Girlfriends holiday 2014

Believe

IN THE SEASON

girlfriends Southern Minnesota’s Leading Women’s Magazine

HOLIDAY ISSUE 2014 |

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HOLIDAY 2014

You are

Mankato.

We are Mankato’s clinic.

You make this region strong. Because you know what matters most— family, friends, community. It’s who you are. And it runs generations deep here.

It’s who we are too. We are Mankato’s clinic. Committed to the health of this region. Dedicated to caring for you and your family for generations.

➜ mankatoclinic.com

MANK15_River_Valley_Woman_mag_ad.indd 1

8/8/14 9:03 AM

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hat I am grateful for this Christmas:

Lauran Rott

FROM THE PUBLISHER

• An incredibly loving and understanding husband who tries his best to be completely involved in his children’s lives.

• A daughter that is so smart, articulate and has such a deep, beautiful soul that I wonder what I did to deserve her.

• A son with a sense of humor to melt my heart and make me laugh every day.

• Friends that somehow just know when to send that note of encouragement and that I can share those completely inappropriate private jokes with.

• Sisters that provide a Vodka Pellegrino at a moment’s notice and listen to me vent (Don’t worry, Kristen and Nellie—I know you would too if you lived closer!).

• Family that forgives me of my faults and reminds me daily to strive and be a better person.

• Remembering my father’s face mid laugh.

• Knowing that my mother misses him, but has grown so incredibly strong on her own.

• Looking at the snow and knowing how truly magical it is to watch my children have a snowball fight, or sled down the big hill while screaming with laughter.

• Hot cocoa with marshmallows to keep me warm (ok, maybe there’s a bit of peppermint schnapps in there. Just a snip.)

• Listening to Nat King Cole sing the Christmas Song.

• My children finally being the age where they also want to sleep in on Christmas morning.

Here is my wish for you this holiday season: Be thankful. Be grateful. Be hopeful. Help others who cannot be helped. Forgive quickly. Most importantly, though, LOVE. Just love.

— Lauran Rott is the pubisher of Girlfriends magazine.

Lauran

Find Girlfriends on Facebook Watch for our BRIDAL edition coming in January! This will be one issue you won’t want to miss!

ON THE COVER: }

Believe in the Season

Brother and sister Colten and Khaleesi are our angelic models for this year’s holiday issue. Their pround mother is multimedia consultant Shawnea Hull.

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contents

THE HOLIDAY ISSUE 2014

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girlfriends

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About Us Volume 6, Issue 6

Copyright © Girlfriends 2014 Published November 2014 by: Southern Minn Media 115 W 5th Street Northfield, MN 55057 507-645-1110

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Send releases and story ideas to:

Brenda K.M. Ward at Girlfriends magazine, bward@southernminn.com Publisher:

Lauran Rott Editor & Senior Writer:

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Brenda K.M. Ward

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Contributing Writers:

Christine Bernier Lienke Kari Berit Rachel Minske Multimedia Consultants:

Steve Arnold Kristie Biehn Kathleen Davies Carly Dabroski Alisha Davidson Kari Dougherty Lisa Dwyer Debbie Ensley Betty Frost Shawnea Hull Kacie Karels Joan Koester Terri Lenz Mark Nelson Catherine Olson Mary Phipps Lauran Rott Jennifer Sorenson Gayle Stelten David Weeks

Features

Accessories

Volunteering bonds two friends for life | 6

FROM THE PUBLISHER | 3 From the Kitchen | 21 GIRLFRIENDS GUIDE | 45 Unexpected Caregiver | 42 WE TIME | 17

Not only do friends who play together stay together, but these two special friends prove that volunteering together makes them stronger still.

In keeping with traditions | 12 Celebrating the holidays with family, friends, food and libation.

profile: Savannah stuckmayer | 22 Ambitious, talented, dynamic: Words that only scratch the surface in describing singer Savannah... Plus, we hear from “The Voice” contestant Justyn Dow.

Winter beauty mistakes to avoid | 26 Winter weather may require revamping your normal health and beauty routine.

Great gifts for the family foodie | 30 Tips when gifting the family foodie.

how to gift the people who aren’t family | 32

Graphic Designer:

Kate Townsend-Noet

What to get those people who aren’t close friends or family members.

Ad Designers:

Mary Jo Blanchard Nicole Gilmore Naomi Kissling Keeley Krebsbach Jenine Kubista Kelly Kubista Kate McGillen Kayla McMullen Jennifer Schoenbauer

Great expectations | 34 Traditional or alternative birth: What’s the right option for you?

Keep calm and carry on | 38 How to stay at ease during the hectic holidays.

JUST FOOD COLUMN | 40 Ferndale turkey: Just part of the family.

Photographer:

Brooke Schroht

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Sharing Your Journey The highly trained OB/GYNs at the Women’s Health Center offer supportive and comprehensive care as you walk through life. : Christine Braun, MD : Melanie Dixon, MD

: Dana Olson, MD : Deborah Suppes, MD

Women’s Health Center physicians see patients at our clinic on the Northfield Hospital campus. Call 507-646-1478 for an appointment.

US T WITH CONNEC

Your Care Is Our Specialty

507-646-1478 : NorthfieldHospital.org/WomensHealthCenter 2000 North Avenue, Northfield

Our dental office gives you every reason to smile!

Dr. John Noack, Dr. Brian Kraby, Dr. Becky Johnson & Dr. Jerome Appeldoorn

New patients -

Receive free Professional Strength Crest White Strips at your initial examination.

Please mention this ad when scheduling your first appointment.

600 Professional Dr., Northfield 507-645-5264

professionaldrivedental.com

Valued at $55 HOLIDAY ISSUE 2014 |

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bonds

By Christine Bernier Lienke

ot only do friends who play together stay together, but these two special friends prove that volunteering together makes them stronger still.

Wendi Hansen began volunteering at Waseca County’s Santa Anonymous program more than 25 years ago, and she invited her close friend of 19 years, Beth Krause, to join her in 2002. Today, Wendi and Beth manage the program’s gift purchasing and giving, spreading holiday joy to many families in the county.

Santa Anonymous is a countywide program serving the communities of Waseca, New Richland, Janesville and Waldorf. The program allows families with children ages infant to 18 years old access to Christmas gifts they may not otherwise be able to provide for their children.

Designed for families based on income guidelines, the program offers a variety of gift giving options and serves 300 to 400 children throughout Waseca County every year.

With their love and desire to support the Santa Anonymous program, both Beth and Wendi begin preparations for the giving season on Black Friday when they

shop until they drop on behalf of the applicants in the program. Using raised funds and donations, they shop at stores in Waseca.

The two have been seen leaving a local store with 10 grocery carts stacked full of gifts and useful items for children. Once the items are purchased, Wendi and Beth begin the process of setting aside the items that were specifically requested and then begin setting up the holiday shop.

Preparations for the seasonal event begin one year prior with the annual Santa Anonymous Auction held at Waseca’s BoxCar Bar where donated items are auctioned to raise funds and donations

are collected for the program.

Each year the auction event takes place the first Saturday following Thanksgiving, raising thousands to support the program in the next holiday season.

Not only is the annual fundraiser key, the program also relies on generous donations from the community and local business owners.

The Waseca Area Neighborhood Service Center accepts donations from individuals and companies throughout the year and also while the program is underway to use during the giving season.

“One of the items that we like to give is warm mittens and gloves to teenage boys and girls, because they tend uuu

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also welcome donations of batteries, because we give batteries with each item that requires them so this isn’t a financial burden for the families.”

Many volunteers support the program, including

a Waseca-based quilting group that sews and donates quilts for each family. Another dedicated volunteer has taken on the book section to find and select age-appropriate books for the children. Volunteers in the Santa Anonymous program take great pride in the fact that no used items are distributed and only new items are made available.

Volunteers also take pride in closely protecting the privacy and the anonymity of those in need.

Both Beth and Wendi take time away from their responsibilities each year, including farming businesses and Beth’s Grace Anatomy pain relief clinic, to manage this philanthropic endeavor. For nearly five full weeks, the pair spends more than eight hours a day shopping, sorting, setting up the shop and assisting applicants with their private appointments for gift selection. onymous. ating Santa An cre s “The total volunteer hours we serve are irrelevant to ce for n joi e of Waseca and Beth Kraus us,” says Beth. “We do it because we love the people that Wendi Hansen come through, and it’s such a blessing and we feel we’re called to to help with shoveling and other outdoor family activities,” says serve others. The relief we see on the parents’ faces is priceless when Wendi. “Buying a quality pair of warm insulated gloves can take a they come through to select their children’s gifts. You can see that a bite out of our budget, and we’ve been fortunate to have those items huge burden has been lifted from them.” donated, but we’re always in need of donations of warm outdoor Christine Bernier Lienke is a professional writer and editor based in Northfield. coats and gloves in the adult size ranges that will fit teenagers. We

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Ready to serve?

If Beth and Wendi’s story inspired you, here are some service projects that need your help over the holidays:

t

Waseca Area Neighborhood Service Center Offers resources for people who want to improve their lives, including Santa Anonymous and holiday food baskets.

