FACE, BREAST, BODY CONTOURING, & LASER RESURFACING
SPA SERVICES
BOTOX & FILLER INJECTIONS
LASER SKIN REVITALIZATION
SKINPEN MICRO-NEEDLING THERAPY
DIAMOND GLOW RESURFACING FACIAL
AQUAGOLD MICRO-INJECTION
DERMAPLANING EXFOLIATION
MEDICAL-GRADE CHEMICAL PEELS & FACIALS
SKINCARE & MAKEUP CONSULTATIONS
COOLSCULPTING BODY FAT REDUCTION
EMSCULPT NEO MUSCLE TONING
SCOTT L. TUCKER, MD
HAMPTON A. HOWELL, MD
Kerri R. Scherer MD, FACOG
Ariana Patras DO
C. Aaron Thompson MD, FACOG
Jennifer Santos
Jill Rosser
Anthony
Masciello MD, FACOG
Thrive Together.
ThriveMore is introducing a groundbreaking approach to memory care with the EverTogether Residence, opening in late 2026 at Brookridge Life Plan Community in Winston-Salem, NC.
Designed for couples facing dementia, this first-of-its-kind residence allows partners to live together in a warm, home-like setting — not a clinical one. The thoughtfully designed circular building features 12 cozy homes surrounding a shared courtyard, blending community, comfort, and expert care. Each home includes a private studio for the resident living with dementia, ensuring safety and comfort when the care partner needs time away. Residents also have access to professional healthcare and memory care services provided by Consistent Cares compassionate team.
The Care You Deserve. The Life You Built Together.
That holiday glow?
Y ou know wh e r e to go. You know where to go.
Injectables, energy-based skin rejuvenation, physic ian-grade facials...when you want to look your best this holiday season, we’ ve got you covered.
the publisher perspective
As 2025 winds down, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the year through some of my favorite memories. From adventures to milestones, it’s been a year full of gratitude and joy!
January – 10k Step Challenge! I completed 10k steps every day in January (thankfully, my walking pad came in handy...cold weather walking isn’t for the weak!).
February – Galentine’s GNO at Robert Hall with my sweet Mamaw!
March – Our 4th Annual Women on the Move Conference at Legacy Stables & Events. What a day of inspiration and connection!
April – Cancun, Mexico, with my two best friends for my bachelorette. What an unforgettable trip!
May – Gavin and I got MARRIED! The best day ever!
June – Volunteering at Ronald McDonald House with my gym family. A day full of love and giving back.
July – Lots of lake time and meeting sweet Goldie!
August – Trip to Maine with family! The scenery is straight out of a movie.
September – Forsyth Woman’s 20th Anniversary Celebration. A party I’ll never forget!
October – An impromptu family brunch date!
November – Washington Park CrossFit turns THREE! Celebrating milestones with the people who make it all possible.
Cheers to an amazing December and to wrapping up a truly incredible year! Thank you for being part of our Forsyth Magazines family. We’re wishing you a very happy Holiday season!
With the sincere vision of inspiring clients with hope, health and healing, clinical pharmacist Mary Coffey founded Boutique Wellness in 2018. Ideally situated in Winston-Salem’s historic West End, every detail of her faithbased business is dedicated to education and empowerment.
With a goal to have patients take active roles in their own healing journeys, Mary shares that building relationships is key.
“We always begin with open communication, exploring treatments that represent the cutting edge of technology,” she adds. “Through aesthetics and regenerative medicine, Boutique Wellness delivers safe, advanced, tailored care for natural beauty and wellness.”
The repertoire of services at Boutique Wellness is extensive – with Emsculpt, PRF (platelet-rich fibrin), Botox, 2D facelifts, radiofrequency microneedling, hormone balancing, sexual wellness and hormone replacement therapy for men some of the most frequently requested. Hair restoration is also a popular service – which includes hormone balancing, scalp preparation and rejuvenation, red light therapy and the application of peptides to the scalp.
During the month of December, Boutique Wellness is thrilled to offer an exclusive discount package, bringing you luxury treatments at accessible prices. You can now enjoy three Pladuo sessions, along with three RF Microneedling sessions, for only $3,500 – a package that normally retails for more than $5,500.
Also for a limited time, their IPL (Intense Pulse Light therapy), regularly priced at $399, is available for just $199.
“This incredible offer provides you with the opportunity to refresh your skin and address concerns such as pigmentation, sun damage and fine lines,” shares Mary. “Our passionate, skilled staff is eager to welcome and guide you through this transformative treatment.
Don’t miss out on these fantastic deals – schedule your consultation today!”
Every Boutique Wellness session is designed to rejuvenate and revitalize, providing clients with a premium wellness experience. Don’t miss out on this exceptional opportunity to invest in your well being, while having the dedicated staff help you achieve radiant, younger looking skin.
Medical Director Dr. Joe Cleaver performs all procedures at Boutique Wellness –with clients typically ranging in age from 35 to 70 – and including both women and men. A fellow of the American Board of Anti-Aging/Regenerative Medicine, Dr. Cleaver is board certified in both internal medicine and anti-aging and regenerative medicine. He also holds certification in advanced metabolic endocrinology, specializing in bioidentical hormone therapy, and lectures nationally and internationally on various aspects of longevity medicine.
Mary is also double board certified in clinical nutrition through the American Academy of Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine, and a fellow of the American Academy of Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine. Clients interested in the medical weight loss program at Boutique Wellness also rave about their comprehensive approach that addresses hormones, inflammation and thyroid issues, with the ultimate goal of sustainable weight loss and enhanced body contouring.
“From our first conversation to witnessing their ultimate transformation, I personally learn something new with every patient I meet,” Mary shares. “In turn, patients learn that with the right commitment, anyone can reshape their body.
Begin your own personal wellness journey by visiting Boutique Wellness at 848 W. 5th Street, Suite 201, in Winston-Salem. For more information call 336.530.5612 or visit boutiquewellnessnc.com. Office hours are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Sign up for the Boutique Wellness newsletter, and follow them on Instagram @ boutiquewellnessnc to ensure you stay updated on all upcoming special offers.
“I had an exceptional experience at Boutique Wellness for a facial treatment. From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere was calm, clean and welcoming. The esthetician was highly knowledgeable and took time to understand my skin concerns before customizing a treatment specifically for me. The facial itself was incredibly relaxing and left my skin feeling refreshed, hydrated and noticeably smoother. I appreciated the attention to detail and the use of high quality products throughout the service. It’s clear Boutique Wellness values professionalism and personalized care, and I highly recommend them for anyone looking to elevate their skincare routine in a serene setting!” ~ Lacey B.
Boutique Wellness
Located in the heart of Winston-Salem, Boutique Wellness NC is your trusted destination for aesthetic, regenerative, and wellness treatments all delivered with a personalized touch. Some of our most popular services include Tox to smooth fine lines and refresh your look, the PlaDuo Pro for advanced dual plasma skin rejuvenation, IPL to target redness, pigmentation, and sun damage, and EmSculpt Neo, which helps build muscle and burn fat with zero downtime.
Specials
IPL Photofacial — $199
Say goodbye to redness, sun spots, and uneven skin tone with our IPL Photofacial for a limited time. Brighten, smooth, and refresh your skin with one of our most loved treatments, at a price you don’t want to miss.
PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) Derma Gel treatment — $2,400
Minimum of two sessions
Scan Here to make an Appointment
Hours: Wed & Thurs 5-9pm, Fri & Sat 5-10pm Reservations recommended via OpenTable
We
host Corporate and Private Events
Free Parking available in our Parking Lot accessible via W 4 ½ Street Follow us on Facebook/Instagram @manolosboutiquewines
We
Now Offer Catering!
Bring the Manolo’s experience to your next event. Handcrafted Italian flavors, fine wines, and unforgettable service, tailored just for you. Must order 48 hours in advance - Call or Text 336-703-8738
Three Self Care Tips for the Holiday Season
tis the Season for You – How to Keep Calm and Sparkle On
by SUZY FIELDERS
While the holidays might be “the most wonderful time of the year,” they also tend to get somewhat stressful. For professional women, mothers and female entrepreneurs or business owners, it feels like that stress seems to double. The best way to combat that stress – especially during this busy season – is self care!
It’s easy to push it aside to tackle the neverending to-do list, but it’s so important to keep on track with self care. You are no good to your family, friends, clients or even yourself if you don’t focus at least a little on caring for yourself this holiday season.
Remember self care is anything where you focus on yourself! You don’t even have to do anything big, and there are plenty of fun ways to tie in to the holidays. Here are three of my favorite self care options and routines during the holidays.
2 1 3
SCHEDULE “SPA” TIME
There is nothing more relaxing than spa routines and treatments. Plus, there are so many options that you can do something that fits within your budget and time constraints.
For those on a tight budget (let’s face it, holiday gifts are not cheap), you can have an at-home spa day by turning your bathroom into a luxury spa. Think bubble bath, candles and a fun pedicure.
If you are tight on time, consider doing your own facial at home or opting for a spa hour versus a spa day at your favorite local spa.
Most importantly, put it on your calendar! This will help you not forget as well as keep you accountable for going through with it.
GET FESTIVE
One of the best things about the holidays is you can tie it into virtually anything! This is true of self care, too.
For baths or spa time at home, consider using holiday scents in your routine such as lotions, bubble bath and candles.
If self care to you means enjoying a cup of tea or coffee in the morning while the house is quiet, choose a holiday flavor, like peppermint or gingerbread.
Holiday music is seriously also great to have on in the background during almost any self care time you choose. There are soft instrumental festive songs for yoga time or upbeat ones if dance parties are your way to recharge.
TURN HOLIDAY TASKS INTO YOU TIME
There are plenty of holiday tasks on that to-do list mentioned early that can go from stressful to fun.
I used to hate wrapping gifts – it felt like such a chore. Then, I decided to start doing it after everyone, or at least the kids, were asleep, while watching some of my favorite holiday movies and drinking wine. Now, I look forward to this time every year – and totally consider it my own holiday self care.
Another good option is shopping. If you normally love shopping but dread it due to the crowds, find a way to make it fun during this time of year. Choose and set a time when you aren’t busy or rushed. Bring a friend –and maybe even grab your favorite cocktails or cup of coffee beforehand.
These simple flips on mundane holiday tasks can easily turn them from stress to self care!
Keeping It Real
WHEN CHRISTMAS FEELS UPSIDE DOWN, MAYBE IT’S JUUUUUST RIGHT!
It’s December, so let’s assess our present predicament.
Decorations…have you started? Gifts purchased? (What to get people who have everything?) Oh yeah, wrapping too?
Do you know what you’re wearing to that Christmas party? What about the dish you’re supposed to bring?
Are you hyperventilating yet? WHEW!
December is one of my favorite times of the year! We open our home for SO MANY joy-filled evenings, starting with a special meal and time connecting with the widows of our church. (We call them “Survivors” because they are the strongest women I know!)
Our front door revolves from that moment forward, throughout this festive season. (Makes me tired just to write it!)
If it’s the most wonderful time of the year, why is it that we need reminders of that daily?!
And, why is it that we think everything must be perfect… seamless…so tidy?
The truth is, nothing about that first Christmas even hinted at such.
The stables? Nasty!
The feeding trough with lamb’s drool dribbling down the sides? Disgusting…especially for a newborn!
Actually, no person that first Christmas could have felt like they had their act together. Joseph surely suffered humiliation as his laborridden wife agonized through her last pushes in that putrid straw. It’s
by DR. DEBBIE LANIER
the last place they imagined such a significant birth unfolding.
Mary’s contractions with no epidural? Y’ALL!
The night air in that region chills grown men. Surely it shivered an infant.
Hear me! While everything surely felt so wrong, all of it ultimately proved so right!
This couple landed exactly where God intended. Every imperfection proved perfect!
It leaves me wondering about all the messiness amid our Christmas planning. Are we focused on fixing the imperfections? Or can we trust God to make what feels so inferior become just right?
Sometimes, as our best-laid ideas go up in smoke, we land exactly where God designed all along. The imperfections become so breathtakingly perfect!
What if we looked upon this hectic season and chose to embrace the flaws and deficiencies? What if we decided to view the situations that FEEL so wrong as situations God is perfectly redeeming?
Maybe you stress over adult children that can’t get along. Perhaps your gifts aren’t as “grand” as the other grandparents. Maybe what you have to offer seems inadequate on every level.
When it comes to Christmas, all is not as it seems. It is more, so very much more!
“CHRISTmas cannot be bought. CHRISTmas cannot be created. CHRISTmas cannot be made by hand, lit up, set out, dreamed up. CHRISTmas can only be found” . . . in Jesus. (Ann Voskamp)
So, let’s not scale back CHRISTmas. Let’s scale up WHO CHRISTmas is all about!
And, when we do, Christmas will become the most imperfectly perfect celebration you’ve ever experienced!
Think about it. “What religion ever had a god that wanted such intimacy WITH us that He came with such vulnerability TO us? What God ever came so tender we could touch Him? So fragile that we could break Him? So vulnerable that His bare, beating heart could be hurt? Only the One who loves us to death!” (Voskamp)
I don’t know what might be feeling upside down for you this season, but I do know this – no matter what, with HIM, everything can be just right!
For comments or prayer, please contact Dr. Lanier at HopeCommunityChurch.tv.
JODIE BRIM
CREATIVE
PEOPLE OF PROMINENCE SERIES
by MICHAEL JOHNSON
Cheryl Frazier
“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.”
~ John Quincy Adams
Dr. Cheryl Frazier is making a daily difference. This series of interviews features people who unabashedly exhibit greatness and prominence within their field. They exude special characteristics their work community celebrates. Dr. Cheryl Frazier is someone beloved and cherished who expresses her personal and professional mottos of leadership through compassion. Ask the students, staff and parents of Bolton Elementary and they will loudly concede that Dr. Frazier is the epitome of someone who is a true person of prominence. We conclude this series of interviews with Dr. Frazier’s story to showcase her important work in the oftentimes under-celebrated field of child education.
TELL US ABOUT WHERE YOU GREW UP AND IF ANY EVENTS OR SITUATIONS INFORMED YOUR LOVE OF EDUCATION.
I grew up in a small town in Northern New Jersey. I attended Catholic schools there. I have two siblings that are 12 and 14 years younger than me. Watching them grow and evolve and to watch their educational journey inspired me. It was working with them and volunteering during their early years that had a great impact on me! Growing up, I loved reading and learning. I taught 1st grade in NJ for eight years prior to moving to NC.
SPEAK ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY WITHIN THE WS/FCS (WINSTONSALEM FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS) SYSTEM THAT LED YOU TO YOUR CURRENT POSITION.
I relocated to NC in 1997. My first job in WS/FCS was as a second grade teacher at North Hills Elementary the year it
opened. From there, I was the Curriculum Coordinator at Diggs Elementary in 2000. I became the Assistant Principal at Diggs in 2006 and then at Diggs-Latham the year the schools merged in 2009. In 2015, I became principal at Bolton Elementary, my current role.
WHAT ARE YOUR DAILY PURSUITS AS THE LEADER OF A FIRST RATE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL?
My daily pursuit as the principal of Bolton has been to create and nurture an environment where students/scholars, staff and families know that they are valued and supported. I spend time making sure that I monitor instruction and student progress. I spend a lot of time nurturing collaboration and trust through my presence and consistency
WHAT ARE YOUR PERSONAL MOTTOS AS YOU TACKLE THE FULL ITINERARY AT YOUR SCHOOL?
My first year at Bolton, I was inspired by the driving thought to “Dream Big!” I believe that when we have something in our sight and we dream big, everything we do and say needs to align with that vision/goal. As I look back over my time at Bolton, one phrase sticks with me – “Love Leads Here!” Every day is a journey of love that inspires and supports growth and development.
WHAT DO THE CHILDREN NEED MOST FROM A PRINCIPAL, AND WHAT DOES THE STAFF NEED MOST?
Children and staff both need unwavering support, encouragement and a person who sees how far they can go and is willing to do what’s necessary for them to get there!
ANY PERSONAL ANECDOTES AS AN EDUCATOR OR ADMINISTRATOR THAT ARE CAUSES FOR CELEBRATION?
