flowing back into the heart as it pumps blood through her body, ith and uplifting. . . Natalie now had none. sonugnstisluIcfo uansdMGaon R h ed . I “S wa dis a’s Referred to the Cleveland Clinic, Natalie had surgery to replace her malfunctioning trnotnagller” w o h m e lp h ee nrto aortic valve with a pig valve. At first it seemed to be a success. Two years later, spkirnitoswsta thye liwftaern d.in“Ig however, Natalie grew weaker, not able to pass a simple stress test of a few minutes v o lu n te e s r ig w n it s h o f th on a treadmill. Her body was rejecting the valve. She had another operation to replace a heaertAamttearicckan Heart the valve with human tissue from an organ donation. A s s and toocgia ettihoenlpnow. It’s encoura ing quickly if yougth to be a part ofink thissocmoemth min ungitisy.” wrong.” Try to chat with a family member or close friend on a daily basis—on the Her father Ralph’s quick response saved her life as he performed CPR on Natalie. She was taken to a hospital in Marshall and then transferred to Borgess Medical Center in Kalamazoo.

Try to chat with a family member or close friend on a daily basis—on phone or in person—about your feelings on a variety of topics. A caring, the phone or in person—about your feelings on a variety of topics. A listening ear can help alleviate stressful thoughts. caring, listening ear can help alleviate stressful thoughts.

February 2014

Promotes Heart Health Eleanor Harris Kalamazoo, Michigan Age 69 Heart Attack Survivor

leanor Harris, 69, was anxiously awaiting news at the hospital, where her son was undergoing medical treatment. “I was reading about heart conditions,” Harris says. She had gathered hospital brochures during the first day of her son’s hospitalization, even as she felt some discomfort in her chest. The information she was reading about heart issues sounded alarmingly familiar. “Three months earlier, I was golfing,” Harris recalls. “I noticed some mild chest pain, and I thought—that’s unusual. I had an EKG done, but it revealed nothing out of the ordinary.”

An electrocardiogram, Harris later learned, measures a heart’s electrical activity, but doesn’t always show heart issues in the beginning stages. Sitting in the emergency room and later visiting her son in the hospital, it wasn’t so much chest pain that she felt this time as tightness and discomfort. “And there was a tightness in my throat, too,” she says. “I noticed it just after I had lunch, so I thought it might be indigestion. It never occurred to me that it could be a heart condition.” Her son’s treatment went well. A few days later, Harris and her husband were busily preparing a room for her son to use during his recuperation after his hospital discharge. “I was going up and down stairs, changing the bed sheets, and then the tightness in my chest returned,” says Harris. Her husband encouraged her to rest, but when she went to bed, she awoke a few hours later. “This time it was a pain in my abdomen. I walked around the house, thinking it would go away, but the pain continued to escalate. I remembered I had read that consistent pain in the abdomen was one of the symptoms of a heart attack. I woke my husband and told him to call 911.” Harris was taken to the Borgess Medical Center emergency department, and the very same day her son was discharged, she was admitted. The diagnosis was myocardial infarction, or heart attack. Her cardiologist, Dr. John Gustafson, had quickly taken her into surgery and inserted one stent and another several days later. Harris didn’t think she was a heart attack candidate. Even as she experienced symptoms, she’d dismissed them, especially after her EKG did not reveal heart disease. After her second surgery, Harris underwent 36 sessions of cardiac rehabilitation at Borgess. Harris is feeling better than ever. A retired administrator of the Kalamazoo Psychiatric Hospital, she has learned how to stop multi-tasking and how to take a break now and then.

“I realized that along with my s “I’m , on, “Stress is the worst,” Harris says. “I don’t feel guilty about taking a break anymore. otherEmrieka mbers in my fam It’s imperative to pay attention to your body, especially if you have a family history of a n d I’ m y had a had heart ishseuaert attnack suilrv heart problems.” s . O m Isfe y mothiveor’r.s idlte,losenveelyraalftreela Put on a touch of red and join the American Heart Association to help make a r m y h tivesehaartdapttaasscek . . . difference in women’s lives. The 2014 Southwestern Michigan Go Red For Women unatiyl. M d aw I fo u Luncheon raises money for research and education of heart disease in women. The n y modthGeor R e d . h I w a a had hnet art event includes exhibits, networking and the “Purse-inalities” silent auction. The ll pawlp om itaetinoto event is sponsored nationally by Macy’s, presented locally by Borgess Health, MPI ns,ka n o n w d dthieedweanrn roin ute Research, Bowers Manufacturing Company, PNC, Adams Outdoor, FM 106.5 WVFM, g to th e h o s ig s p n it s WOTV4 Women and Women’s Lifestyle of Greater Kalamazoo. of aal.heM y s art aisttte arckis in remis For tickets or sponsorship opportunities, visit SWMIgoesred.org or call 269.808.2783. n fr o asnio m d to haehlpeart coqndition. Tgheet re uic w definitkelylyifayoguentheinaks something is tic pre disposition.” wrong.” Try to chat with a family member or close friend on a daily basis—on the Take 15 to 20 minutes a day to sit quietly, relax, breathe deeply and phone or in person—about your feelings on a variety of topics. A caring, think of a peaceful situation. During this time, your body and mind can listening ear can help alleviate stressful thoughts. calm down and decompress.

February 2014

www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

Promotes Heart Health Annette Sciberras Detroit, Michigan Age 53 Heart Disease Survivor

ecoming an advocate for women’s heart health may have been destiny for Annette Sciberras. The 53-year-old has dealt with heart issues for herself and with others her entire life. Despite being a cardiac nurse who possesses detailed knowledge about heart disease, Annette let her own heart health get away from her as she got older. Born with a congenital heart defect, Annette had open-heart surgery in 1965 to repair a faulty valve. The procedure was innovative at the time, especially for a 5-year-old. Her parents wanted her to live a normal life, so they educated themselves about heart disease and raised Annette with an active lifestyle.

As an adult, Annette’s interest in health issues inspired her to become a cardiac nurse. Soon she found herself taking care of her patients and her aging parents, who both battled heart disease. Like many caregivers, Annette put her own health aside to focus on her family. She ignored the warning signs that something might be wrong. “In retrospect I know the signs were all there — I see patients with heart disease every day,” Annette says. “But I was juggling my four children, a demanding job and my parents’ declining health and I just ignored the chest pains I was having.” When her mother passed away after a heart attack and a stroke, Annette could no longer be idle about her own health. She collapsed when she saw her mother’s lifeless body in the ICU bed. The diagnosis: broken heart syndrome, a type of cardiomyopathy caused by extreme stress. Ironically, Annette’s mother had been warning her that she needed to focus on her own health again. “My mother spent her last months of life trying to convince me to take better care of myself,” Annette says. “This event was a wake-up call and it made me feel closer to her than ever.” After having a stent inserted and starting recovery from the cardiomyopathy, Annette thought about what she could do to inspire others to lead a heart-healthy life. “I wanted to help people the way my mother had helped me,” she says. “I believe I am alive today because of her ongoing commitment to my health.”

