NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2016
COMPLIMENTARY COPY
Education-Lifestyle Magazine Serving Women in Northern Virginia, Loudoun County and Beyond
What’s a BORSAbag? Ask Owner Diane Piper
Mompreneur Sally G. Crosen Her son, Their Journey and Joyful Living
N E M O W S S E N I S U B ss e c c u S d n a y r to S r i e h T dy Entrepreneurs Share
Loudoun La
VIRGINIA BUSINESS
Women’s Conference - Dec 2, 2016
Happy Anniversary WOMAN!
Happy Holidays from Reston Radiology Consultants
• Through monthly self-examinations and routine Mammograms, women can detect Breast Cancer at onset to greatly improve their chances of survival. • Research and Technological advancements including 3-D Mammo and MRI have played a major role in Breast Imaging. • Schedule all your end of year diagnostic testing needs including Mammograms today!! Reston Radiology Consultants Northern Virginia Locations Include: Fair Oaks Imaging Center 703-385-5203 4001 Fair Ridge Drive Suite 103, Fairfax, Virginia 22033 Loudoun Imaging Center/Ashburn 571-223-0230 20905 Professional Plaza Suite 100, Ashburn, Virginia 20147 MRI of Reston 703-478-0922 1800 Town Center Drive Suite 115, Reston, Virginia 20190 PET of Reston 703-478-0922 1800 Town Center Drive Suite 115, Reston, Virginia 20190 Pink Ribbon Facility (through Hologic)
www.MRIofReston.com
Call today to schedule an appointment at any of our convenient locations in Northern Virginia or request an appointment online at our website
www.RestonRadiology.com
Like us on Facebook @ Reston Radiology Consultants
Photo courtesy by Cyndy Porter Style and Photography
business women of loudoun
Three Northern VA Women Business Owners; Diane Piper (CEO, BORSAbags) with Dorri C. Scott (Publisher & CEO, That Woman Media) and Sally Garcia Crosen (Maid Brigade) spent an afternoon with Photographer/Stylist Cyndy Porter discussing the power and pangs of owning a business. What we learned and know for sure: • Over 40% of the nation’s small businesses are run by women. • If you are a woman business owner it is more than likely that you will wear many hats. • Get help sooner rather than later. It will save time and money, too. • Partnerships are key to your success. Hire slowly. Fire Quickly. • Growing a business is not for the faint at heart. • Be prepared to have some long, lonely nights along the way. • Be willing to work harder than you have ever worked in your life. • Be open, flexible and thrive! • The challenges and opportunities are endless • No matter what – NEVER STOP BELIEVING!
For more information: U.S. Small Business Administration sbsd.virgnia.gov 804.786.6585 www.loudounwomanmagazine.com virginia
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November/December 2016 | VIRGINIA WOMAN MAGAZINE
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CREATE INCUBATE ACCELERATE
COWORKING WWW.EVOLVE.SPACE CALL/TEXT: 703.687.7700
We appreciate your
trust in us!
602 S. KING STREET | 4TH FLOOR | LEESBURG
Maid Brigade
would like to thank the community for voting us the Best Maid Service in Loudoun County. Photo courtesy of Rogue Crayon Media
Happy Veterans Day
2014 2013
Honoring Those and Their Families
God Bless Much Gratitude
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November/December 2016 | VIRGINIA WOMAN MAGAZINE
Servicing Northern VA since 1987
703.722.6243 MaidBrigade.com educate. empower. inspire. inform.
virginia
We’re small business believers.
Business Banking We grew up here, funding the dreams of many local businesses. So if you’re looking for a partner dedicated to helping yours grow, look no further than Sandy Spring Bank. We’re your neighbors—trusted local financial professionals with a personal stake in the communities and people we serve. For more than 140 years we’ve been helping area companies with sound advice, diverse business banking services, quick loan decisions, and a long-standing commitment to measuring our success by the success of our customers. Let’s drive your business forward.
personal | business | wealth management | insurance | mortgage
703.319.9000 • sandyspringbank.com Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender
Table of Contents
november/december 2016 PO BOX 802 | MCLEAN, VA 22101 | WWW.LOUDOUNWOMANMAGAZINE.COM
Publisher / CEO: Dorri C. Scott
publisher’s page 7
Copy and Digital Marketing Chelsea Snyder Editor
Mending Fences - Moving Mountains
Graphic Design: Jelly Graphics Kerry Stavely Kathy Motak Singel
health & wellness
9 SculpSure 10 Double Chin no more with Kybella® 11 HRT – A Science-Based, Safe Treatment 12 What’s Up with Your Cycle?
Photography, Style and Make-up Artistry: Cyndy Porter Ayesha Pough Printing: Bartash Printing - Philadelphia, PA Andre Fitch, Print Specialist Staff: Darnell Wise Lightbourn Community Events Liaison Tendai Phiri Executive Assistant to CEO CB Scott Advisory Council Pat Wirth Guest Columnist Keaira Simpkins Intern
special features 15 19 20 22 24 27
I-Care Shares Caregiver Tips What’s a BORSAbag? A Mother’s Loving Story - Joyful Living Women and Alzheimer’s Disease Everyday Extraordinary! Grace and Gratitude
The WOMAN Magazine Group Loudoun WOMAN Magazine Arlington WOMAN WOMAN Pink Pages www.loudounwomanmagazine.com
To Advertise Contact Us...
education
29 Countdown to FAFSA…New Rules 31 Life’s Meaning – FIVE Areas 32 YES to the Suffragist Memorial 35 Breathe
food & wine 37 38 39
Not THAT Kind of Date Veg it Up For Thanksgiving Holiday Wines and Wonder
The Woman’s Journal newspaper is published bimonthly and is available free of charge, by subscription, display stands in approved private and public establishments and authorized distributors only. Trademark laws and U.S. copyright laws protect The Women’s Journal. No part of this paper may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. The Women’s Journal is not responsible for any editorial comment (other than it’s own), typographical errors from advertisements submitted as camera ready or any reproductions of advertisements submitted as camera ready. If an advertisement does not meet our standards of acceptance, we may revise or cancel it at any time., whether or not it has been already acknowledged and/or previously published. The advertiser assumes sole responsibility for all statements contained in submitted copy and will protect and indemnify The Woman’s Journal its owners, publishers and employees against any and all liability, loss or expense arising out of claims for libel, unfair trade names, patents, copyrights and proprietary rights, and all violations of the right of privacy or other violations resulting from the publications by this newspaper for its advertising copy. Publisher shall be under no liability for failure, for any reason, to insert an advertisement. Publisher shall not be liable for any reason of error, omission and/or failure to insert any part of an advertisement. Publisher will not be liable for delay or failure in performance in publication distribution if all or any portion of an issue is delayed or suspended for any reason. The publisher will exercise reasonable judgement in these instances and will make adjustments for the advertiser where and when appropriate. The Woman’s Journal assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material or reproductions made by advertisers. This newspaper will be published by the 5th day of every other month. Representations by The Women’s Journal, copyright 2011. ™ Publication of advertising contained here does not necessarily constitute endorsement.
COMPLIMENTA NOV
For more WOMAN information visit LoudounWomanMagazine.com
Connect with us!
www.facebook.com/NoVaWomanMag https://twitter.com/DorriStorri www.linkedin.com/in/dorristorri Loudoun Woman Magazine You Tube Channel
P.O. Box 802 | McLean, VA 22101 Phone: (301) 526-8440 publisher@vawoman.com
EMBER EMBER | DEC
Education-Lifes
ON THE COVER
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nd ty and Beyo Loudoun Coun ern Virginia, en in North Serving Wom
Sally G. Crosen Mompreneur , Their Journey Her son
RSAbag? What’s a BO Ask Owner er Diane Pip
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and Joyful Liv
Women Business owners, Diane Piper (left) and Sally Garcia Crosen (right) share stories and success with Publisher Dorri C. Scott. Ms. Crosen won the coveted space as cover of the VA WOMAN. Read her beautiful and compelling story inside.
OMEN W S S E N I BUS Loudoun
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S BUSINES2, 2016 VIRGINIA ference - Dec
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Photo courtesy: Cyndy Porter
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Women’s Con
PO BOX 802 | MCLEAN, VA 22101 | WWW.LOUDOUNWOMANMAGAZINE.COM
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November/December 2016 | VIRGINIA WOMAN MAGAZINE
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virginia
letter
november/december 2016
from the publisher
Photo by: Cyndy Porter Photographer and Style Make up by: Ayesha Pough
I don’t normally look forward to the cold weather and mountains of snow that seem to fall (at least once) each year in our area, but… let’s just say that I cannot be happier to celebrate the end of this political season, even if that means the snow is coming! No matter who your political pick was, we can all finally breathe a sigh of relief that the election is over and turn our attention back toward our families, friends and ourselves again!
This issue of Virginia WOMAN magazine is another milestone in my life – FIVE YEARS of publishing! I’m so honored to share our cover with two amazing Northern VA business women: Thank you, Diane Piper and Sally Garcia Crosen! Finally, thank you Loudoun County, family and friends - near and far.
Let’s make everyone’s lives a little better, put our differences aside and truly enjoy this thoughtful season ahead. Together, While we may not have all agreed on the politics of the last we can move mountains (and I don’t mean just the snow)! few months, perhaps we can move forward with a renewed Happy Holidays and May the New Year be the best and promise to mend those fences and start working together, brightest in all our lives. again. ‘Tis the season to cherish our past and make memories Kindly, Dorri for our futures!
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From first seeing your baby, to first seeing her beautiful eyes At Novant Health UVA Health System, we provide personalized services for new and soon-to-be mothers throughout the pregnancy journey – from the time you find out you are pregnant to after your family has grown. Deliver your baby with Novant Health UVA Health System and you’ll have a full team of our highly skilled physicians and support staff at your side for every step, from prenatal classes for mothers and other family members to breastfeeding support and pediatric care services. Visit our website at NovantHealthUVA.org/maternity to find an ob-gyn near you.
Culpeper Medical Center Culpeper, VA
Haymarket Medical Center Haymarket, VA
Prince William Medical Center Manassas, VA
NovantHealthUVA.org/maternity
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November/December 2016 | VIRGINIA WOMAN MAGAZINE
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Aesthetica Cosmetic Surgery and Laser Center: It’s Time to Love How You Look
a
By Dr. Phillip Chang
s the premiere cosmetic surgery and laser center in Loudoun County, Aesthetica offers proven surgical and non-surgical options for the face, breasts, and body. From facelifts, tummy tucks, and breast augmentations or reductions to BOTOX, facial fillers, and laser treatments, Aesthetica can meet the needs of every client.
