mckinney woman magazine february/march 2010 issue

February/March 2010 | McKinney Woman 1www.northtexasmagazines.com

February/March 2010

Residential CustomerMcKinney, TX

PRSRT STDU.S.POSTAGE

PAIDMcKinney,TXPermit No 146

On the CoverCancer Survivor

Manda Maxwellis “Manda Strong”

10 Steps toA BetterMarriage

Stay on Track with

New Year’sResolutions

The Divine LineWatch Over Your Heart

with All Diligence

Flip to read

McKinney

Kids

Magazine

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On the CoverA Cancer Survivor Manda Maxwellis “Manda Strong”

Cover Photo by:Wendolin Mercado Photography

www.wendolin.com

Publisher/Editor:Vanessa Ximenez

[email protected]

Art Director:Marlina Rahman

[email protected]

Contributing Writers:Mary Banas

Kathy GarlandLeslie Pepper

Kim Seidel

McKinney Woman ContentsFebruary/March 2010

Features6 Cover Story A Cancer Survivor

Manda Maxwell is “Manda Strong”

8 10 Steps to A Better Marriage

10 Fake A Good Night Sleep

8 10

16 18

MCKiNNEY WOMAN MAGAziNE iS A PRODuCT OF NORTH TEXAS MAGAziNES, iNC.Copyright 2009, exclusive of proprietary ads and artwork designs. All rights reserved. No portion may be reproduced in whole or in part by any means without prior written permission from the publisher. Placement of advertising is not a personal endorsement by the publisher or its representatives, and no liability arising therefrom is assumed.

Departments16 The Divine Line 18 Empowering Women

For advertising information contact our office at

972-547-6261www.northtexasmagazines.com

The 2nd Annual Portrait For Every Parent Project!

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Wendolin Mercado PhotographyAll sittings are Free! Packages start at $40

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is “Manda Strong”as a Cancer Survivor

On the cover

Manda Maxwell


Within one week of Aiden’s birth, Manda broke her leg. After

having an MRI, Manda was told she had cancer. The cancer

had been caused by radiation treatments she had under-

gone 22 years ago for a rare form of childhood cancer called

Rhabdomyosarcoma that she was diagnosed with in 1986 at

the age of five.

Although she had been cancer free for 22 years, it seemed

that a secondary cancer had returned.

She immediately met with a specialist and it was determined

that they would have to amputate her leg. On February 13,

2009 just two weeks after giving birth to her first child, Manda

had major surgery to amputate her leg. The next two months

would be very difficult. Not only was she having to take care

of an infant while adjusting to having just one leg, but she also

had to decide on a treatment plan with three doctors who had

very different opinions.

“Because I already had a lifetime limit of most of the treatment

drugs, two of the doctors were not comfortable administering

them to me. However, one doctor at MD Anderson in Houston

felt it was the right thing to do and when I turned to God for His

direction, He gave me the confidence that the treatment at MD

Anderson was the answer,” said Manda.

The chemo was very aggressive and in April and May all treat-

ments had to be given in the hospital which meant more time

away from her baby, making her situation more difficult

to endure.

By June, she was fitted for a prosthetic leg. “It felt like years

since I had last walked on my own and I wanted so badly to be

able to walk my sleepy baby back and forth and watch him fall

asleep,” she said.

Between June and November, treatments were given to her at

Baylor Hospital in Dallas which fortunately, brought her closer to

home and her family.

When Manda Maxwell gave birth to her first child, Aiden, on January 26, 2009, it was one of the happiest days for her and her husband, Aaron. Manda was very excited about this new phase of her life called parenthood. unfortunately, this excitement would be short-lived when one week later, she would receive devastating news.Photo by Wendolin Mercado Photography


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Manda admits that at times, she was scared and couldn’t

believe she was reliving this illness, 22 years later, but at

other times, she was confident that God would heal her

again the same way He did when she was five. “I finally

decided that I would choose faith over fear,” she said.