“I’m Annette, I survived broke Annette has become an advocate for women’s heart health because she feels that n-heart syndrom women are less aware of their risks. This fall, she will begin working in underserved e after witnessing the p communities in Detroit to screen people and educate them about the signs and a s s in g of my mother. symptoms of heart disease. Her message to female patients, family and friends: I’m a proud hea Balancing work and family obligations must be a bigger priority. rt disease surviv or a n d cardiac nurse, a “We have to learn to manage stress and all the demands of daily life better,” Annette says. nd I want all “As women, we always worry about others but we must also recognize the importance of our women to know own health.” how vital it is to manage stres s, strive for work/life bala nce and, always put your health FYI: Broken heart syndrome can lead to severe, short-term heart muscle failure. ﬁrst.” Broken heart syndrome is usually treatable. Most people who experience it make a full recovery within weeks, and they’re at low risk for it happening again (although in rare cases in can be fatal).

February 2014

Promotes Heart Health Go Red for Women

Ask the Doctor There’s a lot of talk about inequality between men and women, but one area in particular where women are leading in record numbers: heart disease. It’s the No. 1 killer of women and is more deadly than all forms of cancer. Below are answers to a few common questions that can help you determine what a heart attack feels like and what to do if you are unsure – just in case it does happen to you. 1. Q: If I was having cardiac issues, wouldn’t I know? A: Sixty-four percent of women who die suddenly of coronary heart disease had no previous symptoms. Because these symptoms vary greatly between men and women, they’re often misunderstood. Media has conditioned us to believe that the telltale sign of a heart attack is extreme chest pain. But in reality, women are somewhat more likely to experience shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting and back or jaw pain. Other symptoms women should look out for are dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting, pain in the lower chest or upper abdomen and extreme fatigue. 2. Q: Heart disease doesn’t affect women who are fit, correct? A: Even if you’re a yoga-loving, marathon-running workout fiend, your risk for heart disease isn’t completely eliminated. Factors like cholesterol, eating habits and smoking can counterbalance your other healthy habits. You can be thin and have high cholesterol. The American Heart Association recommends you start getting your cholesterol checked at age 20, or earlier, if your family has a history of heart disease. And while you’re at it, be sure to keep an eye on your blood pressure at your next check-up. 3. Q: Heart disease runs in my family, so won’t I get it? A: Although women with a family history of heart disease are at higher risk, there’s plenty you can do to dramatically reduce it. Simply create an action plan to keep your heart healthy. Because of healthy choices and knowing the signs, more than 627,000 of women have been saved from heart disease, and 330 fewer

February 2014

are dying per day. What’s stopping you from taking action? 4. Q: Is there a relationship between stress and heart disease? A: Studies have shown that when you’re stressed your body releases adrenaline into your blood stream, causing your heart rate and blood pressure to go up temporarily. If you’re constantly under stress, your body doesn’t get the chance to rest because you’re always in high gear, and as a result, your artery walls become damaged. While the link isn’t entirely clear from a scientific standpoint, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to put two and two together: If you’ve been diagnosed with heart disease, your world just got rocked. And even if you haven’t been diagnosed, stress can trigger all of your risk factors. 5. Q: Is diabetes linked to heart disease? A: Type 2 diabetes independently increases the risk of heart disease in pre-menopausal women and those in the first years of menopause, according to a study presented at the American Heart Association High Blood Pressure Research Scientific Sessions 2013. Researchers studied 1,256 Argentine premenopausal and menopausal women with and without type 2 diabetes, ages 19 to 84, who underwent ultrasound imaging to measure plaque in their carotid arteries, the major artery running down the neck. Regardless of their age, family history, smoking history, having high blood pressure or menopausal status, plaque buildup was more common among the 293 women with type 2 diabetes compared with the 963 who didn’t have diabetes.

Alicia Williams, DO,

Cardiologist, Borgess Heart Center for Excellence. She specializes in heart disease prevention and treating cardiac conditions.

Heart Attack Signs in Women 1. Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain in the center of your chest. It lasts more than a few minutes, or goes away and comes back. 2. Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach. 3. Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.

4. Other signs such as breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, vomiting or lightheadedness. 5. The most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or discomfort.

If you have any of these signs, don’t wait more than five minutes before calling for help. Call 9-1-1 and get to a hospital right away.

or 10 years, we have been fighting heart disease individually and together as part of the Go Red For Women movement. We have proudly worn red, shared stories of survival and begun to understand the truth about women’s hearts and how heart disease can be prevented. Creating awareness through Go Red For Women has saved more than 627,000 lives. According to the American Heart Association, heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women and accounts for one-third of our deaths. An estimated 43 million women in the U.S. are affected by heart disease. Women who Go Red are not only gaining awareness of heart disease, but making better choices to prevent it. Join us in celebration of the 10th National Wear Red Day on February 1, 2014. Go Red For Women is asking all women across America to contribute in making America Go Red and saving women’s lives. To learn more, visit GoRedForWomen.org or GoRedCorazon.org. You can also visit the Facebook page or call 1-888-MY-HEART. We believe that Go Red For Women is a powerful way to spread awareness and encourage heart health. We welcome you to meet the Go Red Women on the following pages, refine your diet with inspiration from featured Recipes from the Heart, and take advantage of the tips, facts and stories provided to lead yourself to a heart-healthy lifestyle.

www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

Promotes Heart Health

Go Red For Women courtesy of the American Heart Association

Kate Tillotson, WWMT News Channel 3

For the people who depend on you, please love your heart and make “A Picture and A Promise” a step toward improved heart health. The power of my life is in my hands. I want to have a healthy heart, therefore, today, I make myself a promise to: Know my Numbers Start Walking _____(# of days) per week Schedule a yearly heart check-up with my doctor Quit Smoking Eat lean to be lean Cut down on the salt Tone up as I tune in Control my cholesterol Grab some H2O when on the go Join the Go Red Movement! Celebrate my success… Eat fish Twice a Week Learn to Relax Each Day Tell Three other Women about Go Red Try Yoga Join a Gym Eat Breakfast Every Day Bike, Swim, Run for ___ Minutes a Week

