Beautiful You - May 2008

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Essential • Enlightening • Entertaining

GREATER KALAMAZOO May 2008

MayWLS_Kalamazoo

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Home Fashion in Full Bloom

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As we all hoped, the birds are back, flowers and trees are blooming and it’s officially spring time in Kalamazoo! It feels like we’ve all just come back to life after a long hibernation. Looking around, it seems everyone is smiling and enjoying the great outdoors once again. Thanks to our readers, we find ourselves smiling a lot too!

We’ve had many great responses from lots of you. You’ve also given us some great input on what you liked and what you’d more of in upcoming editions.

Thank you!

This month is all about “Beautiful You!” from the inside out. Fashion tips and trends to help you feel and look even more beautiful than you already are! My personal favorite has to be Dressing Out Loud: Fashion Essentials.

You had me with the title…I love it!

We also pause a moment to focus on Mother’s Day. To celebrate all the women in our lives who have loved, nurtured and inspired us: Mothers, Grandmothers, Step-Mothers, Mothers In-Law sisters, Friends and more. In my picture this month, you will see the

Greater Kalamazoo

May Contents Beautiful You Mom = Wow ................................................................................................... 7 Dare to Bare: Swimwear Trends .........................................................................8 Dress Out Loud: Fashion Essentials ..................................................................11 Smart & Savvy Hair Care…Naturally ............................................................. 16 The Eyes Have It ..............................................................................................17 Be Good to Your Skin ......................................................................................17

Did you know Mother’s Day kicks of the 9th Annual National Women’s Health Week on May 11th? The event was created to help us honor ourselves and the other wonderful women in our lives, by empowering us towards achieving improved health and well being. Check out the article and make a commitment to the WOMAN Challenge.

Family Life

Finally, a big thank you to Amy Knapp, our feature women of the month for May. Amy’s generous gift of 50 organizers, has enabled us to have our 1st contest. The 1st 50 women to email or write Women’s LifeStyle and tell us what they like best about our magazine will win one of the finest organizers available. Hurry, I’m sure they’ll go fast!

Career Connections: Resumes That Get Results ...............................................23

Essay: The Fabric of a Quilt..............................................................................13 Life Saving Jewelry...........................................................................................18

TABLE OF CONTENTS

From the Publisher

two most important women in my life, although there are many more. While my Granddaughter Rachael is a little young to be called a ‘women’, the way she mother’s her two younger brothers might just get her into the club! She inspires me with her capacity to learn and her ability to grasp concepts way beyond her years. And my daughter, well she had me wrapped around her finger from the moment I first looked into her “baby blues” so many years ago. She still continues to amaze me, as I watch her raise her three wonderful children. She’s an excellent mother, wife, homemaker, “scrapbooker” and so much more. Thank you to both Erica and Racheal for enriching my life beyond words.

Fun Family Gardening Activities.......................................................................19 Hot Stuff .........................................................................................................22 Expand Your Horizons Coffee with Jennifer: Learning to Unlearn........................................................ 4 Make Everyday Mother’s Day: Celebrate Yourself ............................................ 6 Conquer Your Clutter: Energize Your Wardrobe ...............................................12 Calendar of Events...........................................................................................28 Reader’s Lounge ..............................................................................................30 Look Who’s Talking Amy Knapp .....................................................................................................15 Women’s Health National Women’s Health Week.......................................................................20 Exercise: The Benefits Are Skin Deep................................................................21 Should I Get An Epidural?................................................................................27

Have the Best May Ever!

Darlene Clifford

CONTACT US

By Phone: 269-569-1647

By Email: wlskazoo@provide.net

By Mail: Greater Kalamazoo Women’s Lifestyle P.O. Box 228, Portage, MI 49081-2284

Interior Ideas Fashion for the Home Is In Full Bloom .............................................................26 Contest Amy Knapp’s Family Organizer ........................................................................22 A Taste of Something New Soy Delicious Linquini with Roasted Garlic Sauce........................................................... 9 Tofu Fingers ............................................................................................. 9 Apple Cinnamon Pancakes .......................................................................10 Black Bean Salad ......................................................................................10 Lemon Tofu Cheesecake...........................................................................10 A Touch of Pizzazz

WE'D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU Please drop us a line….

Email: wlskazoo@provide.net Subject Line: My Opinion Mail: P.O. Box 2284, Portage, MI 49081-2284

Spanakopita .............................................................................................24 Smoked Chicken in Fillo ...........................................................................24 Passion Fruit Napoleon.............................................................................25 Mother’s Day Brunch Ham and Mushroom Souffles ...................................................................14

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

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Scenario 2: Harboring resentment over the inability to say “no”

Learning to Unlearn oman to woman interaction is truly a dichotomy. We can be the warmest, most giving, encouraging and understanding of friends. We can also be manipulative, competitive, indirect and judgmental. These unhealthy behavior patterns are learned at an early age and can greatly affect the way we communicate with each other. These patterns may stay with us throughout our lives if we don’t become aware and “unlearn” them.

W

Let’s look at a few common examples of poor communication between women and the results it can render:

Scenario 1: Reacting to a non-existent situation Linda and Susan are having lunch with friends. Linda doesn’t make eye contact with Susan or joke and laugh as she usually does. Susan immediately assumes Linda is upset with her and even comments about it later to a mutual friend. Susan starts thinking, “She never did like me much, and she probably doesn’t think I measure up to her. She doesn’t call very often either. I’ll bet she’s even talked to some of our friends about it.

Maybe she’s still holding a grudge about the little disagreement we had a couple of weeks ago. How many times does she want me to apologize anyway?”

Susan has created an entire scenario in her mind.

Maybe Linda wasn’t happy about something that involved Susan. Maybe she was having an “off” day or something happened at home before lunch. The point is Susan never directly approached the problem. She became unsure, defensive and reactive. The next time she talks to Linda she will likely convey, in some way, anger toward her over an overblown situation Susan

created in her own mind. These reactions can be intense. The longer the situation goes unaddressed and the more time there is to think about possible motivations, the worse the reaction will be. Here are a few things Susan could have thought about to redirect her thoughts and “unlearn” previous ways of handling conflict: • Never try to read into a person’s actions. You can’t possibly know the situation unless you ask.

• Be careful not to take ownership of something that may have nothing to do with you. Don’t assume someone is upset with you when they are just generally upset.

• Address the problem. I can’t emphasize this enough.

Susan could have gone to Linda after lunch and said something like, “I didn’t see that terrific sense of humor coming through today. Is everything okay?”

If Linda continued to seem distant, Susan could have said, “Your friendship means a lot to me and I feel like we may need to talk. Can we meet for coffee next week?”

Scenario 3: Venting about negative experiences with others (aka gossip) You are waiting in a restaurant for your good friend with whom you regularly have breakfast. You’ve been friends for years and she often feels free to vent to you about her negative experiences with your mutual friends. You feel caught in the middle and uncomfortable, but you don’t know how to convey this without offending her. She slides into the booth across the table from you and, true to form, begins her tirade. This time it’s about one of your friends who is constantly late. “It drives me crazy,” she begins.”

I wait and wait for her. Is her time more important than mine? I’m not going to subject myself to it anymore! I’m sure you’ve noticed it too, haven’t you?”

We’ve all been in this situation. You’re asked to do something you really don’t want to do. Maybe it’s to make food for an event or pick up someone’s child on the other side of town. For whatever reason, this would be a great imposition on you but you can’t bring yourself to say no. You either say you’ll do it anyway or give all the reasons why it really wouldn’t work for you.

There are problems with both of these responses. If you agree to do something you don’t want to, you will feel “trapped” and resentful. If you begin to tell someone all the reasons why you don’t feel you can help, they will begin to solve all the dilemmas for you. You might say, “I’d really like to, but, I have to take my son to the dentist.” The person asking might respond, “Well, isn’t your husband home today? Maybe he could take your son to the dentist for you.” Here again, you feel pressured into doing something you don’t want to do and resentment starts to build.

How can we “unlearn” trying to please everyone else while sacrificing our own needs?

• Remember that no one can “make” you do anything you don’t want to do. You make the decisions. If something won’t work for you, address it assertively.

You might say, “That won’t work for me today but if I hear of anyone who can help I’ll let you know.” If they persist, gently repeat yourself.

• You don’t need to give reasons why you can’t do something. Just cordially and directly decline.

• You are not responsible to solve all dilemmas. We naturally want to help and please others but it should not be at our expense or the expense of our families.

subject. For example, when she talks about constantly waiting for her friend you could follow with, “Speaking of waiting, I sent my resume in two weeks ago on that job I was telling you about. I still haven’t heard back.”

This makes it difficult for her to pop back into her previous conversation.

• If all else fails, you may need to address the issue with her. Start with a positive statement, say what you are feeling and end with encouragement. You might say, “I want you to know that I’m always here to listen to you, but talking about our friends in negative ways really makes me uncomfortable. I think you should go to them and make them aware of your feelings. I know they value your friendship as much as I do.”

We, as women, are unique indeed. We have natural intuition and can be very discerning. Unlearning old and ineffective behavior patterns can result in deeper and longer lasting friendships.

Watch out for questions like this. She is looking for validation. She wants you to justify her behavior.

If woman to woman interaction is to be a dichotomy, let it be because it is strong, direct and effective as well as encouraging, gentle and caring.

Here are some ways to assert yourself and possibly give her some things to think about: • Don’t try to console or validate her with statements like, “She does that to me too and it is irritating.” Keep it positive and direct. The source of anger is usually hurt. Address the source by saying something like, “It sounds like you’re feeling unvalued as a friend. You really need to talk with her about it.” This acknowledges her feelings and directs her to the appropriate person.

• Redirect the conversation. This usually works best if you use something she just said to launch into another

Jennifer Scrogin, R.N., is a Community Educator and Certified Mediator. Through her extensive background in women’s health and education she has founded JIS Communications, a program that focuses on assertive and effective communication between women in the workplace and in their personal relationships. Have a question for Jennifer? She can be reached at Jennifer@womenslifestylemagazine.com.

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Do You Know A Remarkable Woman?

We're looking for women with remarkable stories for future editions of Women's LifeStyle. Tell us in 75 words or fewer what makes a women you know remarkable. Also include: Remarkable Woman's Name Her Phone Number Her E-mail Please include your name and phone numb.

Nominations accepted by e-mail at: wlskazoo@provide.net Subject Line: Remarkable Women

Greater Kalamazoo

THE PEOPLE WHO MAKE IT HAPPEN: Publisher Darlene Clifford Layout and Design Jonathan Guinn Guinn Design—616-581-9169 Business Manager Eric Clifford Advertising Executives Ruth Ann Dibert Sales Manager Distribution Erica Shier

NEED AN AVON REPRESENTATIVE? CALL JANE - OPTION 2

BOOST YOUR EARNINGS WITH AVON BEAUTY CALL: JULIE - OPTION 3

269-657-3139 Greater Kalamazoo Edition• April 2008

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Creating an Make Every Day Mother’s Day

hose of us who are mothers, often look forward to “our day” – Mother’s Day – with anticipation. It’s a day when we are recognized and celebrated for the very important role we play in the lives of others. We look forward to cards and kudos – a meal prepared by someone else; time out from the mundane activities of daily life to do something “special.” If we are fortunate to have a thoughtful family, Mother’s Day can be a wonderful, nourishing day for us.

What if, instead of waiting for our special day to arrive once a year, we created moments of celebration for ourselves every single day? What might it be like to give ourselves recognition, a high five, or a hearty “That a girl!” just when we need it most? It would feel darn good, and it’s important for us to know that there is absolutely nothing wrong with feeling good about who we are and the grand contribution we make to society by being mothers.