I love to celebrate all our small wins! Every day, before leaving school, I reflect on the small wins for that day! As part of our morning announcements, we invite scholars, teachers, school staff and families to submit shout outs that will be encouraging and that remind us that we work and learn with amazing people who celebrate even the smallest win.
WHAT DO YOU WISH THE PUBLIC WOULD RECOGNIZE WHEN CONSIDERING THE COUNTLESS WAYS EDUCATORS MAKE A DIFFERENCE?
I wish our community knew that progress is happening – even if it’s not always visible at first. Growth in math and reading, confidence, attendance and character doesn’t always show on the first day we begin, but it’s happening quietly, steadily and meaningfully. I wish they knew how much community support means to schools. The community’s partnership matters. Volunteers, mentors, business partners and families strengthen the work. At Bolton, we are incredibly grateful to our business partners. They have been a phenomenal source of encouragement and support!
WHAT CAN PARENTS DO TO SUPPORT THEIR SCHOOLS AND THEIR CHILDREN’S TEACHERS?
Families can help by placing extra emphasis on reading outside of school. This is an essential key to school and career success.
WHAT CONSTITUTES A GREAT DAY AT YOUR SCHOOL FOR YOU?
A good day at Bolton is when I walk into classrooms and see students thinking, trying, questioning and growing. The focus isn’t on perfection – it’s on progress. I love to see and feel the learning happening. A good day includes moments of connection – a teacher teaming up with a colleague, a student helping another, a student or adult expressing gratitude, or a leader and teacher solving a problem together. Students learned, teachers felt supported and I led with heart…that’s a truly phenomenal day!
Sweet Traditions Start Here
Celebrate the season with our crowd-favorites — Iced 5-Flavor Pound Cake, Italian Cream Cake, Apple Pie, Chocolate-Chocolate Cake, and Macadamia Nut Carrot Cake. Freshly baked, locally loved.
You can place your order online or give us a call to pre-order your desserts.
5-Flavor Pound Cake Apple Pie Italian Cream Cake
Chocolate-Chocolate Cake
Macadamia Nut Carrot Cake
5 Things You Didn’t Know About 529 Plans Making Dollars, Making $ense
BY STEVEN GALLO, CFP®, FINANCIAL ADVISOR
When it comes to saving for your child’s education, 529 plans are a popular choice due to their tax advantages and flexibility. However, there are several lesser known aspects of 529 plans that can enhance your saving strategy.
Here are five things you might not know about 529 plans:
1
YOU AREN’T LIMITED TO THE 529 PROVIDED IN
YOUR HOME STATE.
There are numerous plans available nationwide. You can compare them based on factors such as maximum contribution limits, fees and available tax benefits. Identify your priorities and select a plan that best meets those criteria.
2
YOU CAN CHANGE BENEFICIARIES OR SHIFT FUNDS PRETTY EASILY.
529 plans are more flexible than you might think when it comes to beneficiaries. You can change the beneficiary to another family member without incurring taxes or penalties. This feature is particularly useful if one child decides not to attend college, allowing you to use the funds for another child’s education. Additionally, you can roll over funds from one 529 plan to another beneficiary’s 529 plan once every 12 months without penalties.
QUALIFIED EDUCATION EXPENSES ARE BROADER THAN YOU THINK.
Funds from 529 plans can be used for a wide range of educational expenses beyond just tuition. Qualified expenses include room and board, textbooks, computers and even internet access required for schooling. This flexibility ensures that more of your education costs can be covered using the tax-advantaged savings in your 529 plan.
THE IMPACT ON FINANCIAL AID IS MINIMAL.
Many parents worry about how a 529 plan will affect their child’s eligibility for financial aid. While 529 plans are considered parental assets and do impact financial aid calculations, the impact is relatively minor. Typically, only up to 5.64% of the value of a 529 plan is counted towards the expected family contribution (EFC) on the FAFSA. This is much lower than the assessment rate for student-owned assets, which can be as high as 20%.
3 4 5
YOU HAVE FLEXIBILITY WITH UNUSED FUNDS.
If your child doesn’t use all the funds in his or her 529 plan, you have several options. As mentioned, you can change the beneficiary to another family member or use the funds for graduate school.
Most notably, beginning in 2024, you can also roll over unused 529 plan funds to a Roth IRA for the same beneficiary. This rollover allows you to convert up to $35,000 of 529 plan funds to a Roth IRA over the beneficiary’s lifetime, providing a significant opportunity for tax-advantaged retirement savings.
Understanding these lesser known aspects of 529 plans can help you make the most of your savings strategy for educational expenses. From state tax benefits and flexible use of funds to minimal impact on financial aid, 529 plans offer a variety of features that can be tailored to your family’s needs.
Sources
U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. (2023, August 31). Updated Investor Bulletin: 10 Questions to Consider Before Opening a 529 Account. SEC. Retrieved June 25, 2024, from sec. gov/oiea/investor-alerts-and-bulletins/ib_529accountquestions.
Compare 529 Plans By State. (2023, October 17). Forbes Advisor. Retrieved June 25, 2024, from forbes.com/advisor/student-loans/ compare-529-plans-by-state.
If you’re currently exploring plastic surgery, you’ve already realized these are intensely personal decisions. And, if the providers you’re following seem to be producing results that look harsh and overly dramatic, expand your search to professionals who value beauty both inside and out.
Get to know Forsyth Plastic Surgery in Winston-Salem, NC – home to four board certified plastic surgeons ready to help you achieve subtle enhancements that create a refreshed version of your beautiful self. Drs. Schneider, Kingman, Lawson and Branch make up this respected practice – consistently named the #1 Cosmetic/Plastic Surgery Center by The Winston-Salem Journal’s Readers’ Choice Awards.
Keeping a keen eye on balance, proportion and improving your current features, it’s important to have trained physicians on your team. Choosing a board certified plastic surgeon ensures you’re working with a physician who’s undergone extensive education and training and is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) – the only board recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties for plastic surgery.
Certification represents a mastery of both the science and artistry of plastic surgery, along with a commitment to patient safety and ethical standards. Board certified providers complete years of surgical training, maintain ongoing education and operate only in accredited surgical facilities. That means patients
feel confident knowing they’re in the hands of experienced professionals who prioritize safety, precision and natural results.
“Many physicians offer procedures outside the scope of their education and training. That could lead to complications requiring costly revision surgery. The main reason board certification matters for plastic surgery is patient safety! All of our surgeons are board certified and experienced in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery,” shares Dr. Leslie Branch.
Putting yourself in the capable hands of an accredited onsite surgery center also matters. Surgery performed onsite at The Plastic Surgery Center of North Carolina (PSC), housed within Forsyth Plastic Surgery, offers benefits beyond just convenience – including privacy and peace of mind. The QUAD-A accredited surgical facility meets the same rigorous standards as hospital operating rooms, ensuring the highest level of safety, with a comfortable, more personalized environment. With operating suites within the facility, patients are cared for by the same team they met during their consultations. This continuity fosters trust, ensuring every step of the process is handled with the highest level of personal care –something that’s a major mission at Forsyth Plastic Surgery.
“We are very fortunate to have our own private accredited surgery center in our WinstonSalem office,” adds Dr. Andrew Schneider. “The efficiency
by MARTIE EMORY
and privacy of our facility is a much better option than going through a hospital, and our staff is specifically trained for cosmetic procedures. They will help you through every step, ensuring you are comfortable and cared for!”
“One of the great things about our practice is we spend time getting to know our patients,” says Dr. George Lawson III. “Each person has different goals, and we want to achieve them when it’s possible and appropriate. New patients spend dedicated time with their doctors in consultation, and then at another pre-operative visit, before any actual procedures. This provides a chance to ask questions and for surgeons to review their expected achievable outcomes.“
Complementing Forsyth Plastic Surgery, The VISTA MedSpa is a medical aesthetics center where advanced technology and personalized care come together. The VISTA MedSpa offers a curated range of non-surgical options that provide resultdriven treatments – all within a relaxing, physician-supervised environment. Treatment plans are customized based on the patient’s unique goals, skin type and lifestyle, and the team of licensed medical aestheticians works closely with plastic surgeons to ensure safe, natural results.
The VISTA’s most popular treatments include:
DiamondGlow®
A customizable three-in-one facial that exfoliates, extracts and infuses condition-specific serums for instantly radiant skin.
Microneedling
Boosts collagen production and improves texture, tone and fine lines.
RF Microneedling
Combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy for deeper collagen remodeling and skin tightening.
CoolSculpting® and CoolTone®
Non-invasive body contouring treatments to sculpt and strengthen target areas.
IPL Photofacials
Treats sun damage, redness and uneven pigmentation for a clearer, more even complexion.
The VISTA blends clinical expertise with a luxury spa experience, offering trusted aesthetic care in an environment of comfort and confidence!
“We have a wonderful staff of beauty experts, and the spa is directly overseen by our four plastic surgeons,” explains Dr. Gilson Kingman. “Not every patient needs or is interested in surgery, and The VISTA allows them other options. Our patients come in for different reasons, including expert skin care, facials and peels, laser treatments for hair removal, wrinkles, sun damage, pigmented lesions –even tattoo removal.”
For more information on Forsyth Plastic Surgery or The VISTA –located at 2901 Maplewood Avenue in Winston-Salem –please visit the practice’s website at forsythplasticsurgery.com. To make an appointment, call 336.765.8620.
Schedule your free consultation at home or work!
• Blinds
• Shutters
• Shades
• Drapes
• Home Automation
• Window Film
We at Budget Blinds of North Winston Salem, Mt Airy, and Boone wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. We appreciate the opportunities we’ve had to serve you in 2024 and we look forward to making windows more beautiful, functional, and safe for our clients in 2025.
Budget Blinds of North W inston Salem, Mt Airy, Boone, and the High Country proudly serves Forsyth, Stokes, Surry, Yadkin, Alleghany, Ashe, Watauga, W ilkes, and surrounding counties.
and service for every budget.® North Winston-Salem, Mt Airy, Boone and The High Country
DENTAL
UNIVERSITY DENTAL ASSOCIATES
SCOTT F. TUCKER DDS, MS, PA
Oral Health Can Equal Better Health
by DR. C. RICHARDSON DANIEL DMD, FAAHD, DABSCD
photos by JODIE BRIM CREATIVE
So here we are, writing about the “elephant” in this article — dental care and going to the dentist.
Some people love going to the dentist and are viewed as suspect by those who hate it. Some say they would rather have a baby — and that’s from the guys! Those who hate going to the dentist are an enigma to those who love it. Still others go to the dentist out of habit since childhood — which is a very good habit. Some patients only visit a dentist when there’s an emergency, and you know who you are!
For whatever reason you actually make it to that La-Z-Boy-style, very comfortable dental chair, you know those sounds, aromas, poking instruments, vibration, Niagara Falls amount of water, and suction that seems it could remove tonsils all come to mind. And that’s after the muchanticipated “numbing.” Then, of course, the involuntary nose itching.
Let’s think of each tooth as a small, individual person capable of copping an attitude or misbehaving with sensitivity and even pain, otherwise not working and playing well with others. Yes, other teeth may have had less, more, or similar treatment but never reacted the same way. Each tooth can be a good or bad actor, even after what can be thought of as a simple cleaning.
All of the above nuances of going to the dentist are just the tip of the iceberg. Most media commercials advertise the best brush, breath rinses, enamel hardeners, whitening products, adhesives, picketfence perfectly aligned teeth, and a glorious smile. Nothing is wrong with the ads, as long as everyone understands there is more to oral health than what’s advertised. Oral care is required for oral health. And science is
constantly revealing oral health is required for better health.
Oral care can be simple and not overly taxing — until it’s not. In healthcare, the proverb “the cure can be worse than the disease” can sometimes be true. When oral care becomes complex, there can be more discomfort, lack of function, and acute or chronic infections that can lead to increased morbidity or even mortality risk. Not all of us possess the same protoplasm, and even with the best oral care and achieving what one would consider great oral health, none of us are free from risks like trauma, tissue diseases, effects from certain medications, and oral cancer, to mention a few. The oral environment isn’t only teeth — it’s different types of oral tissues, taste buds, salivary glands and ducts, bone, muscles, ligaments, discs, nerves, and blood vessels. All can be affected by systemic health and changes, and they can influence and initiate systemic changes throughout the body. Not enough significance is placed on oral care being part of general medical care.
Based on observations made in the 1980s and the more robust scientific findings beginning in the 1990s, it’s abundantly clear that “Oral Care Leads to Oral Health and Oral Health Can Lead to Better HealthTM.” While reading all the science and studies might be riveting to some, to others such reading may be the unheralded cure for insomnia.
The national and international peer-reviewed, well-vetted studies, research, and findings have far exceeded what we thought or even envisioned years ago. There is now more clarity and evidence about the connections between inflammatory disease and subsequent systemic inflammation, systemic disease caused by or worsened by oral infection, and the association between oral, cardiovascular, and cerebrovascular health and oral pathologies and oral cancers.
Oral disease is one of the most prevalent diseases in the world and can be painful, disruptive, disfiguring, and complex. It can have a significant effect on one’s life from childhood through old age. The cost of treating oral disease is in
the millions of dollars and reaching a billion dollars for emergency rooms, publicly funded programs, and individuals. Oral disease can cause any treatment to fail regardless of the expense and state-of-the-art treatment.
The message? Do what’s possible to prevent oral disease and its subsequent effects on your overall health and life. Oral care can lead to oral health, which can lead to better health.
If oral care is a habit — wonderful! If it is not, get started now!
Care … for Better Health® Oral Health … for Better Health®
(Officially Registered Trademarks of Dr. C. Richardson Daniel)
University Dental Associates Cloverdale offers hours Monday through Thursday, 8:00 a.m. –5:00 p.m.; Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., and is available 24/7 for emergencies. To find a location or schedule an appointment online, visit udadentistry.com. University Dental Associates - Cloverdale is located at 2287 Cloverdale Avenue NW, WinstonSalem, 336.837.2680. Other Winston-Salem locations are at 1615 S. Hawthorne Road, 336.768.3454, and 2020 Village Link Drive, 336.923.4262. In Clemmons, find University Dental Associates at 6201 Town Center Drive, Suite 130, 336.778.9199, and 2311 Lewisville Clemmons Road, Suite 301, 336.631.4770.
Skip the Stuff This Christmas
GIVING EXPERIENCES IS THE ULTIMATE GIFT
by CAROLYN SHORE PETERSON
Each year, as December rolls around, we find ourselves in the same festive frenzy – searching for gifts that strike the perfect balance of thoughtful, useful and within budget. We scour Oprah’s Favorite Things list, Google “this year’s hottest gifts” and make lists of what we think would be good gifts for family and friends. We wrap pajamas they probably already own, pick up another candle or settle on a pair of fuzzy socks they will likely forget they have by February. But, what if this year, you gave something different…something they will actually remember for years to come?
THE GIFT OF EXPERIENCES
Instead of wrapping things that collect dust, why not give memories that last a lifetime? About 10 years ago, I just couldn’t think of a thing to give my BFFs that they didn’t already have, so I decided to give them an experience; one involving myself, too, so we would have a shared moment, a story and a chance to deepen our connection as friends.
WHY EXPERIENCES MAKE BETTER GIFTS
In a world where everyone is busy, offering your time is one of the most valuable gifts you can give. The first year that I gave an experience to my BFFs, Emily and Karen, I gifted them an afternoon at a local vineyard, Divine Llama, for a llama trek and a wine tasting. To say they had a good time would be an understatement. The trekking experience was out of the box for both of them. We spent that day together laughing, meeting baby llamas and talking about how we’d always have this day.
How many gifts end up in a donation pile or tucked away in the back of a closet? Experiences don’t require shelf space. There are no awkward sizes, no mismatched aesthetics and no exchanges necessary. No gift receipt is needed! In the years since that first experience, I have given concert tickets to my BFFs. Thankfully, we all like the same music, country, so I find the artists we either have never seen or those who are our favorites and get the best seats available.
Years from now, your friends won’t remember the scarf you gave them, but they’ll laugh about the llama that nipped at their hair or argue about who Tim McGraw really looked at when he smiled.
