FEBRUARY 2014Lexington’s Fashion & Lifestyle Magazine

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FEBDEAR READERS

LEXI ASKS

LEXSTREET STYLE

TREND HUNTING

GOTTA TRY IT

MEET THE PRO; 28

INTERNATIONAL LOVE STORY; 32

MIX IT UP WATCH & LEARN

WORK IT OUT

ROMANCING THE SENSES; 35

HOT SPOT

UNIQUE DATES

WEAR RED; 14

FEBRUARY LOVES FASHION; 8

Catch up with Tamra & Maggie and see what they have to say about the month of love; 7

Lexi asked you, “What was your BEST or WORST date experience?” See the answers; 6

See who MOUR picked as February’s Lexstreet Style Setters; 13

Love is in the air and so are some of the hottest trends of the year; 10

Doing yoga....in the air...see what we have to say about that; 27

Jon Shouldis (MOUR’s go-to food and drink enthusiast) is sharing his recipe for the perfect love potion; 29

DIY gifts are always in style. Here’s a great idea for that special someone in your life; 33

Float like a butterfly...sting like bee...are you the next Ali?; 30

Single on Valentine’s Day? Not to worry, we have the best spots for you to be on that day with family, friends or just YOU; 31

Tired of the same old date nights? Retire the norm and try one of these awesome date ideas; 34

ARYRU

{4

our team

writers

graphic design

photography

editorial creative direction & STYLING

hair & makeup

chief editorsMaggie Christensen & Tamra Graves

Lee Ann Christensen

Maui Crane & Tamra Graves

Paul Bradley, Cristian Caballero, Clay Cook

Maggie Christensen & Roy Yeung

Lauren Allen, Ceci Amador, Jess Breier, Jessica Caudill, Lee Ann Christensen, Heather Kimberling,

Jon Shouldis, Shanda Snyder

Natalie Freebersyser, Alden Krausse, Karah Olivia Miller, Brianna Newman, Leah Pennybaker

Ana Crane & Daniel Farmer

copy editor

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Give the one you love...the gift of fabulous hair!

LEXI ASKS...WHAT IS YOUR BEST OR WORST DATE EXPERIENCE?

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UH-OH!

SO SWEET!

WOW!AWKWARD!

To “Ask Lexi” or participate in “Lexi Asks” visit www.moumagazine.com/ask-lexi

I had just finished dinner with my date and she was dropping me off at my apartment. We had only been on a few dates, but before I got out of the car she said, “Wait, I have something for you.” She handed me a teddy bear pendant that was given to her by her grandfather. Then said, “I’m so sure that you’re gonna marry me one day. I want you to have this.” Needless to say, I handed it right back

and I was outta there!-Jason

My boyfriend & I were having a HUGE fight, his fault of course! To try to make it up to me, he took me to a nice restaurant we both had wanted to try. Instead of a wonderful, romantic night, it was awkward! The food was terrible and way

overpriced! At least he tried?!?!-Milly

I had been dating my boyfriend for a very short time when he asked me to not

make plans for that upcoming weekend. I thought he just didn’t feel like going out that weekend, no

big deal. When I got home from work, he gave me an hour to get ready and said we had somewhere to be. We ended up having reservations at a nice hotel restaurant. I thought it was just dinner, but the

sweetness didn’t stop there. When dinner was over, he led me up to our room where I found a paper trail of sticky notes leading me from one to the next where it stopped at my pillow. Under the pillow was a journal (I love to write). Then he said, “I want you to write about

your goals and dreams and about us because I’m going to be in your life for a long time.” I melted.

-Ann

I had just completed a training program when randomly a guy, who was in my class

and had never spoken to me, messaged me for a date. I agreed to go and immediately the strangeness began. It started when he asked me to meet him halfway between

my place and his (we live in 2 different cities). I thought, don’t men pick you up anymore? Just as I was about to arrive at

our meeting place, he texted me that he forgot his wallet and had to turn around to get it. So there I sit, waiting. Once he

finally arrives, he looks me up and down and then says, “You look good”, in a way that would indicate he was surprised! Lunch begins and he talks the ENTIRE time. I couldn’t get a word in! As the date comes to an end, he says something

that actually makes me laugh and for some reason decides that’s when he should go in for a kiss. Weird! At the end of it

all, he felt so bad he asked if we could just start over. I reached out my hand and said, “Hi, I’m Missy.”

And we’ve been together since!-Missy

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We know that February often

focuses on the relationships between our boyfriends, girlfriends, spouses or

partners and us, and while we’re happy to celebrate our loved ones, what about the

relationship with ourselves?

