february 2013 herlife magazine

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HERLIFE MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2013 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM KEEPING WOMEN CONNECTED ® TARA BATTIATO DENVER BRONCOS CHEERLEADER Ways to Camouflage Them Skin flaws Timeless Gift Ideas for That Special Someone Romantic Gifts

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HERLIFE Magazine appeals to smart, sophisticated and savvy women who share a passion for living well, feeling healthy, looking fabulous, and appreciating what Denver offers. Women stay connected and current on everything Denver.

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Page 1: February 2013 HerLife magazine

HE

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IFE

MA

GA

ZIN

EF

EB

RU

ARY

2013H

ER

LIF

EM

AG

AZ

INE

.CO

M

KEEPING WOMEN CONNECTED

®

TARABATTIATODENVER BRONCOS CHEERLEADER

Ways to Camouflage ThemSkin flaws

Timeless Gift Ideas

for That Special Someone

Romantic Gifts

Page 2: February 2013 HerLife magazine

2 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

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HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 3

SC13 Ad - Herlife Magazine 8_375x10_875.indd 1 1/9/13 6:30 AM

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SUBSCRIPTIONSSubscriptions are available for $20 (for 12 issues). Please go to

www.herlifemagazine.com or mail a check made out to HERLIFE® Magazine to the above address.

HERLIFE® Magazine of Denver is operated locally by Nahesa Productions, LLC, an independently owned and operated franchisee of HERLIFE® Magazine, LLC.

To reach national headquarters, call 913-402-6994.

© 2013 by HERLIFE® Magazine. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be

obtained in writing.

HERLIFE® Magazine is owned by Nahesa Productions, LLC and is a free pub-lication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. It is available in selected specialty stores, doctor and dental offices, medical spas, hair and nail salons, tanning salons, public libraries and numerous other high traffic locations.

Please call for a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business.

We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and adver-tisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. We

welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.

Editor & Chief Linnore GonzaLes

[email protected] ext. 2

Account ExecutiveLiane Davis

[email protected] ext. 701

Account ExecutiveMicheLLe WaGer

[email protected] ext. 703

Office AdministratorKristy Wyche

[email protected] ext. 702

EditorMariLyn isaMinGer

913-402-6994

Creative DirectorashLeiGh thoMson

[email protected]

Design and ProductiontoDD GranthaM

[email protected]

Art DirectoreLana BeLL

[email protected]

Contributing AuthorschanDra BLacKWeLL, Beth BLair, ann e. Butenas, Liane Davis,

Linnore GonzaLes, KathLeen M. KrueGer, LinDa r. Price, eLizaBeth rosenBerGer,haLLie saWyer, canDi sMith, catie Watson

Contributing Photographers

LiGhtBox iMaGes PhotoGraPhy, JM Photoart

To contact HERLIFE® Magazine: 9337 Commerce Center Street #C-2

Highlands Ranch, CO 80129Phone: 303-630-0979

For Advertising call 303-630-0979

®

STAFF AND CONTACTS

Page 5: February 2013 HerLife magazine

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 5

herlife | contents

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Welcome

health

Spotlight

Beauty

inspirations

Culinary

Cravings

home and Design

Mother’s Perspective

Green living

Trendsetter

fine Things

Working Women

Spotlight

finance

home

real estate

Tie the Knot

Scene and Be Seen

contents

COVER STORYTARA BATTIATOWhat does a commercial real estate agent in Colorado do during her off time? Puts on a pair of chaps and kicks up her heels at a Broncos game, of course! for Tara Battiato, this is a very literal description of what she does when she’s not working at her real estate office.

14

There are so many child-friendly dentists that now we actually have the opposite problem...how to choose? here are some things to look for when searching for the right pediatric dentist.

24

While minor blemishes are easy to hide, others aren’t so easy, but there are options for helping scars from our child-hood or spots brought on by age fade temporarily and permanently.

12

if you simply want an over-the-top Valentine’s Day, or want to spread the love across a lifetime, here are some great ideas to celebrate the beauty of love.

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6 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

herlife | welcome

Wikipedia describes February as the second month of the year in the Julian and Gre-

gorian calendars. It is also the shortest month with only 28 days in common years

and 29 days in leap years. So what’s so special about this month? Here are some

February trivia:

February starts on the same day of the week as March and November in

common years. In leap years, it starts on the same day of the week as August. February ends on the

same day of the week as October every year and January in common years only. In leap years, it is

the only month that ends on the same weekday it begins. Having only 28 days in common years, it

is the only month of the year that can pass without a single full moon. It is also the only month of the

calendar that once every 6 years and twice every 11 years, will

have only four full 7-day weeks.

Some of the noted events in the United States in February in

addition to the known and commercialized Valentine’s Day on the

14th are the Super Bowl (first Sunday in February), Presidents’

Day (third Monday), and Groundhog Day on the 2nd. February

is also Black History Month and the month that two Presidents

celebrate their birthdays (Lincoln on the 12th and Washington on

the 22nd).

February used to only mean the second month of the year

for me but has now become a very special month. Why? Because

it is the month when HERLIFE Magazine comes back to Denver.

I am very honored, pleased and excited to share this magazine

with the Denver readers once again, and I am looking forward

to more special months in the year as well as numerous special

February months as we take this journey together.

HERLIFE DENVER IS BACK!

If you or someone you know

has a great story that you think

should be told, please email us

at [email protected]!

Like HERLIFE Magazine on

Facebook to stay current on

great discounts, special events

and behind-the-scenes details:

facebook.com/herlifedenver

Have an inspirational woman in your life?

Help us be green! Please share

the love and recycle when you

are done reading this issue!photo by jm photoart

Page 7: February 2013 HerLife magazine

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 7

Page 8: February 2013 HerLife magazine

herlife | health

by catie watson

8 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

A beautiful smile begins with healthy teeth and gums. Most

of us learn the fundamentals of good dental health as

children, but many adults let proper dental care fall by

the wayside. Since February is National Children’s Dental

Health Month, this is an ideal time for adults to also

“brush up” on dental care basics.

Daily Dental CareGood dental health starts with clean teeth. Brushing your teeth

thoroughly at least twice a day will remove plaque, a combination

of bacteria and food that can begin to form on teeth as soon as 20

minutes after eating. When plaque remains on the teeth, it can harden

into tartar. Both plaque and tartar are leading causes of bad tooth

decay, gum disease and bad breath.

Dentists recommend brushing with toothpaste that contains

fluoride and a toothbrush with soft bristles. Remember to brush all

the surfaces of your teeth, always applying short back and forth mo-

tions. Protect the enamel on your teeth and avoid brushing too hard

or too fast. To ensure that your brushing is effective, replace your

toothbrush every two to three months or as soon as the bristles show

signs of wear.

Flossing at least once a day is another important aspect of basic

dental care. When bacteria are allowed to build up between teeth, the

gums will form pockets that trap more bacteria. Over time, gum in-

flammation from bacteria can damage the tissue and bones that hold

teeth in place. Left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss. If

you’ve avoided dental floss because you find it difficult to use, check

your local pharmacy for floss picks and small dental brushes that may

be a better fit for your teeth.

Besides brushing and flossing, daily dental care includes eating

DENTAL CARENECESSITIES

Page 9: February 2013 HerLife magazine

a healthy diet that’s good for your teeth. Crunchy fruits and vegeta-

bles, and foods that are high in calcium, help protect tooth enamel.

Limit consumption of acidic foods such as lemons, tomatoes and cit-

rus fruit or eat them in combination with other foods to limit the effect

of acid on the teeth. Use moderation when eating candy, pastries and

other starchy and sugary foods, or avoid them altogether. Also, limit

your consumption of beverages that contain sugar.

See Your Dentist RegularlyThe best way to fight plaque buildup on your teeth and the

resulting decay is to visit your dentist every six months. Many adults

fall into the habit of avoiding the dentist until they feel pain, but twice-

yearly checkups can help avoid painful conditions. Regular cleaning

by a dentist or dental hygienist will remove plaque that can build up

even if you brush and floss daily. In addition to checking your mouth

for signs of tooth decay and gum disease, a good dentist will also

look for abnormalities in the mouth that could be signs of infectious

or chronic diseases including oral cancer. Many diseases that are

located elsewhere in the body can be spotted in the mouth.

Regular visits to your dentist will make you more comfort-

able about dental procedures. You’ll also have more opportunity to

talk with your dentist about the best toothbrush and toothpaste for

your mouth and find out whether you’re flossing correctly. You should

also let your dentist know about any medications you’re taking.

Many medications cause dry mouth, a condition that can lead to an

increase in cavities. If you’re subject to dry mouth, ask your dentist

about ways to minimize the effects on your teeth.

A Bright Smile and Fresh BreathBright, white teeth can improve any smile and boost self-con-

fidence. Unfortunately, even if you brush and floss daily, your teeth

may become stained by coffee, tea, soda or certain medications. If

you’re unhappy about dull or yellow teeth, a teeth-whitening system

may help brighten your smile. There are a wide range of over-the-

counter products for teeth whitening, as well as some high-tech pro-

cedures that can only be performed by your dentist. Over-the-counter

products are less expensive but also less effective than dental pro-

cedures. Talk to your dentist to find out if you’re a good candidate for

teeth whitening and which system will work best for your teeth.

Even the brightest smile can be spoiled by bad breath. Halitosis,

the medical term for bad breath, can be a symptom of poor dental

hygiene or other health problems. It can also be caused by certain

strong foods such as garlic and onions that are absorbed into the

bloodstream and then carried to the lungs. Toothpaste and mouth-

wash are only temporary cover-ups when this occurs. Persistent bad

breath may also be a sign of gum disease. If you brush and floss your

teeth and are still subject to bad breath, talk to your dentist about the

problem. ■

Sources: American Dental Association (mouthhealthy.org),

WebMD.com,

National Institutes of Health MedlinePlus®

website (nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus)

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 9

Even the brightest smile can be spoiled by bad breath. Halitosis, the medical term for bad breath, can be a symptom of poor dental hygiene

or other health problems. It can also be caused by certain strong foods such as garlic and onions that are

absorbed into the bloodstream and then carried to the lungs.

