sophie woman's magazine nov 2011 issue

S phieWo m a n ’s M a g a z i n e

INSPIRATION ~ EDUCATION ~ MOTIVATION FREE

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INSIDE:Girlfriends In God ~ Follow Me| 9

Reaching Your Full Potential ~ Take The Four Element Challenge| Page 12

Honoring Our Veterans With Aid & Attendance Benefits| Page 39

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“There are fine things which you mean to do some day; under what you think will be more favorable circumstances. But the only time that is surely yours is the present; hence this is the time to speak the word of appreciation and sympathy, to do the generous deed, to forgive the fault of a thoughtless friend, to sacrifice self a little more for others. Today is the day in which to express your noblest qualities of mind and heart, to do at least one worthy thing which you have long postponed, and to use your God-given abilities for the enrichment of someone less fortunate. Today you can make your life - significant and worthwhile. The present is yours to do with as you will.” Grenville Kleiser

Did you know November is Appreciation Month? Well, it has not officially been given that

title but when you realize that you have Veterans Day and Thanksgiving in the same month, it just makes sense.

By now, if you read any of my articles you know how I feel about our military and the sacrifices

they have made in the past and continue to make. A friend of mine posted a picture the other day that just captured the essence of sacrifice to me. She had a picture of her husband, who is away on assignment, on one side of a bureau with a pair of his boots on the other side and in between she laid their newborn baby. The picture did not have a caption nor did she say a word. It completely captivated my heart and immediately I started crying and praying for her family and thanking God for those willing to serve. Will you join with me doing the same thing?

Then toward the end of the month we celebrate Thanksgiving. Some people may say they don’t

have anything to be thankful for. If they really feel that way, then my heart goes out to them. I suspect most of us have a lot to be thankful for and I also suspect most of us take it for granted. Maybe we take our family for granted or maybe it is our job, our food, the roof over our head or a number of other things. Sometimes I take the air I breathe for granted and shame on me. Most of the time, I take it for granted that I will have one more day ....one more day to tell them how much I appreciate them. Or another day because today I don’t have time to go visit an old friend or just write a heartfelt note. Tomorrow I might be nicer to the people who are closest to me because today I am just in such a hurry.

Last year at Thanksgiving I printed out the body of a Turkey and a bunch of paper feathers. I

asked everyone to write something they were thankful for and then I taped the feathers all around the turkey body. Of course I wanted them to be sincere but you have to take into consideration how children and teenagers answer. I was met with the expected “huffs” and silliness but then when the family saw what we were doing I really think they took it quite serious for the most part. I took a picture and made a lay-out for my scrapbook. This year I am hoping it means a lot to them because you never know when one will not be here and most of all I want them to know that family is a treasure.

Just like the quote says, “The present is yours to do with as you will”. We just need to remember

tomorrow is not guaranteed so let’s not waste a single minute. “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where

thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.” The Bible

What is your treasure? It is not money or gold. I hope I will see a treasure of mine this

Thanksgiving and that I don’t take them for granted.

********************************************************************Disclaimer: Sophie Woman’s Magazine LLC is published monthly. The articles published in Sophie do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. All articles are intended for informational purposes only, and none should serve as a substitute for doctor’s advice and orders. Advertisers are solely responsible for the content and validity of information published within their ads and are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher. Deceptive or misleading advertising is not knowingly accepted by the publisher. Advertising is accepted with the understanding that all liability for copyright violations is the sole responsibility of the advertiser. All material submitted for publication is considered to be the sole propertyof the advertiser. Sophie Woman’s Magazine LLC’s publishers, staff, and other persons involved in the creation, production, or delivery of the magazine (in whatever format) or ti’s content, do not assume any liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information provided in the magazine, nor shall they be liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages arising out of the use of the magazine.********************************************************************

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7| Mandy’s Misadventures

by Mandy Thomas

8| How To Be Fabulous

by Gracie

19| GirlfriendsIn God

Follow Me by Sharon Jaynes

23| Plan Early

by Marilyn Nutter

11| The Front Porch

by Judy Smith

20| Health & Fitness Tips

Lift & Firm Your Butt Without Surgery by Sharon Rashidi

28| What A Family Should Know

Before Entering The Emergency Room Dr. Susan Flowers PhD

35| Sometimes It’s About The Journey

...Not The Destination Written by Susan Guest

12| Reaching Your Full Potential

Take The Four Element Challenge by Kim Fletcher

15| The FlyLady

Free To Fly by Marla Ciley

27| Sophisticated Women...

Take Stock by Nicole Greer

31| Me, Myself, & Inc.

Everyday Appreciation Opens Doors & Minds By Sherré Demao

pg 3 | Message From The Heartpg 14 | ‘Tis The Season by Michelle Ellwangerpg 24 | Wedding Planner

pg 37 | Truth & Beauty by Teresa Popepg 38 | Organizing A Thanksgiving Day Feastpg 43 | Shutterbuggerz Feature

16| The Dinner Diva

Refrigerator Redesign by Leanne Ely

32| The MaleBox

By Wayne Deloria

39| Honoring Our Veterans With Aid & Attendance Benefits

Written by Casey W. Pope.

40| Is Failing To Plan, Planning To Fail

by Tammi Murphy

pg 6 | Sophie Woman’s Magazine | November 2011

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www.sophiewomansmagazine.com | pg 7

One awesome thing about Savannah starting school this year is the complete excitement with which she views all things educational.

And by “awesome” I mean “annoying,” because let’s face it, I don’t want to do ABCs with her every single night for the rest of my life. Forever. Still, I can’t help but be amused by her newly acquired knowledge, and I have to admit that my favorite new trick of hers is storytelling.

She’s always been a bit gifted at telling stories, so it came as no shock to me that when she started learning how to form sentences, the first thing she wanted to do was write a book. I just didn’t know that it was going to be such a serious matter.

I remember I was sitting in a chair in the living room, playing around on the computer while the girls drew pictures in the floor. Every now and then, Savannah would pause to ask me how to spell something, and I’d help her sound it out, but other than that, it was quiet. After a while, Savannah brought her picture to me, a very grave look on her face as she held it in my face.

“Mom,” she said, jabbing the end of her pencil to the words on the paper. “Do you see this? This is a story.”

“Um, okay?” I answered, trying not to laugh at her. The last thing I wanted to do was make some off handed joke, and thereby destroy all of her future creativity. Because with my luck, that’s exactly what would happen.

But, I digress.Making sure that she still had my undivided

attention, she went on. “This is the scariest story you will ever hear in your entire life.”

“What is it about, if it’s so scary?” I asked, trying to figure out what she had ever seen in her little life that would be the inspiration for what was sure to be terror inducing tale for millions of kids everywhere. What? Savannah’s my kid, I have to expect this of her.

“Do you see this right here?” With the tip of her eraser, Savannah pointed to a weird, circle thing in the corner. It looked like a face, but where the mouth should have been was a large circle, filled with jagged little things that frankly disturbed me.

I don’t know who teaches Savannah’s art class, but I’m fairly certain that’s not what teeth look like.

“Yeah, I see it.”“This is a zombie baby,” Savannah said,

emphasizing the word “baby” like it was the most horrifying thing in this whole universe. Of

course, the fact that my six year old drew an infant monster could technically be a bit disturbing, but still.

She watched my face, letting the information sink in before asking me to read the words at the bottom of the page. It took three times of her raving about how scary the sentence I was about to read was going to be before she actually left me to it.

“Monster doormat,” I read slowly, looking into her expectant face once I’d finished. “Um, okay?”

“It’s scary, right?” she asked, not letting me answer before going on. “I’m going to read this to Addison, and it will scare her. She’s not even going to know how to handle it, Mom.”

Needless to say, Addison didn’t really care about the monster doormat, or the freakish zombie baby in the corner with it’s messed up teeth and ghoulish overbite.

But hey, we’re writing sentences now and that’s impressive, right? There’s plenty of time to be the next best selling horror author. We just need to find something that’s actually scary.

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HOW TO BE FABULOUS!


“What do I wear to bed? … Chanel No5 of course.” Yeah, Marilyn Monroe oozed sexiness whether in just her classic scent or one of her favorite Emilio Pucci dresses. She epitomized glamour, along with Hollywood Legends such as Eva Gardner and Rita Hayworth. Ohhh…the mystique…the attitude…the sheer HOTNESS! This Old Hollywood feel is taking over ‘New’ fashion forward divas. That said, the Holidays are the purrrrfect time to bat those false lashes and strut your inner Screen Goddess…MEOW! So grab a latte, cup of chamomile tea, or a dirty martini ;) and Let’s chat a bit about “Old Hollywood Fashion and the Holidays”…

Ok, I admit it. I am a HUGE fan of this season…Bob says our house resembles Roseanne Barr’s at Holiday time. Sooo, I’m into ‘tacky chic’! I did go a little overboard last Thanksgiving when I realized that you can actually buy a truck load of pumpkins and have someone deliver them!! Where I’m from, you buy a pumpkin at the grocery store! I bought 2 loads… they eventually spoil by the way…just sayin’. Anyway, this year I am in the process of finding a sleigh that Katie, My Fab mule, can magically pull around while I wave majestically (soooo Grace Kelly) at my neighbors. Hmmmm, somehow I think that may take some extra training…or a miracle. The last time I tried to ‘acclimate’ Katie to the holidays, by putting bells around her neck, she froze and gave me the “SERIOUSLY??!!” look. I tried to remind her that she used to be a work mule. I think she has the attitude like that other “Katie” (Hepburn) who believes “If you obey all the rules, you miss all the fun.” My point is that I will ROCK some serious ‘Sleigh Couture’ if given the chance!! Tis the season to shine baby! It’s also the time for Gracie’s top “Do’s” for Holiday attire…

#1. STOP THE DISCO BALL LOOK!Girls, ya’ll know I love love my bling, but enough with the over

the top glitter. I adore a lil’ shimmer…sweep a sheer gold powder over your shoulders and décolletage…subtle yet sexy. Add a gold or silver Mary Jane shoe with a jeweled toned dress. One piece of metallic is usually sufficient for an outfit. If that one piece is a dress, tone it down with basic jewelry and a nude or matte heel. Even Dorothy knew this rule (although I would have loved to see her in a LBD instead of that blue and white number).

