Moments Jan 2014

January | February 2014

Exercise helps mom through challenges

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Moments Magazine | Version 3 2013

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John Hall Publisher Kevin Atwill Editor Adlen Robinson Director of Content Ryan Garmon Advertising Director Jennifer Sami Photographer Times Staff Graphic Design Contributing Writers Alyssa LaRenzie Crystal Ledford Jennifer Sami

Contents

8 Moments Mom

Ashlee Bright is training for a triathlon, but nothing could have prepared her for the ultimate test of strength — life with a disabled son.

12 Fashion

Make way for winter with an array of scarves and sweaters in romantic layers and fabrics.

10 Home Matters

Keep the winter doldrums from getting you down with several tips from the experts.

20 Dinner Matters Let the appliances make dinner tonight! Use a slow cooker to make hearty meals for cold stomachs.

ForsythMom - Page 8

Moments Magazine

is published bimonthly by the Forsyth County News Co�, 302 Veterans Memorial Boulevard, Cumming, GA 30040� Advertising rates and deadlines available upon request� Contact Ryan Garmon at (770) 205-8960 or rgarmon@forsythnews.com� Follow us online at forsythnews.com, as well as:

From the Cellar � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 18 Frugal Focus � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 22 Fitness � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 24 Health � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 26

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Moments Magazine | January - February 2014

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Welcome to

H

appy New Year! For most of us, that means setting some goals for 2014.

Does getting in shape and/or losing weight show up on your resolution list this year? If so, get ready for an issue of Moments that’s packed with information, inspiration and suggestions.

This issue’s Moments Mom is Ashlee Bright. A beautiful young mother, she’s also an incredible athlete. I can’t wait for you to read about her and her sweet family. I know you’ll love her as much as I did.

Rebekah Key, owner of Skincare Solutions here in Forsyth County, is another inspirational young

mom with whom I enjoyed spending time.

Her passion for skin care and natural products is worth learning about. I’m looking forward to visiting for a facial this month.

Also featured in this issue are tips on sneaking exercise into your life, slow cooker recipes and much more.

Don’t let the winter blues get you down. Let’s all get moving and meet our health goals this year.

Best,

Adlen W. Robinson is a longtime resident of Forsyth County and mother of four. A contributor to the Forsyth County News for more than 10 years, Adlen is author of “Home Matters: The Guide to Organizing Your Life and Home.” E-mail her at contact@adlenrobinson.com.

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7

Bright stays Moments Mom

positive N

ine years ago, things seemed nearly perfect in Ashlee Bright’s world.

Married to Greg, the love of her life, on the way up with a solid career and pregnant with the couple’s first child, all seemed peaceful.

But when she was 19 weeks pregnant, Bright went to her doctor for a routine ultrasound that would soon turn her world upside down.

“They knew something was wrong, but were not sure at first what it was,” she recalled.

After running tests, the couple received life-changing news — their son had spina bifida. The condition involves a congenital defect of the spine in which part of it is exposed through a gap in the backbone. It often can lead to a paralysis of the lower limbs.

A maternal fetal specialist carefully monitored her pregnancy, watching for a possible fluid buildup on the baby’s brain, known as hydrocephalus, extremely common with spina bifida.

Bright said she didn’t really know how to prepare for caring for a child with special needs. At 37 weeks, after experiencing a spike in her blood pressure, Bright delivered Carson via C-section.

The next day, a neurosurgeon and plastic surgeon closed the opening in baby Carson’s back, and soon determined a shunt in his brain was necessary to help keep the fluid off of it and drain into his abdomen. During the first three weeks of Carson’s young life, he underwent three surgeries.

After three weeks at the hospital, the Brights brought their newborn baby home.

“I guess I learned how to care for him day by day,” she said.

“In his first year of life, he had 11 surgeries.”

Carson has since had four more surgeries, as well as countless MRIs and procedures. In addition, the couple noticed a change in their child when he was still very young.

“He was losing his words and eye contact, so after tests were run, he was diagnosed with autism,” Bright explained.

8

Moments Magazine | January - February 2014

Ashlee Bright enjoys a moment with son Carson, 8, who suffers from spina bifida, autism and mitochondrial disease.

Photos by Jennifer Sami

During treatment for this, more tests determined Carson had more issues, and was in fact diagnosed with clinical mitochondrial disease.

Through all of this, Bright never lost hope for her precious baby boy.

“I always knew he was given to me for a reason,” she said. “There is a reason he is here and I am thankful every day to have him in my life.”

While Carson is “non-verbal,” everybody around him says he is quite the communicator.