Last year, her friends created the team, “Manda Strong”

for Relay for Life. She was undergoing treatments in

Houston and unable to attend. But this year is different.

She is the team captain for Manda Strong and will lead

her team in this year’s ceremonies. The bible verse that

she has selected to guide her team this year is, “The Lord

is my strength and my song, He has given me victory.”

Exodus 15:2.

“The journey I took in 2009 was not one I would have

chosen, but one that God led me through. My faith in my

Lord Jesus kept me going and my trust in Him told me that

I was not alone. After each difficult moment, God gave me

the strength to continue. I am thankful for my family who

has been there every step of the way and for my church

family at First Baptist Church of McKinney. They showed

their love for us during our toughest hours with prayers

and monetary support,” she said.

Manda holds strong to her faith by telling us, “Jesus did not

promise His children a perfect life. In fact, He tells us that as

His children, we grow in our faith the most during the trials in

our life. I did a lot of growing this past year.” MWM

Photo by Wendolin Mercado Photography

Experience is a good teacher. Learning from other married couples

also can provide inspiration.

Following are 10 steps you can take to improve your most important

relationship, your marriage:

1. Remember why you married your partner.Beth Burgos believes it’s important to recall what attracted you to

your husband. Beth and Patrick have been married about 30 years

and have three sons. “This is your deep story,” Burgos says. “Re-

member that you would have done anything in your early days to be

together. When I think about how lucky I am to be living day-to-day

with the love of my life, the messiness of ordinary life seems bear-

able, even precious.”

2. Treat your partner well.He or she is the love of your life, not your butler or auto mechanic.

“If you treat him with respect, he’ll respond with respect,” Burgos

says. “If you do things for him to make his day easier, he’ll respond

and do things for you to make your day easier.”

3. Compromise.Early on in their marriage, Linda and Pat Kerrigan realized an im-

portant truth: “It’s not about me.” Spending about 40 years together

under the same roof has taught them that they don’t always get to

have their own way.

4. Keep forgiveness on the table.Forgiveness isn’t always easy to impart, especially with couples

who accumulate a large arsenal of resentments or annoyances

over the years. “Most of us have a pretty good litany of past

screw ups and grievances,” Kerrigan says. “What’s the point of

throwing them in each other’s faces?”

5. Play “TAG.”TAG is the acronym for Thankfulness, Appreciation and Grateful-

ness, says Jerry Nelson, a marriage and family. Make it a daily

habit to tell one another what you enjoy about each other, rather

than criticizing.

6. Make time for one another.Nelson and his wife, Kristi, who have been married more than 30

years and raised six children, practice the “Five Magic Hours.”

It’s a concept from the book “The Seven Principles for Making

Marriage Work” by John M. Gottman and Nan Silver (Crown

Publishing Group, 2000). It’s recommended that couples take 20

minutes a day on reunions, such as returning home from work. In

parting, spend two minutes.

Other practices to total “five hours” include spending five minutes

a day expressing admiration and appreciation, and five minutes a

day showing affection, such as holding hands and hugging.

BY KiM SEiDEL

10 Steps to a Better Marriage

As my husband and i celebrate each wedding anniversary, i feel a sense of accomplishment that we’ve shared another year together. Each blessing we welcome, challenge we face and every argument we have – or avoid – brings us closer.



10 Steps to a Better Marriage

7. Keep communication alive.“Talk, reminisce, laugh, cry,” Kerrigan says. “As a couple, we

argue, talk politics, share jokes and talk about our day. True, life

isn’t one big exciting adventure day after day, but it is in the small

things – some might argue routine – that we share the majority of

the minutes and days of our lives.”

8. Make your needs and expectations clear.Don’t give men hints. “We’ve all heard how men and women

communicate as if they’re from different planets,” Burgos says.

“If you want ostentatious bouquets of flowers sent to the office for

Valentine’s Day, you better tell your guy exactly that.”

9. Enjoy intimacy.Studies show that couples committed to working as a team,

raising their children and running their household equally, engage

in a healthier sex life, says Mary Ellen West, a nurse midwife.