#2. TIME TO “GIRL SWAGGER” WITH THAT RETRO LOOK

So timeless, yet so current…as seen by myself (Yes, blonde- ya only live once!) and my super hot male model “Sheldon” (Thanks Plylers!), this is nothin’ short of smokin’ baby! It just screams fun! Effies Heart is the ultimate line representing this Rat Pack Era. Simple, elegant…with a touch of WOW. The gloves are a great accessory , and/or fur! Real or faux, fur can add some sizzle… Never tacky…always classic.

#3. “DRESS” JEANS AND BOOTSThe runways were filled with fabulous ‘trouser’ jeans this season.

I know we keep changing our minds in this fashion industry, but we did it again. Fuller leg, higher waist. We are not talkin’ your mom jeans…don’t go there! Especially don’t go there and say I told ya to!! Lol! These fit like a dress pant and, therefore, can be worn to dressier events. I love the designer “Billie by Billie Blues”. Their jeans JUST WORK… Don’t ya love when that happens?? Also, please ladies, jeggings need to be put out to pasture with capri’s. Either do a legging or do a jean…why confuse things?? A great addition to these jeans are a unique fun boot. Over the knee, ankle length, slouched, buttoned, vintage…my oh my, so many to choose from! And I wouldn’t feel right if I didn’t suggest a blinged out cowboy boot (THAT’S YOUR ONE PIECE!). This can be a little tricky to pull off, but when ya do…HOT! I highly suggest Black Jack boots. They will custom make your boot from the toe to the heel…and ya’ll know how I like things my way ;).

Bottom line girls, this is the season of parties, parties, and more parties… An opportunity to show what ya got! At the same time, Don’t forget to tell that “It” girl that she really worked her look~ trust me, she wants the compliment…we all do! Be that ‘Glamourous’ woman that would make even Humphrey Bogart sigh…”Here’s lookin’ at you kid”. xoxo

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Front Porch

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This past month I was at a fabulous women’s event with a lot of people I know. Some of the vendors were friends of mine and we always have a lot of fun together. This evening was no different. The event was very well organized, the music was fun and uplifting, the food was great and the speakers were wonderful. An absolutely great evening... right? Wrong!

How can something so wonderful turn out to be so wrong...in so many ways that I am totally bummed out? It all turned south when one of my so called “friends” just rubbed my face in how unfair this world was. I know what you are thinking, “God didn’t promise us a rose garden”. That was what you were thinking, right? Well, I know He didn’t and I know everything is not fair but come on....some things are just outright cruel.

There were many freebies at this event and my friend brought out something that at first glance looked like a giant chocolate bar. Well, I knew I wanted one....but then alas, it was only a disguise for something totally worthless....tissue or something like that. Not that it was not enough of a cruel joke within itself but then, as I was trying to relay to her how absolutely nasty a prank it was, this happened. My absolutely perfectly figured “so called friend” who could NEVER understand the depth of misery she just caused because she obviously never ate melt in your mouth, creamy, sweet chocolate had this to say. “I eat chocolate candy all the time”.

No more friendship from me! Actually I don’t ever want to see her again. In fact, if that describes you....well don’t come all smiley and friendly to me with your “chocolate breath” and expect me to be nice... because it ain’t gonna happen! That is just so wrong. I love chocolate candy but I don’t eat it very often at all. I can buy the bars and smell it for a day or two before I give into eating it. Then I break off a small bar of it and take a tiny bite and just let it s-l-o-w-l-y melt in my mouth, eyes closed, totally immersed in the heavenly taste. Then BOOM....right to my hips...and she tells me she eats it all the time, every day even! It is a good thing we were in a large crowd and I didn’t want to make a scene. I did whisper in her ear how I hated her and I told everyone to stay away from her.

It taught me a great lesson though. Looks can be deceiving. Even if you think a person looks one way, she may be the other. Don’t just go by that sweet smile or even that perfect figure. You need to smell her breath! Oh my, so now you know I over reacted. I am trying to make amends just so you know. I just ordered her a dessert to be delivered to her at work. Death by Chocolate!

by Kim Fletcher, Life Coach, Author, Speaker

REACHING YOUR FULL POTENTIAL: Take The “Four Element Challenge” To Begin 2012 As A Brand New You!

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“In pursuit of character, there’s no cutting corners.” Tim Oulton


Last month, I shared the inspiration which came to me while reading an article about a British Rugby player turned world-class furniture designer.

As you recall, Mr. Oulton is considered by many to be one of the world’s leading craftsmen, taking old wood from reclaimed antiques and breathing new life into it by crafting ‘new’ pieces of furniture. The article featured a quote by Mr. Oulton: “Whatever we do, it has to be BOP – Best on Planet.”

His story left me thinking about the power we each possess as individuals to be the Best on the Planet in the areas we find most important.

I left you with the challenge to consider the following questions as you position yourself to enter into 2012 with greater vision for your life.

Here are the questions to consider: What would you like to ‘reinvent’ about yourself?1. What aspect of your life have you considered broken and 2. beyond repair? What if the lessons awaiting you there could propel you to greater joy and influence?What are you willing to pay for a life of vision and purpose?3. What one simple step can you begin taking today to become 4. “BOP” in any area of your life? Ex. Best Parent, Best Supervisor, Best Friend, Best Spouse.

Now that you have considered these simple, yet powerful questions, it is time for the Four Element Challenge that I promised to share this month.

Almost daily, I interact with individuals who want to increase their influence, joy, and passion while decreasing stress, regret, and negative habits. Just like in Mr. Oulton’s line of work, taking old wood and breathing new life into it with simple hand tools in a process which takes months and years, I have found that re-inventing our own lives is a process which takes time, attention to detail, and the passionate care that characterizes master craftsmen. Four areas come to mind that have the ability to bring transformation to your life…

� ELEMENT ONE: Tapping into your NATURAL GIFTING instead of developing new skills.� ELEMENT TWO: Placing a higher priority on PASSION over performance.� ELEMENT THREE: Believing that you are here to MAKE A DIFFERENCE.� ELEMENT FOUR: Determine to live your INFLUENCE, not merely be productive.

Herein lies the Four Element Challenge:First, consider Element One. I believe our lives would quickly

take on greater meaning and joy if we simply connected our days to our natural gifting. Most jobs and careers require us to develop skill, but many individuals invest in developing skills that do not connect

to their natural talents and abilities. For example, I know someone who is currently considering going to dental school because he feels he could support his family better financially. There is one problem… he is already a gifted mechanic who loves cars. Which job do you believe he would find most fulfilling in the long run? If he was your husband or dad, would you rather have him make more money or come home happy, fulfilled and relaxed (even if a bit greasy from the garage)?

What comes naturally to you? Can you think of a creative way to bring your natural gifting into your current line of work or into your free time? I know of another professional who worked a corporate job for years, building guitars on the side as a hobby. That hobby turned into his career… one he still enjoys today.

Now, consider Element Two. Are you more driven by passion or performance? Do you find yourself tapping into your passions daily or do you find that you are more driven by ‘getting things done’ or growing your list of accomplishments? Our greatest joys in life will link to the times when we shared what we value most with those we love most. Perhaps it is time to take a day off ‘just because’ and reconnect with people and things of value to us. Take this challenge one step further and consider how linking your days to your passionate pursuits might actually make you more productive.

Element Three. Recently, I heard someone say that you should never ask yourself, “Am I making a difference?” Rather, you should ask, “What kind of difference am I making?” I believe our world will change as we begin to see ourselves as highly influential people who are making a difference. Now, it is up to us to decide what type of difference we will make. Take one simple action today that you believe will make a positive difference.

Element Four. While many people strive for power, the wise among us will long for influence. While power can be aggressive and overbearing, influence is that quiet force that causes others to want to go where we are going. As you consider your leadership style, consider how you might lead by example rather than force. Try this at the office or even with your teens. Those willing to lead in this character-driven manner have the most followers in the long run.

As you take the Four Element Challenge, remember this one life-altering truth: those who live from a place of passion, vision, and influence do not have to strive to compete to be better than others. They strive to be better than they were the year before. Declare today, “I am becoming the best ______________(your name here) on the planet.”

As a Life Coach and Speaker, Kim coaches individuals and groups to break free from all that holds them back, while pressing in to reach their full potential. Kim’s newest book takes you deeper as you coach yourself to becoming your best: The Tension Point: Breaking Through to Where You Want to Be (November 2011 release). We would love to hear your story: [email protected], 828 327 6702, creativelifenavigation.com.


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‘Tis The Season: Practicing Mindfulness During Busy Holiday TimesBy Michelle Ellwanger, MA, LPC

It started back in September with stores gearing up for holiday shoppers. Seasonal aisles filled with holiday trimmings, the colors red and green took center stage and Christmas music began piping over speakers to create holiday cheer.

What type of person are you during this time of year? Do you write your shopping list and hum along to some favorite tunes? Do you shake your head in disgust over the commercial aspect and dread how much work lies ahead? Or maybe you do both depending on the given day and your mood.

Hans Selyn, a research endocrinologist coined the term stress back in the 1940s. He noted that stress is stress regardless of whether it is positive or negative. Most individuals understand negative stress: think of an unpleasant coworker that ruins the office environment. But positive stress is taxing as well: think of getting ready the day before a big trip.

Selyn also observed that individuals respond differently to stress. Some individuals are better suited to adapt. Others become depressed, drained and even physically ill. Since stress affects everyone at certain times, learning techniques to manage it makes good sense. Which brings us to a simple but profound technique called mindfulness.

What exactly is mindfulness and how can it help you during the busy upcoming season?

Simply stated, mindfulness is present-centered awareness. Individuals practicing mindfulness do not worry about the past or the future. They only allow their mind to focus on the present moment. This technique often incorporates and utilizes conscious breathing as well.

Mindfulness can help you anytime you notice stress claiming too much of your time and energy. It is a research-based model commonly used in medicine and mental health to help individuals reduce tension and lower

anxiety. Practiced regularly, mindfulness can strengthen your immune system, increase your mental/emotional well being and help provide a healthy perspective during stressful times.

Here are two simple examples you can immediately start using to transform everyday chores into mindfulness meditation:

EXAMPLE #1: When you shower: enjoy the hot water, the smell of your shampoo and the sound of the water all around you. What senses come to life and what do you notice when you allow yourself to get lost in the moment?