“He definitely knows how to tell us what he wants,” Bright said.

Carson is also a happy child, who loves to entertain himself with his iPad. His favorite show to watch is “The Backyardigans.” He also gets around the house in his wheelchair like a pro. Bright affectionately calls Carson her “Bug.”

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For Ashlee Bright, top, exercise is more than a way to stay in shape, it’s a stress reliever. Bright is also the mother of daughter Aubrey, 5, who she describes as a “a bundle of energy.”

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Home Matters

Beatingwinterblahs the

Tips for keeping spirits, energy They are not called the “winter blues” for nothing.

Even though we live in the South and our winters are mild by most people’s standards, there are still plenty of gray, dark days ahead of us before spring.

If you tend to get down in the doldrums during winter months, here are some ideas to keep your spirits high 10

Moments Magazine | January - February 2014

and your optimism alive and well.

• Get moving. Exercise has been proven to keep depression at bay.

Even as little as 15 minutes of exercise a day can go a long way to improving your mood. (See “Sneaking Exercise into Your Life,” for more ideas on getting more exercise into your daily routine, page 24).

• Plan a mini-vacation. It doesn’t

have to be an expensive or a long trip, but plan on a little getaway with your spouse and/or family.

Many state parks have reasonably priced cabins for rent, or look for an online coupon for a reduced hotel room. Planning a trip and then getting away for a few days is always a boost to your spirits.

• Makeover a room in your home.

Again, this doesn’t have to be an expensive project, but just changing the wall color in your bedroom can dramatically change the look and feel of the space. And this can make you instantly feel uplifted.

While you’re at it, add new pillow

shams and a throw for the bed and new window scarves to really liven things up.

Look at local thrift stores for art work and accessories.

• Buy some houseplants. Plants make you feel like you’re in a tropical environment, and they have the added bonus of supplying more oxygen to the room.

If you “kill” all houseplants you adopt, try getting some artificial plants. They look so realistic and you don’t have to worry about over- or under-watering.

• Plan a springtime garden. Whether you plan on growing vegetables, flowers or both, the winter months are the perfect time to plan what you want to plant in the spring.

Better yet, buy some seeds and start your seedlings indoors. This is also a great activity to do with your children or grandchildren.

• Start a new indoor-type hobby.

Learn how to knit, sew, or paint.

We are lucky to live in a county that has a fantastic recreation department that offers a plethora of classes. They’re reasonably priced and a great way to experiment and see what hidden talents you may have.

• Change your look. Whether you change your hair color or just regular style, changing up your look can boost the spirits.

While you’re at it, why not treat yourself to a new outfit and ask your spouse out on a date.

• Adopt a pet or become a foster parent for a shelter animal. Studies show pets lower our blood pressure and just make us happy.

• Cook comfort food. Nobody can be in a bad mood when they are eating a bowl of chicken and dumplings or noshing on a helping of homemade spaghetti and meatballs.

• Volunteer. Nothing reminds you of how blessed you are then when you give of your time and talents to help those less fortunate.

There are so many opportunities just around the corner, so get involved.

-- Adlen W. Robinson

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Moments Magazine | January - February 2014

11

Fashion

Designs on winter Scarves, sweaters leading the way

12

Moments Magazine | January - February 2014

Photos by Crystal Ledford

Growing together and depending on each other.

This winter is all about contrasts in texture and subdued color pallets.

Christine Bieber, manager of Sage Fashion Wisdom in The Collection on Highway 141 in south Forsyth, said many popular items for the season include tops and dresses in light fabrics, topped with scarves and sweaters.

“The infinity scarf has been one of our best sellers so far this season,” she said. “It just lies on top of blouses or dresses, around the neck.

“Since it is one circular piece, ladies don’t have to worry about tying it in a current way. It is effortless and always looks beautiful.”

Dresses that are favorites for the season, Bieber said, include those in what she called “chiffony” fabrics.

“Pairing those with a sweater on top to stay warm creates a great look,” she said.

Dresses and blouses with lace overlays are in demand for more dressy occasions.

For more casual outings, jeans with a little glitz and glamour are hot items this year.

“Some of our best sellers are brands that offer just a touch of sparkle, usually on the back pockets,” Bieber said.

Colors this season are more subdued than the bright neon pallets that were trending in the spring and summer.

“We’re seeing a lot of darker colors like hunter green, plum and burgundy,” Bieber said. “Of course, classic black and ivory are always great for winter.”

– Crystal Ledford

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13

Moms at Work

Natural caring

Aesthetician has solutions for skin, stress

Ever since she was a little girl, Rebekah Key had a heart for all things natural.

