FW Apr 24

ALIGNED HEALTH + WELLNESS

Taking Back Your Life

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• Blinds

• Shutters

• Shades

• Drapes

• Home Automation

• Window Film

Freshen up your home’s style with new window treatments — let the experts of Budget Blinds show you the latest fashions, fabrics, and functionality. From the Triad to Mt Airy, to Boone and the High Country, and everywhere in between — our design consultants are ready to help you make your home a calming oasis this spring.

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Budget Blinds of North Winston Salem, Mt Airy, Boone, and the High Country proudly serves Forsyth, Stokes, Surry, Yadkin, Alleghany, Ashe, Watauga, Wilkes, and surrounding counties.

336-701-5474

the publisher perspective

Happy April!

Our team is thrilled to bring you the April 2024 issue of Forsyth Woman! Our mission is to connect our community, and we achieve this by helping small businesses share their stories – we believe everyone has a story worth sharing.

This issue is packed with content you won’t want to miss! From inspiring stories of local women to delicious recipes, movie recommendations and even an article on the history of Krispy Kreme (see page 68), there’s something for everyone. We hope you enjoy reading this issue coverto-cover as much as we enjoyed putting it together.

As I write this, we’re just a few days away from our 3rd Annual Women on the Move Conference. The energy and inspiration at this event is indescribable. Follow our social media platforms (@forsythmags) for photos and videos from this exciting day. If you missed out this year, subscribe to our newsletter at forsythwoman.com to be the first to know when tickets go on sale for the 2025 conference.

April is brimming with exciting local events! Here are a few highlights:

• The Junior League of Winston-Salem presents the Tour of Fine Spaces (page 74).

• Forsyth Woman’s monthly Girls’ Night Out event is on April 9th at Jeffrey Adams on Fourth (page 37).

• Second Harvest Food Bank’s Empty Bowls event is on April 24th (page 87).

• LKN Magazine’s Boutique Crawl is on April 27th, revamped and better than ever (page 71).

• Trellis Supportive Care’s annual Derby Party is on Saturday, May 4th (page 80).

And, that’s just the beginning – there are many more events listed on our Calendar of Events (page 96). If you have an upcoming event, be sure to submit it on our website. Event submissions are always free!

Stay connected with us beyond the magazine. Tune in to our podcast (available on all major streaming platforms and YouTube), follow us on social media @forsythmags and consider attending one of our events, from the Women on the Move Conference to Girls’ Night Out and our annual Boutique Crawl – we’ve got something for everyone!

Wishing you an amazing April,

Brooke Eagle, @brooke__eagle Publisher

Piedmont Federal Bank

Opening Doors for a Stronger Community

by MARTIE EMORY

Having served our community for 121 years — making them the oldest financial institution founded in Winston-Salem that is still in existence today — Piedmont Federal Bank continues to rebrand and strengthen its tradition of being a community-centered bank.

Their steadfast focus is guiding customers to achieve their goals — and those goals require opening doors. Whether you’re purchasing a home, building your personal savings, or financing equipment for a small business venture, opening those doors for new growth builds a stronger community all around — and the very best place for your family to call home!

If you’re new to the area, know that the founders of Piedmont Federal believed in a strict set of values that have translated through the years, via impeccable personal service, always remaining authentic, building caring relationships, simply doing what’s right, and yes, knowing customers by name!

Of course Piedmont Federal offers a wide range of personal and business financial products, from home mortgage loans, home equity loans, personal loans, equipment loans, and commercial real estate loans, to retirement planning, and integrated account services for your company. You’ll find rates on all Piedmont Federal products are extremely competitive, and all their savings programs are safe and secure.

It’s easy to see why the company is the small-to-midsize bank of choice for so many residents and business owners in Clemmons, Winston-Salem, and the surrounding areas. And, the growth continues!

“We have recently acquired Wake Forest Federal, which means we will be expanding into new markets, especially in the Triangle,” shares Neal Parnell, Chief Retail Banking Officer.

The mortgage banking line has always been very active and continues to expand as well — opening up greater

opportunities to help families in the community be successful in home ownership. No matter your stage of life, the experts at Piedmont Federal can make the road to a new home a smoother journey.

“We provide a customized mortgage experience to meet the needs of our clients, including a full conventional mortgage offering for first time home buyers, repeat buyers, down payment assistance programs, and construction-to-permanent loans for those wanting to build a new home,” explains Neal. “We also offer programs to help with buying homes for family members, and those with acreage and unique dwellings.”

Piedmont Federal allows clients to choose the interest rate program that works for them or offers them the option to keep their loan local and have loan servicing right here at a local branch.

Piedmont is also well-positioned to help with local business needs as well. Michelle Koster recently joined Piedmont Federal as Chief Commercial Banking Officer to oversee exciting expansions in the commercial banking line to serve the community’s needs more fully. From commercial real estate loans, equipment financing, and lines of credit, the Piedmont Federal team will always be a trusted advocate for your business; providing local loan decisioning and personalized service.

“We are also working enthusiastically to become a GREEN bank by being more environmentally friendly — always planet over paper! — and developing a carbon neutral mortgage product,” says Neal. “Clients can choose the option for eStatements when they log in to online banking.”

Built on community since day one, this much-respected mutual savings bank was founded by a small group of businessmen intent on guiding their neighbors towards owning a home and establishing financial security. As a mutual bank, Piedmont Federal is accountable to clients, employees, and the communities it serves, and you’ll find that a great deal of the current community was built through their financing programs. Let them work for your family!

“

We provide a customized mortgage experience to meet the needs of our clients, including a full conventional mortgage offering for first time home buyers, repeat buyers, down payment assistance programs, and constructionto-permanent loans for those wanting to build a new home.

“

For more information on the personal promise of Piedmont Federal Bank and an overview of their comprehensive services, visit them at piedmontfederal.bank, and follow them on Instagram @piedmontfederalbank. The home office of Piedmont Federal Bank is located in Winston-Salem at 201 S. Stratford Road, 336-770-1000, and the Clemmons branch is conveniently located at 3701 Clemmons Road, 336-766-0581. Additional branches are located around Winston-Salem, and in High Point, Boone, Kernersville, and North Wilkesboro.

NEUROPATHY Get Help Before It Gets Worse

“Years ago I suddenly got to where I could not walk barefoot

results I read about this clinic in a magazine and thought,

Keeping It Real

I REMEMBER!

by DR. DEBBIE LANIER

Those school pictures from back in the day run together, don’t they? I can’t for the life of me decipher which grade each one represents unless I find Mama’s scribbling on the back.

But, with one picture, I don’t wonder for even a second. I remember like it was yesterday: fifth grade, my departure from “little people” to “big leagues!”

Just days before my middle school debut, my neighbor called. She invited me to her house. I could tell by Lanette’s excitement that I needed to hustle!

I darted to the door but had no time to even catch my breath. There she stood, wondering what took so long. She grabbed my sweaty arm and dragged me to her room. There, across her bed, lay a lavish display of new clothes right out of the pages of those luxurious catalogs.

I stood “oohing” and “ahhing” as this fashionista modeled a slew of outfits. Every ensemble rocked! We coordinated a drop-deadgorgeous look for every day of the week, with leftovers!

I felt sheer exhilaration for her. She was already beautiful. Now, she sported the wardrobe to match!

I couldn’t help but daydream about such things. While other students emptied the girls’ department at Belk in preparation for the big day, fashion attire wasn’t even a blip on our radar. My single mama worked three jobs just to keep things afloat for her four, mostly ungrateful, children. My cousins’ hand-me-downs sufficed as “school clothes.”

For days, I pondered the beautiful outfits hanging in my friend’s closet. One pair of overalls especially fueled my affections. I described every detail to Mama, including the embroidery on the front pocket, more than a few times.

Little did I realize that each time I mentioned those overalls, it likely put a dagger straight through Mama’s heart. My deep longings reminded her all over again of her inability to provide for us what other children automatically assumed.

The night before my first day of school, Mama came into my room to pray with me before bed. (What I wouldn’t give to have just one of those prayer times back! Just one! I considered it drudgery then, but Mama knew each prayer secured another piece of my foundation. Such a wise woman!)

Imagine my utter shock when I opened my eyes, and right in front of me laid those larger-than-life overalls with the beautiful embroidery on the front!

I leapt out of that bed so swiftly I nearly toppled her. (Now that I’m a mama, I grasp the joy she received watching my joy.)

Of course, I wore my new bibs that first day. Never mind that it was August – I strutted those velvet overalls as if snow coated the ground! Every time I put them on, I felt beautiful. And, yep! Those coveted duds obviously made the cut for school pictures!

I don’t begin to know what Mama forfeited to buy those overalls. I guess I’ll never know. But, I’ll never forget the price she paid to make me feel beautiful. I was too young and immature to realize it then, but it was never truly the outfit that made me feel special; it was Mama’s sacrificial love that wrapped around me every time I wore them.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the remarkable mamas who sacrifice so much to make all the pieces fit. Your children may not recognize it now, but they will. It matters!

For comments or prayer, please contact Dr. Lanier at HopeCommunityChurch.tv.

Faith OVER Fear: The Fight Behind Stroke

by LAUREN SEGERS, AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION

“I had begun to grieve who I was,” said Carmen Palmer, a stroke survivor from Winston-Salem. “It took me almost three years to get to the point where I said, ‘I am okay – I am no longer mourning who I was.’”

It was June of 2018 when Carmen first noticed a change in her vision. “I had run a marathon six months prior to my stroke, so my body was in great condition,” she shared. Since Carmen was in wonderful physical shape, she never suspected anything was wrong.

After observation and MRI procedures, Carmen soon found out she had developed a benign tumor behind her right eye on her optic nerve and went to the hospital for surgery in July of 2019. The tumor was entangled around Carmen’s carotid artery and during the surgery, an artery collapsed, leading to a stroke. The doctors came out to speak to her family in the seventh hour of the six-hour surgery. The physicians shared with her family that there was nothing they could do but make her comfortable. As a family of faith, Carmen’s husband Keith Palmer replied, “No – get back in there – that’s not what we prayed for.” The doctors said it was a miracle that Carmen survived.

At just 45 years old, Carmen had experienced a stroke on the right side of her brain, affecting the left side of her body. She lost vision in both her eyes and could not drive for about six to seven months. “I would wake up some days crying – because I couldn’t get up and run 20 miles or go to the gym and workout for two hours. I was mourning the old me.”

What was supposed to be a four to five day stay in the hospital postsurgery turned into six weeks of rehab learning how to walk again. “It was very traumatic for me,” Palmer recalled. “It was very traumatic for my family, as well.” She was so used to being independent, having to depend on other people was hard for her. “I had to make sure the right people were with me. My family which included my three children and my church family were very critical in my recovery process,” shared Carmen. During physical therapy, for a while, she worked on standing up and sitting down. “It’s a daily process that I’m still going through,”

(continued on page 18)

JODIE BRIM CREATIVE

(continued from page 16)

Palmer said. “Daily I had to tell myself, Carmen you are strong, and this is only temporary.”

With the help of her daughters who took her to and from appointments, Carmen returned to work as the owner and broker in charge at Master Key Realty. By Carmen’s willpower and her faith in God, she was able to make a remarkable recovery.

Now, at 50 years old, Carmen runs up to three miles twice a week and, with the help of her trainer, she eventually plans to run her third marathon. “The stroke really defined me,” Palmer said. “I always say that running helped define me – but the stroke defined me even more. And, I know I have purpose on this earth.”

Carmen Palmer, a proud American Heart Association 2023 Triad Go Red Woman, realtor at Blue Door Group Real Estate and member of the Great Commission Community Church, shares her story in hopes of helping other women fight their way back from heart disease and stroke. “I want everyone to know that if they believe they can do it, they will overcome the obstacles that are in front of them,” said Carmen.

Cardiovascular disease continues to be the number one killer of women in the United States. Not all, but most heart and strokerelated events can be largely prevented with lifestyle changes, such as knowing your vital numbers, moving more, eating smarter and managing vital health numbers including blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar.

The American Heart Association is celebrating 100 years of saving lives and pioneering scientific discoveries. For two decades, the Triad Heart Ball campaign has supported those efforts in driving change, funding science and improving heart and stroke health for everyone.

Through the Triad Heart Ball and the Novant Health Rehabilitation Hospital Platinum Sponsorship, large F.A.S.T. letters are currently being displayed as part of an educational campaign throughout the Triad. This display encourages community members to learn how to spot the warning signs of a stroke with F.A.S.T. “F” stands for face drooping. “A” stands for arm weakness. “S” stands for speech difficulty. “T” stands for time to call 9-1-1. If a person shows any symptoms, even if their symptoms go away, 9-1-1 should be called and the person should go to the hospital immediately.

The Triad Heart Ball is sponsored by Live Fierce. Life is Why Sponsor, Novant Health, Signature Sponsor, Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist and Platinum Sponsor, Novant Health Rehabilitation Hospital, an affiliate of Encompass Health. The event includes a Roaring 20s theme in celebration of the American Heart Association’s 100th birthday, a silent auction, live auction, gourmet dinner and live entertainment.

For more information about the Triad Heart Ball or to donate to help fight heart disease and stroke in the Triad, scan the QR code or visit heart.org/TriadHeartBall.

Tuesday

Friday

Sunday

Best Asian Best Sushi Runner Up

Day Self CareNational

by JEAN MARIE JOHNSON

It’s long been recognized that loving others begins with loving oneself. The same can be said of self-care, a natural extension of self-love. And yet, despite our best efforts, we tend to let this critical practice drop to the bottom of our ever-expanding “To Do” lists. The festering problem is that, when self-neglect chips away at self-care, we run out of steam – emotionally and physically.

I struggle with this, too. I can find a thousand things to tend to rather than turning on YouTube and working out with a smiling, energetic and uber-fit Pilates or Yoga guru. I’ll click off and tell myself that I’ll do it tomorrow. But, with self-care as my focus, I’ve developed a new strategy that’s working! I select an eight- or 10-minute session because I know that something is always better than nothing. With the end game in near sight, I push myself through. Nine times out of 10, I feel pumped enough to try another short session, mixing things up with a different instructor. Before I know it, I’ve clocked 20 or 30 minutes – which is so much better than nothing at all!

My dear friend, author, counselor and hypnotist Meg Reilly advocates fiercely for self-care and goes way beyond simply marking National Self Care Day:

“I encourage you to spend the next month focusing on compassion for yourself. You cannot take care of those that you love if you are not in good health yourself. You cannot contribute to your community or make your mark on the world if you do not begin with compassion for yourself. Be sure that you are attending carefully and honestly to your own mental and physical health. Put yourself first. This may sound selfish or simply impossible. It’s neither. It doesn’t have to be anything that’s huge or hard or all-in-all-at-once. Find small ways and persist. In order to live the golden rule – to love your neighbor as you love yourself – you have to love yourself. Do the inward work first. You can.”

Yes indeed: you can. Here’s how:

PUT YOUR NAME ON IT

Begin by giving yourself a good 20 or 30 minutes to write down those activities that help you to feel calm, confident or content. I love this trio of words because, together, they conjure up a variety of appealing activities which are the beginning of a personal template, a self-care prescription that has your name on it.