EXAMPLE #2: When your child or spouse is talking to you: stop what you are doing to focus on them, watch for non verbal communication and hear what they are saying. What does listening to them, giving your full undivided attention, look like and involve?

Mindfulness can be combined with other important stress reduction techniques such as diet and exercise. Moderation is the key with celebratory times. Acknowledge that you will have Christmas parties and family functions full of tasty and tempting food. Know you are going to eat more than you should so make sure to get out and take walks or hit the gym to reduce feelings of guilt and negativity.

If after the holiday dust settles and you find yourself wanting to read something during the winter months, consider picking up a book by M.I.T. molecular biologist Jon Kabat-Zinn. Jon dedicated his career to the research and promotion of mindfulness. His classic, Wherever You Go, There You Are, offers dozen of 2-3 page readings that contain mindfulness exercises for self help.

Every day of our life is what we make of it. While holidays can certainly be a time of increased activity and stress, they can also be a time of gratitude and mindfulness. Make a conscious choice about what kind of holiday you want to have this year and then enjoy it. ‘Tis the

season!

In addition to being an avid gardener, entrepreneur and self-help enthusiast, Michelle Ellwanger is a licensed professional counselor. She lives on a 25- acre farm in Hickory, North Carolina with Mike, her husband of over 20 years and their 4 children. Please send your questions or feedback to [email protected] and visit Michelle at www.resthealgrow.com.

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FlyLadyTHE

by Marla Cilley

Free To FLY


When we are so tied up with the day to day CHAOS of our lives, we sometimes don’t take time to keep up with what is going on around us. We assume that the people who are elected and appointed to various boards have our well being in mind when they make decisions. Sometimes this is not the case. They only think about their own well being.

Last year I was interviewed by several radio stations and a newspaper

from Ireland. Our FlyLady way of living was being attacked by one reviewer. She went on to say that when a woman is stuck with the housework she doesn’t have time to pursue business or politics. I rebuked her misconception of what we do. I told her we were not Stepford wives; we were taking care of things so that we could be anything we wanted to be. I also told her I was a wife, mother, grandmother, former elected official, business leader and FLYLADY!

If I had not had my house in order I would have never stepped into a

political arena to give a woman’s opinion on anything. I would have been trapped and silenced by the CHAOS in my home. That would have been so sad. If I had not had my house in order I would have never been able to jump in and help you.

With the CHAOS turned to peace I was willing and able to step up and

do what my geographic community and my internet family needed. Our home did not fall back into a mess! My routines were firmly in place and I was FLYing! I had a job being a county commissioner and almost at the same time our FlyLady mentoring system began. Yet our home still looked nice and I felt good about myself and what I was doing.

Have you ever paid attention to the number of women there are in a

room of elected officials or who are in management? I have studied this and I believe with all my heart that our homes keep us trapped. We don’t feel like we have time to do anything other than what we are already doing. So we let the world pass us by while we just try to keep our heads above water. We are so busy putting out fires that we forget about our passions. I am not saying that housework is a woman’s job; what I am saying it is the woman who feels bad about the house when it is not done. We can’t help that this is how we have been conditioned by society. We are the nurturers and the nester. We have been told that we can have it all; the home, family, career and a rewarding life! But no one ever gave us an instruction manual. We were just expected to know how to do it all. When we struggle with one part and the guilt begins to take over then we neglect the other areas. We have all said it, “I don’t have time!”

“I don’t have time” goes even deeper than just getting involved with

your community. Those words rob you of time with your family and

time taking care of you! Ultimately you are the one who loses. You are so rushed that you don’t take care of yourself and eventually get sick because you are not eating right or not taking a few minutes to get a drink of water.

I never dreamed that my passion for helping you would turn into a

business. It grew because I could not do it all by myself! I needed to surround myself with people who could help me to help you! They free me up to be FlyLady. At the same time my home is my sanctuary; not an albatross around my neck weighing me down in shame.

Do you have a passion for something? Have you pushed it to the

back burner waiting for the right time to rekindle that passion? Do you even remember what it is? There is never going to be a right time! We have to learn how to balance our lives. We can do this by establishing simple habits and building them into babystep routines to get rid of the CHAOS in our lives. These simple steps will help you to find the time even if it is only 15 minutes a week.

Please be on the lookout for that perfectionism monster that is lurking

inside of you. You know this part of your personality very well. It is the monster that pushes you past your limit on any project you start. You know those marathon sessions of painting, scrap booking, and volunteer work; when they take over all your time and the whole house. You get caught up in it and where does the time go. This is because you are having fun. Haven’t you ever heard that time flies when you are having fun! Well why not get your homework/routines done first so you can go out and play! The house, dinner, and everything else will not be stopping you from following your passion. You will have it done and be the envy of everyone who knows you! How does she do it all??? Your little secret is safe with me!

Simple Routines free you to FLY!

For more help getting rid of your CHAOS, check out her website and join her free mentoring group at www.FlyLady.net or her book, Sink Reflections published by Random House and her New York Times Best Selling book, Body Clutter published by Simon and Schuster. Copyright 2011 Marla Cilley Used by permission in this publication.

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Leanne Ely is a New York Times bestselling author of Body Clutter and the Saving Dinner series.

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The Dinner Diva

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By Leanne Ely, CNC

Ladies and Gentlemen, I would like to ask each of you, if you would, kindly open your refrigerator door. So how’s it looking? A little messy? Maybe it’s so full of food you can’t even see the shelves anymore? If it’s really bad, does it have a peculiar odor? And what kind of food do you have stored in there? A beautiful array of produce? Or a bunch of stuff you wouldn’t want to tell your favorite Dinner Diva? :-) Everything in life demands order; even in something as small as a refrigerator. Maintaining order reinforces a sense of peace instead of a stressed frenzy that comes hand in hand with disorder. And along with an orderly fridge comes what you keep in your refrigerator and where you keep it. This will affect, believe it or not, your choices. The what and where of food in your fridge can actually benefit a healthier diet if you take control of location and the actual food being stored. Health.yahoo.net pointed at a study practiced by Cornell University, which was that if you fill your top shelf with fruits and veggies and other nutritionally benefiting foods, you’re more liking to snack and eat those initially, instead of grabbing some easy snacky not so good for you food. According to this article, placement is king and not just in regard to your choices. Some refrigerated foods can affect others and not for the good. For example any raw meats, you really need to keep them on the bottom. If they leak there’s a greater chance for salmonella or E.coli to sneak into your other food. See why placement is so critical? I wrote an article about storing leftovers (http://savingdinner.com/articles/whats-looming-leftovers/) that can go hand in hand with what I

have to say in this article. One of my points that coincide with that article is that you have to be aware of what is in your refrigerator. Know what leftovers you have, and pair leftovers accordingly. Maybe you still have leftover meat from the day before and you now have leftover veggies from today’s meal, mix and match and make the two of them a meal for the next day. Be mindful of your space, be mindful of your leftovers, and be mindful of what you need versus what you want. If you can ensure some basic organization in what you buy, where you’re placing it, and what is already in there in conjunction to what you need, you’ll save time and money and even manage a healthier constitution. I would like to encourage you to take five extra minutes out of each week to quickly wipe down the surfaces of your refrigerator with a disinfectant cloth or wipe. If you are what you eat, don’t you want to eat something being stored in a clean place so you don’t get sick?Avoid leftovers completely with our Cook Once Eat Twice menus! www.SavingDinner.com


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Follow Meby Sharon Jaynes

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Today’s TruthAfter this, Jesus went out and saw a tax collector by the

name of Levi sitting at his tax booth. ‘Follow me,’ Jesus said to him, and Levi got up, left everything and followed him (Luke 5:27-28, NIV).

Friend to FriendsI was at a funeral for the father of a friend of mine.

Amazingly three of the deceased’s nephews were preachers and each wanted a turn at eulogizing Uncle Bob. There was a Baptist, a Pentecostal, and Methodist. It was a long service. One of the preacher’s stories about ole Uncle Bob really tickled me. I’ve changed the names, but let’s let nephew John tell the story…..

“When I was a young boy of 17, I was working in the family business, and didn’t yet have my driver’s license. Uncle Bob came over one day, took me by the arm, and said, ‘Boy, it’s time to go and get your driver’s license.

“But Uncle Bob,” I argued, “I haven’t practiced enough. I’m not good enough yet.”

“Don’t you worry about that, son,” he said. “I’ll teach you what you need to know on the way.”

So off they went to the Department of Motor Vehicles. One young man with nervous clammy hands. One older man with a determined knowing grin. John parked the car, not between the lines, but right smack dab in the middle of two spaces with the line running under the middle of the car. He very nervously walked into the building, fumbled through the driving test, and miraculously came out with a certificate and a license.

“I always wondered how in the world I passed that test,” the now older man mused. “But years later I found out. Uncle Bob knew the Patrolman who administered the test.”

Wow! I sat there on the edge of my seat! That was the gospel! Jesus takes us by the hand and tells us its time to get started moving on with Him. “Follow me,” He calls. Sometimes we tell Him, “I’m not ready. I need more practice. I’m not good enough yet.”

But Jesus says, “Don’t you worry about that. Follow Me and I’ll teach you what to do along the way.”

Have you been putting off doing something that God has called you to do because you feel like you’re not ready? If so, don’t put it off any longer. Jesus says, “Follow me.” He’ll take care of the rest.

Have you been putting off accepting Jesus as your personal Savior because you feel you’re not ready? If so, Jesus says, “Follow me.” What are you waiting for?

Let’s PrayDear God, sometimes I am hesitant to do what You are

calling me to do because I don’t feel that I’m ready. But I know that I am ready the moment You call me and that You will supply all my needs according to Your riches in glory. I am so thankful that we never have to get ready to be saved! You tell us to come as we are. “Just as I am without one plea, but that Thy blood was shed for me.” Hallelujah! “Oh Lamb of God, I come. I come.”

In Jesus’ Name,Amen

Now It’s Your TurnIs there something that God is calling you to do but you

have put it off because you feel you’re not ready? Do you think that God would call us to a task and leave

us to fend for ourselves? If you have not accepted Jesus as Your Savior, what’s

stopping you? If He has called, then you ARE ready. Don’t worry about being good enough. None of us ever could be. But He will teach you what you need to know along the way.