Information: wasecaunitedway.org/waseca_ area_neighborhood_service.

Toys for Tots Donate new toys to the Toys for Tots. Find the location nearest you at toysfortots.org.

Northfield Food Shelf Since 1985, the Food Shelf has provided food each month for people in need. Currently, over 38,000 pounds of food is distributed each month to about 475 local families. Information: communityactioncenter.org/programs/ feeding/foodshelf.

Owatonna Volunteer Opportunities

ie s u S Santa Anonymous: How to participate The Santa Anonymous program is designed to assist families with children from infants through 18 years old living in Waseca County by providing Christmas gifts, games, books, hats, coats, gloves and donated items such as quilts.

When families fill out the application to participate in the program, they can identify items they’d like for their children within a specified price range, choose to have items selected for their children by volunteers, or make a private appointment at the Santa Anonymous shop and select the items themselves. Another available option is that area organizations, such as the Cub Scouts, can adopt families in the program and shop for them after receiving an anonymous shopping list. Once all the applications are received, the volunteering duo gets busy sorting the gift needs by age group and start shopping for the items listed.

Applications are available at the Waseca Area Neighborhood Service Center at 203 Third Ave. N.W. Waseca. For more information on the Santa Anonymous program, contact the center at 507-833-4119 or email info@ wansc.org.

?

Find a variety of weekly, monthly and seasonal volunteer opportunities at ci.owatonna. mn.us/parksrecreation/seniorplace/volunteer-opportunities.

Northfield Hospital and Clinics Volunteers with Northfield Hospital have fun, meet interesting people, obtain career-related experience, and leave a lasting impression on patients and residents.

Information: northfieldhospital.org/about/ volunteer.

Le Sueur and Waseca County volunteer opportunities Volunteers over the age of 55 can serve through Common Good Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) in LeSueur and Waseca counties. Information: ccwinona. org/programs/rsvp.

Feed My Starving Children Feed My Starving Children is a nonprofit Christian organization committed to feeding hungry children in body and spirit. The approach is simple: Children and adults hand-pack meals specifically formulated for malnourished children, and meals are shipped to nearly 70 countries around the world. Information: fmsc.org.

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Holiday

it

Gifts

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1 Fashion Boots

Stocking Stuffers

Just a snippet of our most popular stocking stuffers: Japanese puzzle erasers, Smencils, multi-colored pencils, Totoro charms, and soooo many buttons.

All these and more fun gifts under $3!

The Sketchy Artist, Downtown Northfield, thesketchyartist.com Erasers $1.25, Smencils $2.00, pencils $1.50, charms $2.75, buttons starting at $1.35.

Winter Boots

2 Shooties

4

SMARTWOOL Apparel

Smartwool is perfect for the gift-giving season. It offers premium quality merino wool and is sure to keep you comfortable. Available in men’s and women’s.

Owatonna Shoe, 121 N Cedar Ave., Owatonna, Owatonnashoe.com

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HAND-ROLLED CANDIES

Costas has been making hand-rolled candies for over 90 years. Every piece of quality chocolate and candy is hand-dipped, rolled, and wrapped. Costas boxed chocolates make excellent gifts for the holidays. Call or stop by today to pick up a box of Costas’ decadent chocolates for your family and friends to enjoy!

Costas Candies and Restaurant, 112 N Cedar Ave. Owatonna, coastas-candies.com, 507-451-9050 Like us on Facebook!

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BOOTS FOR ALL OCCASIONS

Shooties - Shoe Boot by Clarks Fashion Boots - Dress Boot by Cobb Hill Winter Boots - New Style from Uggs We carry over 50 styles of boots!

Burkhartzmeyer Shoes, Downtown Faribault, 507-334-7774 burkhartzmeyershoes.com. Like us on Facebook!

Boot Sale Now In Progress.

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HOLIDAY PARTY PLANNING

Cupcakes, donuts, pies, or other treats are perfect for holiday gatherings. Make your day perfect with The Perfect Day Cakes & Bakery.

Perfect Day Cakes, 324 N Cedar, Owatonna, perfectdaycakes.com, 507-455-2253 Find us on Facebook!

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KITS IN A CAN for kids

“A big sense of achievement in a little can” Did you know we have “Hip Handmade items for Kids too!”

We offer a Wide Variety of Kits, Creative projects for all ages as well as a Artisan pieces unique gifts.

Full Service bead shop to look around in.

Eclectic Goat, 413 Division St. S, Northfield, 507-645-0301 eclecticgoatnorthfield.com, glassgardenbeads.com $10.00 from Faber castell - USA

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In keeping with

tradition Celebrating the holidays with family, friends, food and libation

By Brenda K.M. Ward

H

olidays are designed for tradition. For some that means games and gift-giving, while for others it is an opportunity to welcome into their homes those in need. But for most everyone, holiday gatherings include food and drink, and whether your table is a delectable spread of European cuisine or comfort food hot from Grandma’s oven, it’s all about enjoying it with those who surround you.

Several years ago, Stacy Murphy’s dad and his brothers began a Thanksgiving tradition that takes place before the turkey and green beans are served. On Thanksgiving morning, the brothers and their families meet at Grandpa Al’s bar and grill in Faribault to begin the celebration with Tom and Jerry’s before heading off to their individual family gatherings. It is a custom that has carried on through the years and continues to grow as young adults in the family turn “of age.”

“It’s one time of the year where we can all get together like we did at Grandma’s as kids,” said Stacy.

More recently, the family has added another tradition of preceding their gathering at Grandpa Al’s with taking part in the IRIS Turkey Trot in memory of the passing of Stacy’s niece.

Also using Thanksgiving morning to celebrate is Kathy Sather along with family and friends. Around 20 years ago, Kathy’s parents and a group of their friends began their day together at 9 a.m. for a breakfast of egg bakes, fruits, breads and homemade sausage, served with a side of bloody Marys, screwdrivers and Bailey’s coffee drinks.

After the celebration of gratitude for friends, they join their family gatherings.

We asked our readers to share some of their traditional holiday foods and found favorites ranging from generations old ethnic dishes to Midwestern favorites.

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olly Larsen’s Scandinavian family enjoys the Norwegian specialty of lefse at most all holiday gatherings. This traditional lefse recipe made by her grandmother, Shirley Allers, and mother, Nancy Larsen, has been a family favorite for generations.

Lefse Ingredients: 10 cups mashed, riced potatoes 1 cup butter 1 tablespoon sugar 3 teaspoons salt ½ cup whipping cream 4 cups flour Directions: Mix together all ingredients except flour. When cooled, add the flour and form into balls. Roll into thin sheets and bake on a hot lefse iron, turning when brown bubbles begin to form. Cool on a rack between two bath towels to keep it moist.

Lefse is enjoyed best rolled up with a simple smear of butter and sprinkle of brown sugar.

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am and Curwin Gett’s family celebrates Christmas Eve with savory Italian Wedding Soup anchoring the meal. This family recipe was given to Sam’s grandmother when she joined the Sicilian Gett family and was eventually passed along to Curwin after she and Sam were married.

Italian Wedding Soup (Makes 6-8 servings) Soup Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1 cup chopped onion

“Food, in the end, in our own tradition, is something holy. It’s not about nutrients and calories. It’s about sharing. It’s about honesty. It’s about identity.”

– Louise Fresco

1 cup diced celery (1/4- inch pieces) 1 cup diced carrots (1/4-inch pieces) ½ cup dry white wine (optional) 2 32-ounce containers chicken stock 3-4 medium, baked and shredded chicken breasts: (Brush skinless, boneless chicken breasts with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper and poultry seasoning. Bake at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes until cooked and lightly browned. When cooled, shred with a fork.)

1 10-ounce container frozen spinach or 1 8-12 ounce container fresh spinach, washed and chopped ¼ -½ cup chopped fresh parsley Salt and pepper 8 ounces (uncooked) small pasta (ditalini or small shells) 2-3 dozen meatballs – use frozen, prepared small, Italian style meatballs or prepare the meatball recipe that follows.

Directions: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, celery and carrots and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. If desired, deglaze the pan with the white wine. Add the chicken stock, shredded chicken breasts and meatballs. Bring to a boil. Add spinach and simmer for 1-2 minutes until cooked. Add parsley and salt and pepper to taste. Prepare pasta “al dente” according to package directions and set aside. Just before serving, add the cooked pasta to the soup, and simmer to warm through.

Meatball ingredients: 1 pound ground beef 1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley or ¼ cup dried parsley flakes 1 teaspoon minced garlic ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese 1 large egg ½ cup Italian breadcrumbs 1 teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon pepper Directions: Gently combine the ingredients. Shape into 1-inch meatballs and place on a greased baking sheet. Bake for 30 minutes at 350 degrees until cooked through and lightly browned.

“Nothing says holidays, like a cheese log.”

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or as long as Mary Phipps can remember, her mother served Photo courtesy of Fiveandspice.com. a Christmas Eve dinner of oyster stew along with homemade bread cubes dipped in cheese fondue and pickled herring on the side. Both of Mary’s parents have passed on, but when the Phipps family gathers during Christmastime, they bring back the tradition of what has lovingly become known as Mom Clark’s Oyster Stew.

