The Woman Today Oct/Nov 2021

WOMAN today the

Carrie Straabe advises:

‘Forgive yourself’ after miscarriage

• Diabetes: Choosing to thrive

• What does a dental therapist do?

• First-hand advice from a breast cancer survivor

• Try our favorite flavors of autumn

PROFILES

6 Carol Marsh

Reflects on a 44-year health care career.

8 Laurie Orbeck

Overcoming breast cancer

FEATURES

14 Work-Life Balance: Local wellness experts offer tips

18 Dental therapy fills a need in rural areas

22 Fall centerpiece ideas for every budget and style

26 Raising Awareness: How to live when your baby doesn't

30 World Diabetes Day: November 14

ENTERTAINMENT/ARTS

34 Arts and Events Calendar HEALTH/MEDICINE

38 Essentia Duluth woman finds a new outlook

42 St. Luke’s Receiving the gift of sight FASHION

40 Fashions by Sam FOOD/NUTRITION

52 Holiday Eats

HOME TOUCHES

44 Modern Farmhouse

WOMAN the today

GROUP PUBLISHER

Neal Ronquist

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Rick Lubbers

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Megan Keller

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Ali Carlson

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Renae Ronquist

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

Julie Schulz

CONTRIBUTORS

Andrea Busche

Angela Palmquist

Ani Othman

Carol Marsh

Carrie Straabe

Comstock Creative

Debbie Merrick

Kat Warner

TO OUR READERS

Hello, readers!

There is a fresh crispness to the air, morning dew on the grass, and leaves turning to my favorite colors of the year.

Fall, by far, is my favorite season.

Why can’t it last longer?

When the temperatures changed from smoldering 90 to 60 in a blink, I immediately got into sweater weather mode. Fashion’s By Sam visited The Wildflower Boutique in Superior, Wisconsin for this issue. Tiffany Simons, owner of The Wildflower Boutique, has a quaint, delightful shop with some beautiful and fashionable items to freshen your fall wardrobe.

Katie Quade

Laurie Orbeck

Lori Baird

Maria Emanuel

Martina Mellang

Molly Milroy

Molly Ovenden

Samantha Roffers

TO:

magazines@duluthnews.com

The Woman Today is published by Duluth News Tribune.

Mailed copies available for $32 per year (eight issues). Send check to The Woman Today®, 424 West First Street, Duluth, MN 55802

With autumn in mind, our recipe remake for this issue is all about getting ready for the holiday season. The Woman Today team decided to share some of their favorite holiday dishes … everything from turkey with stuffing to a dessert called Possum Pie. Hosting this year? Mount Royal Market and Two Loons Gallery and Boutique provide some beautiful ideas to dress up that table this season to really impress your guests.

In this issue we also met with Carrie Straabe, who shares her story on the loss of her infant, Faith. October is Pregnancy & Infant Awareness Month, and we thank Carrie for being brave and sharing her story with us. Additionally, we had an opportunity to meet Katie Quade of Balanced Roots Retreats where she is providing a safe place for grieving mothers.

October is also Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Laurie Orbeck is a breast cancer survivor and therapist who shares her story with us and how she forged ahead to fight.

November is National Diabetes Month. Ani Othman, a Duluth resident and diabetes nurse from Malaysia, embraces her life in America and her path to becoming a diabetes nurse.

Looking for some work-life balance in your daily routine? Well, Debbie Merrick at In Harmony Reiki and Inner Wellness, and Kat Warner at Align Yoga provide some helpful tips to give your life some balance.

Thank you for picking up this issue of The Woman Today. We covered an array of stories that may bring a tear to your eyes, inspire your creativity or guide you to finding some more balance to your life. Because of you, our readers and amazing advertisers, we are able to provide you with our magazine eight times a year.

Carrie Straabe of Coleraine and her children Isabelle, 12, and Carter, 5, enjoy an afternoon on Lake Superior.

Thank you for your support!

Megan Keller Advertising Director

Rachel Lea Photography

Carol Marsh reflects on a 44-year health care career

By Andrea Busche

Carol Marsh isn’t afraid of hard work. On the contrary, she relishes it.

On June 4, 2021, she officially retired after a 44-year career at St. Luke’s hospital. However, she continues to be actively involved in many medical boards and associations, and even plans to continue working part time.

Marsh is also a purple-ribbon winner at the Minnesota State Fair, earning top honors for her homemade pies. And when it comes to overcoming challenges, her story of surviving cancer — and its devastating after-effects — have inspired many.

If you’re looking for an aspirational example of an active life of service, even into retirement, look no further.

Life on the farm

The seeds for Marsh’s work ethic, along with the inspiration to become a nurse, were planted in her youth. She was born and raised on a dairy farm about 20 miles from Bemidji, Minnesota. Marsh and her sister helped with daily chores on the farm, including haying in the summer time, and cleaning the barn.

Marsh learned the value of hard work from her parents, who both worked on the farm; her mother was also an elementary school teacher. She clearly remembers the dedication it took to keep the farm running.

“It didn’t matter if my dad had a backache; he still had to milk the cows,” Marsh said.

Inspiration for nursing

Shortly after graduating from Bemidji High School, Marsh’s grandfather became sick with pancreatic cancer. Marsh had long been considering a career in the medical field, but the professionalism and compassion displayed by her grandpa’s caregivers solidified this decision.

“His nurse made such an impression on me,” Marsh said.

After her grandfather’s passing, she moved to Duluth in order to pursue an education. “The expectation was that I would stick around my small town and farm,” Marsh said. “But I didn’t feel led to do that.”

Education

Marsh’s educational achievements are vast. First, she entered a registered nursing program at St. Luke’s School of Nursing, where she earned a diploma. Later, she returned to school to earn a bachelor’s degree in health arts from the College of St. Francis in Joliet, Illinois.

She then earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing from The College of St. Scholastica, and later, a master’s degree from CSS as a family nurse practitioner. She also has a certification through the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a family nurse practitioner.

She earned a post-graduate certificate in cardiovascular health and disease management from Loyola University in Chicago. Lastly, Marsh earned a doctor of nursing practice from CSS in May 2009.

Career

Marsh began her career at St. Luke’s in 1977, and never left.

“My intention was to stay for one year, get some experience, and move on,” she said. “But St. Luke’s has become like a family to me, and I stayed.”

Some career highlights spanning her 44 years of service include: working on the general surgical floor; as a staff nurse in the ICU; as the educational coordinator for critical care nursing; the head nurse in the ICU; working in occupational medicine and cardiology; and as an advanced practice nurse in cardiology – it was here that Marsh spent the bulk of her career.

Call to cardiology

Marsh has a special connection to cardiology, and has been involved in the Preventative Cardiovascular Nurses Association for over 20 years. In 2021, she was awarded the Terry Thomas Clinical Practice Award, which recognizes nurses for their prevention efforts regarding cardiovascular disease.

Marsh has served on the Board of Parish Nurses; is a member of the American College of Cardiology; and is a member of the National Lipid Association and American Nurses Association. She is also certified as a Clinical Lipids Specialist through the National Lipid Association. Marsh has also presented on the topic of cardiovascular health in a variety of venues.

When it comes to heart-healthy advice for the average person, Marsh said, “Stay active and avoid processed foods. Movement in general is good. Start small – like walking to your mailbox. It’s a process.”

Family and personal interests

Marsh has been married to her husband, Bob, for 38 years, and the couple live in Duluth. The Marshes have three adult children: Ben (36), Rachel (33), and Chris (27). They also have three grandchildren, and a Havanese dog named Sheldon.

In her spare time, Marsh enjoys reading, walking, politics and attending Minnesota Twins games with Bob. She is also a prolific baker.

“Growing up on the farm, I was exposed to a lot of cooking,” she said. “My dad served on the fair board, and I was in 4-H. In

2008, I was diagnosed with cancer. I went through some horrible years of treatment-related side effects, and wanted a distraction. So, I thought back to the fun times I had at the fair.”

Marsh began baking pies, and, to her surprise, the successes and recognitions came quickly. She won first-place in Braham, Minnesota’s Pie Day, for her single-crust apple pie with butterscotch crumb topping. She has also won four purple ribbons at the Minnesota State Fair.

“For whatever reason, I have a knack for making pies,” she said with a laugh.

Retirement

Although she is technically retired, Marsh continues to work part time.

“I do casual filling-in, in cardiology outreach in outlying areas like Hibbing and Ashland,” she noted. “I can cover in the clinic and the stress lab.”

In 2008, Marsh was diagnosed with colorectal cancer, and had to endure grueling surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Yet, she continued working — even pursuing her education — throughout her treatments. Today she is in remission and relishes her life and health.

“I think when you get diagnosed, some people give up,” she said. “If you have a change in bowel habits, or unexplained weight loss, get a screening – if it’s caught early, it can be treated.”

As someone who did just that, Marsh looks forward to a happy and fulfilling retirement full of baking, professional interests, family and friends.

“I would really like to do more with cooking in retirement,” she said. “Maybe I’ll work on a cookbook. Other than that, I really just want to enjoy my family and friends.” D

Andrea Busche is a Duluth freelance writer.

Overcoming breast cancer

By Molly Ovenden

Duluth resident Laurie Orbeck is mom to 18- and 12-yearold boys, and a 13-year-old dog. Orbeck is also a daughter and sister, mental health therapist, UMD graduate, gardener, traveller, and NPR listener.

“I’m kind of a nerd,” Orbeck said.

Her kids would say she’s “an old hippie,” born in the wrong decade, growing up on a farm, being outdoors.

Identifying as a cancer survivor isn’t her preferred conversation starter. During treatment, it was difficult not to lead with the cancer narrative, but she’s more than the cancer she’s overcome.

Preparing for cancer

Orbeck’s father received a stage 4 colon cancer diagnosis in 2009. Doctors gave him 12-18 months to live. Four years, 11 months later, on October 9, 2014, Orbeck’s father passed away.

Six months later in April, Orbeck received her own cancer diagnosis. At 44 years old, she’s younger than the average survivor.

“Dad taught me everything I needed to know to survive,” she said.

She pays tribute to the mammography techs because they helped her catch the cancer before anyone knew it was there.

“Had I not had my mammogram, I don’t know what

would’ve happened,” Orbeck said.

Treatment

“I was really adamant,” Orbeck said.

She fast-tracked the results to be able to tell her family in person at Easter.

The hardest part: telling her 75-year-old mom and sisters. They’d lost a husband and father only months earlier, but they were supportive.