IDENTIFY A FEW “STAYING IN” ACTIVITIES

Consider:

• Cozying up with magazines and a cup of Chai tea

• Walking or stretching

• Putting on some soothing music or tunes from “your era”

• Buying yourself some flowers that will smile back at you

• Watching that movie you’ve been dying to see

• Teaching yourself a new skill

IDENTIFY A FEW “GOING OUT” ACTIVITIES

Consider:

• Visiting one of our cool W-S bookstores or going to a museum for inspiration

• Taking yourself out on a day trip – treating it like a date with yourself

• Scheduling a true spa day that you can look forward to

• Taking yourself to a nice lunch

• Window shopping to fill your head with new stimulation and creative input

Now, translate these ideas into commitments by scheduling a few near-term activities. Then move to your longer-term calendar. Maybe one Sunday a month becomes a self-care day. Or one day a quarter is reserved for self-care. You may have Personal Time Off, or PTO, from work. While you may typically spend this time with your family, or on vacation, why not zero in on a few days that are all about you taking care of yourself? My sister, a medical social worker, schedules one day a quarter to slow down, to regroup, to recharge from within. And she definitely takes herself out to lunch! Figure out what will work for you. Remember: It’s your prescription; it has your name on it!

National Self Care Day is a prompt to remind us to take a break and take care of ourselves – even in small ways and with small starts.

INTEGRATING Work AND Life

Most of us juggle multiple hats as we try to blend our professional and personal lives. We fulfill distinct roles such as employee, parent, spouse, friend, and community member. And we have a limited amount of energy, so we need to figure out what to devote our time to and how to make it all work without becoming a stressed out, tired mess.

The term work/life balance is commonly used to describe this phenomenon. However, I believe work/life integration is a more accurate descriptor because it is about blending work and personal life into one entity, rather than dividing time and energy to try to make them balance. The key is making sure the various aspects of your life are not at odds but flow together to create steadiness in your day.

Work/life integration is more challenging than ever. The boundaries between work and home used to be clear. But the pandemic has shaken up the way we work, and the walls of the workplace have blurred. Technology has given us the ability to work 24/7. Now, you can message your boss from the grocery store, mute a conference call to talk to a family member, or work on your laptop while your daughter is at dance practice. You cannot turn off work completely, nor can you turn off life at work.

We tend to want to be superwomen and excel in all areas of our lives. Unfortunately, “you can have it all” is a myth. Life is about making choices so, for everything you choose, you let go of something else. People who try to do it all end up cranky, frustrated, and disappointed.

by LESLIE SPEAS

If you struggle with work/life integration, here are ten strategies to consider.

1. GET YOUR PRIORITIES CLEAR

Visualize your life as a pie, and the components of your life as slices (career, spiritual, family, friends, community, hobbies, travel, health). Ask yourself, “What are my main things?” and list your top five. Once you are clear on your priorities, consider dropping any commitments and pursuits that didn’t make the cut.

2. LEARN TO SAY NO

Remember that you can’t do it all. Consider saying no to things that do not fit in your priorities. It’s okay!

3. OUTSOURCE

Hire others to take care of tasks so you can focus on what is most meaningful. Perhaps you could hire someone to clean your house or secure a babysitter once a week to get your errands done.

4. COMMUNICATE BOUNDARIES SO YOU CAN UNPLUG

Set and communicate your work hours to colleagues and customers so that you have clear boundaries. Let them know when you will be available and when you will not.

5. DELEGATE TASKS

Delegate tasks at work and home when possible. Maybe lean on a coworker to help you at work, or ask the kids and spouse to help around the house.

6. MANAGE YOUR TIME

This might include activities like organizing household tasks efficiently, running errands in batches, bundling your tasks, or keeping a daily or weekly to-do list.

7. TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF

You cannot take care of others or perform well at work if you don’t take care of yourself. You know what to do! Exercise, eat well, get seven to eight hours of sleep per night. If you need

to make improvements in your lifestyle, start small, one habit at a time. And make sure you set aside time each day for an activity that you enjoy such as reading, meditating, or listening to music.

8. ASK FOR HELP

Sometimes we are hesitant to ask for help because we don’t want to admit we need it, or we don’t want to bother anyone. Instead, consider that asking for help gives other people the gift of giving — and most people like helping others and providing support.

9. ASK FOR FLEXIBILITY

Consider asking for a work schedule that meets your needs as well as those of your employer. This could include flextime, a compressed workweek, job sharing, or other creative options.

10. PRACTICE SELF-COMPASSION

Let go of perfectionism! Your house doesn’t have to be perfect. Your kids don’t have to be dressed perfectly. Your work doesn’t have to be perfect. Shift towards a more compassionate approach and give yourself a break.

Not sure how to put these strategies into action? Developing an action plan will help. Write your vision of what each piece of your pie (your priorities) would look like if they were well integrated. Next, list three actions that you will take to improve and then, hold yourself accountable for implementing your plan!

HAIR STUDIO

An Intimate, Inclusive

SALON EXPERIENCE

by KATIE MAXEY, photo by JEJ PHOTOS

What started as a small dream 15 years ago, has turned into a thriving high-end specialty salon, owned and operated by Amber Woodall, a long-time resident of Winston-Salem. Amber has combined her passions of art and color to create an inclusive, modern studio located in West End. When you walk into Alkali Hair Studio, you can expect welcoming, modern vibes and a laid back, intimate experience. You are greeted by friendly receptionists and given time to look at their retail space while sipping refreshments before being taken to a private bay where your stylist will provide custom services to give you that signature look you’ve been wanting!

Amber states that her studio is set apart from others because of the extensive global training of her team and the diversity of her staff and clients. Her goal is to provide high quality services with a team that is kind and respectful and listens to the clients’ needs and style preferences. Her team is a strong cohesive unit, and she is focused on ensuring her stylists are highly trained and feel equipped to provide personalized services. In fact, stylists at Alkali have received many awards and titles for their custom services. Because of Alkali’s highly trained and knowledgeable stylists, they are part of a Titanium Tier Inner Circle with Kao, Goldwell Color and Oribe Hair Care which is an elite group of salon partners. They have also been voted as the Triad’s best places to work, and most recently, Alkali became part of the top 200 salons in North America for the third year in a row! This time, it was all about the growth and client-focused appointments that Alkali created. Amber designed a system that allowed stylists to only have one client at a time, being able to focus on the needs and desires of that client, without putting another appointment in between services. “Not only is the client more satisfied with the experience, but I found that this method also increased staff morale,” said Amber.

In addition to one-on-one appointments, clients will no longer have to question the total cost of the appointment because Alkali has moved to a time-based pricing system. This system allows stylists to recommend products and services to get the clients preferred look without each service costing a separate amount. And, if all of this wasn’t enough growth for Alkali, Amber has recently expanded and added a medical spa to the studio. A medical spa helps to blend medical technology and traditional spa treatments under one roof. Alkali knows that beauty and confidence isn’t just about hair! The team at Alkali now includes a physician and physician assistant, in addition to an esthetician. This med/spa team works together to provide services that include medical-grade skin care

recommendations, Botox, Juvederm, radio frequency microneedling, chemical peels, revitalizing eye facials and a range of facial and HydraFacial options. To get you started, the med/spa team offers free skincare consultations to design and customize a treatment plan to target the root cause of your skin challenges. And, because it’s not just about the hair, we can’t forget that Alkali continues to offer brow and lash services as well as makeup application for your next night out or special event!

And, to think this all started with Amber’s original dream to provide a high-end salon specializing in custom-tailored color. Now, as of December 2023, Amber has stopped providing hair services personally to shift focus to the business. She wants to grow her team members and provide opportunities to them that aren’t typically found in a trade environment. Amber’s driven personality and business-focused goals has shaped her team to become craft hairdressers with extensive knowledge that values each other and their clients. “The non-competitive, inclusive culture of my team is so unique, and I’m so proud of what we’ve built here!” she says. If you want hair and skin that you can feel confident in, the Alkali team is where it’s at.

Find out more about Alkali by visiting the website at studioalkali.com or following them on Instagram @alkalihairstudio. They are located at 407 West End Boulevard. You can reach them at 336.724.1453.

We are so excited to finally announce Elizabeth Boles Blankenship, MMS, PA-C is now a part of the Alkali Beauty Lab's team! After graduating from Wake Forest University in 2004, Elizabeth earned her Master’s degree in medical science from Wake’s Physician Assistant program in 2006.

She brings with her more than 10 years of experience working in plastic & reconstructive surgery and aesthetics. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and 2 children. Her must-have skincare product is Skin Medica's TNS. She will begin seeing patients for Botox, Juvederm, and RF Microneedling.

Elizabeth Boles Blankenship, PA-C

by TARYN JEREZ

A monthly column that keeps its finger on the pulse of Forsyth’s artists and their inspiring stories!

Michelle Schenker | Watercolor & Mixed Media Artist

This month’s featured creator, Michelle Schenker, is a nature-inspired artist on a perpetual journey of discovery, captivated by the ever-unfolding narratives whispered by the natural world.

How would you describe your work?

One person’s trash reimagined into a beautiful treasure. You will discover found materials and breathtaking nature at the heart of nearly all of my pieces. Finding ways to blend the two into new creations of beauty is where my artistic passions lie. Using collage, watercolors, printmaking and lots of glue, I unearth the unexpected magnificence that is all around us in our natural landscapes.

What influences your art?

There are aspects of the natural world in literally every piece of art I create. I have always spent a lot of time exploring nature while on hikes, walks, kayaking or just looking out my window. I love the beauty in the unpredictability and imperfections surrounding us. When I’m at the beach, I always notice the broken shells and wonder about the story of the creature that used to inhabit them. When in a garden, I marvel as some of the flowers bloom and others shrivel away to allow the bloomers to thrive.

How have you evolved, personally, as an artist?

I found my way to art during the pandemic when a friend invited me to an online watercolor art therapy class. I fell in love with watercolors and artistic expression, dedicating all my nights and weekends to my new passion and taking classes. I started sharing my work on Instagram and participating with its supportive community of artists. I also started a 100-day project where I committed to making and sharing a piece each day for 3+ months. This project really pushed me to grow and stretch as an artist, as I experimented with different mediums, finding my way to collage, acrylic paint, stencils and mixing it all together into mixed media.

How do you carve out time to be creative?

My husband and I have our own content marketing business that we run as our “day jobs.” But in the evening, I work in my studio and try to catch a few moments before the sun sets to see where my art is heading under natural light. Life gets so busy, but I strive to always prioritize time for art knowing the impact it makes on my own emotions. I have the goal to put a paintbrush on paper, cut out some images to use in collage or glue something down every single day. More often than not, once I start, it’s hard to stop.

Do you have a favorite story behind one of your pieces and why?

I have a collage that I made with an image of my grandparents; a piece of vintage lace and hand-painted papers. Putting it together was a deeply meditative experience as I recalled so many wonderful memories with my Granny and Papa. Being able to make treasures from people’s memories, commemorating special people or pets, has become such an interesting and invigorating part of my art practice. I especially love commissions to make pet portraits or to find a way to memorialize their recently passed loved one. It is such an honor to hold space and create something meaningful for the family.

What are you working on that excites you right now?

I recently decided that I want to learn to paint faces; afterall, people are part of nature as well! Not necessarily photo-real faces or even ones of people I know, but ones of my own imagination. I started taking a class that shares artistic instruction of creating faces from seven different artists from around the world. I am super excited to see each of their styles and how they work their magic. I’m also curious to see how my voice comes out in this new subject!

What is one piece of advice you’d like to share with fellow artists, especially those at the start of their careers?

If you make any sort of art or craft, YOU ARE AN ARTIST. Don’t let anyone else tell you anything different. Be confident in yourself and how you are showing up in your art. If you think it’s too weird, you are probably on the right track. Be true to yourself, and your audience will find you.

If you are interested in learning more about this month’s artist, Michelle Schenker, you can find her work online at MichelleSchenker.com as well as follow her on Instagram @michelle.schenker.art.

The Power of Protein

by JANE BURNETTE

www.healthcoachjane.com IG @coachjanebb FB @coachjanebb

In the quest for longevity and vitality, one nutrient stands out for its foundational role in our health and well-being – protein. Often overshadowed by the latest diet trends, the power of protein extends far beyond building muscles. It’s the very scaffolding of life, responsible for nearly all the cellular work in our bodies. From the strength of our muscles to the resilience of our immune system, protein is pivotal.

MUSCLE: THE FOUNDATION OF HEALTH

Muscle is considered the organ for longevity. Its condition is a crucial determinant of overall health, influencing how effectively our bodies burn carbohydrates and fat. This metabolic powerhouse does more than just support movement; it’s instrumental in managing blood sugar levels and cholesterol, safeguarding us against common health issues.

Yet, the significance of muscle extends beyond these physiological roles. The composition of our body – our muscle mass relative to body fat – is a critical, yet often overlooked, aspect of health. In a culture fixated on weight loss at any cost, the vital importance of muscle is lost. Crash dieting and excessive exercise lead to muscle loss, slower metabolism and an undesirable increase in body fat over time.

THE CRUCIAL ROLE OF PROTEIN

At the heart of muscle health is protein. This macronutrient, composed of amino acids, is essential for more than just muscle repair and growth. It’s a critical player in the structure, function and regulation of all tissues and organs. Dietary protein impacts everything from how we feel satisfied after a meal to how our bodies regulate blood sugar levels.

The roles of protein in the body are vast and varied:

• Immunity: Protein structures form antibodies that defend against viruses and bacteria.

• Enzymatic Reactions: Without proteins, crucial metabolic processes would grind to a halt.

• Hormonal Balance: Proteins are integral to the production of hormones that regulate everything from growth to blood sugar.

• Cellular Repair: Proteins repair damaged cells and construct new ones when necessary.

ACHIEVING BALANCE: A NEW APPROACH TO NUTRITION

The typical eating pattern, characterized by a heavy dinner and minimal protein intake during earlier meals, falls short in supporting muscle protein synthesis. This imbalance not only affects our muscle health but contributes to fat storage and blood sugar issues, as well.

In contrast, a balanced approach – splitting high-quality protein intake evenly across three daily meals – ensures that amino acid levels are optimal for muscle health and metabolism. This method, recommending at least 30g of protein per meal, is not just about quantity but also about quality and timing.

PRACTICAL TIPS FOR INCORPORATING MORE PROTEIN

Incorporating sufficient protein into each meal might seem daunting, but it’s achievable with a few strategic choices:

• Breakfast: Consider protein shakes or eggs as convenient, high-protein starts to the day.

• Lunch and Dinner: Focus on lean meats, fish or plant-based proteins, accompanied by whole unprocessed carbs and vegetables.

• Snacks: Opt for nuts, Greek yogurt or cottage cheese for protein-rich snack options.

THE BENEFITS OF PRIORITIZING PROTEIN

Prioritizing protein in your diet can optimize your health, offering benefits that extend far beyond muscle mass:

• Metabolic Efficiency: Protein consumption increases calorie burning through digestion, aiding weight management.

• Satiety and Energy: High-protein meals can prevent binging by keeping you fuller for longer, providing sustained energy.

• Physical Resilience: Adequate protein supports muscle health, reducing the risk of falls and aiding in recovery.

• Body Recomposition: Combined with strength training, a protein-focused diet can help shift body composition towards a more muscular, leaner physique.

Embracing the power of protein is not about adhering to a rigid diet but about making informed choices that support your body’s needs. By focusing on protein, you can enjoy a more vibrant lifestyle, marked by better health, more energy and improved well-being. This is not a quick fix but a sustainable path to a healthier future. For support, optimizing protein, sign up to receive updates on my next Protein-First challenge by visiting bit.ly/PFCwaitlist.

A little about me:

My name is Jane Burnette, and I’m passionate about health and wellness. As a holistic health coach with a degree from UNC Chapel Hill and numerous certifications, I specialize in lifestyle changes that empower people to achieve their health goals.

My mission is simple – guide clients to optimize their daily habits, so their bodies’ natural healing processes can kick in. Rather than focus on diets or quick fixes, I teach sustainable strategies for nutrition, exercise, stress relief and more.