This month we want you to treat yourself. Find something you love to do, something you are

passionate about and that truly makes you happy. Don’t forget to love YOURSELF. A happy healthy

you is so important.

All the rest is just a bonus!

D

earReaders,

Tamra + M

aggie

From an early age, I experimented with various aspects of design. I made my first cone-shaped breasts out of newsprint

for my teddy bear Nana. —Jean Paul Gaultier

The Brooklyn Museum“The Fashion World of Jean Paul Gaultier:

From the Sidewalk to the Catwalk”October 25, 2013–February 23, 2014

www.brooklynmuseum.org

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MOUR FASHION

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fashion

February is the month of LOVE and we are LOVING what that means for the fashion world. One of MOUR’S Editorial Creative Directors, Maui Crane, shares with us a few of his favorite pics from his visit to the Jean Paul Gaultier exhibit in New York and Maui’s beautiful work with MOUR Photographer Cristian Caballero at The Grand Reserve.

Red Dress Photo: Photography: Cristian Caballero | Editorial Director, Wardrobe Stylist, Accessory Designer: Maui Crane | Model: Brianna Newman | Hair: Daniel Farmer | Make Up: Ana CraneAssistant: Bryce Ricketts | Dress: Bella Rose Boutique | Location: The Grand Reserve | Edited by Catherine Lacy | Exhibit Photos by Maui Crane

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L O (WE’RE) V Ewe’re in lovewith pops of red and snug tops!

Although Spring is right around the corner, we’re not there yet. Stay warm in RED! Layer your blousy Spring tops with toasty knits.

CLOTHING PHOTOS: PAUL BRADLEY

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MOUR FASHION

@TREND HUNTING

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Join us for lunch, dinner or a late night treat!We offer private party accommodations & live weekend music!

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1. 2.3.1. CHRISTINA

PERSONAL STYLISTFAV PLACES TO SHOP: ANTHROPOLOGY, NORDSTROM &

ASOS.COMCAN’T LIVE WITHOUT: MY REBECCA MINKOFF CROSS-BODY BAG - IT’S SO VERSATILE. I WEAR IT YEAR-ROUND

FOR BASICALLY EVERY OCCASION.

2. JORDYNMERCHANDISING, APPAREL & TEXTILES/MARKETING

STUDENT @ UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKYFAV PLACES TO SHOP: J CREW, BLUETIQUE & FRANCESCA’SDREAM JOB: STYLIST AT TORY BURCH OR MICHAEL KORS

3. CLAYVISUAL DIRECTOR, DILLARDS

FAV PLACES TO SHOP: J CREW, FOXHOUSE VINTAGE & RALPH LAUREN DEPARTMENT AT DILLARDS

TREND I LOVE: PATTERN MIXING“I’M NOTORIOUS FOR THROWING ON 10 PATTERNS AT ONCE. I THINK THE KEY TO DOING IT WELL IS TO MAKE IT LOOK REFINED & POLISHED LIKE PRADA SPRING 2014 -

OTHERWISE THE TREND CAN GO SO WRONG!”

PHOTO BY JENNA ANDERSON

PHOTO BY CRISTIAN CABALLERO

PHOTO BY REBECCA GRATZ

LEXSTREET STYLE MOUR FASHION

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MOUR FASHION

Wear red, be fabulous& love your heart

WRITTEN BY HEATHER KIMBERLING | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CLAY COOK | EDITORIAL CREATIVE DIRECTION BY MAUI CRANE

Model: Natalie FreebersyserCoat - Bella RoseAccessories - Dillards

While most women were lying down for the night, thankful for their family, proud to be a mom, Tammy Isaacs went to bed this particular Mother’s Day, eight years ago, with different thoughts racing through her mind. “What if something is wrong with me? Who will take care of my family?” She lay there for two hours before she made the decision that it was time to go to the emergency room. Within an hour, she was surrounded by people drawing blood, injecting meds through her IV, and arranging transport to another hospital. Final verdict for Tammy at 36 years old: heart attack.

A similar story rings true for Stephanie Pegg. At 49 years old, her first heart attack occurred in July of 2013. While Tammy and Stephanie had different symptoms, both had universal signs of a heart attack. Tammy describes her symptoms as constant heartburn all day with a dull pain in the upper part of her back. When she went to bed that night, she felt like there was a lump in her throat, and was overcome with nausea and shoulder pain. Stephanie states it was a feeling of pressure in the middle of her chest, as if someone was “poking me with their finger and kept applying more pressure that would radiate outward.” Stephanie, also, had a heavy suffocating feeling which she was told by her doctor was due to her heart working so hard without the proper oxygen being distributed.