Orbeck’s mom came to her first chemo appointment.

Orbeck followed recommendations, doing chemo before surgery to observe whether it’d work on her type of cancer. It wouldn’t be worth enduring treatments if it wasn’t effective, but it was.

Two weeks into treatment, her tumor was completely gone. Orbeck was thrilled and empowered to finish treatment.

Laurie Orbeck and her good friend, Jennifer, stand outside Cancer Treatment Centers of America, just outside of Chicago, in December 2015.

Ensuring she received a second opinion was important. For peace of mind, she visited Cancer Treatments of America, a private for profit hospital for cancer patients only.

Recovery

Orbeck hadn’t anticipated being bald with infected, fallingoff fingernails and toenails, but she operated in survival mode, enduring 13 months of cancer.

Breast cancer used to be a death sentence, but there’ve been significant medical advances over the past few decades.

“My mindset was about being alive for my kids,” she said. Orbeck prioritized her children and clients, only missing a few days of work.

With vulnerable clients, she wore a wig during treatment.

Eventually it got itchy and her hair grew back, turning from brown to silver. A colleague shaved his beard to distract clients from Orbeck’s suddenly short, grey hair.

Mastectomy decisions

Orbeck’s goal was to be alive, to watch her kids

Continued on page 10

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graduate. Everything she gave up, plus a mastectomy, hysterectomy and early menopause have been worth it, she said.

After a mastectomy, there are numerous options from plastic surgery to prosthetics. The health care team will advise, support group members can share what worked or didn’t for them, but ultimately it’s the individual’s decision.

Orbeck wears prosthetics. Dr. Friday at Essentia helped with reconstruction.

“It’s definitely not what I planned to do with the summer

of 2015,” Orbeck said.

She’s still celebrating all that she’s overcome and the life she’s able to live.

Orbeck’s advice from her experience

1. Ask for help. A therapist or breast cancer navigator can help. Women often struggle feeling weak or incapable because they can’t do everything. “Give yourself permission to not be superwoman,” Orbeck said. Experiencing depression or suicidal thoughts isn't uncommon, but it’s crucial to contact a mental health worker for support.

2. Don’t get lost in the “why me?” People often want to figure out why this is happening to them and do a stressful deep dive on their family history.

3. Research. Trust the care team, but get a second opinion, if that feels right. Remember that you’ll never know more than your oncologist. It’s also OK to not be part of a clinical trial if it doesn’t feel right.

4. Flush twice. Orbeck cautioned family members to let her clean the toilet while undergoing chemotherapy because it can be toxic to others.

Advice for caregivers, friends, family

Licensed oncology social worker Tina Roberts has worked for St. Luke’s in Duluth for more than 30 years, facilitating the breast cancer support group for 20 years. She offers the following advice

1. Be present. Maintaining a connection with your loved one, whether you talk or not is significant. Ask whether they want to talk or simply want someone to be with.

2. You can get support, too. When caring for someone

With her sons Samuel and Jeremiah by her side, Laurie Orbeck shaved her head in May 2015, “to look like my dad,” she explained.

Laurie Orbeck and her son, Sam, enjoy some beach time in Florida in February 2016.

Laurie Orbeck wears her first wig.

you love who is fighting breast cancer, take care of yourself so your caregiving is sustainable. Find a support group, online or in person.

3. Be specific. Ask your loved one about fulfilling a specific need, like cleaning the house, bringing a meal, booking appointments, doing laundry, etc.

Advice for breast cancer fighters

1. Advocate for yourself. Be honest about what you need from friends, family, and your medical community care team. You’re allowed to say, “‘I don’t want to talk about cancer today,’” Roberts said.

2. Renew joy. Spend time focusing on learning, nutrition, prayer, meditation, reading, journaling, expressing gratitude, and hold onto hope.

3. Allow people to help you. “Don’t take the joy of letting people help you,” Roberts said.

4. Community is powerful. Women in the support group are experts, honest about setbacks and reasons to be hopeful no matter what stage of the fight.

5. Everyone’s experience is different. Sharing can be helpful, but comparing isn’t. Remember that details of everyone’s case vary widely.

6. Feel and express your full spectrum of emotions. There’s lots to grieve: loss of time for appointments, labs and treatments, and loss of health. People can also feel joy daily.

“Every day we’re getting better and better and stronger and stronger,” Roberts said, sharing the support group declaration.

Continued on page 12

Laurie Orbeck gets cheeky at Universal Studios in February 2016, postchemo and surgery, but still doing infusions every three weeks — and no longer wearing a wig.

Laurie Orbeck marks the moment, in April 2016, when her port was removed.

Laurie Orbeck is all smiles with her sons Jeremiah (JJ) and Sam in October 2016, when treatments ended and she was “getting my life and health back.”

Laurie Orbeck enjoys Madeline Island where she attended a Breast Cancer Retreat in August 2017.

Laurie Orbeck explores New York City in November 2019.

Laurie Orbeck took this photo in January 2018 to show her hair was finally growing. my life and health back.”

Resources:

• American Cancer Society, cancercare.org

• Breastcancer.org

• After breast cancer diagnosis, abcdbreastcancersupport.org

St. Luke’s in Duluth Lakeview Building

• Cancer support group: first Monday, monthly, Lobby, 6-7:30 p.m.

• Caregiver support group: first Tuesday, monthly, 4th Floor, 3:30-5 p.m.

Essentia in Duluth Clinic in 1st Street Building

• Breast cancer support group: first Tuesday, monthly, Oncology Classroom, 3rd Floor, 6-7:30 p.m.

Molly Ovenden is a Duluth freelance writer.

WORK-LIFE BALANCE: Local wellness experts offer tips

By Molly Milroy and Andrea Busche

In today’s fast-paced world, it can be difficult to accomplish our regular daily tasks, let alone carve out time for self-care. Most of us have many “irons in the fire,” including work, raising kids, caring for pets, looking after aging parents and running side businesses.

But we all need to unplug, relax and tune out from time to time. Taking a self-imposed “time out” is beneficial for our mental health, the quality of our sleep and maintaining healthy relationships.

Here in the Northland, options abound. Many qualified wellness professionals, including practitioners of yoga, Reiki and massage — can easily be found. But if time and finances are scarce, thankfully a bit of self-care can be accomplished free of charge with just a few minutes of your time.

Two local professionals, Debbie Merrick, owner of In Harmony Reiki and Inner Wellness located in West Duluth,

and Kat Warner, owner of Align Yoga in Superior, shared their recommendations for attaining a healthier work-life balance, and therefore, a better life.

Decide what’s important

When it comes to work-life balance, the first thing Merrick suggests is deciding there is a choice.

“How much energy do I want to apply to each of the things in my life? What things do I maybe like, but they’re not as important to me and I can let those go for now?” She encourages asking ourselves.

“You don’t have to forget about them all together,” she said, “But maybe it’s not the season in life to participate in that (activity), and you can split things down a little bit so you can enjoy each thing you are doing more.”

Once you’ve done some analysis, it’s time to choose the type of self-care that works best for you.

Kat Warner demonstrates a yoga stretch pose at Align Yoga.

Reiki

Reiki is a Japanese form of alternative medicine, focused on energy healing.

“What that means,” Merrick said, “is our whole body, mind, thoughts, beliefs and memories — all of that is energy. Our body is energy and our energy system extends out beyond our body.

“Our energy system has its own rhythm and flow to it,” she added. “When it’s harmonized and flowing in a good rhythm, then we’re usually healthy, happy and things are usually on target.”

During a Reiki session, the client lays fully-clothed on a massage table. The practitioner will feel where the energy is not flowing correctly or thoroughly. Merrick does this by laying her hands on them, starting at their head or their feet.

“Clearing the blocks, cleansing the system of anything that no longer serves us and then refilling the energy system

with source energy, God energy, whatever you want to call it,” she explained. “The body then restores its own rhythm and flow, and then it’s in the best condition to heal itself.”

Clients experience a variety of sensations, including warmth, tingling or waves of energy moving in their body. Sharon Osborn, a regular client of Merrick’s, said, “When I have a Reiki session with Debbie, I feel physically lighter, my body is more relaxed, and I have a general sense of well-being.”

In addition to Reiki, In Harmony also offers posture training, life coaching and a variety of weekly workshops.

Yoga

Yoga is another option for self-care. Local classes are enjoyable and easy to locate, but one can also be self-taught by watching YouTube videos or renting an instructional DVD from the library.

Warner shared how yoga can help us all find more of that elusive work-life balance.

“Yoga gives you a break in your day. It gives you some ‘me time,’ and the ability to relax and move. Hopefully, you can shut down five of the 10 tabs open in your brain and slow down. It also teaches you skills (meditation and breathwork) that you can do throughout your day to help reduce stress and anxiety.”

Align Yoga was founded three years ago on the belief that not only is yoga about movement and feeling good, but it also

Continued on page 16

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Instructors at Align Yoga include Emily Barsness, Kat Warner and Megan Sanda.

can be an option for everybody.

“No matter your shape, size, gender, age, race, sexual orientation, or whether or not you’ve never done a downwardfacing dog in your life, you can unroll your mat, move and have fun,” Warner said.

“Yoga is simple,” she added. “It’s about listening to your body, coming to your mat, and slowing down. Take a few moments, remove the many hats we wear throughout the day and just be you.”

In addition to a variety of yoga classes, Align also offers meditation classes, sound healing, retreats, special events/ workshops, and more.

Other tips

Warner offered other suggestions.

“The biggest tip I have is to schedule: classes, rest and play,” she said. “Consider it a meeting with your boss. If you have that time blocked off, it’s a little harder to not do it.

“Also, have an ‘accountability partner,’” she added. “Have someone who will help you stick to your schedule. I have started doing that, and it helps so much.”

Another tip toward a balanced life is gratitude.

“Take time to find the silver linings throughout the day,” Warner said. “It can be as simple as really enjoying your morning coffee or as complicated as making progress on a project. I started writing down three things I am grateful for in

Debbie Merrick provides a listening ear and coaches a client at In Harmony Reiki and Inner Wellness in Duluth.

Debbie Merrick, right, works with a client during a posture session for health benefits at In Harmony Reiki and Inner Wellness.

Debbie Merrick, a Advanced Level 3 Practitioner in Usui Reiki Ryoho and owner of In Harmony Reiki and Inner Wellness, conducts a Reiki energy healing session with a client.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DEBBIE MERRICK

a journal before bed, and it genuinely helps my sleep and mood.”