If you are contemplating a little revitalization for yourself, contact Aesthetica today to schedule a complimentary appointment. It’s time to love how you look.
Dr. Chang wants all of his patients to look natural and refreshed. He emphasizes the use of non-surgical options like BOTOX and dermal fillers to reduce the appearance of fine lines, and he recommends laser treatments to remove unwanted hair and dark spots. His goal is to deliver results with minimal to no scarring, and as little discomfort and downtime as possible. Aesthetica’s newest offering, SculpSure, is a non-invasive laser treatment that can be used to eliminate fat from those areas of the body that are resistant to dieting and exercise. This body contouring procedure lasts only 25 minutes and has no downtime. Just one treatment can destroy up to 24% of fat cells in a treated area. When patients visit Aesthetica, they know that they are going to be treated to exceptional customer service and superior results. With thousands of satisfied patients from around the globe, Dr. Chang is consistently listed as a top doctor in Northern Virginia.
Dr. Phillip Chang is board certified by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Aesthetica Cosmetic Surgery & Laser Center is located at Riverside Office Park at Lansdowne; 19500 Sandridge Way, Suite 350; Leesburg, Virginia 20176.
Non-Invasive Body Contouring Reduce stubborn fat up to 24% on most body parts
in just 25 minutes. SPECIAL INTRODUCTORY PRICING
$200 OFF
per area or per treatment As f
eatu
Dr. Before
703-729-5553 virginia
educate. empower. inspire. inform.
Experience
red o
Oz
n
After
www.gotobeauty.com November/December 2016 | VIRGINIA WOMAN MAGAZINE
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Introducing Kybella® The First Injectable Treatment for Double Chins By D. Dennis Faludi, M.D., FABOS
w
hat is Kybella®? Kybella® is the only FDA- approved injectable treatment that destroys fat cells under the chin to improve your profile without the need for surgery.
Who is a good candidate for Kybella®? If you feel self-conscious about fat under the chin, also known as submental fullness, you know that the condition can make you look older or heavier than you actually are. In a survey of men and women, 67% said that they were bothered by submental fullness, which can be caused by genetics, weight gain, or aging. If you eat well and exercise, but submental fullness does not go away, you may be a very good candidate for Kybella®.
What are the possible side effects of Kybella®? Kybella® can cause nerve injury in the jaw that can temporarily result in an uneven smile or facial muscle weakness (experienced by 4% of people in clinical studies) or trouble swallowing (experienced by 2% of people in clinical studies). It is important that you week a well-qualified physician to administer Kybella®. The most common side effects occur in the treatment area and include swelling, bruising, pain, numbness, redness, and areas of firmness.
•
How does it work? The active ingredient in Kybella® is synthetic deoxycholic acid. Deoxycholic acid is a naturally occurring molecule in the body that aids in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat. When injected into the fat beneath the chin, Kybella® destroys fat cells, resulting in a noticeable reduction in fullness under the chin. Once destroyed, these cells can no longer store or accumulate fat, so further treatment is not expected once you reach your desired aesthetic goal.
How many Kybella® treatments would I need? Since everyone’s chin profile is different, the number of treatments varies from patient to patient. Your physician will help determine how many treatment sessions you need based on the amount and distribution of your submental fat and your personal goals. Kybella® treatment sessions are given at least 1 month apart; you should not receive more than 6 treatments. Many patients see visible results in 2-4 Kybella® treatments.
Mention this article to receive a 15% discount on your first regularly priced Injectable, Laser, or Micro-Needling Treatment! Call today to schedule your Complimentary Consultation.
•
Aesthetic Medical Center
Dr. Dennis Faludi
8150 Leesburg Pike Suite 820 Tyson’s Corner, VA 22182 P 703.992.7979 F 703.992.7984 info@aestheticmedctr.com www.aestheticmedctr.com
Dr. Faludi has decades of experience in reconstructive and microsurgery, with additional training in advanced facial aesthetic procedures. His expertise in the delicate techniques required for working with small vessels, nerves, soft tissue, and bone flow naturally into Aesthetic Medicine. Dr. Faludi now uses his surgical skills to perform minimally invasive cosmetic treatments, including Botox, dermal fillers, microneedling, Kybella®, and laser therapy for hair removal and a variety of skin and vascular conditions over the face, hands, and body. Dr. Faludi established the Aesthetic Medical Center as a medical practice devoted to providing the highest quality in minimally invasive cosmetic treatments for men and women in the Washington D.C. metro area.
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November/December 2016 | VIRGINIA WOMAN MAGAZINE
703.992.7979 aestheticmedctr.com educate. empower. inspire. inform.
virginia
SottoPelle
®
Hormone Replacement Therapy By Linda E. Coleman, MD Coleman Natural Health & Wellness SottoPelle® is a science-based, safe and effective bioidentical
hormone replacement therapy for men and women. Our method goes beyond just treating symptoms. SottoPelle® restores the hormonal balance it needs for optimum function. Unlike pills, patches, creams and other methods, SottoPelle® uses a unique form of pellet therapy that works around the clock for 3 months or longer. No mess. No hassle. No rollercoaster surging and plummeting of hormone levels. And it is the only hormone replacement therapy that responds when the body needs more. Research shows that testosterone and estrogen play important roles in your overall health. They support cardiovascular health, bone health, brain health, sexual vitality and many other functions. When menopause or andropause occur, hormone production fades. Without sufficient levels of testosterone and/or estradiol, the body’s systems become depleted, out of balance and simply cannot function well. Your body ages and the possibility of agingrelated disease looms. Many men and women feel like they’ve lost something they can’t regain—their quality of life. Today’s trends in medicine focus on the preventive and proactive. Staying healthy into old age depends on many things including lifestyle and genetics. It also makes perfect sense to replenish what the body needs. That’s why we supplement vitamins and minerals. It’s also why we use hormone replacement therapy to restore internal equilibrium. Linda Coleman, M.D. Coleman Primary Care 2 Pidgeon Hill Drive, Suite 400 Sterling, VA 20165 (703) 430-7090
SottoPelle’s unique hormone replacement therapy relies on science, not guesswork. Our pellet therapy incorporates many features that other hormone replacement methods lack, even other pellet therapies.
1 2 3 4
We use the highest quality bioidentical pellet implants for our therapy. We apply a proprietary, web-based application for accurate dosing We employ a unique pellet insertion procedure to ensure a steady, consistent dose. We’ve been doing this a long time. We are experts at what we do.
SottoPelle® bioidentical hormone replacement not only
relieves symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, anxiety, sleep disturbances, lack of sex drive and others, it also reestablishes vitality and well-being. Working in partnership with your body, our hormone replacement therapy recreates healthy balance. This, in turn, provides essential support to your body’s vital organs and systems.
Other Providers: John Coleman, M.D. Haritha Yalamanchilli, M.D. Hope Marshall, ANP Nathan Davidson, FNP
Website: www.colemanprimarycare.com Dr. Coleman graduated from medical school in 1984 and has been in practice for over 25 years. She is interested in a comprehensive care model to care for the “Total Patient.” Other Practices promote Warehouse Medicine... NOT HERE! Dr. Coleman will give you the personal touch. She likes to know about the events in your life that contribute to your health. She has a special interest in Diabetes, Hypertension and Woman’s Health. Dr. Coleman is always trying to think of innovative ways to promote your health and wellness. Dr. Coleman is a proud mother and lives in Loudoun County with her son, who plays football for one of our local schools. In addition, she participates in several volunteer organizations that support the community and is an avid Buckeye Fan. Practice Philosophy – “My goal is to give the best medical care possible. Honest and open communication is paramount. There have been many advances in medical technology and treatment, however, the patient is always a person first. They all have the need and right to be treated with dignity, respect and compassion.”
virginia
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New evening hours added 8:00am - 8:00pm Weekly - Every Thursday To make an evening appointment call the office today 703 430-7090
November/December 2016 | VIRGINIA WOMAN MAGAZINE
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t
What’s Up With Your Cycle? By Dr. Gloria Ivey-Crowe
he average menstrual cycle is 21 - 30 days. What is normal for one may be abnormal for another. When women are asked about the quantity of blood they lose each month, here’s where women differ on what they perceive as normal and regular. Experience teaches as beauty is in the eyes of the beholder, so is what constitutes normal and heavy bleeding. Questions about the normalcy, frequency, duration and quantity of bleeding during the menstrual cycle is crucial information when identifying and determining the cause of menstrual irregularities. Longer, shorter, heavy or scant cycles are considered menstrual irregularities. Most menstrual irregularities do not pose a problem to a woman’s overall health. However, prolonged irregularities may present health problems and need to be identified and corrected as soon as possible. Some solutions require no intervention while others require either a conservative or surgical approach. The average amount of blood loss per cycle is 80cc. Many women experience much more blood loss than this each month on a regular basis. Although this amount of blood may be predictable and occurring with regular frequency, it is abnormal and may pose a serious health problem. Identifying the cause of menstrual irregularities requires a good history, examination, blood work, pelvic sonogram and in some cases an endometrial biopsy or D&C (dlation and currettage). More common causes of menstrual irregularities are hormone imbalance, presence of endocervical/uterine polyps, fibroids, ovarian cysts, endometrial thickening, endometrial thinning or cancer.
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November/December 2016 | VIRGINIA WOMAN MAGAZINE
HORMONAL IMBALANCES Estrogen It is not uncommon for women with more fuller figures to experience menstrual irregularities because of the presence of excess estrogen. Excess estrogen is found in adipose tissue as well from taking of exogenous estrogen from over the counter products. Women with too little or estrogen deficiencies may experience scant or no bleeding at all. Progesterone Progesterone helps regulate the effects of estrogen. Excess progesterone does not affect the cycle and causes breast tenderness, anxiety, depression, bloating and decreased libido. Not enough progesterone is more common and can cause problems with ovulation and therefore fertility. Too little progesterone will cause estrogen to be the more dominant hormone. This dominance of estrogen leads to excessive growing of the lining or endometrium and therefore more tissue to release during the menstrual cycle. This excessive tissue is seen as heavier bleeding, more blood clots and more blood loss. Testosterone Too much testosterone is associated with polycystic ovarian syndrome. The hallmark of this disorder is very irregular cycles, weight gain and excessive body hair. Prolactin Prolactin is the hormone responsible for milk production and lactation. Too little can lead to breastfeeding problems.Too much prolactin increases milk production but also shuts down the menstrual cycle. Excessive prolactin may also be due to pituitary tumors which are usually benign. educate. empower. inspire. inform.