West often asks a woman with a lack in sexual desire if her part-

ner is helpful at home. Hammering out domestic issues may lead

to more joy and harmony in all areas of your relationship.

Discover what you need to enjoy private time together, such as

simply installing a lock on your bedroom door. As uncomfortable

as it may be, talk about your sex life with your partner, West says.

You can determine together what’s “normal” for the amount of sex

in your relationship.

Then, make sex a priority; schedule your intimate times on your

calendar like you would a business appointment. “Some of the

most successful couples have no problem making sure the kids

go to bed early, and they have their time together at the end of

the day,” West says.

10. Keep the spark alive.Couples in long-term relationships can get in a rut. “Novelty

is so important in maintaining desire for both men and women,”

West says. Try massages, lubricants and lingerie to spice things

up. Set the mood with candles, soft lighting and silk sheets.

“Don’t be afraid to be womanly,” Burgos says. “You don’t have

to dress like the prom queen, but if you’re going out to dinner to-

gether, fuss a little. Let him know it matters to you that you want

to look nice for him.”

Finally, don’t forget that you were a couple first, Burgos says.

“Raising a family is so overwhelming, so all-encompassing, so ev-

erything, that weeks and months can pass without a conversation

on anything other than kids and daily details. But the best thing

you can do for your kids is to stay in love with each other,” she

says. “That creates a safe and harmonious household for your

family, and gives your kids an example of positive adults who

treat each other well.” MWM

Married for 16 years, KiM SEiDEL is a freelance writer and mother of two in La Crosse, Wis.

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Call to schedule yourFREE SKIN CANCER SCREENING

We’ve got some eye-opening tips to make you look and feel well-rested no matter how few zzz’s you caught last night. (And the night before, and the night before, and the night before!)

Wake up naturallyReplace your usual blaring alarm clock with one that wakes you

up with soothing, gradual light. Natural light helps the body’s

internal biological clock reset itself each day, keeping you ener-

gized during the day and helping you fall asleep easier tonight.

Open the shades first thing in the morning too.

Take a showerIf you’ve got time to shower today, pour some citrus essential oil

on the bottom of the tub, suggests Nancy Cotter, MD. When the

hot water hits it, you’ll get a stimulating citrus steam bath.

Practice a balancing act. Walk around the living room with a book poised on top of your

head, suggests Stephanie Tourles, author of 365 Ways to Ener-

gize Mind, Body & Soul. Poor posture compresses your lungs,

depriving the body of oxygen. Plus the book balancing may give

your toddler a giggle, and what could be more refreshing than

hearing your child laugh?

Fake A GoodNight Sleep

Color you awake!Change out of your same old same old gray sweatpants and put

on something red, yellow, or orange. “These colors stimulate

emotional centers in the brain that make us feel more upbeat and

cheerful,” says Tourles.

MoisturizeSlather some cream on your face to plump up fine, dry lines and

reflect the light, giving your complexion a healthier appearance.

Take a big gulp Dehydration is a major fatigue factor. Carry a 24-oz sports bottle

of water in your bag or leave one on your desk at work. Your

goal: To down two to three of these bottles per day.

Don’t skimp on breakfastOatmeal and bananas with skim milk is an easy choice. “A break-

fast that contains protein and complex grains won’t cause a spike

in your sugar levels, so you’ll think more clearly,” says Lauren

Slayton, RD.

Take a deep breath If your breathing is shallow your blood may be low in oxygen

and high in carbon monoxide, says Dr. Cotter, making you feel

groggy. Try this trick to breathe deeper: Every time the phone

rings, imagine bringing your breath all the way up through your

feet. “It may sound odd, but it will force you to take more full

breaths throughout the day,” says Dr. Cotter.

BY LESLiE PEPPER


February/March 2010 | McKinney Woman 11www.northtexasmagazines.com

Crank up some tunes Put some of your kids’ music on the disc player and bust-a-

move together.

Wash your face If you’re pressed for time, simply splash cold water on your face.