Page 10: February 2013 HerLife magazine

herlife | spotlight

by el izabeth rosenberger |

photography by l ightbox images photography

10 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

everyone’s wellness regime,” Cynthia added.

“In other words, we believe that massage

therapy is a necessity disguised as a luxury.

Our goal is to help people have a better qual-

ity of life through the therapeutic benefits of

massage.”

Massage therapy has been used for its

healing benefits for thousands of years. Once

only utilized by elite professionals or athletes,

it is seeing a wider range of clientele these

days. Cynthia said residents of Colorado are

active year-round, taking advantage of the

good climate and seasonal activities. “They

are mindful of their environment, and aware

of their health and wellness needs,” she

added. “They want to ensure their health and

longevity into their golden years, and spend

their money on high-quality products and

services that help maintain their wellness.

More people are turning to massage therapy

to relieve the stress of their modern lifestyles,

as treatment for medical conditions, and to

maintain their health and emotional balance.”

Mainstream acceptance of massage

therapy continues its strong growth trend.

More Americans are using massage therapy

to relieve stress and treat sore muscles. Doc-

tors are turning to massage therapy as an

adjunct to regular health practices. And even

health insurance companies are recognizing

the contribution of massage to overall health

by covering massage in their plans, includ-

ing Flexible Savings and Health Savings

Accounts.

“There are three components of our

business,” Cynthia said. “We provide profes-

sional, therapeutic massage and facials at

convenient times and affordable prices.”

All of the massage therapists who work

at Massage Envy locations have completed a

professional massage therapy program with a

certificate of completion. In addition, they are

required to meet state licensing requirements

and hold professional liability insurance.

Cynthia and Bryan Hinckley believe

that massage therapy can be a

powerful ally in one’s wellness

program. Owners of Massage

Envy Spa Southglenn and Mas-

sage Envy Englewood, they provide services

that are therapeutic and focused on health

and wellness. From customized sessions like

Deep Tissue and Sports massage, to enhance-

ments like signature Aromatherapy blends and

Murad® healthy skin facials, Massage Envy’s

professional massage therapists and estheti-

cians are trained to meet your specific needs.

Add late weeknight and weekend hours–and

more than 800 locations nationwide–and now

you have therapeutic relief when it’s most con-

venient for you. Massage Envy was founded

in 2002 with a simple vision: to bring massage

therapy out of the elite and expensive circle

and make it available to everyone.

“At our Massage Envy locations, we be-

lieve that regular massage should be part of

Massage Envy Spa

Page 11: February 2013 HerLife magazine

The Massage Envy concept is designed to provide the ultimate

in convenience to time-conscious clients. Their clinics are open 7

days, and more than 90 hours per week. Clients may reserve ap-

pointment times, or just walk in to receive a massage when they need

it. Members receive reciprocal benefits at any Massage Envy clinic

nationwide. Their low introductory rate and membership plan allows

clients to receive massages more frequently and for less than what

they would pay at most spas.

Additionally, they’ve added facial services at the Southglenn

clinic where they utilize the groundbreaking Murad® skincare line of

products. The benefits of facials are that they moisturize skin, reverse

visible signs of aging, improve skin tone and texture, alleviate redness

and sensitivity, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and reduce blemishes

and breakouts. Their professional estheticians meet all state and local

licensing requirements, and are well-trained in the Murad® products.

The Hinckleys want their clients to know that at Massage Envy,

your session is all about you.

“We customize your massage based on your individual needs,”

Cynthia shared. “There are 250 known types of massage and body-

work, with new massage modalities emerging every year.”

At Massage Envy, your massage therapist will inquire about why

you are coming in for a massage, your current physical condition and

any specific areas in which you are experiencing pain or would like

to address during your massage. Your therapist will either perform

a customized full-body massage (for general relaxation and stress

reduction), or focus on the specific parts of your body you have

requested.

Also, for the expectant mother, Cynthia said there are numerous

benefits from prenatal massage therapy. One study at the University

of Miami Miller School of Medicine suggests that massage therapy

during pregnancy may lower anxiety, decrease back and leg pain, im-

prove sleep quality and decrease levels of the stress hormone known

as norepinephrine.

But the bottom line…massage therapy should be a part of

everyone’s health regimen. “We want our clients to personally feel the

benefits of massage. By taking part in regularly scheduled self-care,

you can play a huge part in how healthy you are and how youth-

ful you’ll remain with each passing year,” Cynthia said. “And just

because massage feels like a pampering treat doesn’t mean it is any

less therapeutic. There’s no denying the research—massage is a nec-

essary piece of everyone’s health and wellness plan!” ■

Massage Envy is located at 25 convenient locations in Colorado

including Massage Envy Spa Southglenn at 7470-B South Uni-

versity Boulevard in Centennial and Massage Envy Englewood

at 3960 River Point Parkway, Suite E in Sheridan. More infor-

mation about services, hours of operation and membership can

be accessed at MassageEnvy.com/clinics/CO/Southglenn or

MassageEnvy.com/clinics/CO/Englewood. You can also like

them won Facebook or follow on Twitter through the websites.

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 11

Page 12: February 2013 HerLife magazine

herlife | beauty

12 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

by beth blair

While cleanse, moisturize and protect are common

terms associated with skincare, we can also add

“camouflage” to the list. After all, many of us spend

too much time trying to make unattractive age

spots, varicose veins, acne, scars and other skin

flaws disappear.

While minor blemishes are easy to hide, others aren’t so easy,

but there are options for helping scars from our childhood or spots

brought on by age fade temporarily and permanently. The key is to

discover our options.

Flawless Facial SkinUnfortunately, acne doesn’t stop once we graduate from adoles-

cence. In fact, sometimes our adult hormones or poor skincare rou-

tine can make us feel like we are back in junior high. Tiffany Fluhme,

CEO of Fluhme Beauty, offers advice on covering up facial blemishes.

“Makeup is a girl’s best friend for many reasons,” said Tiffany.

“Whether to help accentuate flawless natural beauty or to go all-out

glam, our makeup bag is where we turn. It’s also where we turn to

help cover skin imperfections including age spots, acne scars, etc.

Concealer is an obvious go-to when our goal is to cover unwanted

skin issues. Try your best to match your skin tone. Choosing a color

that is too light or too dark will only bring unwanted attention to the

imperfection. It is very important to be sure your skin is moisturized

prior to applying any concealer or makeup in an effort to cover and

conceal. If the skin is dry, the product will sit in acne scars, fine lines

and again, will make them appear more evident.”

In addition, she said, “Makeup primers are wonderful to apply

before your foundation and concealer. They help to smooth the skin

and imperfections including pores and scars, and give the end ap-

pearance of porcelain skin.”

That’s not all, she continued, “When it comes to concealers,

there are color correctors that will help to conceal various imperfec-

tions and color issues. The goal is to neutralize the unwanted color.”

The final step should be mineral makeup which, Tiffany said, “is

known to provide amazing, light coverage and give an overall flaw-

less look.”

Turn to the Color Wheel That’s where the Color Wheel comes in, said Dr. Michael Gold,

a board certified dermatologist/dermatologic surgeon. “In order to

properly camouflage skin discolorations, it is important to under-

HOw TO CAmOuFLAgE

AgE SpOTS,

VARICOSE VEINS

AND OTHER SKIN

FLAwS

Page 13: February 2013 HerLife magazine

stand the color wheel. All shades of imperfections have a shade that

will counteract it. Green concealer will fight redness found in acne,

acne scars, rosacea and blotchy skin. Apply lightly and evenly to

affected areas with a flat concealer brush, and then gently apply a

full-coverage cream foundation. Yellow-based concealers are best

for bluish bruises, veins and under-eye darkness. These can often be

blended over foundation once everything is set, or mixed with liquid

foundation to brighten the eye area. Lavender concealer is used to

normalize yellow-skin concerns. When applied all over the face, it

can correct sallow skin. It can also be used as a base to hide sun

spots. Just be sure to apply a matching, flesh-colored concealer to

blend everything in.”

Varicose Veins and Cellulite There are plenty of products to lather on to help with other skin

area issues. For example, Dr.’s Remedy® Enriched Instant Cover in

light, medium and deep shades is made to minimize skin tone imper-

fections from sun spots to birthmarks.

Dr. Annie Chiu, a board-certified dermatologist suggests Derm-

ablend®, which is deemed Hollywood’s all-purpose cover-up. “It can

be used to hide tattoos, varicose veins or almost any skin blemish,”

Dr. Chiu said.

Dr. Chiu added, “A light self-tanner can make cellulite look less

obvious as it takes away some of the shadowing on the skin that

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 13

highlights dimples and depressions.”

WrinklesCreases are simply a fact of life and while they may make us look

wiser, it doesn’t hurt to dull their appearance a little. That’s where

Rodial BB Venom Skin Tint slithers in. Applied as a lightly tinted mois-

turizer, it is infused with SYN®-AKE, a powerful dipeptide created to

plump skin, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and hydrate. It’s made

with SPF 15 so it counts as camouflage, protection and anti-ager

all-in-one. If you want something made for the eye area, Rodial BB

Venom EYE is ideal for targeting crow’s feet and eye puffiness.

Long-Term OptionsIf you’re hoping for a permanent solution, there are some options

depending on your flaw. “When there is a problem with skin discol-

oration or hyperpigmentation, we can use lasers and light sources to

improve it,” says Dr. Gold. “A variety of fractional lasers or Intense

Pulsed Light (IPL) help the pigment fade over time. For acne, there

are devices that can target the blemishes and reduce them, as well as

devices that improve acne scars. Rosacea lesions can be treated as

well with the IPL or the pulsed dye laser.” ■

Sources: goldskincare.com, rodial.co.uk, remedynails.com,

fluhme.com and anniechiumd.com.