With limited inventory remaining, don’t miss out on this chance to experience premium maintenance-free living. Enjoy exclusive amenities like our indoor swimming pool, dining venues, fitness center, salon/barber, library, and more. Located in the heart of Winston-Salem on a 46-acre wooded campus, residents of our Life Plan Community enjoy a world of opportunities. Act now and take advantage of this incredible value!

PEOPLE OF PROMINENCE SERIES

by MICHAEL JOHNSON

Amber T. Harris

Amber T. Harris is the Executive Director of SPARK (Share Peace and Rekindle Kindness, Inc.) which designs and manages community service experiences in order to help our neighbors in need and spread kindness to all.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR FORMATIVE YEARS, WHERE WERE THEY SPENT? WAS COMMUNITY SERVICE IMPORTANT TO YOU FROM EARLY ON?

I grew up in Floyd, VA. Floyd is a small town, and embracing community is key to how life works there. Supporting neighbors and serving one another is a natural rhythm to growing up in such an intimate setting nestled in the blue ridge mountains. Community service became part of my heartbeat as a teenager. I worked to embrace a posture of being present and holding people close when they were experiencing harder times and then celebrating together when joy came.

WHAT WAS THE ULTIMATE CATALYST THAT LED YOU TO THIS PLACE OF SERVICE?

I enjoy being creative. The catalyst was when I realized I could be creative and emphasize partnership and collaboration with designing hands-on service-learning opportunities. Short-term service experiences have always been full of inspiring experiences for me. Service experiences that recharge and are full of momentum for serving others and creating a posture of meeting people where they are in life.

WHAT DOES SPARK STAND FOR, AND WHAT IS ITS ULTIMATE MISSION?

Share Peace and Rekindle Kindness

SPARK designs and manages community service opportunities for groups in order to help our neighbors in need and spread kindness to all. This happens through partnering with local organizations and sacred spaces to fan a community’s flame by serving and meeting every person where they are.

SPEAK TO YOUR INTERPRETATION OF THE WORD “FAITH” AND HOW IT IS WOVEN INTO YOUR WORK.

I’m an ordained minister in the Church of the Brethren. I don’t always get to say that, and I’m at peace with that. My work with SPARK is about doing. However, doing requires listening well while inspiring others to also listen more. Faith is trusting a higher power is working for our good and our peace. For me, this higher power is God. I live out my faith through serving alongside all people, embracing the fullness of who we’re all created to be, as well as inviting others to experience how joyful a lifestyle of service together can be.

WHAT IS THE ONE THING YOU WANT THE READERSHIP TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR ORGANIZATION?

At the foundation of SPARK’s work, we want to honor and sustain partnerships with organizations, churches, neighborhoods and community members doing pivotal work. SPARK wants to be known for listening well. Service “projects” can often be seen as an experience for those who “have much” for folks who “have little.” We want to change the conversation to be around service with rather than service for. We’re trying to change this conversation by delving into service-learning, sharing the reasons for serving and the narratives and truths of why the needs exist. Service-learning is

incredible, but it can be hard for volunteers who are eager to “do good.” The more we know about the systems, knowing the names of neighbors we’re serving and the reasons can be tough. One day we may be creating postcards for Senior Services’ Meals on Wheels program, and the next day we’re building something with hammers and nails.

WHAT CAN PEOPLE DO TODAY TO GET INVOLVED IN THE COMMUNITY?

We mostly work with groups because we believe that when a team, business/corporation, neighborhood, class, etc. serves, they grow stronger while serving alongside one another. This process is something we’re proud. Designing an opportunity to serve while handling the logistics and collaborative elements so that a group can gain strength and grow in intentionality is one step toward strengthening the community as a whole. Some of our year-round initiatives that are always available for individuals and groups to sign-up for are through working with the Community Coat Closet that SPARK sponsors; serving at our after school program at Peacehaven Mobile Home Park; and through serving with our Pearl Program working on furniture to help neighbors transitioning into their new homes. Folks can always reach out to us to design a project unrelated to these initiatives for their small or large group. We listen to the passions and interests of the group and then work to design a project through community partnerships and current needs. We also ask questions surrounding important things to know about the group like if the group needs to stay at their office to serve rather than be out and about. Believe it or not, there are incredible hands-on projects that can be done anywhere that serve community needs.

WHO DO YOU NOMINATE AS A PERSON OF PROMINENCE AND WHY?

Linda Dark with Odd Fellows Cemetery. Linda is kind and she is determined. She is incredible to work with, and it is so clear when you’re with her that she wants the history, present and future of Odd Fellows Cemetery to be honored through knowing more and serving on-site to experience this history in our community.

It’s Nice to Meet You.

If you don’t already bank at Piedmont Federal, you might not recognize us. Perhaps because we recently updated our branding.

Whether you’re an old friend or a new one, our commitment to serving this community is time-tested and unwavering. Now we’re just better dressed for the occasion.

Let’s look forward together.

Spring Cleaning Your Pantry

by KATIE MAXEY, RD, IBCLC

When was the last time you cleaned your pantry from top to bottom? A deep, thorough cleaning of your pantry is helpful to do once or twice a year. If you cannot remember the last time you cleaned out the pantry, don’t worry, it’s okay. Most of us don’t think to deep clean our pantry like we do other areas of our house. What we know, however, is that foods tend to sit there for months and even years. Before we know it, we have expired food taking up space that could have been eaten or donated. Think of cleaning your pantry when you’re spring cleaning your house. Did you just finish getting rid of your winter clothes and coats that didn’t fit this season? Now, turn your attention to the food, spices and oils that you haven’t used in a while! It’s good to go through it all, donate what you do not think you will eat and plan to begin using some of the foods that have been tucked on the back of the shelf before it’s too late!

Spring cleaning your pantry can help you save money, help you feel organized, reduce the clutter of your pantry and kick-start your meal planning goals with the foods you have forgotten that were in there. You can do one big overhaul in a day, or you can tackle it shelf by shelf and do a little at a time. As you are pulling items off the shelves, not only are you able to clean up the food that is there, but you can wipe down any spills or residue on the shelves, as well. (We’re talking about you, honey container!) As you put the food back on the shelves, do you want to organize it like it was? Or do you find that you want to put some items in a bin, so they don’t tip over? Or maybe they need to be at a level that your children can get to. Rethink the storage of where foods are within your pantry, and make it make sense for yourself and your family.

When cleaning your pantry, make sure you look at expiration dates. Toss it if it’s expired. If it’s close to expiring, think about whether you are going to use it or not. If not, create a pile to donate. There are plenty of food pantries in the area that would love to have your unopened foods.

Tips for expiration dates:

• Spices and herbs should be used within a year of opening. If you are unsure how long a spice has been open, you may want to replace it with a new container. It can be helpful to write on the bottom of the spice or herb the date that you open it, so when you clean the pantry again, you know how long it’s been open.

• Some oils, especially if you are not using them frequently, can go rancid if sitting in the pantry unused. If it looks questionable and you can’t remember the last time it was used, toss it.

• For canned goods, organize them in order of expiration date as you’re putting them back in your pantry. The ones that expire sooner, put them at the front. Meal plan with those sooner than the canned goods at the back of the shelf.

• If you have nuts in your pantry, think about placing them in the freezer. They will last longer stored in the freezer than in the pantry.

• Some baking supplies, like baking soda, can be used for cleaning if it’s past its expiration date.

As you toss or place items in the donation pile, make sure you have your grocery list handy to write down what you need to replace. As you put food back on the shelves, look at what you might be missing that are staples for yourself and your family. Stock up on items that you use often, and plan meals for any items that will be expiring soon! It may be daunting now as you are going through each food item, but in the end, you will have a refreshed pantry, and you will feel good about the items that are in the pantry. You may even have a start on next week’s meal plan knowing some of the items are expiring soon. You’ve got this – happy spring cleaning!

Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter at forsythwoman.com to receive monthly Girls’ Night Out event reminders!

Girls’ Night Out

Tuesday, April 9th | 5pm until

Grab your mom, your sister, your girlfriends and/or your co-workers and join Forsyth Woman Magazine for a much needed Girls’ Night Out! As always, we’ll have our prize board with tons of awesome prizes!

Be sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook at @forsythmags for reminders and updates about our monthly GNO events!

Things to Look Forward to For The 13

by ANGELIA CORNATZER

The Lewisville-Clemmons Chamber of Commerce supports its members and community to connect, grow and thrive through special programming, events and education opportunities including Clemmons Community Day! Mark your calendars for Clemmons Community Day on Saturday, April 20th from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. This amazing day is made possible by our special sponsors: Allegacy Federal Credit Union, Marzano Capital Group, Jerry Long Family YMCA, Novant Health, Ivybrook Academy, WTOB Radio and Truliant Federal Credit Union.

1. LEWISVILLE CLEMMONS CHAMBER MEMBERS AND VOLUNTEERS!

This beloved event is a staple for the Clemmons community and something that the chamber members and volunteers look forward to all year long! They have been planning this remarkable event and looking forward to it since 2023.

13th Annual

businesses, food trucks, music, a dance off and much more!

11. THE CLEMMONS FARMERS MARKET!

5. FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!

Clemmons Community Day is truly a labor of love to showcase what is so special about Clemmons. From the bounce houses to the trackless train, your little ones will be jumping with joy as they explore this day to remember.

6. UNITING THE COMMUNITY!

You can expect to interact with so many different businesses and connect with other residents in the area as this day is all about uniting the community.

7. IT IS FREE!

2. RAIN OR SHINE!

Rain or shine, this family friendly day is a partnership of the Chamber of Commerce, Village of Clemmons and the Jerry Long Family YMCA. This special day is one that you just can’t miss, no matter the weather!

3. ONE STOP SHOP!

Whether you have been in Clemmons your entire life or have just been calling Clemmons home for a few months, Clemmons Community Day is a priceless one stop shop to meet 100+ community vendors and have a blast with your family! It is sure to be full of fun, information, connections and memories!

4. EXPERIENCE THE LOCAL COMMUNITY!

Get ready to have a blast as you experience the local community of Clemmons through its

If you are looking to learn what Clemmons is all about, this is your special day. Clemmons Community Day is a free event through the Lewisville-Clemmons Chamber of Commerce because of support from sponsors, vendors, volunteers and the space provided by the Jerry Long Family YMCA.

8. SUPPORT THE COMMUNITY!

Visitors are always encouraged to bring a food donation for the Clemmons Food Pantry, as this is a way we can support our community even more.

9. JOIN IN THE BIG FUN!

Clemmons Community Day has been an annual treat and is attended by 100+ vendors and 5,000+ people of all ages. What a special place to join in on the fun.

10. SWEETS AND TREATS!

It is sure that you will see sweets and treats as you make your way around our amazing vendors. You will get to support small businesses and satisfy your sweet tooth!

The Village of Clemmons will be kicking off the 2024 season of the Clemmons Farmers Market this day. Clemmons Community Day and the Farmers Market are happening on the same day, at the same time and place. Help us start off the season with the first Clemmons Farmers Market of 2024.

12. IT HAS AN IMPACT!

Lewisville-Clemmons Chamber President Kristin Johnson, says, “The word of the year for our Chamber is IMPACT! Clemmons Community Day is our annual effort to celebrate, champion and have FUN with our community. This effort has an impact on our business partnerships as sponsors and vendors in the form of visibility, exposure and opportunity to meet the community in which they serve. The effort has an impact on individuals who attend as it provides a safe, fun, energetic way to bring your entire family for a day of engagement. Music, food, farmers market, kids activities, YMCA programming, local vendors...we have a little bit of everything. Our goal is to have a positive impact on all those who are part of this wonderful day. We do hope you’ll join us!”

13. IT IS ALMOST HERE!

The 13th Annual Clemmons Community Day is coming soon as we await Saturday, April 20, 2024. Join us from 10:00 a.m.2:00 p.m. at the Jerry Long Family YMCA, 1150 S. Peace Haven Road, Clemmons. To learn more about Clemmons Community Day, visit LewisvilleClemmons.com, or call Executive Director Denise Heidel at 336.907.5100.

Classic Design

June DeLugas Interiors, Inc. takes pride in creating timeless spaces. Clients select us for this very reason. As spring is FINALLY in the air, the general population starts to feel change. People often see spring as a time to freshen up their homes – out with the old and in with the new. Whether it is modern, contemporary, transitional, cottage, romantic or traditional. Our clients come to us because they want a timeless classical design. When people invest in the services of an interior design team, they want the opinion of experienced professionals who can create a look they will enjoy for years to come, rather than one that bows to the latest fad or trend.

During April, homeowners seek out firms because they are preparing for a family gathering or simply know their home needs a tune up. Bathroom remodels normally take three to four months, depending on the extent of changes and orders. Kitchen remodels take more time to complete. Planning and selecting finishes and products take at least a month. When remodeling a kitchen, planning starts with a CAD drawing that is acceptable. The next step is the appliance selections.

Our firm researches cooking tops, refrigerators and ovens that best suit the needs of our clients. Lighting plans include necessary task lighting and accent lighting. LED lighting has improved to a point where we recommend replacing old recessed and under counter lighting with newer LEDs. Pricing has become more affordable and will continue to drop as technology improves. We design, collaborate with clients and figure out their overall desired decor, and therefore, we turnkey the project. We gather and process all the data and then make recommendations to the clients to create not only a beautiful space, but a space that can maximize the potential, as well.

When remodeling a master bedroom, we start the update by selecting windowtreatments, bedding, lighting and furnishings. Just like cars, our homes need a tune up after a certain number of miles. After 10 years, kitchens, bathrooms and furnishings begin to look tired. Sometimes all it takes is a little fine tuning from an expert. Put a professional designer in the driver’s seat to ensure you will have a smooth ride as youremodel your home. Give us a call today, and let us put you on the right path to creating a timeless look in your home!

God Bless,

June

PHOTO

by LAUREN SEPHTON

Hi! I’m Lauren. I’m a freelance writer and a food blogger with a passion for food that tastes good and is good for you! Stay tuned each month to find everything from achievable dessert ideas to healthy, quick dinners that’ll happily feed the family.

How to Perfectly Pan Sear Steak + Creamy Red Wine Sauce

Learn how to perfectly pan sear steaks better than the steakhouse, paired with a creamy red wine pan sauce for the ultimate steak dinner.

Servings: 4 Prep Time: 5 minutes Rest Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 45 minutes

INGREDIENTS

For the Steaks:

1 ½ - 2 lbs. New York Strip Steaks, or Top Sirloin or Ribeye

(about 1 lb. each steak, 1 ¼” thick)

1 T Olive Oil, or cooking oil of choice

1 ½ tsp. Fine Sea Salt

1 ½ tsp. Cracked Black Pepper

2 T Unsalted Butter, divided

2 sprigs Fresh Rosemary

For the Creamy Red Wine Pan Sauce:

3 T Butter

½ cup Old Westminster Pepper Pantry Wine

½ cup Heavy Cream

1 T Chives, chopped + more for garnishing

1 tsp. Dijon Mustard

Salt & Black Pepper, to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

1. For the Steaks: Let the steaks rest at room temperature for 20-30 minutes.

2. Pat your steaks dry with a paper towel. Season generously on all sides with salt, then black pepper.

3. Heat up a cast iron skillet or stainless-steel pan until very hot, then add the olive oil. Swirl the pan to coat the bottom in the cooking oil.