Other experiences that can be fun are wine paint nights, craft nights, dinner and a movie, or driving through the local holiday light display followed by dinner. Any activity that brings you and your friends together and makes memories is a good idea.
MEMORIES > MERCHANDISE
At the heart of the holidays is connection. While physical gifts can be fun, the moments you spend laughing, learning or simply being present with your friends will always outshine another pair of slippers or a candle in the year’s favorite scent.
This Christmas, ditch the predictable gifts and start building a collection of unforgettable memories. Your friends will thank you this year and for many more to come.
Since opening in 1970, Forsyth Medical Supply in Winston-Salem has offered the most trusted brands – at some of the best available prices – to families across Winston-Salem and the surrounding areas.
While you’re focused on providing loved ones with the safest holidays possible, Store Manager Brenna Chandler shares the staff’s top 10 gift ideas for seniors. Many items are available for both rental and purchase – with rental an ideal choice for loved ones hosting seniors in their home for the holidays.
With their extensive selection and qualified team to guide you, Forsyth Medical Supply provides the perfect environment to view products in person and make the most informed decisions possible for your family members!
1. LIFT CHAIRS – A power reclining lift chair is a game changer for folks who want to maintain independence at home. Not only do lift chairs raise the person and eventually stand them up, some recline flat like a bed and many come with heat and massage. “We work one on one with each customer to ensure the best size (from petite to tall, and even extra wide), the best fabric (people with incontinence issues worry about the fabric) and the features that will work best for their needs,” shares Brenna.
2. POWER WHEELCHAIRS – Perfect options for seniors or those with mobility challenges – these motorized wheelchairs have an excellent turning radius which is ideal for tight spaces in the home. Travel-friendly units can break down into manageable pieces to easily lift in and out of your car, and some fold down in one piece. The lightest weight option is only 13 pounds.
SafeHomeat
for the Holidays
by MARTIE EMORY
photos by MEGAN SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY
3. ROLLATORS – While many people refer to this as a “walker with a seat,” the rollator is ideal for individuals who typically have good mobility but need the extra support of a seat when it’s time to take a break. Styles, heights and wheel sizes vary, and all come with easyto-use brakes and storage space, allowing the user to keep essentials close by. More than 10 types of rollators are assembled in the store.
4. SHOWER CHAIRS – With the bathroom the most common place for home falls, a shower chair can reduce the risk of falling and offer a safe place to sit and bathe. Many styles are height adjustable and include non-slip tips for added stability.
5. RAISED TOILET SEATS – Getting on and off the toilet becomes a challenge for seniors, and a raised seat can be easily installed over the existing toilet, giving an extra 3.5” rise to your commode height. Side arms can be added if space allows.
6. DIGITAL BLOOD PRESSURE
MONITORS – Monitoring blood pressure at home is a common task for managing many different conditions and reducing your number of doctor visits. The digital home monitor is the most accurate – when you have the correct size cuff – and the staff can measure the arm and recommend the cuff size to give the most accurate reading.
7. FASHIONABLE CANES – The most common walking aid is a height adjustable cane. “We have many fun colors, prints and patterns (flowers, patriotic, polka dots, wood grain, etc.) to choose from,” adds Brenna. “We have one customer who has a different colored cane for every church outfit! We know when a customer really likes the product, they use it more often.”
8.
COLORED WALKERS &
ACCESSORIES – A traditional walker helps older people maintain independence at home, while providing stability from balance issues. These typically have two wheels in the front and tennis balls or glide skis in the back. While you may think of the traditional silver color for walkers, Forsyth Medical Supply stocks pink, blue, purple, black and gold walkers – many with accessories such as cup holders, baskets, trays and bags.
9. NO RINSE SHAMPOO CAPS – Many seniors, especially women, find it a chore to wash their hair weekly, and shampoo caps that include a rinse-free shampoo solution aid with easy washing in between full showers. Full body wipes – that can be warmed in the microwave – are also popular.
10. GIFT CARD FOR COMPRESSION STOCKINGS
– Compression stockings are vital in managing unwanted swelling, increasing circulation and reducing tired, achy legs and feet. The staff measures each customer to obtain the correct fit and level of compression – which can make all the difference. Styles vary from sheer (popular choice for women), men’s cotton-based socks (larger foot portion and padded sole) and fun colors and patterns.
Forsyth Medical Supply serves clients throughout Winston-Salem, Clemmons, Kernersville, Statesville, Mooresville, Mount Airy, Pilot Mountain, Oak Ridge and Summerfield. Visit their showroom at 3033 Trenwest Drive, WinstonSalem, 336.768.5512 and online at forsythmedicalsupply.com. Hours are Monday through Friday 9 am – 5:30 pm.
Thriving BEYOND THE ODDS: The Inspiring Journey of Tamron Little
At just 21 years old, Tamron Little’s world turned upside down. What doctors had assured her was a harmless fibroid discovered during pregnancy turned out to be something far more devastating.
“When I was first diagnosed, it came after having a tumor removed,” Tamron recalled. “I had been told it was just a fibroid and that there was nothing to worry about. I wasn’t expecting to wake up from surgery and hear the words, ‘you have cancer.’ A rare cancer I had never even heard of before. The best way I can describe that moment is shock; the day my whole life became a tornado, and I was the eye of the storm.”
The diagnosis – peritoneal mesothelioma – came with an even harsher blow. Doctors told her she had just 18 months to live. “All I could think about in that moment was my baby at home waiting for me to return,” Tamron said. “Everything else the doctors said went in one ear and out the other.”
A BREAKTHROUGH TREATMENT AND RENEWED HOPE
After an initial referral to a physician who offered no treatment plan, Tamron’s mother, working at Wake Forest Baptist Health, sought prayers from her coworkers. That led to Dr. Edward Levine, one of the few specialists at the time performing groundbreaking HIPEC surgery, a 12-hour procedure combining tumor removal with heated chemotherapy.
“Dr. Levine and his team were lifesavers. He lit the glimmer of hope I had. In the middle of my darkest storm, when the words ‘18 months to live’ threatened to swallow me whole, he reminded me that survival was possible,” commented Tamron.
by CAROLYN SHORE PETERSON
Even with advanced treatment, the road was far from easy. “Every doctor’s appointment, I could sense that some people had given up on me,” Tamron recalled. “It’s so hard navigating a cancer diagnosis but even harder when it’s rare and your care team isn’t fighting for you. Looking back, I thank God for giving me the strength to never give up on myself, even when others did.”
FAMILY, FAITH AND MIRACLES
That strength carried Tamron through the darkest seasons of her journey. “I found my strength in my faith. Prayer became my lifeline. My husband was my right hand, and my son was my motivation to live. Between my faith in God and the love of my family, I discovered a resilience I never knew I had,” said Tamron.
Doctors warned Tamron that motherhood beyond her first child was unlikely. Yet, in time, Tamron and her husband welcomed three more children. “My oldest son, Caleb, was my lifesaver, and my other three are my miracles,” Tamron shared. “When my second son came, we were shocked. Then came the third; then the fourth. During one of my followups, my doctor jokingly said I had already proven him wrong.”
Her children continue to teach her powerful lessons. “They remind me to always keep hope alive. When doctors told me to be grateful for the one child I had, I was grateful, but God had more in store,” stated Tamron.
CHOOSING RESILIENCE OVER DESPAIR
One of Tamron’s turning points came when she realized her life depended on advocating for herself. “At my last appointment with my original oncologist, I asked again if he knew of any treatment that could help me. His answer was “no.” I looked at him and said, ‘if you
cannot help me, then I will find someone who will,’ and I walked out of his office. That was the day I chose to fight. I chose to live,” Tamron recalled.
That choice has shaped her perspective on life ever since. “Being diagnosed at 21 taught me that time is not guaranteed. It forced me to slow down, be present and truly enjoy the moments, my children’s laughter, my husband’s hand in mine, the quiet peace of prayer,” said Tamron.
TURNING PAIN INTO PURPOSE
Eighteen years after her diagnosis, Tamron now shares her story as a contributing writer for The Mesothelioma Center at asbestos. com and a patient advocate. “I was given the gift of life, and I refuse to keep that to myself,” Tarmon commented. “At 21, I was told I only had 18 months to live, yet here I am, thriving years later. Speaking out is my way of turning pain into purpose. If I can inspire one person to keep fighting, then everything I went through has meaning.”
THRIVING TODAY
For Tamron, thriving means living with purpose, gratitude and joy. “Cherishing simple moments, using my voice to advocate for others and walking boldly in the calling God has placed on my life. Thriving is not about perfection; it is about presence,” stated Tamron.
To anyone feeling hopeless, Tamron shared this comment: “Do not give up. What feels like the end is not the end of your story. Hold on to faith, hold on to hope and believe that brighter days are still ahead. God has the final say, and He can turn even the darkest chapter into a testimony of survival and thriving. You can thrive in the midst of it all.”
Empower RF
A revolutionary workstation designed for total rejuvenation
Women’s Wellness: Vaginal rejuvenation with VTone, FormaV & Morpheus8V
Face & Body: Tightening, contouring, and smoothing with Morpheus8
(Includes face, neck, stretch marks & more)
Timeless Elegance. Modern Innovation.
Signature Spa Services
Customized Facials & Peels
Dermaplaning
Microneedling
Botox
Triton
The latest in high-power laser hair removal with advanced technology for safe, effective, and lasting results
Scan here for more information or to make an appointment
At Lyndhurst Rejuvenation & Aesthetics, we are blending cutting-edge science with the art of self-care to help you look and feel your best - from the inside out!
Tucked away in the quiet countryside of Rutherfordton, NC, Camp Patriot is more than just an animal sanctuary and rescue… it’s a place of healing, second chances and unconditional love. Dedicated to rescuing abused, abandoned and neglected animals, Camp Patriot offers a safe haven where creatures great and small can recover, thrive and live out their lives with dignity.
FROM VISION TO REALITY
Camp Patriot Animal Rescue & Sanctuary was not born from a single moment of inspiration but through years of conviction. Nick Jongebloed and Tara Ballard began fostering dogs in 2003, taking in one or two at a time. When they moved to a larger property, saying “no” to desperate requests became nearly impossible.
“Animal rescue had been on my vision board for more than a decade,” Nick recalled. “It wasn’t one lightning-bolt event, but a growing conviction. The real challenge hasn’t been animals –it’s human apathy. People say, ‘someone should do something,’ but very few step forward.”
Supporter and Community Engagement Coordinator for Camp Patriot Vania Elliot echoed Nick’s comment. “There are so many animals with no chance of adoption, living in a 5x5 kennel, which may be numbered depending on the shelter. Many people express interest in animal welfare but don’t actively support the organizations equipped to provide assistance.”
A LIFE BUILT AROUND RESCUE
Alongside their rescue work, Tara is building her “American Shopping Club” business, while Nick balances investing with a W-2 job at Spectrum Internet. “Animals have always been at the center of our lives,” Nick said. “Though most of the work is funded out of our own pockets.”
Vania admires their commitment: “Nick and Tara are proof that ordinary people
Camp Patriot Standing Firm for the Forgotten
by CAROLYN SHORE PETERSON
can do extraordinary things when they’re willing to sacrifice for animals who can’t speak for themselves. They keep showing up even when the support isn’t there.”
• Food Supply Solution: After Hurricane Helene, Camp Patriot distributed tens of thousands of pounds of ASPCA-provided food to more than 25 shelters. They aim to continue beyond disaster relief.
• Purposeful Paws: Training large breeds for service and municipal work. “Daisy and Ruger, who were once on the euthanasia list, are now thriving, after being trained,” Nick said.
• Matching Dogs with Humans: Focusing on animals considered “less desirable.” With 5.8 million cats and dogs entering shelters in 2024 and more than 600,000 euthanized, the need is urgent.
“Every dream collides with the reality of apathy –people love the idea of rescue, but few show up with time or support,” Nick commented.
Vania added, “Programs like these could save thousands of lives, but they only work if the community invests. Even five or 10 dollars a month or a few hours of volunteering can make a real difference.”
STORIES OF REDEMPTION
Camp Patriot has become a lifeline for animals with nowhere else to go. Nick recalled taking in Mia and Max, a bonded pair of Cane Corsos, whose owner was in hospice care. “It granted him peace knowing his babies would be cared for,” Nick said.
Another case involved Dave, a Great Pyrenees left homeless when his owner died suddenly. No local rescue would take him; animal control planned to euthanize. Instead, Camp Patriot gave him a second chance.
Vania reflected on cases like these and said, “For the animals, Camp Patriot is often the last hope. Without a place like this, they would have no chance at all.”
THE VOLUNTEER AND FUNDING GAP
A typical day involves feeding, cleaning, rotating dogs for exercise and offering love. But, finding steady volunteers remains difficult. “People will visit for photos, but few want to do the hard work,” stated Nick.
The sanctuary spends more than $3,000 a month on food alone, with constant veterinary bills. Most expenses are self funded. “That’s the cruel irony. Programs to help often require $100,000 in charitable giving before you can even qualify. Small rescues get shut out of fundraising,” Nick said.
Vania put it bluntly: “We lose more rescues every year to burnout and financial strain. If communities don’t step in, these safe havens disappear, and the animals pay the price.”
GLIMPSES OF HOPE
Not all stories are heavy. Two Great Pyrenees mixes, Rusty and Chrome, once withdrawn and anxious, now wag their tails freely. “These are the success stories that keep us going. Seeing an animal regain trust, love and joy after neglect is powerful,” Nick stated.
HOW TO HELP
For Camp Patriot, sustainability hinges on consistent community support. “The best way people can help is through small, recurring donations at GiveSendGo. com/CPRescue. If even a fraction of people gave $5 a month, we could thrive,” commented Nick.
“Individuals who are passionate about animals can contribute in many ways –donating, volunteering or raising awareness online. Rescue work is possible when communities come together,” Vania said.
At its core, Camp Patriot is about standing firm for the forgotten. “Being able to rescue is never a challenge…it’s a blessing. The challenge is people. But, we’ll keep showing up for the animals, no matter what,” Nick said.
by TARYN JEREZ
A monthly column that keeps its finger on the pulse of Forsyth’s artists and their inspiring stories!
sweetpdesignllc.com @sweetpdesignllc.com
Pam Saunders
Nic See Mixed Media Sculpture Artist @seenicfx
Todd Transou Oil Painter
@etransouart
Join us this month to celebrate each of the talented local artists we’re proud to have featured in 2025. Each of these creators shared their artistic journey with us while providing authentic views behind the curtain of the creativity and passion they each bring to our community.
The arts play such a crucial role in our community and our daily lives –we hope you remember how important your support is to every local artist! We invite you to revisit each of the below creators and consider following their accounts on social media and giving their websites and online shops a visit.
We hope you’ll agree that local art makes for a meaningful holiday gift!
Serenity Floyd Polymer Clay Artist happytines.com @happytines
Dr. Nancy Scherich Math-Dancer
nancyscherich.com
YouTube: @nancyscherich7940
Caitlin Baumberger Illustrator & Designer
Laura Morales Watercolor & Acrylic Painter
lauramoralesstudios.com @laura.morales.studio
If you or someone you know is a local artist in Forsyth County and would like to be one of our 2026 Art Beat of Forsyth Woman featured artists, we invite you to email: brooke@forsythmags.com.
Pamela Saunders
Watercolor & Acrylic Artist
@smosseller
Sarah Mosseller
Snow Days
Snow Days
By Elizabeth Mathis
By Elizabeth Mathis
The world is muffled by the gentle murmur of falling snow. Children, lost in the enchantment of snowmen and adventure, tirelessly play as if they had but a moment to seize the day. Adults, undoubtedly distracted by memories of snow days past, go about their required activities with an heir of nostalgic longing. Because, for those who have lived many winters and seen many a snowflake, we know what comes at the end of the day of work or play. Home.
The world is muffled by the gentle murmur of falling snow. Children, lost in the enchantment of snowmen and adventure, tirelessly play as if they had but a moment to seize the day. Adults, undoubtedly distracted by memories of snow days past, go about their required activities with an heir of nostalgic longing. Because, for those who have lived many winters and seen many a snowflake, we know what comes at the end of the day of work or play. Home.