Page 14: February 2013 HerLife magazine

herlife | inspirations

Page 15: February 2013 HerLife magazine

by kathleen m. krueger | photography by l ightbox images photography

hair and makeup by l indsay ambrosio of makeup madame

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 15

What does a commercial real estate agent in Colorado do

during her off time? Puts on a pair of chaps and kicks

up her heels at a Broncos game, of course!

For Tara Battiato, this is a very literal description

of what she does when she’s not working at her real

estate office. This is Tara’s fourth year as a member of the Broncos

cheerleading team, and her third year as a team captain.

Tara was born and raised in Colorado. Like many little girls, she

dreamed of being a ballerina when she grew up. Unlike many oth-

ers, Tara never let go of that dream. She pursued it. Ballet lessons,

practice and performances continued all through high school. After

graduating high school, she saw her dream move to the next level

when she was accepted to dance with Ballet Austin in Austin, Texas.

When the year with the ballet company came to a close, Tara

returned to Colorado and competed in her first tryout for the Broncos

cheerleading team. She competed against hundreds of girls, all trying

to gain one of the 34 positions available, but didn’t make it to the

finals. From there, she made the choice to attend college and chose

Boise State because of their strong competitive dance line. Although

Tara had been singularly focused on ballet most of her life, she man-

aged to win a spot on the team, and her life in dance took on a whole

new look and a much broader perspective.

Besides introducing Tara to many other dance styles, the dance

line also brought Tara into a much stronger connection with the sports

world. Tara found partnering her love of dance with the energizing

competition of the college sports world to be exhilarating. It brought a

new perspective and sense of purpose to her passion for dance. As a

member of the college dance team, she became a part of something

much bigger – she became a representative of Boise State.

After college, Tara was even more determined to gain a spot on

her home state’s NFL cheerleading team and did a second tryout for

the Broncos. She made it through to the final round, but again, didn’t

surpass the competition to gain a spot. Not wanting to let her love of

dance go unfulfilled, even for a year, Tara tried out and won a spot on

the Houston Rockets’ cheerleading team.

The third time is the charm, they always say, and that was true

for Tara. It was on her third tryout for the Broncos, in 2009, that she

finally made it into final round of 60 competitors and was selected

for the team. In the final round, the judges spend time interviewing

each of the 60 girls to determine their personality traits and skills at

interacting with the public, an important component of the role of a

Broncos cheerleader. Since then, she has made it back on the team

for three consecutive years. Each year, she has had to go through the

same process and prove herself against new competition. There are

no extra points with the judges for having been on the team the prior

year, so each dancer knows they have to keep their performance at

its very best to retain their place.

When asked about common misconceptions about what it

means to be a Broncos cheerleader, Tara has this to say: “First and

foremost, the Broncos cheerleaders are ambassadors for the team

to the community. Each dancer on the team puts in a minimum of 30

hours a year doing community service. Second, we are professional

dancers. We have two 5-hour practice sessions a week, plus our

practice on game day. Third – we are all huge football fans! We love

the sport!”

Tara has really appreciated the opportunities she has had to give

TARA

BATTIATO

Page 16: February 2013 HerLife magazine

herlife | inspirations

16 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

back to community and to men and women in uniform through her

affiliation with the Broncos. She has been involved in several Armed

Forces Entertainment tours, which take groups of two to twelve

women on the road to do interactive shows with the troops. She has

visited troops stationed in Iraq, Kuwait, Turkey, Germany and Austra-

lia, among others.

Here in Colorado, the team took a group of players and cheer-

leaders, three of each, to visit the firefighters who were fighting forest

fires around Colorado Springs. This was not an entertainment visit;

it was very low-key, just chatting with the firefighters and listening to

their stories. Their mission was simply to let the firefighters know that

people were thinking about them and appreciated the work that they

were doing. Tara gained a new respect for these men and women

and the sacrifice they make on the front line of defense against the

onslaught of flames, smoke and heat.

Every month, Tara and several others from the Broncos cheer-

leader team also serve as instructors for the Broncos junior cheer-

leader program. The day-long program has become extremely popu-

lar, with more than 650 junior cheerleaders enrolled in the program

each month.

Tara is also a team captain for the Broncos cheerleaders and

has been for the last three years. The Broncos cheerleading team

is divided into four groups, each with their own captain. Captains

are nominated and voted on by their fellow team members, so Tara

considers this role an honor, as well as a position of responsibility.

Captains serve as the spokespersons for their team in communica-

tion with the coach and provide the leadership role for their team.

Each year, one of the cheerleaders is chosen by their team mem-

bers to represent the team at the Pro Bowl in January. In 2012, the

team nominated Tara to be their Pro Bowl representative for the 2013

Pro Bowl in Hawaii. Tara got to spend one whole week of January in

that beautiful Pacific island state with cheerleaders from all the other

NFL teams.

When Tara isn’t working at her office or as a Broncos cheerlead-

er, she enjoys a pretty laid-back lifestyle. Simply chilling and hanging

out with her friends is her favorite pastime. She also enjoys running

to keep fit, but considers it more of a fun way to stay in shape rather

than a competitive sport. “I don’t expect to ever be running in a

marathon,” says Tara.

For now, Tara is simply enjoying her place on the team and all

that goes with it. What the future holds for her is yet to be deter-

mined, by next year’s tryouts and other opportunities that may

present themselves. Tara knows that her career as a Broncos cheer-

leader will eventually come to an end, but she feels that it has been

an important part of her career as a dancer. “I really love being a

cheerleader, but I know it won’t last forever,” according to Tara. “I’m

excited to find out what will be the next step in my dance career.” ■Visit the Broncos website at

www.denverbroncos.com/cheerleaders to learn more about

Tara and the Broncos Cheerleading Team.

Page 17: February 2013 HerLife magazine

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 17

Page 18: February 2013 HerLife magazine

herlife | culinary

18 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

by candi smith

VINEgAR VARIETIES

It’s hard to believe that during this rejuvenation in the

culinary arts we’re currently experiencing, one of the

mainstays of many chefs’ dishes has been around

more than 10,000 years. Vinegar (which means ‘sour

wine’ in French) came about simply enough—a

cask of wine soured into something special. For many

centuries, vinegar has been used as a beverage (by the

Romans), as a preservative (by the Babylonians), and as

medicine (by the Greeks). In more recent times, vinegar

has been used in war zones to clean wounds and pol-

ishes everything from countertops to windowpanes.

Vinegar is made by two distinct biological process-

es, both the result of the action of harmless microorgan-

isms (yeast and “Acetobacter”) that ferments sugars

(carbohydrates) into acid. The first process is called

alcoholic fermentation and occurs when yeasts change

natural sugars into alcohol under controlled conditions.

In the second process, a group of bacteria (called “Ace-

tobacter”) converts the alcohol portion to acid. This is

the acid fermentation that forms vinegar.

The Vinegar Institute conducted studies and deter-

mined that because of vinegar’s acidic nature, it’s self-

preserving, doesn’t need refrigeration and its shelf life is

almost indefinite. White distilled rarely changes in color over time, and while color

changes or the development of sediment might occur in other types of vinegars,

the product can still be used safely and without a change in flavor.

The Food and Drug Administration labels vinegars based upon their origi-

nating material and method of manufacturing (usually a twofold fermentation

Research has shown that vinegar helps kill bacteria on fruits and vegetables.

Add two tablespoons white distilled vinegar to one

pint water and use to wash fresh fruits and vegetables,

then rinse thoroughly.

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HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 19

process). Some vinegars include: balsamic, wine and grape vinegars

made from the juice of grapes; cider vinegar or apple vinegar made

from apple juice (but cider vinegar be made from other fruits such as

peaches and berries), malt vinegar made of barley malt or other cere-

als; sugar vinegar from solutions of sugar syrup or molasses; spirit

or distilled vinegar from the acetic fermentation of dilute distilled

alcohol; and rice or rice wine vinegar made from rice or a concentrate

of rice without distillation.

There are many ways to utilize the various vinegars on the

market. Balsamic is great for salad dressings, sauces and gravies,

and can also be sprinkled on cooked meats to add flavor and aroma.

Malt vinegar has a distinctive flavor that contributes to the flavor of

brewed beverages like beer. It’s also popular for pickling, and goes

well with fish and chips. Raspberry red wine vinegar has a dark red

color and delicate raspberry flavor. It’s perfect on salads or cooked

vegetables, or used as a marinade or basting sauce for meats. Red

wine vinegar can be used in salad dressings, pickling and cooked

in reductions to make sauces. Rice or rice wine vinegar is excellent

for flavoring with herbs, spices and fruits because it’s light in color

and has a clean, delicate flavor. Rice vinegar is popular because it

doesn’t significantly alter the appearance of the food. Add to stir-fry

or salads, or to liven up vegetables and fruits. White wine vinegar

is clear and pale gold, with a distinctly acidic taste, and an aroma

reminiscent of the wine from which it’s derived. It can bring out the

sweetness in strawberries and melons or add a twist to spicy salsas

and marinades. Its tart, tangy taste also reduces the need for salt.

Around the kitchen, here are some tried-and-true uses for

vinegar. For instance, when you can’t get the last bit of mayonnaise

or salad dressing out of the jar, put a little of your favorite vinegar

into it, tighten the cap and shake well. Try soaking fish in vinegar and

water before cooking it so it’s sweeter and more tender. Keep cake

icing and homemade candy from becoming too sugary by adding a

little vinegar to the ingredients before cooking. A teaspoon of white

distilled or cider vinegar added to water while you boil potatoes

will keep them white, and keep peeled potatoes from turning dark

by covering them with water and adding two teaspoons of vinegar.