Almaria Miller, Heart Disease Survivor

Dee Velkoff, Comerica Bank

Shelagh Brown, Singer

Sheri Welsh, Welsh & Associates

February 2014

Recipes from the Heart

Salmon Patties with Sour Cream and Dijon Topping Makes four servings: 1 salmon patty and 2 teaspoons topping

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon yellow cornmeal 2 teaspoons canola or corn oil

For the salmon patties 7 ounces canned boneless, skinless pink salmon 1/4 1/4 2 2 1 1 1 1/2

cup plain dry bread crumbs cup grated onion tablespoons yellow cornmeal tablespoons light mayonnaise large egg white tablespoon snipped fresh parsley teaspoon salt-free extra-spicy seasoning blend teaspoon red hot-pepper sauce

For the topping 2 tablespoons fat-free sour cream 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (lowest sodium available) 1/8 teaspoon cayenne

In a medium bowl, flake the salmon. Stir in the remaining salmon patty ingredients. Shape the mixture into 4 patties, each about 1/2 inch thick. In a small bowl, stir together the flour and 1 tablespoon cornmeal. Press the sides and edge of each salmon patty into the mixture (no need to shake off the excess). In a large nonstick skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat, swirling to coat the bottom. Cook the patties for 5 minutes. Turn over. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, or until golden brown. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, stir together the topping ingredients. Spoon the topping over each patty. Nutrients per serving: calories 177, total fat 6.5 g, cholesterol 22 mg, sodium 468 mg, carbohydrates 17 g, fiber 1 g, sugars 2 g, protein 13 g. Dietary exchanges: 1 starch, 1 1/2 lean meat.

These recipes are reprinted with permission from Favorite Family Recipes: 43 Dishes for a Healthy Soul. Copyright ÂŠ 2013 by the American Heart Association.

Creamy Corn Chowder Makes five 1 cup servings ooking spray C 1 tablespoon light tub margarine 1/2 cup chopped onion 1/2 cup diced celery 1 1/4 cups water 1 small baking potato, peeled and cut into 1/2- inch cubes (about 1 cup) 1 14.75-ounce can no-salt-added creamed corn, undrained 1 1/2 cups frozen whole-kernel corn, thawed 1 to 2 teaspoons sugar 1 packet (1 teaspoon) salt-free instant chicken bouillon 1/8 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon pepper (white preferred) 1 cup fat-free half-and-half 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley Lightly spray a medium saucepan with cooking spray. Melt the margarine over medium heat, swirling to coat the bottom. Stir in the onion and celery. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, or until soft but not brown, stirring occasionally. Stir in the water, potato, broth, corns, sugar, bouillon, salt, and pepper. Increase the heat to medium high and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for 20 minutes, or until the potato is just tender, stirring occasionally. Pour the half-and-half into a small bowl. Add the flour, whisking to dissolve. Stir into the soup. Stir in the

February 2014

parsley. Simmer for 15 minutes, or until the soup has thickened, stirring frequently. To further thicken the soup, simmer for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. To thin the soup, stir in 1 or 2 tablespoons fat-free halfand-half or fat-free milk.

Nutrients per serving: calories 193, total fat 1.5 g, cholesterol 0 mg, sodium 142 mg, carbohydrates 43 g, fiber 4 g, sugars 10 g, protein 7 g. Dietary exchanges: 3 starch.

www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

Berry-Topped Pudding Pie in Meringue-Nut Crust Makes eight 1 slice servings Canola or corn oil for pie pan 2 large egg whites 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar 1/8 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup sugar 3/4 cup walnuts or pecans, finely chopped 1 small package fat-free, sugar-free instant lemon or vanilla pudding mix, prepared with 2 cups cold fat-free milk 12 ounces fresh berries or other fruit, sliced if needed 1/2 cup fat-free frozen whipped topping, thawed (optional) Preheat the oven to 300 F. Pour a small amount of oil onto a paper towel and lightly wipe the bottom and side of an 8- or 9-inch pie pan. In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites, vanilla, cream of tartar, and salt on medium speed until foamy. With the mixer still running, gradually add the sugar in a slow steady stream, until stiff peaks

form (the peaks shouldn’t fold over when the beater is lifted). Very gently fold in 1/2 cup of the nuts. Using a flexible spatula or rubber scraper, spread the meringue over the bottom and up the side of the pie pan and onto the lip of the pan, but not over the edge of the pan. Sprinkle the bottom the pan with the remaining nuts. Bake for 50 minutes, or until the meringue is firm and lightly browned. Transfer to a cooling rack and let cool completely, at least 2 hours. Using the package directions, prepare the pudding. Spread over the cooled crust. Arrange the fruit decoratively over the pudding. Top with the whipped topping. Nutrients per serving: calories 169, total fat 6.5 g, cholesterol 1 mg, sodium 223 mg, carbohydrates 25 g, sugar 18 g, fiber 3 g, protein 5 g. Dietary exchanges: 1/2 fruit, 1 other carbohydrate, 1 1/2 fat.

Recipes courtesy of Alton Brown and the American Heart Association’s Face The Fats program.

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February 2014

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Most elderly people prefer to stay in their home or apartment for as long as possible. The best way to make this a reality is to plan ahead of time to make the amenities in your home as safe and accessible as possible. It can be hard to imagine that tasks around the house that were once done with ease can one day pose a challenge. Anticipating the challenge and planning accordingly may allow you to remain in your home for an extended period of time. Often, with some minor modifications, your home can be adapted to help you stay as long as possible, even with some loss of mobility.

Home Modifications

Living at home longer may mean renovating a home to make it more accessible. This can include such things as installing ramps to bypass stairs, building a bedroom on the main floor, placing grab bars in the shower, changing the height of kitchen countertops or making a bathroom safer and more accessible. Before you make home modifications, you should evaluate your current and future needs by going through your home room by room and answering a series of questions to highlight where changes might be made. Several checklists are available to help you conduct this review. The National Resource Center on Supportive Housing and Home Modifications is a good place to start. Go to the center’s website at http://www.homemods.org and click on the link to the “Safety Checklist and Assessment Instrument.”