That feeling when you open the front door and leave the frosty world behind as you enter a place that remembers you, and knows your name. Where peace and comfort reach out for a warm embrace. Whether your day was filled with play or toil, home is the haven to which we all want to escape after a long day of trudging through the snow of life. For our Members, Homestead Hills, a 55+ retirement community, is that home.
That feeling when you open the front door and leave the frosty world behind as you enter a place that remembers you, and knows your name. Where peace and comfort reach out for a warm embrace. Whether your day was filled with play or toil, home is the haven to which we all want to escape after a long day of trudging through the snow of life. For our Members, Homestead Hills, a 55+ retirement community, is that home.
At our community, home is the knowing that you are known and greatly valued. It’s being missed when you arrive a few minutes late to the gathering and the uproar of joy that greets you when you walk through the door. Your friends, old and new, have been waiting to tell you the day’s news, and they’ve saved you a seat.
At our community, home is the knowing that you are known and greatly valued. It’s being missed when you arrive a few minutes late to the gathering and the uproar of joy that greets you when you walk through the door. Your friends, old and new, have been waiting to tell you the day’s news, and they’ve saved you a seat.
It’s the smell of something delicious being baked just for you by your dedicated dining team. The impressive dining room is filled with pungent notes of cinnamon, cloves, and brown sugar. Could it be the childhood apple crumble you confided to the Executive Chef? Most likely.
It’s the smell of something delicious being baked just for you by your dedicated dining team. The impressive dining room is filled with pungent notes of cinnamon, cloves, and brown sugar. Could it be the childhood apple crumble you confided to the Executive Chef? Most likely.
Home comes to life in the laughter dancing through the halls from the wellness center as the Members boogie through to the end of the class. The Wellness Director, who carefully crafts a monthly wellness calendar with Members of all fitness levels in mind, cheerfully calls out encouragement.
Home comes to life in the laughter dancing through the halls from the wellness center as the Members boogie through to the end of the class. The Wellness Director, who carefully crafts a monthly wellness calendar with Members of all fitness levels in mind, cheerfully calls out encouragement.
Home is in the quiet of the evening at your cottage or villa, when you breathe a sigh of satisfaction, sinking into your favorite chair, a warm mug pressed in your hand as the day’s last rays wave goodbye.
Home is in the quiet of the evening at your cottage or villa, when you breathe a sigh of satisfaction, sinking into your favorite chair, a warm mug pressed in your hand as the day’s last rays wave goodbye.
Home is all these things, and more.
Home is all these things, and more.
Nestled near the heart of Winston Salem, North Carolina, Homestead Hills thrives not only on snow days, but all year round; welcoming people near and far to come and enjoy the comforts of home. As a 55+ community equipped with a full array of care services, our Members rest in the assurance that though their needs may change, the comforts of home never will.
Nestled near the heart of Winston Salem, North Carolina, Homestead Hills thrives not only on snow days, but all year round; welcoming people near and far to come and enjoy the comforts of home. As a 55+ community equipped with a full array of care services, our Members rest in the assurance that though their needs may change, the comforts of home never will.
What waits for you at the end of your snow day? Whatever your days look like, whether you’ve been tending to routine chores or crafting an exquisite snowman, we can all agree that opening the door to a place of safety and warmth, where the icicles of the day melt away, is a place where we would all like to hang our hat and mittens.
What waits for you at the end of your snow day? Whatever your days look like, whether you’ve been tending to routine chores or crafting an exquisite snowman, we can all agree that opening the door to a place of safety and warmth, where the icicles of the day melt away, is a place where we would all like to hang our hat and mittens.
Your Lifestyle Advisors are ready to answer any questions you may have about life at Homestead Hills. Call (336) 770-2024 to start the conversation. We look forward to speaking with you and welcoming you home!
Your Lifestyle Advisors are ready to answer any questions you may have about life at Homestead Hills. Call (336) 770-2024 to start the conversation. We look forward to speaking with you and welcoming you home!
Homestead-Hills.com for more information.
WHEN CRISIS COMES, COMMUNITY RISES - And
Our Neighbors Need Us Now
by ERIC A. AFT, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER SECOND HARVEST FOOD BANK OF NORTHWEST NC
At Second Harvest Food Bank, we see trends before they hit the headlines. We hear it in the voices of parents calling for the first time, feeling anxious and unsure. We see it in email messages from our emergency food assistance network members and school social workers preparing for rising need.
And we are feeling it again now, weeks into a federal shutdown and at a time when many families were already stretched thin.
Across Forsyth and the 17 other counties we serve, requests for food assistance have more than doubled since 2022. Families are struggling under the weight of the rising cost of living and rebuilding after Hurricane Helene. Now, delays and uncertainty around essential nutrition programs like SNAP and WIC are pushing many past the breaking point — including parents of newborns, older adults, and working families who have always managed to get by… until now.
For families with stable income and stocked pantries, shutdowns may feel abstract.
But for many of our neighbors, even a short disruption in support can mean empty fridges, missed bills, impossible choices. One neighbor, a retired teaching assistant in her 70s, called recently — her voice trembling — sharing that she never imagined needing help. She simply couldn’t make rising grocery costs fit her fixed income any longer.
As a community, we have been here before. We know how to show up for one another. And we are already moving with urgency — increasing food purchases, supporting child and senior meal programs, and preparing to meet an expected surge in requests for help.
but we cannot do it alone.
Food banks are powerful connectors, but we are not a replacement for strong, stable public nutrition programs. When those programs stall, families feel it first — and community resources must stretch even further.
This moment calls for all of us.
If you are able, please stand with families in Northwest North Carolina. Visit SecondHarvestNWNC.org to:
• Give what you can — every dollar provides nourishing food through our network.
• Volunteer your time — sorting food or preparing meals makes a real difference.
• Organize a virtual food drive alongside your faith community, workplace, or civic group.
• Use your voice — call on leaders to protect nutrition programs and ensure stability for families.
When challenges arise, our community does what it always has: we show up, together. That spirit is our strength — and it’s how we will ensure every family has the food they need.
Need help? Want to get involved? Visit SecondHarvestNWNC.org
Everyone deserves to eat. Everyone belongs at the table. And together, we’ll make sure they do.
A Living Room Dressed in Christmas Magic
The holiday season is the perfect time to transform your living room into a cozy, festive retreat that captures the magic of Christmas. Start by choosing a color palette that sets the tone – classic red and green for a traditional feel or soft golds and whites for a more modern touch. Add warmth and texture with chunky knit blankets, faux fur throws and plenty of plush pillows. A twinkling string of fairy lights or a glowing garland on the mantel can instantly make the room feel inviting, even before the tree goes up.
Your Christmas tree is the heart of your holiday décor, so make it shine. Whether you prefer a real evergreen or a perfectly shaped artificial one, choose ornaments that reflect your personality and memories – handmade pieces, heirlooms or a new color theme for the year. Balance the tree by layering textures – glass ornaments, wooden accents and pops of ribbon or dried orange slices for a natural touch. Don’t forget the finishing touches like a tree skirt or woven basket base and a statement topper that draws the eye.
To complete the look, bring festive touches throughout the rest of the room. Add a wreath or garland over mirrors, shelves or doorways for a cohesive look. Scented candles with notes of pine, cinnamon or vanilla will make the space feel even more inviting. And, if you have a fireplace, hang stockings and decorate the mantel with a few metallic accents for some sparkle. With just a few thoughtful details, your living room can become the place for relaxing, entertaining and making memories all season long.
If you’re ready to bring that same warmth and timeless style to your home, we’d love to help you make it happen. Visit our portfolio at junedelugasinteriors.com under “Design Projects” to see how we’ve created cohesive and timeless spaces over the past decade. The first step is picking up the phone and reaching out to our design team who will serve as your designer and licensed general contractor. We look forward to discussing your dream design with you.
Merry Christmas from the June DeLugas Interiors design staff!
Transforming Spaces to Extraordinary!
PHOTO BY JAY SINCLAIR
PHOTO BY JAY SINCLAIR
You Can Only Be You: Building Confidence and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
by JOY NELSON THOMAS
“Confidence isn’t about having all the answers, it’s about trusting that who you are is already enough.”
~ Joy Nelson Thomas
For most of my life, I’ve tried to balance two truths – wanting to grow into the best version of myself, and learning to be okay with exactly who I already am. That’s where confidence really begins, when we stop trying to be someone else and learn to fully show up as ourselves.
But, if we’re honest, that’s easier said than done. Imposter syndrome has a way of showing up just when we’re stepping into new opportunities or rooms that challenge us. It whispers things like, “You don’t belong here” or “You’re not ready.”
I’ve been there many times.
The truth is that confidence isn’t about never doubting yourself. It’s about choosing to keep showing up anyway. It’s about remembering that the version of you standing here today has earned her place.
BUILDING CONFIDENCE THAT LASTS
1. Stop comparing your journey. Someone else’s pace, platform or path has nothing to do with yours. Your story unfolds exactly the way it’s meant to, and it’s beautiful in its own timing.
2. Celebrate your growth. Confidence grows from steady, small victories – not from a single major event. Every time you speak up, take a risk or learn from a mistake, you’re building strength.
3. Speak kindly to yourself. If you wouldn’t say it to a friend, don’t say it to yourself. The words you use with yourself matter.
4. Surround yourself with people who remind you who you are. Confidence grows in community. We all need those people who see the best in us when we can’t see it ourselves.
The more I lead, the more I realize you can only be you. And, that’s not just enough, it’s the whole point.
You were designed to bring something to the table that no one else can. So, the next time that little voice of doubt tries to make you shrink, remind yourself – you belong here. You’ve worked for this. You are becoming everything you’re meant to be.
Keep showing up.
Keep being you.
Because the world needs exactly that.
CALL TO ACTION
Take this as your reminder to stand tall in who you are. Reflect on the spaces where you’ve been playing small and step forward with courage. Your confidence doesn’t have to be loud or powerful. Let your authenticity lead, and watch how it inspires others to do the same.
Until next time. Enjoy the journey! Be who God designed you to be.
Most of our homes don’t read as museums, and we wouldn’t want them to. My own is a bit of Paris apartment verve colliding with English country house warmth. My home and Lynda’s are about one thing – sanctuary. As I sat with that concept a bit, I realized that most of the women in my innermost circle are sanctuarians. Okay, well apparently, there is no such word, but the root word, sanctuary, refers to a refuge, shelter or haven – a place for keeping sacred things, a shrine. Each of us has created just that, taking the concept of home to a deeper level. The sanctuary home of my bestie in Arizona has an utterly unique vibe – combining her love for glamour with a deep reverence for her adopted southwestern roots. Cocooned in her space, I am embraced by who she is at her core because what I experience is utterly authentic.
Home as sanctuary isn’t about: spending a fortune; following a formula; caring about what other people think; or creating something overtly “religious.”
Instead, it’s about cultivating your personal space in a way that grounds your being and supports your spirit, and that starts with tapping into what refuge, haven and shrine mean to you. The beauty in this way of thinking is that your sanctuary evolves with you. Case in point, for the past few years, I’ve welcomed the return of the hummingbirds with a small, plastic hummingbird feeder. It was, you know, fine. But, when I realized how much joy those whimsical little creatures brought to my outdoor space, I decided an upgrade
Sanctuary WOMEN
by JEAN MARIE JOHNSON
“Is this a museum, Aunt Lynda?”
“Well, not exactly. It’s my house.”
“You live here? Cool….”
That sweet girl – a New York city child who mistook my friend’s home for a museum – was on to something. Her Grand Aunt’s tiny Victorian home in a small, sleepy Massachusetts town is anything but typical. Layered in the aesthetics of the 19th century, it feels out of time in the best way. But, it is not a museum. It’s Lynda’s world, culled from her sensibilities, taste and style. Complete, I might add, with an antique chamber pot which I swear I’ve never used!
was in order. Now a jewel-like, spherical, red glass feeder welcomes them to our shared sanctuary while grounding me in reverent observation.
Your sanctuary home may hold your story. it may also tell it.
Curious about being or being more of a sanctuary woman, about forging a fresh relationship with the place that holds you in this world? Here are a few thoughts to get you started:
• Create clarity by creating space. Yes, it’s another way of saying declutter! Choose a method from the many you can find online or just trust your gut and begin anywhere. Trust me, it’s worth it.
• Think in terms of the feelings you’d like to experience in your sanctuary. Perhaps it’s joy, tranquility, serendipity, balance, immersion, inspiration, creative energy. You decide.
• Identify what you’d like to include or highlight in your space. Maybe it’s a spot for yoga or a prominent way to display your treasured books. Maybe it’s featuring the artwork you’ve collected for years but never quite
got around to placing just so. Some sanctuary women have included homages or “shrines” to loved ones who have passed. Mine is a quiet, Asian jewelry box that contains mementos from or about people who I will love forever. My bestie has a shadow box of personal items that belonged to her mother.
• Consider your senses. What would you like to see, smell, touch, hear? Maybe even taste? I recently invested in my first set of bamboo sheets in a cool, calming, eucalyptus shade – oh, the joy! And, on a still-toowarm autumn day, I turn down the blinds and ask Siri to find me some afternoon jazz. You see? That’s sanctuary building!
I imagine that the small girl who was mesmerized by her aunt’s “museum” will one day create her own bespoke sanctuary. In fact, I’d bet on it.
We spend our lives grappling with authenticity. home is the perfect place to experiment with how to embrace and express it.
PRESS PLAY ON LOCAL
Two Podcasts, One City: Forsyth Mags x Twin City Talk Unite for Local Stories
Forsyth Mags and Twin City Talk partnered up this summer to record three collaboration episodes of their podcasts. If you love hearing about all things local, then this podcast series is for you!
Both podcasts are rooted in sharing about all things local and supporting our small businesses and entrepreneurs. This is the collaboration you didn’t know you wanted!
Forsyth Mags Publisher and Podcast
Host Brooke Culler and Twin City Talk Co-Hosts Suzy Fielders and Burgess Jenkins sat down with Tim Beeman who produces both of their podcasts. We talked about everything from what we love about Forsyth County to the most challenging part of being a podcast host.
by SUZY FIELDERS
EPISODE 1 – WHAT IT’S LIKE TO BE A PODCAST HOST
Episode 1 shares all about podcast hosting from the challenges to some of our most memorable episodes. We share insight into the podcasting world and plenty of laughs. It’s been a journey we’ve all loved, and it was so much fun to share that with our audiences.
EPISODE 2 – ALL THINGS FORSYTH COUNTY
Episode 2 shares all about Winston-Salem & Forsyth County. We share all about this place we call home. From our favorite parks to restaurants, we share these destinations we adore. Plus, we share what we would love to see come to Forsyth County.
EPISODE 3 – ABOUT OUR PRODUCER, THE PODFATHER
For our third and final episode, we discuss Tim Beeman’s legendary status as The Podfather, the more than 5,000 podcast episodes he’s produced, how he got started in this business and more! You’ll
even find out about where the term “podcast” came from.
WHERE CAN YOU TUNE IN?
All three episodes are now live! You can listen to them on Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, Pandora, Audible or your favorite podcast station. Plus, they are also available to watch on YouTube on either channel @forsythmags or @twincitytalk.
For more information and updates about the latest episodes on Forsyth Magazine’s Podcast – follow @forsythmags on Instagram and Facebook.
For more information and updates about the latest episodes on Twin City Talk’s Podcast – follow @twincitytalk on Instagram and Facebook.
JODIE
Faith in Action: Raising Children Who Live to Serve
by MARTIE EMORY
For Emily and Keith Davis, owners of Fleet Feet in both Winston-Salem and Clemmons, caring for others has always been the heartbeat of their business.
Outfitting those in need around the community with well-fitting shoes was just the start to their good works –which has evolved into their worldwide reaching charity, appropriately named Good Works Engine.
While answering God’s call to serve others and inviting their Winston-Salem community to join in helping underserved populations both locally and globally, Emily and Keith have also witnessed their mission shaping the lives of their three daughters – Addison (18), Hope (16) and Samantha (10).
As the family has balanced owning a business and building community, their faith – strengthened at home on a daily basis – is the constant in every single endeavor.
“In all the projects our family has been involved in, we could never have imagined what God had planned,” shares oldest daughter Addison. “I am continually inspired by how God is working in ways we cannot see or understand. Through my parents, I have learned that committing your life to Christ-like service takes trust and sacrifice, but the goodness of His plan is beyond our imagination.”