Remove fruit or berry stains from your hands by cleaning them with

vinegar. Research has shown that vinegar helps kill bacteria on fruits

and vegetables. Add two tablespoons of white distilled vinegar to one

pint of water and use to wash fresh fruits and vegetables, then rinse

thoroughly. For fluffy egg whites, soak a paper towel with a couple of

tablespoons of white distilled vinegar. Wipe mixing bowl and beaters

or whisk with the vinegar-soaked paper towel, then dry with a cloth

or paper towel prior to whipping egg whites. For fluffier rice, add a

teaspoon of white distilled vinegar to boiling water before adding rice

so rice will be easier to spoon and less sticky. ■

Source: versatilevinegar.org.

Page 20: February 2013 HerLife magazine

20 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

herlife | cravings

Indulge Bistro and Wine Bar, located in the charming historic

downtown Golden, is surrounded by our beautiful Rockies,

incredible outdoor patio and inviting ambience.

Indulge Bistro and Wine Bar opened their doors May 1,

2012, and owners Peter and Delinda Fatianow are passion-

ate and energetic about their business; their enthusiasm shows

in the outstanding cuisine, friendly atmosphere, and attentive

service.

The decor inside is modern with a rustic twist, contain-

ing natural elements with beautiful wood tones. There’s a great

oval-shaped bar with comfortable seating all around as well as

high and low tabletops and booths. The lighting is fantastic with

the use of white tree branches and wine glasses. The inviting

outdoor patio will be packed at the first hint of warm weather.

The large sitting area has plenty of comfy cushions along with

small tables (or footrests) that are actually tree stumps made of

beetle-killed pine.

by l iane davis |

photography by l ightbox images photography

and from the indulge archives

BISTRO AND WINE BAR

Extensive glass wine walls throughout are an artistic statement as

well as being functional in showing Indulge Bistro and Wine Bar’s ever-

changing wine selection. It is no wonder they were chosen in OpenTa-

bles Diner Top 100 as having one of the best wine lists in 2012. If you

can’t decide which bottle or glass to order, sample one of their wine

flights. The Ron Burgundy and the Bold Blends are popular choices.

Are you a grape lover wanting to know more? Check out their wine

school. It offers a perfect evening of munching on appetizers, sipping

wine and learning outside of the classroom about wine tastes, reading

wine lists, pairings and much, much more.

This is not your typical wine bar that just serves appetizers. Indulge

Bistro and Wine Bar serves up a full menu including artisan flatbread

pizzas, meat and cheese plates, Kobe burgers, soups, salads, steaks,

fish and pasta. I started with the Indulge Salad-- simple yet flavorful.

The Gnocchi Piedmontese was perfect comfort food for the chilly day

outside, potato gnocchi dumplings blanketed in mouth-watering garlic,

truffle oil, and sautéed mushrooms topped with a perfectly lightly-

indulge

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HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 21

Page 22: February 2013 HerLife magazine

22 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

Moving to Colorado in 2007, Liane has been enjoying the Colorado culinary scene ever since. Liane has a passion for cooking, entertaining and enjoying all the activities Colorado offers, especially when she is spending time with her family. She writes the “A taste of...’” segment in The Castle Pines Connection newspaper and other featured stories. She is a graduate of the University of Arizona with a BA in Communication and received her MBA from the University of Phoenix. Liane lives in Parker with her husband, Scott, two young boys, Carson and Tyler and their Rhodesian Ridgeback, Catcher.

breaded free range chicken breast.

On my next many visits, I plan to indulge myself

with items on their menu that I have not tried yet, but

which have come highly recommended. I’ll start with the

Count Stroganoff Meatballs, roasted garlic meatballs,

crème fraiche sautéed mushrooms and fresh chives.

Then I’ll move onto Le French Burger, featuring an

egg, bacon and luscious béarnaise sauce with a side of

garlic fries, and the John Wayne Artisan Flatbread Pizza

topped with filet mignon, caramelized onion and gorgon-

zola, all the while sipping my tasty flights of wine.

Advancing into dessert, I’d try the Croissant Bread

Pudding (I am not normally a big fan of any bread pud-

ding) with flaky croissants, Grand Marnier, chocolate and

raisins, finished with a white chocolate and raspberry

sauce. I don’t think I could resist trying it. The Crème

Brulee and Key Lime Pie I cannot pass up as they are

two of my favorites as well as the Chocolate Fondue.

Happy hour is daily, with an assortment of wine,

cocktails, martinis, beer and flavorsome bites to choose.

Among the offerings are Ahi Tuna Guacamole, Chipo-

tle Pork Tostadas, Fried Pickles, Mac and Cheese a la

Indulge, Mahi Tacos, and a selection of their favorite

Artisan Flatbread Pizzas. Yum!

Live on the south side of town? The location in

Highlands Ranch (since October 2008) boasts the same

delectable cuisine, stylish atmosphere, extensive wine

collection, wine walls, outdoor patio with a fire pit and

beautiful views of the mountains. Haven’t made reserva-

tions yet for Valentine’s Day dinner? Give them a call to

reserve your spot. Check the website for hours, menus

and upcoming events. Denver Restaurant Week 2013

starts February 23 and runs through to March 8. Enjoy

a meal for two for $52.80 or one for $26.40. Fabulous

deals for fantastic cuisine! ■Indulge has locations at 1601 Mayberry Drive in

Highlands Ranch (303- 991-1994) and in Golden at 1299

Washington Avenue

(303-277-9991). For more

information, please visit

indulgewinebar.com and

for their wine school visit

indulgewineschool.com.

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HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 23

Q: I Am IN THE mARKET FOR A NEw COFFEE TABLE BuT DON’T KNOw HOw TO SELECT THE BEST SIzE FOR mY SpACE. ANY ADVICE? -STEpHANIE FROm pARKER, CO

A: I always tell our clients to establish the layout of the space

first. You can do this very easily by doing a space plan in which you

lay out your furniture pieces. Remember to work with your room’s

shape. If your room is square, complement your floor plan with a

square arrangement.

After plotting and laying down all the furniture pieces, look to see

what is remaining in the void at the center of your plan. If you have a

square shape, then a square or round coffee table would be best. A

rectangular void calls for a rectangular coffee table.

herlife | home and design

LOVE THESpACE

YOu’RE INby l innore gonzales | photo by jm photoart

Linnore Gonzales is also the owner of a full service decorating company, Décor & You. “Décor & You furnishes and refines residential and commercial interiors. Our designers have the power to simplify how people achieve comfort, style and value in their homes and businesses. It’s an ambitious goal, and Décor & You delivers it – right to your door!” If you have any decorating questions or dilemmas, email Linnore at [email protected] or check www.decorandyouhr.com. 

Q: I HAVE A SmALL SpACE. wHAT DO I NEED TO KEEp IN mIND wHEN DECORATINg? - SuSAN FROm DENVER, CO

A: If space is at a premium, it is always best to keep the

following tips in mind:

Scale down proportion

Use clean lines

Remove clutter

Consider using a loveseat instead of a sofa

Create a focal point in the space and decorate

around the focal point

Introduce mirrors in your decor that are well

placed to enlarge the space

Choose to use “leggy” furniture

Try one large piece of furniture,

like an armoire, in the room

Use color and texture in the

space but avoid high contrast

photo provided by jm photoart

Page 24: February 2013 HerLife magazine

herlife | mother’s perspective

24 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

herlife | mother’s perspective

by hall ie sawyer

Do you remember the drudgery we experienced at the

dentist’s office as kids? There was the dreadful wait-

ing room with nothing to do but look through the same

Highlights Magazine the office had since the beginning

of time. Or how about sitting in that huge plastic chair,

which I swear looked just like an alligator’s mouth ready to snap

shut? I remember waiting for what seemed like hours with my mouth

open while the only thing muttered to us was “Wider, please.”

Times have changed and things don’t have to be that way for

our children. There are so many child-friendly dentists that now we

actually have the opposite problem...how to choose? Here are some

things to look for when searching for the right pediatric dentist.

Proper Certifications What makes a pediatric dentist different from a regular dentist?

They typically have two to three years of specialty training on top

of the usual four-year dental school curriculum. This extra study in-

cludes child psychology as well as growth and development courses.

They will have a board certification from an accredited institution, and

should also be licensed by the state board.

Get ReferralsAsking friends with children for their recommendations is a great

Finding a pediatric dentist close to home is important because you may need to pull a child out in the middle

of the school day for an appointment.

HOw TO

CHOOSE A

pEDIATRIC DENTIST

way to find out about firsthand experiences they’ve had. We ask

friends for good restaurant recommendations, who to call for home

repair and even what to read next. Why not ask around for a great

dentist? Going to the dentist can be very scary to some kids, and it

only makes sense to ask friends about their kids’ experiences.

Meet and Greet Before we buy a car, we usually take it for a test drive, right?

Why not do the same with your child’s dentist? Bring your child along

to meet the dentist and gauge their interaction. Does the dentist talk

to you and your child, or just you? Does he/she have an engaging

personality? Talk to the hygienists who will be taking care of your

child’s dental health. Ask about a typical office visit to make sure you

are comfortable with their procedures. This extra preparation will give

you and your child a chance to start building a trusting relationship

Page 25: February 2013 HerLife magazine

with those in charge of their dental health.

Inviting EnvironmentWhile you’re there meeting the dentist, also assess the environ-

ment. Is it child-friendly and fun? Does the waiting area have games/

toys for kids or just magazines for Mom and Dad? Make sure it’s a

place where your child is going to feel comfortable and look forward

to visiting. Some great things to look for are: kid-sized tables and

chairs, puzzles, books, video games in the waiting areas, televisions

located in each patient station (good distractions!) and goodie bags

for cavity-free visits.