If you have never prayed to receive Jesus, I have a short video that will walk you through the steps. Simply visit www.jesusforwomen.com. If you pray the prayer to accept Christ, I’d love to hear about! Please email me at [email protected].

More from the GirlfriendsWould you like to know more about becoming a Christian

and committing your life to Christ? If so, follow this link and read more about knowing God on the Girlfriends in God website, www.girlfriendsinGod.com.

Step Two- Rise up, keeping right foot planted and step left leg out to the left, toes turned out. Squat and lean to the left, arms still wide. Hold for one count.

Tips: Repeat exercise from the beginning. Do 3-5 reps then switch legs to complete one set. Start with one set and work your way up to 3 sets. Make sure your front knee does not go further forward than your ankle during lunges, as this can damage your knees.

Exercise Number Two- Chair Butt Lift

This is a great exercise that works the glutes, core and hamstring muscles to lift and firm the butt.

Step One- Stand behind a chair with your feet parallel and about 3 inches apart. Zip up your abdomen and stand tall like a rooster. Standing on your left leg, lift your right leg up and tap the chair seat with your toes.

Step Two- Keeping the great posture, push the right leg behind you and press the heel of your right leg up and away. (As if you are trying to push down a wall with the bottom of your foot) Look back to your right as you push your leg away from the chair.

Tips: Remember to stand tall and keep your belly button pulled in. Start with 15 reps then switch legs to complete 1 set. Work your way up to 3 sets, then you can increase your reps.

Sharon Rashidi B.S. Health EducationOwner of The Perfect Workout

by Sharon RashidiB.S. Health Education

Exercise Number One- Cartwheel Lunge

This exercise not only works the glutes (butt) but it also works the legs, butt, hips, core and hamstrings.

Step One- Lunge forward with left leg, turning toes in to the right (to 2 on a clock face). Bend forward from the hips, reaching arms wide as if doing a cartwheel. Hold for one count.

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Lift and Firm Your Butt Without Surgery

Last week after teaching a stretching class, a member came up to me and asked if it was possible to reshape her rear view without having surgery. I told her yes of course, but you have to understand the anatomy of the rear end in order to get the best results possible. The gluteus (glutes) and hamstring muscles are best friends. One rarely works without the other, and when you focus on sculpting them together, the results are super sleek and sexy.

Your glute muscles attach to your pelvis and the top of the thighbone: The gluteus maximus extends your leg, while the gluteus medius and minimus move your leg out to the side and stabilize the pelvis. Your hamstrings (biceps, femoris, semiten-dinosus, and semimembranosus) run from your pelvis to your lower leg. They bend your knee and help extend your leg.

To reshape your rear view and send jiggle packing, complete exercises that capitalize on the glute/hamstring relationship. Do exercises like squats that work both areas instead of trying to isolate one. To maximize your efforts, add in some toning tweaks like shooting back your hips as if you are going to sit in a chair when doing squats.

Please keep in mind that you will also need to do cardio ex-ercises where you get your heart rate up and keep it elevated. Engage in at least 30 minutes of walking, biking, dancing, or elliptical training each day. Doing this burns excess fat and en-gages the glute and hamstring muscles. Give it a few weeks and you won’t be the only one noticing your perkier posterior.


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Marilyn Nutter has contributed to several compilations and online sites and is the author of Dressed up Moms’ Devotions to Go, Tea Lover’s

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As Linda gathered the unwrapped gifts, she realized that she had run out of paper. Caroline planned to bake, but discovered that she didn’t have enough flour. Joanne double booked her evening because she mis-read the date on the invitation. Mary waited an hour in a post office line so went through a fast food drive-through for dinner. These scenes are repeated countless times, and sometime around December 20th, the hustle and bustle of Christmas runs at record pace. Energy is depleted, tension rises and joy seems to evaporate. We have too much to do, and not enough time to do it. Although there is no perfect Christmas, by de-termining to PLAN EARLY, we can do our best to manage our time and keep the holiday in perspective.

P : Prepare: Look at your calendar the first week in November and prayerfully plan the next two months. Review your recipes, take an in-ventory of your baking supplies and paper products and postage stamps. Make a list of things you will need and set a date to shop early. Mark the days to bake and write your Christmas letter or cards. Set specific dates to shop for gifts. Knowing that you have scheduled “appointments” for these errands decreases your stress.

L : Learn from last year: Ask: What caused me stress? What must I do to prepare for Christmas? What can I eliminate? What didn’t mat-ter? What did matter? What should I have done that I didn’t? Are there “smarter” ways of doing things? For example, can I cook ahead and freeze parts of my holiday meals? Can I have friends in for hot chocolate and cookies, or a potluck instead of preparing a meal? Write your ques-tions and answers in your journal. It often helps to see it written. Then plan.

A : Approach the holiday with the mindset of joy, not incessant activ-ity. Find a quote or Bible verse that will remind you of joy. Write it on index cards and place the cards on your kitchen window sill, bedside table, on the dashboard of your car, or even in the laundry room.

N : Nutrition: Snacks, empty calories and high calorie dinners can be real culprits to our bodies at this time of year as we eat on the run, eat the wrong foods or eat more than we should. At a party, have your conversa-tions away from the snack table so you aren’t tempted to eat as you talk. Drink tonic or soda water instead of high calorie beverages. Pass on the bread at a dinner.

E : Events: What important and meaningful events and experiences are the “must haves” of your Christmas celebration? Mark them on your

calendar as priorities. Don’t over schedule—watch your family’s fatigue level. Review your answers in your journal from the exercise on “learn-ing” as you make choices.

A : Arrange for help. Arrange for child care to get some shopping done. You will get twice as much done in half the time without carting tired children from place to place. If childcare isn’t in your budget, offer to trade time with a friend. You might want to consider sharing cookie recipes with a friend and bake for each other. Making doubles of one recipe is easier than making two different recipes.

R : Remember the reason for the season. Keep your focus. Separate the urgent, necessary, and important and respond to them with perspec-tive. You cannot make the perfect Christmas nor are you responsible for making a perfect Christmas for others.

L : List. Make a realistic gift list and stick to your budget. Overspend-ing creates stress, especially when the bills come in January. Re-gift. Maximize your shopping time by using certificates and gift cards. Shop on-line. Give the gift of a meal or service and deliver in January. Dismiss the guilty notion that you have to give someone a gift.

Y : You. Take time for yourself. Block out time to stay at home and include “you” on the calendar. Take time to refresh daily with inspira-tional reading and quiet time. Play beautiful music in your home. Don’t forget to exercise.

Though a perfect Christmas appears in the Hallmark commercials and on TV programs, it isn’t! Planning early isn’t a recipe for a perfect Christmas either, but it will help toward a manageable schedule with less stress and more joy and peace. The only perfect Christmas was at the manger. Plan your time to celebrate it!

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Colorful Accents Chic For This Year’s Bridal GownsAlmost as long as there have been bridal gowns, white or

ivory have been the colors of choice for first-time brides. These light hues represent the purity and innocence of the bride. Although a few brides-to-be choose to forego wedding white for something a bit more flashy -- like pink or yellow gowns -- a popular trend today is to wear gowns with accents of black or other deep colors to add dimension to the white canvas.

Considering the groom and groomsmen will be dressed in black tuxedos, black accents on a wedding gown have been growing in popularity and add a formal, regal look to a wedding. Darker color embellishments can add drama to a gown. Another advantage is they can call out pattern or adornments not easily seen on a white-on-white gown. Furthermore, deep colors against the white backdrop of the gown show well in photography, particularly the black-and-white journalistic style that is very trendy as well.

Women shopping for bridal gowns who are considering colored accents should be careful that these embellishments are subtle and do not overwhelm the gown -- or the person who will be wearing it! Popular enhancements include appliques on the bodice or the train of the gown. Another idea is to select a white gown and then tie a black bow or sash around the waist or put a lace shrug over bare shoulders. Black-and-white lace gloves are also an option for those who want to add just a little splash of dimension.

The same concept can be applied to any accent color. Burgundy or plum colors also work well to add the contrast of dark against light and aren’t as extreme as black. Some brides can also opt for a paler, more pastel shade to serve as an accompaniment to the white gown. Many times the accent colors chosen are replicated in the hue of the bridesmaids’ gowns, so the entire wedding party looks cohesive.

Because the spectacle will be the beauty of the gown, it’s best to carry a neutral-colored bouquet in a small size. Or, a black-and-white gown can be accented with a small nosegay of red flowers or roses.

Consider black stitching in the appliques of a gown for some drama. Many gowns come with colorful accents or they can be added later by a talented seamstress.



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• A E T R E X • R E D W I N G • T I M B E R L A N D P R O • W O LV E R I N E • J U S T I N • M E R R E L L • O L U K A I • C O N V E R S E • SA

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Sophisticated Women... Take StockBy Nicole Greer, PPCC Founder and Principle Coach at Vibrant Coaching

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Stop what you are doing. It’s time for a Vibrancy Check. A powerful Vibrant Life Practice is to stop, look and listen to your life.

A quick inventory of the four vital lifescapes: emotional, mental, physical and spiritual gives a fresh perspective. So, how are you?

If your answer is, the pat answer, “fine”. You are not engaged with life. I suspect your reply is generated from an auto-pilot setting from deep within your sub-conscious. Can you be a little more precise? What are you really feeling and from what part of your life is this feeling generated? Don’t know? Let me help. Email me and I’ll send you a feelings list…really! Knowing exactly your state of being can trigger a fresh perspective that will help you see a next right step. And a next right step is the most precious and powerful thing you can do!

In my PATH coach training, I embraced the feeling scale as a tool to aid people in understanding how they are showing up for their life. At the top of the feeling scale is euphoria! Euphoria is a state of being that is full of joy, spirit, and rapture. Euphoria is experienced when an individual is participating in life full on. They have a creative breakthrough or they have received what they hoped for, worked for, or have longed for. Which means they had a goal…a dream…a vision…for some ideal in their life. You’ve been there before. The day you laid eyes on your first child, the day you won the race, the day you got the job, the day you graduated. Remember? You can go there again…but you must take stock.