There’s a myth of sorts in this area: that you have to be completely overweight, not take care of yourself at all, or have a family history to have a heart attack. While these are all risk factors related to heart disease, a heart attack can happen to anyone, at anytime. Tammy and Stephanie both smoked, but, on the whole, they were both, in a non-mythical way, healthy. When Tammy’s doctor got the call about her heart attack, he was convinced they had the wrong patient. Model: Karah Olivia Miller

Gown - Bella Rose BoutiqueJewelry - AccessHERize

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Model: Leah PennybakerGown - DillardsAccessories - AccessHERize

Model: Alden KrausseGown - Bella Rose BoutiqueHeels & Accessories - DillardsScarves - Calypso Boutique

Model: Leah PennybakerTartan Vintage Pencil Skirt & Vintage Crystal Colonel Tie - Pops ResaleAccessories - AccessHERize

Model: Karah Olivia Miller Fur Coat with Hood - Embry’sShorts - Black Market BoutiqueAccessories - AccessHERize

As we make our way into February, we have no choice but to think of the heart. Pictures of Cupid and hearts of all sizes and colors are plastered on every corner you turn. Teddy Bears with pink shirts holding a chocolate rose or a small box of heart shaped candy fill display shelves. People are swarming the card aisles for the perfect card to express their love. February is not only the month for the Valentine’s Day heart, but it’s a month for health. Heart health. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), cardiovascular diseases and stroke are

the top causes of death for women in Kentucky and most states. Now is the time to reevaluate the way you live and your life. Do it for your family and, most importantly, for you.

Even after Tammy and Stephanie had their heart attacks, they struggled to live a completely healthy life. Stress and eating habits are a constant struggle. Slow changes make big differences. I encourage you to get online and go to the AHA website. They have many resources and suggestions when it comes to changing your lifestyle. From how to quit smoking, information on healthy and unhealthy foods, stress management, and helping your children to become more active are just a few of the topics. Their “Life’s Simple 7” is the best place to start. Basic guidelines to achieving a healthier you, they are: get active, control cholesterol, eat better, manage blood pressure, lose weight, reduce blood pressure, and stop smoking. Model: Alden Krausse

Gown, Earrings & Heels - DillardsFur Coat - Embry’sNecklace - AccessHERizeScarves - Calypso Boutique

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Tammy and Stephanie have become a voice to those around them with their story. Tammy’s daughter continues to use her mom’s story to encourage others to lead a healthy life. She has written poems and done her own research to make sure her family history doesn’t affect her own heart health. Stephanie has encouraged her family to read labels of all food. You have no idea how much sodium you take in on a daily basis. Once you take the time to plan out meals and read nutrition labels, you start to realize a change is being made. This change includes being at home more, slowing down your life and realizing you don’t have to be so rushed. Stephanie and her husband, Jim, take the time to cook at home rather than eating out all the time. This has allowed for more time together while slowly taking control of her heart health and the life around her.

Each one of you reading this article either has a history of heart disease or you know a woman who does or who has suffered from a heart attack. February 7th is National Wear Red Day. I encourage you to make a statement this day and be a voice for this disease. Know the facts while be stylishly fabulous in red. “Go Red for Women.”

Loving someone, being loved, loving yourself, eating healthy, being happy, listening to your body, finding your strength, recovering from a broken romance, building a healing relationship, all of these tie right back to the main source of life: the heart. When your heart is healthy, your whole body is healthy. You stand up straighter, you smile more, you feel powerful and in control of the one life that is given to you. Wear red, be fabulous and love your heart.

Model: Natalie Freebersyser Dress, Accessories & Heels - DillardsTop Hat & Belt - Pop’s Resale

Model: Karah Olivia MillerDress & Earrings - DillardsNecklace - AccessHERize

PHOTOGRAPHY: CLAY COOK (CLAY COOK PHOTOGRAPHY)

EDITORIAL CREATIVE DIRECTION: MAUI CRANE

WARDROBE STYLING: MAUI CRANE, TAMRA GRAVES & CLAY MASTERS

HAIR & MAKEUP: ANA CRANE (ACS)

BEHIND THE SCENES: CATHERLINE LACY (C.LACY PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEO)

HISTORIC HOME: OWNED BY JOHN WILKIRSON OF JANUARY ANTIQUES

IMAGES FROM: LONGANDLUXE.COM & PINTEREST.COM

OUR INSPIRATION:

editorial team:

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COVER IMAGE | FEBRUARY 2014

MOUR FASHION

our 22nd yearCelebrating

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PRIVATE CLASSESThe Lansdowne Shoppes859.268.3382 | gottadancelex.org

OPEN HOUSEAugust 17th • 10:00am-1:00pm | Register Today!