“I guess you could say I was the nerd of the family,” said the mother of two young children. “I loved researching and searching for natural remedies and solutions for any sort of health problem.”

A licensed aesthetician and a certified medical aesthetician, Key opened Skin Solutions Skincare Studio in Cumming seven years ago. The business recently expanded, moving into the historic Otwell Home on Dahlonega Highway.

Built in 1930, the beautiful home has its original chandeliers, doors, bathrooms,

cedar closets and more. Clients can walk back in time as they come for one of the many services offered by Key and her associates.

“I guess you could say I have had my eye on this house since I was a teenager. I have always loved it,” Key said. “We were just down the road for seven years, but

Left: Rebekah Key, a licensed aesthetician Photos by Jennifer Sami and a certified medical aesthetician, owns and operates Skin Solutions Skincare Studio in Cumming. Key credits her mom, husband James and boys, Noah and Eli, with keeping her world going.

I love being able to work with my mother. And honestly, we are all like a family here.

14

Moments Magazine | January - February 2014

schedules, it takes a lot of teamwork.”

For Key, what she does on a daily basis to help her clients is much more than a business, it is her calling in life.

“We all have stress in our lives,” she said. “The joy we get out of helping a person who is stressed out or is going through a tough time and helping them connect with their physical, emotional and spiritual self is a major thing we strive to do.”

“Our makeup is amazing,” she said.

“There are no harsh chemicals and completely natural ingredients. This is a great way for women to change their look or just update it.”

Key said clients can also have a makeover party and enjoy a girls’ night out that way.

While her life is busy and often crazy, Key feels blessed to have a loving and supporting husband, James, and two sons, Noah, 10, and Eli, 2.

“I couldn’t’ do it all without James,” she said. “We both have such crazy

— Adlen W. Robinson

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when this place became available, and I walked in, I thought this is perfect.”

The home is both charming and practical with its use of space; the perfect calming environment for a day of pampering.

Shortly after opening Skin Solutions, Key found herself in need of a good general manager. While many wanted the job, Key knew there was one person who would be perfect—her mother, Sheila Holcombe.

“She is fantastic and keeps everything in order,” Key said with a smile. “I love being able to work with my mother.

And honestly, we are all like a family here.”

In addition to the skin services, there is also a yoga studio upstairs. Another Rebecca, Rebecca Thurmond, owns Yoga Selah, where she teaches yoga for all levels and is just wonderful.

Key is passionate about what she does and her enthusiasm for the business is obvious to all.

“I know it seems trendy to talk about facials and massages and the like, but I like to think people are just more educated about how important it is to take care of their skin and body,” Key said.

“We have so many treatments now that are safe and can heal the skin in a non-wounding way.”

Key is committed to holistic treatments that use natural products and ingredients, as well as the scientific knowledge behind each one. Each ingredient has a specific source. And her commitment goes beyond the ingredients; their origins are also of paramount importance.

Besides a bevy of services for the skin and body, Key also offers makeovers and all natural makeup. She explained that while the products they sell are mineral based, not all minerals are the same.

“Certain minerals can actually scratch the skin, so it is incredibly important to use the highest possible quality,” she said.

According to Key, most makeup on the market also contains fillers, which can be harmful to skin.

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15

Moments Mom Continued from Page 9 When Carson was 3, the couple welcomed daughter Aubrey into their home. She brought with her an electric energy.

“In some ways I felt less prepared for taking care of her,” Bright said with a laugh. “She is definitely a bundle of energy in many ways. Carson is the easy one to take care of.”

Bright said Aubrey, now 5, is “extremely outgoing and sweet, but also quite sensitive.” While she knows big brother Carson can’t walk or talk, she loves him and thinks of him as her brother, not someone with special needs.

“Aubrey is my light,” Bright said. “Both of them are such blessings.”

About three years ago, Bright decided to do something most young mothers would never even consider — she began training to compete in a sprint triathlon. The event included a 400-meter swim, 13mile bicycle ride, and 3.1-mile run.

“I fell in love immediately with triathlons and decided to do a few more that same year,” Bright recalled. In fact, she has since done five in one year.

A competitive person by nature, some of the competitions Bright has completed are nothing short of astounding. For example, one event consisted of a 1.2-mile swim and a 56-mile bike ride. She is currently training for her first half-ironman in Key West, Fla., where she will swim 1.2 miles, pedal 56 miles and then run 13.1 miles.

Ashlee Bright balances her athletic training with her role as mother to son Carson and daughter Aubrey.