Benefits

Most of us know how it feels to be overworked and burned out. Adding a bit of self-care into your routine can work wonders in improving the balance in your life.

“If your mental health is struggling, then everything else does, too,” Warner said. “It affects your sleep, diet, relationships, etc. Having some kind of balance helps all the above tiers in your life flow a little bit easier.

“Think of it like dominoes. Once one topples, generally they all do. By finding balance, you keep the dominos up and that helps you both physically and mentally.”

Final thoughts

Warner and Merrick wrapped up the topic of work-life balance with some final thoughts.

“Celebrate your wins and successes,” Warner said. “Focusing on the bright spots helps so much with mood and work-life balance.”

“Also, don’t take life too seriously,” she added. “I make it a goal to laugh at least a few times a day. One of my goals for the studio is to create an atmosphere of fun and laughter. It’s something people really resonate with, because, honestly, we need it.”

According to Merrick, achieving good self-care is ultimately about making choices.

“We’re so busy giving to everyone else and thinking that’s what we’re supposed to do and that it’s selfish to take time for ourselves, or to say ‘no’ to something,” Merrick said. “(But) it’s up to us to choose for ourselves. We’re the only ones who can decide what we want. I want others to value themselves so that they can be happy with who they are, and then they’ll be making choices that make them happy with their life.” D

Molly Milroy and Andrea Busche are Duluth freelance writers.

Debbie Merrick

D E N T A L

THERAPY FILLS A NEED IN RURAL AREAS

By Molly Milroy

For many people, going to the dentist is part of a lifelong routine of self-care, oral health and hygiene. Visiting the dentist usually means a dental hygienist cleans your teeth and takes X-rays before your dentist assesses your oral health, reviews your hygienist’s notes and discusses any concerns you have about your teeth to determine whether a follow-up treatment plan is necessary.

But this isn’t everyone’s experience. Depending on health care coverage available and geographic location or economic status, some people may not have access to dental care they need.

That’s where dental therapy comes in.

What is dental therapy?

Dental therapy offers care in rural communities and areas with a shortage of dental health professionals. While dental therapy has existed for decades globally, it’s newer to the United States, beginning within American Indigenous and Alaskan Native communities.

Not limited to Alaska, Minnesota also has dental therapists.

“Dental therapy really exists to serve underserved areas,” said Meaghan Morrell-Huot, D.D.S. at Lake Superior Dental, “and therapists tend to be found in community health centers or where folks are more likely to be underinsured or use medical assistance.”

Annie Adams, a dental therapist and recent graduate of the dental therapy program at the University of Minnesota, said, “In 2009 dental therapy was established in Minnesota and it’s the first state to license dental therapists.”

Training to become a dental therapist in Minnesota is extensive, requiring a bachelor’s degree in hygiene and a master’s degree in dental therapy. The dental therapy program takes five years to complete: two years of undergraduate coursework and three years of specific training. A doctor of dentistry requires eight years. A shortened program means dental therapists are available sooner to help dental practices serve communities who need more help.

Dentistry professionals at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry have been working for years to streamline the training and certification process across states and ensure accountability.

What does a dental therapist do?

A dental therapist is a mid-level role, a similar relationship to a dentist as a physician’s assistant or a nurse practitioner has

Continued on page 20

“In 2009 dental therapy was established in Minnesota and it's the first state to license dental therapists.”

When she’s not with patients, dental therapist Annie Adams likes to run, be outside, bake, and spend time with her two daughters, ages 4 and 2.

When aroutine screening results in adiagnosis ,you deservethe bes tc are. Here, we do whatever it takestoc arefor each other by caring abouteachother

In this place, we nevergiveup. Becausethat’swho we are.

Go to EssentiaHealth.org to learn more aboutscreeningoptionsand ourcancercenters .

with a medical doctor.

In addition to general dental hygienist responsibilities, they also fill cavities, apply fluoride protection and take X-rays. When a patient calls the office with a toothache, scheduling treatment with their dentist might take awhile. A dental therapist can emergency triage patients’ concerns and arrange a treatment plan.

While only a dentist could perform a root canal, for instance, a dental therapist can assess the patient, take X-rays and even perform some of the checks a dentist would do before scheduling them with a dentist.

Dental therapists function under their dentist’s supervision for all patient treatments, but with more experience they can become advanced dental therapists. This broadens the scope of dental therapists further, requiring only indirect supervision and freeing the dentist’s schedule for more complex procedures.

“To be an advanced therapist, certification requires 2,000 hours of experience and an oral presentation of patient cases,” Adams said.

Adams recently moved to Duluth to practice dental therapy. Hygienists came to her school to talk about their profession, so

since fourth grade, Adams knew she wanted to be in a dental role.

Once she completed some undergraduate study, Adams learned more about what a career in dentistry could be and decided to pursue dental therapy. With the range of tasks and responsibilities of a dental therapist wider than a hygienist, but narrower than a dentist, this appealed to her.

Adams works with the Cloquet, Duluth, and Hermantown locations of Lake Superior Dental, scheduling hygienist and dental therapy appointments, and has availability for triage and emergency patients as needed.

Benefits of a dental therapist

Melanie Meier, D.D.S. at Lake Superior Dental, has 38 years in dentistry: first as an assistant dentist in her childhood office and the last 25 years as a dentist.

Breaking her front tooth when she was 9 years old meant frequent trips to the dentist office for treatment, so she relates to her young patients. Building a positive relationship with her dentist during those formative years led her to her current profession.

Having seen a wide spectrum of patients, Meier said, “Dentistry needs have not gone away in 38 years.”

Dr. Melanie Meiers enjoys time playing outside, golfing, gardening, fishing, and spending time at her cabin near Moose Lake. She also appreciates being able to prioritize spending time with her individual patients.

Dr. Meaghan Morrell-Huot's two children, husband and bunny keep her busy while she’s not in the office. She also loves hiking, cooking, running, and cross-country skiing.

Meier continues to observe the role of dentistry as it remains a crucial aspect of health care.

“Proper dental care is crucial to maintain a healthy lifestyle,” Meier said.

Time-consuming procedures like fitting crowns, bridges or implants fills dentists’ schedules, so filling cavities, doing tooth extractions, and other less-complex issues might mean waiting weeks for an appointment.

Because of this, the addition of a dental therapist on the team has been significant. If a patient’s complaint is a task within her remit, a dental therapist has freedom in her schedule for less time-consuming procedures, allowing dentists to function at their highest scope of ability.

Meier and her fellow dentists can now ensure their patients feel cared for, allowing for often several hours for an individual’s needs, enabling their mission to put patients first.

While it’s a newer concept, dental therapy, Meier said, “has exceeded any expectations.”

Development of dental therapy

Meaghan Morrell-Huot, D.D.S., has practiced dentistry for 11 years. Interested in dentistry and public health, her childhood dentist encouraged her to become a dentist.

Like her own childhood experience, Morrell-Huot loves being a dentist who develops personal relationships with patients and their families.

“It’s especially fun watching kids grow up,” she said.

As a graduate of the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry, her program director was instrumental in implementing dental therapy and she’s watched it develop throughout her career.

“I’m happy to see how it’s come into play,” she said, because of how many people dental therapy will help.

Dental therapy is the “best way to serve the community,” said Morrell-Huot.

If someone is interested in a career in dental therapy, they can contact the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry, Minnesota Board of Dentistry, or the Minnesota Dental Therapy Association for more information. D Molly Ovenden is a Duluth freelance writer.

centerpiece ideas for every budget and style

By Andrea Busche

Whilemany of us feel a bit of melancholy in saying farewell to summer, the fall season ushers in plenty of its own joys, including cooler “sweater weather”; the lovely fall colors; and the cozy flavors and aromas of pumpkin, cinnamon and apple in our favorite recipes.

Autumn is also a great time to add a dash of seasonal décor to your home. With just a few well-selected pieces — which can easily fit into any budget — your home and table can reflect the beauty and comfort of the fall season.

Floral arrangements

Maria Emanuel is the department head for Mount Royal Market’s floral and gift department, 1600 Woodland Ave., in Duluth. If you’re making a quick stop, this establishment offers many readymade options, including grab-and-go mixed bouquets, indoor blooming plants, green plants, succulents, and plenty of gifts, such as lip balm, candles, soaps and more. But Emanuel will also happily make a custom arrangement for your home or table.

When it comes to creating the perfect fall centerpiece, Emanuel offered plenty of tips.

“For your table, I’d suggest seasonal mums, sunflowers, Hypericum berries and long-

stemmed orange roses,” she said.

For greenery to accompany your flowers, Emanuel favors seeded eucalyptus, baby eucalyptus and Italian ruscus. Additionally, for the autumn season, Emanuel likes to accessorize these florals with other natural items, such as gourds, wheat, cattails and birch branches.

There are also decisions to make about the container in which you choose to display your flowers.

“I use foam a lot, but I really like using vases — people will often remember to water their flowers when they can see the stems in water,” she said.

Art and décor

Lori and Joel Baird are the owners of Two Loons Art, Gifts, Apparel and Décor, 2025 W. Superior St., in Duluth. This sweet little shop offers a collection of art, gifts and home décor items. They specialize in locally made items, and work with 150 local artisans to sell their wares.

Lori Baird has several ideas for accessorizing your fall table with these types of pieces.

“I would add things like beautiful pottery; smaller, accent pottery; and fused glass pieces,” she said. “You can certainly add floral

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MARIA EMANUEL

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LORI BAIRD

arrangements to this, and I would definitely put candles in the arrangement, too. I also like seasonal table runners and placemats. Items like stained-glass lamps are beautiful in an entryway, too.”

Many of Baird’s customers request pieces that represent our area, making local artisan Jean Kennedy one of her top sellers.

“Many of Jean’s pieces feature agates, Lake Superior, fish and other wildlife,” Baird said. Other popular items are those that feature birch bark; a serving platter highlighting Lake Superior; and items with a natural color scheme.

National trends

Many of us are familiar with HGTV, a cable television channel featuring programming related to home improvements and real estate. A few of the network’s top shows include “House Hunters,” “Fixer Upper,” and “Property Brothers.”

HGTV typically has its finger on the pulse of national home and décor trends, and they did not disappoint when it comes to fall décor and/or centerpiece ideas that won’t break the bank. A few of the ideas recommended by HGTV writer, Maria Conti, include:

• Faux aspen tree branches.