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METABOLIC IMBALANCES Thyroid Women with both underactive (hypothyroidism) and overactive (hyperthyroidism) may experience menstrual irregularities. Therefore maintaining thyroid hormones in balance will help with regulation of the menstrual cycle. Diabetes Women with diabetes may also experience menstrual irregularities. Women may have irregular cycles, heavier periods, delayed onset and early menopause. POLYPS, FIBROIDS, CYSTS 99% of the time, polyps in the cervix or uterus are benign in nature. Their significance is not the same as polyps in the colon. Excessive or overgrowth of the endometrium may result in the creation of a polyp and bleeding abnormalities. Ovarian Cysts The presence of ovarian cysts may lead to menstrual irregularities. Intact ovarian cysts may cause a variety of symptoms to include no symptoms, pain, or no cycles. If the cyst ruptures the amount of bleeding can be scant or excessive. Cysts may require observation only with no treatment, hormonal suppression with birth control pills, or surgical intervention with aspiration or if very large actual removal of the ovary. Fibroids More common causes of excessive bleeding is the presence of solid masses in the uterus referred to as fibroids. Fibroids are smooth muscle tissue that vary in size from mere millimeters to large oversized masses. The location of the fibroids is the main factor that impacts the amount of bleeding. The size of the fibroids impacts the amount of bloating, pain or discomfort a woman may experience. Intramural fibroids are located in the muscle portion of the uterus and have very little effect on the amount of bleeding. Subserosal fibroids are located just beneath the surface of the uterus and also have very little impact on bleeding experienced. Submucosal and intracavitary fibroids
Dr. Gloria Ivey-Crowe
Dr. Gloria Ivey-Crowe received her M.D. degree from Georgetown University School of Medicine and did her residency training in Obstetrics & Gynecology at Georgetown University Hospital. Dr Ivey-Crowe is the owner of Women Physicians of Northern Virginia, an all female medical team, with an office in Reston and Ashburn, VA. Dr. Ivey-Crowe has three children. In her spare time she enjoys needlecraft and reading.
are located within or protrude into the endometrial cavity and have a significant impact on bleeding. Pedunculated fibroids hang off the uterus and don’t affect bleeding. Fibroids may be managed conservatively or surgically. Conservative management includes observation, application of cold or heat, or diminishing blood supply to the uterus (uterine artery embolization). Cold or hot probes can be inserted directly into the fibroid to shrink the fibroid. Surgical removal of fibroids requires a myomectomy. Smaller submucosal fibroids can be destroyed with a hysteroscopic myomectomy or endometrial ablation. Larger fibroids are best removed with either an open or laparoscopic myomectomy. Thickened Endometrium Thickening of the endometrium over time can cause very heavy bleeding where a woman is needing to change her pad or tampon every hour. This amount of excessive bleeding lasting longer than a few hours to days can prove to be a health problem. Rapid loss of a large amount of bleeding over a short period of time or even loss of moderate amounts over a longer period of time may lead to anemia. Anemia from acute or chronic blood loss may lead to fatigue, dizziness, headache, poor blood blow and ultimately excess stress on the heart. Treatment of minor anemia may require iron supplements whereas anemia which is symptomatic may require blood transfusions. Thinning Endometrium Thinning of the endometrium due to less estrogen causes the lining to be fragile and undergo some breakage which may cause irregular bleeding. This less estrogen may be physiologic and due to perimenopause where the amount of hormone produced by the ovaries is diminished or in menopause the production has ceased. Cancer Cervical cancer may present with abnormal bleeding. More commonly heavy bleeding or any abnormal bleeding that occurs after menopause may indicate endometrial cancer. All abnormal bleeding should be investigated with a possible endometrial biopsy. The menstrual cycle and medical history are important components of a woman’s history and may prove to be the important link to solving your medical dilemma. Be sure to alert your healthcare provider to menstrual irregularities; especially any that lead to heavy and prolonged bleeding.
Women Physicians of Northern Virginia 46179 West Lake Drive Suite 350 Sterling, VA 20165
For more information call (703) 834-1071 or visit www.womenphysicians.org virginia
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Make up Artistry By Ayesha Pough
ampdhairandmakeup@gmail.com
A.M.P'D Hair and Makeup LLC
251-404-9184
• • • •
Weddings Bride and Bridal Parties Special Events Consultations for all occasions Call us for 2016 Workshops
Showcasing Showcasing Women-Owned Women-Owned Businesses in Northern Businesses inbeyond Virginia and Northern Virginia Sterling Women provides a new and beyond networking opportunity for
nch. u L d Goo ping. p o g h S orkin w Great t e N ent Excell
business women and men in Northern Virginia and beyond. Each month we invite a successful business woman located in Loudoun County to speak to our audience about her accomplishments.
Upcoming Thursday Luncheons: November 10 December 8 11am-1:30pm The National Conference Center 18980 Upper Belmont Place Leesburg, VA 20176 14
November/December 2016 | VIRGINIA WOMAN MAGAZINE
For more information, please contact Sharon Ragland at 703.478.0500 x511 or sragland@restonlimo.com www.sterlingwomen.org educate. empower. inspire. inform.
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w
5 Great Tips For Alzheimer’s Caregivers By Donna Ivey
hether it is a parent, friend, or loved one, Alzheimer’s disease has affected many of us. As the most common type of Dementia, Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by a person’s gradual loss of memory, ability to problem solve, and reason. Once, only associated with the elderly, there has recently been cases of individuals being diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s as young as 50. Even though the etiology is unknown at this time, many scientists believe that there are genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors that contribute to Alzheimer’s onset. Alzheimer’s disease is very hard for the individual going through the disease, watching and trying to understand what is happening. However, the individual is not the only person who is suffering during this time. Family, friends and loved ones grasp at ways to maintain hope and stability while caring for the person going through the stages of Alzheimer’s disease. While there are some medications that help slow the effects of the disease, it tends to be a progressive disease where individuals forget how to do simple tasks and develop behavior problems. So, the question is… What to do? The best starting place for family and friends is to be informed! Knowing the stages of Alzheimer’s and being aware of how it may affect their loved one will eliminate some surprises in the process. Being informed allows you to prepare for your loved one’s physical, memory and personality changes. We have compiled a list of 5 important tips for family and friends of people dealing with Alzheimer’s disease.
5 great tips for alzheimer’s caregivers
1.
Should Not Be Alone
When your loved one’s memory starts failing, their safety will be compromised. From forgetting to turn off the stove, to leaving doors unlocked, there are many safety concerns your loved one will face. Often, family and friends bring in the help of a home health care company. Home health allows for the individual to remain in a familiar place, their own home. Utilizing a licensed caregiver will give assistance to bathing, dressing, transportation, and medication reminders spending quality time with loved ones.
2.
Pick Up Rugs
Rugs, sharp corners, low seated chairs all become an extra obstacle for people suffering with Alzheimer’s. Rugs often become a tripping hazard or a source of distraction on the floor. Sharp corners need to be covered, consider buying chairs with higher seats (easier to get up from), make sure locks are secure, medications are stored away and even consider taking off locks in inside rooms such as bathrooms to prevent them from locking themselves inside. the bathroom.
3.
Involve Your Loved One In Fun Activities
Just because they have Alzheimer’s disease, doesn’t mean they don’t want to have fun. Try to involve your loved one in their favorite activities, whether it is a game of BINGO, going to the park, playing sports or knitting. Engaging in physical activity stimulates the brain and maintains strength.
4.
Avoid Saying “Don’t You Remember?"
This is one of the hardest things to avoid! Alzheimer’s and other dementias typically have a slow onset, where people have sporadic memory loss. Sometimes they can see they are forgetting, and sometimes they can’t. Saying “Don’t you remember” can frustrate the person with dementia and can often upset them, because they know they can’t recall accurately on demand. Instead try using affirmative phrases like “Yes mom, you already brushed your teeth”, “No dad, we have not eaten dinner yet”. Using simple phrases, in a calm voice can make a world of difference in communicating with your loved one.
5.
Join A Support Group
One of the best things about a support group, is realizing that you are not alone! There are many people going through this same situation and would love to have your input, experience and share what you are going through. You can gain much encouragement and knowledge when you attend one of these meetings. You will leave with confidence, that you will make it through this touch time, because you have seen other people make it through. If looking for a caregiver, consulting, or someone just to talk to about how Alzheimer’s is affecting your loved one, please contact I-CARE Home Health Care.
703-865-5893 info@icareinc.com www.icareabouthealth.net Donna Ivey is the Founder/Administrator of I-CARE, Inc. established in 1993. I-CARE has been providing exceptional home health care services to the Northern VA area for over 23 years. Donna Ivey has over 30 years clinical and administrative health care experience including being a care aid as a college student to being a client care coordinator for a group of neurologists. Tony, Vice President/Director of Operations of I-CARE, has a construction engineer background and directs the added service of providing management to home safety modifications to clients. Both Tony and Donna have had personal dealings with Alzheimer’s in their family. As caregivers, they use their health care experience to provide support and care to their loved ones and family. virginia
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I-CARE Main Services: • Nursing Care • Personal Care Assistance • Sitter/Companionship Care I-CARE Additional Services: • Experienced Consulting • Home Safety Modifications • On-Site Salon & Spa Services
November/December 2016 | VIRGINIA WOMAN MAGAZINE
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Your Doctor and Your Disability By Tracee Lydia Garner
completely understand millions of women who dislike talking about their personal body issues with their healthcare professional. When you have a disability, it can get awkward just to be properly screened by a professional, especially when they don't always have accommodations in the exam room. As a wheelchair user with a neuromuscular disease, I've been through every kind of examination there is. Any illness I have is often complicated by the presence of Muscular Dystrophy and my squeaky wheelchair. As I age, annual screening becomes more and more important for staying healthy and fighting off even more difficult conditions like pneumonia or any other infection. I've worked hard to try to locate and find physicians who are the kind of caring professionals that can accommodate me, but also have a can-do attitude about what I'll need to be able to maneuver about their space. Here are a few tips before your next exam day: Call to speak with the doctor or healthcare provider first. What are you looking for: friendliness, willingness to listen, knowledge about the concerns you will mention? They may tell you that they have other patients that have this or that. That doesn’t mean one type of disability is a welcome sign for all with the same condition but it does mean the professional has some level of experience in that area. Open and honest communication. You would want to be prepped for anything that might seem unusual right? Try to pretend you are in the doctor's shoes. It may take you a little longer to get undressed and ready; tell them that you will need more time. You may be embarrassed about going in the first place. Ask them if you can come at a less busy time, or a little earlier in the morning before they "officially" open.