Engaging in daily acts of celebration and recognizing our efforts as women and mothers is not a selfish thing. Instead, they are acts of self awareness, which build muscles of empowerment, one small deed at a time. We engage in such acts with humility and joy at who we are in our essence; at who we are becoming. Daily acts of celebration nurture our body, mind, heart and soul.

How can self celebration be woven into our daily lives? Allow me to suggest a few simple acts of self awareness, self love, that can do just that.

Determine the ways that resonate with you and give them a try. I guarantee they can uplift and restore you.

Simple Acts of Caretaking Give yourself what you need in the moment to feel calm and content.

Create simple, self-nurturing rituals: a hot soak in the tub, an evening spent with a good book, a nap, a mindful walk in the beauty of nature, a trip to the tanning booth, a spa treatment, buying yourself flowers on the way home from work, engaging in your favorite hobby, chocolate indulgence, a day away. The list is endless.

Simply notice what it is you’re drawn to in the moment—ask yourself what could create a greater sense of peace and happiness within you.

Be your own fairy godmother and grant yourself that special wish. Without guilt, of course!

Connect with a Soul Friend In The Fabric of Friendship, author Joy Carol writes, “If I were to name something special that I would want to give every woman on earth, it would be the gift of a healthy friendship with another woman. Women who have strong, genuine friendships feel accepted, affirmed, supported, sustained, and loved, even in the most difficult times.”

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Greater Kalamazoo Edition• April 2008

I celebrate myself, and sing myself.

– Walt Whitman One of the most potent acts of celebrating ourselves is spending time with a kindred spirit. A meal shared with a dear friend can do more to enhance our sense of self than just about anything I can think of. If time and budget are constrained, even a companionable cup of coffee or tea can serve as a healing balm to our soul. In a pinch, a phone conversation will do. Minutes of uplifting dialogue with a dear one who affirms our essence can set our heart dancing again.

Spend Precious Time with Yourself I recall reading a statement by self-actualization mentor Jean Huston that touched me to the core.

She said, “I want to know if you can be alone with yourself, and if you truly like the company you keep in the empty moments.” Part of becoming self aware is knowing how to care for and appreciate ourselves all by ourselves. Depending upon others to give us what we need to feel good can dissolve into disempowering acts of codependence. As we become more comfortable with spending time alone, we learn to listen to that wise woman within us who knows what we need to thrive, to soar. Giving ourselves those things, without the well-meaning guidance of others, can deliver us to the shores of our own glory – and that is a wonderful place to be!

This year, once the dust has settled around Mother’s Day, vow to keep the celebration going.

Get creative. Challenge yourself to design daily acts of self appreciation and celebrate YOU. By doing so, you will get reacquainted with your truest self – the remarkable and confident woman you were created to be.

May every day of your life be Mother’s Day!

Jan Deremo Lundy is an inspirational speaker, spiritual director and author of Coming Home to Ourselves: A Woman’s Journey to Wholeness. Her newest book, co-authored with her husband, is Perfect Love: How to Find Yours and Make It Last Forever. E-mail her at jan@awakenedliving.com or visit awakenedliving.com.

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As women, we're so busy taking care of others that sometimes we give little attention to ourselves - especially if we're moms. This Mother's Day, pamper your mom with delightful gifts that moisturize, cleanse, soften and beautify.

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Sinclair & Valentine® Aromatherapies Rainbow Bath Salts Purse $10.99 • Available at most drugstore chains or sinclairandvalentine.com Blended with essential oils, these Pacific Sea salts will cater to her every mood.

Pamper her with bath time choices of Serenity, Slumber, Restore, Harmony or Awaken. This lovely gift pack will allow her to indulge and create her own in-home spa.

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Olivella® Face and Body • Soap and Hand Cream $3.25 (5.29oz bar), $9.95 (2.54oz). To find a retailer near you, visit olivellasoap.com

SIRCUIT®SKIN • cosmeceuticals • Advanced Trial Set $40 •Available at sircuitskin.com Mother Nature and the lab team unite to reach the highest standards of cutting edge skincare. Give mom the gift of beauty that celebrities like Kate Hudson and Angelina Jolie are big fans of SIRCUIT®SKIN cosmeceuticals. This lovely little gift pack comes loaded with answers to all of her skin care needs.

Sinclair & Valentine® Footsie Fixers™ $5.99 each • Available at most drugstore chains or sinclairandvalentine.com Great for the hardworking mom, Footsie Fixers are the ultimate in foot care. Soothe, soften and mend with these quick fixers: Heel Repair Shea Stick, Tootsie Time Foot & Leg Balm™ and Sweet Feet Instant Pedicure™. Choose from ingredients like spearmint to put a new spring in her step, shea butter to smooth things over, and sugar to buff away a bad day.

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Gentle and hypoallergenic, the face and body soap cleanses and moisturizes, while delivering incredible anti-aging benefits.

Olivella’s Hand Cream is the perfect remedy for dry hands, leaving them silky smooth without the yucky residue.

Gifts That Will Keep Her Looking and Feeling Her Best!

By Marianne Bockheim

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Sun Lustre Bronzer $28.50 • Available at the Body Shop stores nationwide or online at the bodyshop.com 2

The lustrous bronzing powder, housed in a retro-style compact, is embossed with a beautiful ornamental motif and delivers a light diffusing, moisture-enriched bronze shimmer that's simply stunning. Available in Bronze Gleam and Radiant Blush.

Olivella offers a skin care line formulated from 100 percent natural virgin olive oil, which is rich in vitamins and antioxidants.

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Home Floral & Gift Boutique

Chaubrei Gardens 8880 N. 32nd Street, Richland

269-629-8050 www.chaubreigardens.com www.clocktowergreen.com

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Dare to Bare

Marshalls

Asos

The hottest fashion statement this season.

Asos

Fig Leaves

Aguaclara cutaway swimsuit

Long Tall Sally

One piece swimsuits made a resurgence on the fashion front during the last couple of years and will continue to be poopular as they emphasize the silhouette and add an air of elegance to swimwear.

The biggest trend with one piece swimsuits is the new sexy cut away detailing, which is more daring than a classic one piece. It’s a fashion forward alternative to the itsy bitsy teenie weenie bikini and offers wearers more coverage around the stomach.

Asymmetric styles, ethnic prints and tankinis are trends we can expect to continue.

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Tofu Fingers 1 1/2 1/2 1/2 1/8 1 2 2

package tofu, extra firm (12 -14 oz.) cup bread crumbs, dried teaspoon garlic powder teaspoon salt teaspoon black pepper, ground egg, beaten tablespoons milk tablespoons soybean oil Assorted dipping sauces

Cut tofu into twelve, 1x1x3-inch pieces. Place pieces on paper towel to drain.

Mix bread crumbs, garlic powder, salt and pepper in medium bowl.

Beat egg and milk together in small bowl. Dip tofu in egg mixture. Place tofu in bread crumb mixture, turning to coat all sides.

Heat oil in large frying pan over medium high heat. Add tofu, reduce heat and cook 1-1/2 to 2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Serve with dipping sauces.

Dipping Sauce Suggestions: Honey Mustard, Sweet & Sour, Barbecue, Sweet Chili, Ketchup and Ranch Dressing.

Linguini with Roasted Garlic Sauce 1 garlic*, skin attached 2 teaspoons and an additional 2 tablespoons soybean oil (vegetable oil) 8 ounces linguini, fresh or dry 3 tablespoons shallots, minced 1/2 cup dry white wine 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth 2 cups tomatoes (2 medium), seeded and diced 1 cup Edamame (Whole green soybeans), shelled and cooked 1/2 cup pine nuts, toasted 1/4 cup basil**, fresh, chopped 1/4 cup Parmesan, grated Preheat oven to 400°F. Cut pointed top off garlic head, leaving cloves intact, and place on square of aluminum foil.

Drizzle two teaspoons oil over cloves. Seal foil around garlic and bake at 400°F for 30 to 40 minutes or until cloves are soft; cool.

Squeeze paste from cloves, mash and set aside.

Prepare linguini as directed on package; drain and set aside. Heat 2 tablespoons oil in medium saucepan. Add shallots and garlic paste. Sauté until shallots are translucent, stirring occasionally.

Add wine and chicken broth, bring to boil and simmer until reduced in half. Add tomatoes and edamame. Cook 1 minute until warmed, stirring gently. Stir-in pine nuts and basil. Remove from heat; add salt and pepper to taste. Spoon over linguini and sprinkle with Parmesan. * May substitute 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder for the head of garlic, if desired. Add garlic powder with the chicken broth. ** May substitute 1 tablespoon dried basil for fresh basil, if desired.

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Apple Cinnamon Pancakes 1 3/4 1/2 1/3

cup buttermilk pancake mix cup vanilla soymilk* teaspoon cinnamon, ground cup apples, peeled and diced**

Mix pancake mix, soymilk and cinnamon together until blended.

Stir in apples. Cook as directed on pancake mix package. * The amount of liquid may vary with pancake mix. Use the same amount of soymilk as the liquid amount stated in the package directions. ** May substitute 1/3 cup apple pie filling for the apples.

Black Bean Salad 1 1 1 1/2 1/4 1/4 3/4 1/2

can black soybeans (16 oz. can), drained and rinsed cup drained canned or cooked corn kernels cup sliced celery cup diced sweet red peppers and green peppers cup sliced green onions and ripe olive cup soybean oil (vegetable oil) and white wine vinegar, each teaspoon salt teaspoon chili powder

Lemon Tofu Cheesecake

Combine drained soybeans, corn, celery, sweet peppers, green onions, olives and hot peppers in a large bowl; toss to mix. Combine remaining ingredients in a small bowl and whisk to blend all ingredients or in a cruet and shake until blended.

Crumb Crust 1 cup vanilla wafer crumbs 2 tablespoons pecans, finely chopped

Freshly ground pepper to taste.

Pour dressing over soybean mixture and marinate at least 1 hour.

Filling 2 1 1 3/4 1/4 1 1 3 3

tablespoons soy margarine, melted pound Silken tofu pound lowfat cream cheese cup granulated sugar cup all-purpose flour tablespoon grated lemon peel tablespoon vanilla eggs egg whites Chopped pecans, optional Frozen berries, thawed (for garnish)

Combine vanilla wafer crumbs, pecans and margarine; mix well. Press mixture into bottom of 9-inch springform pan.

Bake at 375°F about 8 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on wire rack.

In mixer bowl, beat tofu until smooth. Add cream cheese, sugar, flour, lemon peel and vanilla; mix until completely blended.

Beat in eggs and whites, one at a time; mix well. Pour filling over crust.

Bake at 375°F 50 to 60 minutes or until filling is set and edges of top are lightly browned. Cool on wire rack and refrigerate overnight to cool completely. Remove ring and press chopped pecans into sides of cheesecake, if desired. Cut into 12 portions, dipping knife blade in hot water between each slice.

Serve 1 to 2 ounces berries over each portion.

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Brilliant Colors

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Pretty Print

Dresses Galore

Cropped Jackets

Wide-Leg Pants

Interesting Details

BeautifulYou DRESS OUT LOUD! courtesy of TJ Maxx

Top Five Essentials Color plays a major role in fashion this season, so it’s easy to transition your wardrobe by mixing in the top spring color choices. Look for such hues as cobalt, turquoise, green, lilac, fuchsia, cherry red or lemon yellow. Black and white and all white is trés chic but update these looks with the pop of colorful accessories or shoes. Popular designs include florals, bold graphics, color blocking or even madras plaid.

“Prints are a simple yet chic way to update your wardrobe,” advises style expert Sonya Cosentini. “Pair a dramatic print top or dress with simple neutral accessories; a sense of balance is key.”