Approachable Sometimes, what ails kids isn’t always a cavity from too many

sweets. They may have sore gums, a bothersome loose tooth or

sensitivity issues. Make sure your child can approach the dentist

with these complaints and feel comfortable sharing their pain. A

good pediatric dentist will ask the child questions and seek answers

from them, not you. This is another great building block of trust in a

healthy patient/healthcare provider relationship. Learning to speak up

now about their health concerns will serve them well their entire lives.

FlexibilityWe know life rarely goes according to plan, and a great pediatric

dentist and their staff should understand this completely. Make sure

they have flexible policies regarding scheduling and don’t penalize

you for being late. Sometimes things just happen (your daughter can’t

find her other shoe, the baby blew out a diaper right before walking

out the door or your son throws a tantrum because he doesn’t want

to sit in his booster seat anymore), and having an understanding staff

makes a world of difference. I feel one of the major feats as a parent

is actually getting where we are supposed to be on time!

Distance from HomeEven though this doesn’t seem like it should be a deal breaker, it

can be, especially when you are having one of those days I men-

tioned above. Finding a pediatric dentist close to home is important

because you may need to pull a child out in the middle of the school

day for an appointment. If you are trekking across the metro area,

you can forget about getting them back to school in time before the

final bell rings. It may not seem like a monumental thing now, but

when they get older, that means taking more tests and having more

homework, which means missing out on school which can become

an issue.

Getting your child to look forward to the dentist seems like an

impossible task, but with a little direction, you find a pediatric dentist

with just the right “pull.” ■

Source: worldental.org

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 25

Page 26: February 2013 HerLife magazine

herlife | green living

26 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

by kathleen m. krueger

Do you feel a bit lost when entering the lightbulb aisle to

stock up on bulbs for your home? There are so many

different types and different prices. How do you make the

right choice–one that will save both energy and money–

while still providing you with the proper lighting for each

area of your home?

Understanding the Difference The main difference between the newer energy-efficient lightbulbs

and the standard incandescent bulbs with the wire filament in them is

heat. The traditional bulbs that have the wire filament use heat to light

up the wire that emits light. Ninety percent of the energy in these tradi-

tional lightbulbs is wasted on creating heat. Although there are energy-

efficient bulbs that still use the wire filaments, they only offer a fraction

of the energy savings that other bulbs can provide. New bulbs now use

improved technology to create light without heat, saving energy and

money over the older versions.

Energy-Saving Incandescent Bulbs The first level of energy-saving bulbs would go to the new genera-

tion incandescent or halogen bulbs. These bulbs still use a filament that

heats up to create light, but they have been upgraded to have a capsule

that surrounds the filament that holds in the gas to increase efficiency.

This leads to less heat or energy needed to create the same amount of

LIgHT BuLBS THAT mAKE A BRIgHT DIFFERENCE

light. These bulbs can save up to 25 percent of the energy costs, and

last up to 3 times longer than their predecessors.

Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) Fluorescent lighting has always been more energy efficient and lasted

longer than incandescent bulbs, but was usually used only in the long,

straight bulbs reminiscent of schools and industrial settings. Incandescent

bulbs were preferred in home settings due to the type of light they emit-

ted, which is a red light that has a warmer feel, versus a blue light.

Fluorescent lightbulbs use gas inside the tubes to create ultravio-

let light. This light is not visible until it hits the phosphor coating on

the inside of the bulbs. Once the ultraviolet protons interact with the

phosphor coating, it creates visible light. Since this light is not created

using heat like incandescent bulbs, there is much less energy used. The

newer “curly” versions of these bulbs can be used in regular lightbulb

sockets, can save up to 75 percent of the energy costs over traditional

bulbs and can last up to 10 times longer.

Light-Emitting Diode (LED) LED lights work by sending electricity along the semiconductors that

are within the device. When this happens, an electromagnetic radiation

is created that can take on the form of visible light. This type of lighting

has long been used in traffic lights, computers and cars. Now there are

Page 27: February 2013 HerLife magazine

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 27

also LED bulbs that fit into the sockets for incandescent lightbulbs.

LED lightbulbs are the most expensive type of bulbs. However, they

are also the most efficient. They have a savings of 75 to 80 percent of

the energy used in standard incandescent bulbs and last up to 25 times

longer. So even though the cost for them is initially higher, in the long run

they will pay for themselves with energy reduction and lifespan.

Choosing The Right Light Although there are energy advantages to consider, the type of light

and fixture you need a bulb for is another consideration. Incandescent or

their energy-efficient counterparts, halogens, give off a softer light, which

many people prefer in some areas of the home. LED and CFL bulbs are

great for long-lasting, energy-efficient lighting, but the light they emit is

brighter and some bulbs do not work in fixtures that have dimmer func-

tions. Here are some tips for choosing your lightbulbs:

Dimmer lights. Halogen or energy-efficient incandescent bulbs are

bested suited for lights that have a dimmer option. CFL bulbs do not

work with dimmers.

Bright light. For areas like the kitchen or a workshop where you occa-

sionally need a bright light, LED will work great.

All-day lighting. For areas that have a light left on for many hours at a

time, CFLs are usually a great choice. CFLs take a few minutes to com-

pletely light and are recommended for lights that are left on at least 15

minutes at a time as they take more energy to light up, but save energy

once they are on.

By switching to more efficient lightbulbs and using them in the areas

that will make the most of their benefits, you can save money and

energy while not having to change your lightbulbs every month or two.

It’s worth taking the time to choose the best bulb for your needs and

reaping the benefits of a greener and brighter choice. ■

Sources: planetbulb.com,

energystar.gov.

LED light bulbs are the most expensive type of bulbs. However,

they are also the most efficient. They have a savings of 75 to 80

percent of the energy used in standard incandescent bulbs and

last up to 25 times longer.

HOT DEALS!

HERLIFE

Want to get great deals from Denver area boutiques,restaurants, and salons delivereddirectly to your inbox?

SIGN UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER TODAY AT:http://www.herlifemagazine.com/denver

Page 28: February 2013 HerLife magazine

herlife | trendsetter

28 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

photography byl ightbox images photography

black & white diamond earrings in 18K rose gold

the streets at southglenn6885 south universi ty boulevard

centennial , co 80122www.tr icejewelers.com

TRICEJEwELERS

clockwise from left :pear-shaped canary yel low diamond with white diamonds set in plat inum

18k white gold r ing with mult ip le diamonds

black and white diamond earr ings in 18k rose gold

18k rose gold and diamond pave bracelet

Page 29: February 2013 HerLife magazine

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 29

the streets at southglenn6885 south university blvd.

centennial , co 80122www.tricejewelers.com

photography by l ightbox images photography

TRICE JEwELERS

pear shaped canary yel low diamond with white diamonds set in platinum

18K white gold r ing with mult iple diamonds

18K rose rose gold and diamond pave bracelet

Page 30: February 2013 HerLife magazine

30 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

herlife | trendsetter

necklace (above and r ight)mult i-color sapphire and diamond necklace in 18K gold

r ing (above) diamond heart sol i ta i re r ing in plat inum

earrings (above and next page) 18K white gold pave diamond heart earr ings

pendant (above)ster l ing s i lver heart pendant by char les krypel l

Page 31: February 2013 HerLife magazine

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 31

Page 32: February 2013 HerLife magazine

32 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

diamond and ruby earrings in 18K white gold

herlife | trendsetter

clockwise from left :diamond

inside outside hoops

white and yel low diamond cluster earr ings set in two tone 18K gold

diamond and ruby earr ings in 18k white gold

18k white gold & diamond col lar necklace

Page 33: February 2013 HerLife magazine

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 33

Page 34: February 2013 HerLife magazine

herlife | fine things

by ann e. butenas

34 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

Although I have an amazing husband who is very support-

ive and a true team player, I must confess that his lack of

enthusiasm for all things romantic does make me pine for

the stuff of which romantic movies are made. “I told you

I loved you once,” he will joke. “And if things should ever

change, I’ll let you know.”

Even though, in my humble opinion, he could win “Husband of

the Year” award for all of his redeeming attributes and qualities, I do

wish he had a bit of the old-fashioned romantic in him. He claims

his dad was never romantic with his mom, and for whatever reason,

that affords him the ability to be the same way, but I’m not buying

a genetic predisposition to the notion. Instead, I can only dream of

what wondrous and timeless gifts of love he might bestow upon me if

he had those romantic thoughts and ideas that would make the mov-

ies jealous. Although I don’t expect a personal display of fireworks

spanning the horizon (as my cousin’s husband did for her on a recent

birthday) or a surprise hot air balloon ride (although that’s an idea to

put in reserve!), it would be nice to see him indulge me with at least

one of these timeless romantic gift ideas.

TImELESS

As love is most definitely in the air this time of year, it is some-

thing truly worth embracing year-round. So if you simply want an

over-the-top Valentine’s Day, or want to spread the love across a

lifetime, here are some great ideas to celebrate the beauty of love.

Nothing speaks to love more than a thoughtfully composed letter

from the heart to the one you adore. While some might break out in

sweat just thinking of putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard),

the best approach is to just let it flow and speak from the heart. The

grammar and punctuation are not nearly as important as the meaning

behind the words.

If you want to make that message even sweeter, find a unique

bottle, perhaps something vintage, and roll the letter up, placing it in

the bottle, sealing it and giving it to your heart’s desire. (Admit it…

you’ve always imagined a letter in the bottle washing up on the shore,

its contents bearing the soul of another in an uninhibited display of

words straight from the language of love.)

Some of the best gifts don’t have to cramp your pocketbook, ei-

ther. When it comes to genuine love, money has nothing to do with it.

Why not create a scrapbook? It doesn’t have to be a huge undertak-

ROmANTICgIFTS

Page 35: February 2013 HerLife magazine

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 35

ing. Put together eight to ten pages that are filled with photos, ticket

stubs and other memorabilia, along with written words that describe

what certain events meant to you and how even the most ordinary of

occasions became extraordinary memories.