• Autumn-themed tea towels.

• Felt pumpkin garland — a fuzzy “pom garland” constructed of a string of pumpkins.

• White-striped fabric pumpkins — hand-sewn, stuffed pumpkins and gourds.

• Grass plume dried botanicals.

• Pumpkin “filler” — a fall filler set featuring five blue, orange and cream pumpkins, that can be artfully displayed in a decorative bowl.

• Mini-fall-stamped books — each stack of “books” (for decoration only; they are not actual books) is crafted from unbound books, bound with rustic twine, and then handstamped with an autumnal phrase.

• Hand-painted wooden fall signs.

Continued on page 24

• Pumpkin and greenery garland.

• Eucalyptus pumpkin mini-wreath.

• Fall text blocks — hand-painted wooden signs, featuring a distressed cream backdrop and graphic black lettering.

• Cozy fall pillows, incorporating fall colors or phrases. Information on pricing, and links to purchase these items can be found at hgtv.com/shopping/news-and-trends/cheapfall-decorations.

Of course, many of these items can easily become “DIY,” and incorporated into your next craft project, too. Bonus

points if you have some of the items at home already, or can purchase them second-hand.

Holiday season

If you’re ready to look all the way ahead to Christmas, our local sources provided a few ideas, too. Emanuel recommends sprigs of evergreen, cedar and wintergreen; lilies; pine cones; and outdoor twigs.

“The greenery makes it smell nice, and is very long-lasting,” she said.

Baird has a fondness for seasonal, scented candles. While it is hard to believe, autumn is here. We may as well embrace it. One simple way to make the transition is by adding a few seasonal pieces into our homes.

Whether your preferences include floral arrangements, artsy décor pieces, DIY/crafts, or your aesthetic falls somewhere in the middle, there are options for every style and budget. Decking out your home or table with a few special pieces is one simple, affordable way to relish the comfort and joy of this special time of year. D

Andrea Busche is a Duluth freelance writer.

Raising Awareness: How to live when your baby doesn't

By Molly Ovenden

Whenan expectant mother loses a child through miscarriage or in early infancy, the pain is indescribable. Not only is it the loss of family and future plans hoped for, but it can also bring feelings of hopelessness and shame about who she is as a woman or a mother. The emotional pain can be so overwhelming that she doesn’t feel she can talk about it. As a result, many women suffer in silence.

But it doesn’t have to be this way.

In 1988, President Reagan named October “Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month.” Recognizing the unique grief experienced provides opportunities for others to show support for those grieving and in remembrance.

Katie Quade and Carrie Straabe have made their own paths through grief. They’ve continued living without forgetting their little ones who didn’t.

Duluth to Australia to Balanced Roots Retreats

Katie Quade, born and bred Duluthian and married to

Katie, Adam, and Gabriel visit Sylvia’s grave to keep her memory alive in their minds and to help Gabriel know his sister as he grows.

Adam, lives in Golden Valley, Minnesota with her husband and their infant son, Gabriel.

Katie and Adam traveled to Australia with a sense of adventure, longing to experience a different way of life. Australia was filled with slowliving activities: visiting local markets, doing yoga, beach time. Quade realized life didn’t have to be so busy.

“I felt quiet for the first time,” she said.

When they returned to Minnesota in summer 2019, Quade wanted to make some life changes, so she started meeting with a business coach. After a few months back home, she also became pregnant.

In February 2020, Quade launched her business, Balanced Roots Retreats, implementing beloved aspects of an Australian slower pace, to help women find inspiration to live their greatest lives.

Losing Sylvia

creating connection and change women

Several weeks into her pregnancy, Quade began bleeding, so she visited the hospital for an ultrasound. Bleeding continued sporadically. Doctors assured her it was normal, until it wasn’t.

At the start of the pandemic shutdown in America, additional fear surrounded Quade as she waited to deliver her baby at 18 weeks, only to welcome and say goodbye to her daughter Sylvia, who was born asleep.

Quade’s first day home from the hospital was also her first Mother’s Day. It didn’t seem fair.

“I felt really empty,” Quade said.

What happens next?

Feeling called to help women and entrepreneurs, she wanted to facilitate events to help women slow down, find peace and quiet, and reevaluate their focus in life, and now, process losing a child.

“Generating awareness for baby loss and miscarriage is something that needs to be done,” Quade said.

Her Catholic faith and spirituality have been a solid foundation of support to help her process her loss and find connection with others.

While Quade found support by listening to others’ authentic stories and sharing hers, she encourages women who’ve also suffered loss to find what works for them and for their families.

When Quade and her husband discovered she was pregnant again, she was grateful for the possibility. While this pregnancy wasn’t without its scary moments, the Quades welcomed their

son, Sylvia’s little brother, Gabriel, into the world on April 29, 2021.

For Balanced Roots Retreats experiences or Life By Design courses, visit www.balancedrootsretreats.com. For details about the Quade Family, visit Katie’s blog or social media via Hey, It’s Katie Q.

Meeting Faith

Carrie Straabe lives in Coleraine, Minnesota with daughter Isabelle (Bella), 12; son Carter, 5, and horse Otis, 28, reading and running in her free time.

When Bella was about 9 months, Straabe discovered she was pregnant again. About three weeks into her second trimester, Straabe developed a subchorionic hemorrhage. There was a possibility of miscarriage, but the tear decreased, so it seemed OK.

Baby Faith had normally been active, but the morning of her scheduled C-section, she was quiet. When she didn’t feel much movement, she worried. The nurse tried to find her heartbeat.

“I felt normal the night before,” Straabe said.

What proceeded happened quickly in a blur. Straabe saw the radiologist, and then went to delivery. They opted for a natural birth which went smoothly. But on April 17, 2010, Faith was born with the umbilical cord around her neck.

“She looked like she was sleeping,” Straabe said.

Processing grief

Straabe didn’t want to talk about what happened. She

Continued on page 28

PHOTO COURTESY OF RACHEL LEA PHOTOGRAPHY

Katie Quade of Balanced Roots Retreats toasts her guests at a shared meal, part of

long for. Balanced Roots offers a luxury retreat experience to slow down and reflect.

Katie Quade loves travelling and hiking in the mountains with her husband, Adam. She encourages women who've experienced loss to do something they enjoyed before their loss. For her, the outdoors called.

wanted to figure it out.

Her aunt had shared about her own miscarriage. This was the first person Straabe knew directly who’d lost a child, and talking to her helped, but Straabe was still in shock.

“I can’t believe this happened to me,” she said.

She knew she was responsible for caring for this baby’s life, but she had lost it.

“I felt shame,” Straabe said.

She encourages other moms to forgive themselves, to slow down to make sense of their broken hearts and accept they’re not to blame. Journaling helped, too.

Caring for family

Empty of the life she’d carried, the urge to care for someone compelled her to pour into others. In the beginning, Straabe found it helpful to be able to help her

Carrie Straabe’s children Isabelle, 12, and Carter, 5. The family celebrates sister Faith’s birthday every year.

Carrie Straabe’s children, 5-year-old Carter and 12-year-old Bella, are ready for a night of trick-or-treating.

Carrie Straabe of Coleraine and her children Isabelle, 12, and Carter, 5, enjoy an afternoon on Lake Superior.

husband cope with losing their daughter.

“What helped me the most was to take care of people, to be immersed in tasks,” Straabe said.

Straabe keeps Faith’s ashes on the mantle in remembrance.

She talks with her children about Faith in ways they can understand, each year celebrating her birthday with cupcakes.

Years later, her son Carter was a surprise. Worried about all that could go wrong, the memories of fear and grief from losing Faith flooded her mind. She lost weight, stressed over potentially losing him.

Giving birth to a healthy son helped how she felt about herself. She could carry a child to full term.

“You can lose a child and still go on and have a normal birth,” she said.

Helping your friend grieve

• Ask your friend how she wants to talk about her baby and say her baby’s name.

• Ask when the due date should have been and connect with her then.

• A text message or phone call check-in goes miles.

• Reach out on Mother’s and Father’s Days. Someone who has lost a baby is still a parent. D Molly Ovenden is a Duluth freelance writer.

Carrie Straabe and her 5-year-old son, Carter.

World Day: November 14 DIABETES

By Molly Ovenden

The summer between sophomore and junior years in college marked when 27-year-old Duluth resident Jena Benoit’s life changed.

With a middle school POTS diagnosis (postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome), symptoms of feeling faint or dizzy, low blood pressure and high heart rate were common. Her doctor anticipated she’d grow out of POTS, but they ran tests for blood glucose. But more tests revealed Type 1 diabetes.

Overwhelmed at 20 years old, she said, “I remember being in the car afterwards just being in tears.”

Thirty-six-year-old Superior resident Megan Wilson’s parents were concerned when she’d been losing weight, drinking extra water and urinating

Jena Benoit loves hiking and biking by Lake Superior. She likes cooking and baking sweets as well as doing crafts, from card making to home decor wreath making.

excessively, so she went to the doctor the day before second grade.

“Life completely changed,” Wilson said, with her Type 1 diabetes diagnosis.

A steep learning curve

Checking blood sugar, insulin injections and counting carbs were new concepts.

“I definitely had a fear of needles before the diagnosis,” Benoit said.

“It stinks to be a diabetic and terrified of needles,” Wilson said.

Wilson’s mom and teacher helped give injections.

At 10, Wilson attended Camp Needlepoint, returning annually until age 16, and then as a staff member for seven more years.

“For the first time in my life it was normal to have diabetes,” Wilson said. She even gave herself a shot for the first time at camp.

Ani Othman’s continued love of geography and travel pairs well with her nursing and diabetes educator roles. Here she's in Cameroon, Africa, doing diabetes education and staff training.

fully embraced the Northland lifestyle, so different from where she was

On the Munger Trail with her bike, Ani Othman has

born in Malaysia.

Daily challenges

It’s hard “how unpredictable it can be,” Benoit said.

Everything impacts diabetes. Sometimes exercise or stress raises blood sugar.

“It’s kind of an invisible disease,” Wilson said.

“Honestly, I would say nothing is easy. It’s there 24/7. I’m constantly thinking about what’s going on.”

“Everything needs to be planned out around my blood sugar … (and it’s) harder to be spontaneous,” Benoit said.

Tools like an insulin pump and a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) make life easier.

A CGM measures real-time glucose levels. It takes 60-90 minutes for insulin to take effect. The monitor shows active insulin levels in their system.