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videography as well as engagement photos, family sessions, senior portraits, events and

model portfolios.

www.mourbrides.cominfo@mourbrides.com

Photo by Cristian CaballeroCreative Direction & Clothing by Mauricio CraneModeled by Gabrielle Sabad

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MOUR FASHION

Gotta Try ItAerial Yoga

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Mix on Vine hosts a variety of fitness classes- one of those being aerial yoga. This practice incorporates traditional yoga with a freshly designed element. A fabric hammock is connected to the ceiling allowing users to achieve more distinguished yoga poses with the stabilization of the fabric. This practice of yoga incorporates balance, strength, and flexibility. Defying gravity is an essential component that trademarks this form of aerobic exercise. Our writers reveal both of their first time experiences trying

out this unique class.

By: Lauren Allen & Shanda Snyder

Photography: Paul Bradley

MOUR HEALTH & BEAUTY

Shanda SnyderI am constantly reminding myself to try new things and push my limits beyond my comfort zone. As someone who enjoys working out and the general rush of being competitive and perfecting new hobbies, aerial yoga seemed to be the ideal class in which to immerse myself. The fabric hammocks and general concept of doing yoga poses in the air seemed intimidating at first, but once the instructor assured the class that we wouldn’t kill ourselves, and most of the attendees were first timers as well, I had an absolute blast with it.

While I was skeptical that this class wouldn’t really “work me out”, I was completely wrong. As I was sweating and maneuvering into positions I didn’t know I was capable of, I remembered that trying new things can change your perception (kind of like realizing the biker dude with all of the tattoos is a humanitarian and obsessed with opera). This class taught me agility, balance and the confidence to try something new even if I am unsure that I’m capable.

Lauren AllenWhen I was asked to attend the aerial yoga class, my first thought was “I do Zumba all the time, this will be the same thing!” Not. This group exercise class pushed me out of my comfort zone and into poses that had me working muscles that I had never used before. Not only was I using muscles to hold myself up off the ground, but I was also using my stomach to laugh at myself throughout the class.

Once I got past the awkward feelings from trying something new, I moved into feelings of amazement from doing things that I never thought I could do like handstands and half-moon and warrior poses. Being a swimmer most of my life, land fitness has never been my forte, but having the hammock there to support me helped tremendously.

Aerial yoga is something that everyone should try at least once in their life just to say they did it. Whether they are a yogi or someone like me who considers shopping exercise, you will be able to enjoy it, but be prepared to sweat and work harder than you ever have before!

MIX ON VINE | MIXONVINE.COM SHANDA (LEFT) & LAUREN (RIGHT)

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MOUR HEALTH & BEAUTY

Boisterous laughter, rich scents of lavish cheeses and meats, fine china clinking together, reveals the apparent scene of a joyous gathering, an intimate setting in a candlelit room, intertwined with the strong aroma of delicious red wines.

This is the image Sergio Sgro will paint in your mind when disclosing the history of his intimate, family owned business, and what a meal in Italy looks like- an indissoluble bond.

With parents who immigrated to America from Italy, Sergio was constantly enveloped in his rich Italian heritage. As a young boy, Sergio recalls his parents receiving packages in the mail from family in Italy. Rich cheeses, salami, and homemade wines were never a rarity to their family because having close ties in Italy made it readily available. As he grew, it took no time for the realization to spark of this exclusive experience he was being granted. With close knit relationships with the vendors in Italy that produced the wine, Sergio decided this was something he wanted to educate American culture about and bring an awareness with the distribution of fine Italian wine. Though, it wasn’t just about the wine for him. “Everyone knows what it (Italian cuisine) is- but they don’t really know.”

When I spoke with Sergio, he made a few things apparent. Di Vino Wines is not just an operation he runs. It isn’t just a business. It is his family. His passion. It is a part of him.