If you can spare a few minutes, wash with some peppermint

soap, or put a few drops of peppermint essential oil on a wet

washcloth and breathe in the vapors.

ExerciseIt doesn’t have to be a half hour on the treadmill (okay, you can

stop laughing now). As little as five minutes of aerobic exercise

can bring oxygen to the muscles, making you feel more alert. Try

jumping rope, a dash up and down the steps (bring the laundry

basket with you) or a few minutes of neck limbering (look right

and left, look up and down, make 1/2 circles to the front).

Depuff your eyesMoisten green tea bags with water, chill them in the fridge, then

set the chilled bags over your eyes. The anti-inflammatory poly-

phenols in the green tea combined with the cold bags will reduce

swelling, says Fredric Brandt, MD.

Step away from the breadbox! Bread is high on the glycemic index -- it enters your bloodstream

the quickest and satisfies you for the least amount of time,

sending your blood sugar, and you, crashing. Instead: Grab a

handful of high-fiber cereal, whole grain pretzels, raw almonds,

or healthy trail mix. Add protein – like organic string cheese – to

keep you satisfied longer and increase dopamine production,

a brain chemical that helps you stay alert. Lean protein also

raises the level of tyrosine in the brain, an amino acid that helps

promote alertness.

Clear some clutterMail piling up? Haven’t seen the top of your desk since 2008?

Pick one clutter cluster to purge and see how much lighter

you feel.

Fake it with makeupTo create a light and bright look for your eyes, dot some con-

cealer under your eyes and in the inner hollows between the eye

and the nose, says makeup artist Rea Ann Silva, who has worked

with Jennifer Garner, Kerry Washington and Christina Aguilera.

Line the inner rims of your eyes with flesh colored soft eye pencil,

use an eyelash curler and apply black mascara. If you’ve got

time, use a cream blush or bronzer on the apples of your cheek to

give your face some color.

Chew a wad of gum Try peppermint to stimulate your senses. MWM

LESLiE PEPPER is a Merrick, NY writer specializing in health and parenting.

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The owner of Rene’s Lagniappe Salon. She has been in the beauty industry for over 30 years and has had the privilege of studying in Europe and the US. Rene is a Redken Certified Colorist and Pureology Educator.

Committed to giving back to the community, Rene donates her services to the Samaritan Inn offering free haircuts. She is working with the Boyd High School students to go green at the salon and participates in the special education program. She is a member of the McKinney Chamber and Women’s Alliance of McKinney, also the American Cancer Society, National Cosmetology Association, and President of the Texas Association of Beauty Professionals. Rene’ serves on the board of the Chestnut Square in McKinney and Collin County Event Professionals. In 2009 Rene’s salon was awarded the Business Services Award. Rene’s promise is ‘a little something extra’ at Rene’s Lagniappe Salon.

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Cynthia Elliot VanLandingham received her Fashion Design and Merchandising degrees from Texas Tech University in 1985. This year marks Cynthia Elliot Boutique’s 19th year in business. She credits her success to

the careful attention to detail, made when buying the clothing designs. We are known for the unusual and different. Our client’s needs span from the high school formals to casual wear for young moms, with special emphasis on the baby boomers and beyond. Pertaining to our formals, only one of a style per color are stocked to make your selection unique. One of a kind jewelry pieces are created to coordinate with these dresses. With the challenging economy, Cynthia strives to give you your best bang for your buck! We have a no-interest Layaway, and there is always a sale going on. We also encourage our clients to bring in things, so we may revamp their wardrobes. The boutique is an elegant retreat that you won’t want to leave. Over 40 designers are featured throughout the year, so there is something for everyone.

CYNTHIA ELLIOT BOUTIQUE972-562-8004See ad on page 9

Cynthia Elliot VanLandinghamMy 25 year design career has been a journey. Design school in Seattle taught me to express my colorful view. Corporate relocations and bank renovations kept me busy in Chicago. When faux finishing became

trendy, my artistic side enjoyed painting while we moved from Denver, to Atlanta, then finally to McKinney! Since 2006, “Acanthus” has become known for our originality, great prices, and diverse showcase of local art. Our recent move to the Market Street shopping center let us expand our lines to include Tyler Candles and Trollbeads. We are excited about our semi-custom drapery program that begins in 2010! Every client is unique, and their space should reflect who they are! Visit us soon to plan your home make-over!