Early on during Emily and Keith’s ongoing missions in Kenya, Addison accompanied her dad there when she was in first grade.
“I clearly remember a drastic change in how I understood the world. I met kids my age who were addicted to sniffing glue to forget the pain of hunger, and I played with kids who had lived on the streets since they were toddlers. Coming home, I understood there was so much more to the world than the life I knew. On that trip, I fell in love with the country and people of Kenya – who have shaped who I am today.”
A more recent favorite moment for Addison came while enjoying NOMAD Farms International Week, hosting recently placed refugee families. “We had the opportunity to fit 60 kids and their parents for new shoes,” she shares. “It was the most joyful day with families from nations around the world enjoying each other’s company.”
Daughter Hope also recalls noticing the major differences between children’s lives in Kenya and her own life here in Winston-Salem. “They all work so hard just to get the simple things they have,” she adds.
And, there is so much work to be done!
“We leave for Kenya as a family in late December and will be working with students at the running academy, as well as local village ministry,” shares Emily. “Since we were in Kenya last year, we helped coordinate building three new mud homes in the local slum and a new community toilet. On this trip, Keith will be taking Samantha on her first safari, while Addison, Hope and I have opted for visiting the large slum, Kibera, in Nairobi. That means visiting families and playing soccer with the boys’ groups there – coordinated groups that aim to keep teenage boys out of gangs. As a mom, I love that my girls would rather love on kids in the slum than take another safari!”
Emily and Keith also organize mission trips for first-time visitors to Kenya, have provided resources to build three churches there and work with Transcend Talent Academy, the running academy in Cherangany, Kenya founded by Boston Marathon Champion Wesley Korir. The academy provides a high-level high school education and run training to Kenya’s most talented student athletes. In 2021, Emily and Keith partnered with Wesley to build a school for the academy.
"Coming home, I understood there was so much more to the world than the life I knew. On that trip, I fell in love with the country and people of Kenya – who have shaped who I am today.” - Addison Davis
On the local front, shoe fittings for the Winston-Salem community have always been a source of joy for all three girls. “I love our shoe fittings with little kids and seeing how excited they are for shoes in fun colors!” shares Hope. “A lot of the kids have never had a new pair of shoes before. They are so happy!”
Samantha also loves giving young kids the excitement of new shoes that encourage them to run and play. “At shoe fittings, I love seeing their happy faces – and then I love racing with them!” she says. Yes, running is very much a family affair, and this past summer, Hope and Addison were thrilled to run a half marathon with their mom. “It was such a special experience, as running is something Addison and I love doing together,” adds Hope. “Right now, we’re training for the Mistletoe Half, and we’re planning to run the Chicago Marathon next year to benefit Transcend Talent Academy. It’s been such an awesome way to push each other, and we have made so many memories through the sport!”
Very much a family passion, Samantha also won the 9-10 age group for the NC Junior Triathlon series. But, no matter their busy schedules, there’s always time for thinking about the many lifelong friends they’ve made in Kenya.
“I’m planning to have a hot cocoa stand soon to raise money for the kids in Kenya,” says Samantha. “I’ll use that money to buy things for them at the store, and I know the first things they will ask for are bread and milk.”
Also during December, Good Works Engine will be fitting kids at the annual “In the Name of the Father” event at the Forsyth Correctional Center, where they fit the children of incarcerated men with new shoes and also sponsor an annual 5K. Learn about their newest charitable venture –bingwacoffee.com – where they will be importing coffee and starting a coffee co-op in Kenya to help poor rural farmers.
The Davis family joyfully invites you to join their efforts both locally and worldwide. Contribute to Good Works Engine by selecting the donate button under “community” on their website (fleetfeetws.com), by visiting goodworksengine. org or by emailing emily@fleetfeetws.com. Good Works Engine always seeks volunteers to help around the local community – sign up on fleetfeetws.com.
Fleet Feet Winston-Salem is located at 278 Harvey Street in Hanestowne Village Shopping Center, 336.722.8477 and at 6339 Jessie Lane in Clemmons, 336.293.8660. Hours are Monday through Friday 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. and Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram @Fleetfeetws to learn more about their fit process and to be inspired!
Many 33-year-old women have husbands, children and/or career-related passions that give them a sense of identity.
When wrapped up in parenting or throwing oneself into a stressful, all-consuming career, there is little time to worry about yourself – which, more often than not, I think is relatively healthy. Being busy leaves less time for ruminating about first world problems, dwelling on the past and watching life pass you by without feeling like an active participant.
I, on the other hand, fit none of those categories. I work multiple jobs, which keeps me occupied and allows me to support myself, but I’ve never seen myself as a “career woman.” I have no children, no semblance of a romantic relationship to even turn into marriage anytime soon and still have a miniature heart attack each time I remember I am indeed 33 and not 25. I feel 25. My college-aged coworkers invite me to hang out with them and talk to me as if I am one of their peers. I stay up to date on social media trends, apparently look “young” enough for people I meet to constantly feel
Aging Out
Where Do I Fit In?
by AM Y HILL
comfortable tactlessly asking my age and I still have many of the same interests I did in my 20s. So, what exactly am I doing and how much longer is this going to last?
Women don‘t speak up enough about the crushing societal pressure that others in my position feel in their 30s. In fact, I had a moment of denial just the other day when I had to pull over while driving and ask ChatGPT to calculate what age I was turning next year because my brain tried to convince me I was actually still 32 for my sanity.
Feeling stuck between young adulthood and middle-aged adulthood isn’t the worst purgatory, but the daily mental gymnastics my brain undergoes to remind myself not to get too comfortable and to not present myself as someone who has forgotten that they are no longer 21 gets tiring. At what point do I ditch the ripped jeans and bodysuits and start shopping exclusively at L.L.Bean? If I decide to cut my hair short now, will I ever be able to grow it long again before I start to go gray? When am I going to wake up one morning and have significant wrinkles? When do I have to start worrying about my cholesterol? Cancer is becoming more of a tangible
concern at this age. On what day will I suddenly become invisible to men on the street? Has this already happened and I’m (yet again) in denial? Am I just exceptionally immature or emotionally stunted for my age, or is how I feel completely normal?
A lot of my concerns seem vain, and it’s because they are. In my defense, I’m not vain in an “I think I’m as beautiful as Megan Fox” kind of way – in fact, it’s quite the opposite. Sadly, we live in a society and social media age where looks matter more than we’d like to admit. As someone who’s biggest priority in life is falling in love, anxiously awaiting the day my skin no longer looks youthful and dewy feels like I’m rotting away on death row (dramatic, I know). I realized recently that I had internalized this pressure to maintain my youth to the extent that I wasn’t even offended when a passerby kindly informed me that a man was secretly (and creepily) filming me on the sidewalk while I was washing the front windows of the restaurant where I work. I wasn’t offended – instead, I was deeply flattered. My first thought, while comical, was sadly, enjoy this while it lasts, while the passerby’s reaction to the man filming me was rightful disgust and concern. Where did I pick up these harmful
subconscious beliefs about my value? How do I debunk them as soon as possible and learn to separate my value from my ability (or lack thereof) to attract a mate who doesn’t belong in prison?
Vanity aside, pondering mortality can be humbling, and your 30s are when you begin to truly realize that you don’t have endless time. Health is not to be taken for granted, nor are quality relationships. If you’re someone who truly desires children and starting a family, it’s time to devote your actions to finding a suitable partner. If your goal is financial stability and success, now is the time to make big career moves and take your 401K more seriously. Do I want to spend this $12 on yet another glass of wine that is going to dehydrate my skin and add toxins to my aging body in a bar on a Saturday night where I’m not going to find the love of my life, or do I want to save this $12 for a coffee before a wholesome church service on Sunday morning? In my experience, my 30s have been a psychological kick-in-the-rear thus far. However, sometimes being shaken up is just the remedy to stagnation. Maybe I’m closer to a breakthrough than my anxiety thinks.
“JUST SAY NO!” “JUST SAY NO!”
by RENEE SKUDRA
Saying “no” is an essential aspect of establishing and maintaining healthy boundaries in one’s personal and professional life. But, learning to say “no” is not an easy feat for many people – myself included. I have struggled with this issue virtually my whole life and generally capitulated to whatever forces wanted to have their way with me. I have given people money (who often had flimsy excuses and ultimately never paid me back), babysat five non-stop screaming children because their parent “couldn’t cope anymore,” been convinced by a 6’5” male roommate (who I was afraid of disappointing) to take care of his pet ferret whose looks and demeanor terrified me and even consented to being a depressed psychiatrist’s girlfriend (this, to someone I had no attraction to) because he confessed that he couldn’t bear to be alone anymore. The inability to say “no” got me into a multitude of pickles, but the indomitable fear of not going along with whatever game I was presented with was infinitely worse and a horrific stab wound to my psyche.
In the past year, I have thought about being what a blunt friend calls “a pushover,” realized that is an accurate characterization and decided to put my situation to rights.
I started by looking at the psychological literature which analyzed the “fear of saying no” phenomenon and realized that I have a lot of company out there with the same problem. I learned that the fear of saying “no” often stems from concerns about disappointing others, being negatively judged or damaging relationships. Saying “no” can feel painful because it triggers feelings of guilt or anxiety about potentially letting others down or simply feeling selfish. Fear propels us into agreement, preferring harmony over confrontation. In my own case, I knew that I was often prioritizing peacekeeping over honoring my own needs. By opting for the path of least resistance, I was maintaining harmony and the other person’s goodwill. In the meantime, however, each unwilling concession was chipping away at my own autonomy and self respect.
I have come to see that, without clearly defined boundaries, one inadvertently opens the floodgates to incessant demands and expectations which leave us vulnerable to manipulation and exploitation. We say “yes” to any number of situations because:
Fear of conflict: We choose peacekeeping over honoring our own needs;
We are afraid of being perceived as selfish or fearing the repercussions of disappointing others;
Guilt or shame – We fear judgment and rejection and worry that a refusal to consent to a proposition might lead to abandonment or ostracization;
Social pressure. When a neighbor unrelentingly insisted that I purchase Girl Scout Cookies (which I don’t even like) from her daughter, I went ahead and bought several boxes. I never told her that I donated several bags of groceries AND the cookies to a local food pantry. I just couldn’t say “no” to her without feeling like a jerk.
Low self-esteem. We believe unfortunately that our value hinges on our ability to meet the needs of others. We say “yes” to gain approval and thereby affirm our own worthiness – even at the expense of our own well being.
Over time, I have gained some understanding about why I have inevitably had trouble saying “no.” I have finally transitioned to the next step – why everyone (including me) MUST learn to say “no,” despite the fact that it is rough and tough and not designed to make you popular. Here are my takeaways:
Learning to say “no” isn’t merely a skill – it is an act of self preservation and empowerment. It is a responsibility that we owe ourselves so that we can pave a path towards a life governed by authenticity, intentionality and personal freedom.
Set your boundaries. As P. Muris said in a 2023 article, “Psychology, Research and Behavior Management”: “If we constantly say ‘yes’ to others at the expense of our own needs, we signal to ourselves and the world that our time, energy and well being are expendable commodities.”
By saying “no,” we reduce unnecessary stress and reclaim agency over our lives, model healthy boundaries and tell the world that OUR needs matter.
In my newly constituted life, I practice self care – unremittingly. I now regularly practice saying “no” when I truly do not want to or am unable to lend my assistance to an individual. I suggest alternative solutions when declining a request, offer empathy and do help if I can. The words of Mahatma Gandhi provide solace to me: “A ‘no’ uttered from the deepest conviction is better than a ‘yes’ uttered merely to please – or worse – to avoid trouble.” This has been my transformative journey, and I recommend it as a path to a more self loving and self respecting life. 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3
Hustle Heart
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.
ANOTHER YEAR OF MAKING MOVES THAT MATTER IN YOUR BRAND:
Top 10 Tips from 2025
This year, we talked about close to a dozen different ways to dive in and magnify the magic of your brand! I’ve rounded up the top tips from 2025 to give you a quick glance back as you make moves for your business to succeed in the new year!
MOVEMENT MESSAGING MATTERS
A beautiful brand is nice, but a movement brand is magnetic! Your message should stand for something bold and invite your audience to believe in it, too. The stronger your “we believe” statements, the stronger your chance at loyal customers and long time fans.
SIMPLIFY TO STAY CONSISTENT
Stop overthinking your email strategy. Create a rinse-and-repeat template, reuse your best content and show up consistently. Your subscribers want connection, not perfection. When you overthink it, you’re getting in your own way and leaving money on the table!
PIN WITH PURPOSE
Those three little pinned posts on Instagram can make or break your first impression. Choose posts that introduce who you help, what you offer, how you do it differently and proof that it works. This is your time to shine!
CLARITY CONVERTS
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Forget clever copy; clear messaging wins every time. When your audience instantly understands who you help and how you do it, your “add to cart” moments multiply! Add your personality, but stay crystal clear.
STEP INTO THE ROOM
Live events are one of the most underrated lead generators. Get intentional about which rooms you’re in, how you show up and how you follow up. Connection beats algorithms every time!
LEAD WITH VALUE
Providing value doesn’t mean being the internet’s expert on everything – it means being the go-to for your people. Show up with content that solves, supports and strengthens relationships, and you’ll be the person your ideal customer thinks of first when they need you!
CONNECTION OVER COLD PITCHING
DMs don’t have to be cringey! Focus on genuine connection – why you’re reaching out, what you offer and why it’s the right fit for them. The right conversations lead to sold out seasons and aligned clients!
KEEP EMAIL HUMAN
Your email list isn’t just an audience, it’s an inner circle. Write like you’re talking to one person, not a crowd. When your messages feel like a conversation, your readers stick around.
MESSAGING + PRICING = YOUR POWER COUPLE
Your pricing tells a story, but your messaging sets the stage. Don’t have champagne prices if your messaging sounds like a Diet Coke. Align the two, so your audience understands your value before they ever see your rates.
10
REBOOT YOUR NARRATIVE
Your messaging evolves as you do. Revisit it each year to make sure it still reflects your vision, values and ideal clients. Fresh clarity keeps your content and conversions aligned.
Hustle & Heart Challenge
As you look forward to what 2026 will look like, don’t forget that you can embrace your own “hustle” while remembering that busyness doesn’t equal success! This year, as you set your goals, normalize prioritizing balance, confidence, collaboration and sustainable growth over burnout and the pressure to outearn the competition! You and your business deserve to feel good in 2026!
2025 HOLIDAY GUIDE gift
tis the season to shop local
The holidays are here, and if you’re still checking names off your gift list, there’s no better time to shop local. Supporting small businesses keeps our community thriving and ensures your gifts are as meaningful as they are unique. Discover this season’s favorite finds from some of our go-to local shops!
WINDSOR JEWELERS
526 S. Stratford Road
Winston-Salem, NC 27103 windsor-jewelers.com
DROP EARRINGS
Now at Windsor Jewelers, Sloane Street Jewelry brings together vibrant natural gemstones and classic fine jewelry to create timeless, modern elegance. These 18K yellow gold drop earrings,— featuring emerald-cut white topaz framed by turquoise and diamonds— are a stunning example of the artistry behind this captivating mother-anddaughter brand. Celebrate the season by treating yourself or someone special to their luminous beauty. Available this holiday season at Windsor Jewelers. Visit windsor-jewelers.com or in store at 526 S Stratford Road in Winston-Salem.
2026 WOMEN ON THE MOVE CONFERENCE
TICKET
Give the Gift of Inspiration! Treat the inspiring women in your life to a ticket to Women on the Move 2026 — the ultimate day of connection, empowerment, and motivation. Seats are limited, so grab her gift early! Scan the QR code to grab your ticket!
301 Brookstown Avenue, Suite 500 Winston-Salem, NC 27101 woodandthreadboutique.com
GIFT CARD
From timeless classics to effortless boho, Wood & Thread Boutique helps you style your closet, home, and life. This holiday season, give the gift of choice with a Wood & Thread gift card — available in-store at 301 Brookstown Ave., Suite 500 or online at woodandthreadboutique.com.