What is intriguing about these wines is that they are one of a kind- carefully crafted. Similar to comparing a couture gown with a mass-produced dress you’d buy in a department store, this line of wine is one to be cherished. The grapes are handpicked in the vineyards of Italy, prepared with patience and adoration from the same soil they have been planted in for hundreds of years. Those that contribute to the production pour their heart into their brand, working in the rain, snow, and putting in countless hours because they deeply respect their product and hope others take the same approach. This intimate collaboration isn’t just about one man (as Sergio told me)- it is about his wife, his team, and his customers. Di Vino Wines are more than merely just another brand of

wines you see displayed on a shelf at a liquor store or one you are given the option to try at a tasting. The beautifully structured recipes overflow with excellence and decadent flavors of berries, sweet spices, and an undeniable tannic structure. With multiple flavor variations, one bottle of this wine and your taste buds will be seduced by an Italian delight and merged into the history itself.

The ultimate desire of Di Vino Wholesalers is for the American public to really get a sincere taste of Italy. The culture. The scene. The tradition. And, most importantly, the foundation from which good wine thrives - family meals and gatherings. Imagine the scene from “The Godfather” in which the Italian family is drinking and feasting together. (Minus the mobsters and guns, of course.) This wine is meant to fit into any event or celebration. It is a way of life in Italy and Sergio strives to imbed this embrace of Italian tradition with his consumers here.

Perhaps one of the most intriguing aspects of Di Vino Wine are the two red wines they have available that are approved by the Migraine Police. Three out of ten people suffer from headaches and migraines triggered by red wine. The Veglio Dolcetto d’Alba and the Veglio Barbera d’Alba, bearing the red wine MigrainePolice.com seal of approval, are certified to be low in both histamines and tannins- common triggers of red wine headaches. These rare finds are only available in Kentucky (through Di Vino) and have been shown in studies of their success. Sergio is delighted to endorse a product that will grant previous headache sufferers the opportunity to indulge in the great tradition wine brings.

Simply put, this line of fine wines is exactly how we like to drink it: perfectly mature, diverse, and ready to tantalize our palate.

Find out where you can get Di Vino Wines at:http://divinowholesale.com/

Meet The Pro

BY SHANDA SNYDER - PHOTO PROVIDED BY DI VINO WINES

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MOUR HEALTH & BEAUTY

Ingredients:1/2 oz Vanilla Vodka1 oz Elderflower LiqueurPomegranate SeedsRose Cava

Preparation:Combine pomegranate seeds, Vanilla Vodka & Elderflower Liqueur, pour into glass and top with Rose Cava.

( Cradle of Love )

BY JON SHOULDIS | PHOTO BY JEANETTE ALVAREZ HART

CunaAmorde

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MOUR HEALTH & BEAUTY

Inspired by a family trip to Spain, I decided to create a riff on the delicious Sangria we had every night we were there. ENJOY!

Head over to: mourmagazine.com/mixitupfor a special recipe from

your MOUR chef, Jon Shouldis!

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MOUR HEALTH & BEAUTY

BOX it OUTPUNCHES

SQUATSPUNCH SERIES

LUNGES

BY: CECI AMADOR

WORK IT OUT

The time has long been gone since ‘you hit like a girl’ was an insult to guys. With the 2012 London Olympic Games introducing Women’s Boxing as an Olympic sport, boxing has gained popularity among women of all ages, and with good reason.

Whether you are a fan of boxing as a sport or not, there is a lot more to it than just throwing some punches here and there. Boxing is a full-body cardio workout that will increase your strength, coordination, and agility while toning your body through high repetition movements.

Michael Olajide, former boxing professional and now owner of a boxing club in New York, has designed a boxing workout especially for women. Here are some exercises from Olajide’s drills for you to try out. Warm up with a jump rope or jumping jacks for 5 minutes, taking no more than 30 second breaks between each minute.

Stand with your feet hip-width apart, one in front of the other with your knees slightly bent. Bring your fists up, keeping your elbows close to your body. From here, take one fist and punch out turning your torso as your arm reaches forward. Alternate left and right punches for 5 times and then 8 times as fast as you can. (Remember to always keep your knees bent and to turn your torso with the punches.)

Place your feet hip-width apart, bend your knees and lower your body as much as you can, keeping your thighs as parallel to the ground as possible. Remember to let your knees not be over or in front of your toes. Do as many reps as you can in 30 seconds and then hold the last one for 5-10 seconds. Repeat 3 times.

Jab, Power (Cross) Punch, Uppercut, HookGo to boxing stance (feet hip-width apart, one in front of the other, knees slightly bent) and begin throwing the punches slowly. Do 12 reps. For this exercise, it is important that you twist your torso with the movements as well as let your back ankle lift from the floor if necessary. Switch sides and do 12 reps slowly. Switch sides again and do 16 reps as quickly as you can. Switch sides without a break and do 16 more reps.