You will need help. People are willing to assist you but you can't expect when you arrive for everyone to drop what they're doing. It is your right under the Americans with Disabilities Act to ask for assistance from the professionals that work at the facility. But you should be ready to explain how to best assist you. They know a lot about the inside of your body, but they do not mind readers. You have to get assistance and honestly, you should probably bring someone who knows about your disability and your needs, rather than relying on strangers that don’t. I have equipment and sometimes I'll send a picture ahead of time. Many know what it is when they see it but they don’t know what the proper terminology for it, is. Doctors who are busy during the day with numerous patients are likely to talk to you briefly on their lunch break or during the evening hours where they aren’t being rushed to their next appointment. Advances in technology have also made many examinations easier, such as the mammogram. Exam tables that lower and raise, laser technologies and less invasive surgeries help with disability-related issues and also positively affect rehabilitation and recovery. Don't let the fact that you have a disability and may need a little extra help and patience deter you from getting proper treatment for whatever ails you. People are willing to be of service to you but you have to do your research and you also have to be the same things: kind, courteous, and patient.
To your health! October is National Disability Awareness Month. For more information about patient rights, read the U. S.
About Tracee L. Garner Tracee L. Garner works in the health and human service field assisting people with disabilities at a local Loudoun nonprofit organization during by day. She is also an award-winning author of fiction and has published several books; as well as teaching and speaking - giving writing and publishing workshops around the DMV area.
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Department of Health and Human Services’ “Access to
Medical Care for Individuals with Mobility Disabilities.”
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Be Strong, Not Skinny & Discover A Fountain Of Youth In Strength Training By Nicole Ann Gustavson
s modern gals, we do it all these days: career, family, interests and hobbies, social networks, higher personal development, etc. Today, our focus need be on our health, not our “skinny.” Our functional ability and stamina depend on our strength: the more muscular strength we have, the more we can do, and the better we will age (and the more fun we will have doing it). While we have been and continue to be, for a large part, a visually oriented society, we have admittedly exercised predominately for visual affect: to “lose weight” – we have long figured that if we looked good, we'd feel good, and as a corollary, that we were fit and healthy. Wrong. Building muscle is the best way to proactively combat the myriad problems associated with aging, supercharge the metabolism and increase cardiovascular endurance. Indeed, osteoporosis, diabetes, impaired cardiac function, weight gain due to decreasing metabolism and loss of glucose sensitivity, joint pain, loss of balance and injury, etc., can all be traced back to the fact that we lose vital muscle as we age. Logically then, one of the best things you can do to enhance your overall health and fitness now is to build muscle, whilst arresting the natural course of muscle loss that occurs as we age.
High-Intensity, Slow Motion Strength Training at InForm Fitness Recognizing that the top three barriers we face to achieving ideal health and fitness are time, injury (or Risk thereof ), and lack of knowledge, InForm Fitness offers a solution, with a safe, efficient, and sustainable program, implementing a focused technique on specialized equipment. The Simplicity of InForm Fitness is genius – work as intensely as you can, as focused as you can be, but briefly and infrequently. In exchange for a brief – albeit challenging and highly focused – 20 minutes, you can avoid spending hours each week in the gym and instead enjoy your free time to live the life you want. Science based and evidence backed, this workout produces amazing results. InForm Fitness is not an athletic gym, or the typical personal exercise Studio. All sessions are private, one-on-one with a Strength Training Instructor and scheduled by appointment only. InForm Fitness offers revolutionary program for people with demanding schedules, who want optimal results in minimum time. Call (703) 791-1717 or email nicole@informfitness.com to schedule your FREE Consultation in Leesburg or Reston. www.informfitness.com
Rather than exercising to lose weight, our focus should be to gain muscle for optimal movement, energy and protection from injury. Remember that our skeletal muscles serve as the engine, chassis, and shock absorbers of our bodies. What about “Bulking Up”? For women who strength train, bulking up is remote – we simply lack the genetic predisposition and hormonal profiles. But, we will tone up for sure. Well-developed back and shoulder muscles will improve posture, toned arm and leg muscles direct the upper arms and thighs, calve muscles the appearance of the legs (and help prevent the formation of varicose veins), pectoral muscles enhance the lift of the bust, etc. If you are after a younger looking, more vibrant feminine body, you want more muscle. And, added muscle improves our appearance with definition and helps to fight gravity, holding up our desirable body fat in the right places. Nicole Ann Gustavson InForm Fitness, Owner Leesburg and Reston, Virginia 703.791.1717 www.informfitness.com facebook.com/InFormFitnessNoVA Nicole Gustavson is the Owner and Founder of InForm Fitness in Leesburg and Reston, VA. Beyond her graduate work, in which she achieved a Master of Arts Degree in Economics and Business Management earned at the University of St Andrews in Scotland, UK in 2000, Nicole’s qualifications include Certifications from the American Council on Exercise, Power-of-10 Institute, a Degree in Health Coaching from the Institute of Integrative Nutrition, and continues her education with Metagenics First Line Therapy. She lives in Purcellville with her business-partner Husband and twin, elementary-aged daughters.
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You have less than 7 seconds to make a first impression. Learn the science, art and psychology behind your style. From your hair and makeup to the clothes you wear, we have services to help you. The Essence of YOU® Image and Style workshops and consultations are based on Cyndy Porter’s belief that looking your personal best every day is achievable, and one of the easiest ways to build self-confidence. Learning how to create an “intentional image” is the most powerful communication tool you possess.
HOW TO JOIN CYNDY AND START CREATING YOUR INTENTIONAL IMAGE! • JOIN THE FACEBOOK GROUP! Search “Essence of You” on Facebook for daily inspiration and tips from Cyndy.
• ATTEND A SOCIALIZE WITH STYLE EVENT! Sign up online for this free event!
• ATTEND A GROUP WORKSHOP! Register to attend our quarterly workshops.
• BOOK A PRIVATE CONSULTATION! Prefer something more custom fit? Book an individual consultation.
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What The Heck Is A BORSAbag? By Diane E. Piper orsa is Italian for bag. My design — BORSAbag® — is a newly patented, unique, self-storing, water resistant BIG-BAG-in-a-littlebag. So, what’s the difference between a BORSAbag and any other bag?
BORSAbag is one piece, one word. The small pouch is connected to the large protective bag preventing the possibility of losing the pouch. Also, preventing the need to carry a second bag for storing your used, wet, dirty protective bag. While on vacation in Florence, Italy, in 2007, my husband bought me a beautiful leather handbag. The leather was soft, smooth, and simply gorgeous. I wanted something to carry with me so that, if needed, I could protect the fine leather. I wanted something that I could get wet, dirty, or sandy, and still somehow store, even after use, inside my handbag. Nothing was available on the market. I was still working full time when I designed BORSAbag. After many sleepless nights and notes that were poorly scribbled by the light of a flashlight during the night, I came up with my ‘inside out’ design. My design allows you to Get It Wet and Dirty; Store It Clean and Dry®.
water and beverage bottles or cans to protect from condensation. BORSAbag has numerous uses: • Handbag protector in the rain, at a restaurant, in a restroom • Great Travel Companion • Secure to your carry-on. Put your personal items inside and place it by your feet for easy retrieval. Put your personal items inside a BORSAbag before placing in the overhead compartment. While on travel, use BORSAbag for… • Beach bag • Gym bag • Laundry bag • Grocery bag • Cover your golf bag to protect your clubs when caught in the rain. • Great camping bag. BORSAbag weighs 3 oz.; is lightweight, flexible, pliable, and very durable. Made of ripstop nylon, the same material as is used for parachutes and windsails. Several styles of BORSAbag are available. Order online at www.borsabag.com and also at www.amazon.com
To use: pull the large protective bag out of the small pouch and turn the large bag inside out placing the small pouch ‘on the inside’ along with the personal items you want to cover, protect, or conceal. Use the convenient shoulder straps to carry. To store: remove items, turn the large bag inside out, exposing the little pouch. Stuff the large bag inside the clean, dry pouch and safely store in pocket or purse.
BORSAbag is available at a wholesale price for companies to use their own logo for promotional purposes. Questions: 240-345-3693 The Bag For All Seasons; The Bag For All Reasons®
After my design was completed and having made my own crude prototype, I searched for a manufacturer. It was extremely important to me to have BORSAbag made in America. It took me over three years to find a manufacturer who would actually make it in the USA. Proudly, BORSAbag products are made, not only in America, but right here in Virginia. Our newest product is the BORSAbag4BUMBERshoots used to protect a collapsed, wet umbrella allowing it to be stored inside your handbag or pocket. No need to carry that wet umbrella, keep both hands free! This can also be used to cover
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Think INSIDE the √ Box: Organ Donation Saves Lives
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By Sally Garcia Crosen
t the age of 4-1/2, my son, Robert, began to complain about a tummy ache. He would lay down on the sofa and say,“My tummy hurts”. I went through all the normal questions a parent asks and within minutes of complaining of feeling ill, he would get up and go back to playing. I didn’t think much about it. Robert looked fine and was doing his normal 4-year-old thing. This behavior of not feeling well and then resuming his playing went on for a couple of days.
After hours of tests, they sent us home with a gastro specialist phone number that I should call and make an appointment.
The next day I called his pediatrician and made an appointment. The doctor had Robert lay down and he felt around his abdomen, within minutes he said, "I want you to go the hospital right now. I’m going to call ahead and tell them you are on your way." “What?” I asked. The doctor said that Robert's liver was swollen and that I had to go straight to the hospital.
We spent a day at Children’s Hospital with Robert getting worse. The white of his eyes were now yellow; a sign of liver failure. As the hours passed, his liver numbers rose higher. The nurse said that we should watch for signs of him getting worse. When one’s liver fails, your blood will become so thin that it will begin to leak out of your body - from your eyes, your ears, your nose. Part of the liver's function is to keep your blood at a certain consistency. "Keep an eye on him," the nurse said as she walked out of the room.