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women in Business Annual SpotlightMWM

Clinic Esthetica, under the direction of Judith Graves, M.D., has been providing aesthetic services in McKinney since 2002. The clinic offers nonsurgical cosmetic procedures including Restylane, Juvederm,

Botox Cosmetic injections and Fotofacial treatments. Dr. Graves also provides a complete line of physician only skin care that is designed to complement nonsurgical treatments. At Clinic Esthetica you will receive a personalized approach to insure complete attention to your special skin care needs in a professional and comfortable environment.

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Judith Graves, M.D.

Kathy Garland is a transformational leader and speaker who says “Yes!” to women leaders so they can say “Yes!” to themselves. She is deeply committed and passionate about awakening personal power in women

leaders who want to change their lives and grow their businesses. She has guided hundreds of women-owned businesses to create the business and brand focus that increases sales and profits. Earlier in her career, she consulted with companies such as Royal Caribbean International, 3M, Northwest Airlines and American Express and led sales in a company that resulted in nearly 1000% growth. As a speaker, Kathy offers power-packed, thoughtful presentations that allow participants to create positive change and growth. Her programs deliver rave reviews and requests to come back.

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Kathy GarlandOrdinary Women…Extraordinary Results! That’s what you will find at Mckinney Boot Camps. Our mission is to improve the lives of women through fitness. All camps are led by a certified personal trainer,

so you can get training at a fraction of the cost! No two workouts are the same, and all exercises are shown at beginner, intermediate and advanced levels. Don’t let the term boot camp scare you. Melody isn’t a military style instructor…but you will be challenged to work hard. We use a variety of equipment so your body won’t plateau! We are indoors for the winter – and out of the cold! Melody is a mom to 3 kids, and has been in the fitness industry for 7 years. She is an AFAA certified trainer and Stonebridge Ranch resident. Want to join in on the fun? You can find us at www.mckinneybootcamps.com or call 972.984.9971

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February/March 2010 | McKinney Woman 1�www.northtexasmagazines.com

With over 30 years in the insurance business Deborah Toney serves her clients with dedication and integrity. One of the first things that Ms Toney’s clients learn when they meet her is her

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women in Business Annual Spotlight

Dr. Rhonda Hopkins and Dr. Ann Snyder are Board Certified Family Physicians and are co-owners of Snyder-Hopkins Family Medicine Center. Their motto

is “we treat the whole family… like family. From babies to grandparents, Snyder-Hopkins Family Medicine is ready to serve almost every health need, including: • Routine Healthcare • Well exam visits for men, women and children • Chronic illnesses: elevated cholesterol, hypertension, diabetes • Acute illnesses: sore throats, respiratory infections In addition to their McKinney location, they also own Prosper Family Medicine clinic that opened for business March 1, 2007, in the Prosper Town Center.

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Ann Snyder, M.D. &Rhonda Hopkins, M.D.

Dr. Gina Harney, a Board Certified Dermatologist, has been in private practice in the north Texas area since 1999. She moved her office, Dermatology & Skin Surgery, to Mckinney this past year. She

welcomes patients of all ages and treats the full-spectrum of skin conditions, including skin cancers, acne, growths and rashes. Her office strives to provide each patient with the personal service they deserve and offers immediate appointments for urgent concerns. She does accept all major insurance, including Medicare. Call to schedule a FREE skin cancer screening.

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Gina Harney, MD, FAADAbout six years ago, when I became a mother myself I found myself confused, overwhelmed and feeling very alone. When I finally came out of my depression, I reached out to other moms and realized that many

of them shared many of the same feelings I experienced. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, “Supermom” Coach, Speaker and recognized leader in the treatment of anxiety, fear, depression, and sexual trauma, I am passionate about empowering women and “Supermoms” to live a more balanced and joyful life. My life experiences together with my education from the University of North Texas have prepared me to work with a variety of issues. I am proud to offer: Individual Counseling, Supermom Coaching and group support through our Supermom Empowerment League.