Getting Help

Keeping a house running smoothly requires a lot of hard work. If you are no longer able to keep up with the demands, you may need to hire someone to do laundry, buy groceries, run errands, clean the house or perform any necessary repairs. Those who are unable to perform Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), such as getting in and out of bed, walking, bathing, dressing, and eating, can often continue to stay at home with outside help. There are a number of services that can be brought in to assist with ADLs and other personal care. You can hire someone, such as a personal care aide or home health aide, to help you out a few hours a day or around the clock. Some health care services can be provided at home by trained professionals, such as occupational therapists, social workers or home health nurses. Check with your insurance or health service to see what kind of coverage is available, although you may have to cover some of these costs out of pocket. If very specific conditions are met, Medicare will help pay for all or a portion of home health care.

Transportation

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Declining health often causes a decline in independence and mobility. Many seniors lose the ability to drive or simply feel uncomfortable behind the wheel at night. Investigate transportation options in your area so you can maintain an active social life, get medical care and shop for necessities. You might find family members willing to take you to the grocery store, friends who will drive you to social events, nearby bus routes, reduced fare taxis or senior transportation services funded by a local not-for-profit. Staying in your home should not mean being cut off from community activities you enjoy. Finding new ways to get around, even after you are no longer driving, may allow you to stay engaged and active. (Family Features)

February 2014

Purse-onality? What’s Your

Leader

I mean business. Your impressive handbag is strong, tough and has prominent hoops, straps, tassels and buckles.

SYMPATHETIC

I care. You are warm-hearted by nature and seek harmony and understanding in your relationships. Your handbags are plush and cushy.

Gucci

Trend Setter Perfectionist

I’m a thinker. Your orderly handbag has perfectly arranged compartments, your wallet is organized and your checkbook is balanced.

I’m sophisticated. You are a fashion guru and can spot a designer label across a runway. You appreciate luxury and exquisite style. Geometric patterns excite you.

Game for Anything

Girls just wanna have fun. Your stylish handbag is vibrant and versatile. Hefty enough to carry three bottles of wine, it can easily do triple duty as as a diaper bag, a chic shopping tote or an overnight bag. You adore vibrant colors and have several bags that reflect your fun loving attitude.

Enthusiast

Let’s Go! You carry an all-purpose leather (or recycled material) bag with an adjustable strap to carry everything you need to get you through the the day, the night, a safari and/or a state of emergency.

February 2014

Independent

I know. You chose not to engage in small talk and avoid social gatherings. Your bag is impossibly flat and everyone wonders why you bother to carry it, as it couldn’t possibly contain anything. Little do they know.

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Ain’t Nothing Like the

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A rule of thumb for any product you purchase, use the Three P’s: Price, Product and Place.

Febru February 15th

Price: If the price is too good to be true, it probably is. Know the usual price range for your intended purchases. Product: Inspect the quality of the product – look at labels, detailing and packaging. Does the country of origin match the country that normally produces the product? If you see any warning signs, the product very well could be fake. Place: Know who is an authorized dealer and where they are located for the product you are planning to purchase and make your purchases from the most legitimate source possible. Additionally, prior to shopping for your designer bag, know the answers to the questions below. What is the usual price? For sale and discount pricing, familiarize yourself with the usual sale price range. Sale prices that are still too good to be true may mean the product is not the real deal. Where is the product usually sold? Authentic branded products are not usually available at flea markets, “purse parties,” in kiosks in malls, in New York’s Chinatown neighborhood or Santee Alley in Los Angeles, or on auction websites. If you purchase branded products in any of these places, the risk of being defrauded is highly likely.

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Is the packaging neat and clean? Examine the packaging closely. Is the shrinkwrap tight around the product or loose and sloppy? If it does not look packaged in a quality way, it may mean the product is not authentic. Are there misspellings in the fine print? If you are about to purchase something from a vending site that is out of the norm for the product or the price is deeply discounted, examine the front and back of the packaging for misspellings. For example, does it say Calvin Kline, instead of Calvin Klein? Does the vendor engage in only cash transactions? If the vendor does not charge sales tax or take credit cards, it signals an illegal transaction. Is it legal? Just because a vendor has a city vending license does not legalize the sale of illegal counterfeited or pirated products. Does it need assembly? If the vendor is asking you to choose the type of famous logo or brand name to place on a product, you should assume the vendor has no legal right to use that logo or brand name.

Facts Counterfeiting logos and brand names is illegal. The sale and distribution of counterfeit product is a crime under federal and many state laws, and is punishable by imprisonment and fines. Roughly three-quarters of the states have state criminal laws against counterfeiting. Those states that do not have such criminal laws may rely on consumer fraud and forgery laws. Each state’s law provides different penalties, which may depend upon the amount of product involved in the case. Profits from counterfeiting support suspect activities. The manufacturers of counterfeit products do not pay taxes, fair wages or benefits to employees. They frequently utilize child labor and have been known to fund crimes with the profits of counterfeiting. When you purchase a counterfeit, you may be purchasing nothing more than a substandard version of the real thing. However, you may also be supporting organized crime, child labor, drug trafficking and other illegal activity. Source: International AntiCounterfit Coalition

February 2014

Heart Healthy Favorites by Jen Foley photography by Two Eagles Marcus

oming from someone who adores stick-to-your-ribs comfort food, I understand that making healthy choices isn’t always easy. We all have our favorite dishes that remind us of home and, let’s be honest, butter tends to be the first ingredient. Over the past decade or so, with health and nutrition becoming such a hot topic, I’ve made the decision to focus on learning about healthier alternatives to my favorite sinful dishes. By switching a handful of ingredients, you can save yourself tons of calories and fat grams without skimping on flavor. I’ve found that not only are some of these alternatives sufficient, but some are also preferable. The following recipes have become some of my go-to favorites when I’m craving something heavy, but really need something light. We only have this one life and this one body; who, if not you, is going to keep it healthy and functioning?

February 2014

Loaded Cheeseburger makeover:

Open Faced Turkey Burger with Sautéed Vegetables 1 pound lean ground turkey (about 90 percent) 2 tablespoons red onion, minced plus 1/2 cup more, sliced thin 1 tablespoon red bell pepper, minced 1 clove garlic, minced 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 1 cup mushrooms, sliced thin 1 cup fresh baby spinach 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbles 4 slices whole wheat bread, toasted olive oil, for searing salt and pepper to taste Preheat your oven to 375 F. In a bowl, combine the turkey, minced onion, pepper, garlic, and Worcestershire. Mix the ingredients with your hands

until just combined, being careful not to over work the meat. Form the mixture into 4 burger patties and pat them out until they’re no more than 1/2 inch thick. In a large skillet, heat a few tablespoons of olive oil over medium high heat. Season the burgers to taste with salt and pepper. Add the burgers and allow them to cook until both sides are golden brown. Transfer the burgers to a lined baking sheet and place them in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through completely. If using a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 165 F. In the same skillet, cook the sliced onion until just softened. Add the mushrooms and allow them to cook until tender and golden brown. Add the spinach at the end, allowing it to wilt. Add salt and pepper to taste. To assemble, place a slice of bread on your plate, top with a burger and some of the sautéed vegetable mixture. Finish with a sprinkling of feta cheese.