Finding clothes that can stow her pump is tricky, too. She’s strategic when mountain biking. It’s flown off before.

Benoit also loves cycling, enjoying the American Diabetes Association’s Tour de Cure bike rides. Events like JDRFOne Walk are empowering, too.

Choosing to thrive

“I feel like you have to make it fun. There’s not much that’s fun about diabetes,” Benoit said.

She celebrates her successful life while living with diabetes every year on her diagnosis day.

Wilson celebrates annually, too, marking “the accomplishment of living another year,” she said.

“You can’t do it alone,” Benoit said.

Friendships with other Type 1 diabetics have been crucial. Wilson still connects with Camp Needlepoint friends, as well as with diabetic athletes through social media.

Wilson jokes about her CGM or insulin pump, “It’s my robot superpowers.”

Words of encouragement for newly diagnosed

It’s helpful when friends are aware of the signs of high and low blood sugar.

Wilson recommends having friends ask “‘Hey, how can I best support you?’”

“It’s possible to live your life to the fullest and do all the things you want to do (with diabetes) even when it doesn’t seem like that in the beginning,” Benoit said.

“Don’t let diabetes stop you from doing anything you really want to do. It’s worth the challenge. … It’s OK to not be OK, to hate the disease, to express how you feel when things aren’t going how they should,” Wilson said.

Diabetes professional

For Duluth resident Ani Othman, 59, diabetes is a constant thought for her, too. She’s an RN diabetes educator at Essentia Health. Born on the other side of the world, Othman left Malaysia in 1985.

Othman studied in the medical track in Malaysia with biology, math and education, but she loved geography.

“I want to go somewhere famous in terms of geography,” Othman said.

From a hot country, she’s curious about the weather and wanted to see snow. Having learned about the Great Lakes, she looked in Minnesota.

“I came straight to Duluth to go to UMD,” Othman said.

After decades of Minnesota winters, she still enjoys looking at snowflakes.

Initially she couldn’t find work in biology or geography fields, so she returned to school for nursing.

Skills from various degrees came full circle. Using biology to understand the human body, how it has a geography of its own, Othman explains what’s happening in a patient's body and how

Silliness and sense of adventure is what keeps Megan Wilson going, especially being outside.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MARTINA MELLANG

Megan Wilson poses at a running race with her classic big smile, ready to hit the ground running.

diet and activity impacts them.

Cultural differences

In 1990, Othman married native Minnesotan Bob Flagler. Having experienced American student life and culture, she realized with Flagler that there was even more American culture, and she continues learning nuances of language or culture.

Many people still think American roads are “paved with gold,” Othman said.

It’s true for her. With job shortages in Malaysia, America continually provides opportunities to study and work. Cultural curiosity and love of learning made her stay in Minnesota.

Life today

“I think as I get older, I’m more mindful,” she said, proudly anticipating her 60th birthday.

Elders are respected in Malaysian culture.

She remains humble, too, as new cultural lingo pops up in daily conversation.

Pronunciation is different between English and Malay alphabets.

She said, “I give people permission … (to ask) me to slow down. I have an accent. I’m not a native speaker.” D

Types of Diabetes

• Type 2: The most common type when the body’s improper insulin use means some people manage blood sugar levels with healthy eating and exercise. Others need medication or insulin.

• Type 1: Often found in children or adults under age 30. The pancreas doesn’t produce insulin. The body converts consumed carbohydrates into blood sugar (blood glucose) for energy. Insulin transports glucose from the bloodstream to body cells, so insulin therapy helps.

• Gestational Diabetes: During pregnancy, the body’s unable to produce or process insulin, causing high blood sugar, and usually disappears after birth.

• Secondary Diabetes: This rare form, results from a genetic disorder, disease, medication side effects or pancreatic surgery.

Support Resources

• The Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists

• Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation

• Diabetes Public Health Resources (Center for Disease Control)

• American Diabetes Association

BE: TRENDY WITH DESIGNER FRAMES

Molly Ovenden is a Duluth freelance writer.

Arts & Events Calendar

Bayfield Apple Festival

October 1-3

This event is a celebration of the autumn harvest and Bayfield’s agricultural heritage. Tour the orchards and wineries, peruse fine arts and crafts while sampling local foods at more than 60 food booths. Enjoy live music by the Blue Canvas Orchestra of Big Top Chautauqua and a carnival. Special events include the crowning of the Apple Queen, an apple peeling contest and a Saturday evening fish fry at the historic Bayfield Lakeside Pavilion. The festival culminates with the Grand Parade, featuring a mass band with 400 participants playing On Wisconsin, marching down historic Rittenhouse Avenue in Bayfield, Wis., to Lake Superior.

DOGTOBERFEST

October 2

We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of this information. However, you should always call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information.

This fun family event for all dog lovers will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Itasca Dog Lodge, Grand Rapids, and includes a professional photographer, mobile pet spa, dog massage, food vendors, agility demos, and contests for costume, trick, biggest/ smallest and look-alike, and rally races. Some proceeds will help benefit Range Regional Animal Rescue. Dogs may attend but must be on a leash and not show aggression. Tickets are sold at the door. For more information, call 218-301-9532.

Duluth Art Institute Masquerade Gala

October 9

Show your support for the Duluth Art Institute, Roaring 20s style! Enjoy classic

DAI Gala elements including silent auction packages, heads and tails, and a Funda-Need program. Inspired by the success of the 2020 Virtual Gala, the 2021 Gala offers a multilevel ticket option, exciting raffle items, and a once-in-a-lifetime afterparty experience you will not want to miss. The 1920s were a decade of growth and celebration and the 2020s are quickly trending this way, too. The Masquerade Gala is the DAI’s premier annual event and fundraiser; location to be determined. Visit www.duluthartinstitute. org.

Duluth Gala

October 21

The Adult & Teen Challenge’s annual gala will be held from 5-9 p.m. at the DECC’s Harbor Side Ballroom. Hear stories of the miracles that are happening every day within our walls and help us to continue to restore families, strengthen communities, and transform lives. There will be a silent auction. Contact Abby Shirley at 218-7405509 or abby.shirley@mntc.org for more information.

October 27

The Northland Senior Expo is now the GO Show (Getting Older But Still Going), set for 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center. Today’s seniors and soon-to-be seniors are active, working, having fun, helping raise their children’s children, vacationing, crafting, building, buying – they are still going. At the GO Show, which is free, you’ll still find all the important information you need as you get older – estate planning, healthcare, etc –but will also focus on things you WANT to do! This means more fun – with exhibitors featuring travel, beer, food, outdoor gear, hobbies, and afternoon entertainment. Over 100 vendors will be at the expo. For more information, visit Goshowexpo.com.

Taste at Fitgers

October 29

A new twist on this 25-year event: dress up for Halloween and sample themed entrees, desserts, non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages from our region’s finest purveyors. Stay for the after-party including a DJ, cash bar and costume contest. Taste at Fitgers will be held from 6-9 p.m. Friday, oct. 29, at Fitger’s Brewery Complex in Duluth. Proceeds benefit Second Harvest Northern Lakes Food Bank. Purchase tickets at www.eventbrite. com.

Junk Hunt: Fall 2021

November 4-6

Handpicked vendors from all over the state of Minnesota and beyond bring junk, repurposed treasures and rusty finds to sell at the annual fall Junk Hunt at the DECC Pioneer Hall. For more information, visit www.duluthjunkhunt.com.

Continued on page 36

Arts & Events Calendar

Holistic Healing & Wellness Fair

November 6

Come to explore everything spiritual, holistic and wellness related from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the University of Superior Yellowjacket Union, featuring a variety of vendors offering psychic, tarot, and angel readings, aura photos, various types of energy healers, essential oils, crystals, gemstones and more. There will also be a group gallery event similar to John Edwards

and Teresa Caputo, as well as free lectures. Entrance fee is $5, with free gift/swag bags to the first 25 people.

Jingle All The Way Craft and Direct Sales Show

November 13

This fourth annual event will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Shriner's building in Hermantown, featuring 45-50 vendors (mostly handmade) and a limited number of your favorite direct sellers. There is always plenty of great easy parking at this location.

Duluth VIP Princess Party

November 14

Join the princesses for stories, songs, dances, and a magical meet-and-greet! Tickets include a professional portrait with Elsa and Anna. Pose for photos, get autographs and create memories with your little one. Make a pixie wish and create a craft! Time slots are 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. at Clyde Iron Works. For tickets, visit www.eventbrite.com.

• Environmental Education integrated throughout the curriculum

• Art, Music, PE, and Environmental Ed Specialists

• Small Class Sizes

• Busing from Duluth and Two

Christmas City of the North Parade

November 19

This annual holiday tradition has been around since the 1950s and features marching bands, dance performances, colorful floats and an appearance by Santa Claus. The parade begins at 6:25 p.m. from Fitger’s in Duluth and runs along Superior Street throughout the heart of downtown to 4th Avenue West. Spectators are welcome to watch the parade from anywhere along the route. The parade is broadcast live on KBJR-TV channel 6.1 and online at kbjr6. com. For more information, contact parade coordinator Angela Green at 218-481-6183 or agreen@ kbjr6.com.

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Pepperkakebyen: Gingerbread City

November 19 through December 20

This 10th annual event opens 6:30-8:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 19, for the City of the North Parade, and will be held Saturdays and Sundays, Nov. 20 to Dec. 19, at The Nordic Center, 23 N. Lake Ave., Duluth. This is made possible by the Nordic Center, Nortun Lodge 1-016 Sons of Norway, and UMD art education students. Everyone is welcome to view the village, enjoy refreshments, make Nordic crafts and join us in celebrating winter in Minnesota. For updates or changes, visit www.nordiccenterduluth.org.

ONGOING:

Duluth Children’s Museum

115 S. 29th Ave. W., Duluth 218-733-7543

duluthchildrensmuseum.org

Duluth Depot

506 W. Michigan St., Duluth 218-727-8025

duluthdepot.org

Douglas County Historical Society

1101 John Ave., Superior 715-392-8449

douglashistory.org

Glensheen Historic Estate

Bentleyville Tour of Lights Opening Night

November 20 through December 27

Duluth’s mega-light spectacular opens for the season with free cookies and hot cocoa for everyone from 5-10 p.m. at Bayfront Festival Park. Stroll under the glow of 4 million lights in the 20-acre park. Santa and Mrs. Claus, along with Rudolph the RedNosed Reindeer, will be on hand for photos and handing out candy canes. See www.bentleyvilleusa. org for more information.

