teton family winter 14/15

Issue # 17

WINTER 14/15

—

Couture for Men

Pr

actical Mountain—

WHAT’STRENDING?

—

MANNERS SCHOOL

Appropriate conduct for

children of all ages

MAKING SCENTS

Healing with essential oils

THE (NOT- SO) MERRY-GO-ROUND OF

Perimenopause

www.tvhcare.orgwww.tvhcare.orgwww.tvhcare.orgwww.tvhcare.org

www.tvhcare.org

Turns out the perfect sleighhas four wheels.

(307) 733-6600 • 1020 W. Broadway • 405 Powderhorn Lane • www.tetonmotorssubaru.com

“We’re Driven by our customers”

2 Teton Family ¤ Winter 14/15

Note From the Editor

Mountain StyleLOCALS’ TREATMENTAn insider’s guide to slack-time pampering

WHAT’S TRENDING?Mountain fashion for men

Conscientious CookA SWEET IS STILL A SWEETBaking with alternative sweeteners

Ask the ExpertMAKING SCENTSHealing with essential oils

MamasphereA WINTRY SCIENCE MIXWinter experiments for hands-on learners

Cabin FeverHUNKER DOWNSetting winter’s tone for the home, mind, and body

Departments

FEATURES

4

8

9

12

16

32

36

20—THE (NOT-SO) MERRY-GO-ROUND OF PERIMENOPAUSEMenopausal women get all the hype, but hormonal changes can start in your late thirties. Learn how to navigate the perimenopausal storm.

By Dondi Tondro-Smith

24—MANNERS SCHOOLIn our modern world, sometimes manners get thrown to the curb. What’s appropriate nowadays, and what should we instill in our children?

By Christina Shepherd McGuire

On the Cover: Ellery and Enzo enjoy some playtime all decked out in practical mountain threads.Photograph by Jeffrey Kaphan

24—

16—

WINTER 14/15

—Issue # 17 Contents

Women & Infants Center• Spa-like amenities• Family-centered care• Your birth plan is our birth plan• Outstanding classes in childbirth preparation

and newborn care• Walk-in clinic for any concerns during your

doctor’s off-hours• Perinatology services for high-risk pregnancies• High-tech Level III NICU with capabilities for

the tiniest preemies

It’s all in the details.

3100 Channing Way • Idaho Falls eirmc.com/baby

Where you go when it matters.

Planning for your perfect day?

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The other day I deleted the Facebook app from my phone. This is HUGE for me because working as a marketer, editor, and content creator, I feel the need to be constantly plugged in. After all, what if the next big idea comes to me as I’m trolling Facebook at the stoplight, on the chairlift, or on the playground sidelines? Disgusting, I know!

Having it gone felt liberating! I’d been reading about a technology-induced condition called

“continuous partial attention.” Since we inherently don’t want to miss out on anything, being plugged in puts our bodies in this constant state of fight or flight. I was reminded of this while reading our feature article on perimenopause (see page 20), where Ayurvedic practitioner Cate Stillman helps clients achieve a “default state of relaxation.” Hmm, that sounds nice ... Well, you can’t default to relaxation if your state is one of constant partial attention. Now I’m CONVINCED Facebook was disrupting my hormones.

So I applauded myself for having the courage to break free from this habitual pattern. Then I deliciously dove into Andrea’s article on baking with alternative sweeteners on page 12. What a concept! Yes, it will also take bravery to ditch the sugar-laden holiday recipes and bake goodies sweetened with Medjool dates (after all, baking isn’t my strong point). And I’ll also need a little gumption to forego

that extra snowboard run in between work and school pickup, and instead tune into nature’s rhythm this winter (see page 36). Do you see a trend here?

I got to thinking: Doesn’t everyone need a little courage, a little bravery to curb patterns that just don’t serve them? And so I offer you up some discipline this winter to make healthier, more grounding choices for yourself—to LIVE FULLY, as our magazine’s tagline so professes. And to help, try concocting some potions with essential oils (see page 16) or navigate the family holiday dynamic with the etiquette (and sanity) tips on page 24. It will certainly serve you in the end.

As for Facebook, well, I still check it when I’m at my desk. But it doesn’t govern my downtime anymore.

A note from the EDITOR

Contributing WRITERS

Welcome to

Kari Erdman, MS, CHHC, is a holistic nutrition and wellness coach, writer, whole foods queen, and creator of Glorious Granola. She coaches women on making transformational shifts in their health so they can achieve greater energy, vibrancy, and love. Visit her at karierdman.com.

Kate Field is a plant lover, clinical herbalist, and nutritionist. She worked at an herbal apothecary in Bozeman, Montana, crafting aromatic and therapeutic essential oil blends. Now you can find her in the whole health department at Jackson Whole Grocer or traipsing about the Gros Ventre Mountains.

Dondi Tondro-Smith is a Jackson-based writer who is fascinated with culture, kiddos, and the evolution of the human spirit. A healing arts practitioner and yoga aficionado, she delights in reading stories cover to cover, swimming in aqua blue waters, and playing in the Tetons with her daughter and husband.

Kristen Pope made her way to Jackson Hole after living in California, Alaska, and a few places in between. When she isn’t writing or editing, she enjoys traveling, hiking, and backpacking. kepope.com

Jenn Rein works and lives in Teton Valley, Idaho. Her writing allows her access to the locals—a special breed of hardy souls. She enjoys snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, but refuses to downhill (a fact that doesn’t detract from her love of the outdoors or snow). Read Jenn’s work at jennrein.com.

A Roman philosopher once said, “Home is where the heart is,” and contributing writer Andrea Swedberg believes that heartbeat originates in the kitchen. Creating healthy meals and treats for her family fuels the happiness of this chef, outdoor enthusiast, and gardener. Ed

itor

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Phlip

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—Sports Medicine, Arthroscopy

Knee & Shoulder SurgeryTrauma & Fracture Care

Board CertifiedFellowship Trained

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David Khoury, MD

Finding an OrthOpaedic SpecialiSt JuSt gOt eaSier

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Foot & Ankle SurgeryCustom OrthoticsBoard Certified

Fellowship Trained—

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Joint Replacement Fracture Management


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Physical Medicine & RehabilitationBoard Certified


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Adult Spine SurgeryMinimally Invasive Surgery

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Christopher Hills, DO

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Hand & Upper ExtremitySports Injuries

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Knee & Shoulder SurgeryJoint Replacement SurgeryTrauma & Fracture Care


—

clinic locations: Jackson, Wilson, afton, Pinedale, Big Piney, lander, riverton, and rock springs

Andrew Bullington, MD


PublisherKevin Olson

EditorChristina Shepherd McGuire

[email protected]

Art DirectorColleen Valenstein

Copy EditorPamela Periconi

Contributing Photographers Jeffrey Kaphan Ashley Merritt

Paulette Phlipot

Advertising SalesAmy Golightly

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Teton Family is published three times a year and distributed at more than seventy-five locations for free throughout the Tetons. To request copies, call (307) 732-5903. Visit tetonfamilymagazine.com for additional content and insightful blogs. © 2014 Teton Media Works, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction of this magazine’s original contents, whether in whole or part, requires written permission from the publisher.

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LOCALS’ TREATMENT

It’s time to bring some solace back to your soul. Because, despite the glory that is our backyard,

this time of year can deliver stress in the form of work, school breaks, and the regular daily management of life at six-thousand-some-odd feet. For those of us that keep WYDAHO rolling, time to breathe means reaping the rewards of what it means to be local.