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February 2014

Heart Healthy

Favorites

by Jen Foley photography by Two Eagles Marcus

Join Your Friends and Support Kalamazoo Valley Habitat for Humanity Tuesday, February 25 5:01p.m. – 8:30 p.m. $35 per person

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• Super exciting/over the top LIVE AUCTION packages! • A Habi Hour memento

• Live entertainment by The Road Less Traveled!

Buttermilk Pancakes makeover:

• TONS of fabulous SILENT AUCTION selections from LOCAL businesses!

Thank you to our corporate sponsors!

Oat and Banana Cakes 2 2 1 1/4 1 1 1 1/4 1 1 1/2 1

cups steel cut oats tablespoons chia seed cups milk or milk substitute large, ripe banana teaspoon ground cinnamon tablespoon honey teaspoon salt teaspoon vanilla extract teaspoon baking powder large egg coconut or vegetable oil for frying

In a blender, puree all ingredients except the egg and oil until smooth. Add the egg last and puree just until it’s incorporated. On a griddle or pan, heat a few tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the batter into pancake size dollops and allow to cook until just golden. Flip and cook completely on the other side.

This event WILL sell out! Tickets on sale NOW. Order tickets online by visiting www.habitatkalamazoo.org or at 1126 Gull Road, Kalamazoo (269) 344-2443.

Silver Sponsor

Bronze Sponsor

Media Sponsor

Are you interested in supporting Habitat and promoting your business as a Habi Hour 2014 sponsor or donating a LIVE AUCTION package or SILENT AUCTION item? If yes please contact Nancy Kern, KVHH Development Director by phone at (269) 344-2443, ext. 213, or e-mail at nkern@habitatkalamazoo.org.

SUBSCRIBE TODAY! September 2013

alamaz Greater K

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Serve with fresh fruit, fruit preserves, all natural almond or peanut butter, or real maple syrup.

February 2014

www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

Healing from the

When I talk with my wellness clients about heart health, we often discuss eating whole foods and incorporating exercise to help heal our cardiovascular systems. But our hearts are more than mechanical pumps and cardiovascular circuits. They are also our heart center, the location in our bodies where we physically experience love, meaning, fulfillment and joy. What if “heart health” referred to the enhancement of our heart center, in addition to making our mechanical pump more efficient? What would life be like if we honored activities and ideals that brought more love, meaning, fulfillment and joy to our lives? What would life be like if we all lived by the simple mantra: “I am here to love and be loved.”

Love and be loved. Such simple words. Such simple concepts. But so hard to live by. I know in my life, if I don’t care for my heart center with daily meditation and devotionals, I find myself doing just the opposite of loving and being loved. Instead of loving others, I devote energy to keeping score, finding fault, noting differences, building coalitions and proving I’m right. Instead of loving myself, I spend my energy trying to become some imagined version of myself that I think might be more worthy of

love…one who is firmer, doesn’t swear like a sailor or enjoy whisky on Friday nights. Instead of opening my heart to my own worthiness, I close down and become small and mean, feeling sure that others are taking my measure and finding me lacking. Choosing to live ‘small and mean’ is a tragedy because it represents the loss of potential, for ourselves and for the betterment of the world around us. Learning to live with an open heart, to love and be loved, is the work of an entire life. It takes courage and bravery. It takes effort and will. And it yields the very greatest glory that life can offer: the privilege of being exactly who we are and the capacity to experience love, meaning, fulfillment and joy. Here are ways to open your heart center: • Start EVERY SINGLE DAY with some practice that helps you recall, at a primal level, that you are worthy. Try prayer, meditation, gratitude, yoga, dance, spiritual reading, a walk outdoors, mantras, or affirmations. •

Question EVERY THOUGHT that starts a downward spiral. Demand that your brain choose a new thought pattern that opens

your heart to kindness (to yourself and others). Your thoughts may be the only thing you can control on this big ball spinning around in the universe, so make them good ones! •

Associate with people who are doing these same practices.

•

Read, read, read. It cements ideas into reality. Read Marianne Williamson, Brene Brown, Pema Chodron, Michael Singer, Wayne Dyer, Angeles Arrien, and Miguel Ruiz.

Start tomorrow differently. Start tomorrow saying, “I am here to love and be loved.” Then choose the thoughts and actions based on those words that allow you to live from your heart center and experience love, meaning, fulfillment and joy. Heather Ratliff is a Registered Nurse and Health Coach. She owns The Wellness RN in Kalamazoo, Michigan, a business dedicated to supporting individuals on their wellness journey. You can learn more about her at www. TheWellnessRN.com.

Hospice care since 1981

hospice

Women’s Health

is about taking away the fear.

s p e c i a l t y

Find out more at hospiceswmi.org Home Care • Rose Arbor Hospice Residence Grief Support Services

any women experience physical and emotional issues with bladder control, aches and pains, or sexuality after having children or from just growing older.

The Women’s Health Specialty at PT1 is a physical therapy protocol designed to restore confidence in your continence and sexuality. Ask your doctor about your options for addressing these issues, and let PT1 Get You Back In The Game Of Life. Portage | 269.323.4300 • Kalamazoo | 269.375.1400 physicaltherapyone.net

February 2014

To Love, To Lose

by Angie Hultgren

ets can really pull at our heartstrings. We have so much fun, laugh often at their tricks, love them unconditionally, and reap the benefits of their loyalty and companionship. What happens when we lose “a man’s best friend?” Pets to most people are simply animals, but on occasion you end up with that companion that becomes a part of your family. You really have to be a pet person to understand this emotion. For my family, our pets are with us long enough to establish a bond and share life experiences. As a result, we also grieve when that time comes to an end. Our family has struggled recently with losing our two companions, Murphy and Pheobe. These two dogs were not just pets for my husband and I, they were with us when we became “us.” We hit the lottery when we were given the opportunity to adopt through a rescue organization. We provided them a home, love