MN Christmas Market

November

27

The MN Christmas Market is an annual popup holiday shopping event that showcases homegrown brands and makers, with a charitable twist, set for 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Edmund Fitzgerald Hall at the DECC. All vendors will donate 7% of sales from the event to The Reel Hope Project, which makes videos of kids in Minnesota who are waiting to be adopted, sharing these videos around the state to find a forever family for every child. Sponsored by Schuler Shoes, the MN Christmas Market will cost $1 at the door, with a $25 VIP ticket option available through Eventbrite. Those with VIP tickets will skip the line and receive one hour of early shopping from 9-10 am. with special discounts and a complimentary cocktail/coffee drink.

3300 London Road, Duluth 218-726-8910

glensheen.org

Great Lakes Aquarium 353 Harbor Dr., Duluth 218-740-3474 glaquarium.org

Lake Superior Zoo

7210 Fremont St., Duluth 218-730-4500

lszooduluth.org

North Shore Scenic Railroad

506 W. Michigan St., Duluth 218-722-1273

duluthtrains.com

The Lake Superior & Mississippi Railroad 6930 Fremont St., Duluth 218-624-7549 lsmrr.org

Duluth woman finds a new outlook

By Anthony Matt

At 40 years young, you wouldn’t think Sarah Willey has fought one of the toughest health care battles a woman can face. What most people see when they meet her are a love for life, a bubbly personality and a desire to make people smile.

“I always try to laugh and put a positive spin on things. I just try to turn everything into life’s irony and make a joke about it,” said Willey.

In early 2017, Willey’s exuberance hit a roadblock. A selfexamination revealed a lump on her breast. A biopsy following an abnormal mammogram confirmed her suspicions.

“Stage 2 breast cancer — HER2 positive, hormone receptornegative. It’s a cancer that grows really fast, so you have to move quickly,” she said. “I was in shock. There is no cancer history in my family.”

Further testing revealed at least four tumors that had spread to her lymphatic system and her armpit.

“My first thought was, ‘Who is going to take care of my children?’” Willey explained. “How was I going to tell my friends and family? We had just lost my mother a few months prior; how was I supposed to share more devastating news?”

Willey’s primary care doctor at Essentia Health, Dr. Steven Baker, and her oncologist, Dr. Peter Kebbekus, absorbed the diagnosis and created a customized treatment plan. That plan included 18 weeks of chemotherapy and an additional 36 weeks of drug infusion.

“The care was unlike anything I’ve ever seen,” said Willey. “I didn’t have to worry about managing any of it. When you’re going through treatment, your head is spinning, you’re focused on trying to stay alive. In the midst of that, there are so many doctors office visits to make, tests and biopsies, etc. It’s tough, but they made it so easy for me. All I had to do was show up and let them save my life.”

All that care, all the tests and checkups, would pay dividends. Just six months after her diagnosis, and just days before Christmas, Willey was declared in remission with no evidence of disease.

“The chemo worked as well as could be expected and there was no leftover cancer in the breast or lymph nodes,” said Dr. Kebbekus. “She kept her sense of humor throughout and put up with all the physical insults of being a cancer patient with courage and grace.”

“It was the greatest Christmas gift ever,” said Willey. “Not everyone is as lucky as me, and I’m just so thankful.”

Willey underwent a double mastectomy that was recommended by Dr. Kathleen Monaghan, a surgeon at Essentia.

“Dr. Monaghan and I both agreed a mastectomy was the best choice for me due to the multiple tumor sites in my left breast,” said Willey. “I decided to remove both so the result of reconstruction would afford a matching set. After all, they were just breasts and do not define who I am as a woman.”

In addition to her doctors, Willey said her children, now 11 and 16, played a monumental role in her winning the fight of her life.

“They helped keep me grounded, they kept me focused,” she said. “My youngest, Alissa, 7 at the time, was my partner in crime through the whole thing. She would come with me for drug infusions and walked around the infusion center with her positive attitude like she owned the place.”

Willey’s experience has given her a new outlook on life, learning to enjoy those little moments that are often overlooked.

“I used to hate my birthday, especially as I got older,” she said. “Now I love it! It’s a celebration of another year that I get to watch my children grow and spend time with my close friends and family. I’m so much more grateful for every day that I have.”

Willey stresses the importance of routine physicals and

listening to your body.

“Cancer can happen to anyone at any age,” she said. “If you feel like something is off, go see your provider. Listen to your gut instinct. Don’t think you’re too young for this to happen to you. Cancer doesn’t choose an age and it moves fast, too fast for you to sit on it.”

Dr. Kebbekus said Willey did the right thing by seeking care immediately, and that early detection gives people the best chance of survival.

“Breast cancer is very treatable as long as it hasn’t spread beyond the local lymph nodes,” he said. “Timely screening with mammograms can pick up almost all breast cancers while they are still curable.”

Willey ended up tattooing her mastectomy site to serve as a daily reminder of a grueling battle against cancer.

“It reminds me that I am strong and to love and embrace who I am and what I have been through. I don’t need breasts to be beautiful,” she said.

In remission for more than three years, Willey is happy to spend her time camping with her kids, reading, going on road trips, volunteering as a sexual assault advocate at the Program for Aid to Victims of Sexual Assault (PAVSA) and enjoying each and every birthday life brings her way.

Anthony Matt is the media relations specialist at Essentia Health.

Samantha Roffers, a Moose Lake writer, believes it’s important to shop for things you love and feel comfortable in. Everyone’s style is unique and that’s what makes it so special.

Hellodear readers, happy fall y'all! It's hard to believe holidays are right around the corner and another winter looms in the near future. Summer barely got its shoes off and then it was headed right back out the door it seems. Hopefully it sticks around a little longer next year, or maybe I need to find a time machine! One thing I do love about the change of seasons is the transition into cozy sweaters and fleece lined leggings. There was no shortage of beautiful fall apparel at The Wildflower Boutique, we headed over the bridge to Superior Wisconsin to check them out for this issue. Walking into The Wildflower Boutique it is immediately obvious that owner Tiffany Simons puts her heart and soul into this boutique. It is beautifully and carefully decorated with both personal and seasonal touches. Tiffany is so incredibly warm and welcoming. She does an amazing job making you feel comfortable and helping you pick out amazing outfits. Her store is laid out in a very “easy to shop” manner. It is very appealing to the eye and makes finding pieces a breeze. There is minimal digging needed, it's all very easy to see and easily accessible. Tiffany carries a great selection of tops, bottoms, shoes and accessories. There is truly something for everyone. All of us ladies with The Women Today left with bags full of goodies from our stop! I can't wait to show you some of my finds… D

by Sam

Look number one absolutely spoke to my soul. The warm tones, cozy material and southwestern print are right up my alley. This cardigan could easily be paired with jeans, leggings or slacks as well as an array of different colored tops underneath it. It came with pockets and drapes beautifully. I paired it with some distressed jeggings, a burnt orange tank top and an adorable necklace. You could wear this look with sneakers or flats but I think some knee high tan boots would be stunning.

2

Look number two was so fun! Keeping the distressed jeggings going I paired them with this gorgeous turquoise sweater and southwestern print sneakers. This sweater was so soft and comfortable and the bright hue really made it the star of this look. These adorable sneakers paired perfectly with this top for a totally cute and effortless “wear anywhere” outfit. You all know by now I'm a girl who loves her comfy outfits so this one was right up my alley.

3 4 5

This third look was one of my favorites. The blush colored tank top and buttery soft, white sweater made for the most adorable and perfect look. This is the perfect everyday outfit but could easily be dressed up for a date night or other occasions. This sweater was so incredibly soft, like being wrapped in a brand new sherpa blanket. I paired this with leggings and my signature birkenstocks but this would pair beautifully with basically any other jean or shoe.

This fourth look was so fun and screams FALL. I love plaids for fall, they are so versatile and a great way to add pop to an outfit without getting too crazy. This oversized buffalo plaid vest and black top would look amazing paired with a skinny jean and tan boot or bootie. I worked with what I had on hand and paired it with leggings and my birkenstocks which I still feel works. This is a great transition outfit for these warm fall days and could easily be worn into winter.

Look number five brought out all my inner sass! This isn't something I would typically wear. I am a firm believer in wearing leggings as pants but only when my bottom is covered. I definitely felt a little exposed in this look but it paid off, its adorable! The main piece of this look was the awesome open back sweater. This is such a fun way to show off your summer tan while heading into fall. It is a different cut than most shirts which in my opinion makes it super fun and unique. The funky shoes and hat were just a bonus to the awesome shirt!

Receiving the gift of sight

How St. Luke’s Eye

By Claire Kiger

"For most of my life I’ve barely been able to see,” said Laura Miller, working mom of three. “Driving at night was the hardest for me. I had gotten to the point where I only felt comfortable going places during the daytime.” With teenage daughters, this significantly affected their lives — especially during the dark months of winter.

Finally, Laura decided to do something. She went in to be fitted for glasses, but was frustrated to find that her prescription never seemed quite right. After a while, she went to see an ophthalmologist. There she was diagnosed with keratoconus, a rare progressive eye disease. “I thought I was going to be stuck with bad vision forever,” she said. “I was really discouraged.”

Then she found out that there were specialty contact lenses, called scleral lenses, which might be able to improve her vision. She also found out that Dr. Kevin Mueller, optometrist at St. Luke’s Eye Care, was one of the few providers in the Twin Ports area who fit them. She made an appointment and hoped he would be able to help her.

Finding hope

Keratoconus causes the cornea to thin and bulge. Scleral lenses help by replacing this irregular optical surface. Made from a rigid, gas permeable material, scleral lenses rest on the white part of the eye, the sclera, instead of the cornea like normal contact lenses, and the bowl of each lens is filled with a clear solution. The perfect surface of the lens combined with this solution work together to act as a replacement cornea.

“Scleral lenses work well for patients with corneal injuries, scars or deformity,” said Dr. Mueller. “Fitting may take several visits. Once fit, evaluations tend to be yearly with further adjustments made as necessary.”

During Laura’s first appointment, a map was taken of each cornea to determine a starting fit and power for her lenses. “Dr. Mueller and his technician Joe were just great,” said Laura. “I asked a lot of questions and they answered all of them in depth. I felt really hopeful.”