If you are having a hard time remembering a day that you were euphoric you are probably near the bottom of the feeling scale. At the bottom of the feeling scale is suicidal. Too dramatic? Possibly, but suicidal is state of being that is dangerously rash, hopeless, and empty. The reality of being “fine” is that you are probably closer to suicidal than you are to euphoria.

Why is that? If you ask me, (thanks for asking) it’s because you don’t know what you

really want and you are standing in a cynical perspective. Because you have been disappointed before you certainly don’t want to be disappointed again. Disappointment is painful. Hoping, wishing, and praying are hard work and what if it doesn’t turn out? You’ll have offered up the world all your energy to only be disappointed again. Is this sounding familiar? Perhaps like a little voice in your head that is always spouting off negatives? Careful! This is a dangerous cycle and it produces a mindset I call “Who cares?” which, in fact, can lead to depression.

It’s time to take stock! You have only this one life to live. Wake up to your current status and become alert to the next right steps you need to get on your ordained path. Taking stock of our past and present can powerfully impact the future. Ultimately, you are responsible for our own experience. The power we need to live life vibrantly comes from a serious and sober look at where you’ve been and how you are applying your time, energy, and resources. Discover yourself in terms of where you are right now.

Answer these questions to TAKE STOCK:

Emotional1. Emotionally are you feeling fulfilled? hat are you doing this week that brings you fully alive? Name the emotions you are experiencing.Mental2. Name the mindset you are in. Are you thinking with clarity? Are your goals set with action plans in place?Physical3. Physically are you energized? Are you at your goal weight? Do you have an oxygenated correctly fueled form ready to take on the day ahead?

Spiritual 4. Finally, spiritually do you know who you are and your purpose? Is there a deep knowing that you are doing the work you are called to do in this lifetime? Do you sense you are safe, approved, and powerful?

Simply answering these questions will stir you within. Now how are you feeling? Uncomfortable? Frustrated? Perplexed? Good.

My aim is to pry you off dead center to move you into a vibrant life. I offer this prayer given to me during a time in my life when I needed to understand my giftedness so I could live more fully. This is powerful and not for the faint hearted.

Read it and TAKE STOCK: Looking at the past and present will impact your future. You must explore your “Story of Right Work”, the power of the feeling scale, your human condition and create an action plan that will take you into the new year (It’s only two months away!) on purpose and on your path. Let’s get started!

Pry Me Off Dead CenterBy Ted Loder

O persistent God,deliver me from assuming your mercy is gentle

Pressure me that I may grow more human,not through the lessening of my struggles,

but through the expansion of themthat will undamn meand unbury my gifts

Deepen my hurtuntil I learn to share it

and myselfopenly,

and my needs honestly.

Sharpen my fearsuntil I name them

and release the power I have locked in themand they in me.

Accentuate my confusionuntil I shed those grandiose expectationsthat divert me from the small, glad gifts

of the now and the here and the me.

Expose my shame where it shivers,crouched behind the curtains of propriety,

until I can laugh at lastthrough my common frailties and failures,

laugh my way toward becoming whole.

Deliver mefrom just going through the motions

and wasting everything I havewhich is today,

a chance, a choice, my creativity...your call.

O, persistent God,let how much it all matters

pry me off dead centerso if I am moved inside

to tears, or sighs, or screams, or smiles, or dreams,they will be real

and I will be in touch with who I amand who you are

and who my brothers and sisters are.

describing any symptoms, be as detailed as possible regarding anything unusual that has been noted. The more information the nurse has about a patient’s overall illness, the more accurate a diagnosis the MD can make. During the next stage of assessments, which is the physician’s exam, patients will have to undress and don a hospital gown that opens in the back. Here is where a packed robe and flip flops come in handy until the doctor arrives in the room for the examination. After the physical exam, blood tests are usually ordered and a urine samples collected. Further testing such as x-rays, sonograms, CAT scans and/or MRI’s may also be required, none of which cause any discomfort or pain. They are totally non-invasive to the body. Any testing that is invasive (equipment being introduced into the body), will require a patient or parental consent form signed by the patient and physician. These types of diagnostic tests may require hospitalization. How invasive procedures feel and are conducted, depend on the actual test. Only the physician can determine what is required in order to complete a patient’s diagnosis. It is during the period in which a patient is being assessed and diagnosed by the doctor(s), that the notebook and pen are to be use. Make certain that every physician and specialist that has contact at this point gives their complete name and title. This could be of great significance if an admission is required. The professional staff will be more mindful when they realize that their names are being recorded, therefore holding them accountable. If for any reason patients are not comfortable with the care being received from any staff member, it is their Patient Right to request the care of someone else with equal or better qualifications. Too often patients are treated unprofessionally or unfairly and believe that they are stuck with the staff who initiated their care. This is not the case. Spend some ER waiting time reading the “Patient Bill of Rights.” They are standard rules and enforceable. Maintain notes on whatever you feel is relevant and ask all pertinent questions of the staff. If an inpatient admission becomes necessary, continue to document names and titles of caretakers on the unit of admission. Request the name and extensions of the Patient Care Coordinator (PCC) of that unit, the extension to the front desk, the names and numbers for the hospital Director of Nursing (DON) as well as the Medical Director. In the event that a patient’s Rights are violated or the staff becomes inappropriate, this is reported directly to the PCC. If it is not resolved satisfactorily, proceed to the DON. Healthcare is a business like any other and a competitive one. A patient can be transferred to another facility at their own request, provided that they are stable enough physically to be transported. In the event that a hospital is not capable of completing satisfactory care, it is their legal responsibility to stabilize that patient and transport them to a facility that can.

Hospital patients and their families should remain vigilant and ensure that all treatment is understood. Demand proper care and treatment by being prepared in advance of a medical emergency.

Susan Flowers, PhD is a Speaker/Multimedia Journalist/On-Air Personality for WGIV. As the reigning Ms Black Charlotte

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What Every Family Should Know Before

Entering The EREvery year, millions of people become ill and find themselves headed

for a hospital. Being prepared and knowledgeable can save your family lots of frustration or even a life.

The first thing that every family should do is prepare a plan of action in the event of an illness, while everyone is healthy. This is especially true if you have children and elderly members living at home. Start by always having a bag pre-packed for each member of your household in the event of a hospitalization. Each member’s bag should accompany them to the hospital if an ER visit is required. First, add to these bags required information, i.e., copies of insurance cards (back and front), each members list of chronic illnesses, list of all current medications and doses, list of all doctors with phone numbers and the family medical history. Second, include basic comfort items for a possible overnight stay, i.e., a robe, rubber slippers, a wash cloth, sox, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, comb/brush, contact lens products or glasses(if used), about $5.00 in cash and a small notebook and pen (most important). All adults should include a Living Will signed and notarized. A Living Will designates a medical representative in the event that one is confused or unconscious. A hospital Social Worker can assist in this upon request. Last, for all children include copies of immunization records in their bags. All items listed will play an important role.

All caretakers and sitters must be made aware of these bags and have access to them at all times. Keep signed letters in your children’s packed bags simply stating that “I (the parent) consent for hospital treatment of (said child) in the event of an emergency.” Sign and date it. A notarized consent is even better. If a sitter is expected to transport a sick child to the ER, treatment cannot be attempted without a parent’s expressed consent. This letter will save time if a parent cannot be reached. Most importantly, ensure that all sitters are familiar with the contents of the bags. Unnecessary anxiety can be avoided when everyone is prepared in advance.

The first thing required upon ER arrival is registration. Have all insurance information out of the bag and ready to be presented. Answer all questions accurately. Mailing addresses and phone numbers to your insurance company are usually on the back of the card. In the event of an admission to the hospital, it is the responsibility of the patient or patient representative, not the hospital, to ensure notification of the insurance company within 48 hours. The payment of claims could be denied if this procedure is not adhered to. Also, it is important to receive a copy of the “Patient Bill of Rights.” This is crucial reading! Every patient should know their rights and what to expect of their caregivers. The next step will be a written assessment by a nurse. Be prepared to answer certain questions. Most of that information will already be in the bag. Having it all on hand allows for accurate recall of important data. All menstruating females will be expected to recall the beginning date of their last menses, all pregnancies and all terminated pregnancies (including miscarriages). The staff requires this information in the event that x-rays are required or if medication has to be given. If pain is present, be prepared to describe it, i.e., sharp or dull, constant or intermittent and how the intensity rates on a scale of 1-10. Also, be prepared to describe all other symptoms in detail. In the event of stomach pain & discomfort, the color, frequency and consistency of recent stools will have to be noted. When


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pg 8 | Sophie Woman’s Magazine | October 2011

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By Sherré DeMao

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Me, Myself, & I nc.

Bio: Sherré DeMao inspires millions through her monthly columns, weekly Insight

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Everyday Appreciation Opens Doors and Minds

The idea of thanksgiving is usually associated with family and friends, yet more and more businesses are making a communication of appreciation a part of how they also reach out to their customers, suppliers and associates near the Thanksgiving holiday. However, those who truly understand the power of appreciation make the act of giving thanks an everyday aspect of living, working and conducting business. It is a value and philosophy that is at the core of how they think, respond and act in any given moment.

How often do you pause with gratitude to appreciate the things and people that have made it possible for you to make progress in what you are trying to achieve? It has been said that Albert Einstein said “thank you” 100 times a day – to those he loved as well as those who he admired that made it easier for work to be done, ideas to be generated or his insights and achievements possible. Helen Keller is another example of being truly appreciative. In spite of her inability to see or hear, her attitude of gratitude set forth a life of accomplishment and fascination with the possibilities that conveyed that disabilities are not physical in nature, but emotionally bound by our mere perception of how we treat others, ourselves and any given circumstance.

With this column, I challenge you to take appreciation in your life to a higher level of consciousness. Here are some ways to consider and incorporate appreciation into your everyday way of being.