Our visit with the specialist was the same: a blood test that pointed to liver failure. In the meantime, Robert could not eat because his tummy hurt. The next morning, Robert called me from the top of the stairs. He was laying on the floor of the hallway at the top of the stairs and said: “My legs don’t work anymore; I can’t stand up.” I ran up, carried him into my car and One evening, as my boys were getting ready for bed, my oldest son yelled drove right back to the specialist. I walked into the office with Robert in my for me from their bathroom. “Mom you have to come here and look at hands and said, “Please help me, my son is very ill." The same doctor that Robert's pee, It’s really yellow.” I could not believe my eyes. As we all stood saw him the day before said, “I can’t help him, you need to go to Children's there staring into the toilet, my son asked, “Is it supposed to be that color?” Hospital in Fairfax”.
We were immediately taken to a room where the doctor felt Robert’s abdomen and a nurse drew his blood. I was stunned. I was struck with fear. I asked, "What is going on?” Again, I heard the same words, "His liver is swollen. We are going to take blood and run some tests." Robert's liver count was not at a healthy level. The doctor asked, "Do you think he drank a bottle of liquid Tylenol? How about mushrooms, do you believe he has eaten some mushrooms?" “Liquid Tylenol? Has he eaten mushrooms? No! Why are you asking me these questions? What is happening to my son?” The doctor said that the blood test showed his numbers were much too high. "We are going to wait two hours and take some additional blood to see where his numbers are. Too much Tylenol or eating poisonous mushrooms will make your liver fail." All I heard was, “make your liver fail”.
It must have been routine for the nurse to coach the family on the signs of liver failure, but to my husband and I, her words left us with fear. We looked at each other and said, "the blood will leak out? How is that possible?” We were both exhausted. Robert was hardly awake and we were keeping a vigil by his side. I don’t know how much time had passed but I woke up to find Robert in a puddle of blood that was leaking from his nose. Mark ran yelling to the nurses' station. All I could do was watch in horror the blood pouring out from his nose, like a faucet that had been left open. Again, we heard the same as before,“We can’t help your son here,” followed by, "We are not a liver transplant hospital." Transplant? No one had mentioned a transplant before. I had not connected the dots; I mistakenly thought his numbers would get better and his liver would heal. "We are sending you to Johns Hopkins in Baltimore.” Everything was happening so fast. How does a 4 1/2-year-old go from being a healthy boy to needing a liver transplant in a span of one week? In the early morning hours, an ambulance transported us to Johns Hopkins. Robert was in the final stages of liver failure. A few hours after arriving at the hospital, he was placed on life support and moved to the top of the list for a liver donation. We were offered a liver from California that was HIV positive. With no positive assurance that Robert would survive the day, the doctor suggested we find a family member to donate a portion of their liver. There was not enough time to wait. Mark was a match and was immediately prepped for surgery to remove a partial lobe. The doctors told us that both Mark’s and Robert's livers would regenerate to the size each of them would need. I could not bear waiting for the elevator; I ran from the 4th floor (where Robert was) to the 8th floor (where Mark had been admitted) to check on
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decided to donate their son’s organs, my son would not be alive today. That day, the 8-year-old boy saved seven lives by donating his organs. His liver, his heart, his retinas, his skin, his tissue and countless other small arteries went to other kids that had been waiting for a donation. I had no idea that adults and children die every day waiting for an organ donation. Every day, family members die without checking the organ donation box and every day someone dies while waiting for an organ donation. I want to bring awareness to organ donation and stress how important it is to help save another life this way. My husband was spared and our son lives because that family checked the box.
each of them. Each time I went from Robert’s room to Mark’s room I stopped in the chapel to pray. I was not ready to accept what was happening to Robert. I prayed to give me the strength to continue to run from each room and not to take Robert from us and not to take Mark from me. I finally asked the Lord to give me the strength to accept what was coming. I was making myself crazy, running around trying not to speak to anyone of the many family members that had gathered in the hospital. On my last visit to the chapel, before they would take Mark into surgery, I broke down and cried. I prayed for strength to accept what was coming and to give me peace of mind.
I hope Robert’s story will make you check the box.
As I was kissing Mark goodbye and assuring him that all would be all right, my cell phone rang. Robert’s doctor called to say that they had found a liver donation right in the same hospital that we were in and that they were going with that liver and were going to put Mark on standby in case the liver that was donated had too much trauma.
To sign up to become an organ donor or get involved go to www.organdonor.gov
Robert received a liver from a family that was hit by tragedy when their 8-year-old son was killed in a car accident. If it wasn’t for that family that
Sally Garcia Crosen is the winner of our Cover WOMAN contest! Sally Garcia Crosen was born and raised in California. She attended Cal State Fresno before accepting a job with the Airlines. She began her career with Atlantic Coast Airlines in 1987. Sally worked as a Flight Attendant, was promoted to a Supervisor and transferred to Virginia. Sally worked in the training department teaching flight attendant new hires until they closed their doors in 2006. Her son Robert, became ill the same year she lost her job which allowed her to focus on the health of her family. She nursed Robert back to health after his liver transplant and was ready to start her second career. In 2008 Sally accepted the position of Operations Manager with Maid Brigade. With the health of her son still very new and learning that there can be a health risk associated with traditional house cleaning products, going green was the perfect place for Sally at Maid Brigade. Sally lives in Hamilton and has been married to her husband Mark for 22 years. She has two sons, John (20) and Robert (16). She enjoys entertaining the family, cooking, sewing and canoeing on Virginia Rivers. virginia
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Women and
Alzheimer’s Did You Know?
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ver 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s and as many as 16 million will have the disease in 2050. The cost of caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementias was estimated to total 214 BILLION in 2014 and increasing. Women are at the epicenter of the Alzheimer’s crisis. Almost two-thirds of American seniors living with Alzheimer’s disease are women. Not only are women more likely to suffer from Alzheimer’s, she is more likely to be the caregiver of those with Alzheimer’s. – Sixty-three percent of unpaid caregivers are women. According to the 2014 Alzheimer’s Association Facts and Figures report, a woman’s estimated lifetime risk for developing Alzheimer’s at age 65 is 1 in 6, compared to nearly 1 in 11 for men. Women in their 60s are almost twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s compared to being diagnosed with breast cancer. Adding to women’s Alzheimer’s burden, there are 2.5 times more women than men who provide intensive “on-duty” care 24 hours for someone living with Alzheimer’s disease. Among caregivers who feel isolated, women are much more likely than men to link isolation with feeling depressed (17% of women vs. 2% of men). The strain of caring for someone with Alzheimer’s is also felt in the workplace. Among caregivers who are fully employed while providing caregiving many reduce the work load to part time employment to take care of a loved one. The increased financial burden becomes an additional emotional and financial factor. .
Early Signs Include • Memory changes that disrupt daily life • Challenges in planning or solving problems • Difficulty completing familiar tasks • Confusion with time or place • Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships • New problems with words in speaking and writing • Misplacing things or losing the ability to retract steps • Decreased or poor judgment • Withdrawal from work or social activities • Changes in mood and personality
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All races, ethnicity, and economic status are impacted by the disease. Unfortunately it is estimated, some ten million baby boomers will develop Alzheimer’s. “As individuals age, some changes are expected, but serious memory problems are not a normal part of aging and knowing the difference between what is normal and what is not can be vitally important,” says, Sherry Peterson, CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association Greater Richmond Chapter.“Although there is no cure for the disease and no test to definitively diagnose the disease, it is critical than an individual seeks an early and careful evaluation from a Physician for the loved one early especially if early signs of the disease are detected.” Individuals may experience one or more of the signs to varying degrees. Early diagnosis is important for the individual with the disease and his or her family. The Alzheimer’s Association has chapters in most Northern VA counties including Loudoun, Prince William Arlington and Fairfax. Each provides round-the-clock information and assistance through the Helpline (800-272-3900). Training for family members and care providers including support groups, facilitated by trained volunteers is also available. Monthly oneon-one consultation for individuals with Alzheimer’s and their families and nationally recognized programs to aid in safe and timely are with patients who wander and/or become lost is available as well. “We cannot change your loved one’s diagnosis, but we can provide the support needed to make it easier to manage the disease and plan for the future,” added Peterson. For more information, please visit www.alz.org educate. empower. inspire. inform.
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What's Age Got To Do With It?
s
otherwise known as... Defying Physical Limitations! By Rod Smith taying active in every stage of life is a goal most of us hope to attain. The best way to accomplish healthy longevity is to challenge the fears of an aging body and mind. It is achievable, and it’s good for your health.
There’s no reason for our wellbeing to decline after a certain number of sunrises and sunsets. Nor should our thinking capacity wind-down with each tick of the clock. Remember, time isn’t toxic. By design we all age but our bodies should continue to forever. Below are a few tips to change your outlook and raise your expectations for living a long and healthy life. •
Quit thinking that you grow old and can no longer enjoy a quality life.
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Be heartened by individuals who’ve beaten the mental and physical limitations often associated with old age.
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With aging comes some form of degeneration (Arthritis, Osteoporosis). These can be overcome as well. Push beyond the stiffness and pain. Each day will be a challenge but YOU can beat it.
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Find an activity you enjoy (even exercise) and attack it aggressively.
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Don’t limit the good things you can accomplish.
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Beat the clock by expecting to retain a fit mind and body.
Testimonial I have been working with Rod Smith for five months. He has the commitment and the skill set to meet you where you are and help you realize your fitness goals. He has the right balance of pushing and encouraging to keep you focused and improving. His professional background is a perfect complement. I like the way he focuses on proper alignment and form rather than speed and exhaustion. He is both helping to rehab three old injuries, while improving my stamina and overall tone. Best investment in me I have made in a long time.
Photos by Cyndy Porter
Many of our troubles are exaggerated by our mental attitude of our physical selves, if not entirely cause by them. Let your life be counted by the milestones of achievement and not by the timepiece of years.
FREE Consultation and Lesson / Workout Call for appointment Rod Smith, Personal Trainer www.colemanprimarycare.com 703-430-7090 virginia
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Spoil Yourself Extraordinary your one-day reset
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By Elaine Gibson whole day of taking care of your body, mind, and soul — how wonderful does that sound? Just like what you’ve been needing? Good. You deserve it.