16

Moments Magazine | January - February 2014

Moments Mom Bright also loves Crossfit, which is exercising in everchanging ways at an extremely high intensity.

“I love the change every day,” she said. “Crossfit never gets boring. I also love the Crossfit community. The community immediately accepts you and everybody is always cheering you on and supporting you.”

Bright also took the Crossfit Kids certification class so she can coach children.

“Even when the kids were babies, I always stayed active,” Bright said. “Even if it was just 10 or 20 minutes.

Now they are in school, so I can train then.”

For Bright, exercise is more than a way to stay in shape, it is a complete stress reliever. “I forget about every problem in the world when I am working out,” she said.

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From the cellar

Organic wines often surprise

Price, taste sure to please For those of us who are trying to be health minded in the new year, eating more organically grown foods is a good way to start.

But what about drinking organic wines? If you’re like me, you may think organic wines are super expensive well, I’m pleased to report that there are numerous organic wines on the market that are actually quite reasonably priced and taste fantastic.

I’m particularly fond of the Bonterra wines from California.

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Moments Magazine | January - February 2014

The grapes are all grown on their certified organic vineyards, and most of them cost less than $15 a bottle.

The cabernet sauvingion (about $12) is the perfect wine for sipping alongside a winter meal of pasta or a slow-cooked roast. It’s full flavored, yet not heavy at all.

I love a good white wine, even in the winter. Bonterra has a terrific chardonnay, but my favorite is their Viognier.

If you’re unfamiliar with Viognier, it’s a white wine grape that requires a long, warm growing season.

Bonterra’s is fruity and refreshing, qualities perfect for sipping with fish or some brie cheese and grapes.

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Most of them cost less than $15 a bottle. The cabernet sauvingion (about $12) is the perfect wine for sipping alongside a winter meal.

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Dinner Matters

Slowing it down Cooker ideal for winter

Winter is the perfect time to dust off the slow cooker and get cooking.

Sure, you may have to take a few minutes in the morning to prep the ingredients and get them into the cooker, but you can go about your day knowing dinner is cooking away and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious, home-cooked dinner later on.

Most dishes made in the slow cooker taste even better the next day, so go ahead and make more than you’ll need for dinner and pack the leftovers for the next day’s lunch.

Here are some tips for getting the most out of a slow cooker: • Never put frozen meat into the slow cooker. Always properly thaw meat and, if the recipe calls for it, sear the meat before adding it to the cooker.

• Try not to remove the lid while cooking. Removing it too often can affect the cooking time.

• Ideally, the contents of the slow cooker should be at least halfway full, or up to an inch or so of the top rim.

• Certain foods, such as fish, tender vegetables or pasta should be added

Greek Chicken with Feta • 2 tablespoons olive oil • 4 to 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs • 2 cups onion, sliced thinly • 3 cloves garlic, minced • Salt and pepper • 2 (14.5 ounce) cans fire roasted tomatoes, with juices • 1 can tomato paste • 1 teaspoon dried oregano • 8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled 20

Moments Magazine | January - February 2014

at the last hour to avoid over-cooking.

• In most slow cookers, cooking on high cooks twice as fast as low.

I never understand why home cooks shy away from using chicken thighs.

They almost never dry out and have much more flavor than chicken breasts.

They have the added bonus of being quite a bit less expensive.

Now you can find them boneless and skinless, which make them the perfect meat for the slow cooker.

– Adlen W. Robinson

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet.

Liberally season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.

Brown chicken on both sides over medium-high heat until golden.

Spray slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.

Add onions and garlic.

Add browned chicken to slow cooker.

In skillet, add tomato paste, stirring until smooth.

Add in tomatoes and oregano.

Bring to a boil, then pour over chicken thighs in slow cooker.

Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.

Arrange feta cheese on top of chicken and then cover and cook another 15 minutes.

Serve over orzo pasta or brown rice.

Orange Teriyaki Chicken • 2 tablespoons canola oil • 4 to 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs • ½ cup soy sauce (preferably Kikkoman) • 3 tablespoons mirin or dry sherry • 3 tablespoons brown sugar • 2 cloves garlic, minced • Zest of 1 orange • Juice from 1 orange • 1 ½ inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated • 2 green onions, sliced Heat oil over medium high heat in a large skillet.

Brown the chicken thighs on both sides.

Remove chicken thighs and place in a slow cooker that has been sprayed with nonstick cooking spray.

In skillet, add soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar and garlic.

Stir to heat and then pour mixture on top of chicken thighs.

Add orange zest, juice, and ginger.

Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.