Do you like to bake? Consider making a dozen heart-shaped

cookies for your sweetie. Or you could create a CD mix of your loved

one’s favorite songs. Kick that up a notch and create a DVD slide-

show or mini movie, complete with soundtrack and words that pull

together special moments in your lives. If your creative side could use

a little assistance in this regard, there are many software programs

out there to help you pull this off perfectly! If you are really ambitious,

consider a feature film debut of your homemade movie in the living

room, just the two of you, with homemade tickets, popcorn and so-

das, then dim the lights and let the show begin. Make it an event!

A gift basket is a lot of fun to make, too! If your guy is into home

improvement projects, purchase a toolbox and fill it up with his fa-

vorite goodies. For the guys out there, if your gal loves potted plants,

purchase a large pot and fill it with treats, a pair of gardening gloves

and other items that indulge her passion.

Framed photos are also great keepsakes. Find a special picture

of the two of you, have it enlarged and put a beautiful frame around it.

Finally, put your imagination to work and make a coupon book.

Think of all the things your partner enjoys and make coupons for

those. For example, include one for a free neck rub or foot rub, a

free car wash and detail, or a free activity out on the town of his/her

choice. When you really put some thought into what your beloved

genuinely enjoys, this is when true love speaks.

Of course, for women like me, if he does the laundry, puts the

toilet seat down, gives great foot rubs and helps with the kids, then

those are some of the best gifts of all. ■

Sources: toptipspot.com and timelessmessage.com.

A gift basket is a lot of fun to make, too! If your guy is into home improve-

ment projects, purchase a toolbox and fill it up with his favorite good-ies. For the guys out there, if your

gal loves potted plants, purchase a large pot and fill it with treats, a pair

of gardening gloves and other items that indulge her passion.

gIFTS

Page 36: February 2013 HerLife magazine

herlife | working women

36 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

by chandra blackwell

LITTLE wAYS

Life? Oh, you’ve got plenty of that. A job. Kids, maybe.

Friends and family. A sport or hobby or side business. A

pet (or two or six). Likely, you have regular involvement in

some combination of all of the above—so who has time

to host a mega-bucks-per-plate charity event or build a

school in Guatemala? Well, here’s the good news—you don’t have to.

Yes, it’s important to do something to make the world a better place

during the course of your life (otherwise, what is life about?), but too

many people assume that the concept of making a difference is re-

served for those who have a great deal of money, influence and time.

Certainly all of these things help—but you don’t need them in large

increments to make a difference. Here are a few ways you can make

a difference, even with limited resources.

Got a Few Minutes? Gone are the days when volunteer projects encompassed entire

weekends—or even afternoons. Of course it’s always rewarding to de-

vote an entire Saturday to a cause that’s near and dear to your heart,

but thanks to the Internet, you can find a way to make a difference in

just a matter of minutes. The term microvolunteering refers to volun-

teer assignments that can be completed in a small increments of time.

Examples of microvolunteering projects include translating a flyer or

brochure into another language, editing a press release or newsletter,

or setting up a social networking account for an organization. These

kinds of projects can give you a little dose of good karma in a little bit

of time. To find a microvolunteering project, visit sparked.com.

Got a Few Bucks? So you’re not Warren Buffet (yet). Well, it doesn’t take billions

(or even millions) to make a difference. In fact, you can put a good

number of your hard-earned dollars to good use simply by buying fair

trade goods whenever possible. When many people think about fair

trade goods, they usually consider coffee, tea and handicrafts, but

fair trade branding has extended beyond food and fiber. Free trade

products come in many categories, from bedding to wine and spirits

to sports apparel. And the best news is that websites such as fairtra-

deresource.org and fairtradeusa.org can help you locate retailers, in

your area and online, that sell free trade goods. So start shopping!

You can also put your money to good use by thinking about

how you’re investing it. Sustainable and Responsible Investing (SRI)

TO mAKEA

DIFFERENCE

BIg

Page 37: February 2013 HerLife magazine

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 37

by chandra blackwell

now encompasses an estimated 12 percent of the U.S. investment

marketplace. SRI focuses on both the investor’s financial needs and

an investment’s impact on society. By investing responsibly, you can

encourage corporations to improve their practices on environmental,

social and governance issues, and also help to build wealth in under-

served communities around the globe. Go to ussif.org to find out how

to use your dollars to build a more sustainable world.

Got a Few Friends? In addition to how you spend your own money, how your friends

spend theirs can help influence businesses to do the right thing. One

of the best ways to accomplish this (aside from stealing your friends’

wallets and making all of their purchases for them, which could get

you unfriended pretty quickly) is organizing a Carrotmob. Though it

sounds like a bunny’s dream come true, a Carrotmob is actually a

sort of reverse boycott: instead of refusing to spend your money at a

specific company, you and your friends make a deal to spend money

as a group to support that business. In turn, the business agrees to

make an improvement that is meaningful to you. For example, en-

courage your corner store to implement more environmentally-friendly

practices by arranging a massive shop-in in which the owners agree

to use a portion of the revenues to go greener.

Ultimately, contributing to the greater good is less about hav-

ing unlimited money and time, and/or your own personal kingdom

(complete with an abundance of minions), and more about having

unlimited heart and abundant creativity. So what are you waiting for?

Start putting your assets to work—and miracles will happen.

Making a Difference Anytime, Anywhere: Random Acts of Kindness

Chances are, you’ve experienced at least one random act of

kindness in the past few weeks. Did someone let you go ahead of her

in the grocery checkout line because she had a full cart, whereas you

only had a can of cheese dip, four wine coolers and a bag of fun-size

candy bars (we’re not here to judge!)? Did you (finally!) make it to the

front of the coffee shop line, grumpy and impatient, only to learn from

the cashier that the guy in front of you had already paid for your latte?

Random acts of kindness are those small, spontaneous day-bright-

eners that help us all keep going. And sometimes it’s just the thing

someone needs to make it through the day. The best part of a random

act of kindness is that it doesn’t require a lot of money, time, manpow-

er or planning! Any little thing you can think of to improve someone’s

day, do it! Looking for ideas? Visit kinded.com, and make your “make

a difference” move! ■

Sources: communitytech.net, huffingtonpost.com,

randomactsofkindness.org and time.com.

Page 38: February 2013 HerLife magazine

herlife | spotlight

38 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

“These are little pieces of

chocolate gold.” That’s

what people have told Lisa

Hemphill for years. Now, Lisa

has turned that chocolate

passion into a full time business, making her

unique creations. Truffnies are a delectable

cross between the European Truffle and the

All-American Brownie.

Lisa has always loved cooking up deli-

cious creations. She actually made her first

batch of Truffnies 17 years ago while preg-

nant with her daughter, Jacqui. The dream of

making her Truffnies as a living has been with

her most of her life. In September 2011, that

dream came true when Lisa left her corporate

job to become the full-time CEO (Chocolate

Executive Officer) of Chocolate Avenue USA,

Inc. Who knew that the gift of an Easy Bake

Oven at the age of seven could lead to own-

ing your own business some day?

However, don’t let the big corporate

by kathleen m. krueger |

photography by l ightbox images photography

name mislead you. Truffnies is a true “Colo-

rado Proud” company. This corporation is a

small, intimately run family business. Lisa’s

two most dedicated chocolatiers are her two

teenage children – Jacqui and Max. The three

of them make and bake, pack and wrap,

ship and sell most of the Truffnies in their

commercial kitchen. After only a year, they

are proud to support additional Colorado

employees.

Truffnies are delicious, melt-in-your-

mouth chocolates with exotic flavors, but

there are other aspects of these delectable

little treats that are appreciated by the

chocolate lovers who purchase and con-

sume them. Truffnies are made from high

quality, all-natural ingredients and contain

no preservatives. That means Truffnies are

always prepared fresh and eaten within a few

days after they have been made. “They aren’t

meant to last for weeks or months,” says

Lisa. “They’re intended to be savored and

Truffnies are made from high quality,

all-natural ingredients and

contain no preservatives. That

means Truffnies are always

prepared fresh and eaten within a few

days after they have been made.

Page 39: February 2013 HerLife magazine

enjoyed.” They have no paraffin or wax mixed in with the chocolate like you

may find in many ‘fine’ chocolates. Truffnies are for the purist, those who want

to enjoy their chocolate without those added extenders of shelf life. Truffnies

are natural, organic, luxury, affordable confections that provide tantalizing

tastes, every time.

Eaten at room temperature, Truffnies will be closer in texture to that of

a brownie, Lisa notes; when kept in the refrigerator and eaten cold, they will

be closer to the texture and flavor of a truffle. You may want to experiment

to decide whether you prefer them warmer or cooler. Of course, the flavor of

the Truffnie you’re eating may make a difference as well, and there are always

several to choose from. There are a few standard flavors always available, such

as The Classic, which is topped with an edible gold dust, but Lisa and her

chocolatiers create several specialty flavors that change with the seasons, like

the Holiday Cracked Peppermint flavor that was offered during the Christmas

season. Strawberry Lemon Pepper and Mango Orange were also hits this fall.

When they first launched in 2011, Truffnies were being sold through a retail

outlet at Park Meadows. From there, Lisa took Truffnies to a kiosk at the Den-

ver International Airport for eight months. It was there that Truffnies truly got

their international launch. Travelers from all over the globe stopped to sample

this unique chocolate treat. As a result, Truffnies have found their way into

some exotic places, such as the Emperor’s Palace in Ethiopia and the dressing

rooms in Hollywood for the television program Dancing with the Stars. They

have even been in the “swag bags” for the Hollywood elite at the American

Cinematheque Awards.