So let’s get pampered. We’ve earned it!—

THE A-LIST CELEBRITY—

The Spa at Four Seasons Resort Jackson HoleHave you ever been wrapped in coffee, cinnamon, and white clay? Well, here’s your chance. During the ski season only, The Spa, located in Teton Village, offers Jackson Hole Mountain Resort season pass holders a two-for-one deal on services. Use your Jackson Hole Ski & Snowboard Club coupon to redeem this deal and refer to the booklet for specific blackout dates. fourseasons.com/jacksonhole/spa

Chill Spa at Hotel Terra (pictured above)With a 20-percent-off, year-round locals’ special, why wouldn’t you want to chill in a rooftop hot tub in Teton Village? Or wait until the tourists leave in May to get a fifty-minute spa service for $99 (also good at the Solitude Spa in Teton Mountain Lodge). hotelterrajacksonhole.com/chill-spa

Stillwaters Spa at Teton SpringsSpend $20 or more in services and get access to the outdoor hot tubs, eucalyptus steam room, and relaxation lounge at the base of the pass in Victor. Shoulder season takes it up a notch—luxuriate in the hands of a talented massage therapist for ninety minutes, paying only the sixty-minute rate.tetonspringslodge.com/stillwaters-spa/spa

—THE RHINESTONE COWBOY

—N8V (nā tiv) SalonLocated in Rafter J (who knew?), monthly specials at N8V provide year-round savings. Down for a seaweed wrap? How about an airbrushed tan? Everyone from your boss to your neighbor will wonder how you got that special glow (and you don’t have to disclose that you stopped at Liquor Down South post-appointment). n8vbeautysalonandspa.com

Bear and Doe Banya SpaWhile the explanation of a banya—a compilation of saunas,

steam, cold plunges, and thwacking—may alarm you, this Jackson massage outfit’s menu of services will do anything but. For $75, locals can get one hour of massage work and one round in the infrared or hot saunas. Add $15 to your tab for unlimited use of the facilities. bearanddoebanya.com

—THE SHINY NICKEL

—Diva Nails & SpaNot just for nails, this Jackson gem takes great pride in their facials and wax treatments, too. You will leave feeling, and looking, many years younger. Always on the side of affordable, Diva doesn’t need a locals’ discount to be pocketbook-friendly. 307.734.2586

Whiskey BarberA stone’s throw from Jackson’s Town Square, these guys are killing it with their dude-centric services. The “Dome and Grille,” a haircut and a hot towel shave with a straight razor, will only cost you $50. Spruce up that skull and surprise your lady. whiskeybarber.com

RootsEnjoy a $30 pedi (ski-boot feet and all) year-round at Roots salon in Victor. Or a shoulder-season cut, color, and massage can be had for $150. facebook.com/rootsinvictor

ElevateDig this Driggs salon: lay down $50 for a mani AND pedi. Or choose the haircut-and-eyebrow-wax combo for the low price of $42. Walk away feeling smart and sparkly. facebook.com/ElevateSalon tf

By Jenn Rein

An Insider’s Guide to Slack-Time Pampering

Phot

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Chi

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9Winter 14/15 ¤ Teton Family

WHAT’S TRENDING?

To most men, mountain fashion is more about practicality than looks: Does it keep me warm? Does it pack down small? Is it rugged enough to withstand seasonal beatings?

So at Teton Family, we thought we’d sneak a few local wares into the closets of our nearest and dearest (without overpolicing the effort). A jacket from Stio, pants from Mountain Khakis, or a trucker from Aion all add the right amount of steeze for a night on the town, and enough usefulness for an outing with the boys.

Deck out the little guys, too! No matter what dad’s sporting, we’re sure they’ll want to follow.

By Christina Shepherd McGuire // Photographs by Jeffrey Kaphan

№s

correspond

s descriptions

on pages 10 & 11


STIO—

1. Stio Hometown Down Jacket. Stio delivers a styly update to winter’s uniform. And the water-repellent down in this number absorbs 30 percent less water and dries 60 percent faster than untreated down. $2952. Stio Junction Flannel. The Junction Flannel melds men’s dresswear specs with a laid-back, cozy design. Made of brushed, garment-washed flannel, with felled seams, and laser-etched logo buttons. $983. Stio Rivet Jean. Stio didn’t miss a stitch with their “moderately relaxed” Rivet Jean. Just roll up the cuffs to unveil vintage felled seams for added flair. $1254. Stio Marsten Down Vest. If down jackets make you sweat (we get it—thick blood), Stio’s Marsten Vest should suit your fancy. The abrasion-resistant upper yoke and mini-ripstop torso give it the integrity of your favorite work vessel. $1655. Stio Buckhorn Bonded Flannel Shirt. Don’t leave Stio’s “shop shirt” behind at your favorite après spot; it’s bound to get stolen! This flannel backed with cozy microfleece—a favorite of the Stio crew—will soon become your grab-and-go staple. Just make sure to keep it on lockdown. $1556. Stio Louis Slouch Beanie. The retro styling on the Louis Slouch Beanie reeks of mountain pride (says Stio). And just try combing the thrift store for an imitation with the Tetons on it. Not happening. $307. Stio Kids’ Hometown Down Jacket. The Kids’ Hometown Down Jacket boasts many of the men’s features, plus an added ID label and interior pine cone embossment. No skimping on this best-seller, folks! $1598. Stio Kids’ Rambler Reversible Jacket. After listening to the groms, Stio designers added some hood “attitude” to the mini version of the Rambler Jacket. The twill plaid on one side reverses to a weather-shedding shell, guaranteeing complete playground protection. $989. Stio Kids’ Southwest Jackalope Tee. Does the jackalope really exist? Local artist Tim Tomkinson thinks so ... $25 (not shown)10. Stio Kids’ Jackalope Beanie. Not just for boys, this fleeced-lined beanie comes in three colors with a “no-itch” bonus! $25

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MOUNTAIN KHAKIS—

11. Mountain Khakis Camber 107 Pant. Mountain Khakis blows doors on Carhartt (and rightfully so)! New this season, the men’s Camber 107 Pant supplies the stretch of a yoga pant with the features of a full workhorse. $69.9512. Mountain Khakis Yak Shirt. Yep—this sustainable shirt contains yak hair, woven with hemp and organic cotton for creamy softness. Plus, it’s a good conversation piece. $109.9513. Mountain Khakis Bronze Aspen-Leaf Belt Buckle. This lost-wax-casted belt is almost too pretty to wear. $79.95 (see sidebar)14. Mountain Khakis Log Carrier. The Mountain Khakis Log Carrier won’t leave you empty-handed. Burly enough to carry a big load with its reinforced climbing rope handles. $97.9515. Mountain Khakis Kids’ Original Pant. Perfect for the kid who stacks wood alongside dad. The chap-style knee patches, action gusset, and reinforced heel cuffs fit the ruff-and-tumble wearer. The internal elastic waistband lends room to grow, too. $54.95

MOUNTAIN MAN TOY SHOP—

16. Mountain Man Trucker Hat. The Mountain Man Toy Shop claims this lid as the “modern-day cowboy hat.” Pop into their shop just off Town Square to purchase this fashion icon. $19.9917. Mountain Man Peace Pipe Tomahawk. It’s a hatchet. No, it’s a pipe. Well actually, it’s both! Handmade locally in Idaho Falls, this tool is an excellent thrower and a perfect essential for hunting or camping. Any man on your list will covet this showcase gift. $299

AION—

18. Aion Woodsy Camo Trucker. Aion takes pride in making sweatshop-free wears. So you can feel good rocking the Woodsy Camo Trucker, complete with a low-profile bill. #dontsweatit, $32 19. Aion Zippered Hoodie. Take it down a notch with Aion’s Zippered Hoodie. Sport it on the couch over your favorite jammies or rock it on the hill as the perfect après piece. $59