This year’s must haves:

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The dress. As an office or evening wardrobe staple, this season’s dress is versatile, colorful, easy to wear and perfect for travel. Try the fitted sheath, a flowing halter, swingy baby-doll, a sun dress and the classic shirtdress. Both empire styles as well as belted waists are popular. In addition to the beautiful colors and prints, look for interesting details such as embroidery, lace, buttons and unique sleeves.

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The skirt. Volume is the way to go—look for full skirts, especially pleated eyelet styles and knee-length pencil skirts. Wide-leg pants with sailor button details look fresh, especially in denim and linen. Slim shorts look great with full tops.

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The handbag. Handbags continue to be the “it” accessory. Try a large patent leather tote, metallic satchel or jeweled envelope clutch. Details such as long shoulder straps, intricate closures and bright, beautiful colors make spring and summer bags unique.

Colors range from fresh pastel florals to bright fuchsia and green as well as mustard yellow, black, white and metallics. Also, the new ‘ombre’ style fades from one color into another for a gorgeous statement piece that is versatile and interesting.

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The shoes. Shoes run the gamut from ankle-tie wedges, gladiator sandals, open-toe high heels, chunky platforms, embellished ballet flats and strappy sandals. Indulge in patent, metallic, canvas, suede and leather footwear in every conceivable color and print.

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The jewelry. Make a beautiful statement with tri-color bangles, colorful pendants, hoop earrings, cuff bracelets and chunky beaded necklaces are the must-haves. Scarves pop with colorful retro designs.

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C o n q u e r Yo u r C l u t t e r

ENERGIZE YOUR WARDROBE

By Alexandra Fix

If something in your life does not celebrate who you are today and what you love, or it no longer serves a useful purpose for you, consider it clutter. Donate, sell or recycle it.

My daughter shared this thought with me once and I have it posted beside my closet door as a reminder to wear what I love and love what I wear.

LIVE

LAVISHLY

Does the thought of opening your bedroom closet make you want to go back to bed? Then today could be the perfect day to energize your wardrobe. Swing open your clothes closet door and discover what’s meant to shine this season. Choose today to live lavishly with what you have and stop saving all your nice things for special occasions. It’s time to purge the old, the worn, the unused and the dull from your clothing collection. It’s also time to pull out those gems you never wear and figure out how to make them work for you; how to make them part of your everyday wardrobe.

CLEAR

THE SPACE

No closet revamp will work without first clearing the space. Pull out your clothes and group them in like piles on the bed. Vacuum the cobwebs out of the corners of your empty closet. Turn your attention back to the clothes and with one pile at a time, select the clothes you know you want to keep. Before you return even those to the closet though, look them over carefully and check for pilling, stains, seam holes, and stretched out parts. If they’re in rough shape, throw them out. Be decisive. Select only what makes you look and feel your best. Make the easy choices first. If you know it fits well, looks nice and is frequently used, return it to the closet. If any of your well-loved clothes are also well-worn, set them aside for possible replacement. If anything needs minor repairs, make a list and designate a mending date on your personal calendar.

FASHION

LINEUP

As you select clothes to keep, you’re going to run across those forlorn little items in your closet that you really and truly love, but never seem to wear. There’s something missing. They need something to match them, something to make them complete. What’s it going to take to get you to wear this item? What’s missing? Find the match that’s going to make it the outfit you want. Would you wear that top with jeans? Put on the jeans and try them together. Could you dress it up with some classic black slacks? Play around. Have fun with this clothing project. Try on your choices with jewelry. Dabble with new outfit combinations. Look at these clothes with a fresh eye.

VINTAGE

FINDS

Two of my daughters love to frequent vintage stores and thrift shops.

These are the places where they often find amazing gems – that one piece that completes an outfit. The problem is that the one piece often needs a companion that will allow it to shine. Decide what you need and put it on your shopping list. In fact, plan to take that clothing item along when you shop so you can make the perfect match.

PLAN YOUR PURCHASES While we often use a grocery list as a guide, we seldom use a clothes list. Too often, we haphazardly approach clothes shopping with no plan in mind. Go through magazines and catalogs and cut out some of the looks you admire. Spread them out and see what comes through. Are you dressing one style and longing to be another? After you purge your closet, take time to assess what you need and want. What should be replaced? What basics would provide a solid start for an outfit any day of the year? Do you need a red blouse to complete an outfit? Does your diamond pendant need a new clasp? Would a pair of open-toed heels look great with that dress? Or would a retro black cardigan extend the use of that pearl necklace? List the clothing needs you identify and begin your shopping search that way. Determine where you want to shop for each item and stay with the plan. You might find some fun extras along the way, but try to stay focused, and this spring, step into your energized wardrobe with gusto.

“A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous.” – Coco Chanel 12

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“We like to keep our young mothers busy,” the counselor told me. So I was placed in a private home as a mother’s helper. It not only eliminated the expense of living in the residence, but also provided me with minimal spending money during my pregnancy. There were three children in the home, and I was treated like part of the family. Since I had plenty of free time, Mom brought me some of my craft projects, including the bag of quilt squares that I had started to assemble. I actually finished pressing the squares and sewing them into nine-patch squares. When I returned to Booth, I had enough of the larger squares for a quilt.

Those were the days when a pregnant, unwed daughter was conThe baby was born; a beautiful daughter. Deciding to sidered release my daughter for adoption wasn’t easy. My parents and the staff wanted me to sign papers without seeing my daughter, but I sneaked down to the nursery to say hello. I embarrassing, spent several minutes looking through the glass. She looked and even like a scrapper to me with her face scrunched up in a cry for attention. A strong-willed child, I thought. I believed scandalous, that she deserved a better life than I could give her under the circumstances. since my par“I want what’s best for you, little one,” I whispered.

Then, with tears coursing down my cheeks, I went back to ents served in my room and later signed the paper that terminated my the local parental rights.

I returned home with my parents and life resumed its hectic church. pace. I found a new job, became involved in church activi-

The Fabric of a Quilt Essay by Esther Middlewood

hen I was young, my mother supervised a drapery workroom. Because of my interest in craft projects, she saved the books of sample fabrics for me. Among them were books that contained small swatches of polished cotton, a fabric used on a limited basis today for making valances. I set aside those pieces after carefully trimming away the cardboard frames, and eventually, I had collected a bagful of two-inch cotton squares.

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ties, and volunteered as a hostess at the USO in Detroit, and eventually moved to Virginia. Life moved along, and the bag of quilt squares returned to my dresser drawer.

It wasn’t until after Mom’s death in 1972 that I once again needed the comfort of working on my quilt. I purchased a sheet with daisies on it for the quilt back and extra material to use as a framework for the nine-patch squares. A flannel blanket served as the quilt batting. As I stitched, I thought about Mom and how much she wanted me to finish the project. Unfortunately, she never had the chance to see it.

Through the years, there have been many times when I almost gave the quilt away. But something always caused me to simply put it back in the cedar chest that had once belonged to Mom. Then, 45 years after that night in the nursery, the telephone rang.

“Enough for a special project,” I told my mother.

During my rebellious teen years, those squares were stashed in a shoe box in my bottom dresser drawer. Even though craft projects were not on my agenda as I left home to assert my independence, the bag of squares came with me. Rebellion and independence didn’t set well with me and I returned home. I was suffering from borderline malnutrition and was informed by my doctor that I was pregnant. Those little pieces of fabric once again caught my attention. Sewing by hand gave me something to occupy my time as I rested and waited. I began to piece the little squares into my own ninepatch design for a quilt.

Those were the days when a pregnant, unwed daughter was considered embarrassing, and even scandalous, especially since my parents served in the local church. So they sent me to Booth Memorial Hospital, the Salvation Army maternity residence in Detroit.

The overwhelming brick building stood about a couple of blocks from the railroad tracks running on the north side of the Detroit River. Although the building is long gone, I can still picture the concrete steps and the arched entryway; and hear the trains that ran along the nearby tracks, signaling the crossings with their mournful whistle.

“Are you Esther Middlewood?” an unfamiliar voice asked. The caller explained that she worked with the court system and my daughter had requested that her birth record be opened. “Are you willing to meet with her?” the caller continued.

For 45 years, I had wondered about that “scrappy” little girl from the nursery. I prayed that she had been adopted and raised by a loving family, but I had no way of knowing what had happened. My heart leaped for joy! Now, all my questions would be answered.

I have met with my daughter and her adoptive family. I am blessed beyond measure because I know that she flourished under the care of her family.

I presented her with that nine-patch quilt as a continuation of the line from my mother, through me, to her. It was our birthday gift to her in 2006.

The quilt was sewn completely by hand, including the final binding. It was tied rather than quilted because that is the way that my grandmother finished her quilts. Through the years, that quilt had been patched with love, a gift from three generations of “mothers” to a daughter who was found.

Come In For Your Free Summer Makeover Merle Norman Studio & Hair Salon 4614 W. Main Westwood Plaza Kalamazoo 269-345-8035 Make-up, Hair & Waxing

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These mini souffles are a nice addition to a Mother’s Day brunch buffet or as a light lunch with a salad.

Mini Ham and Mushroom Souffles Serves 6 6 tablespoons butter or margarine 1 cup sliced fresh mushrooms 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon pepper 1-1/2 cups milk 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese (4 ounces) 1 cup diced fully-cooked ham 6 eggs, separated 3/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

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In a medium saucepan, melt butter. Add mushrooms and saute till tender. Remove mushrooms, reserving drippings in pan. Stir flour, salt and pepper into drippings till smooth. Gradually stir in milk; cook over medium-high heat until thickened and bubbly, stirring constantly. Remove from heat; add cheese, stirring till melted. Stir in mushrooms and ham.

Beat egg whites and cream of tartar at high speed with electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Using clean beaters, beat egg yolks until thickened and lemon-colored, about 5 minutes. Fold ham mixture into yolks. Pour the yolk mixture over beaten egg whites; fold gently. Spoon mixture into 6 ungreased 1 1/2-cup souffle dishes. Bake in a 300 degree oven for 45-50 minutes or till a knife inserted near center comes out clean. Serve immediately.

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• April 2008

To make one large souffle: Spoon mixture into an ungreased 2-quart souffle dish. Bake in a 300º F oven for 50-60 minutes.

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LOOK WHO’S

TALKING An Interview with Amy Knapp

From the Editor: Amy & I meet at a local coffee shop and I was immediately aware of her zest for life. Her passion for her family and her dedication to helping other moms organize their lives was inspiring. She knows who she is and understands exactly what’s important in her life. After talking with Amy, one feels inspired to live their lives to the fullest! Without a doubt, the biggest surprise Amy had in store for me was her very generous gift of 50 Amy Knapp’s Family Organizers for a promotion for our magazine.

We really can’t thank her enough! She’s definitely our Women of the Month! Thanks Amy! Profession: Hometown:

Amy Knapp’s Family Organizer, Owner Amy hales from Washington, MI (Near Detroit) She moved to Chelsea, MI at age 10 : Education: Western Michigan University – Social Work B.S. Family: Married - Husband: Dave Son: Kyle 14 Daughter: Natalie 12 Resides: Portage

We have our own celebrity in our midst! Amy Knapp recently was applauded in the March 2008 Redbook Magazine. The article: Design Your Dream Job! How Women Like You Did It. She was a winner in the REDBOOK/Silpada Design Your Life Awards – 10 Amazing Women. And here’s how she did it and her advice on how you can too!

After leaving a high-profile professional life and becoming a stay-at-home mom, Amy Knapp was struggling to get her family organized. She never dreamed her solutions and ideas would become a full time home based business.