February 2014

“Dogs enter our life to teach us about love and depart us to teach us about loss.” -E. Jong and companionship for six and a half years. Murphy was rescued as a tiny puppy at just 12 weeks old. Phoebe, much feistier, was a foster that came to us at five years old. After her first day as a “foster,” she became a permanent sidekick. She was easy to love; Murphy was even easier. Sadly for us they were gone too soon. At the time of their passing, Phoebe was 11 and Murphy was six and a half. They were our babies before our baby joined the family. They were never treated as “just dogs.” Even they would be surprised to know that they were canine, given the treatment they received from us as family members. The interesting part of this pet dynamic is how Murphy and Phoebe helped mold my husband and I into the pet people we are today. It was because of their adoption we volunteered at the shelter. It was because of the volunteer program we became a foster home many times over. We were able to truly save the lives of many bully breeds and dogs that may not have found homes any other way. That time of loss was truly full of heartache. Our home became too empty, too clean and much too quiet. I am careful not to blur the lines of human companionship compared to pet companionship. Everyone deals with loss in their life differently. Some people can simply close that chapter of their lives and move on. For us, Murphy and Phoebe were

permanent fixtures in our household. They meant more to us than your average pet. I know this to be true because our beloved Marlowe, who joined our family as of late, is ”just a dog.” She is very loved and very cared for, but she lacks the connection Murphy and Pheobe shared with us. It is almost as if our hearts are protected from the “we might love her too much” scenario that got us in trouble in the first place. They say that time heals all wounds, but even ten months later the loss seems so fresh. E. Jong said it well: “Dogs enter our lives to teach us about love and depart us to teach us about loss.” We are learning to live with the loss, but like any great friend, some connections are just stronger than others. If you are dealing with grief, please visit www. helpguide.org or www.humanesociety.org.

Angie Hultgren spends her days as a Marketing Strategist with the Bengtson Center for Aesthetics & Plastic Surgery. She loves being a Cool Wife, Toddler Chaser, Amateur Writer and Professional Pet Lover.

www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

Wealth Management and Strategic Retirement Planning "Helping my friends and clients achieve their financial goals is my lifelong passion" 5220 Lovers Lane Suite 130 Portage MI 49002 269-553-0805

gdell@harbingerfinancialgroup.com www.harbingerfinancialgroup.com

GOLD SPONSOR OF WOMEN'S LIFESTYLE EXPO

Look For My Booth And Classes: Social Security Maximization & Retirement Income Planning Woman to Woman Financially Wise

Make Your Heart Smile Heart disease is the #1 killer of women… let us help protect you! We offer a simple test to see if you have the bacteria associated with heart disease and other diseases. Call to schedule your appointment today and make your heart smile!

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Delta Dental Premier Provider February 2014

Kalamazoo’s Women’s Lifestyle Magazine is pleased to present the Annual

Fri. Feb. 28, 2014 12:00 to 6:00

Sat. March 1, 2014 9:00 to 4:00

Admission $5.00 at the door

Shopping Fashion Shows Demonstrations Interactive Booths

HEALTH

Blood Drive

HOME

Chiropractic • Massage Heart Health & Cancer Awareness Alternative & Natural Remedies Plastic Surgery

Furniture & Decor Home & Oﬃce Remodeling Kitchen • Bath Backyard • BBQ

BEAUTY

FOOD

Salons & Spas Clothing & Fashion Accessories Jewelry • Purses Colognes • Make-Up Skin, Hair & Nail Care

Tasty Samples Cooking Demonstrations Food & Beverages New Products on Sale

Blood donors make a lifesaving difference.

Gold Sponsors

February 2014

Diamond Sponsors

Pearl Sponsors

www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

! s e t a D e h t e v Sa

GREAT EXPO -TATIONS

Feb. 28 – 12 - 6 pm March 1 – 9 am - 4 pm

HEALTH - FREE SCREENINGS

• FREE - Healthy Heart - checking HDL/LDL cholesterol, blood sugar, triglycerides - Borgess • FREE - Memory screens - Borgess Research Institute • FREE - Screen for sleep apnea - Borgess Sleep Center • FREE - Ask the Medical Staff - Borgess

SHOP!

Jewelry Purses Clothing Furniture Cologne RE! AND LOTS MO

DANCING IN THE AISLES! Zum ba Bohemian Mosaic

BLOOD DRIVE:

Michigan Blood invites guests at the 2014 Women’s Expo to stop by, donate blood and save lives!

FREE EXPO ADMISSION TO ALL BLOOD DONORS!

LEARN:

ON STAGE!

Fashion Shows Cooking Demos Yoga & Fitness Home Design

Painting Scrapbooking Floral Design Dog Grooming Repurposing

FREE FOOD SAMPLES

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Massag Hair Care es new style….Need a ? here! Find it

Proud GOLD Sponsor Come Visit Us at the Women’s Lifestyle EXPO February 28 -March 1

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269-375-2672 February 2014

It’s easy to get listed in our Events Calendar. Our deadline is the 10th of the month prior to publication. Email us at: calendar@womenslifestylekazoo.com. Please type Calendar in the subject line. February 1 2nd Annual Storytelling Festival: One World, Many Stories Kalamazoo Valley Museum. 10 am – 5 pm. Storytellers, writers, musicians, bookstores, illustrators, and more will be on hand to share the creative wealth of stories in this region. Free. 269-373-7990. www.kalamazoomuseum.org February 1 Valentine Craft Class Bookends, 101 N Riverview Drive. 1 – 3 pm. Learn how to make a pop up card for your special someone! Wine & appetizers included! Pre-paid fee to reserve your spot. $23. 269-998-0988. February 1 - 2 South Haven’s Annual Ice Breaker Festival Downtown South Haven. West Michigan’s predominant and growing winter festival is showcasing dazzling ice sculptures, Chili Cook-off, Pub Slide, outdoor ice skating, curling, horse drawn wagon rides, kid crafts and many more exciting fundraising events for local communities. 269-637-5171. www.southhaven.org February 1 – 28 Led Zeppelin Laser Show Kalamazoo Valley Planetarium. 8 – 9:30 pm. Experience many of Led Zeppelin’s classics in 5.1 surround sound set to immersive and surrealistic computer generated effects. $3. 269-373-7990. February 4 - 26 Kalamazoo Indoor Flea & Farmers Market Kalamazoo County Expo Center. Tues & Wed 8 am – 2 pm. Come check out the market for some great deals and great merchandise! Choose from new and used items, handcrafted items, fresh and local foods, and much more! Free. 269-3838761. www.kalamazooexpocenter.com February 6 Art Gallery Reception Willow Lake Gallery at Parkview Hills, 3707 Greenleaf Circle. 6 – 8 pm. Reception for Conceptual Paintings by Brendan Barnes. Exhibit is open February 1 – 28 from 9 am to 6 pm. Free. 269-372-4444. Caron.merrow@gmail.com February 7 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 February 7 Go Red Luncheon Help fight heart disease -join us at the American Heart Assoc. Luncheon 10:30 1:30 Tickets & info at: 269-08-2783. February 7, 8 & 9 10th Annual Magical Ice Fest presented by Silver Beach Pizza Downtown St. Joseph. A weekend of winter