SUNLESS BODY STUDIOS
205 S. Stratford Road Winston-Salem, NC 27106 213 Eastchester Drive High Point, NC 27265 sunlessbody.com
GIFT CARD
Give the gift of a holiday bronze. Gift cards and Sunlessbody essentials are available in-studio or online at www.sunlessbody.com. Visit Sunless Body Studios in Winston-Salem or High Point!
This holiday season, treat someone special (or yourself!) to the ultimate escape. Enjoy a 30-minute Halotherapy session in our private Himalayan salt cave—breathe deeply, relax, and let the healing minerals restore balance and calm. The perfect gift of wellness and bliss—wrapped in pure relaxation at Aeracura Salon & Spa. $30 for 30 minutes. Visit Aeracura Salon or shop online at aeracurasalon.com. Gift certificates are always available!
RESTORATION MED SPA
250 Executive Park Blvd #105 Winston-Salem, NC 27103 restorationmedspa.com
GIFT CARD
GIVE THE GIFT OF CONFIDENCE & BEAUTY
A Restoration MedSpa Gift Card is more than a present — it’s an experience of self-care and renewal. From fillers, injectables and revitalizing facials to a variety of rejuvenating treatments, your loved one can choose exactly what makes them feel radiant, confident, and restored. Give the gift that inspires beauty from the inside out. Call 336-999-8295 or visit restorationmedspa.com to reserve yours today!
PICKLEPAL
The ultimate courtside gift! Meet PicklePal - the pickleball bag with a built-in chair! No more juggling bags and seats... just play, relax, and repeat. Shop now at picklepalusa.com.
SKI & TENNIS STATION
119 S Stratford Road Winston-Salem, NC 27104 skiandtennisstation.com
PATAGONIA DOWN SWEATER
Ski & Tennis Station is your one-stop shop and local destination for women’s winter clothing, offering styles to fit all ages and sizes. This classic Down Sweater provides the perfect warmth for just about everything. It is lightweight and windproof, and available in multiple colors, as well as men’s, women’s, and kids’ sizes, plus vest and hooded versions!
THE BLOSSOMIST
FLOWER WORKSHOP
Give the gift of fun and flowers this year! The Blossomist is a traveling flower design workshop company serving the Lake Norman, Charlotte, and Winston-Salem areas, offering both monthly public classes and private workshops where she comes to you—perfect for groups of seven or more. Purchase a gift card redeemable for any class at www.theblossomistnc.com and follow @theblossomistnc!
WINDSOR JEWELERS
526 S. Stratford Road
Winston-Salem, NC 27103 windsor-jewelers.com
ROCK CRYSTAL AMULET
Designer Temple St. Clair infuses the magic of Blue Moonstone into the brand’s iconic Rock Crystal Amulet. Each compass point is marked by a cabochon-cut Blue Moonstone, while a single tanzanite at the base adds an ethereal glow to the luminous rock crystal. A meaningful piece for those who cherish both symbolism and beauty, shown here on an 18K Classic Chain—available this holiday season at Windsor Jewelers. Visit windsor-jewelers.com or in store at 526 S Stratford Road in Winston-Salem.
Shine brighter this holiday season with a Vista gift card! Pamper your loved ones with facials, body treatments, and self-care they’ll truly enjoy. The perfect present for anyone who deserves to relax, recharge, and glow. To purchase a gift card or schedule an appointment, call us at 336-765-8620.
JOLO WINERY & VINEYARDS
219 Jolo Winery Lane Pilot Mountain, NC 27041
www.jolovineyards.com
WINE NOT WINE BASKET
Why wait for a special occasion when you can gift (or enjoy) a little indulgence “just because”? Perfect for corporate gifting, holiday surprises, thoughtful thank-yous, or any reason at all, our Wine Not Basket is a curated pairing of JOLO favorites and gourmet treats designed to impress for $99.
Scan the QR code to view our baskets.
COOPER SCURRY FACIAL PLASTIC SURGERY CENTER
855 Bethesda Rd SW
Winston-Salem, NC 27103
cooperscurrymd.com
GIFT CERTIFICATES
Share the gift of beauty and confidence with your loved ones! Enjoy our range of services from Dysport/ Botox and fillers with our Facial Plastic Surgeon to Radiofrequency Microneedling, facials, and chemical peels. Plus, explore our product lines including Jane Iredale, SkinCeuticals, and more. We have something for everyone. Pick up your gift certificate today! Call 336-747-3737 or email info@cooperscurrymd. com to schedule!
GRETCHEN’S KIDS BOUTIQUE
4916 Old Country Club Road Winston-Salem, NC 27104 gretchenskidsboutique.com
ANN LAUREN DOLLS REBA ROSE™ – THE FASHION-FORWARD 18” DOLL WITH A ROCKSTAR HEART
Meet Reba Rose, the stylish redhead with sparkling blue eyes and a love for music and animals. Standing 18 inches tall, this fun-loving doll isn’t just about fashion—she’s a guitar-strumming, pet-loving sweetheart who inspires creativity and kindness with every playtime adventure. And the fun doesn’t stop with Reba—discover more dolls in the collection, each with their own unique look and story! Made in Spain. Shop in store Monday-Friday 9am-5pm or online anytime at www.gretchenskidsboutique.com.
LEAD GIRLS OF NC
500 4th St NW Winston-Salem, NC 27101 leadgirls.org
DONATION
Give the gift of empowerment this holiday season! By donating to LEAD Girls of NC in someone’s honor, you’re helping unlock the full potential of girls at one of the most critical moments in their lives. LEAD Girls is building a future where girls become women who lead and are not only accepted but celebrated—transforming the landscape of leadership and the face of decision-makers in every community. This year, give the gift of dreams realized! Learn more at leadgirls.org.
PURE SWEAT SAUNA STUDIO
901 N Trade Street Winston-Salem, NC 27101 www.puresweatstudios.com/winston-salem-nc
GIFT CARD
GIFTS THAT GIVE BACK: Give the gift of detoxification and renewed energy with Infrared Sauna + Cold Plunge. Celebrate the season by giving the gift of Mind, Body + Spirit health to your loved ones and to yourself with a Free Holiday Session!
$100 Gift Card to Wellness + 1 Free Holiday Sauna Session
$200 Gift Card to Wellness + 1 Free Holiday Contrast Therapy Session
Call 336-705-4675, visit our website or scan the QR code to purchase your gift cards. Pure Sweat Sauna Studio Holiday Gift Cards
CHILDRESS VINEYARDS
1000 Childress Vineyards Road Lexington, NC 27295
WINE CLUB
The Fast Track Wine Club from Childress Vineyards is the perfect pairing of indulgence and exclusivity. With a one-year membership, your recipient will receive three thoughtfully curated shipments (three wines each) delivered in April, September, and December — 9 bottles in all — with all shipping and handling included. As a welcome bonus, each member is gifted a 1.5 L “join bottle,” and on renewals. Members enjoy 20% off wines, 10% off merchandise and bistro purchases, free shipping on orders over $200, and six complimentary tasting vouchers each year. With reserved seating at the winery, exclusive event access, and loyalty rewards, this isn’t just a wine club — it’s a year-long celebration. Treat someone special to a gift that pours joy all year long. Located at 1000 Childress Vineyards Rd, Lexington. Learn more at childressvineyards.com
WASHINGTON PARK CROSSFIT
2020 Hollyrood Street
Winston-Salem, NC 27127
washingtonparkcrossfit.com
GIFT CARD
Give the gift of FITNESS this holiday season! Whether they’re new to working out or a seasoned athlete, a 10 or 20 class pack at Washington Park CrossFit is perfect for anyone. Our workouts are suitable for all levels and ages—everything can be modified to meet your needs. Plus, take wellness to the next level with cold plunge and infrared sauna sessions, also available for purchase! Learn more at washingtonparkcrossfit.com or by emailing info@washingtonparkcrossfit.com.
HELP Fuels Team Effectiveness
by JEAN MARIE JOHNSON
If I asked, “How important is it for people to be helpful to one another at work?”
How would you respond?
Well, I have asked that question of many employees – people like you and me – and most quickly say: “Extremely, of course!” We know from our own lived experience that help from the people around us, in the many forms we receive it, is essential to our individual and team success.
HELP MAKES THE DIFFERENCE
Just ask McKinsey researcher Adam Grant who contends that, “The amount of help a group’s members give one another is among the strongest predictors of group effectiveness.” Consider that, after 9/11, a team of Harvard psychologists studied what makes intelligence units effective, concluding:
“The single strongest predictor of group effectiveness was the amount of help that analysts gave to each other.”
Certainly, the circumstances that engendered these findings were singular and extreme. And yet, the impact resonates with our own experience of working through complex problems and challenging customer situations. Psychologists Stella Anderson and Larry Williams discovered that: “Direct requests for help between colleagues drive 75 to 90 percent of all the help exchanged within organizations.”
That’s right – when in need at work and on the job, we turn to one another
THE EXPERIENCE OF BEING HELPFUL
So, let’s take a more personal look. You’ve certainly asked a coworker, “Anything I can do to help?” or simply “Need help?” Now, what made you feel good about offering that help? Perhaps you’d say:
• I used my skills and strengths.
• I drew from actual experience.
• I invested in the outcome.
• I helped my team’s results.
• I invested in the relationship with my co-worker.
• I helped my coworker solve a problem.
• I helped my coworker develop.
• I felt good about contributing.
It feels good to help, and being part of a dynamic and passionate team that fires you up can also fuel your helpfulness!
WHY DON’T WE ASK FOR HELP?
We know that being helpful is good for our relationships, our customers’ experience and our business results. And, while we may be more than ready to provide help, asking for it is sometimes more of a challenge. You may not ask for help for practical reasons:
• You don’t know who to ask: There is a subject matter expert out there somewhere, but you don’t know who that is.
• You don’t want to take advantage of others: Your coworkers have enough to do.
More commonly, a reluctance to ask for help is rooted in how you think and what you believe:
• You’ve been “taught” that asking for help is a sign of weakness – and that doesn’t feel good.
• You don’t want to look foolish or incompetent: You don’t want to lose face.
LET’S RETHINK THIS
These are realistic barriers, but they are surmountable when you reframe how you think about asking for help. For example:
1. Information and expertise are everywhere; it’s a matter of scouting them out. Begin to consciously identify each person’s strengths. Hmmm…Carlos is great with the new processing software. And
Jenna has nailed the problem resolution protocol. And nobody generates sales leads like Cherise. Exactly! Your coworkers possess a pool of wisdom, talent and expertise that they are almost always willing to share, to help with. Just be sure to reciprocate when they need your help.
2. Your coworkers have a lot on their plate. So, make it easier for them to help you by being respectful of their time. Hey, Cherise…you are so awesome at generating sales leads. Do you think I can pick your brain for a few minutes at lunch sometime this week? New skillsets take time to develop, so plan accordingly; be intentional and strategic with your requests for help.
3. Our beliefs are the hardest to change. Consider what you know about the power of giving and receiving help at work. Imagine help as a network of information, support and goodwill that operates nonstop between people all the time. You can participate in this exchange when you begin to see that doing so is a sign of strength, professionalism and your personal commitment to growth and development.
Help given and help received is powerful. It is key to expanding expertise, solving difficult problems, sharing the load and reinforcing our sense of team. Embrace it!
www.megansmith-photography.com
info@megansmith-photography.com
Crafting the Perfect December Cocktail
by ELISA WALLACE COPPEDE
THE WINTER DAIQUIRI
While rum is often enjoyed within warm weather cocktails, this liquor can also be delicious in winter months! The Winter Daiquiri, courtesy of Delish.com, is the perfect beverage to enjoy on a frigid winter evening!
INGREDIENTS
1 ounce Banks 5 Island Rum, 1 ounce Cruzan Black Strap Rum, ¾ ounce freshly squeezed lime juice, ¾ ounce simple syrup and a lime wheel for garnish!
DIRECTIONS
1. Add the Banks 5 Island Rum, Cruzan Black Strap Rum, lime juice and simple syrup into a cocktail shaker with ice and shake until well chilled.
2. Strain into a coupe glass.
3. Garnish with a lime wheel.
4. Instead of using rum, use pineapple juice for a virgin version of this cocktail.
YULE MULE
As the seasons transition from fall to winter, temperatures drop, causing us all to retreat indoors. This month is already filled with holiday activities and parties. With the holiday season in full swing, now is a fantastic time to investigate new beverages to present at your next holiday party. Rather than simply offering the expected holiday beverages, read on for a few fresh ideas to try out with your guests! Forsyth Family has compiled a list of five delightful cocktails to try, with or without alcohol.
MULLED CIDER
This cocktail, from GoodFood.com, will not only taste delicious, but will also make the room smell amazing while you heat it up!
INGREDIENTS
1 ½ liters dry cider, 7 T Calvados, 400mL apple juice, 75g dark brown sugar, zest 1 orange pared into strips, 4 whole cloves, 2 cinnamon sticks broken in half, 1 T allspice.
DIRECTIONS
1. Pour the cider, Calvados, apple juice and sugar into a large saucepan.
2. Gently heat to mull.
3. Add the orange zest and spices, bring to a simmer, then turn down and keep on a low heat for 20-30 minutes.
4. Ladle into glass mugs to serve.
5. Substitute the Calvados for club soda, or simply omit it, for an alcohol-free version.
APPLE SPRITZ
JINGLE JUICE
This crowdpleasing punch, also from Delish.com, is festive and perfect to offer during a holiday party. Not only will your guests enjoy the flavor, they will also admire the look of this delicious drink.
INGREDIENTS
Lime wedges for glasses, ½ cup granulated sugar, 2 (750mL) bottle red Moscato, 1 (750mL) bottle Prosecco, 4 cups cran-apple juice, 2 cups frozen cranberries, ½ cup vodka, 1/3 cup mint leaves and 2 limes sliced into rounds.
DIRECTIONS
1. Rub rims of glasses with lime wedges. Dip in sugar until coated.
2. In a punch bowl, combine Moscato, Prosecco, cran-apple juice, cranberries, vodka, mint, and lime rounds.
3. Divide between prepared glasses.
4. Substitute the Moscato, Prosecco and Vodka for club soda for an alcoholfree version! 1 2 3 4 5
Also, courtesy of Delish.com, this drink looks as good as it tastes. While the traditional Moscow Mule uses lime juice, this version substitutes the lime with cranberry and orange juice.
INGREDIENTS
2” sprig fresh rosemary, plus more for serving, 2” orange peel, 1 ½ ounces vodka, ice, 1 ½ ounces of fresh orange juice, 1 ounce of unsweetened cranberry juice, ginger beer for topping off and an orange wedge and fresh cranberries for garnish.
DIRECTIONS
1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle rosemary sprig and orange peel to release oils. Add vodka and muddle until combined and fragrant, about 30 seconds.
2. Strain it into an ice-filled copper mug. Add orange and cranberry juices and stir until the cocktail is cold and condensation forms on the outside of the cup, about 30 seconds.
3. Top off with ginger beer. Garnish with orange wedge, cranberries and rosemary sprig.
4. Consider substituting vodka with club soda or more ginger beer for an alcohol-free version.
Move over Aperol Spritz, Apple Spritz, courtesy of GoodFood.com, is here to heat up those frosty winter nights. Alcohol can again be substituted with club soda for an alcohol-free version.
INGREDIENTS
Ice, 2 red apple slices to garnish, 80mL Aperol, 140mL apple cider, 80mL Prosecco, soda water for topping off.
DIRECTIONS
1. Put a couple of ice cubes and two apple slices in two glasses, then divide the Aperol between them.
2. Divide the cider and Prosecco between the glasses, then top with soda water, if you like.
3. Stir briefly to combine, then serve.
WINSTON SALEM SYMPHONY & SYMPHONY CHORUS
Saturday, Dec 13 | 7:30 PM
Wait Chapel Wake Forest University
Join us for a beautiful Winston-Salem tradition! Handel’s glorious Messiah will transform you— familiar music including the famous “Hallelujah” chorus, brilliant Baroque sounds, and soaring arias from GRAMMY®-winning, internationally renowned soloists. It’s the perfect classical soundtrack to the season.