Mom Clark’s Oyster Stew

Ingredients: (Makes 2 servings – multiply as needed) 1 8-ounce can of oysters, with broth 1 cup milk 1 tablespoon butter Salt and freshly ground pepper Directions: Heat the oysters and broth until just hot. (Do not boil.) Add salt and pepper to taste. In another pot, slowly heat the milk and butter until the butter is melted. Add the hot oysters and broth to the milk, and heat for five minutes until the flavors are incorporated.

Serve with oyster crackers.

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hat would a Midwestern holiday be without a cheese ball?

Those in Kim Hyatt’s family anticipate this simple, but delicious hors d’oeuvre served during their family holiday gatherings.

Cheese Ball

“You don’t need a silver fork to eat good food.”

Ingredients: 2 8-ounce packages cream cheese, softened 8 ounces grated cheddar cheese 4 ounces crumbled blue cheese ¼ cup diced onion 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce – Paul Prudhomme Cracked pepper Chopped walnuts Directions: Combine the cheeses together and add the remaining ingredients except for the walnuts. Combine thoroughly and form into a ball.

Roll the ball in chopped walnuts, cover and chill well before serving.

– Ellen DeGeneres HOLIDAY ISSUE 2014 |

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exploreOwatonna Dream

Happy Holidays From

Day

BRIDALS by Monica Experience the

only intimate bridal salon

in Owatonna

Wedding Gowns Bridesmaid Dresses Mother of the Bride/Groom Dresses Flower Girl Dresses Tuxedos Prom Dresses Winter Formal Dresses Cocktail Dresses Quinceañera Dresses Wedding Accessories

Candy made fresh daily!

Guaranteed fresh and delicious!

Toffee • Nut Rolls • Turtles

Caramels • Fudge • And more!

curlygirlzcandy.com In the Medford Outlet Center!

507-451-3396

634 W Bridge St. Owatonna, MN 507-413-6160 www.ddbridals.com Hours: WEDNESDAY-FRIDAY: 5-8 PM SATURDAY: 10 AM-5 PM SUNDAY:1-5 PM

Kottke Jewelers 20% of Sarah’s Hope® purchases go to the Big Brothers/Big Sisters.

chase $5 Off Pur ore! of $25 olidrthroMugh 12/31/14 Offer va

1045 W Frontage Rd, Owatonna 507-455-8568 • andiamomn.com 14

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HELP US HELP BIG BROTHERS/BIG SISTERS

From now til the end of December, make your gift really matter to those in need. With each purchase of Sarah’s Hope® Jewelry, you’ll not only help impoverished women throughout the USA and the world achieve their dreams of small business ownership - but our store will make an additional donation to the Big Brothers Big Sisters. It’s a gorgeous gift that reflects the true beauty of the season.

Don’t just give, give back.

Famous For Diamonds For Over 95 Years

115 North Cedar, Owatonna • 451-6644 M-F 9:00-5:00; Sat 9:00-Noon

314 North Cedar Ave. Owatonna Stop in!

We Have Everything for your Holiday Decorating Needs!

M-F: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM • SAT: 9 AM -3 PM 507-451-7673

Look for the Pink Tulip Flag by Nick’s Pizza!

Think of us for your holiday plans!

Time to KICK BUTT! Easy as 1-2-3 Hotel & Suites

Owatonna Time to1 Week KICK BUTT!

245 Florence Ave Owatonna, MN 507-455-1142 www.americinn.com

AmericInn Hotel & Suites Owatonna Conference Center 245 Florence Avenue | Owatonna, MN 55060

Easy 1 Week

NOW OPEN! 369 18th St SE, Owatonna next to sparetime entertainment Margaritas

& Beer:

2 for 1 happy hour: Mon-Thurs: 3-7 pm

507-413-6235

Mon-thurs 11-10 • Fri & Sat 11-10:30 • Sun 11-9

Give The Gift of Health 2 Supplements asThis 1-2-3 Holiday Season!

Your health affects everything

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• Sports Certified • Spinal Decompression • Massage Weight Loss • Detox Programs • Low Level Laser • Thermography

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Body Massage • Facials • Pedicures Manicures • Shampoo/Style Make-up Application

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Bella Natural Health Vita Clinic Salon DOW CHIROPRACTIC Natural Health Clinic

10-8 MON-SAT 11-6 SUN 507-451-3500 DOW CHIROPRACTIC 507.451.1691 152 East Pearl•Street • dowchiro.com • 507.451.1691 152Street East• Pearl St. Owatonna 6750 WEST FRONTAGE ROAD MEDFORD, MN 55060 507.451.1691 • 152 East Pearl • dowchiro.com

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(LOCATED IN THE MEDFORD OUTLET CENTER)

Salon & Spa Package

1293 21st Ave, NW Owatonna 507-451-2741 www.sistersalon.net

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exploreWaseca Please join us at

Compliments of the Box Car Bar Help make a difference for a child by donating an auction item, door prize, cash donation, or join in the fun by attending the auction. Donations accepted at the Box Car Bar or the Waseca Area Neighborhood Service Center.

Thursday, November 20th 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

20% off Aveda & Dermalogica products!

10% off Gift Certificates 1-Day Only Sale!

10/10/14 9:37 AM

10/10/14 9:37 AM

329 N State St., Waseca

507-833-9333

OD

NTER WA CE

GHBORHO EI

CA AREA N SE

SERVICE

Happy Holidays from Nicollet County Bank

Please join us for our

The Staff of Nicollet County Bank

Holiday Open House

Friday, December 12th • 2-4 pm 220 South Third Street St. Peter · 931-3310 www.nicolletcountybank.com Like us on Facebook!

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We Time

Complete your shopping list at

H

and-crafted goods make wonderful gifts, but if your head throbs at the thought of finding time to summon your inner creative guru, you may want to rely on the skills of area artisans. There are oodles of talented folks just down the road who make gift giving as easy as a girlfriends outing to holiday craft sales.

What’s more, your dollars spent at many of these sales also benefit community organizations. In Northfield, for example, the custodial department of Carleton College hosts the annual Carleton Craft Fair and Custodial Bake Sale raising money for the Custodial Scholarship Fund.

Throughout the year more than three-quarters of the custodial staff donates a portion of their paycheck to this scholarship fund; the annual craft sale supplements it to help students in need achieve a quality college education.

We’ve included a few ideas to get you started on your shopping. If you’d like to share a favorite craft sale, simply visit Girlfriends magazine on Facebook and let us know.

Faribault Holiday Arts and Crafts Fair – Held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Nov. 22 at the Knights of Columbus, 17 N.E. Third St. Craft and Vendor Shows – Held during mall hours Nov. 28, Dec. 6-7 and Dec. 20-21 at the Faribault West Mall

Waseca A Touch of Country Class Boutique – Held from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Nov. 20-23, Nov. 28-30 and Dec. 4-7 at 41830 150th St.

Le Sueur Christmas Boutique – Held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 6 at the Valleygreen Square Mall.

Northfield Fine Craft Collective – A holiday pop-up boutique open daily through Dec. 24 at the Northfield Arts Guild Gallery, 304 Division St. S. Carleton Craft Fair and Custodial Bake Sale – Held from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 5 at the Weitz Center for Creativity, 320 3rd St. E.

Owatonna Merry Market – Held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 6 at the Eagles Club, 141 Rose St. E.

OPEN IN D Y G NOV A 18TH

GREENHOUSE

Holiday Open House November 21, 22 & 23 Holiday Design Seminar Friday, November 21 10:00 am Design Specialist, Tracy Pomeroy will share what’s new in Holiday decorating for 2014. Tracy is known in the industry for her creative style and eye for design.

She is also known for her quick tricks that add Holiday Flair easily! Bring your notebook, camera and a friend and be our guest for the best holiday design seminar of the season.

FREE COFFEE & COOKIES During Open House!

REGISTER FOR PRIZES! DONAHUE’S GREENHOUSE GIFT CERTIFICATES Make the perfect holiday gift!

420 10 Street SW, Faribault 507.334.7156

Store hours beginning November 18 Mon-Sat 8:30-5:00, Sun 11:00-5:00 donahuesgreenhouse.com

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W

e embrace our friendships every day, but the holidays are the perfect time to celebrate in good cheer. Happy Holidays from Girlfriends to you!

Girlfriends magazine welcomes you to share your friendship stories for consideration in our next issue. Simply send a photo and short description of what makes your friendship endearing to Editor Brenda Ward at bward@ southernminn.com. Here’s to you!

Sara Born, Amy Vincelli, Lisa Korbel, Melissa Mortensen – Owatonna Clearly these ladies all got the memo to wear their ugly Christmas sweaters.

Go girls!

Sara, Amy, Lisa & Melissa

DESIGNER LOOKS Open now at roundbank.com Waseca Waldorf Farmington New Prague

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507-835-4220, 200 2nd Street NE 507-239-2166, 102 South Main 651-463-8300, 3380 Vermillion River Trail 952-758-BANK (2265), 1100 1st Street NE

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Distinctive eyewear is in your sight!

CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT: 507.645.9202

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You and your baby

’Tis the Season ...

The holidays are all about friends and family, and so are we!

Northfield Retirement Community is a vibrant place full of laughter, energy and activity – especially this time of year!

The most important members of our team Our team of physicians and nurse practitioners provide specialized care for you before, during and after your pregnancy. We offer comprehensive services to ensure you and your baby receive the care you need, when you need it, close to home.

From the giggle of visiting grandchildren to the holiday songs we all know, NRC is filled with the sounds of joy. Come visit our NRC family! We’re confident that this is the community for your family, too!

For more information, visit northfieldretirement.org or call 507-664-3466.

Resident Joyce Schrader with staff member Erica Minnehan’s children, Zaria and Silas.

Call us today to schedule an appointment.

Mayo Clinic Health System in Waseca 1-877-412-7575 (toll-free) Mayo Clinic Health System in Faribault 507-333-3300 Mayo Clinic Health System in Owatonna 507-451-1120

mayoclinichealthsystem.org

Find us on Facebook

507-664-3466 • www.northfieldretirement.org Northfield Retirement Community is an Equal Opportunity Provider.

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From The Kitchen

Café Chocolate Recipe courtesy of Tim Ristow, general manager of Timber Lodge Steakhouse, Owatonna

Add to a favorite mug one-half ounce each of: Kahlua coffee liqueur Bailey’s Irish cream Creme de cacao chocolate liqueur Grand Marnier orange flavored cognac Chocolate flavored syrup Top it off with coffee and add a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

Coffee and liqueur combined together in one fabulous drink... Café Chocolate is a warm, inviting drink making it a perfect winter celebration cocktail while gathered around the fireplace with family and friends. And, it’s as simple as brewing a pot of freshly ground coffee and having a few favorite liqueurs on hand.

Timber Lodge Steakhouse is located at 4455 W. Frontage Road in Owatonna. Visit online at timberlodgeowatonna.com, or better yet in person between the hours of 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

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Savannah

Stuckmayer

By Brenda K.M. Ward

A

mbitious, talented, dynamic: These few yet significant words merely scratch the surface when describing Savannah Stuckmayer, a Dundas native who is currently a sophomore at Luther College. This rugbyplaying sorority sister majoring in International Studies with a 22

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double minor in Spanish and Social Welfare can also handle the banjo, guitar, piano and concertina (similar to an accordion); and has a stunning voice that last year caught the attention of producers of The Voice.

Savannah’s music has been heard by many during performances around the area, but at present her busy lifestyle doesn’t allow for much time to take on gigs. She has, however, released a single, “Can’t Live without

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You,” and has her sights set on producing an album somewhere down the road. We at Girlfriends can’t wait for that day to come.

GF: When did you first discover an interest in singing?

SS: When I was in elementary school I figured out that I had a different voice than most people, but I wasn’t ready to jump into opportunities to sing for others.

In middle school my dad got me a surround-sound stereo system

for Christmas, and I figured out that if I played my music loud enough, I could sing along and nobody would hear me. It worked for a while, but after I finally sang for an audience in eighth grade, my parents started to actually pay attention to what I was doing.

Ever since then, performing has been something I really love, even though I don’t do it very often.

GF: Who are some of your mentors?

SS: I love Elvis Presley – and

Justyn Dow

SS: In all honesty I think success in the music industry has a lot to do with resources – and money. Equipment costs a lot, hiring people to record you costs a lot, and it’s a lot of work watonna native Justyn Dow also shares his experience to find people to market your stuff with The Voice. Justyn was a contestant during Season to. Networking with people is also a Four who made it to “the big stage” and auditioned difficult part of it. I think if you don’t in front of the actual judges: Adam, Blake, Usher and Shakira. know the right people or have the Though he wasn’t chosen to be part of a team, the experience right connections, you have a lesser gave him valuable insight into what it means to have a career chance of making it. in music.

I have been fortunate enough to have a good friend, Jonathan GF: Tell us about your experience on Season Four of Young, who knows how to do just The Voice. about everything. He helped me JD: It was a once-in-a-lifetime kind of experience. Going with all of my YouTube stuff, behind the scenes at Universal Studios, living in a hotel voice recording and video for four weeks with a bunch of incredible musicians recording. All I had to do – the whole process is something I’ll never forget. was write a song and he It definitely was a whirlwind of emotions: Surreal, pretty much did the rest. stressful, exhilarating, exhausting and devastating.

Both Savannah and GF: To date, what Ultimately, it kind of opened my eyes to the Justyn’s music can be found on have been some of the business side of the music/entertainment industry. I YouTube. highlights of your singing came back from the show unsure if it was something experiences?

I really wanted to be a part of (which I was previously SS: My high school has a show convinced of). every year called Rock and Roll GF: What are you doing now, in regard to music?

Revival. My junior year I was chosen JD: I’m not doing much musically these days. I live to sing “Rock Steady” by Aretha in Minneapolis and have a “real job.” I play cover gigs Franklin. I had a lot of fun in the show occasionally and still write/play in the privacy of my and I think it really helped me come apartment. At the age of 28, a music career is not something out of my shell and be comfortable I’m convinced is best for me. The ups and downs (mostly singing in front of a lot of people. downs), is a day-to-day struggle for 99 percent of musicians.

I also was asked to sing at a couple Even with an opportunity like The Voice, it takes incredible of the pep fests at the high school passion, talent and dedication to take it to a self-sustaining during homecoming week, and here level. It just wasn’t the lifestyle for me. at Luther I got second place in an open-mic night. In all honesty though, I have had fun in everything I have performed at; there is nothing like the adrenaline that comes from feedback from an audience.

GF: How do your family and friends support your talent and ambition?

SS: My family is supportive of everything I do and they are good about critiquing me on what to do better, especially my dad. My friends are also really supportive and always line the front row of whatever it is I am performing at.

GF: In regard to music, what is your ultimate wish for the future?

SS: Eventually I would like to write more songs, but time-wise it’s really out of the question right now. I love performing, but I don’t think I will ever make a career out of it. I’m really happy with what I am studying right now and I look forward to the job opportunities in my future. Music will always be a hobby to me and I hope to continue singing at events for people in my community.

ography of

Owatonna

.

O

Brooke Mac kennah Ph ot

r

love is an understatement. I started listening to him when I was in second grade and it became an obsession.

From then until about seventh grade I quite literally only listened to Elvis (and that is not an exaggeration – you should see my bedroom).

In seventh grade my family went on a vacation to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Country Music Hall of Fame, Sun Studios and Graceland. It opened my eyes to so many other artists that I had been missing out on, and my perspective on music changed a lot. It’s changed a lot since I’ve been in college as well, but overall my favorites are Elvis, Beyonce, Johnny Cash, Tom Jones, Aretha Franklin, Etta James, Styx, Led Zeppelin, My Chemical Romance, Adele, Barry Manilow and others.

GF: Tell us about your experience with The Voice.

SS: The first audition was in St. Paul and included about seven hours of standing in line and a lot of people watching. I auditioned in a small group of about 10 people in front of one of the producers. Of my group, myself and another gentleman were asked to stay. We each talked with the producer about what we were to prepare for the callback and were given a red card. Unfortunately, my callback was scheduled at a time that I was supposed to be in New Orleans on a trip I had fundraised for all year. After a lot of tears and driving a third of the way home only to turn around and go back to St. Paul, the empathetic staff of The Voice pulled some strings and I had my callback rescheduled to the morning before I left for New Orleans. It went well, but that was the end of the road for me. In all honesty though, part of me is glad I didn’t make it because I love Luther and I think I’ve found my niche here; I’m really happy with my life right now.

GF: Have you competed in other competitions, or are there any that you are considering?

SS: The only other competitions I have been a part of are open-mic nights with small prizes, but other than that I generally perform in shows just because I like to, and it’s good to see how different audiences react to what I do.

GF: The music industry is very competitive. What kind of effort do you have to put in to have a fair shot at success?

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exploreNew Ulm It may not fit under the tree... but New Ulm Furniture has great gifts for everyone on your list!

Recliners - Lamps - Art - Sofas Chairs - Jewelry Armoires - Benches Gift Certificates & so much more!

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FURNITURE Since 1945

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We have the Christmas gift and decorating items that you are looking for!

127 North Minnesota St. • New Ulm (507) 233-4287 www.gutentaghaus.com 24

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exploreSt. Peter

Think of us for your holiday plans!

The Woods grill & bar

It’s Sweater Weather!

Open to the public Located at Shoreland Country Club Tuesday thru Saturday: 11am-1:30pm & 5pm-8pm

700 N Minnesota Ave St. Peter, MN 507-931-6554 www.americinn.com

310 South Minnesota Ave. • St. Peter, MN (507) 931-1198 • (888) 836-6631 Mon.-Fri. 9:30-5:30; Sat. 9:30-5; Sun. 12-4

Second Time Around Thrift Store

30 Beers on Tap! Private Parties & Catering Available

Happy Hour: M-F, 3-6pm Half price pints Lunch & Dinner Specials 11am -11pm Breakfast Saturdays & Sundays -10am

Take Out & Off Sale Available 125 S. 3rd Street • St. Peter

507-931-9051

Clothing, Small household appliances & knick knacks.