Acknowledging Others in a Personal Way Goes Both Ways: One of the simplest ways to show gratitude to another person is by simply acknowledging them by their name. While we like to be addressed in a personal way when someone is serving us or communicating with us, how often do most people do the same in return? How often do you take the time at a restaurant or in any given customer service situation where you are being served to simply say thank you for that person’s assistance? And do you address them by their name? Their name is usually found on a name tag or provided when they greet you. Yet, most people will not pay attention and are more focused on what they are receiving versus what it is enabling them to do beyond the interaction or transaction. If you have not made it a practice to show gratitude to strangers serving you, I encourage you to do this. Always remind yourself that these “strangers” are making your life or work easier through what they are doing or providing to you. Specifically acknowledge them by their name and watch what happens. You will find as you make this a part of your everyday practice that it inspires a higher sense of purpose in serving as well

as a more profound connection with the world because it recognizes how we all are helping one another either through our jobs or our interactions with one another.

Why Saying “Thank You” Isn’t Enough: It is one thing to say you are appreciative but a far greater and more meaningful thing to show it. Gestures of appreciation elevate and reinforce what you say to a whole true level of knowing your appreciation was not only felt, but embraced. How have you shown your appreciation by taking the kindness that was done for you through demonstrating the difference it has made. How have you used the example of the kindness to show some kindness of your own to someone else in need? The idea of paying forward is one of the most profound ways to show you appreciate. It is not always about reciprocating but spreading appreciation so it multiplies in its impact.

Daily Appreciation & Reflections: Too often in our hustle and bustle we forget to take time each day to give thanks for all that we have been given, have achieved and have gained in understanding or comforts. It is something that we were taught as children and yet we so quickly forget how powerful, reaffirming and fulfilling this simple practice can be.

I carry with me a gratitude journal which only captures statements and positive thoughts of gratitude. From the simplest to the silliest of notations to the deep-rooted core of things or happenings that have or are bringing me joy, satisfaction and contentment – they are acknowledged. This journal is always with me, and when stress takes hold, it is the first place I turn to remind myself how truly fortunate I am. Then the next thing I do is let someone know how much I appreciate them in a note, or a phone call, or an email and the smile that is felt deep from within is most gratifying of all. What has been amazing to witness time and time again, is how opportunities sometimes appear out of nowhere because I took the time to appreciate and someone noticed and was grateful.

National Director of Activity and Exercise for Meridian Senior Living, Owner & Opera-tor of Coach’s CORE Fitness Studio, former NASCAR Coach, Master Fitness Instructor, Personal Trainer and Sports Nutritionist Wayne DeLoriea, one of NASCAR’s most successful coaches, certified in 80 countries around the world and author of “Coach Without A Whistle” and “$elling Your$elf…There’s Magic In the Approach”, joins nchealthylifestyles to help you realize and attain your nutrition and fitness goals.You may contact Coach at: www.deloriea.com

THE

MALEBOXby Wayne DeLoriea

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[email protected] www.carolinacountrymusic.com

As the temperature drops and the humidity disappears, I find that I have more energy and desire to get outside and do all the chores that I have put off until autumn. This past weekend, I took out our old mailbox and replaced it with a new box and post. I replaced an old outdoor light fixture with an antique that my wife brought from her father’s house in the mountains. I also did my normal lawn care and pool cleaning chores.

The cooler air just makes this old man feel young again. As I finished the list of chores that I have been promising to complete all summer, I was proud of the awesome work I did. Linda however, was most appreciative of the energy and attitude with which I did them.

The more I thought about it, I just kept going back to my feelings that, while men are more brutish and I think that’s a good thing, women are still more highly developed. While guys see the deed and the accomplishment, women feel emotions based off the attitudes guys have.

These feelings and emotions are tied to their issues of security. Think about it guys…if we attack the ‘Honey Do’ list with energy and pleasure, she’ll feel that all is well in the relationship and she’ll feel validated.

If you’ve been reading my articles over the past year and a half, you understand that the greatest gift you can give your wife or girlfriend is VALIDATION. For example: The next time you buy her a card…don’t JUST buy her a card…she DOES’T CARE about the card…she cares about what you WRITE IN THE CARD. The card will be appreciated and the effort you make will be noticed…but her validation comes from your note that says, “My life is better because you are in it. I love US”

Let me go further with some more differences…

These differences are between REAL MEN and the pretenders. Don’t just turn away now…read on and consider this, as though I am writing advice to your daughters…and understand that I am talking to YOU.

We need to teach our daughters to: Distinguish between a man that flatters her and a man that compliments her; A man that spends money on her and a man that invests in her; A man that views her as property and a man that views her properly; A man that lusts after her and a man that loves her; A man that believes he is God’s gift to women and a man that remembers a woman is God’s gift to man by TenatiousTrish

And we need to teach our boys to be REAL MEN by BEING REAL MEN. Just give it some thought….You might find that Thanksgiving has greater depth and meaning if you do.

Happy Thanksgiving, Coach


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JOURNEY, NOT THE DESTINATION!


As children, we loved to crawl through tunnels-whether at the water slide or in a row of chairs covered with quilts. The destination at the other end was not important-just the thrill of crawling through an interesting space.

This week the word “journey” has emerged several times in conversation. Sometimes, as adults, we are so busy trying to get to our destination that we forget to relish the pathway or journey along the way. In life, we are all on a journey where we learn new things, meet new people, and have new experiences each day. We can have the same joy along this path that we felt as children tunneling through a covered space.

As an interior designer, one of my duties is to help clients in their journey through life in their physical surroundings. Several have been customers for years, and call me each time they enter a new phase in life. A few have been through divorces and needed assistance in creating a new energy for a new start. Others have married and wish to include their spouses “junk” in the new home. And others have inherited furniture from a deceased parent and want to incorporate some of their treasures in their existing décor. Finally, I have helped several clients decide which furniture to take to independent living and which pieces to donate to charity or family members.

I design spaces in homes, churches, workspaces, or clubs that transition people from one area of the building to another-a shorter “journey”, but still important. Even though these areas often lead us to larger spaces where we spend more time, they are still important in our lives. For example, years ago, I attended a small college in Florida for a couple of years. The campus was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. The buildings were inspirational and were connected with covered pathways to keep students out of the heat and late afternoon thunder storms. The pathways were as interesting as the buildings and took away some of the tedium of walking to class.

A journey through a transitional area can make you forget your worries or prepare you for a larger space. A beautiful entry can set the tone for the rest of the home but can also be a nice place to rest your body or mind. The large sweeping staircase in “Gone with the Wind” made us wonder what was on the next floor and what Scarlett and Rhett were doing. The Hall of Mirrors at Versailles is another example of a space that moves you from one area to another. Walking through this grand hall, one can either feel like Marie Antoinette or a disheveled tourist!

Next time you are in a hallway, entry, or pathway; consider your journey through the space. Sometimes we get in such a hurry to get to our destination that we forget to savor the journey. Stop and smell the roses and feel the ambience!


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&TRUTHBEAUTY

by Teresa Pope, Esthetician

Question: I am in my late 40’s and have started having acne breakouts. My teen daughter also has been getting severe breakouts. Is this normal? Could we possibly be allergic to something or is it just acne? And if it is acne, do we treat it the same way?

Answer: It is possible (but not likely) that there is an environmental cause. First alleviate any new products that you both come in contact with, such as shampoo, laundry detergent and other household or personal hygiene products you both share. If it is environmental, it will subside as fast as it came along. However, I feel the most likely cause is, HORMONES. For you and your teen daughter, it is that time in your life’s where hormonal fluctuations can lead to breakouts. Breakouts will also become more severe during the month, right before your period starts. Your daughters acne is probably located on the T zone. The hairline, forehead, nose and chin, while yours is more than likely located along the jawline, lower cheeks, chin and the upper part of the neck. Also, since you are in your late 40’s, you are not producing as much estrogen as you used to do. Estrogen helps slow down the production of oil. Now you may find your skin getting oilier, so therefore you have more breakouts. However, at the same time, your skin is getting drier, (remember oil and moisture are totally different) so you may find that your skin feels oily and dry at the same time. Treating the acne breakouts will be similar for both of you. First: DO NOT EVER squeeze a pimple, this only pushes the bacteria deeper into the skin and the pimple will last even longer than it normally would have. Second: Be sure to wash your face morning and night and after a workout when you get sweaty. Use a cleanser containing Salicylic acid, which is made from aspirin, so it not only exfoliates your skin and keeps pores clear, but it has anti-inflammatory properties as well. Third: Always use a moisturizer, that will not clog pores, such a product usually says; non-comegenic on the label. If these suggestions do not give you your desired results, you may want to consider talking to your doctor about birth control pills. The pill will help you with the hormonal fluctuations and the oil production, thereby helping with adult acne breakouts.

Organizing A Thanksgiving Day Feast The holidays are upon us! Last month I talked about creating a “Holiday Binder” to make getting through the holiday season a little easier for everyone. This month I’m going to take a page out of the binder and talk about how to organize a chaos-free Thanksgiving Day lunch or dinner. I don’t know about you, but hosting a Thanksgiving Day lunch for more than a few guests stresses me out. Here’s why: getting RSVPs, coordinating who is bringing what, did we forget anything like plates, napkins, or tea, grocery shopping and hoping they are not out of pumpkin pie spice, and of course the inevitable cleaning and decorating! Here is “Jennifer’s Guide to a Chaos-Free Thanksgiving Day Feast” *the key ingredient is planning…planning…planning*



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1) Three weeks before (1st week of Nov)

Set the date and time•Call or email everyone you •plan to invitePlan your menu•When you email and call your guests, ask what they want to bring for the dinner. Have suggestions available in case they are not as planned as you. Paper products, sodas/teas, dessert ideas, etc.. Test drive any new recipes that you plan to make. No one wants to try a great new recipe only to realize that pumpkin mango pie is not as tasty as it looked in the magazine.

2) Two weeks before (2nd week of Nov)

Stock up on non-perishable •items that you will need for your recipesCanned goods•Spices •Bakingessentials(cakeflour,•cookie mix)If you are making the turkey and have room in your freezer, then buy your turkey now!