BILL ROYALL

“If I can’t provide jobs in my own community, then I’m going down with the ship,” says sculptor and artisan Bill Royall, a Teton Valley, Idaho, resident. In between ski runs, Bill crafts bronze belt buckles (like the aspen-leaf buckle featured in this article) for Mountain Khakis. He uses an ancient technique called “lost-wax casting,” where a duplicate metal carving is cast from its original. Bill enhances our community by working with local companies like Mountain Khakis and Rocky Mountain Hardware, the foundry in Blackfoot where his designs are reproduced. Check out his bear claw and trout buckles, too, or catch up with him at williamroyallsculpture.com/gallery.html. tf


A SWEET IS STILL A SWEETBy Andrea Swedberg // Photographs by Paulette Phlipot

Baking with Alternative Sweeteners

On any given Sunday—especially during the holidays—our house claims scents of cinnamon,

nutmeg, cardamom, and vanilla. It’s not unusual for the Mister to come home, stomp the snow off his boots and exclaim, “Do I smell cookies?!” I love to bake, and the holidays offer even more reason to fulfill my baking obsession. So this year, I spent a fair amount of time recipe testing with alternative ingredients. I discovered that while traditional recipes are still king, I’m leaning away from traditional sweeteners.

Sweets—is there a better way, my fellow patissiers, to spread love during the holidays?

These days, my favorite sweeteners are coconut palm sugar (not to be confused with regular palm sugar, which is from a different palm tree) and Medjool dates. The coconut sugar has a deep caramel undertone and imparts

a beautiful golden color to cakes and cookies. And the dates, once pitted, chopped, soaked, and pureed, become a wonderful sweetener and moistener in baked goods recipes.

Now, before we head into the kitchen, I need to say that it doesn’t happen often that someone speaks my mind almost better than if I said it myself. But just the other day, Irvin Lin, a fellow lover of baking, professed in his blog, eatthelove.com, just why he adores it. He was comparing the art of baking to the science of it. As I read, Lin conveyed my beliefs exactly: While the food world is fueled by two concepts (art and science), one thing remains constant—if you prepare food with love, those partaking will feel loved! So, it may be science, it may be art, but however it bakes up (alternative sweeteners or not), it’s baking season! Happy holidays and, as always, bon appétit.


Delivering More!

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- Prenatal care services

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SPICED CHRISTMAS CAKE—

Makes one 8-inch cake or 8 cupcakes—

This little gem is quickly making its way onto my personal “holiday favorites” list! The coconut palm sugar’s caramel undertone pairs happily with a warm sipper of Glögg and a well-lit Christmas tree.

1/4 cup coconut flour 1/4 cup almond meal 2 tablespoons coconut oil, room temperature 3 tablespoons almond milk* (or sub 2 tablespoons chai and 1 tablespoon almond milk) 3 egg whites AND 2 whole eggs, room temp, gently whipped together 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/4 teaspoon sea salt 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger 1/8 teaspoon ground clove Pinch of nutmeg 5 tablespoons coconut palm sugar 4 tablespoons arrowroot powder 1. Preheat oven to 340° F.2. Line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper, cut to fit, or line a

cupcake tin with festive cupcake liners.3. In a medium-size bowl, cream the flour and meal with the oil.4. In a separate bowl, combine almond milk, eggs, and vanilla. Pour this into

the creamed mixture, mixing completely with no lumps.5. In a third bowl, mix the dry ingredients: baking powder, salt, spices, sugar,

and arrowroot. Whisk to combine.6. Add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture. Combine completely.7. Scrape the batter into a cake pan and spread to level or fill cupcake liners

two-thirds full.8. Bake 20 to 23 minutes for a cake and 18 to 20 minutes for cupcakes,

or until the cake springs back when gently depressed and an inserted toothpick comes out clean.

9. Turn out of pan to cool completely.10. Allow to cool completely before frosting. (I enjoy a cinnamon-ginger

buttercream frosting.)

*Note: Baking with a combination of coconut flour and almond meal can lend a grainy, even crumbly, texture. But using arrowroot powder

as a tenderizing agent results in a perfectly soft and moist crumb.


20 Medjool dates, pitted and soaked* 1/4 cup organic raisins, soaked* 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 2 eggs 3/4 cup gluten-free oat bran (I like Bob’s Red Mill) 1/2 cup almond meal (you can make your own by pulsing raw almonds until fine) 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 4 tablespoons arrowroot powder 8 ounces mini chocolate chips (I like Enjoy Life) 1 tablespoon coconut oil for prepping pan

*Note: Soak together with just enough water to cover for about an hour, or longer if time

allows. The softer, the better.

1. Preheat oven to 340° F.2. Grease an 8-by-9-inch pan with coconut oil. 3. Drain water from dates and raisins, without

pressing.4. Combine dates, raisins, vanilla, and eggs in

a food processor. Pulse to an almost-smooth paste.

5. In a separate medium bowl, combine the dry ingredients: oat bran, almond meal, baking powder, soda, salt, and arrowroot. Whisk well to combine.

6. Fold chocolate chips into the dry mixture.7. Add pulsed date mixture to the dry mixture.

Combine well.8. Pour batter into prepped pan.9. Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick

inserted in the middle comes out clean. It’s OK if the melted chocolate sticks.

10. Let cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.

PIIA’S HAPPY BARS—

Makes approximately 20 bars (depends on how you cut ’em)

—Cakey, moist, chocolatey, and SWEET—with dates, that is—these bars are easy to make and can be used as the bottom layer to an even more exquisite creation.


625 E. Broadway Jackson, WY 307 739 6195

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- Regular clinics with John Ward, MD, hematologist/oncologist from Huntsman Cancer

Institute in Salt Lake City, UT - Nationally certified oncology nurses

- Chemotherapy and biotherapy infusion services

- On-site oncology nurse practitioner: Kerry Carr, FNP-BC, AOCNP

- Cancer patient navigator: Paige Janssen, RN, OCN, CBPN-C

- Individualized survivorship plans including nutrition, exercise and psychosocial support

- Cancer support groups

- Therapies that complement treatment, including hand massage for infusion patients, healing touch, and reduced-rate acupuncture

FRUIT AND NUT DARK CHOCOLATE CLUSTERS

—Makes approximately 11 clusters

—Quick, easy, and beautiful! Share these festive little bundles on small squares of parchment, as they melt easily. Or stack them three high, tie with kitchen twine, and place them in a box with tissue for a scrumptious gift.

3 Coconut Secret Peruvian dark chocolate bars* (or sub your favorite alternatively sweetened variety, approx. 6 ounces) 20 whole, raw cashews 20 macadamia halves, roasted and salted 20 pecan pieces 20 dried cranberries 1 tablespoon cacao nibs (optional) 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut, toasted

*Available at Jackson Whole Grocer and Barrels & Bins in Driggs

1. Slowly melt the chocolate in a double boiler.2. Spoon the melted chocolate, by the tablespoonful, into 1-inch rounds on a

silicone mat or parchment-covered baking sheet. 3. Allow to cool about 3 minutes. 4. Arrange nuts, fruit, and nibs (if using) on chocolate rounds, finishing edges

with toasted coconut. 5. Allow to cool on countertop 15 minutes, then place the sheet in the fridge to

cool completely.6. Serve when solid. Store extras in the freezer. tf


MAKING SCENTS

I remember discovering essential oils on two separate occasions:

once as a teenager in a head shop in the Connecticut suburbs, and once again as a young woman in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California. The first oil came in a small glass vial labeled “patchouli”; the second as a crystalized resin embedded in a freshly cut round of ponderosa pine. The patchouli smelled like rotting earth, my mother complained. And the pine reminded me of the turpentine my father kept in our garage back home.