Owned by the residents of the Benedictine Health Center of St. Peter, all profit goes into the resident activity fund.

202 South Minnesota Ave. | St. Peter 507-934-3642 | H: M-F 9:15-4, Sat 10-2 For volunteer opportunities, call: 507-934-8280

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Winter beauty

mistakes to avoid

C

old, blustery weather is waiting to rear its ugly head whether the public likes it or not. Winter weather may require revamping your normal health and beauty routine, as your skin and hair may need a bit more attention this time of year.

Chances are you may be doing one or more things wrong this winter, according to beauty experts. Learn the mistakes many people make and how to avoid them.

• Using the same foundation: Makeup needs may change in the winter. In addition to exploring a different color palette, you may need to actually change the formulation of the products you use. Skin tends to dry out in the cold, necessitating a switch to a foundation that boasts moisturizing agents. People who find their skin is normally oily may find a product for combination skin acceptable.

• Taking prolonged, hot showers: Many people enjoy lingering in a hot shower or bath during the colder months of the year. But too much hot water can compromise your skin’s ability to contain moisture, further complicating dryness that comes with the season.

• Covering dry skin with makeup: Slathering on makeup to hide dry skin will only make it more noticeable. Instead, do some gentle exfoliation and moisturization to combat the problem. Gently rub a wet washcloth over dry areas to remove flaky skin and prep your face for makeup application.

• Going overboard with a tan: Artificial tans can be unhealthy for the skin. Do not try to compensate for shorter bursts of sunlight by spending hours in a tanning bed. Avoid self-tanners and bronzers as well. If you must use a bronzer, stick to one shade darker than your skin tone and only touch the places the sun would hit naturally.

• Skipping sunscreen: The sun still shines in the winter, and skin is still susceptible to damage. Make sun protection a year-round part of your beauty regimen. Use a moisturizer with SPF built in to make morning routines that much easier.

• Forgetting hands and feet: Skin on hands and feet can dry out in winter air. Wear gloves to protect hands and thoroughly moisturize. Use a pumice stone to give feet an exfoliating treat and slather on the moisturizer. Pull on a pair of cotton socks and let that moisture penetrate feet for soft soles and toes.

• Selecting the wrong lip balm: Chapped lips seem to be par for the course this time of year. Instead of reaching for a waxy lip balm full of menthol, which can exacerbate already dry lips, select a lip butter or something that has a more liquid consistency to get into the cracks of dry lips.

• Ignoring hair: Your hair and scalp may need some winter TLC as well. Use extra conditioner to combat dryness and breakage. Rely on heat-protection styling products to combat damage from hair driers and other heat-based styling tools.

Winter beauty is attainable, especially when men and women remember to compensate for the poor conditions.

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exploreMankato

Are You ready to change your Life?

Ophthalmology Associates of Mankato will show you how! Find out how the most advanced laser vision correction technology can help you achieve clear, precise vision.

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507-345-6151

www.mankatoeyedoctors.com

This procedure is not suitable for all patients, individual results vary and are not guaranteed, ask for details.

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Pins and Needles Alterations Full Service Bridal Alterations • Hemming of any style dress • Bustles • Re-beading • Resizing your gown • Shortening straps and adding cups • Custom garters and veils made to order • Bridesmaid and prom dresses • No appointment necessary • Mothers of the Bride and Groom, as well as flower girls • Men’s tailoring

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Great gifts for the family

T

he best holiday gifts are often those that encourage their recipients to pursue a passion or favorite hobby.

Tickets to a ballgame might be right up a sports fan’s alley while the family globetrotter would no doubt love a contribution to his or her travel fund.

When gifting the family foodie, that one person who loves to cook or simply can’t get enough of his or her favorite cuisines, shoppers have a host of options at their disposal to ensure this holiday season brings a smile to their favorite foodie’s face.

Spice rack: Few home cooks can get by

without a vast selection of spices, so a spice rack that includes all the essential spices makes perfect sense for the family foodie. Some spice racks even come with several years’ worth of free spice refills, so do your homework and find one that will have your friend or family member spicing things up for years to come.

Cooking lessons: Cooking lessons can

be a great way for men, women and even children to cultivate their love for food. If your friend or family member prefers a specific type of cuisine, then find him or her cooking lessons where he or she can learn how to prepare and not just eat

Freshen your skin for the holidays.

Look refreshed and ready to go this holiday season—treat yourself by having a microdermabrasion or laser hair removal.

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www.hhcolederm.com

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some favorite dishes. Cooking lessons also make a great opportunity to bond with a loved one. If you, too, want to expand your cooking horizons, buy your own lessons and go with your friend or family member.

A night out: If your favorite foodie prefers his or her meals made by someone else, treat that friend or family member to a night out at his or her favorite restaurant.

You can give a gift card to the restaurant or take this special someone out yourself and enjoy a great meal and great company to boot.

Serving dishes: Many foodies not only love to eat but also love to serve up

their favorite foods to family and friends. If your friend or family member has played host to guests many times in the past, surprise him or her with some new serving dishes. You probably have a sense of their serving style already, but if you don’t, make a mental note the next time you visit or simply buy them a gift card so they can buy whichever dishes they need to make their next soiree a success.

Wine rack: A great bottle of wine completes a great meal, so why not buy your family foodie a place to store all of his or her bottles of wine? Wine racks can range from the simple, inexpensive standup models to more complex or expensive

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models that need to be installed. If the eventual recipient of your thoughtful gift rents rather than owns his or her home, avoid buying a wine rack that needs to be installed, as that might cause damage that will cost them some money when the time comes to move out. But if your friend or family member owns their home, then look for a wine rack that fits in with their established décor. You even can christen the new wine rack by supplementing your gift with a few bottles of your loved one’s favorite vintages.

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Offering a unique shopping experience that encourages your individual style with a blend of New, Old/Vintage & Repurposed Accents for your home

310 Division Street, Lower Level · Northfield (head down the alley, we’re on the riverside) HOLIDAY ISSUE 2014 |

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How to

gift

the people who aren’t family

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C

ome the holiday season, many people find it’s not just family and friends on their shopping lists. Coworkers and acquaintances often land on such lists as well, and it’s not always easy deciding what to get those people who aren’t close friends or family members.

Boss Gifting the boss is a sensitive subject and should be dictated by company protocol. If you are the only employee to buy your boss a gift, it may seem like you are trying to curry favor.

However, if everyone else is gifting and you fail to offer a gift, you may be caught off guard.

Some business etiquette experts say that it is customary for bosses to give gifts to employees but not the reverse. However, employees who are especially close with their bosses or who work closely with them each day may want to offer a small token of appreciation.

When selecting gifts for bosses, do not give anything too personal, such as clothing, perfume or jewelry. Food or gift cards are a safer bet. Experts say a gift in the range of $10 to $25

is adequate. Chipping in for a gift with other employees may be the best course of action so you don’t inspire resentment among coworkers.

Babysitter or nanny Caregivers play important roles in the lives of children. Once you have found a sitter or nanny who you trust, you want to ensure you keep that person content. If you regularly use a nanny or sitter, money is always a great gift. For a full-time nanny, one week to one month’s pay is adequate. For a regular sitter, consider a gift equal to two nights’ pay.

Coach or club leader Children today are involved in many different activities, and chances are parents’ schedules are filled with sports games and practices. A small gift of $10 to $20 can show your appreciation to a coach or club leader.

This is another instance when it might be nice to pool your resources with fellow parents to purchase one large gift.

Mail carrier

If your mail is delivered by the same mail

carrier week after week, you may want to spread some holiday joy. Mail carriers have an extra workload during the holidays, when they are tasked with delivering packages and greeting cards in addition to more routine mail.

Civil servants may be forbidden from receiving cash. In such instances, a gift card makes a great gift.

Trash collector Hauling garbage is neither an easy nor glamorous job. Many garbage collectors appreciate a tip for their hard work. Take notice of who collects the trash from your home. If it is the same people each week, take the time to personally deliver an envelope with a small tip of around $20.

Hairstylist If you are a regular for frequent treatments and color in a salon, show the stylist you appreciate his or her work with a cash gift. If you want to give a wrapped present, avoid tools of the trade or anything that is too personal.

Stylists are on their feet much of the day, so a gift for a massage appointment or pedicure may be just what they need.

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4087393 Elwood Star Cleaner girlfriends 11-10 MR | | HOLIDAY ISSUE 2014

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Wellness

expectations Traditional or alternative birth: What’s the right option for you?

By Christine Bernier Lienke oday’s expectant mothers have birthing options that run the gamut from traditional hospital births to water births. Support systems for a woman during childbirth have also widened from simply having a partner in the room to employing trained professional doulas whose primary goal is to tend to the specific needs of the woman in labor.