Amy started her professional life as an administrator of a residential facility for suicidal young women. She eventually entered the business world taking a full-time training position within the same company. She began writing and facilitating courses on sales, confrontation and time management. After 3 years, Amy left social work and joined forces with two women to form Concept to Promotion, a specialty advertising company. Within 5 years, Amy was doing national and international campaigns for large corporations here in Michigan. With sales exceeding a million dollars a year, Amy’s professional career was a fantastic success.

Amy married her husband Dave and started a family. She was challenged, but happy, as she learned to balance both a high-pressure business life and her growing personal life.

When her son was 2 years old, Amy’s daughter Natalie was born. At two months, Natalie was diagnosed with meningitis and at 9 months old, she was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy, a life long diagnoses that rocked Amy’s world. After consulting specialists at University of Michigan, they were told Natalie would never walk or talk and be severely mentally handicapped. She vividly remembers the drive back to Portage that day. The isolation and feeling of no hope was overwhelming. The next day was gray and gloomy as Amy entered the library, determined to find knowledge and hope. In tears, she asked the librarian where to find information on Cerebral Palsy. After sharing her story, the librarian asked her if she’d like to sit down, so he could share his story – you see, he had Cerebral Palsy too. As they talked and shared, another gentlemen at the

same table put down the newspaper, apologized for eavesdropping and told them about his daughter – who also had Cerebral Palsy. Hours later, as Amy left the library, the sun was shinning and Amy knew she had been given hope in the form of real people and that she was on a “beautiful path that was a gift.”

Shortly after the diagnosis, Amy decided to sell her portion of the business and become a full time stay-at-home mom. She needed to manage Natalie’s medical needs and constant care. Always an organized self-starter, Amy quickly became frustrated with her lack of achievements on the home front. She felt constantly unorganized and confused on what to do next. In her professional life, Amy had always used a Franklin Covey day planner, but it didn’t work for her family life. After experimenting with several methods, Amy created her own day planner with a family slant. Amy Knapp’s Family Organizer is Parenting ™ Tested and Mom Approved. The easy to use format helps even the busiest of families gain control of their active lifestyle. Features include: Weekly and Monthly calendar grids Weekly Grocery Lists – perforated to tear out and go!

Weekly Menu Planning saves time and money.

Weekly to do lists and inspirational quotes.

Color Coded Stickers Twelve years later, her family organizer is a national success, receiving recognition in Redbook and being sold at Barnes & Noble, Borders, Waldenbooks, and Meijers.

Twelve years later she is still on her path and truly thankful for this gift!

WHAT IS YOUR PHILOSOPY ABOUT ORGANIZING? Organizing is not a competitive sport. Many people make it way too complicated. It’s all about what brings quality to your life.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR YOUNGER YEARS: Amy grew up on farm in Chelsea, Michigan. Her family raised cattle and sheep. She was very involved in 4H and showed steers and sheep in events.

WHAT KEEPS YOU IN KALAMAZOO? Hubby Dave Knapp owns Knapp Energy a family owed and operated business for two generations. For them Kalamazoo is the perfect size and place to raise their family.

WHAT DO YOU COLLECT? Not surprisingly, Amy the organizer is anti-collections.

No clutter is her rule!

WHICH CHARITY OR FOUNDATION IS CLOSEST TO YOUR HEART? Special Olympics, where daughter Natalie finds great joy.

WHAT WOULD WE BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? Amy thinks any type of cooking is boring. Her specialty is grilled cheese sandwiches. Recently, Amy hurried to make some of her famous sandwiches for hubby Dave and son Kyle. With a strange look on his face Dave suddenly stopped eating. Pulling a wire bread bag tie out of his mouth, he turned to Kyle and said: “Son, that was the last thing your mom knew how to make.” They’ve settled on Manwiches lately!

WILL YOU SHARE SOME ADVICE FOR OTHER WOMEN WANTING TO START A HOME BASED BUSINESS? Amy says to follow your passion and natural aptitudes. Define your available time now versus down the road.

Save some start up dollars for comfort. Look at your needs….do other women have thesame needs? Don’t worry about starting huge or ending huge.

WHAT IS THE HARDEST THING ABOUT HAVING A HOME BASED BUSINESS? Defining your workspace is vital. Have well communicated rules for children. Amy would hold up a wooden spoon, not to spank, but rather as a large visual sign that she was on the phone and not to be interrupted. Follow through is important for the children though, so when you’re done with the phone call immediately check with them to see what they needed. If you want them to learn respect for your needs, you need to show them the same courtesy. Define realistic work hours and follow your plan. Be creative with your limitations. If you don’t have a desk and must use the kitchen table, use a special tablecloth for work hours to start a mental shift to work mode.

WHAT’S THE BEST THING ABOUT OWNING A HOME BASED BUSINESS? She can be there for her family!

Amy’s is currently working on a digital version of her organizer which will be PC based, help with locating coupons, do home accounting and more. You may purchase her organizer and other products on line at: www.familyorganizer.com

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BeautifulYou Smart and Savvy Hair Care . . .

By Peter Lamas

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he term “shampoo” comes from the Hindu word “champo,” which means “to massage” or “to knead.” The use of botanicals in hair care has been documented through the centuries. Chinese women used a fragrant cedar extract as a finishing rinse to promote hair growth, ancient Arabians brewed quince peels, and Filipinos steeped aloe stems in cold water. In North America, Native Americans showed settlers how to use the root of soapwort, a member of the carnation family, as a mild shampoo, and how to incorporate chaparral extract, a desert plant, into a dandruff treatment. In the 1800s, African Americans treated their hair with shea butter to strengthen and moisturize; they also used mayonnaise as a conditioner.

The first successful retail shampoo was developed by John Breck in the 1930s, introduced into the mass market by the famous “Breck Girl” advertisements. In the early 1950s, Helene Curtis introduced the Egg Shampoo, and the 1970s saw jojoba hot oil treatments and honey-based cleansers and conditioners in abundance. It wasn’t until the last quarter century, however, that studies began to show that many of the ingredients found in most personal care products could have negative effects on one’s health. These findings, coupled with the natural products boom of the ‘70s, paved the way for the current botanicals trend.

Listed on the right are the latest natural hair care ingredients to hit the market.

Peter Lamas is one of the leading make-up artists and beauty experts in the world. His clients read like a Who’s Who of Hollywood -- Jackie Onassis, Elizabeth Taylor, Audrey Hepburn, Faye Dunaway, Diana Ross, Sharon Stone, Cindy Crawford and Kate Winslet, to name but a few.

Peter’s film credits include the gorgeous make-up design seen in James Cameron’s Titanic.

Peter regularly appears on television and in the media in North/South America, Europe and Asia. He travels extensively across the globe, speaking to women of many different cultures, about how they can realize their potential to be beautiful both inside and out.

Peter is founder and Chairman of Lamas Beauty. Learn more about Peter’s own line of natural shampoos at LamasBeauty.com

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• Wheatgrass: Widely known as a nutritional supplement to help removes toxins from the bloodstream, wheatgrass is also one of Nature’s most effective hair cleansers. It’s also packed with antioxidants to protect hair from damaging UV-induced free radicals. Its deep-cleansing action removes excess oil, residue and debris, making it ideal for normal to oily hair types.

• Rice Protein: Great for fine, limp hair, hydrolyzed rice protein has a low molecular weight, which enables it to penetrate the hair shaft and expand its diameter for noticeably thicker hair. Hollywood stylists often spritz rice water onto hair before styling to impart instant volume and fullness.

• Soy Protein: As one of the ingredients creating the latest buzz, soy has emerged as Nature’s “cure-all” in hair care.

This revitalizing, hydrating protein can be found in shampoos and conditioners. In shampoos, it helps hydrate, reconstruct and strengthen hair shafts weakened by chemicals or overdryness. In conditioners, it smooths the cuticle, helps restore body and elasticity, and guards against color fading.

• Chinese Herbs: Used for centuries by the Chinese to stimulate and energize weak hair and scalp, these exotic botanical blends gently remove follicle-blocking sebum and debris that can slow growth and cause premature hair loss. They’ve also been shown to alleviate dandruff and symptoms associated with the condition, including itchiness and dryness.

• Goldenseal Extract: An effective healer for hair, this natural extract from the goldenseal root historically has been used as a hair tonic to cleanse and add shine. It’s also known to help control dryness of the scalp.

• Avocado Oil: A very rich emollient, this buttery oil is the ultimate natural conditioner, leaving hair glossy, smooth and moisturized. It strengthens and softens brittle, broken hair shafts and split ends caused by overexposure to heat tools, the sun and chemical processes.

• Carrot Seed: This extract hydrates each strand, leaving it soft and luxurious while also eliminating excess oil and product residue from hair surface. Its protective properties shield hair from external aggressions. Great for all hair types.

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BeautifulYou The Eyes Have it We can do something about the effects of time on our skin regardless of our budget. “You can find beauty remedies in the produce aisle or the dermatologist’s office,” explains renowned, Los Angeles-based dermatologist Dr. Jessica Wu. “It all depends on how much you want to spend and the results you’re looking for.” Here area some options:

Under $5 There’s certainly something to be said for that time-honored tradition of placing cucumbers and chamomile tea bags under the eyes. It helps soothe skin and reduce inflammation.

Under $20 Your neighborhood pharmacy has aisles full of choices.

Look for products with antiinflammatory botanicals that work by accelerating the natural cell-renewal process. Widely available products like Aveeno’s Positively Ageless lifting and firming eye cream with shiitake and wheat can make your skin appear fresher and rejuvenated.

Under $100 Clinique’s repairwear intensive eye cream is a potent moisturizer created for all skin types. It targets the appearance of eye area lines and wrinkles, sustains antioxidants and strengthens vulnerable skin for a brighter, vibrant, refreshed look. Use twice daily morning and night. Apply with ring finger to entire eye area using a gentle, patting motion.

If you’re into pampering yourself, check out Wu’s favorite pick - Relastin Eye Silk. It’s the first of its kind that’s clinically proven to help improve the functional elastin content in the skin (Elastin is a protein complex that fights off wrinkles and sagging).

Under $500 Make an appointment with your dermatologist for an under-eye chemical peel.

Considered safe for delicate skin, an under-eye chemical peel is a good way to reduce dark circles and fine lines.

$500 and up And finally there’s the injectable fillers option. Used to literally fill the fine lines and furrows around the eye, the resulting smoother skin lasts about six months.

Be Good To Your Skin It doesn’t have to take a lot of time or trouble to be good to the skin you’re in. Here are a few hints to help: • Drink to your skin’s health. Carry a refillable water bottle so you can stay hydrated during the day as recommended by the National Institutes of Health. Add flavoring such as lemon or lime juice, sugarfree beverage mix or decaffeinated herbal teas to help you drink more liquids.

• Give it a rest. Just a five minute break during the day can relieve the stress that the American Physiological Society says can distress your skin. Take a few deep breaths and close your eyes, put your feet up or take a short walk outside if you can.

• Put a damper on dry skin. Use a humidifier, suggests the U.S. National Library of Medicine, to keep dry indoor air moisturized enough.

• Improve skin from the inside out. Get enough sleep, eat a balanced diet, don’t smoke and exercise regularly. Good skin, explains dermatologist Lawrence Gibson, M.D., depends on good general health.

• Stay away from dangerous rays. Always wear a moisturizer or sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, advise the skin care experts at the Mayo Clinic, whatever the weather or time of year.

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Fashion That Could Save Your

by Angela Klinske (or Your Child’s) Life mergency medical bracelets serve a practical purpose, but there’s nothing stylish about those silver beaded bracelets that seem to advertise your medical condition to the world. Especially if you’re a teenager.

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In response to a mother’s wish to have her sixteen-year-old daughter Kristen, who has Type 1 Diabetes, wear her bracelet, Hope Paige Designs worked with Kristin to design a stylish bracelet she would want to wear. Kristen's situation inspired Hope Paige Designs to develop an entire line of fashionable medical emergency bracelets and chic awareness jewelry to appeal to men, women, boys and girls.