February 2014

fun in St. Joseph: ice carving, Ice Wars, SnowBiz Scavenger Hunt and more! More info @ 269-985-1111 or email info@stjoetoday.com February 8 Weekend Kalamazoo Indoor Flea & Farmers Market Kalamazoo County Expo Center, Expo South. 8 am – 3 pm. Special Weekend Market! Come check out the market for some great deals and great merchandise! Choose from new and used items, handcrafted items, fresh and local foods, and much more! For booth space call 269-383-8761. www.kalamazooexpocenter.com February 10, 13 Taoist Tai Chi Society USA Open Houses Hillside Center, 614 Romence Road, Suite 240, Portage. Mon. 5:30 - 7:00 pm; Thurs. 10:00 - 11:30 am. Demonstrations and discussion of Taoist Tai Chi® internal arts of health. New classes start the following week. 269-323-1974, www.taoist.org. February 12 Birds & Coffee MSU W.K. Kellogg Biological Station, Kellogg Bird Sanctuary. 9 – 10:30 am. Join an experienced guide for a short, birding hike. Discuss the morning’s sightings over a cup of hot, bird-friendly coffee. Adult program. Regular admission. (269) 6712510. kbs.msu.edu/birdsanctuary February 14 Valentines Dinner MSU W.K. Kellogg Biological Station, W.K. Kellogg Manor House. 6:30 pm. Escape for a romantic meal at the historic Manor House on Gull Lake. The Manor House does not serve alcohol but can provide stemware if you wish to bring an alcoholic beverage. $45/person. Reservations required. (269) 671-2400. kbs.msu.edu/manorhouse February 14 Singing Valentines Quartets from Kalamazoo’s Mall City Harmonizers Barbershop chorus, attired in formal tuxedos, with red rose and Valentines card in hand, will serenade your loved one with two traditional love songs at their home, office, restaurant, seniors’ center…wherever! $45. 269-350-4085. www.barbershopharmony.org

Midori Feb. 1 | 8pm Miller Auditorium

The Remarkable Farkle McBride Feb. 9 | 3pm Chenery Auditorium

Chris Botti Feb. 14 | 8pm Miller Auditorium

Fleisher Performs Ravel Feb. 28 | 8pm Miller Auditorium

February 14 & 15 Laugh Your Way to a Better Marriage! Northeastern Baptist Church. Fri. 7 – 10 pm; Sat. 9 am – 12 pm. Two-day video conference – couples will laugh, learn and be able to make real positive changes to their marriage. $18/person. 369-344-1694. www.nbckz.com/3881. February 14 – 28 The Miracle Worker The Civic Auditorium. Call for times. $20 $24 adult, $18 - $22 Senior/Student, $13 children 12 & under. 269-343-1313. www.kazoocivic.com

Get your tickets NOW! 269-387-2300 or KalamazooSymphony.com *$24 ticekts price is for full price adult zone III tickets. Student & Family Discovery tickets start at $12 & $14 respectively.

www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

February 15 Valentine Party Studio 33 Ltd Ballroom Dance. 7 – 9 pm. Come celebrate in style! Singles and couples welcome. $14 per person. Dress code required. 383-4020. www.studio33ltd.com February 15 A Pint with the Past Gilmore Care Museum. 7 – 10 pm. A perfect date night for Valentine’s weekend, enjoy the museum’s 3rd Annual BeerTasting FUNdraiser featuring Michigan craft beer, live music, hors d’oeuvres & vintage autos. $35 advance, $40 at door. 269-671-5089. February 15 Father/Daughter Valentine Dinner Dance The Kal. Jr. Girls Org. will hosts the 24th Annual Father/Daughter Valentine Dinner Dance at WMU Bernhard Center 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Tickets are sold in advance at www.millerauditorium.com/kjgirls $25 per person. No tickets at door. More info: (269) 344 2330 February 16 A Valentine Affair: Love is (still) in the air! The Union Cabaret & Grill. Concert @ 5:00 pm by The Kalamazoo Male Chorus. Cover charge is $5.00 per person. More info from KMC President Doug Jones @ 231-3306459 or JonesDougA@aol.com.

February 22 18th Annual Garage Sale Art Fair Kalamazoo County Expo Center, Expo Main & North. 9:30 am – 4 pm. An art fair with garage sale bargains! Admission: Adults $5, free for children. For more information e-mail bonnie@garagesaleartfair.com or visit www.garagesaleartfair.com February 22 Disney Live! Mickey’s Music Festival Miller Auditorium. 1 & 4 pm. Mickey Mouse and friends rock the world with the stars from The Little Mermaid, Aladdin and Disney/Pixar’s Toy Story in their new touring show Disney Live! Mickey’s Music Festival. $18 - $45. www.disneylive.com February 25 Focused on the Birds of Kellogg Bird Sanctuary MSU W.K. Kellogg Biological Station. 7 – 8:30 pm. Join professional nature photographer John Fleming for a lecture and discussion. Adult program. $7 adult, $6 seniors/student. Pre-registration appreciated. 269-671-2510. Kbs.msu.edu/birdsanctuary

February 28 – March 1 Women’s LifeStyle Expo Kalamazoo County Expo Center, Main & South. Fri. 12 – 6 pm, Sat 9 am – 4 pm. An annual two day extravaganza created for women by women! Adults $5, Children 12 and up $2, Children under 12 are free. More Info @ 269-498-0846. www.womenslifestylekazooexpo.com

February 28 Island Escape Masterclass Paw Paw Trinity Lutheran Gym. 7 – 9 pm. Zumba Fitness is for everyone! Your 2 hour vacation to the island is ready! Space is limited, must be 13 years of older. Don’t miss out on this one time event! $15 at the door. 269-271-5045. Acc4love@aol.com

March 1 – 15 Chapter Two The New Vic Theatre. 8:30 – 10:30 pm. Comedy by Neil Simon. 269-381-3328. http://thenewvictheatre.org March 2 Home Maple Sugaring Kalamazoo Nature Center. 2 – 3 pm. Learn how to safely tap your maple trees and collect sap. 269-381-1574. www.naturecenter.org