We’ve all been there: someone offers help with the familiar line, “Let me know what you need.” It’s well-meaning, sure—but often it lands as… empty. The truth is, it’s hard to know exactly what you need in the moment, and asking someone to figure it out for you can feel like just another task.
The better approach? Offer specific, actionable ways to help. Little gestures can mean the world, especially when life gets messy. Here are nine ways to say what you actually mean:
“I’M RUNNING ERRANDS LATER—CAN I GRAB YOU SOMETHING?”
Even the simplest errand, like a grocery run or coffee pick-up, becomes a meaningful way to show you care.
“I MADE EXTRA FOOD, CAN I DROP SOME OFF ON YOUR PORCH?”
A warm meal, no strings attached, can be the hug someone didn’t know they needed.
“WANT COMPANY? OR JUST SOMEONE TO SIT WITH?”
9 Thoughtful Alternatives to “Let
Me Know What You Need”
“I’M FREE THIS WEEKEND IF YOU WANT QUIET COMPANY OR HELP GETTING STUFF DONE!”
Flexibility paired with a concrete offer—help with a project, cleaning, errands—gives someone options without pressure.
“I KNOW CALLS CAN BE DRAINING—WANT ME TO TEXT INSTEAD?”
Acknowledging someone’s energy limits shows empathy and meets them where they are.
“I’M GRABBING COFFEE LATER, CAN I GET YOU ONE AND DROP IT AT YOUR DOOR?”
Little joys—like a favorite latte—can feel like big acts of care.
“YOU DON’T HAVE TO SAY ANYTHING. I’M NOT GOING ANYWHERE.”
Sometimes the best support is just being present and available, without any expectation of reciprocation.
The key is thoughtfulness paired with action. Specific offers make it easier for someone to accept help, reduce their mental load, and remind them they aren’t alone. Next time you want to show up for a friend, family member, or neighbor, skip the vague line. Try one of these instead—you’ll be amazed at how far a little clarity and care can go. 1
Sometimes presence matters more than words. Offering quiet company acknowledges that you’re there without demanding conversation.
“CAN I TAKE [SPECIFIC THING] OFF YOUR PLATE THIS WEEK?”
Laundry, dishes, dog walking, a Zoom call—getting specific shows that you’re serious about helping and saves the other person from deciding how to ask for help.
2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
“NO PRESSURE TO REPLY—I’M JUST THINKING OF YOU!”
Sometimes the most comforting thing is simply knowing someone is thinking of you without expecting a response.
by TANNER JOHNSON
DOUBLE SMOKED SPIRAL HAM
For December I wanted to share a go to holiday dish that I love doing - a double smoked spiral ham!
This is a pretty simple recipe that doesn’t require a whole lot of prep - so it’s perfect for feeding a group and pretty hands off so you can enjoy quality time! I always do this in a smoker, running around 250 degrees, but I’m sure this would turn out just fine in the oven as well!
INGREDIENTS
1 Spiral Cut Bone-in Ham
Seasoning of choice - I like a sweet heat type of rub for this, there are so many options (Meat Church Honey Hog Hot, Cuso’s Hot Honey are two that work great on this). You can also mix together some ingredients you may have in the pantry already for a great sweet heat homemade rub - 1 Cup Brown Sugar, ½ tsp mustard powder, ½ tsp cayenne pepper (or more if you like it spicy), ¼ tsp onion powder, 1 tsp paprika & some cracked black pepper & salt to taste.
GLAZE INGREDIENTS
1.5 Cups of Texas Pete Honey Mustard 2-3 Tablespoons Honey
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Preheat smoker to 250.
2. Season ham all over and get into the crevices of the spiral cuts for maximum flavor.
3. Place ham in a disposable half steam pan.
4. Smoke at 250 until the thickest part get to an internal temp of around 130 (usually around 2-3 hours, can be more if the ham is large).
5. Mix together the glaze (Honey Mustard + Honey) you can even throw a little of the sweet heat seasoning in there with it
7. Once the ham is temping at 130 brush the glaze all over the ham, and place it back in the smoker.
8. It just needs a little while for the glaze to stick on there, so keep an eye on it and pull when you’re at 140 internal (around 20 minutes or so).
9. Pull the ham, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing it up.
Note: for easy slicing, you can cut a circle around the bone and it should easily fall apart. Then slice through the ham along the seams which are the natural breaks
Purpose Push:
The Gift of Rest
Slow down! The year is concluding whether you’re ready or not. A question that I’ve been asking myself, and I propose now to you is, what’s the rush?
You can look at the goals you set at the beginning of the year, but remember, whether you accomplished 90%, 50% or 1%, you made progress. In your walk with God, your understanding will continue to evolve, and you’ll soon accept that God’s plan is always best and His timing is always perfect.
PAUSING IS PRODUCTIVE
The first to practice the concept of pausing was God (Genesis 2:2-3), and it’s a divine gift that we should use to remain creative and effective. If you have a hard time with this, I’m right there with you because I often feel like I should be doing something, even when I take a break from business tasks. However, I’ve realized my most profitable ideas have come during periods of doing nothing, and this proves pausing is a part of our creative cycle.
RESTING IS TRUSTING
When you carve out time to rest and rejuvenate your mind and body, you’re showing God that you trust Him with what’s being built. Don’t make things harder than they should be by worrying and overexerting. Meditate on scriptures like Matthew 11:28-30 and Psalm 127:2 which highlight that you should not toil but instead embrace the rest God gives you, because He loves you dearly.
Jesus demonstrated the balance between work and rest brilliantly and achieved His mission which will impact the world forever, in just three years. Anytime Jesus left everyone to pray, He was not worried about
Sheridan C. Watkins is a journalist and the owner of Perennial Peaces, a jewelry and gifts brand focused on transcending human understanding of God’s love and being a source of peace on Earth. Her true work began after victory over depression, and her calling is to provide peace through her Divine gifts to help women heal and transform their lives. Follow the mission on Instagram, Facebook & TikTok: @perennialpeaces
by SHERIDAN C. WATKINS
missed opportunities to perform miracles. In these times of retreat, He focused on the source that provided what was needed to keep going. Jesus was completely dependent upon God (John 15:5). When you do as Christ did and focus on your source for replenishment, you enter the most peaceful rest and come out of it fully charged and clear on your next steps.
WHAT REST LOOKS LIKE IN BUSINESS
The things you consistently monitor throughout the day, like social media, analytics and project management tools, could be the first things you step away from for a period of time. During this period, replace the time gaps with nourishing mental, spiritual and emotional activities. You can journal with your stream of consciousness, go for long walks, listen to music, play with your pets longer, read a fiction book, make appointments for self care and anything else that brings you back to yourself. It’s that simple. And, of course, having those transformative talks with God as you prepare for what’s next.
So, as you prepare for a new year, give yourself permission to breathe and renew your spirit for what’s ahead. You’ve done enough, you are enough and God is still working behind the scenes as you rest. I have faith in you.
GIVE THE GIFT OF CLEAN LIVING:
by JANE BURNETTE healthcoachjane.com
IG @coachjanebb FB @coachjanebb
Show your love in the purest way possible – by gifting clean living essentials. Choosing toxin-free gifts may take a little extra effort, but the payoff is huge – fewer harmful chemicals in our homes, healthier bodies and a lighter environmental footprint. This holiday season, give gifts that feel indulgent and intentional.
Before diving into curated ideas for every type on your list – from the beauty lover to the at-home chef – let’s talk about why “clean” truly matters.
WHY CLEAN LIVING COUNTS
The products we use daily – lotions, makeup, cleaners, even candles –often contain ingredients that can affect our hormones, skin and overall health. And since our skin absorbs much of what we put on it, these toxins don’t just sit on the surface; they make their way into our bodies.
Here are a few common offenders worth avoiding:
• Parabens – Used to preserve products but linked to hormone disruption.
• Phthalates – Found in synthetic fragrances and nail polishes; they’ve been tied to reproductive and developmental concerns.
• Sulfates – These foaming agents strip natural oils, often leaving skin and hair dry and irritated.
• Formaldehyde – A known carcinogen hiding in some nail and hair products.
Beyond personal health, these ingredients can also harm our planet. Microbeads and certain synthetic chemicals end up in waterways, threatening marine life and ecosystems. Choosing cleaner options means taking care of both ourselves and the environment – a win for everyone.
So, this year, skip the generic gift cards and give something that feels special, beautiful and good for you
FOR THE BEAUTY JUNKIE
Every friend group has one – the person who’s always glowing, perfectly glossed and up to date on every new serum. For the beauty lover, go for clean and conscious products free of parabens, phthalates, sulfates and silicones.
• Credo Beauty makes shopping easy by offering only vetted, nontoxic products.
• Sephora’s “Clean” line (look for the green leaf logo) is another great option – brands like Ilia, Kosas, Drunk Elephant and Tata Harper deliver luxury with a conscience.
• A makeup bag stocked with these favorites or a gift card to a clean beauty retailer makes a thoughtful, health-forward surprise.
FOR THE HOME DÉCOR ENTHUSIAST
For the friend who loves cozy textures, seasonal candles and curated spaces, think of gifts that elevate their home’s vibe without polluting their air.
• Candles made from soy, coconut or beeswax with cotton or wood wicks are ideal. Choose essential oil-based scents over synthetic fragrances. Local favorite Golden Magnolia candles at Theodore’s at Reynolda Village are perfect for gifting.
• Organic bedding is another luxe yet practical gift – bamboo or organic cotton sheets from Cozy Earth, Quince or similar brands are irresistibly soft and chemical-free.
• Add a simple ribbon or sprig of greenery for a beautifully understated presentation.
FOR THE FOODIE
These are the friends who can’t wait to share their latest restaurant discovery or Trader Joe’s haul. Give them something delicious, mindful and memorable.
• Wildgrain: A subscription box featuring artisanal sourdough breads, pastries and pastas made with clean ingredients.
• Dry Farm Wines: Curated, low-sugar, additive-free wines that taste amazing without the next day regret.
• Caviste in Winston-Salem also carries an impressive selection of biodynamic wines – an ideal local option.
• ButcherBox: Deliveries of grass-fed, wild-caught meats and seafood.
• Or assemble a Trader Joe’s basket of organic cheeses, nuts, dark chocolate and olive oil for an easy, crowd-pleasing gift.
FOR THE CHEF
We all have that person whose kitchen seems to attract everyone in the house. Celebrate their love of cooking with thoughtful upgrades that support cleaner living.
• Utensils: Replace worn out plastic tools with durable wooden or heat-safe silicone options. Check out Williams Sonoma, Trader Joe’s or Southern Kitchen & Home for stylish picks.
• Cookware: Help them ditch the scratched nonstick pans. Opt for ceramic, stainless steel, cast iron or Caraway pieces –safe, functional and beautiful enough to leave on display.
• A set of glass storage containers or beeswax wraps is another eco-friendly touch they’ll actually use.
Clean living isn’t about being perfect – it’s about being intentional. By gifting toxin-free beauty, sustainable home items or thoughtfully sourced food, you’re giving something that feels indulgent but supports lasting wellness.
Wishing you a joyful, light and guilt-free holiday season!
Welcome back to another Trying New Things!
In this monthly column, I try a health, wellness or fitness activity to help you decide if you want to give it a try. From last month with recreational softball to a few months ago when I tried CrossFit, each has been a different way to not only get in a workout, but to have fun, too. Not long ago, I tried mat Pilates. This month, I took it up a notch and tried reformer Pilates.
WHAT IS IT?
As I mentioned in my previous mat Pilates article, Pilates was created by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century as a rehabilitation method. Over time, it has evolved into a popular form of exercise for dancers, athletes and, now, everyday people looking for a way to move. While mat Pilates is more accessible, especially with so many online videos to help people learn for free at home, reformer Pilates requires special equipment, the reformer and a
Trying New Things: reformer pilates
certified instructor which makes it a bit pricier and harder to find. The reformer features a moving carriage, springs for adjustable resistance and straps to guide different movements.
TWO DIFFERENT EXPERIENCES
In order to provide an authentic review of reformer Pilates, I took two classes at two different studios to understand the scope of what is available. They could not have been more different.
The first studio had a calm, almost meditative energy. Soft music played in the background and the instructor guided us slowly through each movement. We took breaks, focused on form and were encouraged to notice how each exercise felt in our bodies. It had more of a rehabilitation feel with less sweat and more awareness. I left feeling relaxed and rejuvenated and not overly sore for the following days.
by ISABELLA CASTINEYRA
The second class, on the other hand, felt like a different world. The room was dark with lights around the mirrors, the music was loud and the instructor kept up a constant stream of directions through a microphone. The pace was fast, the moves complex and I was barely keeping up. Luckily, the instructor was helpful in assisting me with form and adjusting the machine springs, but it was much more of a workout. In particular, my shoulders were aching the next day in a way I’ve never felt.
BEGINNER FRIENDLY?
Beginner friendly depends entirely on where you decide to go and what instructor you have, from my experience.
If you’re new to Pilates or just curious, I would not make the same mistake I did and sign up for an intermediate class to start. I’d recommend starting with a slower paced, fundamentals-style class and jumping up to a more challenging one when you’re familiar with the reformer machine. It takes time to get comfortable with the new movements and equipment. I think the faster paced class will be really fun when I get more accustomed.
For those interested in a more slow paced, rehabilitation style class, I think it is absolutely beginner friendly. I will mention again that it is not a super accessible activity – it’s expensive, requires equipment and may take time in finding the right place that suits your style. There are a lot of people that really love and gravitate towards Pilates, so it could be a new activity you find out you really love!
DID I FEEL LIKE I WAS WORKING OUT?
I felt like I was working out, but not in the sweaty, heartracing way I so often associate a “good workout” with.
In the slower class, I didn’t break a sweat, but the small, controlled movements with unfamiliar equipment had me shaking at times. I also felt absolutely incredible after. The faster paced class, on the other hand, was undeniably tough. My heart rate was up, it was loud with music and instructions, and I was struggling to complete some of the exercises. It was harder to follow but, with practice, I think I would be able to learn the system.
Overall, reformer Pilates is a unique blend of rehabilitation, mindfulness and challenge. I like how many styles are available so more people can find what clicks with their needs. I can absolutely see myself giving it another few tries to really grow comfortable so I am learning the movements and equipment less, and focusing on the exercise more.
Women Wild in the
by AMY HILL
Worried About Whales?
We’ve all heard horror stories about whales. From SeaWorld deaths to capsized boats in open waters, it’s understandable to be equally awed and intimidated by some of the world’s largest mammals. Despite this, tourists still pay big bucks to embark on whalewatching cruises in vacation destinations such as Maui, Cape Cod, Alaska, Washington State, California and more. With whalewatching season kicking off in Maui this month, I decided to dive deeper into what makes these creatures so fascinating to onlookers and scientists.
Upon researching whales, I discovered that there are two types of whales –toothed and baleen (with the help of a 2024 article by Discover Magazine).
Beluga whales, orcas and sperm whales are considered “toothed” since they indeed have teeth and eat squid, fish and other marine mammals. Meanwhile, there are 14 variations of baleen whales, including the commonly mentioned humpback and blue whales. Unlike the more overtly predatory toothed whales, baleen whales trap food sources like fish and plankton through water-filtering plates.
Whales are surprisingly intelligent. Blue and humpback whales are notorious for their communication via whale songs during mating season.
On the other hand, toothed whales communicate via echolocation, or sound waves that bounce off objects in water, in addition to communicating with whistles and clicks to other whales within their pod.
Social dynamics within whale pods are also studied among scientists. It has been discovered that pods are often strongly bonded and that whales engage in play and learning, in addition to experiencing empathy and compassion. When grieving their offspring, female whales even carry their deceased calf with them. Humpback whales have also been seen defending other whales and mammals from orca attacks.
On a heavier note, orcas (also referred to as killer whales) are recognized by their iconic black and white colors, prey on larger whales and are closely related to dolphins. According to the Whale and Dolphin Conservation, orcas also hunt fish, seals, sea lions, dolphins, sharks, rays, squids and seabirds.