Make sure you hydrate yourself well throughout the day and ditch the electronics as much as possible during your 1-day reset. You’ll be so glad you did. Your 1-day reset is about recharging your batteries, mentally and physically, so choose a day that works well for you and enjoy! MORNING • Hydrating Tea • Breathing Exercises + Quiet Time • Nourishing Breakfast • Cup of Tea + Small Snack
After you get up from your bed, enjoy a warm cup of hot water with fresh lemon. It’s fantastic to start your day with this, as it’s very hydrating and aids in kicking your digestion into gear for the day. Mix 6-8oz of warm water and squeeze in a half of a lemon. You can add in some fresh ginger as well for added benefits. Sip slowly and enjoy.
Elaine Gibson 703-451-6355. www.renewedlivinginc.com Elaine Gibson is a Healthy Lifestyle Designer. Cited as One of the Top 10 Most Inspirational Natural Cancer Survivors by Extreme Health Radio (#4), and is proof that lifestyle matters. Having beaten Stage IV Cancer without traditional protocols, she shares her hard won lessons so that you can lose weight, have more energy and take charge of your life so that you can look and feel great. Once she began making healthy changes she lost 28 pounds and dropped 4-5 sizes. Elaine has been prominently featured in VA Woman Magazine, International Raw Food Day, 12 Days of Raw Christmas, several issues of Integrated Health Magazines, Unscripted Power and Cure 2 Cancer Conference speaker, Take Back Your Health conferences in VA and CA, Holistic Lifestyle Magazine, and part of the important Quest for the Cures documentary series alongside Dr. Brian Clements and Dr. Gabriel Cousens. Most recently, she is a contributing author in a newly released inspirational book “Don’t Waste My Cancer”. Elaine works with high achieving, successful women who are frustrated with low energy and possibly some extra pounds, who truly want to create extraordinary health and an extraordinary life but too busy to figure it out. She helps you take back control of your life so you can look and feel better than ever. Today Elaine is an author, sought after motivational speaker, workshop facilitator, private coach, and a green juicing lovin’ grandmother. More info at www.renewedlivinginc.com. 703-451-6355.
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If you need some guidance, download a free meditation app such as Headspace to guide you through your time. Stay in this space for as long as you need. Nourishing Breakfast Prepare yourself a healthy, nourishing breakfast. This could mean many different things, so choose intuitively what your body is asking you for. Keep it healthy and simple. This could mean a green smoothie, an egg with a side of an avocado, or wilted spinach with veggies.
Start Your Day Upon rising, wake up slowly and mindfully. Lie in bed and feel yourself waking up. Give yourself the time that you normally may not be able to on an ordinary morning.
Enjoy Some Quiet Time Find a comfortable space to have some quiet time before you start your day. Spend some time in meditation, prayer, or doing some breathing exercises. Just be still, relax, and be present.
Mid-Morning Snack and Tea Make sure you are hydrating yourself with fresh water throughout the day. This will flush out built-up toxins and keep you feeling great during your reset. If you feel the need for a pick-me-up or a small snack, enjoy a cup of green tea and a handful or two of your favorite raw nuts. AFTERNOON • Light Lunch • Light Exercise • Snack • Nap Enjoy a Light Healthy Lunch Enjoy a fresh salad with your favorite veggies, olive oil and lemon juice, some marinated veggies wrapped in lettuce leaves, or another of your favorite light, healthy lunches. Take your time eating your meal, enjoying every texture and flavor, chewing each bite thoroughly. Place your fork down between each bite and have a tall glass of fresh water afterward.
Elaine Gibson will be speaking at the VA Business Women's Conference Friday Dec 2, 2016
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If the weather permits, enjoy your lunch outside in the sunshine. Take a Stroll After you enjoy your leisurely lunch, put on your favorite comfortable walking shoes and take a stroll outside in nature. Spend about 20-30 minutes (or more, if your heart desires) outside, enjoying your surroundings and digesting your food. Breathe in the fall air deep into your lungs and be calmed by the nature surrounding you.
Throw some Epsom salts in your bath to help with relieving your stress and detoxifying the body, and if you have some high-quality essential oils, put a few drops in your bath as well! Dinner Time Just like lunch today, choose a healthy, simple dinner to end your day with. A warm veggie soup is my go-to on my reset days. Toss your favorite veggies into some vegetable broth and simmer. Enjoy!
Enjoy Some Downtime When you return from your stroll, do something that relaxes and recharges you. This could mean reading a book under your favorite blanket, taking a nap, or anything else that you may love doing.
Hot Tea and Journaling Wrap up your day by getting cozy with a warm cup of calming tea (chamomile, lavender, hibiscus are some great options) to begin winding down for bed.
Take your time. Enjoy your downtime. Enjoy this time until evening arrives and it’s time to start winding down your day.
Spend a little while journaling whatever comes to mind. This may feel awkward at first, but think of it as a 'brain dump.' You'll be surprised what comes out and how much you can write. End your journaling time by writing down five things you are grateful for.
EVENING • Hot Bath • Healthy Dinner • Hot Tea • Journaling • Quiet Time • Pamper Yourself Pamper yourself before you end your day with either a hot bath at home or if you feel like you need more stress relief than a bath can assist with, schedule a massage for yourself for this evening.
Testimonials
Elaine cares *deeply for her clients, and nurtures the heck out of them!! She took a stand for me when I really needed it, and always made me feel loved in the process. She didn't judge or pressure me, and educated me in areas that I hadn't been exposed to yet. She really showed me what it takes to create an alkaline lifestyle for long term health and wellness, and even taught me how to get my family on board. It was a boutique, customized experience that showed me how to work with my natural tendencies. She's a warrior of love and life, and really shows up. She speaks the truth, and is completely focused on being present. I just feel so safe working with Elaine, and I'm proud to call her a friend and mentor. - Niki
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Rejuvenate and Sleep Crawl in bed with a smile on your face and a book in your hand. Enjoy the rest of your evening and have a great night of sleep! Tomorrow morning, check in with yourself and see how you feel. How often can you do a reset — once a month? Once a week? Begin using this practice regularly in your life learn to Claim Your Extraordinary!
Coaching with Elaine has been the absolute best investment for learning steps to a lifetime of vibrancy and longevity! Elaine has brought all of her knowledge and personal experience to the table when coaching me about simple strategies that are easy to implement, even with my busy schedule! Beginning in a state of overwhelm running a business and a full household, Elaine has helped me breakdown barriers that were keeping me from living the healthy and vibrant life that I knew I have always wanted (and needed). I started having results from our FIRST phone call! Elaine has helped me to switch off the overwhelm mode and turn on a mode of empowerment and energy! Through Elaine’s coaching and my new healthier lifestyle, I feel more radiant, confident and alive. With Gratitude and Love, Michelle
November/December 2016 | VIRGINIA WOMAN MAGAZINE
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2015 In the Bag steering committee members
Join Us!
IN THE BAG VII Silent Auction & Luncheon FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2016
11:00 am - 2:00 pm at the McLean Hilton Hotel 703.748.5828 TICKETS ON SALE NOW AT
INTHEBAGRC.COM Benefitting the American Red Cross in the National Capital Region
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Grace & Gratitude g By Taralyn Kohler
race and gratitude are rooted deeply in Brenda Blisk’s past. She grew up humbly in rural Tennessee on a dairy farm, and her family’s motto was “if we don’t grow it, we don’t eat it.” Chores were a natural part of daily life and your responsibility as being part of a family is a blessing. Being resourceful was taught from your mother’s knee. Repurposing or recycling included sewing and making your own dresses which were often made from the beautiful cotton flour sack of prints. Brenda, the oldest of 6 children, tragically lost her mother at an early age to colon cancer, and her mother died within a year and a half of diagnosis at 52. Brenda found comfort within her church community. The unconditional support she received encouraged self-discovery through prayer, which would shape her values, and unearth her future goals. Her calling to pursue a career, where she could serve other women in their most troubled times was revealed. As result, Brenda was motivated to start her practice, Blisk Financial Group. Brenda says, having now assisted women and their families for over 30 years, the most satisfaction comes from coaching women though the highs and lows of their lives. Brenda Blisk, CFP® CEO of Blisk Financial Group | Senior Vice President of Spire Investment Partners Office: 703-748-5800 ext. 5823 Toll-Free: 800-262-3458 Fax: 703-748-1372 Brenda.Blisk@spireip.com Brenda Blisk is President, and owner of Blisk Financial Group. Brenda’s built a solid record of accomplishments and a reputation for excellence among the Blisk Financial Group clients and colleagues. An investment professional since 1986, Brenda is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER. She employs a comprehensive, client-focused approach to financial planning. Such discipline ensures the recommend programs embrace your goals, time frames and tolerance for market risk.
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Helping them navigate financial hardships like the loss of a spouse or divorce. “During these challenging times,” Brenda explained, “women are vulnerable, emotionally broken, and at risk. Yet, they are being asked, and expected to make some of the most important decisions which will impact them and their children for the rest of their lives.” Brenda’s greatest joy is in seeing her clients enjoy their financial success. She celebrates with her clients as they put their children through college, early retirement and welcome grandchildren into their families. It’s no surprise that Brenda’s philosophy on raising children mirrors her faith- based values. She believes through hardship, God has always had a plan for her. Surviving breast cancer at 32 was a surprise and certainly made me focus on the important things in life. Brenda and her husband, David, had been waiting for some time to adopt as David was in the military. Brenda explained military families at that time tended not to be selected for adoption since they re-located frequently. Laura Marie’s birth mother requested she be placed with a family of Christian faith, and Brenda believe this is why they were chosen. It was a miracle! Brenda also has welcomed into her home two other relatives, teens from broken homes for which she became a role model and second mom. She wanted to show them there is a better way of life and help teach them to make better life choices. Today, Brenda is grateful to have the opportunity to continue to give back to
women who are starting out in their careers, and has made it a priority to incorporate the mentoring of young women into her practice. She cites that these opportunities were absent for women when she first started in business. Brenda is often asked to speak to young women in organizations like the University of Maryland’s Susan Smith School of Business and University of Virginia School of Business. Brenda is also at the circle of women leaders of the American Red Cross - she is a member of the women’s leadership group the Tiffany Circle. She also authored her own fundraiser seven years ago, “In The Bag: Purses for Preparedness” which features a luncheon and designer handbag auction each November. With help from her powerful team of fifty female business owner volunteers, “In The Bag” has raised $750,000 over the past six years which funds vital services benefitting the American Red Cross National Capital Region. Brenda hosts this event graciously with a commanding presence, and it’s no surprise that she was selected by Virginia’s Lawyer’s Weekly as one of the “Most Influential Women of Virginia,” or by Barron’s Magazine as one of the Top Financial Advisors in America. Interviewing Brenda for this story was a gift. I am appreciative and thankful for the experience to be inspired by such an exceptional woman.■ By Taralyn Kohler Taralyn Kohler is a philanthropy strategist who passionately enjoys helping non-profits thrive through revitalization and a little elbow grease. She is currently the Chief Development Officer for Ironheart Foundation where she co-authored “The Stories Project” which give a voice of inspiration of those living with heart disease. Taralyn serves on the Steering Committee of “In The Bag” and is a member of the National Charity League and Young Men’s Service League. She also enjoys freelance, grant, and website content writing as well as non-profit strategic consulting.