Years later, I learned that volatile oils, or “essential” oils, are made up of different chemical compounds found in plants. The combination of chemicals creates a scent profile for that particular species. It is the high concentration of sesquiterpines in decaying patchouli leaves and the terpenes in pine that largely influence their unique scents. Not only are these oils aromatic, they also provide key benefits to the plant. The oils in the ponderosa pine, which stood dead on the ground and in the snow for many years, protected it from bugs, mycelium, and other decomposing factors.

How are essential oils made?Humans have used plants for their aromatic and healing properties for at least 9,000 years, though I imagine it’s more likely since the beginning of time. Some of the earliest methods of extraction included steeping plant material in a carrier oil of animal fat, nut, or seed to form ointments and salves. Today, you can buy essential oils in vials

and use them for their antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, digestive, immune-boosting, antidepressant, aphrodisiac, diuretic, moisturizing, analgesic (pain-relieving), and sedating benefits, to name just a few.

Steam distillation is the most common form of essential oil extraction. Material is placed into a still. Pressurized steam rises and passes through the material, opening the cell walls of the plant. Then, the essential oils evaporate and rise with the steam into a cooling chamber in the still. As the vapor is cooled, the water and oil return to their liquid state and are separated into essential oil and hydrosol (aromatic water). To gain perspective on the enormity of this process, it takes between 2,000 and 5,000 pounds

Healing with Essential Oils

COLD AND FLU Go-Tos:

By Kate Field

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.com

Lavender, lemon, and chamomile boost the immune system.Orange, lemon, and pine produce antiviral actions.Thyme, oregano, and clove are stimulating (get things moving) and antibacterial. *Meant for short-term use in high dilution only.Proprietary immune blends: Aura Cacia’s Medieval Mix, Young Living’s Thieves Oil, and dōTERRA’s On Guard.

•

•

•

•


BREATHE IN Something Local:

—Wind River HerbsCurtis and Karen Haderlie, of Thayne, Wyoming, grow organic and wild-harvested herbs. Stop into Jackson Whole Grocer to sample their essential oils. windriverherbs.com

American Wilderness BotanicalsBen Clark, of Jackson, specializes in locally and ethically wildcrafted essential oils and hydrosols. Check him out at americanwildernessbotanicals.com.

St. John’s is pleased to announce premier services in state-of-the-art facilities

• New 4,000-square-foot Oncology Pavilion

• New surgery suites outfitted for high-tech care

• New 11,000-square-foot Birth Center

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NOW OPEN!

of rose petals to yield 1 pound of rose essential oil. Wow! Due to the highly concentrated nature of essential oils, I recommend purchasing organic or wildcrafted oils.

How do you use them?Essential oils are absorbed into the body via the skin or airway and used to treat a plethora of different conditions. Some parents rub immune-boosting essential oils (see sidebar) into the soles of their children’s feet to reduce the number and severity of colds and sickness. This is great practice for adults, too, as our foot soles contain large pores for absorption and reflexology points that aid our various bodily systems. You can also use a body mist as a subtle perfume that shifts energy. Lavender, one of the most well-known essential oils, relaxes the mind and helps with insomnia, anxiety, fear, or general nervousness. Use rose for deep sorrow and grief—its comforting smell gives a sense of hope (a good one to remember when the winter blues settle in).

One of the lesser-known, yet significant, benefits of using essential oils is their ability to promote vitality by increasing the vibrational frequency of the human body. Rose oil has one of the highest frequencies, measuring anywhere between 52 to 320 MHz (in comparison, processed food measures in at 0 MHz). Just a few drops a day can change the function of the immune system and the state of consciousness.


Where do I start?Before incorporating oils into your daily routine, it is always necessary to dilute them properly. Direct application can burn and injure the skin, or cause liver damage in young children or fragile adults. As a rule of thumb, dilute six to twelve drops of essential oil in one ounce of carrier oil for skin application; dilute five to ten drops of essential oil in four ounces of water for a body mist; and use three to ten drops in your bathtub. I love using jojoba oil for a base since it resembles the sebum our skin naturally produces. Still, any cold-pressed raw oil will work. Veer toward the low end of these recommendations for children and pregnant women.

Some essential oils are contraindicated in pregnancy because of their stimulating effects. Safe choices for pregnancy include chamomile, lavender, frankincense, sandalwood, spearmint (inhaling this oil helps relieve morning sickness), rose, and ylang-ylang.

What about internal use?Many practitioners don’t recommend essential oils for internal use because they can irritate the mucous membranes. Some companies, however, do advertise and promote safe, internal use of therapeutic-grade essential oils. And they are always recommended at extremely low doses. Even still, I take a more conservative approach to using plants medicinally and prefer teas, herbal extracts, and flower essences. Or, I just eat them!

Whether it is patchouli or pine, lemon or lavender, rosemary or rose, there’s an oil out there that has just what you’re hoping for. Breathe deep!

LOVE AND LIGHT MASSAGE BARS

— (An ounce of tenderness for the long winter)

—I use my favorite uplifters for this recipe. My bars help reduce fatigue, anxiety, and depression, while keeping the skin elastic. Try them on stretch marks, wrinkles, and scars, too.

4 ounces coconut oil 4 ounces cocoa butter or shea butter (or a combo of the two) 3 ounces beeswax 25 drops geranium essential oil 25 drops coriander essential oil 15 drops bergamot essential oil 15 drops blood orange essential oil 10 drops lavender essential oil 10 drops rose absolute essential oil (or rosewood)

1. Melt coconut oil and butter in a saucepan on medium-low heat.

2. When liquefied, add the beeswax. Turn off the heat when beeswax is melted and add the essential oils to desired fragrance.

3. Pour into silicone molds (mine are heart-shaped).

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Other Essential Oil Resources:

Young Living - youngliving.comdōTERRA - doterra.com

Aura CaciaAvailable at Jackson Whole Grocer,

Barrels & Bins in Driggs, or auracacia.com


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HYDROSOL LOTION* —

No need for spendy wrinkle creams, ladies! Instead, invest in ingredients to whip up batches of your own. This lotion helps repair damaged skin cells and reduces the signs of aging with vitamins C and E and essential fatty acids.

—*Adapted from Rosemary Gladstar’s Perfect Cream

Oils: 4 ounces jojoba oil (infused with horsetail, arnica, or calendula, if desired) 2 ounces rosehip seed oil 2 ounces coconut oil 1 ounce beeswax 1 ounce cocoa butter 1/2 ounce mango butter or shea butter 1/2 teaspoon vitamin E oil 1/4 teaspoon lanolin (optional)

Waters: 4 ounces aloe vera juice 5 1/2 ounces hydrosol of your choice: rose, lavender, or sagebrush (available locally at Jackson Whole Grocer or American Wilderness Botanicals)

Bonus: 30 drops emu oil (available at Jackson Whole Grocer) 5-30 drops essential oil (like carrot seed, neroli, or rose)

1. Heat oils and butter in a saucepan on medium-low heat; melt in the beeswax. 2. Let cool until the oils begin to slightly solidify (this will help the lotion

emulsify better). Slowly beat in waters until combined.3. Add essential oils, if desired. 4. Spoon into small jars. Label and date them. Store in a cool place. Keep extras

in the fridge. tf

Res

ources

→ Kathi Keville, Aromatherapy: A Complete Guide to the Healing Art, 2008

→ Jeanne Rose, The Aromatherapy Book: Applications & Inhalations, 1993

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F ( not-so )

Merry-Go-Rounde

PerimenopauseBy Dondi Tondro-Smith

Menopausal women get all the hype—and for good reason. Hormonal changes can cause serious

upheavals in a woman’s life. After all, hormones are, in part, responsible for our brain’s view of reality (i.e., our emotions) and our overall health and vitality. Simply speaking, hormone imbalances can rock your endocrine world! For the brave souls trying to achieve balance amidst this midlife transition, much can be done to support the body and mind and to decrease unwanted symptoms.