4. Add the steaks to the skillet to cook for 4 minutes, until a brown crust has formed.

5. Flip using tongs, then cook for another 3-4 minutes. Add the butter and rosemary once flipped.

6. For the last minute of cooking, use a spoon to baste the melted butter over the steaks.

7. Remove the steaks from the pan to rest for 10 minutes before slicing into ½” strips.

8. For the Pan Sauce: Add the butter, red wine, heavy cream, chives and dijon to the pan that cooked the steaks. Whisk until smooth and the butter is melted. Bring to a boil, then simmer 3-4 minutes until reduced. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

9. Serve the pan sauce over the sliced steaks and garnish with more chives to enjoy!

Purpose Push:

Divine Communication

How well do you communicate with those around you? Effective communication is the glue that holds a business together. Every person and role in your business should have clear channels of communication with each other and with you. If retention is important, remaining receptive to feedback and creating an environment that encourages your team to express their thoughts and concerns is a great leadership skill. God purposely designed humans to yearn for connection, and we need each other to thrive, especially in business. So, no matter your communication style, you can communicate effectively if you honor a couple of things:

COMMUNICATE WITH LOVE

Ephesians 4:29 tells us, “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”

Correcting your team members should not leave them feeling inferior or incompetent. Proverbs 18:21 says your words have the power of life and death. Communicating with love doesn’t always equate to a pleasant conversation, but coming from a place of empathy will make hard conversations easier because you are choosing to value the reality of humanity. After all, we all make mistakes, and most of us are receptive to constructive correction delivered with love and respect.

POSITIVE WORDS FIGHT BATTLES

Can you think of a time you were feeling low and a simple word from someone else changed your mood for the rest of the day? Encouraging words give life! By speaking positive words to others, you are helping them win their own personal battles over the enemy. You’ll never fully know what someone else is going through mentally, but you can make an impact by strengthening their hope and faith with your divine words. The enemy doesn’t even want you to have a team and is actively working to tear them down. A faith-based business will inevitably receive

Sheridan C. Watkins is a journalist and the owner of Perennial Peaces, a jewelry and gifts brand focused on transcending self-worth to all women. Her true work began after climbing out of a dark place with the help of God and therapy and her life mission is to provide tangible peace through her Divine gifts to help women heal and transform their life. Follow the mission on Instagram and Facebook: @perennialpeaces

by SHERIDAN C. WATKINS

attacks that can affect each person in the business if you aren’t being sensitive. If speaking positively does not come naturally to you, put Proverbs 16:23-24 where you can see it daily, so it can sink into your subconsciousness.

LEAVE THE DOOR OPEN

Keeping your channels open for honest feedback will make a difference in the internal health of your business. Proverbs 15:22 tells us, “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers, they succeed.” Digging deeper into this verse reveals you should not only welcome feedback but actively seek it! You need others to unveil a new perspective you’d likely never see on your own. If you’re leading a smaller

team, ensure that regular check-ins and team meetings create natural opportunities for feedback. For larger and growing companies, consider implementing anonymous ways to gather feedback. This might include surveys, suggestion boxes or platforms where your employees can express their thoughts without fear of repercussions. By creating these opportunities, you demonstrate a commitment to listening and evolving based on your team’s input.

As you navigate the intricate fabric of communication in your business, let love and openness be your guide for every word you utter and write. Remind yourself that you are indeed a great communicator, and you will see transformation sooner than you think. Let’s start talking! I have faith in you.

TAKING BACK YOUR LIFE

by MARTIE EMORY

photos by SAIL OFF PHOTOGRAPHY

Always supporting their community with new techniques that allow patients to resume active, productive lives, Aligned Health & Wellness is celebrating one year in their Winston-Salem location and sharing yet another practice expansion.

In January of 2024, due to the high demand for neuropathy expertise and to accommodate those traveling distances for care, they also launched a third location in Burlington, NC. As Drs. Jessica and Joshua Katz continue to expand their heartfelt care for patients that began in Kernersville in 2007, the husband-and-wife team remains true to their primary mission of empowering people to reclaim a life free of pain!

Knowledge is power, and Jessica and Joshua are honored to be part of your healing journey. They are pleased to offer the community a series of lunch-and-learn educational seminars on a new non-drug based approach to peripheral neuropathy with a 95% success rate. Seminars will be held every Tuesday in both April and May, beginning at 11:30 a.m., at the Olive Garden located at 170 Hanes Mall Circle in Winston-Salem. Reservations are required and can be made by calling the Aligned Health & Wellness office at 336.600.2477. If you’ve found yourself putting life “on hold” and shying away from long walks, gardening or outings with grandchildren, come hear what options may be available to you!

Current patient Kathy Beck, age 68, shares that other than neuropathy symptoms, she feels more like she’s 30!

“I have been dealing with this pain for seven or eight years, and a friend told me about one of the practice’s luncheons last September,” Kathy explains. “I had my first appointment with Dr. Jessica mid-October, and I’m definitely seeing results!”

Her praise for Aligned Health & Wellness is personal!

“They make you feel like you are their only patient,” she shares. “Jessica was fully focused on me, not a computer screen or a list of questions. She is honest and realistic, and the entire practice is so efficient and nice.”

For now, Kathy sees Dr. Jessica for testing every three months and participates in two sessions a day on both her feet and hands – at home, on her own.

“Jessica is very encouraging and knows life sometimes gets in the way,” adds Kathy. “If you can only get in one session daily, that’s still progress. And, I make sure my vitamin levels stay up.”

A retired teacher with a happy, active life filled with her grown children and beloved grandchildren, Kathy says she previously walked two miles every day, but had to give that up when her symptoms appeared. Paired with the rheumatoid arthritis she inherited on both sides of her family, the daunting idea of using a wheelchair keeps her motivated.

“I especially love walking on a sandy beach, but even that became too hard, and I needed a few days to recover,” she adds. At even the slightest mention of using a wheelchair on the beach, she knew she was in the right place – and in good hands – at Aligned Health & Wellness. Kathy says it’s the perfect team effort – they focus on the patient, and you do your part, as well!

Understanding Peripheral Neuropathy

Eliminating pain is the first step to returning patients to their previous activity levels and enjoying time with their family and friends. Dr. Jessica explains their goal is to treat neuropathy patients without surgery or the introduction of medications.

If you’ve recently received a diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy, you have questions, fears and possible misconceptions the doctors are eager to clarify. Peripheral neuropathy is defined as damage to the nerves of the

periphery – the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. For most, symptoms will begin intermittently in one extremity only. As the condition progresses, it can affect both limbs, pain becomes more frequent and intensity increases as the damage progresses. While every patient is different, progression may be slower in the earliest stage but can worsen rapidly later on. At your initial appointment, the doctors determine your stage of severity and the best treatment plans available.

While the reality is that there isn’t one single medication to cure neuropathy, that doesn’t mean nothing can be done to improve your situation!

“Nerve tissues need oxygen and nutrients (just like any other cell) to be able to rebuild and repair themselves effectively. The body is constantly rebuilding and repairing itself, and when there’s enough oxygen and nutrients, the process keeps our cells healthy. With neuropathy, the nerve cells aren’t getting enough oxygen and nutrients to sustain their health, let alone repair damaged tissues. We help those nerves heal by getting them the oxygen and nutrients they have been lacking,” explains Dr. Jessica.

While there are many causes of neuropathy, the most common are diabetes, chemical exposure or

exposure to toxins (chemotherapy, agent orange, some medications), injury and infections. About one-third of peripheral neuropathy cases are idiopathic, meaning the condition arises without an identifiable cause. Symptoms can vary widely because there are so many different types of peripheral nerves. Depending on which nerves are damaged, and how much damage has occurred, the most common symptoms are numbness, tingling, burning, itching, sharp or stabbing pain, throbbing, coldness, heaviness, sensitivity to touch, balance problems and weakness.

Discover more about their services devoted solely to peripheral neuropathy patients, or request an initial appointment at piedmonttriadneuropathy.com or by calling the Winston-Salem location at 336.600.2477. Aligned Health & Wellness is located at 663 Gralin Street in Kernersville, 336.390.9400, at 765 Highland Oaks Drive, Suite 200, in Winston-Salem, and their newest addition is conveniently located at 2929 Crouse Lane, Suite C, in Burlington, NC, 336.565.1028.

Wealthy families often find themselves grappling with how to effectively pass along assets to their children while ensuring those children are ready for the responsibility. As we tread towards the largest generational wealth transfer in history, there is a growing need to ensure those inheriting the assets are adequately prepared to handle them.

There are a variety of risks involved, including:

• Lack of Financial Literacy: Without proper financial education and guidance, heirs may struggle to manage their wealth effectively, leading to overspending or poor investment decisions.

• Entitlement Issues: Inherited wealth can sometimes foster a sense of entitlement, which may hinder your children’s motivation to work hard and achieve their goals independently.

Making Dollars, Making $ense

Protect Your Children From Their Inheritance

BY STEVEN GALLO, CFP®, FINANCIAL ADVISOR

• Predatory Influences: Wealth can attract unscrupulous individuals seeking to exploit your heirs, potentially leading to financial loss or ruin.

• Family Conflict: Inequities in inheritance distribution or differing views on how to manage family assets can lead to conflicts among siblings or other family members.

• Taxes and Legal Issues: Poor estate planning can result in substantial tax liabilities and legal disputes, eroding the value of the inheritance.

Each of these potential dangers can be mitigated through proper planning. The following are essential strategies for ensuring you and your heirs are prepared. As you read through them, take an honest self-assessment of whether or not you’ve “checked the box” or still have some work to do.

EDUCATE AND PREPARE

Begin by providing your children with a solid financial education. Encourage them to develop financial literacy and understand the principles of budgeting, investing and saving. Consider involving them in discussions about your family’s wealth and financial goals.1

IMPLEMENT A TRUST

Establishing a trust can be a powerful tool for protecting your children’s inheritance. A trust allows you to control the distribution of assets, set conditions for access and appoint a trusted trustee to manage the assets on your children’s behalf.2

GRADUAL WEALTH TRANSFER

Rather than transferring your entire estate to your children at once, consider a gradual approach. Structured distributions over time can help your heirs become accustomed to managing their wealth and reduce the risk of impulsive spending.

ENCOURAGE PHILANTHROPY

Instill a sense of responsibility and purpose in your children by involving them in charitable

activities and philanthropic endeavors. Creating a family foundation or donoradvised fund can be a meaningful way to teach them the importance of giving back.

PROFESSIONAL GUIDANCE

Engage the services of financial and legal professionals with expertise in estate planning and wealth management. They can help you structure your estate plan to minimize tax liabilities and navigate complex legal issues.

FACILITATE COMMUNICATION

Open and honest communication within the family is paramount. Encourage regular family meetings to discuss financial matters, estate plans and expectations. Clear communication can help prevent misunderstandings and disputes in the future.

UPDATE YOUR ESTATE PLAN

Review and update your estate plan regularly to ensure it reflects your current wishes and financial circumstances. Changes in tax laws or family dynamics may necessitate adjustments to your plan.

Protecting your children from their inheritance is not about depriving them of wealth or showing a lack of trust in them, but rather about ensuring they are equipped to handle it responsibly. By following these strategies, you can take proactive steps to safeguard your family’s legacy and provide your children with the tools they need to thrive in the world of wealth.

Sources:

1 Lieber, Ron. The Opposite of Spoiled: Raising Kids Who Are Grounded, Generous, and Smart About Money. HarperCollins, 2015.

2 The American Bar Association. Family Trusts Guide. americanbar.org/groups/ real_property_trust_estate/resources/ estate_planning

by THE CCC TEAM

For most of us, looking for a new coat is about style and comfort. But, have you ever thought about the friends and neighbors we have in our community who don’t have access to a coat to keep them warm, let alone one that makes them feel good? The Community Coat Closet is working to make sure everyone in Forsyth County has what they need to stay warm.

Founded in 2019, the CCC began as a project to fill a community need by providing coats for children at North Hills Elementary. As a partnership between SPARK and the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office Community Outreach Team, it has grown exponentially. In the last four years, distributions have increased immensely and, this past winter season, they distributed more than 1,000 coats to community members of all ages!

The CCC delivers to all schools in the WSFCS district, works with all local shelters and relies on partnerships within the community to help identify needs so they can be served. Founder Julie Fritz said, “We continue to make connections so that we can figure out how to serve everyone in our

Keeping Winston-Salem Warm

community. It’s vital for us to get our mission out to as many people as possible so that all our neighbors know that this resource is available.”

It takes a lot of volunteers to fill all the needs as they come in. If you feel compelled, there are lots of ways you can help. “We are dealing with a ton of moving parts to keep the CCC running, and we are always in need of volunteers and donors,” said Fritz. Interested volunteers can be used to organize the closet, make deliveries and work distribution events. You can also make a donation by visiting the website or dropping off new or gently used hats, gloves and scarves at any of their drop-off locations.

Fritz went on to say, “We are a small piece of a big puzzle working to serve all members of our community. But, that is what makes this community special. When we work together, serving schools, shelters and our most vulnerable neighbors, we can create a place where everyone feels loved and served. I believe that is the kind of place we all want to live in.”

Community Coat Closet is located in The Dwelling at 502 N. Broad Street, Winston-Salem, NC 27101. There are three drop-off locations for new and gently used coats, hats, gloves and scarves. Burkhead United Methodist Church (roundabout entrance) 5250 Silas Creek Parkway Winston-Salem, Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office (bin inside of the lobby) 301 N. Church Street Winston-Salem, Augsburg Community Center (Pilot View Street entrance) 502 N. Broad Street Winston-Salem.

For more information, you can visit the website at sparkcommunity.org/the-community-coat-closet or follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

GRILLED SKIRT STEAK

by TANNER JOHNSON

For April, I want to share a regular around my house that is always a big hit! Marinated, grilled skirt steak. This is marinated for a long time in some citrus juices, soy sauce and seasoning that gives it an unreal flavor once it hits that hot grill!

Ingredients:

• 1 skirt steak

• Juice of 1 orange

• Juice of 1 lemon

• Juice of 1 lime

• ¾ cup chopped cilantro

• ½ cup soy sauce

• 2 T minced garlic

• ½ cup olive oil

• 1-2 T of Spicewalla Carne Asada Seasoning

Instructions:

1. In a large Ziploc or whatever kind of receptacle to marinate in, combine all above ingredients and let this sit in the fridge for at least a few hours, preferably a day. However, if you have a chamber vacuum sealer that has a marinate function, you can do a cycle that will complete in about 15 minutes that will be equally as flavorful (if not more) than sitting in the fridge for 24 hours – I highly recommend this method, if possible.

2. Once you’re ready to start prepping things, fire up the grill and let the steak sit out at room temperature for about 30 minutes while the grill heats up.

3. Before it goes on the grill, I like

to put some of the carne asada seasoning on top of the steak, too. (Any kind of Mexican seasoning works as well or just a salt and pepper garlic mixture.)

4. For a skirt steak, you want to go hot and fast. I typically run my charcoal grill around 500-650 degrees and sear it off for about 15 minutes, flipping it periodically so it cooks evenly.

5. Pull it off once the thickest part of the steak is reading around 130135 internal temperature if you like a medium rare temperature.

6. Next, you’ll want to let the steak rest for about five minutes – and it will rise about five degrees during this time. Medium is my preference for a skirt steak, so pulling at 135 degrees after the rest should be at a perfect medium (140 degrees).

7. Lastly, the most important step, you’ll want to make one slice down the middle of the steak with the grain to then rotate it 90 degrees, so your individual slices will be cut against the grain. You want to make sure you’re cutting against the grain for your individual slices, so it will be nice and tender, not chewy.

8. Then, pile these delicious slices up on some tortillas or just eat them plain with some rice. I love these slices on a charred flour tortilla with some fresh cilantro and any other kind of taco toppings!

For more recipes and demos, follow Tanner on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook @919backyardbbq

required.