November/December 2016 | VIRGINIA WOMAN MAGAZINE
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The BIG Give Join the Giving Circle of HOPE to celebrate our $1 MILLION MILESTONE raised & distributed within our community. Thursday, November 17 6:30 to 9 p.m. Refraction (in Reston Town Center) 11911 Freedom Drive, Suite 850 Reston, VA 20190
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FAFSA Season Already??!! Are You Ready??!!
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By Luanne Lee, CCPRS, Your College Planning Coach
ait a minute. It’s not January, is it? No, its September and no, your eyes aren’t playing tricks on you. We usually contribute a FAFSA article every year for the January issue of Virginia Woman magazine. Why are we so early this year? Although it’s no longer “breaking news,” it was announced in the spring of last year the “New FAFSA” can now be filed starting as early as October 1st of your child’s senior year instead of January 1st as in years past. Are you ready? Why the big change? One reason is to make the process less confusing. Let’s look at what we used to do. You would file an estimated FAFSA in January, filing the final FAFSA several months later after you have filed your taxes, and then waiting several more weeks to sync your FAFSA and your federal tax return with the IRS Data Retrieval tool to then send the FINAL confirmed data the schools wanted…are you dizzy yet?? Starting in October of 2016 you will file the “New FAFSA” with the “Prior/ Prior Year” federal tax return. Which means for the incoming college class of 2017/18 you will file your child’s FAFSA using data from your (hopefully) already filed 2015 federal tax return. You will continue to use the current asset data on the day you file the FAFSA. Side bar, make sure you have a paper trail/statements of your accounts in the event of an audit. Since you are using a prior/prior already filed tax return, there will no longer be a 3-week delay to sync up the IRS and the FAFSA Data Retrieval Tool. You can complete all of this in one sitting and submit the FAFSA to the colleges your child is applying to. Are you ready?
The purpose of all of this is so you can find out sooner rather than later what the college is going to offer for a Financial Aid Award and whether the school will be affordable or not. Reality check: do you really think filing three months earlier is going to make that much of a difference? What you should do is to already know ahead of time what is affordable, or not, what schools will be a good fit, or not, what schools will have the major you need, or not, WAY before you file the FAFSA and WAY before your son or daughter falls in love with a school that won’t be a good fit. That way you won’t waste valuable time, effort and financial resources applying to schools you can’t afford. Another teeny weeny little wrinkle to all of this? Will your child have their list of colleges ready by October 1st? There’s no sense in submitting a FAFSA if you don’t have the schools to submit it to. There’s no sense to submit a FAFSA to schools you aren’t ready to submit applications to since they can’t make you a Financial Aid Award without your application. Are you and your child ready? If you are NOT ready, overwhelmed, frustrated, concerned and stressed out, we understand and are here to help. If you have a college bound senior your clock is ticking. Call us today. Now my biggest problem is what will I write about in January
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About Luanne Lee Luanne Lee is a licensed College Planning Relief® specialist with over 20 years in business and personal financial services. Married to Jim for 40 years, she is a proud mother of two young adults, three grandchildren, 3 dogs and 2 cats and lives in Northern VA.
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Five Areas Of Life’s Meaning part 1 By Kim Lysik Di Santi, CPBA, CPVA hroughout my work in social science, I have noticed that around age 50, there are five areas in our lives that take on new meaning:
• Time • Money • Fulfillment • Impact • Legacy Let’s start with Time. Time is a funny thing: we only get 24 hours in a day. When I was a child, it seemed like I was always W-A-I-T-I-N-G for something more important or exciting than whatever I was doing at that time. As I have reached age 50 and beyond, I understand the value of time a bit more. While I do not have some of the perks that a younger mother offers to her children, my son benefits from my understanding of the value of time and how I spend it.
• Do you know how much money that you need and do you have a plan to get there? • Are there any new financial opportunities you can examine and evaluate?
“Time is more value than money. You can get more money, but you cannot get more time.” - Jim Rohn
As people get clearer about the value of their time, they become more selective about how they spend it. That can include questions such as: • Do I like how I am spending my time? • Do I say no if I don't want to do something? Why or why not? • Am I joyful for at least a little bit each day, or do I feel constant drudgery? • If I regret squandering my time, how can I avoid feeling that again? Money, cash or items that are of value. Most of us believe that when we work hard, we will be rewarded financially. Most of us seek to accumulate money for its use; either for something that we would enjoy or to feel secure that we have a certain amount of money in reserve. So what changes about how we view money as we age? Anecdotally, I see that people appreciate the value of money and become more clear about what they are giving up to either earn or spend it. Some questions to ask regarding money:
Volunteering, your day job, time with your family, hobbies? Fulfillment can come from work, hobbies, people, projects, or charity work. Look at what you do that brings you fulfillment:
Come to my session
Know Your Style For Success • When I do (_________) time seems to move more quickly.
• Do you feel that you are paid fairly for what you do for work? • Do you have a will?
Fulfillment: what is fulfilling to you?
• When I finish (__________) I feel really good.
• What activity do you do, that when you see the finished product, do you feel fulfilled?
• Fast-paced • Interactive • When I help someone to (_______________), I feel more fulfilled. 7 201 /Feb n • Leave with your personal a Kim Lysikown Di Santi, CPBA, CPVA, success style J e the t 2! Founder & Executive Coach, Total Strategy 703.834.7975 or kim@total-strategy.net
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Missed the conference? No problem! Contact me for Kim Lysik Di Santi started her own business after spending 19 years in your complementary Personal Success Style
sales and marketing. In 2002, Ms. Lysik Di Santi won a prestigious Small Business Award from the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce for Best Home Based Business. In 2010, she received the President’s Award from NAWBO (National Kim Lysik Di Santi, CPBA, Association of Women Business Owners),CPVA Greater DC Chapter. In 2015, she was acknowledged by Virginia Lawyer’s Weekly as one of the 40 Influential Women of Virginia. In 2015 and 2016, kim@total-strategy.net she was recognized as part of Women 100 by the Loudoun Business Journal.
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November/December 2016 | VIRGINIA WOMAN MAGAZINE
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Why We Need A Suffragist Memorial
imply put, American girls have been deliberately deprived of female role models for centuries. In 1980 it was determined that less than 3% of all content in classroom history books was about women; today it’s only about 5%. On many different levels, it’s damaging to one’s development to grow up without myriad role models and images in school that reflect you in your required reading material! The Turning Point Suffragist Memorial Association is focused on education and remaining vigilant in the continual quest for liberty, freedom and equal rights. Recently I have been spending time at the Library of Congress Manuscript Room doing suffragist-related research among the papers of the National Woman’s Party with our association’s esteemed historian, Edith Mayo. Each visit has been like Christmas morning as we discovered document after document written by the stalwarts and financiers of the suffragist movement – Susan B. Anthony, Alice Paul, Phoebe Hearst, Alva Belmont - and dozens and dozens of other less known activists. It was thrilling to hold in my hands original documents that had once been created and touched by these icons. One unexpected document popped up that was both sobering and irritating, a copy of a typewritten note sent to Mrs. Lillie Devereux Blake, Republican State Committee – Fifth Avenue Hotel, New York City, dated December 12th, 1898 – twenty-two years prior to suffrage, 118 years ago from today. It read: “Dear Madam: - I believe in Women’s Suffrage, as you know, but I believe a good deal more in equal pay for equal work for women. I do not know whether we could get Woman’s Suffrage. I donot think it would accomplish nearly as much as you believe, and I would much rather provide for something we could get, and which would certainly do good. Very truly yours, Theodore Roosevelt” Here we are more than a century later and pay inequity still exists. Roosevelt served as President from 1901-1909, but never publically supported either suffrage or equal pay during his term in office. He did not change his mind with regard to suffrage until 1912 when he again ran for President under the Bull Moose Party. When will these injustices end? The centennial anniversary of the passage of the 19th Amendment will be here in 2020, yet history’s relentless march forward swallowed many suffrage events and names. Eleanor Clift said it succinctly, “They engineered the greatest expansion of democracy on a single day the world had ever seen, and yet suffrage faded from public memory almost as soon as it happened. The leaders built no monuments to themselves, and too many of their names have been lost to history.” What happened to the suffragists in the Occoquan Workhouse in Lorton prison is a story still waiting to be told. Few know that in 1917 suffragists were arrested, dragged to court, then thrown into prison for silently
picketing the White House for the right to vote. There they were beaten, forced to work, slept in rat-infested cells on bug-ridden mattresses and fed food crawling with maggots. Nineteen education stations within the memorial will recount the 72-year history (1848-1920) of the suffrage movement with a focus on those harshly imprisoned on the historic premises. Fewer than eight percent of public outdoor venues across our country memorialize women. Yet unlike other heroes in the struggle for freedom, no national monument befitting the suffragists’ extraordinary contribution to our history has been established. No single place has been dedicated to remind us of their role or to inspire us to the same commitment to civic participation. The memorial will restore a critical part of history about American women omitted from our history books. The memorial will commemorate the two million women from every state, creed, race and nationality who fought to win ratification of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution – the right for all American women to vote. Without this right of citizenship, women would not have been able to advance in education, employment, wealth, civil rights, business ownership, participation in the military or parental rights. Suffragist Carrie Chapman Catt said, “Everybody counts in applying democracy. And there will never be a true democracy until every responsible and law-abiding adult in it, without regard to race, sex, color or creed has his or her own inalienable and unpurchaseable voice in government.” Using the suffragists as role models, the Turning Point Institute will pass on the skills and characteristics these women successfully employed by offering a range of ongoing programs. Interactive presentations, webinars, camps and mentoring will center on training youth in leadership, public speaking, political candidacy, social awareness and responsibility, civil rights, fiscal acumen, and equal rights as they apply to present and future generations. Our programs are intended to serve as turning points in the lives of our scholars and empower them with the confidence they need to become leaders and advocates for social justice. You can help build the memorial in numerous ways. Contributions can be made on-line via our website, www.suffragistmemorial.org. Hold a fundraising event among your friends, neighbors, co-workers, etc. We can provide programs, videos, literature and entertainment. We are establishing a National Board and are seeking individuals from every state to serve. Introductions to media outlets or individuals who may be interested in our project would be appreciated. Contact Executive Director, Pat Wirth, for additional information, pwirth@suffragistmemorial.org, 703-201-3171. !