3) One week before Getafinalheadcount•Start cleaning and decorating•Email everyone just to make sure they are still coming and to find out about any surprise guests that are tagging along. (My cousins are always bringing school friends)I suggest doing several cleaning activities a night so you don’t have to tackle it all in one day. Monday: dust and vacuum, Tuesday: clean the bathrooms, sweep & mop, Wednesday: decorate

4) Two days before Hit the grocery store for •perishable items like bread, milk, eggs, and vegetablesMake anything like dips or •pies so you don’t have to make everything the day of the party

Make sure it will keep two days in the refrigerator before making

5) One day beforeGet the table ready•Arrange dishes on the table •and label each so you know what dish will be used for what recipe I would also note the cooking •time and temperature on the label – makes it easier to map outwhatwillbecookedfirstTidy up•Pick up anything that has •gotten tossed around the house since you cleanedEnlist any family members •to help tidy up and make the house look and smell nice

6) Day of:Enjoy everyone’s company •without being stressed!Make a “Thankful” jar where •guests can write what they are thankful for on a piece of paper, and drop in the jar before lunch. Read each response aloud while you are enjoying the delicious food. Ask the kids to help clean the •table and let the dishwasher do all the work.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Jennifer BurnhamPure & Simple Organizingwww.facebook.com/PureandSimpleOrg

By: Casey W. Pope, Esq.

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Mattie s PantryBulk Food and Specialty

’ 1134 22nd Street NEHickory NC 28601

10% Off Baking IngredientsWith This Ad 828-855-2390

(828) 324-4668spir i tsongnc.com

Sara Nafziger-Shelly LCSW, BCD

Spiritual Directionutilizing the mind, body, & spirit to focus

on a deepening relationship with God

I am thankful for those who have served our nation in the armed forces. Service to our nation runs deep in my family, as both of my grandfathers, my uncle, cousin, and many other family members are veterans. We pay special tribute to them this month with the observance of Veterans Day, and with the coming holiday, I am reminded of the debt that our society owes to the men and women who have sacrificed to protect our freedom.

At the very least, our veterans deserve the best health care and long term care programs that we can provide. One way that we are able to do this is through the benefits offered to veterans and their families through the Department of Veterans Affairs.

While most of us are familiar with the VA pension and disability benefits, I would like to focus this month on a less well-known benefit – the Aid and Attendance Benefit. The Aid and Attendance Benefit provides a monthly pension to veterans or their spouses to assist with in-home health care or long-term care expenses. It can provide up to $1,949 per month in income which can be used to offset other medical expenses or supplement other income sources.

Although the veteran is not required to have suffered a service-connected disability to receive aid and attendance, there are several other requirements. First, the veteran must have served at least 90 consecutive days in active duty in the military, with at least one day served during certain periods of wartime. Further, the veteran must not have had a dishonorable discharge.

Second, the veteran or his spouse must either be over age 65 or totally and permanently disabled. Again, the disability does not have to be service connected, but it cannot have been caused by the willful misconduct of the veteran. A resident of a long-term care facility is considered disabled for the purposes of the aid and attendance benefit.

Third, the veteran or his spouse must have a regular need for assistance by a caregiver or be housebound. The benefit recipient is considered in need of aid and attendance if he or she resides in

a nursing home, is blind, or resides in the home and needs daily assistance with one or more daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, feeding and the like.

There are also asset and income qualifications which must be satisfied. With regard to income, the total household income of the veteran and spouse, less unreimbursed medical expenses, must be less than the monthly aid and attendance benefit amount that would be received. Because certain medical expenses are not considered in the income calculation, a veteran or his spouse could have a relatively large monthly income and still qualify for the benefit. There is also an asset qualification test. While there is no strict asset limitation set out in the laws, as a general rule of thumb, married applicants with more than $80,000 in assets or single applicants with more than $40,000 are typically ineligible. The applicant’s residence and other illiquid assets are generally excluded from the asset calculation.Again, the Aid and Attendance benefit is available both to

veterans, their spouses, and their widows. This little known benefit can provide tremendous support to a person in need of assistance. If you are interested in learning more about this benefit for yourself or a loved one, you can contact the local Veterans Affairs office or an attorney who practices in elder law. It is just one more way that we can honor and protect those who fought to protect us.

Casey Pope is an attorney at Patrick, Harper & Dixon, LLP in Hickory, North Carolina. She

practices primarily in the areas of estate planning, elder law, and business and corporate law. Casey may be contacted at 828-322-7741 or via email at [email protected]. Patrick, Harper & Dixon is Hickory’s oldest and largest full-service law firm.

Honoring our Veterans with Aid and Attendance Benefits


PR

OM

ISE

2011

Photos Courtesy of Shane Greene Photography

TWO WEEKENDS TO CHOOSE FROM!Friday, December 2nd 7:00pmSaturday, December 3rd 5:00pmSunday, December 4th 5:00pm

Friday, December 9th 7:00pmSaturday, December 10th 5:00pmSunday, December 11th 5:00pm

GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY!

Sorry, No Child Care Provided.Due to the intensity of the program, children under four should not attend.

GENERAL ADMISSION SEATING!ADVANCE TICKETS: $8.00

TICKETS AT THE DOOR: $10.00No Refunds Available.

TICKET ORDER FORM

Name:________________________________________________Address:______________________________________________City/St/Zip:____________________________________________Daytime Phone:________________________________________

PERFORMANCE PREFERENCE: It is imperative that youmake a request for 2 different dates, as choices are sometimes limited by the larger number of groups!

1st Choice:________________ 2nd Choice:_______________

TICKET ORDERS ARE FILLED IN THE ORDER THEY ARE RECEIVED.Number of tickets:_________ x $8/ea = _____________ (Add $2 postage & handling) Total Due: $____________

Please Make Checks Payable To Tri-City Baptist Church

ALL PERFORMANCES HELD AT TRI-CITY BAPTIST CHURCH

1409 NC HIGHWAY 16 NORTHCONOVER, NC 28613

Tri-City Baptist ChurchPO Box 40Conover, NC 28613For additional information, call the Music Department at828.465.6644 ext. 203or visit our website at www.tcbc.org

Is Failing to Plan,

Planning to Fail?

by Tammi Murphy

Prior to becoming a mom, I was quite certain that I was the most organized, scheduled individual this side of the Mississippi. Need a party put together? Give me a cell phone and ten minutes of internet access and you’d have a soirée fit for 15 guests that would make you think my BFF was Martha Stewart. I scheduled hair appointments six weeks out. I had color coded entries in my desk calendar. I had places for everything, labels for everything and always arrived fifteen minutes early.

Enter two children.What was once my neat and tidy

little world is now filled with sippy cups, unidentifiable stains, clutter that virtually appears out of nowhere and a calendar that hasn’t been opened since 2008. You may have even seen me in the grocery store with pajamas on. Yes, that was me.

While my natural organizational skills have helped in this transition to motherhood, they are no match for the daily string of events that is my life. I am met with a stop sign, caution light and u-turn for practically every course of action. Here is an example of my attempt to mail a gift to my niece:

Gotta get Amber a birthday gift. How old is she now? Call my brother. Where is my phone? Spend 15 minutes looking for phone. Find it in a shoe. Who was I going to call? Brother! She wants a what? Google tween fads. Gotta get to the store. Need to make a list. Where is that notepad? How did jelly get on the notepad? Stop to clean kitchen counter. Back to list. Mommy, I need to go potty. Potty Break #8. Back to list. Ack! Pen is out of ink. I’ll just grab one in the office. Trip over 3 toys on the way to the office. Enter office. Here’s that book of stamps! Did I mail bill to the landscaper? Where is my phone? Exit office. Spend 5 minutes looking for phone. It’s in my hand. Call landscaper. Re-enter office and fetch the pen. What was I doing? LIST! Let me clean up these toys first. Where did I leave the notepad? Will hit the store on the way home from work. Arrive at store. Left list on the kitchen counter. Will go tomorrow. Three days later: Finally get to the store. Buy everything on the list….forgot the birthday gift. Will buy it online. Turn on computer. See list of unopened emails. Close computer.

So, my niece received a nice gift card - two weeks after her birthday. What usually starts out as a good intention ends up with an email apology and a cocktail. As women, it seems our constant focus is on

what needs to be done immediately. Today. No time to think about the future! It is harder and harder to plan for the next day, the weekend and, heaven forbid, an actual vacation. I seem to run out of time and steam, so when the day is over and no one has been injured or starved, I call it a success.

This was a hard adjustment. There is often a feeling of failure associated with what simply can’t get done in one day’s time. I was two ear infections short of a breakdown when I realized something. I realized that my kids won’t remember if the floor was vacuumed or if I made sauce from scratch. They won’t care that my bed is almost always un-made or that most of my coupons eventually expire. They will remember that I got on the floor and played with them, read to them, spent an extra ten minutes tucking them into bed and taught them how to slurp spaghetti noodles.

Once the weight of being alpha mom is shed, I can spend the extra time looking at the big picture rather than focusing on the small screen. Believe it or not, there is life outside the daily routine. I just have to decide what that life should be. What do I want for my family and how will we get there financially? What will it be like when the children have their own families and my husband and I are ready to retire? I may not

be able to write a step-by-step plan to manage the emotions associated with an empty nest, but I can begin to prepare financially.

It may sound about as fun as a lip wax, but financial planning should not exist at the bottom of the to-do list. If we don’t plan for our future, the future will plan itself and I, for one, don’t trust chance to get it right. A financial plan takes a lot of expertise, number crunching, and researching. Fortunately, there are financial professionals equipped to do the homework. Trust me when I tell you this, having a financial advisor is an investment, not an expense.

It is now up to my husband and me to decide where we want to be in ten, twenty and thirty years. Many marriage counselors will advise you to schedule dates. I’m telling you to schedule “the talk”. And, I don’t mean the “what’s for dinner” talk. This talk should not include anything having to do with ballet schedules, mother-in-law visits or doctor’s appointments. This talk is the

first step in preparing for our family’s financial future. Once we have an idea of how we want our journey to unfold, we can then get a professional involved and put pen to paper. It isn’t romantic, but neither will it be if we are both 65 and wondering where the social security went.

It’s a small step, but a very important step. Have the talk. Start planning now. What seems like decades away will be here way too soon and the best gift we can give our children is relieving them of the financial burden of taking care of their aging parents. When all the budgets, savings, insurances and investments are strategically aligned, our plan can begin to work for us and for our kids. It will take discussion, discipline and maybe even some self-discovery, but the end result is a custom-tailored adventure. We understand that as we go, the path may change and speed bumps may arise, but with a good advisor on our side, we can be more concerned about the grocery list than college tuition.

Happy Planning!