If you experience:

•

• Leg pain and discomfort

• Tired or heavy legs

• Bulging veins

• Spider veins

• Skin discoloration

THE ARISTOCATS (1970) RATED G

Eight Great Movies for Animal Lovers

by KAREN COOPER

If you are an animal lover and want to experience films which tell stories about special bonds created when animals cross our paths, here are eight films which should be on your watch list.

AIR BUD (1997) RATED PG

Duchess (Eva Gabor) and three kittens are well looked after when their devoted owner leaves her inheritance to care for them. The story takes an evil turn when the woman’s butler drugs the cats and abandons them far from home, so he can benefit from the fortune himself. While lost in unfamiliar territory, Duchess and the kittens meet Thomas O’Malley (Phil Harris), an alley cat who helps them return to their home in Paris. Along the way, they befriend a number of characters, including two English geese and an alley cat jazz band.

MY DOG SKIP (1994) RATED PG

Based on a Pulitzer Prize winning true story, this film is a simple pleasure about a boy, Willie (Frankie Muniz), and his beloved dog, Skip, growing up in 1940s Mississippi. Willie is a nine-year-old and doesn’t get along with his distant and overprotective father, Jack (Kevin Bacon), but Skip helps bridge the gap, and father and son, along with his mom, Ellen (Diane Lane), learn valuable lessons about love, loyalty and the importance of family.

BABE (1995) RATED G

Babe (Christine Cavanaugh) is a charismatic piglet who thinks he’s a sheepdog. Won at the county fair by kind farmer Arthur Hoggett (James Cromwell), Babe barely escapes his intended fate as Christmas dinner when the farmer decides to show him at the next fair. Meanwhile, Babe befriends a border collie named Fly (Miriam Margolyes) and discovers that he’s also a good sheep herder.

EIGHT

BELOW (2006) RATED PG

Hands down, the best movie out there about a dog who plays basketball! In the aftermath of his father’s death, teenager Josh (Kevin Zegers) is having a hard time adjusting to his new school. Things get better when he signs on to be the school basketball team’s manager and finds out his dog, Bud, happens to be great at the sport as well. Bud joins the team, and life for Josh looks up considerably until an unexpected twist threatens to spoil everything.

BECAUSE OF WINN-DIXIE (2005) RATED PG

Opal (AnnaSophia Robb) is a 10-yearold girl who has just moved to a small town in Florida with her preacher father (Jeff Daniels), and now must start all over again. Life has been tough and lonely for Opal since her mother abandoned them when she was three. When Opal’s father asks her to pick up a few things for dinner at the Winn-Dixie supermarket, her life is about to change in a big way. It’s here that she finds a big, shaggy mutt running loose in the store with clerks chasing after him. The store manager wants to call the pound, but Opal says the dog is hers, and his name is Winn-Dixie. Opal takes the dog home and, with him by her side, she learns how to meet friends and reconnect with her equally lonesome father.

Based on a true story, this film takes place in 1993 and focuses on three members of a scientific expedition, Jerry Shepard (Paul Walker), his friend Cooper (Jason Biggs) and an American geologist (Bruce Greenwood), who must leave their beloved sled dogs behind after a devastating accident and increasingly perilous weather conditions. On their own, the dogs struggle to survive the harsh Antarctic winter. This heartwarming tale about the bonds of friendship and loyalty may have you shedding a few tears.

BIG MIRACLE (2012) RATED PG

Adam Carlson (John Krasinski), a reporter based in a small town in northern Alaska, can’t wait to find a job in a bigger market. Then, the story of a lifetime practically lands in his lap when a family of gray whales is discovered near the Arctic Circle, trapped by rapidly forming ice. He enlists the help of his Greenpeace-volunteer ex-girlfriend Rachel Kramer (Drew Barrymore) and, together with a hoard of media, they work to rally international support to save the whales before it’s too late. Based on actual events, all the characters were based on the people that were involved in the whale rescue, and the stories told in the movie were all accurate. (Video clips and pictures following up on all the characters are shown at the end.)

BEARS (2014) RATED G

Filmmakers Alastair Fothergill and Keith Scholey record a year in the lives of an Alaskan brown bear named Sky and her cubs, Scout and Amber. Their story begins as the bears emerge from hibernation at the end of winter and, as the weeks and months pass, the bear family must work together to find food and stay safe from other predators, especially other bears. An up close and personal look at these magnificent creatures living life as a family.

WOMEN ON

AMY LOFLIN

SARAH MARCHWIANY

Sarah Marchwiany is the owner of Triad Moms on Main. She was born and raised in the suburbs of Chicago. She moved from Chicago to Durham to Boston and finally settled in Greensboro following her husband, Daniel, around for his orthopaedic surgery training. They have two daughters (two and four years old). She earned a bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene from Southern Illinois University. She worked full-time as a dental hygienist before having her girls. She wanted to have more flexibility to be able to spend more time with her kids, so she switched to temping in local dental offices. She is also a family photographer and recently purchased Triad Moms on Main. She plans to use Triad Moms on Main as a platform to connect more families in the area and share all the wonderful small businesses and amenities the Triad has to offer. In her spare time, Sarah enjoys spending time with her family, hosting playdates, trying new restaurants and traveling.

Amy Loflin is a speaker and co-founder of Echo Joy Collective, a Christian organization for women. “I left a job that I loved to create a platform where women can come together, build meaningful connections, and cultivate a deeper relationship with our Heavenly Father,” said Amy. “My heart breaks for women who are stuck in chains of insecurity, pain, doubt, or comparisons. I believe God desires a beautiful connection with each of us, and longs to lead us into lives of purpose and wholeheartedness.” Amy wrote the book Encounter, the main component of an EJC kit, that guides women in an immersive experience to intimately connect with Jesus. She also leads and speaks regularly at Echo Gatherings, EJC events that offer opportunities for women to gather and grow together. In her spare time, Amy enjoys traveling, attending Burn Boot Camp classes, great food, and spending time with friends and family, especially her husband of 27 years, Chad. They have two amazing sons, Jacob and Ben, who’ve already flown the nest.

CORAL CROOK

Coral Crook is the owner of The Curvy Fox Boutique. Before stepping out on faith and opening The Curvy Fox Boutique, Coral was a stay-at-home mom to three teens, lots of animals, Girl Scout leader and wife for 25 years. Since becoming a business owner, she has learned so much and improved her skills tremendously. She has worked with local organizations to empower her in being a force in social media, marketing and promoting. So often, women are afraid to step out, and up, after being out of the work force for so long, but Coral has proven that hard work and determination pay off. According to those who know her, Coral is an amazing human with the kindest heart. In her spare time, Coral enjoys crafting and spending time with her family.

THE MOVE

BROOKE STULTZ

MOLLY KELLAM

Molly Kellam is a nurse practitioner with Atrium Health Wake Forest Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. She earned her master’s degree from Winston-Salem State University. “I started out at AHWFB Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery as a nurse in 2018,” said Molly. “I continued to work here while obtaining my FNP degree from 2021-2023. I started my FNP career with plastics in August of 2023. I feel very fortunate to have the support of this team as I continue to grow and foster my knowledge as an advanced practitioner. I love taking care of and getting to know our pre- and postoperative patients. I also enjoy the aesthetics part of my job where I can offer a wide range of injectables and laser treatments including Botox, fillers and lasers for hair removal, pigmentation and more. It has been a very fulfilling role for me and one that I am very excited to grow.” In her spare time, Molly loves going to cycle class, reading and traveling with her husband and their sweet pup.

Brooke Stultz, a native of Winston-Salem, NC, joined Forsyth Jail & Prison Ministries in 2016 as the organization’s administrative assistant. She attended Forsyth Technical Community College, where she obtained an associate degree in information technology. Daily, her organizational skills ensure the office runs smoothly and, in January of this year, Brooke was promoted to office manager. She is married to Tyler and they have two children, Rylan and Reece. In her spare time, Brooke enjoys decorating and recreational activities outdoors with family and friends, her dogs and her family’s involvement at REVO Church.

KAITLYN FLESHMAN

Kaitlyn Fleshman is a real estate broker with Smart Move Group at eXp realty. She was recently named agent of the month and “rookie” of the quarter in her first year of real estate. She is active and current with her real estate license. She believes strongly in her support system and would like to thank her mom and dad, family and friends for their constant support and encouragement. In her spare time, Kaitlyn enjoys CrossFit at Washington Park CrossFit, discovering the outdoors, networking with her community and helping others reach their real estate goals!

Hustle & Heart

When All Else Fails, Tell Them a Story

by TARYN JEREZ , OF GOFORITCREATIVE.COM

This column is meant to serve as a resource for readers who seek inspiration and knowledge for building their own small business brands. Through actionable advice, find the encouragement to help you keep living your life with hustle and heart.

Imagine you’re sitting at your desk, staring at that blinking cursor, feeling stuck and unsure of what to say. Maybe you don’t have to imagine because this was literally you an hour ago.

Don’t worry, we’ve all been there; but this month, I’m sharing a little secret! The next time you’re unsure of what to share and worrying your audience might find your content a little stale, storytelling is your best friend!

Since the dawn of time, humans have been drawn to stories! Think about how a good story makes you feel, the way it can transport you to a different time and place or put you in an entirely different frame of mind! Why not tap into that power for your business?

THE BEST STORIES ARE THE ONES YOU KNOW BEST

The idea behind storytelling is to take away some of the stress of finding the perfect words to write. Lead with real stories that feel familiar, are easy to share, are relatable to your specific ideal client and feel natural. Remember that people appreciate authenticity, so don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through.

CUSTOMERS MAKE THE BEST MAIN CHARACTERS

You don’t want your business to be centered around stories only about you – you want to highlight your customers! Use storytelling as a way to put your leads in the mindset of “what if that were me?” Don’t overcomplicate it, just lean into sharing real success stories and transformations. You can tell a story about how a product or service made a difference to a customer, about an inquiry that came in, what they’re struggling with and how you’re working with them to help. Always remember if you’re sharing a specific customer experience where you’re naming them to be sure that nothing you share is confidential.

WHO DOESN’T LOVE A GOOD CONFLICT?

Don’t forget everyone loves a little drama! Brainstorm helpful stories you can share within your content that showcase conflict. You can lean into obstacles you’ve faced, challenges you have

helped customers through, difficult seasons that your business came from or another source of conflict you’ve encountered. Showing up on social media or other content platforms and letting your audience see the imperfect moments, keeps your brand human and relatable. Plus, when you share the lesson learned or the resolution, it brings your audience along for the ride.

KEEP IT ENGAGING AND MEMORABLE

Your audience sees enough sub-par content that they have to scroll past every day. Keep your stories fun and engaging! You don’t have to be flashy about how you share your story, but it’s helpful to try out different videos, hooks, visuals and content types that make your followers want to engage and keep coming back. Embrace trying new things and testing out different stories and storytelling styles until you find what feels natural to you and seems to connect with your audience.

HUSTLE & HEART CHALLENGE

This month, when you start to feel stuck on what to share in your business, just remember, when all else fails, tell them a story! Think about what you’re trying to create engagement and sales around, and brainstorm what stories would be the best to connect with your audience. Record a reel, make a post, share an Instagram story – whatever feels right to share your story!

Carolina Vintiques, a charming fusion of antiques and vintage, offers a delightful shopping experience for lovers of distinctive home décor. Owner Shelle McCollum’s vision brought this unique concept to life, creating a haven for discerning shoppers in Clemmons.

Located in a spacious setting since relocating from Winston-Salem, Carolina Vintiques boasts a curated selection of farmhouse chic and contemporary pieces, alongside vintage treasures.

With a focus on offering a less overwhelming shopping experience, Carolina Vintiques constantly updates its displays, ensuring a fresh and eclectic mix of home décor and antiques.

Beyond retail, Carolina Vintiques offers custom painting services using Fusion mineral paints, making DIY projects a breeze. Shelle and her staff also provide in-person and virtual consulting to help customers achieve their desired aesthetic effortlessly.

Visit Carolina Vintiques at 2550 Lewisville-Clemmons Road, Clemmons, NC, (across the street from Chick-fil-a) Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 6 PM. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram @carolinavintiques for updates and inspiration.

When Life Gives Lemons:

Lessons & Recipes

by SUSAN BOYOUNG BAILEY SCHABACKER

You know the saying, “when life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” But, there’s more to glean from the sourest moments in life than lemonade. From difficult setbacks to failed relationships, don’t stay stuck in the sourness. Get that grater out for zesting, and open your mind and heart to possibilities. Learn to make the best of any and all of life’s challenges. Oh, and keep reading this article!

When life gives us lemons, consider it a blessing in disguise that can lead to a new chapter of fresh opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Shift your perspective, and find a silver lining no matter how difficult or complicated. Persevere and remember Nelson Mandela’s advice that “the greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.”

Metaphorically speaking, lemons can hold valuable life lessons and, similarly, physical lemons can offer numerous health and beauty benefits. Along with immune-boosting properties, real-life lemons can nourish your body and uplift your spirit.

Incorporate lemons into your daily routine for a more positive and energized outlook on life. Citrus contains some of the most refreshing and invigorating fruits around. Their aromatic scent is reminiscent of optimism and can revitalize and restore your senses.

WHY TO LOVE LEMONS…

• Good source of vitamin C essential for a healthy immune system.

• Improve digestion and promote healthy bowel movements.

• Boost energy levels.

• Brighten, exfoliate and detoxify skin and hair.

• Reduce inflammation, swelling and pain. The following are some quick and easy ways to embrace lemons’ bountiful benefits and boost your health and beauty.

CELEBRATE WITH LEMONS DAILY

*Bored with bland water but need to stay hydrated? Squeeze some lemon juice or add a ring or wedge of lemon to iced water. Sip throughout the day to boost your immune system and add a daily dose of vitamin C.

*Stay hydrated with healthy lemon and lemon-inspired teas including lemon peel, lemongrass and lemon balm. Lemon peel steeped in hot water will glean the health benefits of lemon without the acidity and sourness of the lemon juice.

*Lemon juice in cooking and baking adds a refreshing bright flavor and just the right amount of acidity into salads, soups and many other dishes. Finely chop or grate lemon zest, the yellow part of the lemon peel, to add a delightful citrusy flavor to cakes, cookies, salad dressings and marinades.

*Energize, uplift your senses and freshen up your home with the natural scent of lemon. In a diffuser or spray bottle, dilute a few drops of lemon essential oil with distilled water or green tea and spray around your house or work environment. Spray lightly on your face and body as a toner.

*Brighten your skin and reduce acne with a lemon face mask: Mix together one tablespoon lemon juice, one tablespoon honey, one tablespoon plain yogurt, ¼ mashed banana and one tablespoon oatmeal. Add ¾ tablespoon ground coffee for extra exfoliation. Apply a mask to your face, let sit for 10 to 15 minutes, then gently rub into skin to exfoliate and rinse off with warm water.

*Brighten your hair, remove product build-up and bring out natural highlights with a lemon hair rinse: Mix together one cup chamomile tea and one tablespoon lemon juice. After shampooing, pour the lemon rinse over your hair, let sit for a few minutes, then rinse with warm water.

EMBRACE LIFE’S MOST SOUR MOMENTS

Even in the midst of adversity, there is always an opportunity to find something positive. When we face challenges, we can choose to either let them get the best of us or use them as an opportunity to grow and learn. As Helen Keller noted, “Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Not much is achieved without hope, confidence or ambition.”

In our world of constantly being bombarded with notifications, advertisements and negative news, welcome in the spread of positivity and remember that, when life gives us lemons, we have the power to transform our entire life’s experience into what’s special, meaningful and fulfilling.