When we think about women nearing the end of their childbearing years, the archetypal image of a crone, or wise,

gray-haired woman of wisdom, comes to mind. But in reality, the road to twelve consecutive missed periods, a.k.a. menopause, sometimes starts in your late thirties or early forties. During this phase, wavering ovarian function is responsible for spikes and dips in estrogen and progesterone levels. This uneven rise and fall of hormones can make you feel like your body is on a (not-so) merry-go-round. Some ladies feel crazed, thinking these changes are all in their head. For others, elongated cycles with heavy blood flow and short, sporadic, or missed periods, leave them iron-depleted or fearing a potential pregnancy. The broad spectrum of hormonally influenced symptoms—declining libido, bone loss, weight gain, hot flashes, night sweats, depression, and erratic mood swings—may necessitate treatment. Luckily, there are tools available to reduce and alleviate symptoms, promoting higher levels of health and sanity.


HRT (Hormone Replacement

Therapy)

For decades, women coping with the effects of menopause have been prescribed non-human and plant-based hormones to curb symptoms. Babs Melka, pharmacist and owner of Roadrunner Apothecary in Jackson, says she fills an increasing number of prescriptions for hormone replacement. She stresses that estrogens (manufactured and compounded) need to be balanced with other hormones in order to achieve proper therapy. Melka explains, “When treating hormonal imbalance, there’s always the possibility of turning on cancer receptor cells that then aren’t being allowed to turn off in a natural fashion.” Yet sometimes the benefits outweigh the risks. A woman has to first assess her familial history and her predisposition to certain types of cancer before making a decision.

When people come to Melka with hormonal symptoms, she first suggests herbal supplement blends over hormone replacement. But if you want to take a more natural approach, ask your doctor about using plant-based hormones made from soy or yam and available in most health food stores. These bioidentical hormones are synthesized and mixed with enzymes that break the molecules down into the correct structure. Then they’re mixed into creams, oils, and sprays. But are they safer?

According to Sally Luke, a nurse practitioner in Wilson, “All hormones added to the body increase chances for developing cancer. The term ‘bioidentical’ does not mean ‘safe.’ Eighty percent of breast cancers have estrogen and progesterone receptors just waiting for stimulation.” Make sure you and your health care provider consider many modes of treatment before agreeing to hormone replacement therapies.

Environmental Factors

Man-made toxins in our environment can also disrupt the endocrine system. “In the past, thyroid-related imbalances of estrogen were generally a factor in pre-

and post-menopausal women,” Melka explains. “Alarmingly, though, the instances of thyroid conditions in newborn babies and young children are on the rise.”

Proper functioning of the thyroid gland is key to how our bodies navigate perimenopause, making iodine essential. Yet other elements can mimic iodine in the body, causing the natural element to leach from our systems. Common offenders include the fluoride in toothpaste, bromine in pesticides, chlorine in the water supply, and fluorine in the manufacturing of plastics. Sunscreens containing tiny zinc and titanium particles, called nanoparticles, can act as endocrine disruptors, too. Chemicals from dryer sheets, clothing made from plastics, and the numerous creams we put on our skin (and our children’s skin as well) can also affect how symptomatic we become in perimenopause.

The Great Masquerade

When analyzing your hormonal health, physicians first review your body mass index, the type and quality of foods you consume, and your overall fitness level. Next, they also consider genetic factors that may influence your body’s reaction to these changes. And they don’t overlook mimicking symptoms caused from stress, heart disease, thyroid issues, depression, or chemical dependence. According to Luke, “You need to start with a full array of reality [to see] what’s really going on in that unique body.”

Claudia Welch, hormonal harmony advocate and author, explains that women are really good at mining their bodily resources and outspending their energy. Cate Stillman, an Ayurvedic practitioner based in Tetonia, Idaho, who has worked with Welch, concurs that bodily imbalances don’t just suddenly appear but, rather, build up over time. She explains, “During perimenopause, there’s a lightening up on our tolerance for imbalance ... Perimenopause, and menopause, is a reckoning day for past patterns. [During this time] a lot of people turn to herbs

or pharmaceuticals when things get hard.” She has seen many clients that are depleted, both emotionally and physically, and lack integrity in their “life force” or prana. Stillman discloses that our M.O. as a society is a busy, stressful, wear-out-the-nervous-system vibrational pattern—one that we ultimately pay for as life moves on.

So are our habitual patterns worth our health?

By changing subtle patterns, we have the ability to completely alter our mental and physical experience. Stillman advises giving up wine, avoiding dehydrating drinks like coffee, and simplifying your diet to shift your field of interconnectivity. She asks her clients to make changes in their daily habits in order to achieve a default state of relaxation, ease, and ultimate

Hey fellas ...—

EVER HEAR OF ANDROPAUSE?

—In midlife, men may experience similar symptoms to the perimenopausal changes in women. Yet gradual declines in testosterone can be easy to miss. According to Dr. Jim Davis, fatigue is often the first symptom. As testosterone naturally declines in middle-aged men, the production of estrogen increases, sometimes leading to hot flashes, pronounced physical and behavioral changes—not just in sexual desire—and a decreased desire to participate in what once brought fulfillment.

Do you have the same passions, or has a state of lethargy become your norm?

If your waist has expanded, yet you’ve changed nothing in your diet or routine, a decrease in testosterone may be the culprit. Testosterone levels are measured by a blood or saliva test. But testing isn’t always accurate, since testosterone metabolizes quickly, so talk to your doctor first. And if someone at the gym suggests a testosterone supplement to keep those muscles from going south—think twice. Prescribed testosterone can lower sperm count, affecting reproductive health. Lastly, it’s important to determine if a low testosterone level is due to normal aging or an underlying disease.


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energetic efficiency. She adds, “We are always in a state of transition. When we get attached to who we were, we create a lot of problems. If you’re trying to make a change by yourself, you’re making it harder.” Empower yourself by seeking out support groups in your community, or online, who are gracefully navigating their midlife transition, too.

The Eastern View

Acupuncturist Angela Tong speaks from the perspective of Chinese medicine: Women go through eight-year cycle shifts. Around the fifth or sixth shift, approximately age forty to forty-five, a woman’s kidney energy begins to decline. This shift in source energy produces the hormonal changes often referred to in Western medicine as a “hormonal imbalance.” When this happens, inflammatory reactions become more pronounced.

The spleen may also weaken, affecting our digestive energy and sometimes resulting in food sensitivities or allergies. Tong lends insight: “That’s when we need to start addressing our diet and realizing ... we can’t do what we did in our twenties.” She suggests watching our intake of dairy, wheat, sugar, alcohol, and caffeine. Not only do these foods weaken our spleen and further tax our digestion, they also add heat and inflammation to the body. She adds, “We can’t prevent the decline of kidney energy ... that’s called aging. But we can minimize symptoms.”

The Mind/Body Connection

When we talk about hormones, we must also consider the health of the adrenals. And when we talk adrenals, we must talk about balancing the thyroid and hypothalamus glands. And then if we’re still talking, we cannot leave out the second brain—our intestines and digestive health. Dr. Jim Davis, a Driggs chiropractor well versed in naturopathic medicine and acupuncture, lays it out: “Everything has to do with everything. If you have a heart problem [for example], your hormones are not going to be in balance.”

Dr. Davis also suggests that the subconscious mind plays a major part in our body’s ability to heal and cope with internal imbalances. Deep mental patterns have just as big of an effect on our body as external influences. When we look at it this way, perimenopause becomes an opportunity to check in with our entire sense of life balance and to review how our lifestyle affects our relationship to spirit, mind, and body.