Jewelry making started as a hobby for friends Shelly Fisher and Lisa Hobyak, but their accidental business venture has become a valued resource for organizations such as Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and the Make-a-Wish Foundation. They also design custom bracelets for individual customers with inscriptions that range anywhere from “Peanut Allergy” to “Do Not Resuscitate.”

Stretch mesh bracelets from HopePaige.com

“It puts your life in perspective when you see what people are going through,” said Fisher.

She explains theirs is not a traditional business model.

“It’s more emotional than practical. The outside business person may look at our model and say, ‘Why?’” That’s because almost each piece is custom designed; they only mark up their product by about 15 percent in an industry where the markup can be as high as 100 percent or more.

They intentionally keep their margins low. A portion of each purchase goes directly to charity.

Stock medical emergency jewelry is available in its most popular styles, including stretch mesh, hemp and stainless steel. And they’re discreetly marked with the wearer’s medical condition.

The company also sells chic awareness jewelry.

“Extensive research was conducted to ensure the bracelets would not be overlooked by trained EMT workers in an emergency,” said Lisa Hobyak. “If worn properly on the left arm, the design lets EMT workers know immediately that the wearer has a medical condition.”

The business, headquartered in Pennsylvania with 12 employees sells its jewelry on the company website, Hopepaige.com.

Over 200 Spaces!

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Crafts & Antiques 6187 West “D” Avenue Kalamazoo, MI 49009 1/2 mile West of US 131(Exit 44) 6 miles North of Kalamazoo

GREAT GIFTS FOR MOM! Kalamazoo area’s largest selection of hand-crafted merchandise, collectibles, home decor (including Primitives, Lodge, Country & Shabby Chic,) pottery, candles, greeting cards, gourmet foods, log furniture, garden art & so much more!

May 1-10 - Enter to win a Mother’s Day Basket.

Call or Stop By for Details.

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BE SURE TO VISIT OUR ANTIQUE DEPARTMENT CARRYING QUALITY FURNITURE, FURNISHINGS & GLASSWARE

C A F É & G O U R M E T C A T E R I N G "Where Michigan Products Are the Main Ingredient"

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Climb aboard the Club Car right next door!

Come join us for a unique dining experience in a vintage Denver Rio Grande Train Car. We offer complete lunch and dinner menus; breakfast on weekends only. Banquest facilities for 15-250 Open Tu-Th 11am -9pm, Fri 11am - 10pm Sat 8am - 10pm, Sun 8am - 8pm

209 South Webster St, Augusta

269-731-CAFE (2233) www.afoodaffair.biz

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6225 West “D” Ave. Kalamazoo, MI 49009

269-342-8087

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Fun Family Gardening Activities

By Charlie Nardozzi

ardening is a great way for kids to get exercise, spend time outdoors and learn about the environment, food and wildlife.

However, many kids grow up today without the benefit of having a gardening or farming background and access to free play outdoors. They often don’t know what to do in a garden. That’s where parents and grandparents come in. Adults can help kids learn about growing plants in a fun and engaging way. Plus, it will be a special time together outdoors, exploring the land, food and flowers.

G

But what if you don’t know where to start in the garden? What should you do with your kids so they won’t be bored, but you won’t be in over your head?

Here are some simple activities that will inspire your kids and keep them interested in the natural world.

Hold a Vine Race Kids love races. Remember frog-jumping races when you were a kid? Why not hold a plant race to see what vine reaches the finish line first. Fill some large containers with soil and let your child choose some kid-friendly vining plants such as pole beans, ‘Sugar Snap’ peas, climbing nasturtiums and black-eyed Susan vines (Thunbergia). Run a string from the containers to the bottom of an overhang, ceiling, or beam about 6 feet away. Then get ready, plant your seeds, and go! Water and fertilize each container the same and have your kids mark intervals along the string to see who’s winning after the first quarter, halftime, and 3rd quarter. The winner gets a prize – free pole beans and peas to eat!

Make a Plant Car Wash Kids love water and they really love squirting things and each other with it.

Here’s a way to teach kids about safe insect control while having a little fun, too. Make a naturally safe insect spray by dissolving 3 tablespoons of soap flakes or liquid soap in a gallon of water. Use a non-detergent product such as Murphy’s Oil soap. Add the mixture to a plastic spray bottle. Let the kids set up an assembly line of container plants to spray. Teach them how to identify bad bugs and spray the leaves effectively.

Create Funky Plant Containers It’s said that plants can grow just about anywhere. Instead of the standard clay or plastic pots, let your kids choose fun and funky containers to grow plants in.

All you need are containers that are big enough and sturdy enough to hold soil and a plant, plus they need to have some water drainage holes. Some cool container ideas are an old toy (such as a large dump truck), a wagon, empty food container, basketball cut in half, old shoe or even an old hat. Kids will get a kick out of plants growing in weird places, and you can teach them about what it takes to keep container plants healthy.

Charlie Nardozzi, a nationally recognized garden writer, book author, speaker and radio and television personality, has appeared on HGTV, PBS and Discovery Channel television networks. He is the senior horticulturist and spokesperson for the National Gardening Association (www.garden.org) and Chief Gardening Officer for the Hilton Garden Inn.

Annuals Perennials Shrubs

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9660 Shaver Road Portage, MI romencegardensinc.net Greater Kalamazoo Edition• April 2008

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National

Women’s Health Day M A Y

1 0 ,

2 0 0 8

•

T A K E

T H E

P L E D G E !

What is National Women’s Health Week?

The 9th annual National Women’s Health Week will kick off on Mother’s Day, May 11, 2008 and will be celebrated until May 17, 2008. National Women’s Check-Up Day will be Monday, May 12, 2008. National Women’s Health Week empowers women across the country to get healthy by taking action. It is a nationwide inititive that calls attention to the importance of women’s health. Coordinated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office on Women’s Health (OWH), it encourages women to make their health a top priority and take simple steps for a longer, healthier and happier life. During the week, families, communities, businesses, government, health organizations and other groups work together to educate women about steps they can take to improve their physical and mental health and prevent disease, like: Engaging in physical activity most days of the week Eating a nutritious diet Have regular check-ups & preventive screenings from a healthcare provider.

Avoiding risky behaviors, like smoking and not wearing a seatbelt

It is important to celebrate National Women’s Health Week to remind each of us that taking care of ourselves is essential to living longer, healthier and happier lives. We are often the caregivers for our spouses, children and parents and forget to focus on our own health. But research shows that when we take care of ourselves, the health of our family improves. During National Women’s Health Week it is important to educate ourselves, as well as our mothers, grandmothers, daughters, sisters, aunts and girlfriends, about the steps we can take to improve our health and prevent disease.

After all, when women take even the simplest steps to improve our health, the results can be significant and everyone will benefit.

TAKE THE PLEDGE! My Check-Up Day Pledge: As a participant in National Women’s Check-Up Day, I will: Use the interactive screening chart wizard to get an idea of the types of screenings I may need; www.ahrq.gov/ppip/healthywom.htm Contact my doctor or nurse to discuss these and other tests or screenings I may need to get now; Schedule an appointment for at least one of these preventive screenings to occur within the next 90 days; and I will celebrate a healthier me and a healthier US. It’s Your Time! Congratulations on joining the hundreds of women who are taking the time to schedule at least one of the preventive health screenings recommended by their doctor or nurse within the next 90 days.

TAKE THE CHALLENGE! What is the WOMAN Challenge?

This May, thousands of women across the country will embark on an eightweek physical activity challenge for better health. They will be part of the WOMAN Challenge-that is, Women and girls Out Moving Across the Nation. This free eight week challenge encourages women and girls to walk 10,000 steps or get 30 minutes of moderate exercise every day. The WOMAN Challenge begins on Mother’s Day, May 11, and ends on July 5, 2008.

How can I register to participate?

Participants will receive a tracking log (while supplies last) to record their progress throughout the eight weeks. They will also receive weekly motiva-

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•

T A K E

T H E

C H A L L E N G E !

tional e-mails and health tips to help them reach their goals. Women can choose to travel 1 of 6 different “virtual” routes across America. Team participation is highly encouraged. Form an intergenerational team with you, your mom, grandmother or daughter, encourage your co-workers to create an interoffice team or walk with your girlfriends. However you choose to take part in the WOMAN Challenge, make it fun.

Where is National Women’s Health Week celebrated?

I am happy to report we have our own local event right here in Portage.

Powerhouse Family Fitness will hold a women’s health fair with free health screenings, guest speakers, free body fat analysis, self-defense classes, with many exhibitors representing a wide range of health care fields. To date, there are only 4 events statewide! I stopped by Powerhouse Family Fitness to talk with event coordinators Shondell Gaudette and Cristi Underwood.

Cristi is a Certified Personal Trainer with over 8 years of experience in Cardio and Resistance Training, specializing in women’s personal training. She is also certified in Enhanced Fitness for Seniors, APEX – Diet & Nutrition, as well as, being the aerobic department coordinator. This lady clearly knows about physical activity for better health. I also discovered these great services are available at Powerhouse: Separate facilities for women Free Staff Trainer available at all times Childcare is available at a very reasonable rate.(Hours Vary) You receive a FREE 1 week pass by attending the May10 event.

In Recognition of National Women’s Health Week

“A Happier & Healthier You” May 10, 2008 Guest Professionals: Plastic Surgery of Kalamazoo Skin Care, State Farm, Oscar Pasada, Chiropractor, Kay Klintworth, R.N. What: “A Happier & Healthier You” Women’s Health Fair is offering free health screenings, nutrition advice, self defense classes, free body fat analysis, free diabetes testing, exhibitors and more.

When: Saturday - May 10, 2008 beginning at 9:00 am until 1:00 pm.

Where: Powerhouse Family Fitness at 6051 Constitution Blvd. Portage.

Sponsored by: Powerhouse Family Fitness in Partnership with Imperial Beverage, Biggby Coffee, Core Chiropractic Studio and Wellness Center, American Diabetes Association., Main Street Pub and more.

Contact information for this event: Name: Shondell Gaudette or Christie Underwood Phone: 269-329-9000 Email: shondell@powerhouseportage.com

More information about this event can be found at www.powerhouseportage.com For information about participating in this and other National Women’s Health Week activities, visit the National Women’s Health Week Web site at www.womenshealth.gov/whw or call (800)-994-9662 (TTY: (888) 220-5446).

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Exercise: The Benefits Are Skin Deep

Walk your way to radiant skin.

by Kerri Reinbold

Set your desire for a hard body aside and focus instead on the less obvious side of exercise benefits seen only on the surface. You already know that exercise positively impacts organs such as the brain, heart and lungs.

But don’t overlook the fact that routine exercise may also have a profound effect on the largest organ of your body: the skin. Let’s take a closer look at the surprising beauty benefits of exercise; those that are merely skin deep.

H2O for a youthful glow.

S-t-r-e-t-c-h away the stress.

Ever notice how a deep, feline stretch makes you feel more relaxed? Take it from yoga enthusiasts that flexibility and youth go hand in hand. Stretching, whether in the form of yoga or simply as a pre- and postworkout regimen, makes your body limber and your skin supple. Stretching also makes you less prone to injury, more active in old age, better able to manage stress, and more apt to maintain a fitness routine that is life long and rewarding (all the while discouraging the aging process). So give your skin and bones the benefit of a good stretch and feel the stress begin to melt away. Then be ready for skin that simply glows.

Increased blood circulation promotes healthy looking skin. So if you enjoy walking, running, swimming, bicycling, or any other heart pumping activity, you’ll get a good cardiovascular workout and a better complexion. That’s because as your heart rate increases, it improves the efficiency in which blood circulates throughout your body, thus nutrients are absorbed and waste gets carried away more efficiently. Also, the cells in your body will utilize oxygen more efficiently, leaving your skin clear, radiant and more youthful in appearance.