HISTORY OF A HOMETOWN DOUGHNUT

by KAREN COOPER

Krispy Kreme, the doughnuts we southerners know and love, opened its first store in Paris, France in December of 2023. Even in the land of delightful bakeries and patisseries, there were several people in line on a Tuesday night…the night before the shop’s planned opening, keen to get their hands on the iconic boxes of glazed, fried dough that Americans have been enjoying since the 1930s. When the Paris Krispy Kreme opened its doors at 8:00 am on Wednesday morning, about 400 customers had lined up on the sidewalk outside. The first 10 people in line won a year’s supply of free doughnuts! I wouldn’t be opposed to camping out for that kind of deal.

But, going back to the beginning…

the delicious doughnuts were just starting out when Vernon Rudolph, a businessman from Paducah, Kentucky purchased a secret recipe for yeast-raised doughnuts from a New Orleans French chef, rented a building in what is now historic Old Salem in WinstonSalem and began selling Krispy Kreme doughnuts on July 13, 1937 to local grocery stores. It was only a matter of time before the delicious smell of the baking doughnuts enticed nearby customers to head directly to Rudolph’s store. Picturing a potential business opportunity, Rudolph cut a hole in the wall of his bakery and began to sell the hot doughnuts directly to walk-up customers. It is said that Vernon chose Winston-Salem as the location for his doughnut business because of Camel cigarettes. He figured a town with a company producing a nationally advertised product had to be a good bet!

Thus began Vernon Rudolph’s business venture that would begin as a small doughnut shop and grow beyond his wildest imagination into a corporation which he led until his death in 1973.

Rudolph believed in producing only doughnuts of high quality, and those were the only ones that were ever sold. His belief

(as well as the mouth-watering doughnuts he produced) endeared them to the people of Winston-Salem. What also made an impact on the patrons of Winston Salem (and their taste buds) was marveling at the doughnut production that occurred in the store’s front window and the free samples given away in the evenings.

By the 40s and 50s, there was a small chain of stores, mostly family owned franchises. They all used the Krispy Kreme recipe, and each store made its doughnuts from scratch. Rudolph and Krispy Kreme felt that the doughnuts were always good but not always consistent. For this reason, Krispy Kreme built a mix plant and developed a distribution system that aimed to deliver perfect dry doughnut mix to each Krispy Kreme store. It was during this time that Rudolph and his equipment engineers developed and built Krispy Kreme’s proprietary doughnut making equipment. They continued to focus on improving the processes of the stores and, with hard work and a commitment to quality and consistency, Krispy Kreme established itself as a company that was at the top of its field and beloved by its customers. In June of 1947, the Krispy Kreme Corporation was formed.

Throughout the 60s and 70s, Krispy Kreme saw steady growth throughout the southeast United States and began expanding outside of its traditional roots. The design of the stores became consistent including the trademark green tile roofs and “heritage” road signs. These signature features helped brand the Krispy Kreme chain as stores opened outside of the southeastern region. Vernon Rudolph died in 1973, and growth slowed while the company was reorganized for sale to Beatrice Foods Company in 1976.

In the early 80s, a small group of early franchisees decided to buy Krispy Kreme back from Beatrice Foods. They initiated a renewed focus on the hot doughnut experience and began to expand outside the southeast US. Stores in

New York City and California were opened in the 90s, and national expansion was well underway. Krispy Kreme turned 60 years old in 1997 and was officially recognized as a 20th century American icon which included a donation of company artifacts to the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History.

Krispy Kreme held an initial public offering of common stock in April 2000. It opened the first international store in Canada near Toronto in December 2001. The first stores outside North America opened in Sydney, Australia and in London, England in 2003. Since then, Krispy Kreme has opened more than 700 stores in Asia, Mexico, the Middle East, Puerto Rico and Turkey.

Although its growth extends internationally and you can now find Krispy Kreme doughnuts almost anywhere you go in the south, it still has that warm, homey feeling when you enter a shop and watch the doughnuts being made. It’s still exciting to drive by and see the “Hot Doughnuts Now” sign lit up.

Vernon Rudolph and his Krispy Kreme doughnuts are an excellent example of the entrepreneurial spirit that flourished in North Carolina despite the Great Depression. And, I’m sure he would be wowed and proud of the course things have taken in the past 50 years since he passed the torch.

Mark

Travel Light

Without Excess Emotional Baggage

by SUSAN BOYOUNG BAILEY SCHABACKER

Ever feel like you’re carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders or feel like you’re stuck in the past like the engine of a car that’s seized or stuck in reverse – unable to move forward? If you’ve been struggling with emotional baggage or have regrets, there’s no need to regress or digress. Instead, it’s time to make progress with traveling light through life minus all that emotional baggage.

We all carry emotional baggage from time to time. It’s a normal part of life. But, when that baggage starts to weigh us down, it can be difficult to move forward. We may feel stuck in the past, unable to let go of what’s happened. We may make the same mistakes over and over again. We may also find it hard to connect with others or enjoy our lives.

Negate negativity and gain freedom from mistakes or difficult situations in the past. There’s no need to bring any baggage with you now or into the future. Whether it’s failed relationships, regretful decisions or painful memories, you can lighten your load and walk into the present and future with confidence.

Whether you’re looking for closure, healing or a fresh start, here are some tips to make the most of the present and create a better future.

LETTING GO OF EMOTIONAL BAGGAGE AND REGRETS ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR EMOTIONS

The first step to letting go of anything is to acknowledge all emotions and accept them as a part of life. Recognize the emotions that you feel and accept them as a part of life. It’s okay to feel sad, angry or hurt. It’s also okay to feel regret. The important thing is to allow yourself to feel these emotions without judgment.

IDENTIFY THE SOURCE OF THE PAIN

Once you’ve acknowledged your emotions, it’s time to identify the source of the pain. This could be a specific event, a relationship or a pattern of behavior. Once you know what’s causing the pain, you can start to reframe it with a positive outlook. Change your attitude. This doesn’t mean that you have to forget what happened or pretend that it didn’t hurt. It simply means that you can choose to see the experience in a different light.

“If you don’t like something, change it.

If you can’t change it, change your attitude.”

~ Maya Angelou

TAKE STEPS TO AVOID REPEATING THE SAME MISTAKES

You want to move forward with no regrets. Once you’ve identified the source of your pain, you can focus on healing and take steps to avoid repeating the same mistakes. This could mean learning from your mistakes, changing your behavior or setting new boundaries. Forgive yourself for past mistakes, let go of things you can’t control and focus on the present moment.

“Letting go is the only way to truly move on.”

~ Oprah Winfrey

THE PAST DOES NOT DEFINE YOU

The past does not limit you or define your worth. One of the biggest challenges of letting go of emotional baggage is learning to let go of the past. It’s easy to get caught up in past mistakes and regrets. But, always remember the past does not define us. We are not our mistakes. We are not our regrets. We create the future we want with our future choices and actions.

ASK AND YOU SHALL RECEIVE

If you’re struggling to let go of emotional baggage on your own, don’t be afraid to reach out for help. There are many resources available to help you cope with emotional pain, including therapy, support groups and self-help books. Be patient with the process of receiving support. The right support team and resources can help you overcome obstacles and plan a brighter future of traveling light.

Letting go of emotional baggage and regret is not easy. But, it is possible. With some effort, you can learn to let go of the past and move on with your life.

“The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be.”

~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

Discovering:Elegance

Junior League of Winston-Salem’s Tour of Fine Spaces

Step into a world where design meets brilliance, where innovation intertwines with craftsmanship and where each space tells a story of creativity and elegance. The Junior League of Winston-Salem proudly presents its 18th Annual Tour of Fine Spaces, an extraordinary event set to take place on April 20, 2024 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Prepare to be immersed in a tapestry of unique designs, skilled craftsmanship and innovative home ideas, all in support of crucial literacy and health programs for women and families in Forsyth County.

This year’s tour promises an unforgettable experience, showcasing a selection of homes that have undergone remarkable transformations. Among the featured companies, ICON Custom Builders showcases a multi-phase remodel of a breathtaking Buena Vista residence. From refined main level spaces to whimsical second-floor havens, this home exemplifies sophistication and charm at every turn.

Another noteworthy partnership on this year’s tour is a beautiful, whole house renovation between QFC and Amanda Hiatt Interiors, where quality meets creativity to produce remarkable results. Their seamless collaboration results in a home that not only meets but exceeds expectations, showcasing the perfect blend of form and function in spaces that inspire and delight.

Beyond the enchanting interiors and outdoor spaces, each ticket to the Tour of Fine Spaces extends support to the Junior League’s

longstanding commitment to empowering women and families in the community. Through initiatives like Strong Women, Strong Families health fairs and BookWORM projects, the JLWS brings vital resources and opportunities to those in need. The Tour of Fine Spaces serves as a crucial financial pillar for these programs, enabling the Junior League to broaden its impact and continue fostering women’s leadership through education and training opportunities.

Adding to the excitement of this year’s tour is the introduction of a silent auction at each location. As you explore the stunning homes on display, don’t miss the opportunity to participate in the silent auction, offering unique treasures while furthering the cause. Additionally, indulge in fantastic light bites from local caterers, bakeries and restaurants while on the tour.

The Junior League’s Tour of Fine Spaces represents more than just a showcase of architectural wonders; it exemplifies the strength of collaboration, creativity and community spirit. So, mark your calendars and join us in celebrating the beauty of transformation, one exquisite space at a time.

To purchase tickets, follow the QR Code: To learn more about the Junior League of Winston-Salem and their initiatives, visit JLWS.org.

European Travel

ON A TIGHT BUDGET

by AMY HILL

Enjoying international travel without breaking the bank is possible with a bit of research and a few minor sacrifices here and there. If you’re like most Americans, luxury travel is a bit out of reach, while cheap hostel stays are no longer appealing outside of your early 20s. Below are some helpful tips when looking to plan a budget-friendly vacation overseas.

AVOID THE HIGH SEASON

It’s no secret that airline and accommodation prices in Europe skyrocket in the warmer months compared to months with less favorable weather such as November or January. Additionally, steer clear of booking your trip for December in countries such as Germany, Switzerland, Austria and the Czech Republic, which draw in hoards of Christmas market crowds after Thanksgiving. In general, the drearier the weather, the more affordable the travel. However, be sure to keep tabs on major winter events such as Fashion Week in Milan or Paris, or the iconic Venice Carnival celebration, in order to avoid an influx of crowds and to prevent yourself from overpaying for your stay.

CHOOSE COUNTRIES WISELY

A week in Athens, Greece will cost a fraction of a week spent in Zurich, Switzerland. If you’re itching for a European adventure and don’t have your heart set on any particular country, skip Scandinavia, Switzerland and the Netherlands, and head south to Spain, Italy or Greece instead. Prague and Budapest are also excellent destinations for younger travelers looking for affordable cities with great architecture and nightlife. Additionally, Berlin is relatively affordable and packed with great history, while popular cities such as London, Paris and Amsterdam will stretch your wallet. If you insist on visiting a pricier country, keep costs down by electing a shorter stay. Slash costs even further by booking rooms or rentals a little further away from the heart of the action and using public transportation to get to the city center in these locations.

BOOK DIRECT AND BOOK EARLY

Although some trips are more spontaneous, whenever possible, book airline, ferry and train tickets months in advance to get the best price. Last minute tickets are typically more expensive and leave travelers with fewer seat reservation options and schedule flexibility. While train travel around Europe allows tourists to skip pesky airport security and enjoy stunning scenery, using budget airlines between cities in Europe is sometimes more cost effective. If price is your priority, compare the cost of taking a train and flying between countries to get the best deal.

Using search engines can be the most convenient way to shop for hotel rooms, but be sure to visit the direct website of the hotel in question before locking in your rate through Expedia. Many times, official hotel websites offer special discounts or offer codes for direct bookers, making rates surprisingly lower than those displayed through search engines. Direct bookers can also benefit from perks such as complimentary breakfast, upgrades when available or even something as simple as a free bottle of wine waiting for you in the room.

SKIP THE SOUVENIRS

Let’s just face it – snow globes and refrigerator magnets are overrated. Take photos of your trip as memorabilia rather than spending hard-earned cash on unnecessary items that will collect dust on a shelf. To keep the shopping bug at bay, opt to pack carry-on only in order to restrict yourself from having enough room in your suitcase to bring home newly purchased goods. In fact, packing light also gets you off the hook with nosey friends and family members who may question you about not showering them with gifts from your travels.

VINTAGE TO VOGUE CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE

Shopping days just got a little sweeter with a stop at Vintage to Vogue Boutique in Greensboro. Selling vintage-inspired clothing, accessories and shoes, Vintage to Vogue also offers store browsers craft beer, wine and mimosas at their shop’s bar. Owned by FIT graduate Jennifer Graf, Vintage to Vogue has taken fashion lovers by storm since 2016. Both men and women passing through will find vintage, new and lightly used designer-brand items on the racks and shelves, while also relaxing in the shop’s lounge or courtyard with a glass of wine.

Have gently used designer items looking for a new home? Vintage to Vogue is in search of fashionable, clean clothing items, handbags, jewelry, shoes, sunglasses and accessories in great condition. Vintage items in excellent condition from the 1990s and earlier are also eligible for consignment. Taking the consignment route not only rehomes once-loved goods, but also reduces waste and helps support local businesses. Prior to submission, ensure that items are odor-free and steamed or de-wrinkled. To inquire about consignment opportunities, contact vintagetovogueboutique@gmail.com or reach out to the staff on Facebook or Instagram at @vintagetovogueboutique.

Read more about Jennifer and the boutique online at vintagetovogue. net, and stop by to browse the racks in person at 530 S. Elm Street, Greensboro, NC 27406. Monday through Wednesday, Vintage to Vogue is open by appointment only. See regular store hours below.

Thursday: 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., Friday: 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Saturday: 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Sunday: 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

VintageVintageVentures

THE BARN ON COUNTRY CLUB

Need to adorn your brand new home with furnishings and decor for the whole family without breaking the bank? Why not snag repurposed fixtures that look as good as new?

Open since 2016, The Barn on Country Club is closely tended to by Owner Renee Floyd, who works at The Barn daily to ensure operations run smoothly. Renee and her small team move inventory in and out of The Barn, refurbish and paint incoming products, and deliver those products to customers around the clock. In fact, Renee is so passionate about her customers’ experiences that she personally purchases each item sold in-store.

The Barn on Country Club is the ideal spot for couples looking to balance the feminine and masculine energy in their home by turning used, functional items into brand new decor. Creative shoppers can turn many rustic farm items into country chic accent pieces or light fixtures. While browsing the massive floor space of The Barn on Country Club, customers looking to spruce up their man cave will be thrilled by The Barn’s attic, stocked with masculine memorabilia and decor. The Barn carries an excellent selection of beer tap handles, neon lights and authentic signs to gift to the men in your life.

Customers who love the look of antique and refurbished furniture but aren’t so thrilled with the idea of adding secondhand pieces to their new home, can have the best of both worlds at The Barn on Country Club. Shop team member and woodworking wizard Mark Nyswonger is notorious for creating customized pieces and is especially talented in building dining tables tailored to the needs and wants of those craving a custom feel.

A series uncovering vintage gems in and around Forsyth County

by AMY HILL

Love antiques, but aren’t exactly sure how to use them in your home? In the small chance that she hasn’t already offered to show you around the shop, ask Renee for information on pieces throughout the floor or ask for her advice on how to make them stand out. While the shop receives new inventory daily from auctions, estate sales and downsizing customers looking to sell their items, nothing enters the doors of The Barn that Renee hasn’t closely inspected and priced herself.