When Tiffany Reinitz planned for the birth of her child, she opted for a nontraditional approach, delivering her bundle of joy at home using the water birth method with the assistance of midwife Erica Urban and the support of two doulas. She felt delivering at home would give her a sense of calm and relaxation, and her husband agreed.

“The birthing tub was extremely relaxing and the hot water provided additional comfort especially during the last phase of the labor until delivery,” says Tiffany, of Henderson. “I feel the whole experience was an amazing start to my daughter’s life. She came into the world in a peaceful, cozy environment. Her demeanor 34

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since birth has been easygoing and happy, and I sincerely believe the way she came into the world had a lot to do with that.”

Tiffany had two doulas by her side during the delivery.

The doulas were busy providing comfort to Tiffany and her husband, helped coach during labor and delivery, boiled water for the water birth, and even made her a replenishing smoothie after delivery. Having the support from the doulas allowed Tiffany and her husband to focus on the process and be more present during the delivery of their first child.

Delivering her daughter in January also allowed her home birth to happen in a warm, safe environment without having to travel to a hospital in subzero weather, and she was able to sleep in her own bed that same evening.

“I would encourage anybody to look into alternative birthing methods for making their birthing experience the best it can be, whether it’s water birth or some other method.”

For some women, like Tiffany, using alternative childbirth

River Valley Birth Center birthing rooms.

methods are a wonderful fit, while others find comfort in a traditional hospital delivery.

Let’s take a look at some of the modern and natural methods available to women today.

Choosing to deliver your baby in a hospital could be the best choice if you’re most comfortable surrounded by medical staff and trained nurses. Within a hospital, you’ll be under the care of an ob-gyn or family physician and the hospital’s nursing staff.

Birthing rooms, delivery plans and alternative birthing methods (that vary by hospital) should be discussed with your healthcare provider prior to delivery. To find more details about delivering in a hospital, visit online at whattoexpect.com.

In July 2014, the River Valley Birth Center in St. Peter was opened by Erika Urban. Wanting to follow the midwife care model and make it accessible to all women, regardless of their economic status, Erika opened the center after five successful years in her homebirth midwifery practice.

A birthing center allows families wanting a “home” birth to do so in a homelike facility without having to prepare their own homes for the birth or clean up after childbirth.

The birthing center can accommodate up to 20 women per month and offers options for alternative births, including water births, birthing slings (also known as birthing swings) or the use of a birthing stool. A birthing center also allows women on medical assistance or Minnesota Care to uuu

Birth option using birthing sling.

Erika Urban, owner of the River Valley Birth Center, busts four myths about birthing alternatives: If you go to a birthing center, you’re dismissing necessary medical attention.

As a midwife, I see myself as part of a greater healthcare community. Should a woman need services that we cannot provide at the birth center, we will arrange for those services to occur with an outside provider. We do have to occasionally transport in labor to a local hospital if additional care looks like it may be needed. Midwives are trained in emergency procedures and we can carry and administer emergency medications.

Aren’t midwives and doulas the same thing?

Doulas are an important member of the birth team. They provide emotional and physical support through labor and can help prepare a family for childbirth and the postpartum time. They don’t provide any clinical care, as this is the midwife’s role.

Midwives often provide an additional level of emotional comfort and support, but their job is to provide all the clinical components of care such as monitoring the progress of labor and taking vital signs.

If you hire a midwife, you have to have a home birth.

You can have a midwife in any setting: Home, birth center or hospital.

Midwives and out-of-hospital births are a new fad.

Midwives have been around through the ages. Midwives were the ones who attended nearly all births until the specialty of obstetrics came along. My own greatgrandmother was a midwife during the Great Depression in northern Minnesota. Birthing inside the hospitals with a doctor is a much younger tradition, which didn’t gain popularity in this country until the 1940s.

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choose this option whereas a home birth isn’t covered by either plan. To learn more about the River Valley Birth Center, visit rivervalleybirthcenter.com.

There are many methods available to assist in a more comfortable birthing circumstance. All of the following alternatives can be used singularly or in combination to provide a more unique and possibly more comfortable birthing experience.

A doula is a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to an expectant mother. Two different types of doulas exist: Birth doulas and postpartum doulas.

A birth doula focuses on attending to the mother’s physical, emotional and informational needs before, during and immediately after childbirth.

A postpartum doula assists strictly after childbirth to help the new mother to learn nursing techniques and assist with possible perinatal mood disorders.

Having a HypnoBirth, also known as the Mongan Method, means that the expectant mother has learned deep relaxation, visualization and self-hypnosis techniques to create a more serene birth.

Named after its founder Marie Mongan,

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a hypnotherapist from Chichester, N.H., this option is designed to offer a drug-free alternative in which the woman in labor learns how the birthing muscles function and uses mind techniques to relax those muscles to potentially reduce the pain of labor.

To find HypnoBirthing classes in Minnesota, visit hypnobirthingresources. com/hypnobirthing-classes-minnesota.

This birthing method places the woman in labor in a pool where she’ll deliver the child into the warm water. Once born, the child is pulled gently from the water by a nurse or doula. The experience is meant to provide a calm, serene entry for the child, similar to its experience in the womb. Water births can take place at home, in a birthing facility or in a hospital.

A birthing sling hangs from the ceiling and supports a mother during delivery. The birthing sling is made of fabric and allows the mother to be in various positions that facilitate the birthing process.

A birthing stool or chair is typically 8 to 10 inches above the ground and supports the mother in an upright seated position. The stool is designed to support the laboring woman and allows her to brace her feet against the ground while pushing during contractions.

Christine Bernier Lienke is a professional writer and editor based in Northfield.

fter you’ve delivered that little bundle of joy by the birthing method of your choice, you’ll need to have some baby names in mind! Here are the top most popular names in 2014 from the 39 million global users of BabyCenter, a parenting and pregnancy digital resource found at babycenter.com:

Liam Noah Ethan Mason Logan Lucas Jacob Jackson Aiden Jack

Emma Olivia Sophia Ava Isabella Mia Charlotte Emily Harper Abigail

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A center for the prevention, detection and treatment of cancer HOLIDAY ISSUE 2014 |

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Wellness

Keep calm and

carry on 38

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Renee and Grant Otte and sons Kent, Kellen and Alec.

Dr. Wendy Bongers and her family.

How to stay at ease during the hectic holidays

By Rachel Minske

R

enee Otte is the textbook example of “busy.”

Between running an environmental consulting business alongside her husband, Kent, and volunteering at church and at her kids’ school, the mom of three maintains a hectic schedule.

“I do a lot of running with the kids,” Otte said.

“Running them to school, piano lessons, orthodontist appointments.”

Thanks to lots of practice and a little help from her Outlook e-mail calendar, balancing a demanding schedule on a day-to-day basis is smooth sailing for Otte, who lives in Randolph.

But when the holiday season rolls around, Otte’s calendar goes into overdrive. Rather than letting it result in stress, she maintains control by keeping things simple.

Otte completes most of her gift shopping online so that she can quickly pick out what she needs rather than spend unnecessary time in a store. When it comes to time spent with relatives, she and her family usually spend Christmas Eve with her in-laws and Christmas Day with her parents.

“We really don’t overdo it,” Otte said.

“At the end of the day there is a lot of focus on our priorities: Spiritual needs, family needs, community needs.”

Finding balance Wendy Bongers is a family practice physician with Mayo Health System in Faribault. The doctor said the clinic sees a spike in the number of mental-health related visits during the holiday season.

“We see an increase in depression, anxiety and grief during this time,” said Bongers, who reminds others to care for themselves during this time of the year. “Be good to yourself and understand this is normal. Balance things as best you can.”

Bongers is currently writing a book filled with tips for maintaining a balanced life. She suggests the following guidelines for managing sensory overload around the holidays: • Give yourself a 10 minute “time out” daily Every day take 10 minutes for yourself doing something during which your mind can unwind. Try relaxing in a bath, going on a 10-minute walk, or just sitting in a chair with your eyes closed.

During the holiday season we are at risk for sensory overload. Leave your phone behind and take 10 minutes daily to rejuvenate and do absolutely nothing. You will be more rested and ready to tackle the busy holiday season.

• Realize you just can’t fit everything in Try not to “do it all.” You just can’t. Set realistic expectations. Avoid planning more than one big outing or project in a day.

• Sometimes you will just have to say “no” The best way to be able to say no is to set your family’s expectations and schedule first. Whether you are planning for a trip or the holidays, it is important to engage everyone at the beginning to determine priorities. For instance, when planning a vacation have each person pick one thing that she really wants to do. Prioritize that. Doing so sets realistic expectations for the whole vacation time. The same could be applied for holidays: Have each child and parent pick one thing they really want to do, such as go on a drive to see Christmas lights, take a day to go sledding or skiing, visit grandma, etc. Then these things should be prioritized first and scheduled on the calendar.

Remember, it’s the holidays – enjoy the season.

Rachel Minske is a multimedia journalist. When not writing, she’s usually drinking coffee and asking questions.