“Making a statement is about great taste” has become the corporate

motto of Chocolate Avenue USA, Inc. Successful corporations, like Lockheed

Martin, recognize the truth in that statement. They ordered 350 boxes of Truff-

nies to give out as corporate gifts in 2012. Corporations can get special pricing

when they place their bulk orders, but they will still receive the same hands-on

service from the chocolatiers who create and package these boxes of choco-

late decadence. Anyone who receives a gift box of Truffnies will take note of

who sent them, especially if they are designed around your corporate logo or

brand.

Truffnies have already garnered some prestigious awards from the con-

noisseurs of fine chocolates, such as Best Open Class at the Colorado Choco-

late Festival, Best Non-Traditional Truffle at the Winter Park Chocolate Festival

and Best Traditional Truffle Filling at the Broadmoor Holiday Chocolate Festival

Truffle Competition.

You will find Truffnies showing up at wedding receptions with special two-

packs from the bride and groom, backstage in Hollywood, given out as special

gifts and for some lucky ladies (and men) – delivered to them on Valentine’s

Day. Personalized boxes and ribbons can also be special ordered for any

purchase.

Lisa is always trying out new recipes, so you never know what new and

exciting flavor will show up in a boxed assortment. Chocolate Lisa invites you

to reach out today and place your order for Valentine’s Day or any special oc-

casion. Remember – “Making a statement is about great taste!” ■You can order Truffnies online at Truffnies.com or by phone at

720-344-7400, or visit the Chocolate Kitchen of Chocolate Avenue USA,

Inc. located at 6920 S. Jordan Road, Centennial, CO 80112.

by kathleen m. krueger |

photography by l ightbox images photography

Page 40: February 2013 HerLife magazine

herlife | finance

40 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

by catie watson

Talk to anyone who’s made a commitment to lifelong physi-

cal fitness and they’ll probably tell you that persistence is

the key. Staying in shape requires constant commitment to

exercise and healthy habits. The same type of persistence

is required for financial fitness. Just like physical fitness,

financial fitness is only achieved by those who work at it.

Physical fitness is defined as a level of muscular strength and

cardiovascular efficiency that allows one to meet a variety of physical

challenges. Financial fitness can be defined in similar terms. Some-

one who is financially fit has strong financial reserves, is efficient in

their spending and is prepared to meet the financial challenges that

can occur at every life stage.

Some people are lucky enough to have absorbed financial

prudence from their parents. If you’re not one of those lucky few,

you can still learn how to secure your financial future and become

financially fit. A research team at Florida State University spent three

years studying the habits of people who are financially fit and then

condensed their findings into the following six simple strategies.

Work Together. If you have a partner or spouse, try to com-

municate as much as possible about household finances. Learning

to work together to manage your finances and plan for your future

will make it easier to stick to your plans. It can also be good for your

ARE

relationship since numerous studies have shown that money is one

of the top reasons that couples argue. Think of yourselves as a team

and work together to get financially fit.

Get Informed. No matter how old you are, now is the time to

start planning for retirement. The best way to begin is by finding out

about retirement plans provided by your employer. Not all employers

provide a pension or match funds for a 401(k), but if your employer

does, then find out all you can about it. Some employers also provide

financial services to help employees invest and save for the future.

Find Your Number. A recent study conducted by T. Rowe

Price, a leading investment management firm, found that more than

two-thirds of workers aged 21 to 50 who have a 401(k) are contribut-

ing less than 10 percent of their salary each year. Nearly a third of

workers aren’t sure how much they’re contributing. Part of the doubt

about how much to save probably stems from uncertainty about

how much money is needed for retirement. Many financial experts

recommend saving between 8 and 12 times your annual salary. Talk

to a financial planner or visit ChooseToSave.org to find out what your

target savings number should be.

Do Some Forecasting. Once you have a clear picture of

your retirement goal, try to forecast whether you can reach it with

your current rate of savings. Don’t forget to take major expenses like

YOuFINANCIALLY FIT ?

LEARNINg

FISCAL

pRuDENCE

Page 41: February 2013 HerLife magazine

buying a home or sending children to college into account. You’ll find

retirement calculators at Bankrate.com that can help you plug in the

numbers and see where you stand. The results of your forecasting will

tell you whether you’re on track or if you will need to alter your current

spending and saving habits.

Maximize Savings. Researchers at Florida State University

found that financially fit households automatically put money from

each paycheck into savings. Another key practice was saving money

for large ticket items like cars and appliances, and paying cash in-

stead of buying on credit.

Minimize Debt. Researchers also found that financially fit

households share three common approaches to debt. First, they usu-

ally pay their bills on time and frequently pay off their credit card bills

in full each month. This means they avoid making credit card purchas-

es unless they know they’ll have money to pay off the charges by the

end of the month. Second, many financially fit households pay extra

toward their principal in their mortgage payment each month. Even a

small extra payment can make a big difference over a period of sev-

eral years. For example, paying as little as $7.50 extra per month on a

30-year mortgage of $100,000 at 6 percent interest can eliminate an

entire year of mortgage payments. The third approach to credit shared

by many financially fit households is establishing an emergency fund

to be used for unanticipated expenses. This helps them avoid using

credit for car repairs, medical bills and other unexpected events.

Working toward financial fitness is more important now than ever

before. Most Americans can expect to live longer than their parents

and grandparents, and will need more money saved for a longer

retirement. Besides ensuring a comfortable retirement, being in good

financial shape will help you successfully meet some of life’s major

financial challenges, including paying back student loans, buying a

home and raising children. ■

Sources: CNBC, the American Savings Education Council and

Florida State University’s Financial Fitness Project

(financestudyfsu.org)

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 41

Researchers at Florida State university found that financially fit

households automatically put money from each paycheck into savings. Another key practice was saving

money for large ticket items like cars and appliances, and paying cash

instead of buying on credit.

Page 42: February 2013 HerLife magazine

herlife | home

by hall ie sawyer

42 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

Designing and decorating your home can be an overwhelm-

ing process. Choosing floor plans, paint colors, window

coverings, kitchen cabinets...the list of decisions goes on

and on. But today, in the era of smartphones, there are

some helpful tools right in the palm of your hand. (Yes,

there are apps for everything!) Whether you have an iPhone, Samsung

Galaxy or Android, you can have the services of a designer without the

outrageous bill.

When it comes to floor plans and architecture, here’s one to

check out: Home Design 3D by LiveCad. This iPhone app

gives you the capability of creating and designing the home of your

dreams. There are over 150 different items to drag and drop such as

uSINg pHONE AppS TO DESIgN YOuR HOmE

furniture, shelves, lamps, rugs, etc. There is a free version of this app

but it won’t let you save your design. Getting the $7.99 app will allow

you to save your design, letting you come back to it again and again.

(Available for iPhone only.)

Once you get the structure the way you want it, you’ll need apps to

help with what look you are going for, inside and out. Here are a few to

help you get started.

Houzz is an interior/exterior design app that lets you peruse

tons of photos and choose looks you would like to recreate in your

own home. You can save photos of things you like to your “My Houzz”

via categories you set up, just like virtual bulletin boards. You can ask

questions directly to the designers whose work is featured in the photos.

Also, there are green tags hanging from some products where you can

click on to find the manufacturer and price.

Another very cool thing is that you are able to locate local de-

signers. You can click the professionals tab, select the service you

are looking for, and then select the metro area you are from. A list of

designers/service professionals shows up and how to reach them. You

also have the ability to download your own photos to the app. If you

are out shopping, you can take a picture of an item and download to

the app to reference later.

DecorPad is one is very similar to Houzz but one of the unique

features that sets it apart is that you can search for deals in their ‘Looks

4 Less’ category. Both apps are free and have web versions. (Available

for iPhone only.)

Pinterest is an amazing app for giving you the inspiration you

need as well some links to find out how to do it or buy it. The number

of DIY ideas on here is staggering but if that’s not in your bag of tricks,

there are many stores/shops with their own Pinterest boards. Previously,

you had to have a Facebook or Twitter account to sign up. They have

changed that and you can get a Pinterest account with just a valid email

address. (Available for iPhone and Android.)

(Words of advice: Set a timer when you log on. Time will never have

flown by so quickly in your life.)

Page 43: February 2013 HerLife magazine

Dream Home by Apalon is a five-star rated app full of

high-quality photos of real interiors designed by professional archi-

tects and interior designers. You can filter your results by style, room,

what’s popular and even color. It also provides offline viewing, mean-

ing no Internet needed. (Available in Android only.)

You may need a helping hand in the middle of a project and

these apps just might be the tools you’ve been looking for:

MagicPlan by Sensopia is an app that measures your

rooms and draws up your home’s floor plan by the pictures you take.

How many times have you been furniture shopping and wondered if

your room is big enough? This takes the guesswork out plus you have

a floor plan of your house! (Available for iPhone only.)

Carpet and Floor Calculator by Suresh Desu.

Flooring can be tricky when you are out shopping, with some things

listed by the yard and some listed by the foot. Take the budget guess-

work out by having this handy app in your back pocket. You can

calculate costs right there on the spot and it even gives you a place

to add in labor costs. (Available in iPhone only.)

iHandy Level—where has this one been all of my life? This

app works just like a real level. Use it for hanging pictures, mirrors,

remodeling, painting stripes, etc. You can finally put that big awk-

ward hunk of metal away in your husband’s toolbox. Now you’ve got

your own and yours fits right in your pocket. (Available in iPhone and

Android.)

No home design project is complete without a few visits to your

local hardware store, whether it be Home Depot, Sears, Menards,

or Lowe’s. These stores all have their own apps and may be worth a

download for the convenience of comparing products. ■

Sources: mashable.com, iTunes and Google Play.

by hall ie sawyer

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 43

pinterest is an amazing app for giving you the inspiration you need as well some links to find out how

to do it or buy it. The number of DIY ideas on here is staggering but if

that’s not in your bag of tricks, there are many stores/shops with their

own pinterest boards.