Step one foot forward and bend your knees until your thigh is almost parallel to the ground. Go back to the starting position and repeat 8 times. Switch the leg and repeat again.

Glove Im

age: ww

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w.daydaily.com

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MOUR LIFE

Valentine’s Day is a day meant to celebrate love. Typically, this day is ‘saved’ for people in a relationship celebrating their passionate love, but why not celebrate the love that you have for yourself or your friends? If you are not in a relationship, start a new tradition by getting together a group of friends, go out and have some fun. No more lying in bed, eating cookie dough while crying over The Notebook. It is time to make this holiday your own. Here are some ideas to get you out and about on Valentine’s Day.

Shakespeare and Co., located in downtown Lexington, is decorated in such a way that you feel like you are in a Shakespeare play (the happy parts). You will have the choice of either a classic table or sofa with coffee table setting. This is the perfect place for dinner and a glass of wine (or 2) with your girlfriends.www.shakespeareandco.us

If you like to get out and learn new things, take a tour at Woodford Reserve. The tour takes you through the fermentation, bottling and storing of their bourbon. And the best part? There is a bourbon tasting and all you can eat bourbon balls! As a personal recommendation, you should definitely try the carrot cake from their cafe. It is worth a trip there just for that. www.woodfordreserve.com

A trip to the movies is always a fun option with friends or by yourself. G.B.F. (Gay Best Friend) is in theaters and looks like a great comedy. The nice thing about this film is that it is not romantic, so you don’t have to worry about wishing you could be that perfect couple in the movie, and you can eat all of the buttery popcorn and chocolate you want without worrying about looking bad in front of your significant other.

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OT SPOT

PHOTO FROM SHAKESPEAREANDCO.US

PHOTO FROM WOODFORDRESERVE.COM

PHOTO FROM IMBD.COM

BY LAUREN ALLEN

This is no ordinary love story—although, what’s ordinary nowadays?

Once upon a time, my uncle met a woman while vacationing in China. The two dated, long-distance, for about eighteen months. One day the woman packed her belongings, kissed her family and friends goodbye, and left her home country for a new life in America. Then, on February 14, 2012, the couple exchanged vows in an intimate ceremony in downtown Lexington, he in a fancy suit he vows to never wear again and lopsided boutonniere, and she in a lovely red traditional Chinese dress, complete with mandarin collar and gold embroidery and red heels with little lantern tassels.

Many of us observe Valentine’s Day, but do we really know why? I mean that from a historical and romantic perspective. And how, if at all, do other countries celebrate the holiday? In Western civilization, St. Valentine’s Day has origins in the ancient Roman festival of Lupercalia, observed from February 13-15, where young men would draw names of young women from a box, and the couples would be paired until the next festival. Later on came the spin-offs, from a saint named Valentine who performed weddings for soldiers against Roman law. The poet Chaucer wrote about courtly love: knights in shining armor, heroic deeds, longing and whatnot. Then, there’s the matter of Cupid, son of Venus, who fell in love with the mortal

Psyche, and thus represents the heart and mind, that tug we feel when someone plucks our heartstrings. Flowers, expensive chocolates, and greeting cards came much later.

Every year, Marvin Gaye and Celine Dion blare from the radio stations with their swoon-worthy lyrics and high octaves, and DJs give out coupons for romantic dinners for two to “lucky caller number nine”. Roadside florists sell roses by the dozen to frantic husbands and boyfriends. Kids exchange cards with smiling insects that say, “Bee My Valentine.” This commercially-wrought holiday carries different meanings for different people. For some, it’s a day where couples can get away with being corny and sentimental. For others, it might mean having drinks with friends in celebration (or pretending with firm tenacity) of their choice to remain single. For my uncle and his wife, it marks the day in 2012 that they were married.

The Chinese have their history of Valentine’s Day, which is immersed in cosmic legend: a tale of “star-crossed lovers,” if you will. In the legend, a cowherd named Niulang falls in love with Zhinu, a fairy and skilled seamstress who weaves the clouds in the sky. The Jade Emperor, believing that fairy and mortal should not be together, sends after Zhinu to return to Heaven. The empress takes her hairpin and slashes across the sky creating the Milky Way and

separating the two lovers. Touched by their love for one another, the emperor allows Niulang and Zhinu to reunite once a year, on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month. This year, that day falls on August 2. During a festival named Qixi or Double Seventh, young girls, depending on the region, would leave offerings of fruit or basket weavings, and pray for needlework skills and a happy marriage.