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Wellness

ALLISON K. SCHMITT

Here’s to good health Allison K. Schmitt is Meat and Cheese Buyer at Just Food Co-op in Northfield Sponsored by Just Food Co-op

Ferndale turkey:

Just part of the family If turkey bound for a holiday table had the choice, it would surely choose to spend its short life at Ferndale Market farm. The Cannon Falls enterprise places a high priority on quality of life for its birds. Its slogan says it all: “We treat our turkeys like they’re part of the family. Because since 1939, they have been.”

Indeed, third-generation turkey farmer John Peterson spoke admiringly of the some 14,000 hens that crowded around the hay wagon during a recent farm tour.

“Curiosity is the turkey’s defining trait,” Peterson said. “Many folks think that turkeys are ‘dumb.’ I think their curiosity can occasionally lead them into trouble, but they’re certainly not dumb creatures.”

When Peterson’s grandparents Fern and Dale – the namesakes of the business – began raising turkeys 75 years ago, the farm’s now-unconventional practices were the convention. Remaining independent has allowed them to continue these practices, he said.

Peterson listed numerous points of difference between Ferndale and conventional turkey operations. Except for the crucial 10 to 14 days after hatching, the turkeys have continuous access to the outdoors. During the summer they are completely on range. There they can forage for plants and insects to supplement the small grains that make up the bulk of their diet.

“Range-raised turkeys are less stressed, less prone to disease and better muscled than their conventional counterparts, which leads to a better product,” Peterson said.

Within Ferndale’s 140 acres are two ranges of 15 to 20 acres each, one for the toms and one for the hens. Every week each group is moved to a

Show some Co-op Love.

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different part of the range to avoid overusing the land, Peterson said.

“Incidentally, turkeys are easier to herd than cats. Employees drag the sheds by tractor to a fresh portion of the range and the turkeys follow,” Peterson said. The processing also diverges from industry practices.

“All our products are naturally processed, meaning that there’s nothing added. We feel that our turkeys taste good on their own, so we don’t add anything to hide the natural flavor,” Peterson said.

“This also makes our turkeys a good value, because shoppers aren’t buying added water instead of meat.”

The life cycle of Ferndale’s 160,000 turkeys is local from start to finish. Ferndale buys its poults – Nicholas broad-breasted whites – from Valley of the Moon hatchery in Iowa. The corn and soy meal the turkeys eat come from a mill in Howard Lake. The manure is sold to a Cannon Falls fertilizer manufacturer. Internal organs and entrails find their way into pet food in the five-state area.

The ready-to-cook birds are processed at Turkey Valley Farms in Marshall; the sausages are made at Lorentz Meats in Cannon Falls and Steve’s Meat Market in Ellendale.

The legacy of Fern and Dale Peterson live on in the practices as well as the name of Ferndale Market farm. Just Food Co-op is proud to offer the high-quality, nutritious products that are the result.

This year, turkey reservations will be taken beginning at our Annual Meeting on Oct. 25 through Nov. 16. Turkey pick-up day is Monday, Nov. 24 from 4 -7 p.m. Fresh turkeys will range from 10 to 24 pounds, with the majority in the 12to 18-pound range. We cannot reserve turkeys by size, so arrive early for best selection.

516 Water St S, Northfield 507-650-0106 · justfood.coop

SoMinn Media

for women on the go Introducing the Southern Minn Media mobile app.

- Free app available in iPhone and Android versions - Includes news, sports, features and more from neighboring towns in southern Minnesota - Flipboard-style format - Watch for coupons and deals

NOW AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD HOLIDAY ISSUE 2014 |

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Kari Berit

Unexpected CaregiveR Kari Berit (www.KariBerit. com) is a caregiver coach, radio show host and author of The Unexpected Caregiver, who addresses audiences nationwide on issues of aging and caregiving.

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Much needed support for the caregiver Ask for help. This concept is not easy to do for family caregivers (or many of us, really). When we understand that we don’t have to be the expert in this thing called “family care-giving,” we can transform our role as a family caregiver.

Taking care of family is generally rife with guilt: Guilt of not doing enough, not spending enough time, not having the right tools, not being able to juggle all the many hats one wears. When the weight of playing this role becomes all-consuming, the family caregiver isolates herself — turning down coffee invitations, date nights and workouts at the gym. “There’s no time,” the dutiful family caregiver cries. But the moment you surrender the notion of being “the one” to handle it all and ask for help, you are becoming a less stressed caregiver.

We are not trained to care for our parents. We don’t know what to do when those who were the ones in charge become the ones who need care.

And while many of us may feel strongly that it is our duty to care for them, that doesn’t mean we have the knowledge or heart to handle the myriad of roles care-giving demands.

Knowledge is one thing: We can learn about a disease or how to set up a medication box. But taming our emotions requires a strong support team. How do we deal with caring for a father who may have abused us or simply been absent in our lives? Or a mother who was an alcoholic and now needs our care? Or how do we convince our siblings that they need to help, too?

That’s the worst-case scenario. It may also be that you love your parents and get along famously with your siblings, but still feel overwhelmed and under prepared to step up to the role of caring for Mom or Dad.

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I’d like to propose hosting peer-to-peer caregiver support groups. Other caregivers have valuable insights, can empathize and let us all know that we are not alone in our struggles. The Lutheran Endowment for the Elderly at ELCA Foundation provided funds to Northfield Retirement Community for use in creating such support groups. Several groups ran simultaneously, and we were able to gain valuable insights and evaluation from these groups. But worth its weight in gold were the comments from members: “My dad is widowed and lives by himself,” said one participant. “The group is a great way to share my concerns and fears as I encounter different issues in caring for him.”

“Other caregivers have valuable insights,” said another. “They share practical information about a variety of subjects, including transportation, health care and taking care of myself. These people help me to maintain equilibrium at all times. We all share many issues and feelings. We can empathize with each other. It’s a safe place to express one’s self, even to cry.”

From the grant, we were able to develop a lowcost, easily replicable peer-to-peer caregiver group (visit unexpectedcaregiver.com). Group members are each given a turn to check in and express how they’re feeling right now in relation to their care-giving without interruption or feedback until everyone has had an opportunity to share. They can also pass. All information that is shared stays within the group, creating a sacred space.

If you want more information about starting a group, contact me. As always, I’m here to help.

Give them the greatest gift of all,

good health!

Child and Teen Checkups

Child and Teen Checkups are available to children from birth through age 20 who are covered by Minnesota state health plans such as: • Medical Assistance • Minnesota Care

• South Country Health Alliance • Blue Plus

Steele County PubliC HealtH

m Child and Teen Checkups Progra 507-444-7650 Call if you need help with transportation, interpreters or making an appointment.

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NINTH ANNUAL EDITION

Owatonna 2015

Bridal Fair

Act Fast! Only 100 are Available!

See full details at Owatonna.com.

This little symbol of Christmas love is available exclusively from your favorite area businesses. Starting November 1, collect $400 worth of receipts from participating businesses, bring them in to the Owatonna People’s Press, and claim your limited-edition 2014 Owat-a-Bear!

Sun, January 18, 2015 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Holiday Inn & Suites I-35, Exit 45, Owatonna

Register Now! Booth Space is Limited!

For booth information, please contact Betty Frost: 507-444-2389 or bfrost@owatonna.com

Owatonna.com

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Every week, a free item with your $30 purchase.

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Weekly advertised specials all over the store.

Keeping prices Prices dropped extra low to save low and money in our you money. community.

OPEN 24 HOURS FIND US ONLINE AT WWW.CASHWISE.COM 496 West North Street, Owatonna • 507-451-7220 507-451-8440 495 44

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Girlfriends Guide

$ Financial Resources

Food & Entertainment

Brad L. Running CLU®

OWATONNA COUNTRY CLUB

Financial Advisor. A unique and disciplined approach. Today, it’s natural to have questions about your retirement, even if you’ve saved and planned for it. With our proprietary Confident Retirement® approach, we’ll find answers and take the first step toward creating a road map to the future you want. We’ll talk through the four basic principles of retirement: (1) covering essential expenses, (2) assuring your lifestyle, (3) preparing for the unexpected and (4) leaving a legacy. And I’ll help you make adjustments as needed so you can retire on your terms. Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., 1850 Austin Road, Suite 104, Owatonna, MN 55060, 507-4554070 brad.l.running@ampf.com, ameripriseadvisors@ampf.com/brad.l.running.

Welcome to the Owatonna Country Club, your full service club offering everything from golf, fine dining, and catering to fun! The Owatonna Country Club has been meeting the needs of Owatonna and the surrounding comunities since 1919 — either through our numerous membership options, hosting spectacular weddings and executive meetings (OPEN TO THE PUBLIC) or by providing the most professional golf tournament venue in southern Minnesota. Please call us with any questions or visit our website at www.owatonnacc.com. 1991 Lemond Road, Owatonna, MN 55060, Main: 507-451-6120, Catering: 507-451-6120.

Bremer Bank- Ryan Gillespie Buying a new home should be exciting. At Bremer Bank, we’ll make sure that arranging your home financing is a positive experience. The process can be safe and simple when you work with a bank that helps you understand what you should know and takes action for you. Ryan Gillespie, experienced mortgage loan officer, can help with any mortgage need you have, whether you’re a first-time home buyer, looking to move into a different home, looking to refinance, or about to build a home.