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That Elegant Touch Salon and Day Spa opened its doors eleven years ago. Our mission since inception has been to provide McKinney and nearby residents with exceptional salon and spa services and

products, at modest pricing, in an atmosphere of total indulgence and complete relaxation. Our focus is you. A more beautiful, vibrant, refreshed you. We pride ourselves on unhurried personalized care, high-tech oriented treatments and visible results. As a McKinney resident of twenty years, I am honored and privileged to serve this community. I am actively involved in The Women’s Alliance of McKinney, the Stonebridge Ranch Ladies Association and serve as an ambassador for the McKinney Chamber of Commerce. We also partner with the American Cancer Society in the Locks of Love program. That Elegant Touch, where it’s not “just” about you, it’s “all” about you.

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Cindy SafstromAsk Eliska Counce what her job is, and she’ll say being mom to three special children under the age of six. Her resume, however, states that she is a licensed professional counselor and Director of

Transforming Tomorrows Counseling Center on the McKinney downtown square. Eliska is a self-professed peace broker and change agent who has made strengthening Collin County families her business. Offering a holistic approach to treatment…giving consideration to mind, body, and spirit…is only one quality that sets Eliska apart from other, “good enough” counselors. Her unique ability to help women craft individualized wellness plans has given her the reputation of facilitating quick results. Eliska also offers free seminars for local organizations. Read more about Eliska’s unique approach at her website or call her office.

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1� McKinney Woman | February/March 2010 www.northtexasmagazines.com

The Divine LineMWM BY MARY BANASCOMMuNiTY LiFE CHuRCH

Sounds so simple doesn’t it? Yet there are so many things that

seemingly assault our heart daily. The mere fact that we live

amongst fallible people and they live around us, makes us all

vulnerable to hurt, resentment, unforgiveness and bitterness.

While we can be watchful, we cannot always prevent being hurt

or protect those we love from heartache. Though resentment,

unforgiveness and bitterness might slip in as a result, it is up to

us to remove it with all diligence. We want to keep our heart pure

of offense, because life flows from it. We dip out of the same well

to give and receive life. We want to be careful to remove all the

pollutants lest we become a conduit of them.

To keep our heart pure from offense, we have to walk in a

constant state of forgiveness. (Which includes forgiving others,

God and even ourselves) This is always a challenge to a hurting

heart, we believe bitterness is our best defense or unforgiveness

is somehow punishing those whom we perceived wronged us.

The parable of the unmerciful servant found in Matthew 18: 21-35

illustrates the importance of giving and receiving forgiveness. I

see myself so clearly in him. When it comes to my sin, my failure

and those I have sinned against I want grace and mercy. But

when it comes to your sin and your wounds that have harmed me

or anyone else, I want justice.

Yet Scripture is clear “just as the Lord forgave, so also should

I forgive. I think this quote by John Perkins says it so well: “As

long as we keep ourselves chained to the unforgiven we give

them rent free space in our mind, emotional shackles to our

hearts, and the right to torment us in the small hours of the night.”

Who wants that? My unwillingness to forgive brings me even

greater emotional pain and turmoil? It forfeits the forgiveness

God has granted me? No thank you. Our offenders even if they

wanted to cannot go back and change what was said or done.

That is why it is so important to release them to God. He has the

capacity and one day will judge all.

In reality, forgiveness is one of the great faith challenges to our

Christian walk. Forgiveness doesn’t mean that we approve or

excuse the actions that caused pain. God would never call some-

thing evil good and does not ask us to either. We have to choose

to forgive as an act of our will, not necessarily based on feelings.

We have to release all bitterness and resentment. We have to

come to the place that we can treat our offender as if he never

offended us. That is exactly the way Christ forgave us.