Amazed by sight

Soon, Laura’s lenses had arrived. She went in again and Joe helped her put them in for the first time. She was blown away by the results. “I could see clearly for the first time — it was absolutely crazy!”

she said. “I remember looking down at my hand and being just amazed at all the detail. All the lights in the room were so crisp. I could see the edges and the textures of everything. I started crying. It totally changed my life.”

Walking out of the clinic that day, Laura couldn’t believe everything she had been missing.

“My whole world opened up,” she said. “To be able to see all the trees and the leaves so clearly, or to look at my daughters’ irises with all of the unique details — I’d never seen any of that before. I want everyone to be grateful for the gift of sight and to protect it.”

Eye care at St. Luke’s

Dr. Mueller believes being proactive is the best way to protect your vision.

“Preventative health is more effective than waiting for significant issues to arise,” he said. “Most providers will advise exams every one to three years for generally healthy individuals. I lean towards yearly, especially after 40.”

The providers at St. Luke’s Eye Care help patients of all ages with a wide range of vision concerns. This includes the diagnosis, management and treatment of many issues including cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, eyelid disorders and more. LASIK eye surgery and care for sudden eye concerns or injuries are also available.

“I’m so thankful I can see, but I wish I had done something about it sooner,” said Laura. “Find an eye doctor and go in once a year. It’s so important.”

To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit slhduluth.com/ EyeCare. D

Laura Miller enjoys time with her three daughters.

Dr. Kevin Mueller, optometrist at St. Luke’s Eye Care, believes that life-long eye care is important, especially preventative care.

Claire Kiger is a marketing specialist and writer for St. Luke’s.

Care helped one woman overcome her rare eye condition

Modern farmhouse built around faith, family

By Andrea Busche

F

or the Urshan family of Hermantown — homeowners Jordan and Justine and their three young children, Maeylin, 9, Emmaline, 7, and Ezekiel, 5 — the location of their new, modern farmhouse-style home is ideal in many ways. Jordan’s parents, Dan and Cindy Urshan (whose Caribou Lake home was also featured in a previous issue of The Woman Today), have owned this parcel of land since the 1980s.

“I actually grew up on this property — two doors down, in a farmhouse,” Jordan said. In fact, roughly 25 years ago, Jordan’s father planted the beautiful, mature pine trees that now surround the home, adding another special familial touch to the property.

Ultimately, the Urshans, who have been married for 11 years, purchased this 10-acre parcel about 10 years ago, with big plans for the future.

“I always knew we wanted to build here,” Jordan said. “We wanted our kids to experience childhood here.”

Surrounded by lots of trees, the 3,700-square-foot home of Jordan and Justine Urshan of Duluth makes quite an impression with white seamless steel siding (placed vertically) and contrasting black doors, windows and trim. A large stamped concrete patio in the back of the house is perfect for family gatherings.

The upper level of the Urshan home is set up for home schooling and includes a large table, shelving, and even lockers for the couple’s three children.

In the meantime, Jordan, a financial advisor for Urshan Retirement Group, and Justine, a stay-at-home, homeschooling mom, spent years purchasing, improving and reselling two other homes in order to help build equity for constructing their dream home. Today, that ambitious dream has been realized at last.

Selecting professionals

When it came time to select a contractor and designer, there was no question who the Urshans’ “dream team” would be: general contractor Ken Hiukka and Heather Hiner from Hiner Home Designs.

“Ken had built two homes for my parents,” Jordan said, “and they had also used Heather, who was able to visualize and put it all together. She made all of our ideas work. And Ken is so honest, and does a good job. He truly cares about quality and the end result.”

“Ken and Heather are both very thorough,” Justine said. “When you haven’t built a house before, you don’t know where to start. The end result is practical and efficient. All the rooms are an efficient size with no waste.”

The planning process began in spring 2019. Clearing of the land began in summer 2019, and they broke ground in fall 2019. The family moved in August 2020.

It all started with a staircase

While the Urshan home is a familyfriendly abode — which is the perfect setting for home schooling the kids, entertaining, and more — when it came down to it, the inspiration for the house all came down to a staircase.

“The staircase started out as a

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5191 Miller Trunk Hwy 218-729-5373 | Mon-Fri 9am-5pm

picture Justine gave to Heather and Ken,” Jordan shared. “They constructed the picture we gave them to a T.”

Hiner explained, “The client came to me with a few specific requests. They were drawn to the modern farmhouse style, wanted a family-friendly layout, and had a photo idea of an open-riser stair with a large feature window that they wanted to somehow incorporate. So, the design really started with the location and design of the stair, and worked its way out from there.”

Hiukka constructed the special staircase himself using distressed oak — sourced from the Tongue and Groove Store — which also features steel and cable railings. “It’s a really unique staircase,” Hiukka said. “And I take a lot of pride in the fact that I built it myself.”

Beyond that staircase, another important accommodation was the flow of the home. “We really wanted the flow of an open concept,” Justine shared. “It works well with kids, dogs, and entertaining.”

Striking exterior

After traveling the home’s lengthy driveway, visitors are greeted with a striking vision. The home, situated on an elevated piece of ground, is bright white, with crisp, black trim. Hiukka said the siding is constructed of seamless steel, featuring SmartSide trim around the windows.

The look and feel of the kitchen’s distressed black cabinets, woodlook flooring and white apron farmhouse sink counterbalance the modern touches of granite countertops and gold lighting, stools and hardware, creating the modern farmhouse vibe.

A matching pole barn, constructed by Sherman Buildings, is also part of the property. The 3,700-square-foot home also features a large attached garage, with a spacious bonus room above.

In addition to those lovely pine trees, the spacious parcel also features willow, birch, and mountain ash trees. Special, old-fashioned touches, such as a treehouse for the kids and a clothesline, make the property feel extra “homey.” Well-groomed trails surround the property — which are ideal for walking the family dogs, Sophie, a great dane, and Reagan, a golden retriever — as well as for four-wheeling and exploring with the kids.

Contractor Jay Peterson handled the excavation and construction of a rock wall, which consists of large rocks that were all native to the property. And a lovely stamped concrete back patio, constructed by Mark Hakala with Sisu Cement, is the perfect outdoor space for the entire family to congregate.

Interior

Hiner explained a bit about the home’s entry.

“Upon entering the home, the stair is adjacent to the foyer, and provides a definite ‘wow factor,’ seamlessly connecting the main floor kitchen/great room space with the upper level.

“The large custom kitchen and great room have large windows that stream southern sunlight and allow views and direct access to the patio and backyard,” she explained. “I love how the homeowner brought in their own unique style while still maintaining the modern farmhouse feel.

“While the main floor is dedicated to family-gathering areas and the owner’s suite, the upper level is meant to be the kids’ domain, complete with private bedrooms for each child, a homeschool classroom, playroom, and a guest suite.”

Lower level

The main floor consists of the great room (kitchen, dining, and living room combo), and the master suite, which includes a spacious en suite bathroom

with double sinks, and a walk-in closet. The master suite also features an inswing french door, providing direct access to the patio.

A powder room, home gym, pantry, mud room and laundry room round out the main level. A whimsical touch, which the Urshan children particularly enjoy, is a laundry chute.

Finishes

The home is outfitted in three colors: mindful grey, off-white, and iron ore — all Sherwin Williams shades. “We

wanted to use natural tones,” Justine said.

The home, which is heated and cooled with propane, features in-floor heat. The flooring is constructed of easy-care luxury vinyl planking, sourced and installed by Carlson Flooring of Superior.

The kitchen features the GE black slate appliance package, sourced from Johnson Mertz. Countertops throughout the home are all granite, in a variety of

ABOVE: The great room features a floor-to-ceiling bricksurround fireplace, vaulted ceilings with exposed beams, and enormous windows on two sides, flooding the space with natural light. RIGHT and BELOW: The “inspiration” staircase, located next to the front entry, features extra-wide steps on the bottom, and steel-and-cable construction instead of spindles.

shades and patterns.

The house combines pendant, recessed and undercabinet lighting. Two striking gold chandeliers, sourced from Ferguson, are hung tastefully in the great room and stairway landing. A custom dining room table was constructed by Cody Lackore with BiltFab. Hermantown Millwork provided the cabinetry, which features a distressed black finish.

A beautiful, natural brick surround is a lovely accompaniment to the fireplace, which is a natural congregation point for the family. “The great room features a beautiful brick fireplace, and wood beams in the ceiling,” Hiukka said. “The wood beams offer a lot of warmth.”

Upstairs

The upstairs of the Urshan home is a child’s delight. Immediately after cresting that gorgeous staircase, you enter the “classroom,” where Justine home-schools their children.

Justine has created a setting conducive to learning, with lockers for each child, a large classroom table, plenty of seating, and shelves and cubbies chock-full of learning materials.

“It’s such a great place for learning, arts and crafts, reading, etc.,” Justine said.

When it came to the children’s rooms, each child provided input.

“I let them each choose their themes,” Justine said. “Emmaline selected a princess/unicorn theme; Maeylin chose a neon theme, and Ezekiel has an old car/old toy theme.”

The girls share a “Jill and Jill” bathroom, which is conveniently situated between their bedrooms. And Ezekiel has his own bathroom, which is also utilized as a guest bath.

The Urshan children are very pleased with their new rooms.

“When I visited the home after completion,” Hiner shared, “each child took me by the hand and proudly showed off their bedroom, even dimming the lights to show me stars projected onto the ceiling.”

Faith

Home-schooling is of particular importance to the Urshan family, due in large part to their Christian faith.

“Faith is the core of who we are,” Jordan said. “With homeschooling, we can incorporate faith and Bible study into the day, and the kids can continue to grow in their faith.”

In fact, during the construction of their home, the family wrote Bible verses on some of the wooden beams before they were sheet-rocked.

“The kids each got to choose a verse. The verses are about protection, strength and being a good neighbor,” Justine said. “We know this is just our Earthly home, and this was a way for us to pray for our house as it was being built.”

Bonus room

Another special touch to the Urshan home is the bonus room located above the garage, where comfortable seating for the entire family makes an ideal location for movie night. The area also serves as a playroom for the children.

There is also an additional guest bedroom, which the family also uses for practicing their musical instruments. The Urshan daughters each play the violin, and Ezekiel is starting piano lessons. Jordan also plays guitar.

Views

Throughout the house, stellar views of the trees and spacious property are available from every room. “We didn’t want any room to feel ‘landlocked,’” Jordan said. “We wanted a nice view from every room.”