!
By Patricia D. Wirth, Executive Director Turning Point Suffragist Memorial
Consider gifting a tax deductible donation to your women friends
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November/December 2016 | VIRGINIA WOMAN MAGAZINE
33
Happy Holidays and a Prosperous 2017
Peace is wished to you and yours throughout the season and next year.
Congratulations Val on your new partnership! We wish you the best!
Valerie P. Kaiser, CFPÂŽ
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www.EldenStreetFinancial.com Val & her new partner, Tony Fulkerson
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November/December 2016 | VIRGINIA WOMAN MAGAZINE
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Holiday Stress? Give Yourself Some Breathing Room!
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By Chelsea Snyder
here’s nothing like the holiday season to make us remember why we don’t gather together with friends and family regularly. We miss them, of course, and cherish the time we spend together (mostly), but we also have such additional stress that it can be hard to think of the holiday season as our happy place.
•
Take one deep breath and release as slowly as you like.
•
Begin to breathe in your own rhythm again.
•
Rejoin the celebration with a clearer mind and purpose.
•
Repeat this exercise as needed.
Maybe we’ve heard it too much that it lost its meaning, but sometimes the easiest and most simple solution to less stress is to simply breathe. Inhale. Exhale. Easy peasy, right?
Breathing may come naturally, but we don’t naturally turn to breathing during those times when it can be an extra help in our lives. The holidays are upon us, and with that comes all of the good times and stressful adventures we’ve grown to love… or at least tolerate. Have a happy holiday season and remember to take time out for you, your body, mind and spirit!
No, not so much. Most of us are so used to holding our breath when life gets stressful or hectic, even allowing ourselves that time to breathe can seem like a bigger stress. When we have work to do at the office, at home, meals to prepare (or just to show up to), children, nieces, nephews or our pets to take care of, we’re the last ones who get holiday cheer! On top of that, many of us have truly forgotten HOW to breathe. The automatic breath function is there, but we aren’t using the rhythmic process of breathing to soothe our body, mind and spirit. This year, just maybe, we should all give ourselves some breathing room; a special little gift of sanity and health, if you will. When holiday stress gets to be too much to bear, take a five-minute break, walk away and breathe.
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Start off by breathing as you are in that moment (softly, slowly or even shallow or heavy breaths). Notice how you’re feeling.
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Begin to inhale purposefully, feeling the air enter into your lungs.
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Exhale purposefully, feeling the air release.
•
Repeat that cycle a few times, noticing how you are beginning to feel.
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Then, take a deep breath and feel it completely fill your abdomen. Hold it in to a count of two.
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Release that deep breath completely and pause your inhale for two counts.
Chelsea Snyder, Owner, MojoWriting, LLC
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Repeat the inhale-pause-exhale-pause cycle a few times. Note how you feel.
Chelsea Snyder Mojowriting, LLC www.mojowriting.com Chelsea is a lifelong student of intuitive and other healing modalities, including color and music therapy, chakra healing, drumming and reiki. As a writer and digital marketing strategist, Chelsea creates a creative, authentic groove for businesses through coaching, consultation, creative and technical services. She provides social media and copyediting services for VA WOMAN Magazine and is currently training to be a yoga teacher. virginia
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Sweetness
Foodie Alert: DateME Boutique Date Paste!
Batterjee Chantel’sBy Huda Bakery & Pastries
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F
has dates over 30 years experience or centuries in theChantel’s Middle East have been considered a designing wedding cakes, fine and major source of nutrition and aelegant life sustaining fruit. Minerals pastriesand desserts. We are committed nutrients are found in the date fruit, and when consumed daily to providing thesix best in cakes can benefit the body tremendously. Eating to quality seven dates a day is and pastries with a reputation of quality said to contain all a person needs to improve his or her health. Dates customer that pregnant is surpassed. are particularly good for women, andservice specifically women for their ability to provide many of the benefits a pregnant woman needs. Some of the Stanley top benefits are as follows: Dennis • • • • •
We proudly serve and bake
The high fiber content can help heal the digestive tract High content of minerals can improve blood circulation Reduce the risk of stroke Dates are known to help cure anemia with your sweetness in mind forbooster all occasions High fructose content is a natural energy and eliminates low blood sugar levels The naturally available vitamins help protect the nervous system Water soluble fibers in dates can help in lowering cholesterol Dates assist in reduced bleeding in postpartum women Dates are known to help reduce the effect of intoxication
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These benefits are mainly due to the high content of minerals and vitamins; combined with a fiber, carbohydrates and protein. They also have non-traceable amounts of fat, making them a low fat snack. 6 Specific minerals found in dates include: Potassium, Magnesium, Iron, Copper, Manganese
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November/December 2016 | VIRGINIA WOMAN MAGAZINE
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Vegetable Incredible
Thanksgiving Dressing
This dressing is the perfect dish for Thanksgiving or any holiday where poultry may not be on your personal menu. Traditional turkey lovers, vegetarians and vegans alike can all enjoy the familiar tastes of the holiday season without missing the chicken broth that is normally used.
• 2 sticks salted butter • 3 tablespoons fresh, chopped sage • 2 tablespoons fresh, chopped rosemary • 3 tablespoons fresh, chopped thyme • 6 cloves garlic, chopped • 2 large onions, chopped • 3 stalks celery finely chopped • 4 carrots, finely chopped • 4 cups chopped broccoli • 8 oz. fresh mushrooms • 32 oz. vegetable broth • 4 loaves country style bread (white and/or wheat)
• Salt and pepper
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1. The night before, toast the bread and let it sit overnight (you want the bread toasty and stale). Preheat oven to 350ºF. Melt butter in a large saute pan over medium heat. When the butter is melted add sage, rosemary, thyme, garlic, onion, celery and carrots. When the onions become translucent, add the broccoli, mushrooms and salt and pepper. 2. Continue to saute until mushrooms begin sweating. Add ½ of vegetable broth to saute mix, turn off heat and set aside. 3. Tear toast into cubes (1/2”), place in a large bowl (or two). Pour broth/veggie mix over bread and mash together, adding reserved broth as needed for moist consistency. 4. Mix well and place into 11” x 14” casserole dish, cover with foil and bake at 350ºF for 45 minutes. Remove foil and continue to bake for 15 minutes longer or until top is golden brown.
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November/December 2016 | VIRGINIA WOMAN MAGAZINE
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HOLIDAY COCKTAILS
That are Worth the Effort BY ADAM KLINE, FOOD AND WINE CONSULTANT
From traditional to trendy, “tis the season” for all things hot and delicious. Master these favorites and you will become a hit during the holidays. WHITE CHRISTMAS
HOMEMADE EGGNOG
CANDY CANE MARTINI
Are you dreaming of a white Christmas? No Problem. This creamy White Christmas cocktail will start your holiday of with a nice frothy mint kiss. Just combine all of the ingredients below in your shaker over ice and strain into a chilled martini glass. Sprinkle some crushed candy cane on top for a tasty garnish.
While store-bought eggnog will work if you are short on time, this homemade eggnog is a treat you will not be disappointed by.
How sweet it is. This martini just screams everything about the holiday. It is perfect for dessert while sitting around the fire and tree with family. Very simple to make. Just combine the ingredients below and top with a dollop of whipped cream
Ingredients: • 1.5 oz vodka • 1/2 oz. white creme de cocoa • 1/2 oz white creme de menthe • 1 oz half and half
BOURBON WITH A SPLASH OF GINGER ALE Anyone who knows me, knows that this is my favorite drink for any season. It just works so well with everything. Ingredients: • 4 oz. Any Bourbon • 1/2 oz. ginger ale Directions Fill rocks glass with ice, Pour in Bourbon of choice, top with ginger ale, Stir once and enjoy.
Ingredients: (Yield:6cups) • 4 egg yolks, 4 egg whites (separated) • 1/3 cup sugar, plus 1 tablespoon • 1 pint whole milk • 1 cup heavy cream • 1 1/4 oz bourbon • 1 1/4 oz dark rum • 1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
Ingredients: • 2 oz vanilla vodka • 1/2 oz Peppermint Schnapps • 1/2 oz Godiva White Chocolate liqueur • Dollop of whipped cream
Directions: In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat together the egg yolks and 1/3 cup sugar until the yolks lighten in color and the sugar is completely dissolved. Add the milk, cream, bourbon, rum and nutmeg and stir to combine Place the egg whites in the bowl of the stand mixer and beat to soft peaks. With the mixer still running gradually add the 1 tablespoon of sugar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the mixture. Chill, serve and enjoy.
SWEET POTATO PIE MARTINI
heat (barely bubbling in the middle) for 20-25 minutes until applesauce like consistency is reached. Cool to room temperature before using.
This one will take a little more effort. It’s worth it. Reduction ingredients: 1 medium sweet potato 2.5 cups water ½ cups sugar ½ tsp Nutmeg ½ tsp Cinnamon 2 cinnamon sticks Directions: Cut up sweet potato and place in saucepan. cover with water and bring to a boil over high heat then reduce to medium and cook 12-15 minutes, or until potato can be MCWomensJournal.com
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Drink Ingredients: 2oz Spiced Rum 1oz sweet potato reduction 0.5oz half and half Graham cracker crumbs and caramel to garnish pierced with a fork. Transfer to blender and puree. Return puree to saucepan with spices and sticks, add remaining cup of water and cook over med-med low
Combine all ingredients; shake with ice and strain into martini glass. Garnish with graham cracker crumbs and caramel. December 2015/January 2016
November/December 2016 | VIRGINIA WOMAN MAGAZINE
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