Even moderate exercise as little as three times a week can improve energy levels at the cellular level, the place where dreaded aging occurs.

The more you exercise the thirstier you get; and women who exercise regularly tend to drink more water. But adequate hydration is not only crucial to maintaining an exercise routine; it has a direct effect on the appearance of your skin cells.

An adequately hydrated skin cell is both plumper in appearance and less prone to inflammation, the enemy of a highly coveted youthful glow. Is it any wonder that the Fountain of Youth was said to be flowing with water?

Kerri Reinbold, RN, BSN, enjoys long walks with her husband, twin boys and Golden Retriever. She is learning to love always what she sees in the mirror.

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t o H ff Stu Home Floral & Gift Boutique Custom Florals To Reflect Your Personal Style Hours: M - F 10 - 6 Sat. 10 - 4

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269-365-9855 Local artists along with national & international designers working in jewelry, fiber, glass, pottery. Truly unique gifts with an artistic edge Gallery Shop Kalamazoo Institute of Arts 314 South Park St Kalamazoo MI 49007 269-349-7775 Hours Tues-Sat. 10-5, Sun 12-5 Closed Mondays

Win Your Own Copy of Amy Knapp’s Family Organizer

Give your style and instant dos of ultra-hip, ultrahappy with fresh new Tepper Jackson bags. With kisses of tangerine, hot-pink, chocolate brown and lime green, these tempting totes put a new twist on old favorites. Now at the Mole Hole The Mole Hole 5226 Westnedge Ave. (across from Meijer) Portage 344-9000 M-F 9:30 - 8:00 Sat 9:30 - 5:00 Sun 12:00 - 5:00

The 1st 50 women to write in and tell us what you like best about Women’s LifeStyle will receive a free Amy Knapp’s Family Organizer.

Be Sure To Reference “Free Organizer” in your correspondence. emails: wlskazoo@provide.net Mail: P.O. Box 2284 Portage, MI 49081-2284 Hurry Contest Ends 5/31/08

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Career Connections

Resumes

That Get Results

hether you’re a stay at home mom or climbing the corporate ladder, having a current, organized and professional resume on hand is always a smart idea. You never know when the opportunity will present itself for a business venture, group presentation, job opening, or to take part in a church group or non-profit organization. Whatever the occasion, success begins with a resume that separates you from the masses, defines who you are and most importantly – gets results.

W

When someone asks, “What do you do?”, we often refer to our career background regardless of our current employment situation. Although the need for expressing our skills, abilities and experience often stems from our professionally driven society, it is emotionally fulfilling to share what we have accomplished, what we enjoy doing and what skills we have to offer. A successful resume should also be viewed as this exchange of information, but in a concise written format. For many, compiling such a document often becomes a challenge and they may be tempted to utilize templates or mimic standard samples. But by breaking down the question What do you do? a little more specifically, and then looking at the resume from a few different perspectives, one can easily create and polish a professional document that will get results.

What do you do?

Begin your resume by creating a list of the following potential components of your resume.

Skills. Outline your demonstrable skill sets such as typing, computer or foreign language abilities.

Also include soft skills such as the ability to work independently, time management and organization.

Although soft skills are often reserved for cover letters and interviews, there are golden opportunities to utilize these within your resume, especially when you can prove how these skills were put to the greater good of a project, or the overall mission of an organization.

Experience. Define all paid or unpaid experiences that demonstrate your ability to get results, or that will transfer to a new career challenge. Always quantify when possible, showing how your efforts produced measurable results. Keep in mind that volunteer and hobby work can also be included when presented in a career-related format.

Education. List all relevant formal education, degrees, specific coursework if you didn’t graduate and any professional development, certifications, industry-related or informal training you have successfully completed.

Professional Associations, Volunteer Contributions and Other Career-Related Activities. This is your opportunity to think outside the box and account for all types of activities

By Kimberly Monaghan

that would make a positive impact on a decision maker.

How should your resume be presented?

Determine if you have met your objectives by looking at your resume draft from the following perspectives. By doing so, you will have a clearer idea of how it should be laid out and what content should be utilized or best left for the interview.

Content and Construct. Be selective and don’t include unrelated information. If you have various objectives, you might consider creating more than one resume, and then pick and choose the appropriate items from your list to include on each one.

Additionally, grab the reader’s attention by putting relevant information at the top of the page and keep their interest peaked by closing with informative impact.

Aesthetics. Consider the length, style, font, spelling and overall aesthetics from a decision maker’s perspective. It’s a good idea to ask someone to give you their impression of your final draft.

Portrait and Approach. With the final draft in hand ask yourself the following questions: What makes you stand out from the competition?

Does your resume clearly reflect your abilities, as well as your personality? Most importantly, if you received this resume would you hire this person?

Whenever you are developing a resume or any part of your career portfolio, keep in mind that you are simply speaking about your abilities and achievements in written format rather than in person. If it helps, say it out loud first, and then write it down.

Your voice, passion and desire to succeed will come through and not only will you communicate how you stand apart from the competition, you’ll also develop a resume that gets results.

Kimberly Monaghan is a Certified Professional Resume Writer, freelance copywriter and owner of Career Connections - a career consulting firm. For more information visit resumes-writer.com or call (614) 256-2072.

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Easy to prepare recipes with a touch of

Pizzazz courtesy of Athens

Spanakopita Makes 40 small triangles 1 10-ounce package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry 1/2 cup minced scallions, minced 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley 1/2 cup minced fresh dill 1/2 cup crumbled Feta cheese 4 ounces cream cheese, softened 4 ounces farmer (or cottage) cheese 2 tablespoons grated Kefalotyri (or Parmesan) cheese, grated 2 eggs Salt and pepper to taste 40 sheets Athens fillo dough, thawed 1/2 cup butter, melted In food processor, combine spinach with scallions, parsley, dill, cheeses, eggs, salt and pepper. Process until smooth. Prepare small fillo triangles according to directions for triangles. Fill each triangle with one teaspoon of spinach mixture. Brush outside of triangles with butter. Place seam side down on ungreased cookie sheet.

Bake in preheated 350ºF oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown and puffed. Serve hot.

Smoked Chicken in Fillo Makes 16 rolls 2 tablespoons olive oil 1/2 cup onions, minced 2 cups shiitake mushrooms, chopped with stems removed 2 cups smoked or roasted chicken meat, minced 1/3 cup red bell peppers, minced 1-1/4 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded 1/4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley 1/4 cup cut fresh chives, minced 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger Salt and pepper to taste 40 sheets Athens fillo dough (9” x 14”), thawed 1/2 cup butter, melted In sauté pan, heat oil and sauté onions until translucent. Add mushrooms and sauté until soft. Cool completely. Mix with remaining ingredients. Season with salt and pepper.

Prepare 16 small strudel rolls according to directions for rolls and strudels. Brush outside with butter and place seam side down on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake in preheated 350ºF oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown.

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Serve hot with Apple-Plum Cream and Fresh Zucchini Relish (see recipes on right).

APPLE-PLUM CREAM 1 1 2 1 2 1

cup non-fat yogurt tablespoon lowfat mayonnaise teaspoons minced fresh ginger finely grated lemon peel tablespoons chopped fresh parsley Granny Smith apple, peeled and grated 1 plum, minced Line a fine sieve with coffee filter, cheesecloth or paper towel. Place over small bowl. Fill with yogurt and allow to drain for 2 hours. Discard liquid. Combine with remaining ingredients. Chill 1 hour.

Spoon onto plate.

FRESH ZUCCHINI RELISH 3 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic 4 cups zucchini, julienned Salt and pepper to taste Heat oil and garlic over low heat for 2 minutes. Add zucchini and warm thoroughly. Season with salt and pepper.

Sprinkle with pecans. Spoon onto plate.

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Passion Fruit Napoleon 6 Servings 1 cup passion fruit purée (or 2/3 cup orange juice concentrate mixed with 1/3 cup water) 2 eggs 5 egg yolks 1 cup sugar 1 tablespoon finely grated orange peel 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into 1/2" cubes 18 sheets Athens fillo dough (9" x 14"), thawed 1/4 cup butter, melted 2 kiwis, peeled and sliced 1/4" rounds 2 bananas, sliced 1/4" on diagonal Powdered sugar to dust Raspberries and mint leaves for garnish In top of double boiler, over hot water, whisk passion fruit purée, eggs, yolks, sugar and orange peel together. Stir mixture until thickened, for about 25 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in butter.

Prepare 18 fillo Napoleon circles. Layer 6 sheets of fillo and stack, buttering each sheet. Using a 4" round fluted pastry cutter, cut circles from the fillo stacks. Place the circles on greased baking sheet and cover with wax paper. Place another baking sheet on top. This will prevent the fillo from curling up. Bake in preheated 350ºF oven for 5 to 7 minutes or until golden brown. Cool.

Place banana slice on fillo round, and pipe passion fruit cream on top using a pastry bag. Top with another fillo round and kiwi slices, more passion fruit cream and finally with a third fillo round. Dust with powdered sugar. Garnish with mint and berries.

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I n t e r i o r

I d e a s

Fashion for the Home is in Full Bloom courtesy ARA Content

F

ashion and home decor trends are so closely aligned now that we can add a favorite new look or color scheme to both our wardrobes and our homes at the same time. One day you're shopping for handbags in the hottest color and the next day you find yourself reaching for pillows in a matching shade.

If you're gearing up to decorate, fashion is where to look for trends that also have staying power at home including flowers in full bloom, pink and neutrals with metallic and pearl accents.

Photo courtesy of Anna French.

Flowers are springing up everywhere. At the spring 2008 Paris and New York runway shows, lively tosses of oversize flowers were splashed across dresses for day and evening, coats, handbags, even shoes. Consider transforming plain walls into meadows of color or single blooms with wallpaper, murals or paint for a breath of fresh air in your home.

Pink has found new acceptance both in Paris fashion and in the home, where it boldly gives rooms an updated infusion of color.

Photo courtesy of York Wallcoverings.

Pink is all grown up and can go boldly where it hasn't before in the home. Wallpapers of whisper-soft pink embellished with glass beads, bold damasks in black and fuchsia, and flamingo pink saturated stripes are giving rooms an elegantly updated infusion of color that's fresh and inspired.

Muted hues appear both on Paris runways and on the wall, where they lend a sense of timeless glamour.

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Long a fashion and decorating staple, neutrals have never before shone as brightly as they do now. Accented with luminescent pearl tones, metallic overlays and shimmering embellishments, these otherwise muted hues appeared on runways as lacy suits of soft gold thread and soft sequins scattered on day dresses. In the home patterns of understated taupe and cream are infused with pearlized inks for a look of continual candlelight, while copper and distressed silver accents lend rooms a sense of timeless glamour and a quiet roar of elegant style.

Bohemian looks in all their embellished glory have been among the most enduring trends in fashion for several seasons and are still going strong. Not defined by any one particular style, bohemian blends together different cultures and eras to create an intriguing mosaic of patterns. Whether it's an embroidered jacket or fabrics inspired by Moroccan tiles and Indian paisleys, it's about easy living, mixing and matching, and an "anything goes" attitude of foolproof dressing and decorating.

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Wo m e n ’ s

H e a l t h

Should I Get an Epidural?

Pa i n M a n a g e m e n t f o r Va g i n a l D e l i v e r y

By Dr. Robyn Hubbard, MD

F

or many women, labor is the most painful experience they’ve had or ever will have. Before considering pain management options, let’s look at the three stages of labor:

The first stage is the dilation of the cervix (the opening of the uterus), which includes the latent phase, characterized by slower dilation (opening) and effacement (thinning) of the cervix. This usually lasts until three or four centimeters of dilation.