Start shopping today at 4886 Country Club Road, Winston-Salem, NC 27104. To stay updated on the latest news from Renee and her team, follow @thebarnoncc on Instagram and check out the team’s Facebook page. For store hours and contact information, visit thebarnoncountryclub.com.

If you’re a tried-and-true fan of the Kentucky Derby, a budding race enthusiast or looking to welcome spring in southern style while giving back to the best cause ever, there’s a meaningful experience for you right here in Winston-Salem.

Sponsored by the Trellis Supportive Care Leadership Council, the Kentucky Derby Party fundraiser is a blend of fun and fellowship with 100% of the evening’s proceeds supporting Hospice patients in need.

KENTUCKY DERBY PARTY

A Good Time for an Even Better Cause

by MARTIE EMORY

This year’s festive event will be held on Saturday, May 4th at The Atrium at Wake Forest Biotech Place. The event will celebrate the 12th anniversary of the Derby Party and 12 years of the Leadership Council’s amazing support. This group of young professionals has helped support the Hospice mission with their dedication to philanthropy and to the community.

Consider this your perfect opportunity to support the wonderful work of Trellis Supportive Care and show off your personal Derby style with a favorite hat or fashionable bow tie – the brighter the better! Let your true southern side shine through!

Yes, there will be a live stream of the Kentucky Derby race, live music, Derby-themed heavy hors d’oeuvres, beer, wine and no shortage of signature mint juleps. You’ll also get caught up in the excitement of the

traditional silent auction with exceptional donated items from individuals, businesses and other local organizations.

VIP Admission is $150 – from 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. and includes early access of 30 minutes to the party (including food and bars), an exclusive raffle, experience vouchers and a commemorative Kentucky Derby Julep Cup. The $75 regular admission hours are from 4:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Trellis Supportive Care is North Carolina’s original nonprofit Hospice and palliative care provider and has been serving the North Carolina Piedmont area with kind and compassionate care for more than 40 years. Their efforts support patients and family members with comfort, dignity and peace of mind when it matters most. Besides vital medical needs, this care also enhances the emotional and spiritual wellbeing of all involved. In addition to in-home care, Trellis also provides services to nursing home residents, assisted living communities, group and rest homes, and at the Kate B. Reynolds Hospice Home. Counseling and bereavement services are also freely available to anyone in our community coping with a loss.

“I have seen the impact that Trellis has in the community first-hand, through numerous members of my family with end-of-life care, as well as many other services and therapies. Being able to support and raise money to continue to improve the lives of countless families and individuals has always been important to me. The Derby is always a fun event to celebrate and a great way to ensure that others can continue to have the same experience my family has had.”

~ Richard Stockton, Leadership Council Member

“For more than four decades, Trellis has been a stalwart provider of high-quality Hospice and palliative care, offering support to our community members in their most vulnerable moments – while never imposing financial burden. As a member of the Leadership Council, I am proud to be a part of this group that orchestrates this event, a platform dedicated to raising both funds and awareness for the remarkable contributions Trellis provides to our community.”

~ Michael Swinson, Leadership Council Member

Trellis Supportive Care serves 13 counties from four offices located in Winston-Salem, Mocksville, Walnut Cove and Salisbury. Please contact the office nearest you to learn more about programs, services or volunteering.

For your tickets to this incredibly special event on May 4th or for more information, call 336.331.1323 or visit TrellisDerbyParty.org where you can also learn more about the Hospice mission.

Alzheimer’s:

My Grandmother’s Insightful Journey

by HALLEIGH MILLESON

In 2018, my beautiful grandmother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease at 85 years old. Being 18 years old at the time, I had heard of Alzheimer’s, but I was unfamiliar with what this disease truly looked like. It was difficult watching my grandmother quickly lose her memory and ability to have normal conversations. Along with losing her memory, my grandmother experienced a lot of confusion about the day and constant fatigue. Being able to go visit my grandmother in the memory care unit allowed me to understand more about this disease and how difficult the journey of this disease is. My grandmother, who I once had been so close to, was now so far away. However, by spending time with my grandmother, I was able to gain new insights to carry with me in my life.

• A HUG IS POWERFUL: Since my grandmother did not talk much or was sleepy when I visited her, I hugged her. To her, a hug was almost more meaningful than words. As I hugged her, she often put her hand on top of my hand or started to smile. One time she even told me “That hug feels nice.” Being able to give my grandmother hugs reminded me that, even when we don’t have the words to speak, simply hugging someone can speak volumes. To my grandmother, a hug meant love and comfort. A hug is what made her feel at home. From now on, I will give hugs and never forget how meaningful a simple hug can be to someone.

• A REMINDER TO ENJOY EVERY DAY: Watching my grandmother lose the memories of her life made me reevaluate my perspective on my life. I started to evaluate my life and be thankful for every moment of every day. Yes, we all have good and bad days, but even on the bad days, I will find something for which to be grateful. Suddenly, I had the desire to smile more during the day, take more dance breaks and spend more time with my family. I want to soak in all of the beautiful and difficult moments of my life because, through every season, I grow and appreciate the gift of life even more. It was hard for my grandmother to enjoy every day once this disease took over her mind, and I realized how precious every day of life is.

• A NEWFOUND APPRECIATION FOR MEMORIES: Before my grandmother’s Alzheimer’s journey, I had never really thought about memories. Of course, I had thought about good memories in my life, but I realized that I did not appreciate the gift of memories. Now, I am thankful for good memories because, even when experiences pass, memories still live on in our minds. Sadly, with Alzheimer’s, memories fade and disappear. I often talked to my grandmother and reminded her of the wonderful memories that I had of her. I reminded her how delicious her homemade pancakes were, how much fun we had playing “grocery store” together and how much we enjoyed shopping at the mall. Sitting next to her, I was incredibly grateful that I had positive memories to refer back to when talking to her. Even if she did not remember them, she was reminded of happy, special times. I have learned that, especially on difficult days, thinking about good, happy memories can be therapeutic.

I wanted to write this article because I felt that, even during a difficult, messy journey, I was able to focus on important, beautiful new insights in my life. If you know someone who is walking through Alzheimer’s, my desire is that you will find hope and comfort in this article.

CoolVu offers a transformative range of products designed to enhance privacy, reduce UV exposure, and create safer, more comfortable environments for homes and businesses. From window tinting to privacy frosted film, architectural surface finishes, and security glass solutions, CoolVu is your go-to source for elevating your most cherished spaces. The franchise, founded by Chu Wong and Billy Phillips in 2022, covers areas from Winston-Salem, Mooresville, NC, to Lancaster, SC, extending an invitation to residents to experience the rave-worthy solutions.

CoolVu is the franchise offshoot of Window Film Depot, a key player in the window film and graphics industry for nearly three decades. The Company’s efficiency and lean operations are very impressive. It ensures swift inventory delivery within 24-48 hours to allow installation shortly after customer approves the job. With products made in the USA under a stringent quality control process, it allows CoolVu to offer a lifetime warranty to residential customers and a 15-year warranty to commercial clients on most CoolVu branded products.

Elevating Spaces with Innovative Solutions

by MARTIE EMORY

“Our products address real-life, everyday problems,” says Chu. CoolVu’s offerings encompass architectural film, window tinting, printed graphics, murals, and custom wallpaper solutions, providing stylish options to renovate surfaces while controlling heat, UV rays, and ensuring privacy and security. Window film tinting stands out as an energy-efficient, low-maintenance alternative to traditional coverings, reducing sun glare by up to 90% and enhancing natural light.

Safety and security film, available in various thicknesses, is a practical retrofit solution for existing window and door glass. Acting as a “clear shield” barrier, this film deters intruders and protects against the elements. CoolVu emphasizes ease and efficiency in project completion, offering free consultations, samples, measurements, quotes, and installation guidance for both residential and commercial clients.

CoolVu proudly serves as an authorized reseller of DefenseLite® and BulletShield™ security products from its sister company, Impact Security. DefenseLite Pro, a retrofit polycarbonate or security glass system, prevents forced entry at commercial buildings, and BulletShield offers ballistic resistance and protection against forced entry, all at a fraction of the cost of traditional bulletresistant glass systems.

As a veteran-owned and independently operated business, CoolVu is committed to excellence. Located at 8322 Pineville Matthews Road, Suite 602 #1073, you can contact them at 833.426.6588, Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Explore their glass and surface solutions at CoolVu.com to discover how they can seamlessly integrate into the fabric of your home or business, offering a clearer view of what truly matters. To set up a free consultation meeting, please call 336-749-1947.

On March 6th, more than 300 professional women came together for the REACH Women’s Network annual conference. An acronym for Recognize, Encourage, Advance, Connect Her, REACH is a nonprofit with the mission of closing the gender gap by raising the collective voice and influence of women in the workplace.

As REACH marks its fifth year of existence, thousands of women are benefiting from not only the annual conference but its year-round programming, as well. REACH’s 170 members represent a diverse range of ages, ethnicities and professions. Events throughout the year focus on topics as diverse as salary negotiation, the importance of mentorship, life/work integration, self-care and the many faces of leadership.

Just as important are the feelings of connection and empowerment that palpably fill the room at any REACH event. “Nourishing” is how Angela Blue, one of REACH’s youngest members, described it. “To see an organization advocating for the equitable advances of Forsyth County women was not just refreshing but also absolutely needed,” she said. “The opportunity to be part of this effort has been an amazing experience.”

That’s just what the founders of REACH love to hear. “Numerous studies show us that networking plays a critical role in achieving every career milestone, and it drives operational and revenue benefits for organizations, but women need more networking support,” said Iris Cole, a co-founder and co-president of REACH.

For REACH member Leah Wyrick, that support has been life changing. When she attended the 2023 conference, she recalls, she was feeling discouraged after resigning from a corporate job that was not the right fit. “Thanks to the amazing women that spoke to me and with me, after just two hours, it was like the light turned back on, and I had a plan for my next move,” she said. Wyrick was inspired to refocus her energy bringing to market a recovery bra she had developed for women who have had any kind of breast surgery. The product, inspired by Leah’s mother’s experience with breast cancer, launches in May.

The seeds of REACH were sown in 2017, “when a diverse group of 14 women, mostly strangers, came together with a shared goal to promote equity and provide connectivity for women in the workplace,” said Julia Clinard Townsend, co-founder and

co-president. “Today, thousands of working women engage with REACH initiatives and programs. The sum of this work has a powerful ripple effect because, when women thrive, communities thrive.”

REACH PROGRAMS INCLUDE:

• The fall 2023 launch of its first Leadership and Mentoring program, which links Salem College students with mentors from among REACH’s membership. Dr. Summer McGee, president of Salem Academy and College, said: “We are proud Alliance Members with REACH because of the amazing opportunities it offers women for leadership development, mentorship and networking. REACH mentors have volunteered many hours with our students to share leadership lessons.”

• Pink Couch panel discussions, held three to four times a year. In addition to programs open to all REACH members, special editions of the Pink Couch series have been held for female leaders at local sponsor companies.

“The Intersection of Physical, Mental and Financial Wellbeing for Women” was a collaborative program for employees of Allegacy Federal Credit Union and Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist. “Navigating the Grays of Negotiation” was the subject of a program hosted by Reynolds American for employees in the company.

“The panel discussion, which featured experienced women leaders from the local community, focused on dispelling misperceptions about negotiating and the power of advocating for yourself,” said Shay Mustafa, a member of the REACH board of advisors and senior vice president, business communications & sustainability for Reynolds American, Inc. “Negotiating effectively in the workplace empowers women to advocate for their work, break down gender bias and create a more inclusive working environment. It is a crucial step towards achieving gender equity.”

• Diversity, equity and inclusion training. REACH has offered DEI workshops for the entrepreneurial community through its partnerships with the Center for Creative Economy and Winston Starts.

• The design and execution of the Community Survey of Women in the Workplace which surveyed 700 professional women. The study found that a supportive workplace culture was as important as a competitive salary in influencing whether a respondent chooses to remain or leave her current job. An executive summary was distributed at the conference and will be available on the REACH website at reachwomensnetwork.org.

Interested in joining? REACH will hold several virtual information sessions for prospective new members in April. More information is available on the website.

FORSYTH COUNTY

Landmarks Tour

by KAREN COOPER

Landmarks give us a true sense of place. Monuments and historic locations help connect us to a destination and bring us an understanding of its past as well as its present. These special locations are part of the fabric of Forsyth County and learning more about them allows us to better appreciate and love where we live.

OLD SALEM MUSEUMS AND GARDENS

Before it was Old Salem, it was simply Salem, a settlement conceived for a desire for religious freedom and carved out of the North Carolina wilderness by the Moravian community in 1766. Today’s Old Salem has been carefully preserved as the city grew up around it. A visit to Old Salem offers a look at authentic early-American life through storytelling, original buildings, hands-on activities, music and events. Visit the town along with its award-winning heirloom gardens, and gain historical understanding about those who lived and worked there in the earliest days of this charming community. While you’re there, stop in at Winkler Bakery, the oldest continuously operating bakery in the US.

OLD SALEM HERITAGE BRIDGE

This modern covered pedestrian bridge was built in 1998 for nearly $2 million, and it is named for the road that it covers, Old Salem Road. It is located at the site of North Carolina’s first Moravian community and is next to the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts. The structure spans approximately 120 feet over Old Salem Bypass with 17-foot vertical clearance over the roadway and a 12-foot walkway.”

WAIT CHAPEL

Wait Chapel is the largest non-athletic indoor setting on the Reynolda Campus with a seating capacity of 2,250. The Chapel space is home to The Williams Organ, a four-manual Möller instrument with a Schantz console

controlling more than 4,600 pipes. The building also holds the Harris Carillon, a classically controlled grand carillon of 48 cast bronze bells weighing 12 tons. Wait Chapel has been the venue for the Winston-Salem Symphony Orchestra’s production of Handel’s Messiah for the past two years.

WORLD’S LARGEST CHEST OF DRAWERS

Whimsical 32-foot Victorian dresser-shaped building in “the furniture capital of the world.” Located in High Point.

HISTORIC BETHABARA PARK

Historic Bethabara Park features a unique, restored 1788 church, archaeological ruins, exhibits and tours with costumed guides, a reconstructed colonial village and community and medicinal garden, and a French and Indian war fort. Greenways and paths traverse the 183-acre preserve and wetlands. Grounds, gardens and trails are open from sunrise to sunset year-round.

R.J. REYNOLDS AUDITORIUM

Completed in 1923-1924, R.J. Reynolds High School and Auditorium are among the most significant high school complexes and cultural facilities built in North Carolina during the first half of the 20th century. R. J. Reynolds Memorial Auditorium is a 1,900-seat theater with a mezzanine and balcony. The performance area has a 39-foot forestage arch and is about 66 feet wide and 35 feet deep, not including the five-foot curved apron. The beauty of this space and the historical feel of the place has to be experienced to be appreciated.

WINSTON-SALEM TOBACCO HISTORIC DISTRICT

The Winston-Salem Tobacco Historic District consists of the largest industrial section in downtown Winston-Salem. The district encompasses approximately 31 acres and comprises nine full blocks and one partial block. The buildings date from about 1890

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to 1959 and include buildings relating to the tobacco industry, specifically R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company. Also in the district, are a once-thriving African American wholesale commercial business district that once catered to the R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company workers.

SHELL SERVICE STATION

The Shell Service Station in Winston-Salem is a former filling station constructed in 1930 following a decision in the 1920s by the new local Shell distributor, Quality Oil Company, to bring brand awareness to the market by building a series of shell-shaped service stations. The building is an example of representational or novelty architecture and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places on May 13, 1976. It is located at the corner of Sprague and Peachtree Streets. Although there were at least eight stations like it built in the Winston Salem area, the station at Sprague and Peachtree is the only one remaining.