This season, let’s take care of our own heart (keep, protect,

guard), knowing that when we do, we increase our capacity to

love others more fully, more unconditionally. MWM

MARY BANAS is the mother of four and wife of Mike Banas, Pastor of Community Life Church in McKinney.

Watch over your heart with all diligence, for out of it flows the springs of life. Proverbs 4:23



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As an auto injury expert, Dr. Arora knows what to look for. With years of experience and leading-edge technology to help him spot problems, he can stop your pain fast.

Why worry? Dr. Arora has helped over 2,000 McKinney residents feel better for life with the latest treatments in back and neck care. Call now, and let him check the damage with a free exam.

FREESpinal examination for new patients($150 Value) Includes:Complete spinal analysis - to ensure your good healthMotion tests - to see why you have trouble movingMuscle tests - to see why you’re stiffNeurological and orthopedic exams - to detect nerve or disc damagePrivate consultation with the doctor - to make your options clear

MCKINNEY PAIN &WELLNESS CENTER

Call now: 972.540.6630for your free exam

www.mckinneypwc.comwww.McKinneyPainRelief.com/5

2600 Eldorado Parkway, Suite 100(Two blocks west of I-75)

Dr. Puneet AroraDoctor of Chiropractic

Empowering WomenMWM BY KATHY GARLAND

if you set goals each year, you know it can be difficult to stay focused. About this time every year, gym attendance drops and people slowly return to their old habits.

What separates those of us who achieve our New Year’s Resolutions

and those who don’t? It’s probably different for everyone. However,

I have a formula that’s easy to remember that will keep you on track if

you apply it in your life.

It’s the STAR formula. Let’s look at each of the parts of the equation.

‘S’ is for Systems. In order to achieve a goal, you must have a

system to measure and monitor your progress. Without a way to

measure, you won’t know how you are doing. Let’s say you want

to lose 10 pounds. Your solution is to go to the gym three times a

week. A simple system is to have a paper calendar in a visible place

and mark on the calendar each time you go to the gym. Anything you

measure will most likely move forward.

To measure sales, use spreadsheets or code your electronic calendar

green when you have income-generating appointments.

‘T’ is for Team. Who do you turn to for support for ideas, motiva-

tion and resources? Do you need a personal trainer to keep you

focused and working to your potential? One of my friends, Donna, is

on my team. We go to the gym together and it makes the time go by

faster. She also works hard, so it keeps me moving.

For sales, who is your power team that refers you business? Who can

you call on when you need additional expertise for a proposal? These

are important people to have on your team.

‘A’ is for Accountability. Accountability is telling someone

what you want to achieve and asking them to support you and keep

you focused. It is also writing down your specific goals so you can

refer to them throughout the year. Build in accountability to your goals

and notice what a difference it makes. You will be more motivated.

Best bets for accountability – hire a coach, develop a reciprocal

buddy system, share your goals with a mentor and meet regularly

or talk on the phone with your accountability partner to discuss your

progress or where you might be stalled.

‘R’ is for Right Attitude. Finally, you will be much more

successful at achieving your New Year’s Resolutions and goals if

you have a positive, can-do attitude. You have to know (not just

believe) that you can do what you say you are going to do. What’s

realistic for you? Eliminate the ‘shoulds’ from your goals and focus

on what you really want.

The right attitude is much easier if you take care of your health

and well-being and don’t overload yourself with commitments

and projects.

If you feel that you are losing your focus and motivation, one thing

you can do is go to YouTube and search for videos on reaching

goals and give yourself a few minutes of motivation.

You can also call me for a complimentary coaching session on

reaching your goals. Contact me through my website at

www.kathygarland.com. MWM

KATHY GARLAND, www.kathygarland.com is a transformational leader, speaker and trainer who works with women to increase their personal power, develop their business and leadership skills and create focus for the future. She resides in McKinney and works with clients both across the U. S. and Canada.

Stay on track with your New Year’s Resolutions


mckinney woman magazine february/march 2010 issue

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