Additionally, the home’s window heights were intentionally elevated to capture and utilize plenty of natural light, and give the illusion of extra ceiling height.

Mission accomplished

The Urshan family couldn’t be happier to be settling into their new home. And their builders are happy with the end

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Kelsey Hiner Heather Hiner ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN INTERIOR

result, too.

“It’s always very satisfying for me to visit a home after completion and see the family enjoying their beautiful new home,” Hiner said.

“Jordan and Justine are really sweet people,” Hiukka added. “It was fun working with them.”

“I like the fact that we have our space, and have a lot of privacy. Our kids have lots of room to play,” Jordan said.

“I remember the first night we stayed here, and it felt like a dream,” Justine added. “It’s so calm, peaceful and relaxing. It just feels like home.” D

Andrea Busche is a Duluth freelance writer.

ABOVE: The “bonus room” is located above the attached garage and features comfortable seating and plenty of play space for the children to play or watch movies. There is also a connected guest bedroom. BELOW: A home gym and laundry room are located on the main level, which utilizes the same luxury vinyl plank flooring as the great room and kitchen.

Our favorite foods for the holidays

holidayeats

By Megan Keller The Woman Today

Old Fashioned & Simple: Turkey, Stuffing & Gravy

Ilearned this recipe from my mother, who learned it from my grandmother. This is a very simple recipe, so if you are a first-time turkey and stuffing maker, this is a great recipe to start with, not to mention it's sort of timeless.

What you will need:

2-3 cups celery

1 onion

2 green apples

Salt Pepper

Poultry seasoning

Ground sage

Flour

15-pound turkey

8 slices each of white and wheat bread

1 stick butter, softened; divided

Chicken stock

Turkey oven bag

Step One - Make the stuffing

1. Cut bread into cubes and place onto two baking sheets. Bake at 350

degrees for 5 minutes. Watch carefully as they can burn quickly. I do not season, butter or spray the pans. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for at least 30 minutes. You want them to have a crispy, dry feel to them. While these are cooling you can prep the rest of the stuffing.

2. Cut up celery, onion and apples into small pieces.

3. Melt ½ stick of butter in a large frying pan, add celery and onion, and saute on medium heat for 5-8 minutes. Add a generous amount of poultry seasoning, ground sage,

salt and pepper. (My mother always said, “If you think you added too much seasoning, add more!” It will be worth having it very flavorful.) Once cooked, add your apples and cook for about 5 minutes.

4. In a large bowl, add dried bread cubes. Add the celery/onion/apple mixture and stir together. Add chicken stock, up to 2 cups. You will want the stuffing pieces saturated, so you may use more than 2 cups. Set aside.

Step two - Prep and cook the turkey

The turkey is raw, so be very careful to keep all surfaces clean after handling, and wash hands thoroughly. Your bird needs to be fully thawed, which takes a number of days sitting in the fridge, based on how big your turkey is. Remove the turkey from the packaging, and make sure giblets are removed (usually packaged inside the bird).

1. Rinse turkey thoroughly in the sink and pat dry with paper towels, carefully, so you don’t leave paper towel debris on the turkey. Now, it's time to stuff the turkey.

2. Get spoonfuls of stuffing and fill the cavity of the bird, being careful not to pack it too tightly. You will also pack stuffing into the neck area of the bird. You won’t use all your stuffing, so take the remaining stuffing and place into a greased casserole dish with a lid and cook at 350 degrees for 30-40 minutes.

3. Rub ½ stick of softened butter thoroughly all over the outside of the bird. I use my hands for this but you may want to have rubber gloves on. Once the bird is fully buttered up, sprinkle with salt, pepper, ground sage and poultry seasoning, all over the bird. Place into an oven bag (make sure to add flour in the oven bag per the instructions), seal up with the tie that comes with it, cut slits over the top of the bag, and place into a large roasting pan (mine was 13-quart size). The cooking bag

will come with instructions for oven temperature based on how much your turkey weighs and if it is stuffed or not. The turkey I used was 15 pounds and it took 3 hours to cook on the conventional roast setting.

4. When your turkey is done, remove from the bag and set on a large cookie sheet with sides (juices will run out of it); let rest for about 10-15 minutes.

5. While the turkey is resting, transfer the remaining juices from the roasting pan into a stove pot to make the gravy (see below).

6. Remove the stuffing from the turkey and place into a bowl, which can be served with the stuffing that was baking in the oven for the past 30-40 minutes. Once the stuffing is

removed, you can carve the turkey into slices. I recommend YouTube for some great how-to videos for beginners. Or, you can wing it and just try yourself. Just be careful not to cut yourself or cut into bones on the bird.

Step three - Make the gravy

I am going to admit, gravy has never been my strong suit. It always turns out to be lumpy. Tastes great, but lumpy, and some do not care for that! My husband, who used to be a chef back in the day, helped me with the gravy. I used a roux, which is an equal combination (by volume) of melted butter and flour. Heat the turkey stock (leftover juices from the pan) to boiling, then add a little bit of the roux at a time until your desired thickness — and whisk like crazy!

This is one of those recipes that you will learn to make time and time again and add your own touches. I hope you enjoy it as much as my family has for generations.

Things to remember: Always thoroughly wash your hands and clean all your surfaces with disinfectant after the turkey has touched anything. Additionally, if you have pets, do not feed your pet any bones from the turkey. Properly dispose of the carcass when you're done with it where your pets will not have access to it. D

By Kim Quinones

The Woman Today

Holiday Gathering Radish Dip/Spread

Ingredients

(1) 8 oz package of cream cheese, softened

(4) Radishes, tops removed and quartered

(2) Cloves garlic, peeled Dash of freshly ground black pepper

Dash of salt

Equipment

Food processor or chopper

Knife suitable for slicing/chopping vegetables

Small spatula for scraping out food processor bowl

Place garlic cloves in a food processor/ chopper bowl and pulse until finely chopped. Add radishes into the processor/chopper bowl alongside the garlic and pulse until the radishes are finely chopped. Add the softened cream cheese to the bowl and blend the works until well combined.

Use the spatula to place dip into a serving bowl. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes.

Great spread on cocktail bread with thinly sliced vegetables, cheese or nuts as toppings. This recipe makes enough to spread 30-40 cocktail bread slices. Rye or Pumpernickel are hearty and

hold toppings well.

Or, serve as a dip alongside a variety of crackers and/or vegetables. This recipe can easily be doubled.

Enjoy!

Adapted from Radish Dip on Allrecipes

By Julie Schulz The Woman Today

Bacon-Wrapped Green Beans

I’ve made this side dish many times, and one year I didn’t have oven space, so I developed a stovetop version, which yielded the same great taste, just without the fancy presentation. I’ve also used this with asparagus instead of beans. You can tailor the quantities to your needs … sometimes I just make 4-6 bundles to serve 2 people, so I just cut down on the butter/brown sugar. Enjoy!

Ingredients

1 pound whole green beans, fresh or frozen (no need to defrost)

4-5 slices of bacon, each cut in half

3 Tablespoons butter, melted ¼ cup brown sugar 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Oven Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees

2. Wrap 7-10 whole green beans with a half-slice of bacon, secure with a toothpick, and place in a 9x13 dish. Repeat with remaining beans and bacon.

3. Combine melted butter and brown sugar and pour over green bean bundles, then sprinkle with garlic powder. (Hint: I feel the butter and brown sugar is too thick to “pour,” so I usually pour the melted butter over the beans, then sprinkle the

brown sugar, then sprinkle the garlic powder).

4. Bake uncovered for 45 minutes, until bacon crisps (or, sometimes I broil it at the end to speed it up).

Stovetop Instructions

1. Cut beans and bacon into 1-inch pieces.

2. In a cast iron skillet, cook bacon pieces about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add beans and saute until cooked through.

3. Omit butter and simply sprinkle brown sugar and garlic powder over the beans, stirring to blend and caramelize.

By Renae Ronquist

The Woman Today

Possum Pie

Thisinterestingly named pie has become our families very favorite for the holidays. The name of this pie may not sound too appealing, but once you try it. It will be in your life forever. It was aquired while living in Arkansas. Let me tell you, those Arkansans know how to make good food!

I hope you enjoy it as much as we do.

Ingredients

½ cup powered sugar

4 oz. cream cheese, softened

1 box vanilla instant pudding mix*

1 box chocolate instant pudding mix*

2 ½ cups milk

1 cup heavy whipping cream

2 tablespoons sugar

Pecan halves

¼ cup pecans chopped fine 1 9-inch baked pie shell**

Directions

1. Cream together powdered sugar and cream cheese. Set aside.

2. Mix vanilla and chocolate pudding mixes with milk. 1 ¼ cup in each pudding mix.

3. Whip cream until stiff peaks. Add the sugar to the whipped cream.

4. Spread cream cheese mixture on the bottom of the cooled pie crust.

5. Sprinkle the chopped pecan on top of cream cheese mixture.

6. Layer chocolate pudding mixture on cream cheese and chopped pecans.

7. Layer vanilla pudding mixture on top of chocolate pudding.

8. Layer whipped cream topping on top of the chocolate pudding mixture.

9. Lastly add a few pecan halves on the top. I like to make sure every piece gets a pecan halve.

* 3.4 oz. box pudding mix

** I use store bought pie shells, but you can use your own homemade pie shell. If you use homemade, you can roll out your crust on top of the chopped pecan instead of sprinkling on top of the cream cheese layer.

By Ali Carlson

The Woman Today

Pumpkin Cookies

Cookie Ingredients

1 cup butter (2 sticks)

1 cup shortening

1 cup brown sugar

1 cup white sugar

1 15-ounce can of pumpkin

2 eggs

2 teaspoons vanilla

4 ½ c flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

2 teaspoons baking soda

1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon

Dash of salt

1 cup raisins (if desired)

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter, shortening and sugar.

2. Add pumpkin and blend.

3. Add eggs and vanilla and blend.

4. Combine all dry ingredients and then slowly incorporate them into the other mixture.

5. Bake on a greased cookie sheet for 10 minutes at 350 degrees.

Frosting Ingredients

6 Tablespoons butter

6 Tablespoons milk

1 cup brown sugar

Roughly 1/3 bag powdered sugar

Directions

1. Combine butter, milk and brown sugar in a pot; melt over low heat.

2. Boil gently for 2 minutes over low/ medium heat, stirring gently.

3. Remove from heat — do not continue stirring.

4. Cool completely.

5. Add powdered sugar until frosting reaches desired consistency.