This is followed by the active phase, characterized by faster dilation and descent (dropping) of the baby’s head. The second stage is actually pushing the baby out, followed by the third stage, the delivery of the placenta.

Pain management in latent labor is simple.

Relaxation techniques, such as walking, sitting on a birthing ball, rocking in a rocking chair, yoga-like breathing, showering or sitting in a whirlpool tub often help you through this phase. (By the way, women who exercise regularly are in better shape and handle the stress of labor better than those who don’t.)

During active labor, you may choose to manage the pain with medication. If you choose to use pain medication in the active labor (usually about 4-5 centimeters of dilation) stage, the most popular option is an epidural.

An epidural is administered by an anesthesiologist by putting a thin catheter (hollow tube) through a needle in the lower back. The needle is then removed and the catheter is taped in place. It is then hooked up to an infusion of pain medication that is delivered right to the epidural space that surrounds the lower spinal nerves.

This numbs the belly and lower body to significantly reduce the pain of labor. Some women get total relief of labor pains, while some will still have some sensation. Almost all women will still feel pressure as the head is delivering; even epidurals often cannot dull those pressure fibers.

(If a woman does not have an epidural, then a pudendal block can sometimes help offer relief for the burning feeling at the opening of the birth canal felt as the head is delivering. A pudendal is an injection of numbing medication such as lidocaine near the pudendal nerve that runs along both sides of the vagina.)

Some women fear choosing pain medication because they feel it diminishes the “natural” labor experience. Actually “natural” labor is not a medical term, but a phrase used by the lay public with varying definitions. It can refer to a vaginal delivery rather than a Cesarean section. Others refer to natural labor as going through labor and delivery without any pain medicine. All deliveries are natural; can you think of anything more natural than giving birth to another living being? Whether or not you choose to use pain medication, you can’t fail or diminish the birthing experience; it’s simply an option that a majority of women choose.

Epidurals: Fact or Myth? ,

• Epidurals use big needles and can cause you to be paralyzed – Myth. Epidurals use skinny needles that are long enough to reach the epidural space in your back. You cannot be paralyzed from an epidural because the needle is placed well below the level of the spinal cord.

• Epidurals are painful – Myth, most women feel that the epidural is minimally uncomfortable compared to the contractions that they are feeling.

• Epidurals increase the chance of needing a Cesarean section – Myth. This has not been shown in studies; although the rates of vacuum or forceps assisted vaginal deliveries are slightly higher to those with epidurals.

,

For more information: American Society of Anesthesiologists at asahq.org/patienteducation childbirth.org/articles/labor/painrelief Doulas of North America at dona.org/FindingABirthDoula

• Epidurals can slow down labor – Fact. They can also lead to longer pushing in the second stage.

• Epidurals are not safe for the baby – Myth.

Epidurals actually use medication right where it is needed, at the nerves going to the mother’s belly and legs. Very little medication is absorbed and passed to the baby.

• Not every mother in labor is a candidate for an epidural – Fact. Some medical conditions make epidurals risky, especially those that affect platelets or blood clotting. Some women who have had previous back surgery are not able to get epidurals.

• It is important to get your epidural in the right “window” or you will miss the chance – Fact and

Myth. While it’s fact that some women are too early in labor, and some women arrive too late to get an epidural, most women are able to get an epidural if they want one. Remember, once an anesthesiologist starts the process, it takes 20-30 minutes before the medication takes effect.

Therefore, if a woman arrives completely dilated and is ready to push, sometimes an epidural won’t help in time.

• My husband, family or friends don’t want me to get an epidural so I should try to avoid it – Myth. While I believe that close family support is crucial to bringing a new baby into the world; a woman should have the complete freedom to choose what she needs for medical care, including pain relief at any time.

Robyn Hubbard, MD is a practicing obstetrician and gynecologist with the practice Grand Rapids Women’s Health. She has three children: 12-year-old Hailey, and 9-year-old twins, Christopher and Allison.

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Calendar events

of

It’s easy to get listed in our Events Calendar. Our deadline is the 15th of the month prior to publication. Email us at .

Please type Calendar in the subject line. Or you may mail your info to P.O. Box 2284, Portage MI 49081-2284 May 1 The Gilmore KeyBoard Festival 9:30am - Master Class - Christopher Taylor 12:00pm Trudy Pitts with Mr. C - Noon Series (Battle Creek) 12:00pm Brian Brill & David Barrett - Noon Series (Kalamazoo) 2:30pm Pre-Concert Lecture: Christopher Taylor Concert 3:30pm Christopher Taylor 7:30pm -Leon Fleisher with Katherine Jacobson Fleisher (Grand Rapids) May 1 Kazoo Books Web Designer Sharon Fredesna – Boosting Marketing & Perceptions Reservations Required 6:30 p.m.

May 2 The Gilmore KeyBoard Festival 9:30am - Master Class - Leon Fleisher 12:00pm - Seeley & Baldori - Noon Series (Battle Creek) 12:00pm -Trudy Pitts with Mr. C - Noon Series (Kalamazoo) 1:30pm -Fringe - David Owen Norris 5:30pm - Brian Brill & David Barrett - Afterwork Series (St Joseph) 7:00pm - Jazz Club - Brad Mehldau Trio 7:00pm - Pre-Concert Lecture: Fest Chamber Orchestra Concert 8:00pm -Gilmore Festival Chamber Orchestra (Kalamazoo) 9:30pm - Jazz Club - Brad Mehldau Trio May 3 The Gilmore KeyBoard Festival 9:30am - Master Class - Gilbert Kalish 3:30pm - David Owen Norris & Monica Huggett 7:30pm - Battle Creek Symphony Orchestra with Andrew von Oeyen 8:00pm - Gilmore Festival Chamber Orchestra (Grand Rapids) 8:00pm - AN EVENING WITH RICKY SKAGGS & BRUCE HORNSBY with Kentucky Thunder May 4 The Gilmore KeyBoard Festival 1:00pm- Naomi Kudo, 2008 Gilmore Young Artist (Battle Creek) 1:30pm - Adam Golka, 2008 Gilmore Young Artist (St. Joseph) 3:00pm - Pre-Concert Lecture: Mitsuko Uchida Concert 4:00pm- Mitsuko Uchida 4:00pm - Jazz Club Mulgrew Miller with Wingspan 7:00pm -Jazz Club - Mulgrew Miller with Wingspan May 4 Kalamazoo Nature Center Green Living Series: Purple Loosestrife Indoor lecture at 2 pm May 5 The Gilmore KeyBoard Festival 9:30am - Master Class - David Owen Norris 9:30am - Master Class - Mulgrew Miller 12:00pm - Film #1 - Glenn Gould Hereafter 2:30pm - PreConcert Lecture: Lori Sims & Yu-Lien The Concert 3:30pm Lori Sims & Yu-Lien The 7:00pm- Gilmore for Kids with Alpin Hong – Portage 8:00pm - Concertante with Jeremy Denk May 6 The Gilmore KeyBoard Festival 9:30am - Master Class - Jeremy Denk 12:00pm- Film #2 Ballade for Edvard Grieg and Two Hands - Leon Fleisher 1:30pm- Fringe - Jeremy Denk 7:00pm-Gilmore for Kids with Alpin Hong – Allegan 8:00pm-Stephen Hough

May 7 The Gilmore KeyBoard Festival 9:30am - Master Class - Stephen Hough 12:00pm - Film #3 - The Art of Piano: Great Pianists of the 20th Century 7:00pmGilmore for Kids with Alpin Hong - Battle Creek 8:00pmMarc-AndrÈ Hamelin May 7 Portage District Library Alzheimer’s Hope Dinner Location: Portage Senior Center.

6:00PM - 8:30 PM Donation of $5 to $20 for the dinner.

Register at 329-4555 by May 1.. Cost: $5.00 May 7 Portage District Library Genealogy on the Web 6:30-8:00 pm Free May 8 The Gilmore KeyBoard Festival 9:30am - Master Class - AndrÈ Watts 12:00pm-Film #4 Note By Note: The Making of Steinway L1037 1:30pm Fringe - Marc-AndrÈ Hamelin7:00pm- Gilmore for Kids with Alpin Hong - Benton Harbor 7:30pm-Adam Golka, 2008 Gilmore Young Artist (Three Rivers) May 8 – 10 Kalamazoo Institute of Arts International Jewelry Show – Featuring Maureen Perdomo – Handcrafted Polish Amber & Mexican Sterling Silver 5/8 12am-5pm 5/9 10am-7pm 5/10 10 am – 4:30 pm May 8 Kazoo Books Poetry Reading and Craft Talke Featuring Elizabeth Kerlikowski, Daneen Wardrop & Mark Turcotte 6 pm May 8 Kalamazoo Regional Chamber of Commerce Afterhours Event – Consumers Credit Union –West Main 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm May 8 Portage District Library What Caregivers Need to know A 2004 study by the National Alliance for Caregiving (NAC) and AARP. 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM May 9 The Gilmore KeyBoard Festival 9:30am - Master Class - Lori Sims 12:00pm-Film #5 Memories of John Browning - The Rosina Lhevinne Legacy Continues 1:30pm - Fringe - Bruce Brubaker 7:00pm- Jazz Club - Pablo Ziegler Trio for New Tango 8:00pm- Dubravka Tomsic 8:00pm- Grand Rapids Symphony - AndrÈ Watts 9:30pm-Jazz Club - Pablo Ziegler Trio for New Tango May 9 Webster's Lounge - Radisson Plaza Lana Hawkins Jazz Quartet - Jazz, Pop Standards & Classic 8:30-11:30 May 9 - June 10 Bluewater Gallery Feather, Flames & Simple Gifts Artist's Reception: 5/9 5 - 9 pm Featuring Nancy Stroupe & Mary Farrington

May 9 - May 18 Kalamazoo Civic Theatre HOLES Adapted from the award-winning book by Louis Sachar, this finely written play focuses on Stanley Yelnats, a troubled kid who is sent to a boys’ detention center, Camp Green Lake.