February 23 Battle Creek Bridal Show McCamly Plaza Hotel Ballroom. 11 am – 3 pm. The last show of the Bridal Show season and right after Valentine’s Day. 269660-3230. info@battlecreekbridalshow.com

February 26 Habi-Hour Bell’s Brewery. 5:01 – 8:30 pm. The Kalamazoo Valley Habitat for Humanity is bringing its signature fundraising event back to Bell’s Brewery in Kalamazoo. Join your friends and support KVHH. $35. 269-344-2443 x 213. 1/10/14 12:12 PM nkern@habitatkalamazoo.org

February 20 Change Your Health, Change Your Life! By Dr. Oscar Posada Portage Public Library, Gourdneck and Long Lake Rooms. 6:30 p.m. Info at 269-270-3501. KPLRT2014_WLSMagFeb.pdf

Reading Together 2014

CMY

Meet Tracie McMillan Wednesday, March 5, 7 pm Kalamazoo Central High School Auditorium Open seating. No ticket needed.

Michigan News Agency will sell copies of “The American Way of Eating” at the event.

What’s new with Reading Together this year? Find out at:

readingtogether.us February 2014

Reader’s Lounge Humans of New York by Brandon Stanton What rip-roaring fun! Our hThis collection of 400 photographs alongside quotes and anecdotes was first an Internet sensation when Stanton began blogging. Now a bestseller, it captures the emotion, passion, sadness, joy, hope –in essence— every emotion that all human beings feel. Yes, the photos are of people in New York—and it certainly captures the bounty of personalities in this wellknown city—but it is so much more than that. When I see a photograph of an old woman and her image and corresponding quote bring me to tears and then I turn the page and see two little boys with mischief oozing out of them and I laugh, I feel connected to those humans who I will never meet. There is always comfort in knowing that someone can also feel the way you do. I am already revisiting the book—and find myself lingering on a page--the profoundness of a young girl’s face as she holds two pigeons lovingly on her arm and the creative expression shown in clothes, tattoos, the way certain people carried themselves-- makes me realize we all have special stories to tell.Stanton continues his photography at www.humansofnewyork.com Copyright, 2013. Available as an e-book.

Dog Songs by Mary Oliver A small collection of love poems about dogs that only poet Mary Oliver could write. A Pulitzer Prize- winning author, Oliver is famous for finding the simple acts of nature sublime and profound. In Dog Songs, she captures the powerful relationship between dogs and their companions. From the poem Her Grave : A dog comes to you and lives with you in your own house, but you do not therefore own her, as you do not own the rain, or the trees, or the laws which pertain to them.” The poems are sad, funny and heartwarming. A perfect Valentine gift for someone who cares about and nurtures dogs. Copyright 2013. Available as an e-book.

February 2014

MUSIC LOCAL ARTS &NEWS

“WAIT WAIT… DON’TTELL ME !” Miller Auditorium March 20, 2014 Tickets on sale January 17th WMUK.org

WMUK 102.1FM WMUK.ORG

The Heart: Our Circulatory System by Seymour Simon Here’s a secret I learned as a school librarian— when you need to understand a complex issue go to the upper elementary and middle school racks. Simon is a master at explaining science to children—and adults too if you take the time. His first sentence engages the reader: “Make a fist. This is about the size of your heart…in an average lifetime a heart will beat over 2, 000,000,000 (two thousand million times).” With beautifully colored illustrations Simon explains the purpose and power of the heart. If you really understand how your heart works, if you or someone you love has health issues related to the heart, the knowledge from this book will help you understand more clearly when you meet with a heart specialist. Copyright 1996.

www.womenslifestylekazoo.com

Because Community Matters.

www.buylocalkalamazoo.org

Over $70 of every $100 spent with a locally owned business STAYS LOCAL.

Neighborhood Cleaners Portage • Kalamazoo • Mattawan

PJ's Frame-Up www,PJsFrameUp.com

Ample Pantry www.theamplepantry.com

Great Deals Magazine www.GreatDealsMagazine.com Business Services

www.A1PrintingCopyCenter.com 269-381-0093 Express IT Solutions eitsonline.com ForensicFluids.com (269) 492-7700 www.Rentalex.com (269) 978-9700

Health, Beauty & Wellness AbsoluteHomecare.info (269) 324-8080

NaturalHealthFoodCenter.com (269) 342-9459 www.MastecOnline.com 269-373-6223

Sawall Health Foods sawallhf.com

www.Chocola-Tea.com 7642 S. Westnedge Prtg.

WomensLifeStyleKazoo.com (269) 569-1647

Neighborhood Cleaners Kalamazoo – Portage – Mattawan

SolSpring Massage, Spa & More www.solspring.net

Comensolis.com (269) 345-6755

Retail

www.PJsFrameUp.com 269-323-2170

VitalityWellnessCoaching.com 269-383-0025

MacKenzies Café Bakery www.mackenziesbakery.com

Home Services

Media, Marketing & Technology

TheBetterWorldBuilders.com 269-383-7862 Jaqua Realtors – Audrey DeVault 269-207-3411 Loedeman's Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning loedeman.com

Hospitality Ample Pantry 269-375-8300

Ad Shop, etc. adshopetc.com

Egg Head Deals eggheaddeals.com www.GreatDealsMagazine.com (269) 321-0620 www.WMUK.org 102.1 FM

DouglasAndSon.com (269) 344-2860 Heilman’s Nuts & Confections www.nuts2you.com Kazoo Books kazoobooks.com www.LawtonRidgeWinery.com (269) 372-9463 Lee's Adventure Sports leesadventuresports.com Mercantile-Kitchenware.com Oakwood Plaza • 3017 Oakland Dr

www.siestasilverjewelry.com (269) 548-7300 V & A Bootery vabootery.com Vandenberg Furniture 12000 N US 131 Hwy, Schoolcraft www.Wedels.com (269) 345-1195 Wenke Greenhouses Corner of Sprinkle & Market - Comstock

Nursery, Florist & Garden Center

that’s where

wearing red is more than a fashion statement

Members of the Borgess Heart Institute

Heart disease claims the life of about one woman every minute. That’s why southwest Michigan’s cardiac leader continues to sponsor and support lifesaving heart programs like Go Red for Women. Thanks to this inspiring movement, wearing red not only symbolizes awareness of every woman’s greatest health threat, but also encourages all of us to do more to live longer, heart-healthier lives. Go Red for your one and only heart. Visit go-red.borgess.com to learn more.

A member of Ascension Health®