Perimenopausal imbalances can lead to discovery. If we use our midlife as an opportunity to practice aging and to aspire to greater health and understanding, we become masters of our own hormonal fate. Think of it as an array of tools in your pocket. Whichever tool(s) you choose ultimately gives you the power to face this change with healing grace. tf

Res

ources

Suggested Resources:

—Yoga asana for perimenopause: vanessayogalife.comHormone balancing: drclaudiawelch.comYoga and wellness: yogahealer.comAcupuncture: tetonyoga.com/acupuncture/Andropause: bodylogicmd.com/for-men/andropause


MANNERS SCHOOL


25Winter 14/15 ¤ Teton Family 25Winter 14/15 ¤ Teton Family


Y ou know the scenario. In fact, you’ve probably starred in the show: Kids run amok around the restaurant while fellow diners give parents

the stink eye. Or, a guest shows up to a holiday party empty-handed—and fashionably late, of course—to see a mountain of offerings on a dressed-to-the-nines table. Or even still, a mother-in-law scoffs at her daughter-in-law’s oversight of handwritten thank-yous. What gives?

The modern view on manners and etiquette varies drastically from the era that, say, our parents grew up in. Today’s progressive parents have a new set of rules that jive with a more casual lifestyle, and the “plugged in and tuned out” existence of contemporary adults just doesn’t lend the time. But while many of us were taught manners as children, it seems we sometimes struggle as adults to recall the lessons learned. So in an effort to recapture that connection, here’s the lowdown.

Manners build character. Exercising polite behavior is a form of self-discipline that makes you stop, think about the course of your actions, and behave appropriately. Manners are the “pleases” and “thank yous,” the handshakes, and learning to listen first before speaking. They are the feel-good foundation of personal connection.

Etiquette, on the other hand, gets a bad rap. These expected, and sometimes old-fashioned, practices dictate a fussy code of conduct. While requiring young children to bow or curtsy is a true practice of the past, some old ways, like covering your mouth while yawning (to avoid swallowing flies), are still routine. Today, our modern, watered-down etiquette simply aids in the flow, it assists people in their everyday lives, and it helps establish respect among peers.

One of my dearest friends secretly wishes her kids would call me Mrs. McGuire. “We live in such a casual area that

it’s not uncommon for children to call friends’ parents by their first names,” she explains, “But in the South [where she grew up], that just doesn’t fly.”

Another friend claims, “We don’t really do manners”—a growing practice among free-range parents.

To me, these two opposing views represent the confusion over what to teach our children. And if you run the middle ground between uber proper and genuinely lax, where do you start?

First, manners teach confidence. “Manners help children become successful humans in our world,” explains Mary Kitto, a fifth-grade teacher at Wilson Elementary. A child who is taught to sit up straight at dinner and address an adult when they’re spoken to builds a sense of self-worth. Once these habits become ingrained, the child will be more likely to speak up when he has a concern or raise his hand and answer a challenging classroom question.

“Please” and “thank you.” My daughter’s teacher once told me that it takes children something like 4,000 repetitions to make an exercise habitual (don’t quote me on this). So start teaching polite words early. Teach the basics, like “please” and “thank you,” as soon as your toddler starts talking. Lead by example and request that your child says “please” when asking for something. Eventually she’ll realize she gets what she wants when she uses this nicety. And always conclude the interaction with a “thank you.” The earlier you start, the less chance of having whiny grade-schoolers moaning, “I want [this], I want [that] ... ”

No interrupting. Kids want their needs addressed, well, let’s just say, yesterday. And there’s nothing more annoying, especially to childfree peers, than having an adult conversation interrupted. Then, after several rounds of ignoring Johnny, he starts screaming RIGHT IN YOUR FACE! How embarrassing!

Well, I researched this one thoroughly, thumbing through varied procedures, until I read an insightful post by a homeschool blogger at aneverydaystory.com. She teaches patience in a loving and passive way: When your child needs to say something, instead of interrupting, have him place his hand on your wrist and wait. Then, place your hand on his wrist to acknowledge that you’ll get to him shortly. At the next pause, let him speak.

Remarkable! I’m starting this one tomorrow.

g

Manners vs. Etiquetteh

Instilling Manners in Childrenh

By Christina Shepherd McGuire // Photographs by Ashley Merritt


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Dinner manners: the stuff that etiquette is made from. Now I’m not talking about formal table settings here—although I do think the knowledge is useful—just some basic rules for eating in, eating out, and engaging around the table.

Here’s what I’m firm on:

a Sit up straight and use utensils, when applicable.a If we’re out to eat, engage in table conversation or take-along

projects, such as coloring or looming, until the food comes out (no phone or iPad, although I’ve caved a time or two). If the restaurant has activities or games, play on your own with voices quiet and manners mild.

a Talk about your day. Some families discuss their daily “highs” and “lows” at the dinner table. This is a great segue into reviewing feelings or acknowledging an important occurrence.

a No cellphones or computers at the dinner table. And if someone calls or texts, answer only after you’re excused (still teaching this one to my husband).

“I think teaching manners should begin at home and then be reinforced by the ‘village,’ ” professes Kitto, who explains Wilson Elementary’s Second Step program (skills for social and academic success). It has three segments: 1. Empathy and skills for learning, 2. Emotion management, and 3. Problem solving. This program is implemented on both sides of the hill as part of a K-5 emotional and social development curriculum. “It reinforces treating others like you want to be treated,” Kitto says.

Now the kids are in check, but what about the adults?Looking around in a ski-bum town, it sometimes appears that

manners have been thrown to the curb. Like, who really waves their girlfriend into the gondola first or leaves their cellphone at home when party-hopping?

I feel it’s due time to get back to the old traditions ...

Actions speak louder than words. Maybe it’s a company Christmas party or community event that puts you in a crowd. If so, make a good impression by listening more than you talk. Parties connect people, so show sincere interest in others, making them feel like you’re enjoying their company. And put away your phone. In fact, leave it in the car. Nothing is more annoying than a fellow partygoer shooting multiple selfies and then uploading them to Instagram.

Dinner parties. Rule number one: RSVP, and in a timely manner! Remember, it’s just plain rude to drag your feet until you’re privy to the attendee list. And speaking of feet—when you arrive at the host’s

Shouldn’t Manners Be Taught in School?h

Etiquette Survival For Adultsh

Party Etiquetteh


house, take off your snowy boots. If it’s a formal function, ladies, pack a pair of shoes for the après. And guys, ditch the Sorels for slip-ons.

If you’re invited to a dinner party, always bring a gift to go with the meal. Beer and wine will suffice, but before hitting the drive-thru at The Coach, check with the host to see what she’s serving and come with an accoutrement that pairs well. You’ll get extra brownie points, I swear!

Familial gatherings. In my family, we have an expression. We call ourselves “The Relations.” And it’s said with a tone that jokingly signifies our commitment to each other, regardless of our individual, quirky nuances. Family gatherings are large, involve lots of food and drink, and ultimately end with some off-the-cuff comment that causes certain members to leave feeling awkward. Then we do it all over again next year.

So if there really is a thing called “family etiquette,” here’s a crash course:a First, ditch the notion of the perfect cookie-cutter family. It

doesn’t exist. Embrace what you have and roll with it, knowing the lewd comments just come with the territory.

a Curb the gifts. To cut down on holiday spending and to avoid the awkwardness of who to buy for, suggest drawing names or gifting the kids only.

a Reserve judgment. Maybe uncle Dan got a little tipsy or showed up slightly disheveled this year. Bite your lip, especially in front of the children. While they might sense something is off, they will soon forget if you reserve criticism.

a Practice the art of thank-you notes and teach it to your children. Maybe it’s not your gig; I get it! But in the era of modern technology, a short email to your mother-in-law goes a long way. Or have your kids craft their own note, transforming an obligatory commitment into a cool art project.

a If you’re hosting the family, invite the masses and plan numerous activities. It’s hard for the offender(s) to act out with lots of commotion.

As a post-feminist, I have to admit I like (and even expect) having the door opened for me and having my chair pulled out at a table. And I give props to guys who routinely give up their seat in a crowded bar. So how can you, as a man, make sure you’re up to snuff? And how can we, as women, support you in this movement?

Let’s get real—some of the gentlemanly gestures are truly outdated. But if you want to set yourself apart from the pack, then try: opening the door for a woman when entering a building; pulling the chair out for your date before seating yourself; and offering to pay for the meal, even if your date is your wife. Offer compliments, without using creepy pick-up lines, and never insult your date, even if you think it’s constructive criticism. Above all else, let your girlfriend drop into the pristine powder first. After all, she earned her turns, too.

And ladies, cut a guy a break. I realize that we’re all capable of opening our own doors and even chopping our own firewood. But if we just let down our guard every once in awhile, maybe our male counterparts will feel inspired to impress us. And who knows—the gesture might just rub off on the kids as well. tf

Ladies First (Gentlemanly Rules)h

Outdated Rules You Can Break:g

1. Unmarried couples shouldn’t sleep together.

2. It’s never OK to eat with your hands.3. Remove your hat when inside.4. Send professional emails during

business hours only.5. Sit with your ankles crossed.6. Eliminate swearing from workplace

conversations.7. When finished with dinner, place

your knife and fork at 6:30 p.m.8. Stand up whenever a woman enters

or leaves the room or meeting.


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Teton Science Schools hosts an Adventures in Etiquette camp for kids grades 3 to 5 in June. For more info, check out tetonscience.org.


A Wintry SCIENCE MIXBy Kristen Pope // Photographs by Paulette Phlipot

With cold temperatures outside, it’s easy for cabin fever to set in, especially if you’re a

parent (or homeschooler) searching for alternatives to winter-break idle time. And while the role of teacher may come naturally to some, others may struggle with explaining concepts or supplementing curriculum. But by stepping outside the traditional

classroom, we can use the wintry weather as a science learning opportunity.

The experiments that follow offer at-home learning tools to explain winter science concepts to children of all ages. These activities provide educational enrichment opportunities for parents who want to add a little “wow” to the world of science.


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A WHALE OF A BLUBBER MITTEN:

—Whales, seals, walruses, sea lions, polar bears, and other marine mammals use a special adaptation called “blubber” to stay warm in bitterly cold seas. These warm-blooded mammals, different from fish, crabs, and sharks, rely on their blubber layer of fat to help their bodies maintain temperature.

This experiment demonstrates the insulating properties of blubber. And while your mitten will only have a thin layer of fake blubber, whales and other marine mammals have a thick blubber coat. Right whales, which live near the North Pole and Antarctica, can have blubber up to a foot thick!

Materials: 2 zipping plastic bags 2 to 3 cups of Crisco (or other shortening) Large bowl of snow or ice water Thermometer (optional) Stopwatch (optional)

Steps:1. Fill a plastic bag with approximately 2 to 3 cups of shortening.2. Turn the other bag inside out and carefully place it inside the bag with the

shortening.3. Zip the 2 bags together (one right side out with the shortening inside and the

other flipped inside-out, inside the shortening-filled bag). Don’t worry if the bags don’t zip all the way. This is your blubber mitten.

4. Quickly place your bare hand in a bowl of snow or ice water. How cold does it feel? Use a thermometer to measure the temperature. Water near the North Pole and Antarctica hovers near freezing (32 degrees Fahrenheit).

5. Place your hand in the blubber mitten, and then place it back in the bowl. How cold does it feel now? Check the temperature inside the blubber mitten with your thermometer and compare it to temperature inside the bowl.

6. Use a clothespin or tape to attach the blubber mitten to the inside of the bowl (to prevent the entry of snow or water). Leave it there for 5 minutes. What will the temperature be inside the blubber mitten after 5 minutes? After 10 minutes? Check your thermometer to compare your guesses.


Soap bubbles are created when a thin sheet of water is trapped between two layers of soap molecules, creating a spherical shape. A sphere has a minimal amount of surface area, making it the most efficient shape for a bubble. Even bubbles blown from odd-shaped wands end up spherical.

Have you ever played with bubbles in the wintertime? This activity works best when the outside temperature is 10°F or colder. But feel free to experiment with different bubble mixes at different temperatures—it’s all science!

—Materials:BowlBubble wandsStore-bought bubble mix or bubble mix recipe Stopwatch (optional)

Bubble Mix Recipe: 1/2 cup Dawn or Joy dish soap 1/4 cup corn syrup 1 1/2 cups water

Steps:1. Create the bubble mix by mixing the water, dish soap,

and corn syrup together in a bowl. Or, use a store-bought variety. Note—the thicker the mixture, the sturdier the bubbles.

2. Dip your wand into the mixture and very slowly wave the wand. If you wave it slowly enough, the water will freeze before the bubble bursts.

3. Experiment with blowing into the wand to create bubbles. Notice that the warm air from your lungs heats the water in the bubble mixture, making the bubbles freeze slower.

4. Experiment with the store-bought bubble mix and the bubble mix recipe. Which one works better? Why do you think that is? Which bubble mix do you think will take longer to freeze? Why?

5. Wave the bubble wand slowly, and then at varying speeds. Time how long each bubble takes to freeze.

6. Blow bubbles and catch one on the wand. Hold it on the wand until it starts to freeze. After some time, the frozen soap bubble will rupture as the air trapped inside escapes, causing it to crack and collapse. Watch the unique crystal patterns, shapes, and cracks that form.

FROZEN BUBBLE FUN:—


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SNOWFLAKE SCIENCE: —

Wilson Bentley devoted his life to snow science and discovered that no two snowflakes are alike. He practiced photomicrography (a fancy way of saying he photographed snowflakes underneath a microscope), taking the first-ever photo of a single snowflake in 1885.

Be a modern-day snowflake scientist by making observations about the variations in snowflakes. While no two are exactly alike, they do share characteristics and features. Print out the chart listed below to help you identify different snowflakes features.

Materials:Printed copy of snow crystal chart its.caltech.edu/~atomic/snowcrystals/

kids/snowtypes.jpgWarm clothesA snowy dayDark construction paperAn outdoor tableMicroscope or hand lensMarkers or crayons in 3 different colors

Steps:1. Print out the snowflake chart from the Web address above. 2. Dress warmly and go outside on a snowy day.3. Collect a single snowflake on a sheet of paper and bring it to an outdoor

table. 4. With a microscope or hand lens, take a close look at the snowflake. What

shapes do you see? 5. Look at the snow crystal chart and use one of the markers or crayons to circle

the shapes that you see. 6. Collect 2 more snowflakes and repeat steps 4 and 5, using a different colored

marker for each snowflake.7. Compare the shapes that you circled. Did the snowflakes have any shapes in

common? What similarities did you notice? What differences did you notice?8. Hypothesize! Why do you think snowflakes have certain similarities and

differences? Do different storms have different types of snowflakes? Try this experiment again the next time it snows and note any variances.

—

Older kids can expand their study by becoming snowpack scientists. Contact the Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center for information on local classes and events. tf


During the winter, most people head indoors and come out only when spring sheds its light. But not if you live in the Tetons (as this Iowa transplant is learning!). Just like the summers, the winters here are

equally buzzing with activity. And despite the shorter days, there’s still a cultural pull to play hard, even amidst the busyness of

work, family, and the holidays.But this intensity doesn’t always jive with the natural

rhythm of winter’s solace. So this year, why not step into the pulse of the season by preparing your home, body, and mind for optimal health and vibrancy.

A Humble AbodeYour home is your sanctuary. When you walk in the door you should immediately feel a sense of relief and relaxation. Yet in the winter, this place of warmth and comfort can create a feeling of claustrophobia or cabin fever. The key to thwarting these sometimes-inevitable moods starts with some creativity.

So I sought out design expert Jeffery Larson of Harker Design in Wilson to tell us how it’s done. “Color is so important in affecting mood,”

HUNKER DOWN

By Kari Erdman // Illustration by Birgitta Sif

Setting Winter’s Tone for the Home, Mind, and Body


WE BUILD

HomesCommunity Futures

307.734.0828tetonhabitat.org

Larson shares right away. “The warmer the tone the better—sage green, sienna, brown and yellow tones, and warm white, similar to the trunk of an aspen tree.” When choosing fabrics and textures, “think warm and fuzzy—wool and silk being the best [fabric choices] for throws, rugs, pillows, chairs, and couches.” Create warming sounds and smells with a crackling fireplace or wood stove. And add oils like citrus and cinnamon to a diffuser, or pot of simmering water, to nurture you on a cold day.

“It’s all about balancing the energy in your home and understanding how energy travels,” says Lora Davis, a Driggs real estate agent and certified feng shui consultant. She suggests using full-spectrum light bulbs to add more light in your home, alleviating seasonal depression. And on sunny days, leave the curtains wide open to cleanse the space. Keep energy moving in your home with ceiling fans, pendulum clocks, and fountains. And don’t forget the greenery! An abundance of healthy plants keeps you breathing fresh, oxygenated air.

But it’s not just plants that clean our indoor air space. Take extra care to prevent allergies and illness with a few home maintenance tips. Kurt Mitchell, owner of With The Grain Construction, recommends sealing joints, cracks, and any exposed insulation in your basement to help prevent mold, mildew, and dust from entering your living space. Seal concrete floors with a vapor barrier paint to keep moisture from settling in. And for those gnarly crawl spaces, seal the foundation vents from the outside with rigid insulation board, making sure to remove them in the spring for ample airflow.

An Uncluttered MindImagine a winter season filled with ease and optimal health instead of stress and sickness. Yes, it is possible!

Clutter invites chaos. So when you declutter, you create a physical space that you can truly relax in. The byproduct of this purge also allows your mind to release its overburden, too. Jill Oja-Johnson, a professional organizer in Wilson, suggests throwing a family organizing party. Choose an afternoon, pick a closet, turn on some music and offer up snacks, then have each person find some selections to donate to a charity or gift to the thrift store.

Being a yoga student and teacher, I’ve experienced the immense benefits that yoga and meditation have on the mind. So I sat down with my dear friend Sundari Lucey, owner of Yoga on Little in Driggs and instructor at Akasha Yoga in Jackson, to get her take on cultivating a practice for the winter season. She suggests slowing down your regular practice to allow for longer holds in postures, and adding a few restorative poses to reflect the gradual inward energy of the season. Choose Child’s Pose and a seated forward bend when you feel frazzled and need to calm down.

“A small practice of meditation can keep you healthy, too; even just ten to twenty minutes a day has great benefits,” she offers. Sundari also recommends a daily yogic breathing practice, like Alternate Nostril Breathing, to keep the chest and lungs open and to clear the lymph system of excess mucus that forms when breathing in cold, dry air. To do this, first make a gentle fist closure with your right hand. Use your ring finger to close off the left nostril and inhale through the right nostril. Next, use your thumb to close off the right nostril, releasing the left, and exhale out the


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left nostril. Then inhale through the left, close the left nostril, and exhale right. Inhale through the right and continue alternating for one to two minutes to calm and center the mind.

A Steadfast TempleAs a holistic nutrition and wellness coach, I teach about seasonal foods that best support a healthy body. According to Ayurveda philosophy (and quite contrary to popular belief), winter is the best time to strengthen immunity, as your digestion is the strongest.

In the winter, eat warming foods that are cooked slowly to fight off viruses and illness. Enjoy fall-harvested vegetables like potatoes, yams, onions, squashes, apples, and carrots. These foods strengthen your immune system, and their heartiness helps curb holiday binging. Aid your digestion with warming spices like chili powder, cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, or coriander. Add ginger or garlic to stir-fries, eggs, or soup for antibacterial and antifungal support.

Your immune system lives in your gut, making it important to increase the amount of good bacteria that resides there. Eating fermented foods that are high in beneficial enzymes, B vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, and various strains of probiotics helps you achieve a proper balance. Sauerkraut and kimchi fuel the digestive fire with their inherent probiotics. Or choose other foods like kefir, yogurt, strong aged cheeses, and kombucha. As a weekend project, make your own fermented creations or look for them at Jackson Whole Grocer or Barrels & Bins.

Due to our dry, high-altitude climate, most of us experience dry skin in the winter. Prevent or remedy this issue by engaging in self-massage with sesame oil. Apply a small amount of oil onto your hands before you bathe. Gently massage the oil into your feet and slowly work up your legs. Then apply it to your stomach, chest, arms, and neck. This deeply soothing massage combats dry skin and also familiarizes you with your body, making it easier to recognize anomalies.

Winter is a time to tune into the natural rhythm of the season. So this year, in addition to your daily dose of outdoor activities, incorporate some inward practices, too. Cozy up your space, clear the clutter, eat warming foods, and engage in yoga and meditation to shift your experience from sickness and stress to one of rest, ease, and optimal health. tf

At Teton Family, we are thrilled to include and spotlight illustrator and former Jackson resident Birgitta Sif. Sif has been recognized by Amnesty International UK for her first book, OLIVER, which reminds us that we are all born free and equal with our own thoughts and opinions. Sif’s new book, Frances Dean, unveils a boy’s journey from shyness to full artistic expression. Both books are available on Amazon. Sif currently resides in Sweden with her partner and two young girls.

Note


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Jackson Hole Children’s Museum ......................................................39

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Madison Memorial Hospital ................................................................... 5

MD Nursery & Landscaping, Inc. .......................................................33

National Museum of Wildlife Art ....................................................... 31

Snow King Mountain ...............................................................................39

St. John’s Family Health & Urgent Care .............................. 13, 15, 17

Stone Drug .................................................................................................... 31

Teton County Library ............................................................................... 37

Teton County Parks & Recreation ......................................................23

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Teton Orthopaedics .................................................................................... 6

Teton Science Schools ................................................................................7

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MandatoryRECESS

Whole—

By Christina Shepherd McGuire —

The snowflake in your handReminds me to pay attention.

Your upcycled, linen-wrapped giftSuggests my need to create.

The shortened days with more to doTest my ability to surrender.

The button that fell off,The unfinished conversation, And the milk that spilled on the floorProve each magnificent momentIs part of the bigger whole.

Phot

o: P

aule

tte

Phlip

ot

Check out our blog at

tetonfamilymagazine.com and follow us on Facebook.

FALL 2014—

Issue # 16

GOING WHEAT ... in a gluten-free era

EMOTIONALLY

FOCUSED COUPLES

THERAPY

B.Y.O.B.Home Brewing 101

Issue № 17

WINTER 14/15—

Couture for Men

Practical Mountain—WHAT'STRENDING?

—

MANNERS SCHOOLAppropriate conduct for children of all ages

MAKING SCENTS

Healing with essential oils

THE [NOT SO] MERRY-GO-ROUND OF

Perimenopause

Find seasonal recipes, valuable tips,

and local resources.

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