May 6 Kalamazoo Public Library Silent Spring - nonfiction book discussion on the first Tue.of the month. 7:00-8:30 PM

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Greater Kalamazoo

May 9 Kalamazoo Nature Center Birds and Breakfast Registration Indoor/outdoor hike for Adults, 14+ from 8 - 10:30 a.m. Wildflower Folklore Outdoor walk for adults & older children 3:30-5 p.m May 9 Portage District Library Mini Workshop for Seniors Topics Include: Reverse Mortgages - Making an Informed Decision, “Ask the Ombudsman” - life, care, and policies in licensed long-term care facilities & Community Resources Register beginning 4/ 25th Starts 8:30 a.m

May 9 Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Art & All That Jazz – Music: Duffield/Caron Project Art: The Figure Revealed - Free May 10 Webster's Lounge - Radisson Plaza Lana Hawkins Jazz Quartet - Jazz, Pop Standards & Classic 8:30-11:30 May 10 The Gilmore KeyBoard Festival 9:30am - Master Class - Bruce Brubaker 3:30pm- Adam Golka, 2008 Gilmore Young Artist 7:00pm- Pre-Concert Lecture: Festival Gala 8:00pm -Gala - Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra - Ingrid Fliter 8:00pm- Grand Rapids Symphony AndrÈ Watts May 10 Kalamazoo Nature Center Bird Hike Outdoor for adults & older children, rain or shine 8-10 am Bird Olympics Activities & crafts for kids 1-3 pm May 11 The Gilmore KeyBoard Festival 2:00pm- Cyrus Chestnut & Eric Reed Jazz/Lunch at 12:30 (Grand Rapids) 3:00pm- Adam Golka, 2008 Gilmore Young Artist (Vicksburg) 3:30pm -Southwest Michigan Symphony Orchestra with Naomi Kudo, 2008 Gilmore Young Artist (Benton Harbor) 4:00pm -Jazz Club - Kurt Elling 7:00pm-Jazz Club - Kurt Elling May 11 Kalamazoo Nature Center Golf Cart Tour: Wildflowers *Fee: $5/participant Happy Mother’s Day! Let us be your chauffer and guide to the wildflowers of the Pioneer Woods. A great opportunity for anyone with limited mobility. 1 pm OR 3pm May 12 The Gilmore KeyBoard Festival 12:00pm- Master Class - Kurt Elling & Laurence Hobgood May 12 Kalamazoo Regional Chamber of Commerce Bike to Work Event 7:30 am - 9:00 am May 13 The Gilmore KeyBoard Festival 7:00pm- Pre-Concert Lecture: Festival Encore Concert 8:00pm- Festival Encore - Mitsuko Uchida & Friends May 13 Kalamazoo Network The Kalamazoo Network Bi-Monthly Meeting, Fetzer Center, WMU. Honoring Lori Moore, WKZO Radio, the winner of our Glass Ceiling Award. Register online at kalamazoonetwork.org or call 269-343-7865. Event starts at 5:15 pm Dinner 6:00 pm

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May 13 Portage District Library Mother’s / Father’s Day Luncheon The Portage Senior Center will honor all of you hard-working moms and dads at this special luncheon, which will include a tasty meal, entertainment, and door prizes! Stop by the PSC to register. Tuesday, May 13, 11:45 a.m., Cost $1.00 Location: Portage Senior Center May 13 KPL Oshtemo Branch Library Mountains beyond Mountains by Tracy Kidder, Discuss best-sellers and little known gems with other book lovers in a supercasual setting. 1 pm May 13 Kalamazoo Nature Center Small Wonders: Birds Parent led activities for ages 0-5Explore nature with your child 9:30-11:30 am May 15 Air Zoo Snoopy as the World War I Flying Ace, opening on May 15 at the Air Zoo presents Charles M. Schulz’s lovable beagle, Snoopy.

The exhibit showcases 40 of Snoopy’s most exciting adventures.

May 16 – May 18 Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra League Gull Lake Island Symphony of Homes Tourwill be open to public touring on Fri. 5/16 11am–5 pm; Sat.5/17 11am–5 pm; & Sun.5/18, 1 pm-5 pm Advance ticket sales available at many local businesses.

May 16 Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra League Kellogg Manor House Open House luncheon buffet 11 am & 12 pm Reservations are required May 12th(269) 671-2400, May 16 Portage District Library After House Coffee House - A jazz ensemble in the classic piano trio format of piano, acoustic bass and drums, featuring students from Western Michigan University’s internationally acclaimed jazz program. For seniors 55 & older May 17 Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra League Gilmore Car Museum will offer tour guests reduced museum ticket prices and welcome them to their George and Sally’s Blue Moon Diner from 11 a.m. 4 p.m. No reservations are needed.

May 17 Portage District Library Bird Watching -The month of May is an ideal time for observing birds in Michigan.

Learn to identify and observe a wide variety of resident and migrating birds. Bring binoculars.7:00 a.m. Free Meets at the Portage Senior Center May 17 Air Zoo Air ZooBeagle Meet & Greet, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. By BREW (Beagle Rescue Education and Welfare) Dog Agility Demonstration by Taking the Lead Dog Training. at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., & 3 p.m.

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May 18 Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra League Gull Lake Country Club - Luncheon Buffet from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Reservations are required (269) 629-9714.

May 18 Kalamazoo Nature Center Bluebird Walk Outdoor trail walk with activities at 2 pm May 21 Kalamazoo Regional Chamber of Commerce Business & Technology Expo 9:00 am - 3:00 pm Radisson Plaza Hotel & Suites 100 W. Michigan Ave May 21 Portage District Library Fiction Writers Group The Fiction Writers Group is a monthly group created to help writers meet fellow writers, workshop each other’s work, discuss and encourage writing and have fun in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Third Wednesday evening of the month 6:00 - 8:30 p.m. For more information, please call Kate Rizor at 271-2948 or contact her website: www.katerizor.com May 21 Portage District Library Open for Discussion - Prodigal Summer by Kingsolver, 7:00-8:00 May 23 Webster's Lounge - Radisson Plaza Lana Hawkins Jazz Quartet - Jazz, Pop Standards & Classic 8:30-11:30 May 24 Webster's Lounge - Radisson Plaza aLana Hawkins Jazz Quartet - Jazz, Pop Standards & Classic 8:30-11:30

May 24 Air Zoo Read to a Dog Program, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. – With Kalamazoo County Humane Society Pet Therapy Program dog.

Aviation in World War I –a fascinating look at the world of aviation in World War I. May 25 Kalamazoo Nature Center Spring Comes to the Barn! Hands-on, interactive family activities. 2 pm May 27 Kalamazoo Nature Center Boomers and Beyond: Nature Photography Adults, ages 55+, Interactive, Outdoor, Social Bring your camera or borrow one of ours. Bring your lunch! 11 am - 12:30 pm May 28 Kazoo Books Lynn Houghton, History Professor at WMU & Co-Author of Kalamazoo Lost & Found discusses the history of our area & her book. 3 pm May 31 Air Zoo Super Science Saturday, 30-minute presentations occurring at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. – featuring chromatography.

Back2theWind Sport Kite Demonstrations, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Kids will have the chance to make and fly their own kites.

PICK UP OUR MAGAZINE AT THESE FINE BUSINESSES & MANY MORE! Hardings Friendly Markets D&W Fresh Markets Felpausch Food Centers AUGUSTA A Food Affair GALESBURG

Union Cabaret & Grill, The Water Street Coffee Joints Western Michigan University

Grant’s Antique Market Images Consignment

OTSEGO Otsego Antiques Mall

Koffee Klutch

PLAINWELL Brandy’s Boutique

KALAMAZOO Acorn Clothing Store Alamo Depot Anytime Fitness Chamber of Commerce Cool Beans Café Copy Cup Felicity Salon Full City Cafe Irving’s Market & Deli Kalamazoo Humane Society Kazoopy’s Eatery Kitchen Shop Lana’s Boutique Masterpiece Memories Merle Norman Studio & Hair Salon

Messamore Chiropractic Michigan News Agency North Eleven Oakwood Bistro Planet Beach Plastic Surgery of Kalamazoo Sawall Health Foods Sticks & Stones Tot to Teen Village

PORTAGE Barstools & More Fit Zone Full City Café Gift Loft Mole Hole Planet Beach Power House Gym/Family Fitness Romence Gardens Super Suppers Third Coast Futons & Furniture Z Café RICHLAND Arian’s Coffee Ice Cream Etc. Beadin’ Path Blue Water Gallery Chaubrei Gardens Gull Lake Chiropractic SCHOOLCRAFT Big Island Quilt Co. Grand Central Plaza

MANY ADDITIONAL BEAUTY SALONS COFFEE SHOPS, PHYSICIANS OFFICES AND LOCAL LIBRARIES

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• April 2008

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By Alexandra Fix Every Garden Is a Story Stories, Crafts, and Comforts

By Susannah Seton Conari Press, 2007, $16.95

Conversation Starter:

If there’s a gardener on your Mother’s Day list, she’ll find inspiration in this lovely gift book.

Susannah Seton shares stories, reflections and reminiscences of her gardening moments and mentors. Interspersed within the essays are nature quotes, unique recipes, flower facts and vivid garden photography. Every Garden Is a Story reminds us that the same gentle nurturing that’s good for the soil is often good for the soul as well. Within these pages are ideas for a healing garden, an evening moon garden, a lush wildflower meadow, a restored ghost garden, a hanging vegetable patch and a homegrown loofah sponge. Among the delicious back-to-nature recipes are springtime herb salad, stir-fried asparagus, rose wine and a gem called “stuffed garden” that uses the full bounty of your vegetable crop.

The Other Mother

By Gwendolen Gross Shaye Areheart Books, 2007, $23 Amanda has recently moved to the suburbs and has embarked upon motherhood. In its dreamy idyllic moments, she and her husband Aaron are ready for the experience, but as for every new parent, the experience brings its own reality. Amanda and Aaron are simultaneously exhilarated and overwhelmed. Amanda loves her career as a book editor in Manhattan and has planned all along to return to work soon after the birth. She never guessed the toll that decision would take on her mind and her heart.

Weight Watcher’s meeting one day. Disenchanted, she decides to simply eat whatever pleases her that day and discovers her own truth about food and pleasure. Berg has always been a writer who loves good food. The story of her writing success begins with her entry into magazine writing, those glorious magazines in which she also found hundreds of great new recipes. Her website and mailings always seem to include one of her favorite recipes.

Food, in its delights and disasters, plays into several of the stories in this collection.

The Day I Ate Whatever I Wanted And Other Small Acts of Liberation

By Elizabeth Berg Random House, 2008, $23 A number of years ago, at a book signing, Elizabeth Berg read a very funny excerpt of a short story in the works. I am thrilled to see that the story is finally in print as the title story of this collection. In this opening piece, a woman embarks upon an exhilarating food escapade after leaving a

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Some of the stories involve the changes in relationships as women grow older. One story centers around a woman who starts up a dating service for people over fifty. She herself takes a chance and goes looking for love and romance and adventure, only to rediscover it right where she started.

Another short story involves a funny little male anatomy conversation among the women guests at a classy black tie dinner party. In one story, a woman decides she is way too young to be stuck in the retirement community chosen by her now deceased husband. She comes up with a plan to change that situation. As the book’s subtitle suggests, these are delightfully “liberating” stories. A bit of freedom amidst the constraints of daily life becomes a common theme that links these individual pieces together.

Berg’s stories are boldly candid, often humorous, sometimes poignant and always thought-provoking. In her storytelling, she captures the wide range of emotions every woman experiences. She knows us in our vulnerable moments and lifts us up in our moments of success. She gives voice to our secret stories.

Greater Kalamazoo Edition• April 2008

Side by side to Amanda’s story is Thea’s story. Thea and her husband Caius live next door. They have a toddler, a 10-year-old son and a teenage daughter, and Thea fills her days with fulltime mothering. She set aside some dreams in her life when she made the choice to be an at-home mom and at times she wonders about that decision. She struggles with conflicting emotions as her children become more independent and seem to need her less.

Weather disaster strikes and new neighbors, Amanda and Aaron, are compelled to accept the kindness of strangers as they take emergency shelter in Thea and Caius’s home.

Thea becomes temporary nanny for Amanda’s new daughter, Malina, as Amanda returns to work. A tangled web of dependency and need begins to weave itself into the two women’s lives.

So often, women set themselves up to impossible standards in the art of mothering. Each woman, indeed each couple, makes their plans and yet life unfolds as it wishes.

Amanda, confident on the surface, struggles to find the balance she needs to work outside the home and yet give her daughter unlimited love and care. Amanda’s decision to return to the workplace rattles Thea’s confidence in her own choice to be home.

This novel is an interesting look at two women, two choices and two sets of interrelated emotions. Rather than feeding the “mommy wars,” The Other Mother lends itself to spirited conversation about the emotions underlying all parenting choices and decisions. Gwendolen Gross offers an insightful picture of both sides of the story and the balance mothers seek.

Alexandra Fix is the author of the children’s book, “All Around Michigan: Regions & Resources” (Heinemann Library). She is a librarian, registered nurse, freelance writer and an avid reader. Returning to college, one class at a time while her children were growing up, allowed her to explore her interest in literature and creative writing.

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