“So why,” I asked my aunt, “did you want to marry my uncle on Valentine’s Day?” In modern China, people are more familiar with the Western version of Valentine’s Day. They substitute flowers and romantic dinners for offerings and prayers. My aunt says the Chinese call it Lover’s Day. She didn’t mention the August festival or ancient legend of Niulang and Zhinu, and it makes me wonder how well this tale of everlasting devotion has stood the test of time. I know I had to do a fair amount of research into our own history of a holiday that has morphed into a gushy day of pink and red hearts and mechanical bears that dance to bad renditions of “Hunka, Hunka Burnin’ Love.” Maybe, one day, we’ll all come to know February 14 as International Lover’s Day. I like to think that my uncle and my new aunt are a modern-day version of Nuilang and Zhinu, once separated by miles of water instead of stars, but now united, every day of the year.

By Jessica Caudill

international love story

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MOUR LIFE

Flowers are pretty and they smell great. But, then they die and they stink. Chocolate is, well it's amazing. You can get chocolate a million different ways any day of the week. Both are, or can be, overpriced, impersonal and only last for so long.

This Valentine's Day do something different. Show your partner that you really care and not just because it's February 14th. Here's a simple and low cost way to share the love this year.

My quote is “You are the song in my heart!” so I decided to go with some musical themed scrapbook paper to make a 3D heart. Cut the scrapbook paper into seven heart shaped pieces. Set one heart aside. Using six of the hearts glue the blank side of them together in pairs so you end up with three hearts, with printing on front and back. Set aside for later. If going the Monopoly route, you can make this out of the money or even the deeds.

Once you know the quote you are using, lay out the stencil letters, the single heart and whatever else you are including. Making sure you have all the letter stencils you need for your quote. Then space out whatever else you are including. It took me a few tries to get all the spacing of the letters and the birds around the heart just the way I wanted it. Color in your stencils. You can use either fabric paint or a marker. I ended up using a black sharpie for mine. I think the black on the burlap gives it the feel of an old potato sack and I just know that HK will love that. If you are going with the dinosaur theme, “rawr” means I love you in dinosaur and is always a good word.

Glue the one heart that isn’t in a pair, blank side down, to the burlap. Bend the remaining pairs and pin them, right down the middle, to the heart on the burlap. You might have to adjust the bend in the hearts so they don’t all lay flat on each other. VOILA!!! A homemade Valentine’s Day gift with endless possibilities. And you didn’t have to brave the pink and red heart filled aisles to do it.

•Burlapbackedshadowbox •Aquotetostencilontheburlap •Letterstencils •Scrapbookpaper •Fabricpaintormarker •Scissors •Glue

My love happens to have a thing for birds so I used a bird stencil to include something to make it more personal. If they happen to like dinosaurs, find a way to incorporate dinosaurs. Monopoly more their style? Throw a tiny silver dog or wheelbarrow in there. You can copy everything else I’ve done except this part. This is the part where you need to get creative and add a personal touch.

WATCH & LEARNWATCH & LEARNWATCH & LEARNWATCH & LEARNBy: Jess Breier Here’s what you will need:

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SHANDA’SUNIQUE

DATEIDEAS

A PICNICIt’s cute, not so typical, and an opportunity for you to win him over with your polished baking skills. But,

instead of the rehearsed setting that consists of both of you lounging on a checkered blanket in a park, batting your eyelashes, trying to distract him from the children

screaming on the playground, try mixing up the scene. This may sound somewhat morbid, but think of it more along the lines of darkly romantic. Sexy. Mysterious. Suggest a midnight picnic in a graveyard. Creepy? Maybe. The perfect opportunity for you to pretend you are a tad bit freaked out chilling with the dead, causing you to inch a bit closer, getting all cozy? Guaranteed. And I know all of this information based on experience. We drank wine by candlelight, discussed our favorite dead poets, and I

ended up getting major props for suggesting an innovative way to have a picnic.

ZIP LINING

Dip your toes into something that will make you both a little bit uncomfortable- Zip Lining. Adventurous, unique, and

an experience neither one of you will forget. Not only is this an insanely fun date, but you will both reveal various

sides of yourself that wouldn’t normally occur during dinner. Adrenaline, reassuring each other that you won’t die,

and the excitement that comes after flying hundreds of feet in the air. Unique experiences are followed by unique

responses and this is exactly what will happen on this type of outing. You will receive the chance to share a fun event together which can only mean being asked out for

another round. Score.