Page 44: February 2013 HerLife magazine

herlife | real estate

44 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

by l inda r. price

The word just came—you are being relocated. What do you

need to do to make this relocation stress-free and a suc-

cess for you (and your family)? It all depends on whether

you are a single, career-minded woman or a married

woman with children.

The single, career-minded woman is interested in being safe and

near the action. She wants a home near work. Good clubs, movie

theaters, restaurants, museums, fitness centers, shopping and other

activities within walk-

ing distance or a short

drive are priorities.

The married woman,

especially with children,

is looking for something

else. She’s interested

in a beautiful, suburban

neighborhood with good,

high-performing schools.

She is more accustomed

to driving to malls, gro-

cery stores and entertain-

ment centers for herself

and her family. Even so,

nearby parks and recre-

ation areas are a plus.

Women prefer new

houses with ample clos-

ets, up-to-date kitchens

and modern bathrooms.

Most prefer an open floor

plan that is great for en-

tertaining or keeping an

eye on the kids. Women

like the “feel” of a house or apartment, according to Senada Adžem,

top Florida realtor, and they know immediately if the house is “right”

for them, says Sarah Jo Wood, former realtor.

When purchasing a new house, women are looking for a good

investment. From a financial standpoint, women are looking for a

residential area where prices have held steady, says realtor Barb

Churchill. Realtor and Army wife Kathryn Miller believes that married

women want a house that is good for raising their children. In addi-

tion, women consider the setting of their houses. They want houses

with a large, private, fenced, level backyard so the children can be let

out to play. A cul-de-sac,

instead of a busy road,

is often ideal for young

mothers who worry about

traffic and their children.

Maybe it’s their

creative spirit coming

through, but women are

more proactive with floor

plans than men, says

Kathryn. Women consider

such factors as one child

per bedroom or not. Are

there enough bathrooms?

Is there a spare room that

can be designated as

a playroom where toys

can be left out? With

the hours spent on food

preparation, women want

a kitchen that is open so

they can keep their eyes

on everyone yet attractive

enough to be seen by all

who visit. Sarah Jo says

that women are concerned with the condition of the house. Does

it need repairs in areas such as the basement, bathrooms or other

RELOCATION NECESSITIES

Page 45: February 2013 HerLife magazine

rooms of the house?

President for the Corporate Housing Providers Association

(CHPA), Kimberly Smith, thinks that caution is advisable if you don’t

know the area well or suspect the relocation might be temporary. In

these circumstances, it’s a good idea to rent until you feel comfort-

able buying. She suggests that you not rent a traditional, unfurnished

home, because it becomes stressful to furnish and your household

furnishings have more wear and tear. Your possessions can be put

into storage while you become thoroughly familiar with the area and

take your time to purchase a new permanent home.

Another tip from Kimberly is to keep your options open by rent-

ing your current home as a corporate rental rather than selling it if

you are not sure that the move is going to be permanent. By renting

your home as a corporate rental, you can leave your furnishings in

place and rent for 1 or 2 months at a time (versus 12 months with a

traditional rental). If your relocation is not satisfactory, you can always

return home!

Above all, Kimberly states women should understand that

relocation is not a time to make nice. This is the time to step up and

negotiate a relocation package in accordance with your company’s

policies. If you are the primary caregiver, a pertinent question to ask

is if there is a babysitter allowance? Will my healthcare package be

accepted in the new state? How will the company help me sell my

house? Will the company give me a general orientation to the new

area? What are the property tax rates? How many times am I allowed

to travel back and forth before I settle in? Are rental cars provided?

Publisher, writer and artist Linda McCracken has a different take

on what professional women look for in a house. She seeks solitude

in order to work at home and closeness to nature to stimulate her

creativity. There is a small town 15 minutes away and she is near

2 colleges and other artists nearby. By living on a New Hampshire

peninsula, she is able to enjoy the local community life yet has only

one close neighbor.

So it all depends—on the woman and her special needs. ■

Source: CorporateHousingbyOwner.com.

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 45

In these circumstances, it’s a good idea to rent until you feel comfortable

buying. She suggests that you not rent a traditional, unfurnished home,

because it becomes stressful to furnish and your household

furnishings have more wear and tear.

Page 46: February 2013 HerLife magazine

herlife | tie the knot

46 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

Katrina (Katy) Lynn (Johnson)

Bechtold is a native to Colorado.

She was born and raised in the

Centennial area and graduated from

Grandview High School. She then

went on to continue her education at Colo-

rado State University in Fort Collins where she

received a business degree from CSU with an

emphasis in Finance. Katy was lucky enough

to be selected for a job at Lockheed Martin in

the fall of her senior year. Once she graduated,

she started working full time as a financial ana-

lyst for the company. She went on to get her

MBA from the University of Denver in 2009.

Steve Wilhelm Bechtold is also a native

to Colorado. He graduated from Columbine

High School and decided to stay in the

area to attend Metro State University. He

worked full time at Sullivan’s Steakhouse

while completing his degree. In 2009, he felt

called to join the United States Army and

was shipped to Georgia for basic training.

Steve was lucky enough to be stationed at

Fort Carson in Colorado Springs once he

finished his training in order to be close to

Katy and his family. Steve spent one full year

in Afghanistan to help the U.S. fight the war

on terrorism. Since his deployment, he has

been stationed in Colorado and working a

new assignment that will prevent him from

having to deploy again while he finishes out

his term. Once he’s completed his time in

the Army, he hopes to put his Business Man-

agement Degree to good use and open up

his own business. The newlyweds currently

live in Highlands Ranch. They absolutely love

the community and hope to stay in the area

to raise their kids.

The couple met in June 2008 in Las

Vegas. They were both there celebrating their

friends’ 21st birthdays, and their respective

groups happened to meet and hang out for

the duration of the trip. They were friends

first and didn’t start dating until almost a year

later. Their relationship continued to slowly

blossom and they fell in love right before

Steve left to go to basic training. Their love

continued to grow as they were forced to

have a long-distance relationship. They have

now been together for more than three years,

and feel so blessed that Steve was stationed

in Colorado Springs so they were able to stay

near their families.

Steve was smart about the way he

proposed to Katy. He knew that she would

be suspicious if he made a big spectacle out

of it. He also knew that she would get super

shy if he proposed in front of a lot of people,

even if it was in front of family and friends,

because Katy is introverted. So he picked

a Monday night to propose, and led her to

believe that she was going to pick up pizza

on the way home from work (normally Steve

is the cook and always cooks Katy dinner).

When she walked in the door, the kitchen

lights were dimmed and there were candles

on the counter. Steve had a large bouquet full

of flowers on the counter with a ribbon tied

around it. The ribbon weaved through the

by candi smith | photography by jm photoart

Page 47: February 2013 HerLife magazine

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 47

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48 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM48 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

LOCAL BUSINESSES THAT SHARED IN THE LOVE

BRIDAL & BRIDESMAIDS GOWNS:THE BRIDAL COLLECTION

PHOTOGRAPHY:JM PHOTOART

FLORISTS:LITTLETON DOWNTOWN FLORAL

CATERER: ROCKY MOUNTAIN CATERING

CAKE: SUGAR BAKESHOP

vENUE:HIGHLANDS RANCH MANSION

kitchen, through the dining room and all the way up the stairs. Every

couple of feet, there was a card with a sweet memory, or something

he loves about her, or a funny inside joke of theirs. The cards and rib-

bon led Katy all the way upstairs where Steve was waiting for her on

bended knee and asked her to marry him! Of course, she said, “Yes!”

The happy couple tied the knot on September 15, 2012. They

created a romantic feel for their wedding day and evening. They

wanted the vibe at their wedding to be lots of fun with everyone

dancing and having a blast! They brought in a couple of their interests

to make the wedding unique by having a wine theme and dancing

in their cowboy and cowgirl boots for the first dance. They hoped to

bring out the silliness in everyone by providing a photo booth with

a lot of props. Overall, they wanted to share their love and fun with

everyone that would be there!

The newlyweds went to a Sandals resort in Antigua called

Sandals Grande Antigua, which is on a small island in the eastern

Caribbean Sea. They chose Sandals because they cater to honey-

mooners and couples, and are all-inclusive. This particular resort was

voted “World’s Most Romantic Resort” for several years in a row. Katy

and Steve wanted to go on a vacation where they could relax by the

ocean, enjoy each other’s company and have no time schedule, so

choosing an all-inclusive resort was a must for them. They had an

absolutely amazing time and can’t wait to go back someday soon! ■

Page 49: February 2013 HerLife magazine

HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 49HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 49

ROCKY mOuNTAIN mS CENTER ANNuAL gALAphotography by jm photoart

The Rocky Mountain MS Center held their annual gala at the History Colorado

Center. For the past 32 years, the Rocky Mountain MS Center has been a

leader in international efforts to discover the cause and find a cure for multiple

sclerosis. Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a chronic neurological disease, is the

leading cause of disability in young women and the second leading cause

of disability in young men. More than 1 in 550 Coloradans live with MS. The Rocky

Mountain MS Center’s mission is to improve the lives of people with MS and their

families through care, support, education and research. For more information on how

you can get involved or donate visit mscenter.org.

herlife | scene and be seen

Page 50: February 2013 HerLife magazine

50 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM50 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

herlife | scene and be seen

HIgHLANDS RANCH CHAmBER LuNCHEONphotography by jm photoart

The Chamber of Commerce of Highlands Ranch celebrated their business

members during their monthly luncheon. The Chamber offers member

businesses opportunities to succeed and grow in Douglas County as

they continue to provide networking opportunities, legislative updates

and community involvement. They educate, support and promote local

companies, as well as the Highlands Ranch community. They started in 2000 with a

handful of businesses and have since grown to represent more than15,000 employ-

ees. If you want to learn, join and be involved with the Highlands Ranch Chamber and

the Highlands Ranch community visit highlandsranchchamber.org.

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52 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM