Fieldstone Magazine - Dec 2012 by Suzanne Gallent

fieldstone December 2012

Cherishing

Holiday Traditions

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‘ Tis The Season To Revel In Family Traditions The thing about family traditions is that the holiday season is chock full of them. Most of them I love. And then there are the ones initiated by some former family member so long ago that no one really remembers who started the tradition or why they did it. My friend was telling me that tomato pudding at Christmas dinner, for instance, was one tradition she couldn’t wait to eliminate when she started her own family. No offense to her Great Aunt Edna, but somewhere along her family tree genetic line, the gene for loving tomato pudding came to an end. No complaints thus far, so there – and new family traditions have been ordained.

One of the family traditions I love the most is the one that involves Eddie, our “Elf on the Shelf.” In fact, I love it so much; I wish I could continue this tradition all year long. For those who don’t know, “Elf on the Shelf” is the greatest invention in the world, and I don’t feel like I’m being grandiose here. Slight creepiness of the ever watchful elf aside, Eddie magically moving around to shelves and other locations up high each night, where my son can’t get to him, reminds him that Eddie the Elf is there to watch for good or bad behavior and to hear gift requests, which he will relay to Santa IF the child is being good. The only question I have is, “Why is this only a one-month miracle?” I could definitely put the elf to work all 12 months.

I love taking my youngest and his friends to see the latest Christmas movie as long as they agree to wear a Santa hat (which was no problem at all, of course!) I just started this tradition last year but plan on keeping it going until I’m not a “cool mom” anymore.

Until that happens, however, there’s another tradition of this magazine that I love doing every month – thanking the many wonderful people who help put Fieldstone together. From our local advertisers to our talented contributors and our dynamite delivery team, Fieldstone wouldn’t be possible without you. And readers, we hope you’ll support those who support us by patronizing the advertisers in this magazine, too. Now THAT would be a new tradition worth starting. As always, if you have an idea for something you’d like to see in Fieldstone, please let us know. Send your comments or suggestions to suzanne@fieldstonemagazine.com. And don’t forget to check us out online at fieldstonemagazine. com. You can also “Like” us on Facebook to stay up-to-date on any information or events that arise between issues. About the Publisher Suzanne Gallent is a native of Chattanooga and a graduate of the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. After an 18-year career as an account executive and project manager for a number of Nashville’s foremost marketing, advertising and public relations firms, she left it all behind to pursue her most challenging and rewarding job yet, full-time motherhood. She has lived happily ever after in Fieldstone Farms for eight years with her husband, Chip, and her two sons.

On the Cover

We have had this cute little Santa for as long as I can remember, first at my parent’s house and then passed on to me, and my photographer brother-in-law just happened to snap a picture of him last year on his visit here for Christmas. Perfect for our “traditions” cover! Photo by David Gallent

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Contents

Credits

‘Tis The Season To Revel In Family Traditions........................ 4

Publisher Suzanne Gallent Suzanne@fieldstonemagazine.com

Holiday Traditions From Around the Neighborhood......6-7 25 Ways to Keep Sane During the Holidays........................... 8 Handcrafted Masterpieces for the Holidays........................... 9 Perfecting the Art of Gift Giving................................................. 9 Tangled Secrets................................................................................10 The Perfect Pour..............................................................................11 Calendar......................................................................................12-13

December Contributors Peter Alderman Scott Fishkind Brian Bachochin Sara Hamill Susan Shifay Cheung Katy Jones Dianne Christian Rhonda Maria Dinoia Alison Wolf Fannie Fieldstone

Kids Klassifieds.................................................................................14

December Cover Photo David Gallent (225) 252-7028 www.GumboGood.com

Around the Neighborhood..................................................14-15 Find True Enjoyment in the Holiday Season.........................16 The Most Wonderful Time of the Year....................................17

Fieldstone Franklin, Tennessee (615) 390-6405 FieldstoneMagazine.com Facebook.com/FieldstoneMagazine

Real Estate Facts..............................................................................18 The Soldier Ride - An Emotional Experience........................19 The Gift of Fitness...........................................................................20 What’s So Funny?............................................................................21 Seen Around Fieldstone Farms..................................................21

Additional copies available at the Fieldstone Clubhouse, The Good Cup, Walgreens & Publix.

The Fieldstone View.......................................................................22 Help Me Rhonda.............................................................................23 b r in g in a d to r ece ive our ‘m ove - in ’ speci al!

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December 2012

Focus on Fieldstone Yuletide tales from your neighbors

Holiday Traditions From Around the Neighborhood One of our holiday traditions is that hurrying Santa Claus leaving his ashy footprints right outside the fireplace, along with reindeer food scattered all over as he grabs a handful of corn and oats to keep the team going. Messy but fun to clean up as we talk about what MUST have happened on Christmas Eve as that jolly old elf delivered the perfect gifts to our kiddos. Traditions are great at the holidays because it bonds the family unit, gives you something unique to look forward to, and invites a shared past that children can pass on to future generations.

Nicole B., The Parks One of our favorite traditions is to let the kids open just one Christmas present on Christmas Eve. We always get them new pajamas and let them open them that evening. They know exactly what’s in the box but are just as excited as when they are opening a secret surprise. They love snuggling up in their new pajamas in anticipation of Christmas morning.

Pat H., Clayborne We celebrate Christmas Eve with a family dinner of ham and all the trimmings then we go to “midnight” Mass as a family.

Christine R., Summer Haven My husband and I buy one Christmas ornament that represents a highlight for our year. We were married at The Hermitage, the home of President Andrew Jackson,

and began the tradition by buying an ornament of the mansion for our first Christmas tree. When we moved to Franklin in 2006, we bought one with a lovely image of the downtown area painted on it. Tree trimming is a walk down memory lane as we reflect on seventeen years of our happiest times.

Nancy O., Fair Oaks When we were young, my mom would hand a rose to each family member and before bedtime on Christmas Eve, we would gather around the nativity. The youngest child at the time would place baby Jesus in his bed. Then individually we would pray a private prayer and wish Jesus a happy birthday. Our roses were given to him one at a time symbolizing our respect, honor and thanks to God for his gift to us. We have carried this tradition on with our own children over the years and though a passing season left us without the sentimental items to don our home, this one tradition remained and brought us security and hope.

Shifay C., Dalton Park Growing up in England, we always had Christmas crackers on the table for the holiday meal. These are cardboard tubes stuffed with paper hats, trinkets and jokes, and wrapped in brightly decorated paper, making them look like oversized candy wrappers. Each cracker is pulled by two people and, like a wishbone, the cracker splits unevenly with a small bang. Whoever gets the larger end gets the goodies inside. My children love

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crackers and we even make our own for the holidays. Fortunately, they’re more widely available in the shops now.

Jennifer O., Walden Glen We enjoy Christmas Eve mass, followed by a big family game of “dirty Santa” and a fabulous traditional meal cooked by my dad.

Paul W., The Parks One of our neighbors in Fieldstone Farms, whose name will be withheld because we don’t want them to get swamped with requests, goes to East Tennessee for Thanksgiving. They mentioned a few years ago that they bring home a “live” Christmas tree. They have brought us one for the past five years too! They even text us a photo for approval. It’s one of many of our family traditions, but this one never happened until we moved to Fieldstone.

Ursula J., Clayborne It has become a tradition for a group of my friends from here in Franklin and my hometown Paducah, KY, to raise money for St. Jude Children’s Hospital, meet in Memphis and run the St. Jude half-marathon. It is always so much fun and for a great cause.

Peter and Pam A., Wexford Our Christmas is all about family and friends. Pam and I simply sit back and take it all in: the grandchildren shredding wrapping paper, the smile on their faces, and the gleam in their eyes. Our children embracing their role as parents and cherishing their families; reflecting back to all the Christmases we had together when the boys were young and the carols, the lights, the Christmas tree, and the especially birth of baby Jesus. We guess everyone has those same traditions, feelings, and emotions. We are very thankful and wish everyone a Merry Christmas.

a hint as to what is in the package. Ralph Lifshitz, for Ralph Lauren sweater (that is his real name) or a gift from Blue Ivy could be the new Jay Z cd, a set of markers may be from Banksy (the graffiti artist). We are as wacky and creative as we can be and the tags become a bit of a competition.

Simonne P., The Parks We have a really nice Christmas Eve dinner; the kids open two presents - new PJ’s, and a Christmas ornament. Afterwards, we all put on our pajamas, grab our hot chocolate and ride around looking at the holiday lights!

Sara H., Belmont Our most treasured Christmas tradition is that we build a Christmas village beneath our tree with houses that my grandfather built by hand over 50 years ago. Along with our many village figurines, there are two animals, a bear and a fox that get hidden in the village. Christmas morning, the kids have to find them first before they can open their gifts. Why the bear and fox? I have no idea! But it’s fun!

Shelley W., Walden Glen Seven years ago I bought a recordable photo album at Hallmark. Every year we enjoy adding a new message about our favorite things that we have done that year. The kids love to hear the messages from the past years and laugh about how they sounded when they were toddlers.

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Rachel N., Summer Haven We recently started doing a Jesse Tree. (It’s similar to an Advent calendar, but includes Bible stories the kids love.) We gather together each December evening to read and discuss the scheduled Bible story – creation, Noah’s ark, King David, etc., ending with Jesus’ birth on the 25th. Then we hang an ornament symbolic of the story. A Jesse Tree booklet is available at www.aholyexperience. com/2011/11/free-jesse-tree-advent-family-devotional.

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Nicole W., Bentley Park For 25 years, my family (Memphis area) and close friends have decorated homemade sugar cookies at Christmas. We have started the same tradition here in Fieldstone Farms with our friends and neighbors. I look forward to many more years of colorful icing and sprinkles!

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Betsy B., Clayborne Instead of writing who the package is from i.e. Mom, Grandma, etc., we make it from a funny name that gives

December 2012

25 Ways to Keep Sane During the Holidays

bar to the adage: “The pen is mightier than the sword.”

by Susan Shifay Cheung - Dalton Park

13. Read a book, even if it’s only a page, and don’t let it be a harrowing sob-in-your-tissue downer of a book. I won’t tell if it’s a bodice-ripping sizzling page turner (hush!)

11. Do something creative with your kids, like making an ornament out of Popsicle sticks or dyed macaroni. Going overboard with glitter glue is positively encouraged. 12. Hug everyone you care about.

Arghh! Before I’ve even had a chance to make a dent in the Thanksgiving leftovers, holiday decorations have exploded in the shops and candy cane lights in the neighborhood. I’m just not feeling the positive spirit of holiday preparations. Rather, the many things I have to do fall into the same category as going to the dentist for a root canal. The trouble is everyone expects me to be in the festive spirit. During the holidays, as I grapple with Seasonal Affective Disorder, I find there’s just too much – too much stimulation, spending and contact with people (or, conversely, not enough contact, if you’re far from loved ones.) Then, there’s the meal planning. You pour over recipe books and try new dishes you hope won’t burn or fall flat when you present them at the dinner table. And don’t pretend you don’t know your holiday cookies, pot luck dishes or sides are being judged at the holiday table, neighborhood cookie exchange, office celebration, or friend’s party. You go into “to do” list frenzy while decking out the halls with boughs of holly and cursing the dud fairy lights from last year. You realize, with cold-sweat panic, you missed someone off the holiday cards or gift lists. “Bah! Humbug!” But, I know you get it! If you feel like I do, I offer you 25 ways to keep sane during this most stressful time. No, it’s not another “to do” list, but fun suggestions to restore your humor. They come from my heart and aren’t in any particular order or priority. 1. Drink your favorite tipple, from low fat eggnog to something far stronger. 2. Eat good chocolate to get that peppy feeling. 3. Cappuccino, Latte, Americano, it’s all good coffee therapy. 4. Dance around the room to several high energy songs. 5. Laugh, often; don’t cry.

15. Give gratitude for 25 days. Quite honestly, it’s great to be alive and be able to celebrate. 16. Exercise when you can, anything from pulling in your tummy while vacuuming to a full fledged boot-camp. 17. Watch your favorite chick flick or action movie with a bowl of popcorn and a cup of hot chocolate in your “Hello Kitty” or “Thomas” pajamas (no one can see you!) 18. Eat your favorite meal, have breakfast for dinner, swap a meal with a friend, or cook something for someone you know would appreciate it. 19. Make some grown-up cookies. I recommend chocolate chip espresso cookies. 20. Go on a date night; it doesn’t have to be anywhere fancy. 21. Have a girlfriend night or girls’ lunch and shop. 22. Make an indulgent wish list of personal gifts. You’ve always wanted that…. But, know that these are only things and not to be surpassed by the love around you. 23. Practice a favorite hobby, like knitting or crackle painting a vase you picked up at a consignment sale. 24. Light a soothing scented candle, close you eyes and drift. 25. Have a hot bath. Remember to hang a sign on the door. “Do not disturb for fear of death!” By all means make yourself a holiday “to do” list, but know it can change and the universe won’t implode if you fall short. Appreciate that while you give your all to others, you shouldn’t forget to give to yourself. You need fuel–not just physical, but mental, emotional and spiritual–to get through. And then you can collapse, put your feet up and let others do the cleaning up. I wish you peace, hope and joy for the holidays and I’ll see you in 2013.

6. Sing loudly (hairbrush is optional.) 7. Seek out friends who can laugh with you. 8. Feed your soul everyday by meditating, praying, practicing yoga, or other forms of deliberate centering. 9. Get your partner to give you a neck rub, foot rub… I won’t go on, as this is a family magazine. 10. Draw a picture of how you feel. Stick people aren’t a

14. Write down how you feel in a holiday mini journal. Be honest about your feelings - the good, bad and ugly.

Susan Shifay Cheung has turned her hand to many forms of writing in her various roles, over the years, as corporate trainer, management consultant, journalist and freelance writer. You can contact her at y2s2cheung@yahoo.com.

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Handcrafted Masterpieces for the Holidays The November My Masterpiece Art Class had everyone especially thrilled because they knew the art project in store would be something they could use themselves or give away as a special gift.

So what did appear before the participant’s wondering eyes? A stockpile of ceramic ornaments just waiting

Perfecting the Art of Gift Giving

by Katy Jones - Summer Haven

to be painted with holiday themes and adorned with a wire hanger and beads. Those in attendance would now have something a little extra special to put ON their tree, as well as under it for someone else, if they wished. In addition, to kick off the holiday shopping season with some great deals, Robyn Helton was on hand with her Stella & Dot accessories. Whether it was jewelry, scarves or wallets, attendees enjoyed perusing and purchasing from a lovely line of finery of which 50% was less than $50. Maybe you’ll be lucky enough to receive something from someone who attended! It was a super fun and stress-free beginning to the busy holiday season. Are you interested in attending the next My Masterpiece Art Class at the Clubhouse on December 12th at 6:30? If so, e-mail Betsy Bergman at betsy91@gmail.com. You can also catch up with what’s going on with the classes at Facebook.com/MyMasterpieceArtClass. Classes are $35 per person and include all the painting materials – you bring your own drinks and snacks.

If you’re looking for the perfect gift this holiday season, or anytime during the year, I’ve found the perfect place in The Perfect Setting. It’s located in the heart of Grassland, right next door to the local coffee shop, The Good Cup. It was opened two and a half years ago by Sheri Gordon, who has also owned Antiques at the Factory for nine years. The Perfect Setting is a gift store that appeals to a wide variety of age groups, from teenagers to senior adults. It carries wedding gifts, baby shower gifts, teacher gifts, Christmas gifts and more. Also available are furnishing decorations – from rugs to lamps, you name it, they’ve got it. Another popular customer draw is the affordable jewelry they offer, ranging from five to 50 dollars, but that’s not all. Tyler Candles, natural life products and other name-brand items can be found at The Perfect Setting, too. “We have layaway and a delivery service available to anyone in need of it,” Sheri says. And there are two other extra amenities that should put this gift store at the top of your must-visit list: monogramming and FREE giftwrapping services! Katy Jones is a senior at FHS, where she is a member of the Rebel Review newspaper staff. She has played softball for the Rebels, and participates in the school’s criminal justice honors courses. She hopes to one day pursue a career as an attorney.

December 2012

Tangled Secrets

Purchasing an experience allows the receiver of your gift to experience something that is one of a kind. Here are some ideas to get you started:

by Alison Wolf - Tenbury Wells

Help Me Santa! Looking for the perfect, thoughtful gift this year? Shopping endlessly for the one who has everything, the one who does everything for everyone else, or that one who always gives the gift that makes you think, “Why didn’t I think of that?” I am here to help.

Personal Services:

I come from a long line of elves and I can assure you that this one bit of advice will not only change the way you look at Christmas shopping, but all gift giving throughout the year.

•

Life is made up of moments, experiences, memories, and sensations… not material things. If we each took a moment to think back on some of the most memorable times of our lives, I am fairly certain that we would all have one thing in common – a uniquely amazing experience. Whether that experience occurred while we were alone, or with our family, a friend, a lover, or vacationing to someplace new, chances are it was seared into your memory because it stimulated your senses,

• •

•

Professional hair services: AlisonWolf. com (the publisher’s favorite choice!) Pedicures/manicures: thenailbartn.com Massage: massageenvy.com (Jeremiah in Cool Springs is my guy) Facial/rejuvenation services: franklinlaser.com Tattoos, etc. for our more adventurous types: lonewolftattoo.com

A Classy, Elegant Meal (fine dining): • • •

Red Pony, Franklin Stoney River, Cool Springs Jasmine Thai, Brentwood

Theater and Show Tickets: • • • •

The Franklin Theatre: franklintheatre.com (“12 Angry Men” was world class!) The Grand Ole Opry: the opry.com Chaffin’s Barn Dinner Theatre: dinnertheatre.com Zanies Comedy Club: nashville.zanies.com

A Day Trip/Adventure: • • • • • • •

your spirit and touched your heart. I am a firm believer of giving experiences rather than material gifts. My oldest son can vouch for this maternal phenomenon of mine. He has been to Australia, climbed a Mayan temple, snorkeled with exotic fish in the sea, and rescued a lobster from a grocery store tank just so that we could release it in the middle of a hurricane. Most recently, I spent his 13th birthday receiving several hematomas from hostile children brandishing paintball guns in order to participate in his birthday adventure. I’ll never forget it, and neither will he; it was actually a lot of fun, and everyone survived. How can you give an experience without the outlandish expense of flying to an exotic island? The answer is easier than you think. Give someone a moment of Zen, adrenaline, adventure or other simple pleasure.

Hot air balloon rides: tnballoon.com Paintball: nashvillepaintball.com Indoor rock climbing: climbnashville.com Cave adventures: cumberlandcaverns.com Haunted Franklin Tour from Franklin on Foot: franklinonfoot.com/ghost.htm Walking downtown Nashville food tour from Music City Bites & Sites: musiccitybitesandsites.com Taxi Ride (round trip) for a night out: musiccitycab. com

Charity Participation: • •

Kiva: Kiva.org Heifer: heifer.org

I wish you and yours a beautiful, peaceful holiday season full of love and wonderful experiences. We all share the joy of being blessed as part of the community that is Fieldstone Farms. Alison Wolf has 24 years of experience in the beauty industry as a master stylist/colorist, salon owner, hair extension artist, teacher and mentor. She is the owner of Alison Wolf & Co. at 1731 Mallory Ln. in Cool Springs. Alison and her husband, Clint, live in Fieldstone Farms with their two sons.

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The Perfect Pour

Johnnie Walker Collection Set – Scotch Whiskey Price: $69.99

It’s the season of giving, and boy do we have some great gift ideas for the thirsty people in your family or circle of friends. In the spirit of eating, drinking and being merry, here are some ideas to help with the “drinking” and “being merry” parts. Prices are approximate and these selections should be available at your local purveyor of fine wines and spirits.

Heavyweight – Cabernet/Red Blend: $10.99 Are you ready to go a round with the Champ? Heavyweight is allowed to be called a cabernet because it has at least 75% of that grape. It’s nice to know the rest, since they don’t have to tell us. Here, the Syrah and Zinfandel add extra power, spice, richness and warmth — punch, if you will — to this surprisingly good cabernet. You also get smooth tannins, very dark burgundy color, and the expected currants/black raspberry/”other dark fruits” flavors. Actually that 14% of Syrah is almost overpowering, to the point where this wine doesn’t taste like a typical Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s more jammy, more fun and, frankly, sweeter.

Louis Martini Sonoma County – Cabernet: $15.99 This 2010 Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon was crafted from several of the county’s most prestigious appellations in the Alexander Valley and the Dry Creek Valley. The Cabernet Sauvignon grapes were blended seamlessly to bring together the unique characteristics of each vineyard, creating a superbly balanced Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine has fresh red plum and blackberry jam aromas and flavors that are supported by caramelized and toasted oak notes. The round, full “mouthfeel” has just enough structure to lead into a fruit-focused finish.

Have a friend or client that enjoys drinking scotch whiskey? Knock them out with a gift that will keep on giving as they climb the ranks of some of the most highly regarded scotches in the world. This gift set includes a 200ml bottle of each Johnnie Walker: Red, Black, Gold and Blue. To put it in perspective, if one were to buy a 750ml of each bottle, it would cost more than $450. And now for something completely different… here are a few rules from Esquire magazine regarding holiday drinking that we thought you might enjoy.

Eggnog tastes 60% better when wearing a holiday sweater. Cornering an assistant in a far corner of the office during the holiday party only works in movies made in the 1950s. A slug of whiskey is not a holiday drink – unless you drop a cinnamon stick in it. During the holidays, you’re not drunk, you’re mulled.

The Show – Malbec: $14.99 You may not intend for your Thanksgiving to be a grand production, but sometimes you find yourself adding yet another leaf to the table (or hauling out the folding chairs and tables) to accommodate last-minute guests, because it’s Christmas and you’re supposed to be grateful. Or can you? When you can’t beat the three-ring circus developing in your dining room, join them by uncorking a bottle of Malbec from The Show. This Malbec from Argentinian grapes is adorned with an equally bold label designed by Hatch Show Print, Nashville’s legendary letterpress shop.

Jack Daniel’s Limited Edition Holiday Select 2012 – Whiskey: $59.99 Handcrafted using a special reserve barrel, and aged and distilled specifically for the holidays, this would make a great gift for any Jack Daniel’s lover. Expect it to be smooth with a warm finish. Middle Tennessee was only allocated roughly 2,500 bottles, so get it while you can, because once it’s gone, it’s gone.

December 2012

Dec. 2012

Fieldstone’s January Issue Deadline Information

Contributor Space Reservation: December 14th – Fieldstone is YOUR community magazine so if you have something positive to offer, please let us know! Contribution space is always free to residents of Fieldstone Farms but space is limited so reserve your space by the 14th. Contributor Submission Deadline: December 17th – Please have your text and pictures in to us by the 17th. New Advertiser Space Reservation: December 14th – If you would like to advertise with Fieldstone next month, please let us know by the 14th. Once again, space is limited but if you need any help with your ad, Fieldstone’s graphics department can do it! Please contact us as early as possible to allow us enough time to get it perfect it for you. Advertiser Artwork Deadline: December 17th – If you wish to submit your own camera-ready artwork, please have it to us by the 17th.

Sunday

Fieldston

Monday

Tuesday

Wedne

New Year’s Eve

All Schools - Winter Break

National Roof-Over-Your-Head Day

National Cookie Day

Fieldston Coffee Fieldstone Clu

Fieldstone Fa Fieldstone C 12:30

Windsor Park Open House 2:00 - 4:00pm

Hanukkah Ends

Fieldstone Farms Book Club Fieldstone Clubhouse 1:30pm

Wright Brother’s Day First flight at Kitty Hawk, NC, 1903

HOA Board Meeting Fieldstone Clubhouse 6pm

Fieldston Coffee Fieldstone Clu

My Masterpie Fieldstone 6:30

Fieldston Coffee Fieldstone Clu

Fieldstone Fa Fieldstone C 12:30

Christmas Eve

National Egg Nog Day

Christmas Day

Fieldston Coffee Fieldstone 9a

All Schools - W

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ne Farms

esday

ne Farms Group ubhouse - 9am

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Pearl Harbor Day

National Pie Day

Local P hone Numbers

Hanukkah Begins

Emergency............................................... 911 Poison Control..............................936-2034 Crisis Intervention........................269-4357 Franklin Police...............................794-2513 Williamson Co. Sheriff.................790-5550 Franklin Fire Dept.........................791-3275 Williamson Medical Center.........435-5000 Animal Control..............................790-5590

arms Bridge Clubhouse 0pm

ne Farms Group ubhouse - 9am

BGA Upper School No School

First Miniature Golf Course Opens 1929

Cub Scout Pack 597 Service Project

ece Art Class Clubhouse 0 pm

ne Farms Group ubhouse - 9am

Games Day

arms Bridge Clubhouse 0pm

ne Farms Group Clubhouse am

Visit the Zoo Day

Williamson County Schools, BGA Middle/ Lower Schools Early Dismissal

National Chocolate Day

First Christmas Lights go on sale in 1882

Bowling Ball Invented 1862

Schools Hunters Bend Elementary...........472-4580 Walnut Grove Elementary...........472-4870 Grassland Middle.........................472-4500 Franklin High.................................472-4450 BGA.................................................794-3501 Columbia State CC.......................790-4400 Williamson Co ALC.......................790-5810 Services Middle TN Electric Service . .......794-1102 Comcast.................................800-266-2278 Direct TV................................866-505-9387 Local Government Franklin City Government...........791-3217 County Clerk.................................790-5712 Franklin Library.............................595-1250 Veteran Affairs.............................790-5623 Miscellaneous The Fieldstone Club.....................790-9124 Senior Services..............................376-0102 Voter Registration........................790-5711 Chamber of Commerce...............794-1225

Winter Break

December 2012

Kid’s Klassifieds

Are you looking for a certified & reliable babysitter?

Do you babysit, mow lawns, wash cars, pet sit, etc. in our neighborhood? Then send us your information and we will post it in our classified section. 18 and younger only please – Thank you!

Meredith Wilken - 521-6449 or mkwilken@hotmail.com 12 years old, honor student, Red Cross Certified, 7th grader at Grassland Middle School! Need a babysitter you can trust? Call Kayla Turner at 866-7921 or 791-9311.

Need care for your pet, but don’t want to pay for boarding? Contact Vaughn Hamill at vaughn.hamill@ gmail.com or 595-7996. Availability:

September-May: Morning and Evening May-August: All day Williamson County School Holidays: All day

Rates: 1-2 visits per day: $10/day; 3-4 visits per day: $12/day. References available upon request. Need help studying to improve grades, ACT/SAT scores, or standardized test performance? Call Caleb Gaddes - 438-6596 or email caleb.gaddes@gmail.com. 18-year-old senior at Franklin High School. AP student with honors.

I am a 16 year old junior at Christ Presbyterian Academy. I live in Wexford and love kids. 4 years experience. Rent–A–Teen - For all your technological issues • • •

Solve tech problems with computers, cell phones, Ipods, TVs, cameras, video players, etc. Answer any and all questions – No question is too simple. Help shop for the ideal product to fit your needs.

Hourly rates - available weekends only. I am a Franklin High School student and have been passionate about technology since I was very young. Ben Bergman: 595-5573 or rentateen42@gmail.com. Call or email for a free quote.

References available upon request. Morgan Polston - Babysitting, Pet Sitting, House Sitting MTSU student available on weekends, local neighbor Contact morganlpolston@gmail.com.

Beginner Guitar Lessons - I am a 15-year-old Fieldstone Farms resident and have been teaching beginner guitar lessons in my home for three years. I have openings for a limited number of new students. $10 per half-hour lesson for ages 10-18. Contact Arin at: brewbeat@comcast.net

Around the Neighborhood.. Wednesdays, 9:00 a.m. - Fieldstone 50+ Coffee Club 50 Plus hosts coffee at the Clubhouse every Wednesday morning at 9:00 a.m. All age groups are welcome. Contact Patricia Hampton at hamdoo1994@att.net. Wednesdays, December 5th & 19th, 12:30 p.m. Fieldstone Bridge Group The group will meet at the Clubhouse from 12:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. Contact Mike Hartland to participate 472-8114. December 11th, 1:30 p.m. – Fieldstone Book Club The club meets the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 1:30 p.m. at the Clubhouse. Contact Shirley Fette at Shirley3799@att.net for more information. Everyone is welcome! December 12th, 6:30 p.m. – My Masterpiece Art Class Class takes place at the Fieldstone Clubhouse. Contact Betsy at betsy91@gmail.com for more information. December 18th, 6:00 p.m. - HOA Board Meeting Join us at the Clubhouse for the monthly meeting.

Calling All Long-Time Residents! Tell us your stories...

We would like to continue our series on the history of Fieldstone Farms. Have you been around for a while? What can you tell us about the development of the neighborhood? What are some of your early-nineties memories of our community? Do you have any photos to share? Please contact Rachel Norris at rachnorris@bellsouth.net. She would love to hear from you.

Congrats Fieldstone Farms Tennis Teams Fieldstone Farms was home to three tennis NALTA teams this fall. Congratulations to “It’s not My Fault” singles team for winning their level. Way to go to all of our Fieldstone Farms’ players - we are so proud of you!

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Fieldstone Cub Scout Pack 597 Update Franklin High School Band Named The Cub and Webelos Scouts of Pack 597 have been busy with various service projects in and around the HOA and working hard on achievements for this year’s rank requirements. The Pack recently removed several downed trees on HOA common property in the Northridge neighbhorhood. In total, the Pack contributed more than 50 hours to cut and remove these downed trees to beautify our common area. The salvaged wood will be used for campfires at future camp outs, so this was a win-win for us all.

In addition to the HOA service project, our Pack contributed three food baskets to the United Way’s Warm Hearts and Full Tummies program this year. At this time of year, it is important for all of us to remember those in need, and we are instilling these values in our scouts.

Our Bear Den (third graders) has been busy working on their water and soil conservation award. The Bear den met recently with City officials to learn about local soil erosion and conservation efforts. We discussed the damage caused by the 2010 flood and the efforts the City has undertaken since then to conserve our local streams. We learned that the speed of flowing water can be harmful to plant and animal life if it flows too fast. In several Franklin streams the City is installing persimmon tree trunks to divert and slow the flow of water. This leads to cleaner water that is a more suitable habitat for animal life. Our streams generally empty into the Harpeth River, and cleaner streams lead to less erosion and cleaner water.

National Semi-Finalist

The Franklin High School Band was named a semi-finalist at the Bands of America Grand National Championship in Indianapolis. Nationwide more than 500 bands competed throughout the fall at the Bands of America

regional competitions. Eighty-seven bands from twentyone states competed in Preliminary Competition at the four day Bands of America Grand National Championship held in Lucas Oil Stadium. In Preliminary Competition Franklin placed 11th claiming a position among the thirty-four bands advancing into the Semi-Final Competition. In Semi-Final Competition Franklin was awarded 2nd Place among all Class AAA bands in this national competition! The 174 member band is the largest marching band within the Williamson County School District and is the first to be named a Grand National Championship Semi-Finalist. The 2012 show was entitled ‘Incantation’ and included dramatic visual effects and eerie music. This year the band also earned the titles of Bands of America Jacksonville Regional Champion and Tennessee State Marching Band Grand Champion, and was named the Tennessee Governor’s Cup recipient. The Franklin Band is under the direction of Mr. David Aydelott. Bands of America was founded in 1975 and held its first Grand National Championship in 1976. Music for All’s Bands of America Grand National Championship, presented by Yamaha, is the nation’s premier high school marching band competition. Over 50,000 spectators were in attendance and twenty-two judges came from around the United States and Canada.

December 2012

Find True Enjoyment in the Holiday Season

by Sara Hamill - Belmont

Somehow, we find ourselves at the end of another year. The holiday season is a lot like childbirth; there is a lot of work with an amazing end result. By summer, we forget all about the agony of the process and can’t wait to do it again. It’s what retailers are counting on by selling us the “magic” of the season. But if we were to confess, it is a time filled with some mixed emotions and maybe a tiny bit of self-induced stress. I have reflected in the past years on how to truly embrace and enjoy this time. The older I get, the less energy I have for the frantic commercial frenzy or complicated family gatherings. What I crave is peace on earth and goodwill towards men. And some hot chocolate with mini marshmallows. There are some ways that we can recalibrate our holiday outlook. The first is to simply take a deep breath and a giant step back from our cultural pressures. The Today’s Show ran a story in November about an employee of a major retailer who protested having to work on Thanksgiving, a day they normally got off to spend with family. Her employer wanted to get a jump on Black Friday by moving it up a day. The push to keep moving up the buying season seems to have no end, and honestly, ruins the natural rhythm and joy of other holidays. Halloween was not even over before the Christmas trees were up in certain stores. It sends a message of urgency and stress when there is none. It encourages us to start spending and keep spending, even if we are going beyond our means; something that will cause us financial remorse down the line. The good news is we do not have to participate in that. Like the retail employee, we can push back on consumerism. We can slow down and rediscover the meaning of giving and the beauty of simplicity. We can start shaving things off the “to do” list. Try getting out only half the home decorations that you normally do. Take a year off from sending Christmas cards (this idea seemed unthinkable to me at one time but is amazingly

liberating). Forget the picture with Santa. Buy only one or two, really intentional gifts for each of your loved ones. Save your money to take a family trip instead. Limit the number of events you attend. Say no to baking cookies for your child’s school party if you know it will send you over the emotional cliff. Just show up and enjoy! Participate in charitable giving like adopting a needy family, giving to a food bank, or volunteering (which there will be time for if you do all of the above!) When it comes to enjoyment of the holidays, who we spend our time with also makes all the difference. In addition to avoiding commercialism, we can avoid any unnecessary drama that will detract from our peace. This is easier said than done. Often, we feel obligated to spend time with everyone. Guilt is a good manipulator around the holidays! But setting some boundaries on where we will go, how many places we will visit, how long we will stay, or what events we host can help. This time of year can bring out the best in people, but it can also stir the pot of family/friend dysfunction. We just have to be aware of our emotional limits and plan accordingly. Whether the holidays hold spiritual meaning for us or not, we can all take the opportunity to push against the cultural grain and regain some deeper meaning to the things we do. All the things we buy, all the obligations, all the food feel empty if we are not actually enjoying some time of real community and rest with each other. We can each challenge ourselves this year to make this a time of joy, not happiness. Happiness is temporary and circumstantial. It’s what we see on commercials when someone gets the gift of a luxury car with a big bow on it. Joy is what we feel when we tap into life’s meaning and purpose; when we connect with each other in a real way and let go of the material things that aren’t necessary or important. This is my hope for each of us this season. Thank you for letting me share a little of myself each month with you this year. Wishing you each a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and Happy New Year! Sara Hamill, a native Nashvillian, has been a Fieldstone Farm resident since 2003. She currently works as Restore Ministries Program Director, coordinating support groups for the Maryland Farms, Christ Church, and Brentwood YMCAs as well as church partners. She can be reached at shamill@ymcamidtn.org.

fieldstonemagazine.com

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

by Brian Bachochin - Tenbury Wells

It’s coming. You can see it in people’s faces. You can feel it in the air. It’s getting closer.

Now, on the same note (albeit in a more minor tone), what do you get the person who has...nothing? Hmm.

Heck, there’s only a handful of shopping days left!

Interestingly, that was the conundrum, in a sense, that God considered in eternity past while deciding on the perfect gift for us. It seems odd for many of us to think of ourselves as having nothing, but from God’s vantage point, every one of us, rich and poor alike lives out so much of our lives lacking the one thing that we truly need, peace with God. And so, “unto us a Child was born; unto us a Son was given” (Isaiah 9:6) to bring glory to God, and peace to men (Luke 2:14). The great Giver gave the perfect Gift, Jesus, wrapped in swaddling clothes, and placed in a manger in Bethlehem a little over 2000 years ago. A Baby; approachable and unintimidating, a wonder to behold, and accessible to all. God’s greatest gift to us was Himself; walking among us, and one day, in the ultimate expression of His love and generosity, saving us from our sin - the one thing that keeps true peace out of reach.

Now that I’ve heard Andy Williams inviting everyone to come and celebrate the most wonderful time of the year, I feel like it’s officially Christmas time - and I love it! I’ve always looked forward to hearing the holiday music begin to trickle onto radio station play lists and echoing through the hallowed halls of Macy’s. Something about the transition from Muzak to Bing Crosby and the Carpenters just makes me all warm and fuzzy. This season, more than any other seems to change things - and people. Between the “Dicken’s of a Christmas” in downtown Franklin, and the carolers on your doorstep, folks appear to be a little cheerier, hot chocolate tastes just a little bit chocolaty-er, even shopping is...well, it’s still a nightmare. But overall, Christmas time does tend to have an uplifting impact on a lot of people. There is something about this time of year, however, that I don’t really look forward to, and it has to do with presents. Not the part about giving them - that’s always fun. It’s exciting to give someone a gift that really hits the spot and sends just the right message. A thoughtful gift can be a wonderful demonstration of how much you care about someone. So, it’s not the actual giving (or receiving) part that’s the problem. It’s the whole figuring-out-what-to-getsomeone-thing. That part can be a real struggle for me. And, of course, there’s always that one person in our lives who has everything. And what DO you get the person who has everything? (It used to be Isotoners, but nowadays, I’m at a loss!) Giving the right gift is a joy, but sometimes finding the right gift can be the one spectre in an otherwise beautiful holiday season.

So, as Jack Frost begins to nip at your nose and the spirit of commercialism mercilessly assaults your pocketbook (sigh...ok, no rants), keep in mind that celebrating His precious Gift to us is what truly makes this the Most Wonderful Time of the Year. Merry Christmas everyone!

Brian Bachochin is Pastor of Calvary Chapel Franklin, which meets Sunday mornings at 10:00am at the Fieldstone Club. Brian, his wife Julie and their daughter Nina have lived in Fieldstone Farms since 2007. You can follow Brian on twitter @brianbachochin, and listen to his verse-by-verse Bible studies on Calvary’s website: www.CalvaryChapelFranklin.com.

December 2012

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The Soldier Ride – An Emotional Experience

by Peter Alderman - Wexford

On November 3, a brisk, Saturday morning, a gentle breeze whispered through the tall pine trees in Fieldstone Farms sending their needles cascading to the ground. American flags lined a path that meandered through the streets of this beautiful, Franklin community. It was a quiet, idyllic setting with residents sporadically occupying portions of the sidewalk and flags waving from their staked positions in lawns with anticipation of this year’s Wounded Warrior “Soldier Ride.” This special gathering of wounded combatants on bicycles of varying types gave this community an opportunity to give thanks to their countrymen who have endured the permanent, harsh realities of war; scars they will live with for the rest of their lives, as will their families. As the military men and women reached out to the grateful well-wishers with high fives, a chorus of humble “thank-yous” from the observers reached back with heart-wrenching love and sincerity. The soldiers rode past with pride and continued on in the distance leaving behind the onlookers with a myriad of emotions swimming in their heads. A Vietnam vet observer watched his colleagues glide further down the road, thus stirring his own memories of conflict. His eyes swelled and a tear trickled down his cheek.

years. The roster of wounded, including those with physical and psychological wounds, explains why the Department of Veterans Affairs is rushing to expand its medical and mental health services for the new generation of veterans. With Veteran’s Day not too far behind us, and a new year of possibilities spreading out before us, let us not forget those who made and continue to make the ultimate sacrifice of putting their lives on the line for our freedom. A multi-award-winning educator of nearly 40 years, Peter Alderman has taught more than 2,000 children during his career. He is currently writing several historically themed children’s books, presenting writing workshops to elementary and middle school students.

We are forever grateful to our men and women in the armed services. And it is with them in mind that we should take note of some sobering statistics. According to a November 7 article from the Huffington Post, “…the number of American battle wounded has passed 50,000, a grim milestone of more than a decade of war and a reminder of the war’s enduring human cost.” Since 2001, when the war in Afghanistan was launched in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks, 5,225 American military personnel have been killed in action in Afghanistan or Iraq. These casualty statistics only begin to suggest the suffering of the injured and of the families of those killed or injured. Because so many of the wounded are in their early 20s, they and their families face a lifetime during which the medical care required may be costly, intense and constant. Amputees, for example, must be fitted for new prosthetics every few

December 2012

The Gift of Fitness

by Scott Fishkind - Clarendon

Regardless of whether you’ve been naughty or you’ve been nice, even Santa and his elves can’t magically make you a new body for Christmas. Search as you might under your brightly lit tree or in the red Christmas stockings hanging by the chimney; it will be to no avail! Even if Jolly Old St. Nick comes through with a one-year gym membership, several months of fitness classes, personal training sessions, workout equipment, or new colorful workout clothes, you’ll still have to put in the sweat equity and commit a certain amount of hours each week.

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A fit, strong body is more resistant to injury.

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Developing a high level of cardiovascular conditioning will increase your energy levels and overall endurance in any activity.

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Acquiring greater flexibility can help one feel more balanced and increase their ability to move with ease and overall physical comfort.

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Exercise aids in stress reduction.

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Fitness can add both years and overall quality to your life.

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Parents who exercise and live a healthier lifestyle help set a positive example that can have an influence on their children for a lifetime.

Fitness is ultimately a gift you have to give to yourself! Some people feel selfish if they take time to exercise when they have so many other responsibilities on their plate. This holds especially true for moms who tend to put the needs of everyone else above their own. But making time for fitness, and therefore your health and well being, is truly one of the greatest gifts you can give to those you love! As I often say, “When the mom is shut down with illness or injury, the whole family is shut down!” When I first started my personal fitness company I wanted to find a name that exemplified the importance of making this UN-selfish time for oneself and that is why I called it “Time4You Fitness.” I wanted folks to know that this was an opportunity for them to put aside all of the other things that pull them in a thousand different directions and make time for themselves. The philosophy is the same whether it is one-on-one, partner, or small group training (such as my boot camp classes); I wanted everyone to feel they had a personal training experience. But it still all starts with the individual carving out that time in their schedule. Fitness is one of those gifts that gives back in so many ways. Here are just some of the benefits it can provide: ▪▪

When people get in shape they tend to carry themselves with more confidence.

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Enhanced strength makes one more functional in everything they do, whether they work away from or in the home.

So this holiday season, give yourself and your loved ones the gift that keeps on giving! Fieldstone Farms Resident Scott Fishkind is a Certified Personal Trainer (ACE) and Certified IMPACT instructor (NESTA) specializing in Fitness Boot Camp Classes and In-Home personal Training. He may be reached at 615804-9396, email: info@time4youfitness.com, or www.time4youfitness.com

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What’s So Funny?

by Fannie Fieldstone

Welcome the first installment of the humor column of the Fieldstone. Feel like laughing? Me too! Allow me to introduce myself. I’m Fannie Fieldstone and I have ADHD. Well, my name isn’t really Fannie Fieldstone, but I do have ADHD. For those of you who aren’t familiar with that term, allow me to elaborate.

Seen Around Fieldstone Farms.. Halloween 2012

Photos by Jennifer St. Jacques

Attention.... Deficit... H-something-something... D… What was I talking about? Oh yeah, Christmas decorations. Man. There are some beautiful ones out there, right? Then there’s my house. I know that I could make my kids sit in the driveway while I feverishly scream at my boyfriend (yes, I have a boyfriend; I’m divorced; I could call him a “manfriend,” but that sounds creepy; “guyfriend” sounds like he’s just my friend, and I tried just calling him things like my “Little Pumpkin Pie,” but all that did was irritate him; so boyfriend it is) things like “NO. Not there! HIGHER. Do I need to do this? Let me on the roof! I am NOT being difficult. I said I want the snowman in the middle by the bricks, my Little Pumpkin Pie! I don’t know! USE A DRILL.” And even though that sounds like great fun, I chose instead to let my children decorate, so essentially it looks like Christmas threw up in my bushes, on my front porch and over my garage. We have deer food in the yard. We have various colored lights in chaotic positions in trees and other landscaping. See that blow-up Santa whose bag is partially deflated? That’s me! Look, that thing cost me $200. I’m not about to get a new one. I tell the kids the bag is deflated because it’s BEFORE Christmas and there aren’t any toys in there yet. And would they like Santa to bring toys to them this year? Then zip it and enjoy the red and white fabulousness that sways gently in the breeze, because I lost one of the pegs to hold it down. And I in my kerchief (what is that?) and Little Pumpkin Pie in his cap stayed up late arguing over how to put the foosball table together that the kids just HAD to have. I looked HARD at the directions for at least 3.6 seconds before I heard a twinkling on the roof (or was it just that my wine glass was empty?), so I ran off to check it (a.k.a. fill up my glass), but forgot why I was there in the first place, and then I saw my laptop and figured I should write this article. Merry (oh, “D” is for disorder) Christmas!

Fannie Fieldstone lives in The Reserve. Or is it Trent Park? Park Trent? Clark Kent? Confused? So is Fannie. Did you know there are 26 subdivisions? I live in Glen Parks Oaks Hall or something. I don’t know. I mean SHE lives there. And SHE doesn’t know. Never mind.

December 2012

The Fieldstone View ?

with Maria Dinoia - Wheaton Hall

The holidays are a lot of work and while it’s a time of joy, it can also be a time of stress and even dread! What do you dread most about the upcoming holiday season?

I don’t dread too much of the holidays. I’m usually more concerned that I won’t get everything done! But if I DREAD anything, it’s taking the tree down when it’s all over! – Grace Murphy

The thing I dread most about the holidays is the increase in traffic. It makes it harder to get home on time! I feel like I’m missing out on family time.

I really dread taking DOWN and putting away the decorations. The putting up is exciting and fun, but I wish I had nothing to do with the clean up afterwards!

– Ralph Ruiz

– Chris Brownfield

Maria Dinoia is a freelance writer who currently writes for Country Weekly magazine and whose word eloquence has appeared in dozens of newspapers, magazines and websites. She happily resides in Fieldstone Farms with her hard-working husband and three adoring children.

Holiday Traditions from Across the World Hanukkah in Israel

Jewish people all over the world observe Hanukkah, but perhaps there is not a more brilliant celebration than in Israel. The focal point of celebration is the menorah, a branched candelabrum, and each night, one candle is lit and gifts are often given to children. St. Lucia Day in Sweden St. Lucia Day honors a third-century saint on Dec. 13, when girls dress up as “Lucia brides” and wear long white gowns and red sashes. The attire is accompanied with a wreath of burning candles on their heads. New Year’s Eve in Ecuador In this South American country, a family dresses up a straw man representing the old year. Family members make a will for the straw man that lists all of their faults. At midnight, they burn the straw man in hopes their own faults disappear, too.

Holiday Haiku: Dread the holidays? Think like a kid. Be amazed. Life’s short, Mr. Grinch. – Mary Maich

Christmas in France In France, Christmas is called Noel. A figure called Pere Noel, father of Christmas, makes home visits with gifts. On Christmas Eve, children leave their shoes by a fireplace that will be filled with the gifts. Omisoka in Japan In Japan, Omisoka, or New Year’s Eve, is the second most important holiday of the year, following New Year’s Day, the start of a new beginning. Japanese families gather for a late dinner around 11 p.m., and at midnight, many make visits to a shrine or temple. Ta Chiu in Hong Kong Those in Hong Kong pray to the gods and ghosts of their ancestors asking that they will fulfill wishes for the next year. Priests read aloud the names of every person living at the celebration and attach a list of names to a paper horse and set it on fire. The smoke carries the names up to the Gods and the living will be remembered.

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Help Me, Rhonda!!! An Advice Column for Fieldstone Farms

Dear Rhonda,

With the holidays coming up, I wanted to share an idea to help others with gift giving ideas! In our family, we have a lot of nieces and nephews that live across the country. It is difficult to send packages and know what they want as they grow up so far away from us. So, last year we decided in lieu of gifts we would donate to a charity that benefits children. I’m wondering if you have any great LOCAL non-profit group suggestions that benefit children. We are going to do the same thing for Christmas this year!

- Far Away Aunt Dear Far Away Aunt,

What a great idea! There are several wonderful local non-profits in the Nashville area. If you Google “local non-profits in Nashville”, you will get lots of information. Each website will list the specifics of each organization. I’ve listed links to three that benefit children specifically. •

Monroe Harding Children’s Home http://www.monroeharding.org/

•

Nashville Children’s Alliance http://nashvilleca.org/

•

Ronald McDonald House Nashville http://www.rmhcnashville.com/

Friday and the overall sense of buy-buy-buy that can sometimes overshadow the joy of the season, the reminder to give selflessly provides a nice cosmic balance in the universe. You should decline the grocer confidently, knowing your heart is full. Enjoy this marvelous time of year!

Dear Rhonda,

My girlfriends and I are getting ready for our annual Christmas cookie exchange. Do you have any favorite cookie recipes?

- ‘ Tis The Season Dear ‘ Tis The Season,

One of my all-time favorite recipes is one of the easiest! Not technically a cookie, it is nonetheless fabulous in every way... we call them Barkies. The recipe is actually called Peanut Butter Crackers and it is located on the back of Almond Bark packaging.

Peanut Butter Crackers Ritz Crackers

Happy Holidays!

Peanut Butter

Dear Rhonda,

Vanilla Flavored Almond Bark

I need to get something off my chest. Why is it that this time of year I feel like I am bombarded with people asking me to donate something? From the check-out stand at the grocery store to foregoing annual giftexchanges in order to donate the money to the cause of the month, it is overwhelming! If I choose not to, I am looked at like I hate children, or hurricane relief, or hunger, etc. Don’t get me wrong, I am all for giving, but I feel this is a private matter. This is a decision that my husband and I make as a family. We choose to have a set amount deducted from each pay check and donated to the charity of our choice. Nobody knows this. We don’t need a paper balloon on the wall at the grocery store to remind us of the good deed we’ve done. I know this sounds harsh in an email, but I just needed to vent... anonymously.

Festive Sprinkles Sandwich two snack crackers together with a generous amount of peanut butter. Press together so peanut butter spreads to the edge. Using tongs, dip crackers into melted Almond Bark. Place on foil or waxed paper and top with sprinkles just before they harden.

Enjoy!

- Scrooge Dear Scrooge,

Got a question? Contact Rhonda at askrhonda@live.com or to submit a question anonymously visit: askrhonda.us.

No doubt, a lot of people share your opinion. You must do what feels right for you and your family. I think between the chaotic insanity that has become Black

December 2012