GRAYLYN

Graylyn was once the country estate of Bowman and Nathalie Gray, who built the Norman Revival-style Manor House in the late 1920s. Today, Graylyn endures as one of the country’s most captivating and historic hotels, doubling as a sophisticated and exclusive executive conference center with 85 guest rooms and distinctive event space. Associated with the house are several contributing outbuildings including a garage-guest house and farm complex. Today, Graylyn estate is a member of Historic Hotels of America.

REYNOLDA HISTORIC DISTRICT

Reynolda Historic District is a 178-acre national historic district located on Reynolda Road. Reynolda’s historic estate comprises Reynolda House Museum of American Art, Reynolda Gardens and Reynolda Village Shops and Restaurants. Reynolda Historic

District is located near the campus of Wake Forest University. Visitors may park at any of the attractions listed and explore the grounds using walking paths.

TANGLEWOOD PARK

Tanglewood has something for just about everyone. Playgrounds, dog park, horseback riding, pedal boats on the lake, tennis, BMX and mountain bike trails, 26 spectacular gardens, access to the Yadkin River and the Manor House Bed and Breakfast. Tanglewood is rich in history, beauty and southern charm. The property now known as Tanglewood Park was part of land claimed by Sir Walter Raleigh for Queen Elizabeth on March 25, 1584. It has a vivid history which includes the land being acquired in 1921 by William Neal Reynolds (brother of tobacco entrepreneur R.J. Reynolds). Mr. Will, as he was called, had a love of horses and raced thoroughbreds which led to the establishment of Tanglewood Farm. Today, trail rides, hayrides and carriage rides are available by reservation. Mrs. Reynolds was an avid gardener and, with the help of other talented gardeners, is responsible for the beautiful gardens on display at Tanglewood today.

Cabbage

From slaws to fermented fixes like sauerkraut and kimchi, here’s to the cabbage craze! This special member of the cruciferous family has been on an uptrend, gaining popularity for its numerous health benefits and versatility in the kitchen. Discover the many health benefits of cabbage, and try these healthy and delicious DIY recipes that will make you want to join the cabbage craze.

Packed with nutrients, cabbage is a great source of vitamins C, K and B6 as well as folate, manganese and fiber. These nutrients are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system, promoting bone

craze

by SUSAN BOYOUNG BAILEY SCHABACKER

health and aiding in digestion. Cabbage is also low in calories and high in water content, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy weight and stay hydrated.

But, the benefits of cabbage don’t just stop at its nutritional value. Cabbage is also incredibly diverse and versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, making it a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike. From salads and stir-fries to soups and stews, there are countless ways to incorporate cabbage into your meals from mild to super spicy.

Delicious and Nutritious Cabbage-Crazed Recipes

CABBAGE TOMATO LENTIL SOUP

Ingredients

1 head green cabbage, chopped or diced

Pre-rinsed dried lentils (or pre-cooked)

½ to 1 can stewed tomatoes or 2 tomatoes, diced

1 bell pepper, diced

3 to 4 sweet peppers, diced

2 to 3 jalapeños or habaneros (depending on preferred spiciness)

1 onion or leek, chopped

2 to 3 cloves garlic, minced

2 to 3 sprigs fresh oregano or 1 teaspoon dried oregano, chopped

3 to 4 sprigs fresh thyme or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, chopped

1 bay leaf

4 cups vegetable, chicken, beef or bone broth

½ cup water (or tea of choice for added antioxidant-rich health benefits)

2 to 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce or balsamic vinegar

Salt and pepper (to taste)

Paprika or cayenne pepper; chili and/or cumin (optional)

Sour cream/guacamole (optional)

Shredded or grated cheese (cheddar, Monterey or pepper jack) (optional)

Green onions/scallions or cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Add broth and water/tea to a pot and bring to a boil. If dried, pre-rinse lentils, boil until softened, then reduce heat and simmer.

2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat, then sauté the cabbage, peppers, onion/leek, garlic, oregano, thyme and bay leaf together. Cook until vegetables are softened, about 3 to 5 minutes. Drizzle in Worcestershire or balsamic vinegar.

3. Add sauteed mix of veggies and herbs, gradually reduce heat and simmer.

4. Additional spice suggestions – paprika or cayenne pepper for lovers of the spicy, chili, and/or cumin powders (optional). Add salt/pepper to taste.

5. Serve hot with options of a dollop of sour cream/guacamole, shredded or grated cheese and chopped green onions/scallions.

CABBAGE AND CRISP APPLE SALAD Ingredients

1 head of cabbages, green or red, shredded or diced

2 carrots, shredded or matchstick

1-2 apples (any kind), diced

½ cup chopped red onion

½ cup chopped celery

½ cup nuts or seeds of choice (walnuts, pecans, cashews, sunflower seeds)

¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (curly or Italian flat leaf)

¼ cup olive or other plant-based oil

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon garlic powder and lemon pepper (optional)

1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)

Honey or a few drops of stevia (to taste)

Salt and pepper (to taste)

Fresh juice of half a lemon, or a few wedges of lemon to freshen before serving (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, apples, red onion, celery, nuts/seeds and parsley.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, lemon pepper, caraway seeds, salt/ pepper and honey/stevia (optional).

3. Pour dressing over the salad; toss to coat.

4. Serve immediately or chill for later. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice to maintain freshness.

So, why not join the cabbage craze and reap the health benefits while enjoying delicious meals? Say goodbye to boring, bland vegetables, and say hello to the versatile and nutritious cabbage.

CELEBRATIONS

Armored Self Defense

Armored Self Defense is celebrating our first anniversary at our new location: 690 Jonestown Road in Winston-Salem! Founded in 2015 with over 30 years of expertise, we are excited to empower and build confidence by offering high-quality training through Warrior Krav Maga and Fitness Kickboxing programs for youth and adults.

LOCAL EVENTS

NOW THRU APR 12

FREE PERSONAL TAX RETURN PREPARATION

Trained and certified AARP Tax Aide volunteers will assist in preparing and e-filing your 2023 Federal and State personal income tax returns. Everyone is welcome regardless of age or income. Clients do not need to be a member of AARP. Available at the following locations: Reynolda Branch Library: 2839 Fairlawn Drive, Winston-Salem (Monday & Tuesday); Central Branch Library: 600 W. 5th. St.,Winston-Salem (Wednesday & Thursday); Clemmons Branch Library: 6365 James St, Clemmons (Friday); Beginning March 13th: Southside Branch Library: 3185 Buchanan St., Winston-Salem (Wednesday & Thursday). To get started, visit wstaxaide.com or call 336.777.6189 to schedule an appointment.

APR 2

GOALGETTERS CONNECT

690 Jonestown Road, Unit 200 in W-S

APR 3

5:30-7PM

Join Goalgetters for a fun evening of networking and learning about SEO Strategies for Success, Maximizing Your Online Impact. Goalgetters is an entrepreneur club for women in the Greater W-S area.

ᏓᏗᏬᏂᏏ (WE WILL SPEAK) a/perture cinema

APR 3-5

APR 6

7PM

The Cherokee language is deeply tied to Cherokee identity; yet generations of assimilation efforts by the U.S. government and anti-Indigenous stigmas have forced the Tri-Council of Cherokee tribes to declare a State of Emergency for the language in 2019. This featurelength documentary was shot on-location in Oklahoma and North Carolina throughout 2019-2022; through intimate interviews, vérité footage of community gatherings and extensive archival materials, the film explores the nuanced ways the Cherokee language is vital to maintaining a unique cultural identity and relationship with the world.

SHEROES IN ACTION: EMPOWERED MINDSET, RESILIENT FORCE

Benton Convention Center

Sheroes In Action is committed to empowering women in law enforcement and first response by fostering a resilient and growth-oriented mindset, equipping them with tools and support to thrive in personally and professionally. This groundbreaking event promises to be an incredible opportunity for empowerment, education and excellence through knowledge sharing and professional development. Visit sheroesinaction.com for more information.

SPRING AT BETHABARA: CREATE, CULTIVATE, CELEBRATE

Historic Bethabara Park

11AM-4PM

Celebrate spring and the opening of the Park’s 2024 season by creating sun prints and sun catchers; playing Colonial games; hand plowing a row in the garden; planting seeds and taking them home to grow; making a spring sachet; petting a sheep or two; exploring a wooded trail; participating in a scavenger hunt; interacting with a number of 18th-century craftsmen; and enjoying Moravian music in the 1788 Gemeinhaus. Admission is free!

APR 13

SHREDDING EVENT SPONSORED BY BERMUDA RUN GARDEN CLUB

120 Kinderton Boulevard in Bermuda Run

APR 13

9AM-12PM

$5 per brown grocery bag or equivalent size box. Cash only. Rain or shine. Proceeds go to various Davie County community organizations supported by the Garden Club. Contact Marie at 336.650.5518 with questions.

GIRL SCOUT DAY: PATCH PARTY

Körner’s Folly

10AM-2PM

Join us for a day of exploration of history, art and theater at Körner’s Folly Historic House Museum! This event is open to all Girl Scouts, Troop Leaders and their parent chaperones of the Peaks to Piedmont Council. Scouts will tour the 22-room house with a special scavenger hunt, complete hands-on activities and play historic yard games to earn the Körner’s Folly Patch. Sign up with your troop or individually! Admission is $6 and includes the Körner’s Folly Patch.

APR 13

AFRICAN MUSIC OPEN HOUSE

Lam Museum of Anthropology

Join us as we celebrate the diversity of African music and culture through live music, dance, crafts and activities for all ages. Visitors will also be able to explore exhibits about African music, status and power in Africa, and the art of the Ivory Coast. Admission is free.

APR 13

APR 18

SHERYL BAILEY

Piedmont Jazz Alliance

Experience the vibe! Tickets and information available at piedmontjazzalliance.com.

OPERATION NORTH STATE – TOP SHELF FISHIN’ FESTIVAL

APR 19

APR 19-21

APR 20

APR 20

APR 20

APR 27

TRIPLE CROWN CASINO NIGHT BENEFITING PRETTY IN PINK FOUNDATION

Legacy Stables & Events

6:15AM-5:30PM

Pinnacle Access Area, 1580 River Highway (Highway 150) in Mooresville (Rain or shine). Food, beverages, prizes! A great day of fellowship. All festivals are free to wounded warriors/DVets and approved caregivers. You can show your support by registering to serve as a host boater; food, beverages, prizes and/or financial contributions are also needed. Email mailbox@operationnorthstate.com for more information or call 336.406.3459.

1-4PM 5:30-11PM

Enjoy cocktails, appetizers, a silent and live auction with incredible items, dinner and, of course, your favorite casino games! Plus, win amazing prizes! Tickets can be purchased at onecau.se/tccn24. Pretty In Pink Foundation’s mission is to provide uninsured and under-insured breast cancer patients in North Carolina with financial assistance for quality, life-saving medical treatment.

NC CYCLING FESTIVAL

Historic Downtown Mocksville

A weekend of all things cycling – the first annual NC Cycling Festival is a weekend long celebration of bicycles and cyclists. But, it also has lots to offer the non-cyclist as well! Live music on Friday night and all afternoon and evening on Saturday, beer and wine available to purchase in the social area, a vendor fair with artisans and exhibitors, a vintage bike show, food trucks, shopping, kid’s activities, something for everyone! Don’t miss this festival that will put Mocksville on the map as a hub for cycling!

GOAT YOGA

The Farm at Henley Hill, 6890 Henley Hill Drive in Pfafftown

9-10AM

What is goat yoga? Well, you will get an amazing hour of yoga led by our certified instructor, Fontaine Gervasi, while the goats enjoy grazing and hanging out with you. Yoga is for all levels and most ages. The goats are very gentle and completely adorable. All you need to bring is a water bottle, a yoga mat or towel and an open mind.

SPRING VINTAGE MARKET

Körner’s Folly

Featuring the best of local, handmade and vintage items for sale from 35+ vendors, this outdoor market will feature something for everyone. On the lush grounds of Historic Körner’s Folly, shoppers can meet and chat with the artisans and craftspeople who create one-of-a-kind treasures, while supporting the local businesses that make our community great. Market is free and open to the public. Pair your shopping experience with a tour of Historic Körner’s Folly – tickets available for purchase online or on-site inside Aunt Dealy’s House. 9AM-2PM

PIEDMONT EARTH DAY FAIR 2024

Winston-Salem Fairgrounds

Piedmont Earth Day Fair is the largest Earth Day event in the state, drawing crowds of more than 8,000 people! This event is free to the public and held yearly at the Winston-Salem Fairgrounds. There will be local business and organization exhibitors, food, music and sustainability/science attractions. We also have a Kid Zone.

LKN MAGAZINE BOUTIQUE CRAWL

This is a one-day, self-guided crawl to boutiques around the Lake Norman area! There will be 10+ participating stores ready to roll out the red carpet for you and your crew! Your general admission ticket is your all-access pass to exclusive discounts, specials and refreshments at all participating boutiques! There will also be gift card giveaways, door prizes at every stop and a grand prize giveaway! But wait, there’s more! Start the day at our pre-game party where we will have sponsor booths, music, photo ops, and coffee + treats to get you energized before you head out for the crawl! tinyurl.com/LKNMagBoutiqueCrawl24

10AM-4PM

Conversation with Your BFF

“Are You Giving What You Aren’t Getting in Your Relationship?”

by REBECCA COOPER

My BFF and I were recently talking about what we want from our relationships, both in romance and in friendships, when we went down a rabbit hole of whether or not we were actually giving what the other person wants in a relationship or if we were just seeing what we weren’t getting. That was one deep rabbit hole, but a question I am so glad we asked!

YOU CANNOT RECEIVE WHAT YOU DO NOT GIVE

If you feel like you aren’t getting the support, love, understanding, care, appreciation and effort you believe you deserve, maybe start giving what

you are lacking and see if it comes back in return. I have found that, when I give more emotionally to someone, be that a significant other, or a friend, for the most part, the giving flows back to me. Now, this doesn’t always happen; if it did, I wouldn’t be divorced, but I believe it is worth the effort and you can quickly learn how important you are to another person by how they respond. It may save you some time in relationships if you learn early on whether or not you are with someone who believes in reciprocating care.

WHAT ARE YOU FOCUSED ON?

Many times, I have found in my relationships that I’ve focused on the wrong things,

mainly, what am I not getting?

We tend to be on defense in relationships and only want to see what we are lacking and what we think could turn things around. Saying “if only…” is a bad place to find yourself in a relationship because the next step is usually “if only I had” or “if only he/she had….” Take a moment to get in touch with what you are giving out in care, affection, attention and time, and see if you up your game if that could help your partner or friend up theirs.

ARE YOU BLIND TO WHAT YOU DO HAVE?

We all have a little bit of narcissism in us at any given time in our lives, making our brains focus on all the things we are lacking in a relationship. We feel slighted if we aren’t invited to hang out after work or the gym; we feel left out if we don’t get the invite to the party; the list goes on and on. When we focus on all the things we feel we should’ve been in on, we ignore and subconsciously dismiss all the ways we are receiving connection from others because our brains are committed to the story and the narrative that we don’t have enough of something. Think of those times when your friend asked to get coffee with just you because your counsel is trusted, or the lunch you had with your coworker who is having a hard time after a loss in his or her life. It’s those little moments, not necessarily the big ones, like parties and large gatherings, that make an impact on a life and an impact is made in your life, too. It’s those one-on-one encounters where you get what you feel you need – the love, connection, appreciation, etc. and you also give those things back. Remember, it is the small details in life that can make a difference, and those are often times we gloss over.