EXPLORE It is as simple as that and honestly, with modern gadgets

offering quick suggestions on where to go and articles promoting the top five restaurants on your side of town to try, being adventurous isn’t really on top of a dating to-do list. Planning and setting time frames is part of the courtship ritual, but going past the norm can only offer more excitement. Last week, I suggested the idea of

roaming downtown with no particular agenda to a guy I had planned a date with and he was all for it. We parked

and walked around, checking out random shops, and taste testing imported beers. This gave us an opportunity to try new things and learn about each others’ likes and dislikes. Turns out he is into cool vintage shops, too, and even though it’s fun to watch how Bourbon gets made, I

absolutely hate it.

VOLUNTEERVolunteer together followed by learning about different

wines at a local vineyard. We tend to forget that pitching in at an animal shelter or serving hot meals can be an

invigorating shared experience (and I am totally attracted to a man with a passion for giving back). Not only is this date a special way to spend time together, but you both will be helping others and in turn striking up diversified convos other than the rehearsed, “Where did you go to

school?” and “How many siblings do you have?”

One of your New Year’s resolutions was to suggest the most awesome date idea ever the next time you are asked out, right? No? Well, you might have to add a few of these to your list.

How often have we planned a date and it ends up being the good ol’ go to dinner and a movie? One too many, I’m sure. Just like the common winter outfit, consisting of leggings, warm boots, and an oversized sweater, we need to switch things up a bit and try to rock a ‘new look’. Lucky for you, here are four unique date ideas that will have the person joining you intrigued by your creative approach to dating in 2014.

BY SHANDA SNYDER

MOUR LIFE

35

February, the month of love, is upon us. Though, as with most holidays nowadays, the moment one is completed, retail stores begin preparing for the next. Hearts in all sizes, textures and colors (not exclusively red and pink anymore) began popping up as early as December 26, 2013. Promotion of candy, flowers and jewelry has commenced as preferred gift items for the ones we love. Romantic dinners by candlelight, at an exclusive restaurant, permeate printed and televised advertisements. How much more amorous is the mood when illuminated by a candle!

Candles have long been linked with special occasions and ceremonies, in addition to providing light, for thousands of years. In modern times, while utilized for these purposes, candles have evolved. They are decorative, bestow varied fragrances, and spotlight multiple themes. The variety of shapes, presentations, and wax and wick composition would amaze the ancient Egyptian or Roman.

These ancient “tools” are capable of tantalizing and delighting all of our senses. (Yes, there are companies who manufacture edible candles.) Patti and Brett Butler, owners of Woodford Wicks in Versailles, KY, desire to reach the candle consumer on many sensory levels – including taste (personal preference, not gustatory perception). Their creations are eye-pleasing and evoke in the olfactory system a myriad of memories and feelings with scent combinations too numerous to mention. The wooden wicks in their barrel candles crackle like a wood-burning fire.

Family owned and operated since September 2009, Woodford Wicks manufactures unique, quality candles guaranteed

to satisfy. Prior to selecting a business venture, the Butlers composed a list of criteria. It contained the following: family inclusion, “do” locally, benefit community, consumable product, interesting, intellectual, and

creative. When a candle business in Nicholasville, Kentucky, came on the market, they knew they had found their answer. Having education and career experience in marketing, customer service, account management and web presentation has been beneficial. However, with only two weeks of training in the latter part of 2009, Patti, Brett, parents,

and children jumped not over, but right into candles and wicks! Now, over four years later, they have experienced satisfaction and success. They have copyrighted their Teapot candle, have a specialized Woodford Collection including the barrel candle, reminiscent of Kentucky bourbon barrels, and in 2013 became the official licensed candle provider for Duck Dynasty.

While 98% of their business is wholesale, Woodford Wicks operates a Factory Outlet Shoppe in Versailles where first quality, slightly imperfect, and closeout and clearance candles can be purchased. Boasting their own blends from raw fragrances and making their own clean, long-burning wax, candles for any season, holiday or celebration can be found. Personalized tins for birthdays, showers, weddings or whatever your occasion can be ordered by visiting their web site. A retail locator is available as well.

This month, or next, or sometime soon, woo your senses. Treat them to an enchanting experience. Visit Woodford Wicks in Versailles, online or at a local retailer. Gift yourself and others with a variety of exceptional candles to create a decorative, holiday-like mood every day of the year.

Romancing the Senses

BY LEE ANN CHRISTENSEN

PHOTOS BY JAKE LYBROOK | CAPTURED QUALITY & KIM HANNAN | AMBROSIA PHOTOGRAPHY

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