Tammi [email protected]


PR

OM

ISE

2011

Photos Courtesy of Shane Greene Photography

TWO WEEKENDS TO CHOOSE FROM!Friday, December 2nd 7:00pmSaturday, December 3rd 5:00pmSunday, December 4th 5:00pm

Friday, December 9th 7:00pmSaturday, December 10th 5:00pmSunday, December 11th 5:00pm

GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY!

Sorry, No Child Care Provided.Due to the intensity of the program, children under four should not attend.

GENERAL ADMISSION SEATING!ADVANCE TICKETS: $8.00

TICKETS AT THE DOOR: $10.00No Refunds Available.

TICKET ORDER FORM

Name:________________________________________________Address:______________________________________________City/St/Zip:____________________________________________Daytime Phone:________________________________________

PERFORMANCE PREFERENCE: It is imperative that youmake a request for 2 different dates, as choices are sometimes limited by the larger number of groups!

1st Choice:________________ 2nd Choice:_______________

TICKET ORDERS ARE FILLED IN THE ORDER THEY ARE RECEIVED.Number of tickets:_________ x $8/ea = _____________ (Add $2 postage & handling) Total Due: $____________

Please Make Checks Payable To Tri-City Baptist Church

ALL PERFORMANCES HELD AT TRI-CITY BAPTIST CHURCH

1409 NC HIGHWAY 16 NORTHCONOVER, NC 28613

Tri-City Baptist ChurchPO Box 40Conover, NC 28613For additional information, call the Music Department at828.465.6644 ext. 203or visit our website at www.tcbc.org

EXCEPTIONAL CARE, A CENTURY STRONG.

FOR INFORMATION OR A PHYSICIAN REFERRAL, CALL 828-315-3391.

choose life. choose frye. FRYE REGIONAL MEdICAL CENTER:

YOUR HEART HOSPITAL FOR NEARLY 30 YEARS.

The Heart Center at Frye Regional Medical Center has been the first in our community to reach many milestones in cardiac care. And that tradition continues today. Frye remains the only hospital in the area with board-certified heart specialists on site with over 200 years of combined experience, providing care 24 hours a day, seven days a week. What does this mean for you? In the event that your heart condition needs advanced treatment, our team is prepared and able to treat you instead of transferring you to another facility, saving you precious time and possibly your life.

2011Frye is named #1 in the State

for Cardiac Surgery by Healthgrades

2003 Frye Heart Center

expands with the opening

of the Heart Tower

2007 Frye cuts heart attacktreatment time when it becomes the area’s

only RACE center

2010 Frye’s fourth

Cath Lab opens

1989 Frye provides

open heart surgeryto the

Hickory area

1984Hickory’s first Heart Center opens at Frye

Pairoj Rerkpattanapipat, MD

Cardiology

Sanjay Patel, MD Cardiology

Philip Paspa, MDCardiology

Thomas Wiley, MD Cardiology

Vincent Patrone, MD Cardiology

Richard Schultz, MD Cardiology

Andrew Ross, MD Cardiology

Steven Isserman, MD Cardiology

Mark Hennington, MD Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery

Johnny Dy, MD Cardiology

Ghassan Alkoutami, MD Cardiology

John Morrison, MD Cardiology

Brian Hearon, MD Cardiology

Richard Carlton, MD Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery

Ryan Miller, MD Cardiology

R. Norman McDonald, MD Cardiology

Cemil Purut, MD Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery

Jeanette Billett, MD Cardiology

Untitled-1 1 8/19/2011 11:54:34 AM

shutterbuggerzOur Monthly Feature

Local Photos of Everyday people, places, and events as seen through the eyes of the area's

professional and amateur photographers!

s h u t t e r b u g g e r z . c o m

Photo Submitted By:Capture Life Photography

www.shutterbuggerz.com 43

Photos from our October 2011 Contest.

EXCEPTIONAL CARE, A CENTURY STRONG.

FOR INFORMATION OR A PHYSICIAN REFERRAL, CALL 828-315-3391.

choose life. choose frye. FRYE REGIONAL MEdICAL CENTER:

YOUR HEART HOSPITAL FOR NEARLY 30 YEARS.

The Heart Center at Frye Regional Medical Center has been the first in our community to reach many milestones in cardiac care. And that tradition continues today. Frye remains the only hospital in the area with board-certified heart specialists on site with over 200 years of combined experience, providing care 24 hours a day, seven days a week. What does this mean for you? In the event that your heart condition needs advanced treatment, our team is prepared and able to treat you instead of transferring you to another facility, saving you precious time and possibly your life.

2011Frye is named #1 in the State

for Cardiac Surgery by Healthgrades

2003 Frye Heart Center

expands with the opening

of the Heart Tower

2007 Frye cuts heart attacktreatment time when it becomes the area’s

only RACE center

2010 Frye’s fourth

Cath Lab opens

1989 Frye provides

open heart surgeryto the

Hickory area

1984Hickory’s first Heart Center opens at Frye

Pairoj Rerkpattanapipat, MD

Cardiology

Sanjay Patel, MD Cardiology

Philip Paspa, MDCardiology

Thomas Wiley, MD Cardiology

Vincent Patrone, MD Cardiology

Richard Schultz, MD Cardiology

Andrew Ross, MD Cardiology

Steven Isserman, MD Cardiology

Mark Hennington, MD Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery

Johnny Dy, MD Cardiology

Ghassan Alkoutami, MD Cardiology

John Morrison, MD Cardiology

Brian Hearon, MD Cardiology

Richard Carlton, MD Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery

Ryan Miller, MD Cardiology

R. Norman McDonald, MD Cardiology

Cemil Purut, MD Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery

Jeanette Billett, MD Cardiology

Untitled-1 1 8/19/2011 11:54:34 AM

shutterbuggerz.com pg 38

Photo Submitted By:Christina Thompson

Photo Submitted By:Julie Annas

Photo Submitted By:Annette Ray of Sunshine Photography

Submitted byMichael Lail

how this worksEach month our readers submit photos to our web site via email, based on the “Montlhy Theme” (visit the website for a list of upcoming themes). During that month, visitors to our web site at shutterbuggerz.com will vote on their favorite photo(s). Each month, the winning photographer (professional and amateur) will receive a prize.

Prizes:Professional photographers will receive a free 1/4 page ad space in the next issue of Sophie Woman’s Magazine. The amateur winner will receive a $25 Gift Certificate to a local restaurant of their choosing. Promotional apparel provided by:

Please read the submission guidelines and disclaimers on our web site at shutterbuggerz.com.

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

2010_Sophie_Ad_11-3-10.pdf 11/3/10 4:21:52 PM

Enter Your Photos At shutterbuggerz.com

Submitted byLasting Generations Photography

Submitted byCapture Life Photography

Local photos of everyday people, places, and

events as seen through the eyes of the area's


Submitted byMelissa Cockman Photography

Submitted byCindy Craven Photography

Submitted byMichelle Hrin Photography

Submitted byAmanda Carson Photography

Submitted byMelanie Johnson

44 Visit the website to view all the photos and to enter your photo into next month’s contest.

shutterbuggerz.com pg 39

5

6

7

8

9

Photo Submitted By:Limelight Photography

Photo Submitted By:Glenn E. Deal

Submitted byMichael Lail

how this worksEach month our readers submit photos to our web site via email, based on the “Montlhy Theme” (visit the website for a list of upcoming themes). During that month, visitors to our web site at shutterbuggerz.com will vote on their favorite photo(s). Each month, the winning photographer (professional and amateur) will receive a prize.

Prizes:Professional photographers will receive a free 1/4 page ad space in the next issue of Sophie Woman’s Magazine. The amateur winner will receive a $25 Gift Certificate to a local restaurant of their choosing. Promotional apparel provided by:

Please read the submission guidelines and disclaimers on our web site at shutterbuggerz.com.

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

2010_Sophie_Ad_11-3-10.pdf 11/3/10 4:21:52 PM

Enter Your Photos At shutterbuggerz.com

Submitted byLasting Generations Photography

Submitted byCapture Life Photography

Local photos of everyday people, places, and

events as seen through the eyes of the area's


Submitted byMelissa Cockman Photography

Submitted byCindy Craven Photography

Submitted byMichelle Hrin Photography

Submitted byAmanda Carson Photography

Submitted byMelanie Johnson



Photo Submitted By:Elements Photography


Photo Submitted By:Kimberly Michael Photography

Photo Submitted By:Marshall Photography Photo Submitted By:

Elizabeth Sweet Photography


Photo Submitted By:Heart Felt Portraits

Photo Submitted By:As We See It Photography

Photo Submitted By:Erin Annas


Photo Submitted By:Kari Bolick

Photo Submitted By:RSP Photography



Photo Submitted By:KCH Photography

Photo Submitted By:Moments by Megan

Photo Submitted By:Kandy Jordan Photography

Photo Submitted By:Elements Photography


Photo Submitted By:Elizabeth Sweet Photography


Photo Submitted By:Jennifer Corey

Photo Submitted By:Nichol Lancaster Photography

Photo Submitted By:Capture Life Photography


Photo Submitted By:Michelle Hrin Photography

Photo Submitted By:Jennifer Harris

Photo Submitted By:Tonya Lowman Photography

Photo Submitted By:Marshall Photography


Be Sure To Visit

shutterbuggerz.com To Submit, Vote, & View PHotos

Photo Submitted By:Nichol Lancaster Photography

Photo Submitted By:Leslie Taylor


Gracie’ sOld Hollywood

Holiday at

Plan your girl’s night out (with up to 20 of your most FAB friends) and start your Holiday shopping now with cocktails and appetizers

provided by Gracie, of course!

DIVA NIGHT! Take 10% OFF Everything In The Store!

140 North Center Street Statesville, NC 28677

Store Hours:Monday - Friday 10am - 6pm

Saturday 12pm - 4pm (704) 872-6100

“If you can’t handle me at my worst, then you sure

don’t deserve me at my best!” - Marilyn Monroe

Shop online atwww.allgracie.com

Boutique Newborn & Children Portraiture828-381-4127

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BALLET • TAP • JAZZ • HIP HOP POINTE • LYRICAL • PRE-SCHOOL

ADULT CLASSES • ZUMBA

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DENISE LEVAN

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sophie woman's magazine nov 2011 issue

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