Aside from the tragic death of SeaWorld trainer Dawn Brancheau in 2010, orcas have been responsible for approaching kayakers and ramming and sinking yachts, fishing boats and sailboats. A September 2025 article in USA Today referenced a recent incident off Portugal on September 13th where orcas attacked a sailboat, breaking the rudder and creating a hole that allowed water to enter the vessel. Fortunately, the five sailors on board were left unscathed. Although scientists insist that boat attacks
entertained by boat rudders, as the open ocean can be a very boring place. This phenomenon can be comparable on a much smaller scale to dogs chasing cars or cats toying with random household objects in their spare time between naps.
When it comes to the violent and tragic death of trainer Dawn Brancheau, a 2010 TIME Magazine article explains what may have triggered orca Tilikum’s aggression, an orca who was previously involved with the drowning of another trainer in 1991 alongside two other orcas. Additionally, in 1999, the body of a SeaWorld trespasser who jumped in the whale tank was found lying across Tilikum’s back. Scientists can only conclude that orcas can also lash out in aggression when in a bad mood or if they feel threatened, much like humans, but are not typically considered threatening to humans in particular. It has also been theorized that living in captivity may have been a stressor for Tilikum, although most of his orca peers seem to adjust to life in captivity without taking out their aggression on trainers. Although it is unclear as to what exactly triggered Tilikum’s attack, it is safe to conclude that orcas have bigger fish to fry and that humans are not at the top of the killer whale menu.
Varonica Mitchell is a multi-talented youth entertainer, actress, comedian, dancer and drummer in NC. She rose to viral fame by age nine and is the star of her online hit “The VV Show” whick has gained more than 3.5 million followers and millions of views across platforms with her amazing educational tours and motivational and comedy clips. Varonica is an honor roll student at Henderson Collegiate. Managed by longtime Disney and Nickelodeon executive producer Irene Dreayer, Varonica is also partnered with Academy Awardwinning Lions Forge Entertainment and has worked alongside major studios like Sony Pictures and Disney Animation. She has been featured on The Jennifer Hudson Show, CBS 17 and Fox 5. Recognized by the icon actor Will Smith as one of the most promising young actresses today, and others such as Yvette Nicole Brown. She’s a two-time Atlanta Kidz Choice Award winner. Varonica also partners with organizations and schools to give back through donations, educational events and motivational outreach, school supply giveaways, her food pantry and soup kitchen and so much more. She serves as a celebrity brand ambassador for Zigazoo, the nation’s #1 safe social media app for children, as well as a celebrity Godparent for Keke Palmer’s organization called “Saving Our Daughters” in which they visit schools around the nation to build confidence, motivate and inspire. She was honored by the City of Henderson, NC with an Official Declaration Proclamation VV Day where June 11th will be honored as VV day in the history books by Vance County’s Mayor, city officials and leaders of the community for her local and national impact. Above all, she is followed by her parents and her big sister, Danielle. Varonica is grounded in her faith, led by her favorite scripture, Romans 12:1. She is a humble light –anointed, appointed and just getting started.
CARLY COCKERHAM
From a young age, Carly Cockerham has always had a heart for animals. “As a little girl, I would beg my mom to take me to PetSmart on Saturdays, so I could help rescue dogs find their forever homes -- a passion that’s guided me ever since. After earning my degree in elementary education and my masters in communication and business leadership from High Point University, I set out to turn that passion into purpose. I began my career at Forsyth Humane Society, later joined Highland Canine and, in March 2024, I started at AARF. I love working at AARF because I am surrounded by so many passionate and driven animal welfare advocates. I was recently promoted to Executive Director, and I am excited for what the future holds. I’m dedicated to helping homeless dogs and cats find loving homes – and ensuring families have the support and resources they need to keep their pets. When I’m not at work, you’ll find me doing CrossFit, baking my famous chocolate chip cookies or spending time going on adventures with my husband, Caleb, and our daughter, Callie.
WOMEN ON THE MOVE
(continued from page 84)
LEAH WINSTEAD
Leah Winstead is the Director of Global Events at apexanalytix, where she leads large scale corporate conferences and trade shows across the world. With more than 12 years at the company and certifications as both a CMP and CMM, Leah has built a career centered on creating experiences that connect, inspire and elevate. Her passion for meaningful connection extends beyond the corporate world. Leah is also the founder of The JetSet Mindset, a boutique travel brand designed to help women rediscover themselves through intentional, luxury Girl Gang Getaways around the globe. From the Mountains of NC to Edinburgh, UK, each curated experience blends self care, community and adventure, empowering high achieving women to travel with purpose. A graduate of UNC Greensboro, Leah holds a degree in recreation, parks and tourism, with minors in communication studies and business. She has always combined creativity with strategy in everything she does. Originally from Charlotte, NC, she now calls Greensboro home. Outside of work, Leah loves exploring new destinations and attending local wellness events. She believes travel isn’t just about the places you go, it’s about who you become along the way.
JENNIE HESS
A native of North Carolina’s Piedmont, Jennie Hess is no stranger to building connections and creating meaningful experiences. After spending the early part of her career in advertising sales – including serving as Forsyth Woman’s lead account executive for Forsyth Woman Engaged! from 2009 to 2014, Jennie took her love of people, service and storytelling into the world of hospitality and events. Over the next decade, she played key roles in shaping some of North Carolina’s most beloved venues and brands, including co-owning Perfect Pair Events and helping launch both Foothills Brewing’s Footnote event space and Dynamis Estate Wines. Most recently, she led hospitality efforts at Shelton Vineyards, where she perfected the art of making every guest feel at home. Now, Jennie is thrilled to return to her publishing roots as the newest Account Executive with Forsyth Magazines. Known for her warmth, creativity and deep understanding of what connects communities, Jennie is excited to help local businesses share their stories in fresh and meaningful ways. When she’s not meeting with clients or brainstorming ideas, Jennie and her husband, Terry, enjoy a little extra flexibility in their schedule these days – often sneaking away for some well-earned downtime at the beach.
LOCAL EVENTS
*Event details are subject to change. Please check event websites & social media pages for updates as the dates draw near.*
DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON
HOLIDAYS AT
REYNOLDA
The former estate of R.J. and Katharine Reynolds is dressed for the season with special programs at Reynolda House and Reynolda Gardens. Included with museum admission: Caroling Fridays (Dec. 5th & 12th). Ticketed highlights include Enchanted Christmas Evening tours (Dec. 13th & 17th) and Wreath Decorating classes (Dec. 3rd-7th). Don’t miss shopping and dining in Reynolda Village which features holiday specials and festive decor throughout the season.
NOW THROUGH DECEMBER 20
HOLIDAYS
IN OLD SALEM
Old Salem. Old Salem Museums & Gardens feels extra magical this time of year. An All-In-One Ticket grants access to a dozen+ historic buildings adorned in period décor. Meet costumed interpreters, see festive trade demonstrations, and experience Moravian traditions. Highlights include: Joy of Christmas Evening Tours. Nov. 28–Dec. 20 (Fridays & Saturdays) where you can explore several historic buildings by lantern light. Tours run 6:30–8pm, depart every 15 minutes and last about one hour. Tickets: $60 adults; $40 students. Suitable for all ages. Salem Saturdays at Christmas. Nov. 29–Dec. 20 (Saturdays) where you can enjoy an elevated mix of holiday activities during operating hours (10am-4pm).
NOW THROUGH DECEMBER 21 (WEEKENDS)
SPECTACULAR HOLIDAY BLOOMS
5:30-9pm, Paul J. Ciener Botanical Garden in Kernersville. Stroll among illuminated “recycled tulips” at Paul J. Ciener Botanical Garden, plus festive trees and more than 10,000 glowing “flowers.” The display is open to tour each weekend evening (Friday to Sunday). Tickets: $5 adults; $2 students; free ages 5 and under.
NOW THROUGH JANUARY 1
TANGLEWOOD FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
6-11pm, Tanglewood. One of the southeast’s largest light displays returns with 80+ scenes and more than a million lights along a five-mile route. Admission: $20 cash/$23 credit per family vehicle. Mid-route Gift Village features shopping and s’mores at S’moresville. Open nightly.
NOW THROUGH JANUARY 3
CHRISTMAS AT KÖRNER’S FOLLY
The “strangest house in America” shines with Victorian-inspired décor across 22 rooms. Self-guided tours: Tuesdays-Saturdays 10 am-4pm; Sundays 12-4pm (last entry 3pm). Tours take about one hour. Tickets: $12 adults; $6 ages 6-18; free 5 and under. Also, see Christmas by Candlelight evening tours on December 13th & 20th.
DECEMBER 4
4TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY SIP AND SHOP IN KERNERSVILLE
6-8pm, 811 East Mountain Street in Kernersville. Come in for free pictures with Santa, sip a little and shop a lot! Support small business and cross items off your Christmas shopping list!
DECEMBER 5
FESTIVE FAMILY FRIDAY AT KALEIDEUM
2-8pm, Kaleideum. Put the festive in your Friday with an afternoon and evening full of joyful, memory making moments at Kaleideum! The museum will be buzzing with music, laughter, creativity and holiday cheer. Whether you stay for a few hours or enjoy the full six, you’ll find something magical waiting around every corner. Highlights include: photos with Santa in the Storytelling Exhibit, captured by photographer Devin Lane (2:30-4:30pm and 5:30-7:30pm); DJ Hek Yeh spinning holiday tunes in La STEAM (2:30–4:30 pm); live performances by Titifara Puppets, Seasons Best Carolers and Spring Theatre; holiday magic by Steve Feldman; reindeer food making, Snow Much Fun Sensory Room; and other hands-on holiday crafts celebrating the many traditions that make up the holiday season. Festive Family Friday is a can’t-miss celebration designed to delight kids and grown-ups alike. From sweet holiday moments to playful surprises, it’s the perfect way to kick off the season in the heart of downtown Winston-Salem. Don’t miss this magical family night!
DECEMBER 6
SAWTOOTH SPOTLIGHT
11am-4pm, Sawtooth School for Visual Art, 251 North Spruce Street in W-S. Join Sawtooth for their year-end celebration of art and community! Discover unique artworks perfect for gift-giving from local artists, including ceramics, jewelry, textiles and more. Admission is free with a suggested donation of $5 to support Sawtooth’s scholarship and community outreach programs.
DECEMBER 6
CHRISTMAS TREASURES SALE
8am-12pm, Clemmons Moravian Church. All gently used holiday related items including ornaments, lights, trees and many other decorations. Proceeds will be shared with Clemmons Food Pantry and The Storehouse for Jesus. Call 336.941.3062 to donate items.
DECEMBER 6
CHRISTMAS AT BETHABARA
1:30-4:30pm, Historic Bethabara Park. Travel through time as we explore eighteenth and nineteenth century Christmas traditions in Old Town Bethabara. Explore the decorated 1788 Gemeinhaus and 1834 Log House; enjoy seasonal music from Duo Licht and a Moravian Brass Band; interact with 18th century craftsmen; meet Sister Anna Catharina (a lively first-person performance); and make a Christmas craft or two. Admission is free!
DECEMBER 6
2025 WS AMBASSADORS HOLIDAY PARADE
4:45-5:45pm, 4th Street at Poplar Street in Downtown W-S. The official event of the WS Ambassadors Holiday Parade!
DECEMBER 7
UNCSA CANTATA SINGERS HOLIDAY CONCERT
3-5pm, Home Moravian Church, 529 Church Street in W-S. The season of celebration begins with the UNCSA Cantata Singers’ joyous annual holiday concert. This beloved free event ushers in the holidays with grand, melodious cheer.
DECEMBER
13
KALEIDEUM AFTER DARK: TWIN CITY SANTA
7-11pm, Kaleideum. Dress to dazzle in your seasonal best, bring an unwrapped toy ($25 value) and get ready for a night packed with holiday magic. DJ Hek Yeh will keep the dance floor moving, the Digital Dome will turn into the ultimate holiday karaoke stage, the photo booth will capture all the memories and hors d’oeuvres will keep you merry and bright. Best of all, every donation helps bring joy to local children through Twin City Santa’s toy drive tradition – and your admission includes two drink tickets for beer, wine or non-alcoholic beverages. Cost: $30 online + bring a $25 toy | $35 at the door + toy (or $25 donation). Unwrapped toy or monetary toy donation of $25 is required for entry. Event sponsored by Mast General Store.
DECEMBER
14 & 21
TOUR POUR DU JOUR AT THE GRAYLYN ESTATE
4-6pm, The Graylyn Estate, 1900 Reynolda Road in W-S. Travel back in time as you learn about the Gray Family’s beginnings in W-S and learn more about the mysteries of The Graylyn Estate. Enjoy a guided tour of the Manor House while viewing the architectural gems of our estate. Cost: $60/person and includes appetizers and wine in our library. To book a tour or to make a dinner reservation, please call 336.758.2425. Tour Pour Du Jour reservations may also be made at the event link. Dinner reservations may be made on OpenTable.
DECEMBER 21
BRUNCH
WITH SANTA
10am-2pm, Harmon House, 149 S. Main Street in Kernersville. Bring the family, and enjoy a festive brunch while Santa makes a special appearance. Tickets are $20/person, and seating is limited!
DECEMBER 31
NEW YEARS EVENING DINNER AT SHELTON VINEYARDS
5-9pm, Shelton Vineyards, 286 Cabernet Lane in Dobson. Get ready for a New Year’s Eve that shines bright! Join us at the Harvest Grill for an unforgettable night filled with sparkling wine, silver style and celebration. Enjoy a special chef-crafted menu, a complimentary glass of our sparkling Riesling for each guest 21+ and plenty of festive fun – from our themed photo booth to interactive resolution cards to kick off 2026 in style.
FUTURE
JANUARY 7-FEBRUARY 28
DEAN ROLAND JOHNSON EXHIBIT
Salem College’s Elberson Fine Art Center. After receiving a MFA from Pratt Institute, he taught art in college for several years. During that time, he exhibited and received several museum purchase awards. While his professional journey has taken many paths, the common thread has been all things visual. This exhibit features botanical paintings inspired by his love of nature. Dean has been painting with passion since childhood.
Conversation with Your BFF
We’ve all been there – a dusty candle you’ll never burn, a scarf that isn’t your color or a kitchen gadget still in the box two birthdays later. Enter the ageold holiday hack of “re-gifting.” Done thoughtfully, it can be a savvy way to reduce waste and spread joy. Done carelessly? Well, you might just find yourself handing your best friend her own Christmas present from last year… and watching the realization dawn on her face in real time. So, how do you handle a re-gifting gone awry? I am so glad you asked!
DON’T DENY IT, THAT ONLY MAKES THINGS WORSE
The worst thing you can do is pretend nothing happened. If your friend recognizes the gift – maybe even worse, she wrote a note inside the cover of a book, trying to dodge the truth will only make it more awkward. A quick and humble admission is your best bet.
OWN THE MISTAKE WITH HUMOR
Sometimes the best way to defuse an awkward moment is to laugh at yourself. A little self deprecating humor goes a long way. Say something like, “Looks like I just earned the ‘Worst Gifter Ever’ award!”
OFFER TO MAKE IT RIGHT
Even if the gift wasn’t expensive, a re-gifting misstep can feel thoughtless. Show your friend that your relationship means more than the gift by making a small, meaningful gesture.
Try offering to take her for coffee to make up for your faux pas.
BE HONEST, BUT NOT OVERLY DETAILED
If your friend asks why you regifted the item in the first place, be honest but tactful.
“I thought it might be appreciated more by someone else, and I truly didn’t remember it was from you.”
Avoid throwing the gift under the proverbial bus. You might not have loved it, but someone else did and that someone is standing in front of you with hurt feelings.
“How Do I Explain Re-Gifting a Gift to the Friend Who Gave It to Me?”
by REBECCA COOPER
LEARN THE LESSON
If this incident taught you anything, it’s that re-gifting requires careful tracking. In the future, keep a little list of who gave what, especially if you are planning to pass it along. And, when in doubt? Donate the item or keep it. Not everything needs to reappear under someone else’s tree.
WHEN IT ALL BLOWS OVER…LAUGH TOGETHER
Once the moment has passed and your friendship survives the awkward blip, bring it up later with laughter. These are the stories that make the best holiday memories in hindsight.
“Remember the time I gave you your own candle back? Classic!”
Because at the end of the day, most friendships aren’t built on perfect gift exchanges, they’re built on trust, grace and a healthy sense of humor.