Ryan Gillespie, NMLS #503704, 507-676-2708, 730 West Bridge St, Owatonna. rlgillespie@bremer. com. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

Castle Rock Bank The Castle Rock Bank has been serving the women in this community for 96 years. To answer the question, “What do women want in banking?” We believe the answer is, “To be heard, understood, respected and valued.”

27925 Danville Ave Castle Rock, 507-645-7751 www.castlerockbank.net.

SANDY FLOM, CPA, CFP Sandy Flom has worked in Faribault for the past 19 years as an Accountant, she’s been a QuickBooks Pro Advisor for many years so she understands how it works and can help guide you through what you need. 14 3rd Street NE, Faribault. 507-333-3973 www.faribaultcpa.com.

State Bank of Faribault State Bank of Faribault is an innovative community bank with two locations in Faribault (established in 1919). Offering business loans, home mortgage, free mobile banking, free online banking and more, SBF is a leader in convenience, as well as customer service. 507332-7401 www.tsbf.com Member FDIC Equal housing Lender

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Health & Wellness

Curves of Owatonna Our Curves Complete program, offers women a complete weight loss solution— exercise, meal plans, and coaching—all in one location. Curves Protein Bars (Meal & Snack size) and Spot Toning classes. All Curves staff are certified by the Cleveland Clinic in Exercise, Nutrition and Behavior Coaching. Curves - 1828 S. Cedar Ave, Owatonna 507-455-4060.

Fit for Life Fit for Life is a 24-hour Fitness Center located just off Hwy 21 N. We specialize in individual and group personal training as well as weight management and group fitness classes. State of the Art Cybex Equipment is on site for those who prefer to do it alone. 1400 Cannon Circle, Suite 6, Faribault, 507-333-5430 www.fitforlifemn. com.

Holland Family Dental Holland Family Dental is located in the Professional Building on Hillcrest Ave. in Owatonna. We have been in Owatonna since 1996 and concentrate on dentistry for the entire family. We offer services in preventive, cosmetic and comprehensive care which includes implants and up-to-date dental technology. Please visit us at 605 Hillcrest Ave. Owatonna MN. 507-4517250.

IN TOUCH PHYSICAL THERAPY In Touch Physical Therapy is dedicated to providing hands on care to promote and maintain the healthy function of every client.

Our doctors of physical therapy specialize in injury rehab, chronic pain, work comp injuries, car accidents, dizziness, pain management, sports training, and women’s health. We have one hour appointments. Check us out at www. intouchpt.com. We work with all insurance companies. Your pain stops here! 123 W. Broadway St. Owatonna, MN.507-451-7888.

JERILYN WIEDERHOLT, MS, MS, LP, ATR-BC Licensed Psychologist, Registered Board Certified Art Therapist, Licensed Educator K-12. Providing mental health services (assessment, therapy, consultation, training) to adults, adolescents and children. Use of psychological techniques to improve mental and physical health. Integrative, holistic, wellness oriented. Northfield, MN. 507321-2002.

Millstream Commons Assisted Living Millstream Commons Assisted Living is located in downtown Northfield. 44 Assisted Living apartments (studio, 1 and 2 BR) featuring three meals a day, supportive nursing care, respite care, & life enrichment activities. Pets allowed.

Licensed Housing with Services provider. Part of the Three Links Community. Member of Aging Services of Minnesota. 210 8th St W, Northfield, 507-650-9627, threelinks.org .

Northfield Urgent Care Tired of waiting to see your doctor for simple problems like sore throats and earaches? We provide walk-in medical care for all ages, from infants to adults. We are open 7 days per week and no appointment is needed! Quick, easy and efficient! 2014 Jefferson Rd Suite C, Northfield, MN 55057, 507-664-9999, northfieldurgentcare.com.

The Northfield Area Family YMCA The Northfield Area Family YMCA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing opportunities for all individuals, families, and the community to achieve their fullest potential.

From summer camps, to youth sports, to preschool activities and adult wellness, we have something for everyone. Become a member of the YMCA! 519 Division Street, Northfield 507-645-0088, www.northfieldymca.org.

Scholarships are available to ensure everyone can participate. uuu

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Girlfriends Guide Northfield Retirement Community Situated on a 30-acre, beautifully landscaped campus, NRC was established in 1969 to provide housing and services specifically designed to meet the physical, social, psychological and spiritual needs of older adults. Housing options include apartments with a minimal level of services, as well as other home settings that make increasing levels of service readily available. Options include rental and owneroccupied living spaces. Units are available for both income-sensitive and market-rate income levels. NRC also provides a fully-staffed care center for those who desire a more traditional nursing home setting. 900 Cannon Valley Drive, Northfield, 507-645-9511, northfieldretirement. org.

Home & Garden Judy’s Floral Design

Salons

Transportation

BLOWN AWAY SALON & SPA Blown Away Salon & Spa offers a variety of services that are perfect for any budget. The salon side offers hair cutting, styling, coloring, & perming. All of our staff is experienced and attends regular classes to keep our guests updated. On the spa side, we offer massage with therapists specializing in Swedish, Deep Tissue, Prenatal, & Reflexology. Our Esthetician does body waxing, makeup lessons/applications, lash extensions, facials, microderm, and chemical peels. Getting married? Check out our great bridal packages! 159 18th St. SW, Suite 4, Owatonna, MN 55060. www.blown-awaysalon.com.

Shopping A touch of charm

Whether Your Wedding is black tie/ ballroom or barefoot on the beach or somewhere in between! Beautiful, quality flowers and great ideas start with Judy Smith. “Specializing in fresh creative and affordable blooms for all the flower moments of your life” 507645-0008, 300 Railway St. North, Dundas, judysfloraldesign.com.

A Touch of Charm is a quaint florist and gift shop in downtown Blooming Prairie, Minnesota. Leanne Hanson, owner, has been providing home accents, decorating ideas, gift and full service floral for the area since 1988.

We specialize in a mixture of traditional, cottage and countrypolitan accents for your home and a unique array of gifts that you can’t wait to give.

507-583-7637, atouchofcharmonline.com.

Simon Bros Cement Co.

The Paper Petalum

Simon Bros Cement Co. has been serving the Northfield area since 1969. We specialize in quality concrete and masonry including foundations, driveways, epoxy garage floors.

Call for a free estimate. We will look at your project and use 40+ years of experience to share ideas and advice. Call Ray 612-3284591.

American Family Insurance Bart Jackson Agency American Family Insurance offers home, automobile, atv, motorcycle, boat, commercial business, farm and life insurance. We are available to meet with you personally to review your situation and provide recommendations as to the proper coverage’s for your needs.

Bart Jackson Insurance Agency, 408 Central Ave N, Suite D, Faribault, MN 55021. 507332-6812.

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WANT TO BE LISTED ON THE GF DIRECTORY?

The Community Co-op is located in beautiful and historic downtown Faribault, MN. We were organized in 1925 and have been a cornerstone of this community ever since.

We specialize in fuels, lubricants, tires, and vehicle service, all for an affordable price.

Women live busy lives, our staff understands how important service and convenience are.

That is why we are the Company where our customers send their friends. 9 Central Ave, Faribault 507-334-2056, www.coopoilfblt. com.

Northfield Lines, Inc. Have your group arrive in style when you pull up in one of our luxurious motor or mini coaches. Single or multi-day sightseeing trips, shopping, girlfriend getaways, dining, concerts, weddings, receptions, casino visits – you name the event and we will get your group there safely and on time. 32611 Northfield Blvd, Northfield, 800-944-2190, www.northfieldlines.com.

Travel CEDAR TRAVEL

The Paper Petalum in the historic Archer House (212 Division St.) offers friendly customer service and unique gifts for all occasions. Locally owned and operated since 1987 we specialize in Scandinavian gifts, Minnesota products, decorative napkins, Polish Pottery, Rothschild foods, and much, much more. Stop in and visit us. 507-6630565.

Insurance

Community Co-op

We pride ourselves to be a full service travel agency serving the needs of our customers since 1989! We want to take time to know your needs and find the perfect fit for your memorable vacation, so stop in or call for a consultation! Whether it’s a honeymoon, romantic vacation, family reunion or a getaway with your girlfriends, our agents are live and here for you! Our staff is available MondayFriday 8:30AM-5PM and enjoy sharing stories of our favorite destinations! 111 Cedar Avenue, N. Owatonna, MN 55060 www.cedartravel.net 50-745-51170.

507-645-1110 lrott@northfieldnews.com

a lifestyle {newborn.kids.family.senior.wedding} photography

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DESIGN B.Schroht Design | Photography | Print | Web

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We can help you look your best Mayo Clinic Health System provides cosmetic surgery options near you including: • Rejuvenation of the face and hands • Body contouring and liposuction • Breast and facial reconstruction Albert Lea | 404 West Fountain St. Albert Lea, MN 56007 507-373-2384

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