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21

Frugal Focus

SavingS Strategy Household budget cuts start with food W

hen it comes to cutting your household budget, the single fastest way to make a dent is by cutting food.

If you’re coupon challenged like me, you have to find other strategies to save money.

Here are some things that have worked for our family for the past 20-plus years.

First and foremost, never shop without a list. In order to have a successful shopping trip, you really need to set aside some time to make up your weekly meal plan.

Always start with what you already have. Do you have a package of chicken breasts or pork chops in the freezer? Those need to go on your weekly menu.

Most of us have several pounds of ground beef that are close to having freezer burn. Therefore, something made with ground beef also needs to be on the menu.

Check your pantry. Most of us have plenty of dried pasta, canned tomatoes and the like. That means something in the Italian arena.

And, of course, check your refrigerator — the produce drawers are paramount. The most expensive food items you’ll ever buy are the ones you fail to use and end up throwing away.

If you have just a few of several different vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower and carrots, steam them all until tender and puree to make a “cream-less” cream of vegetable soup. You could also puree them, mix with grated cheese and toss with pasta.

The point is to try to use as much of the food on hand before buying more.

Now that you have some menu options, check the weekly calendar.

Why? Because if three nights this week you’re going to be going at soccer practice, ballet or church, you need to ensure that dinner those nights is quick and simple — or that you have a slow cooker plan.

When our children were young and we sometimes didn’t get home for dinner until after 7 p.m., I always felt like a rock star when something was simmering in the slow cooker.

Sometimes I whipped up some grilled cheese sandwiches or cheese quesadillas to go along with soup or chili.

Even if you don’t clip coupons, you can still save money by getting together the grocery store flyers while making your menu plan and grocery list.

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Moments Magazine | January - February 2014

Grocery stores have “loss leaders,” which are meant to get you into the store so you will spend on other things as well.

Remember, too, that most things go on sale every six weeks or so. That means, if your family eats a lot of chicken breasts, you should stock up when possible.

Now you should have a complete weekly menu plan, and an idea of what store has what you need on sale.

Make your list and remember to try to shop when it is not peak hours, and

certainly never shop when hungry.

It’s always helpful when you don’t have to bring a fussy toddler, but if shopping with young children, have a special snack to keep them occupied.

The only other tip I can offer for saving money on the food bill is to try to limit how much you eat in restaurants.

If you do eat out, try doing so for lunch — when prices are usually less expensive — instead of dinner.

—Adlen W. Robinson

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Fitness

Sneaking exercise into your life Put time, not excuses to use

If you’re like most women, you would like to lose a few pounds and get into better shape.

While diet is a huge component when it comes to weight loss, exercise is an equally essential factor to achieving optimal health.

For most of us, the reason we don’t exercise regularly has to do with one thing: Time.

That said, is it possible to “sneak” exercise into your everyday routine? Yes! Experts say the most consistent exercisers do it first thing in the morning.

If you have young children, that may seem impossible.

When you already get up well before dawn and then have to make breakfast, get children ready for school and prepare for work, how can you possibly find time to exercise?

Try this trick. Set the alarm for just 10 minutes earlier than normal. What difference can 10 minutes make, you ask?

Plenty.

You’ll be amazed at how many sit-ups, squats and stretches you can get in during 10 minutes of power exercising.

The quick blast of movement will wake you up and energize you, even before your first cup of coffee. In fact, you may find you don’t need that caffeine.

If you’re at home during the day, be mindful of the times you’re standing or sitting still and can sneak in some exercise.

For example, do lunges as you walk to the kitchen. If you’re sitting at a desk, hold your abs in to simulate crunches.

If you’re folding clothes, do squats, leg lifts or jumping jacks.

If you work in an office, take advantage of breaks by taking a brisk walk or going up and down the stairs.

Use your lunch hour to take a walk. Maybe even find a walking buddy for maximum accountability.

Try stopping at the park or gym on your way home from work. Even a quick half hour workout will energize you and help you face the busy evening with new gusto.

If you’re a stay-at-home mom, get in on your kids’ play time and interact with them. Throw the ball, play tag or ride bikes — anything to exert some energy.

Take an exercise class you’ve never tried. Our recreation departments offer so many diverse courses and the cost is 24

Moments Magazine | January - February 2014

quite reasonable.

Grab a friend and take a zumba or yoga class. You will have so much fun, you won’t even realize you’re burning calories.

Keep an exercise journal to chronicle the journey.

While you’re at it, use the journal to jot down what you’re eating. It’s amazing how just by writing down what you eat how you tend to hesitate before making unhealthy choices.

Sign up to run/walk in one of the many upcoming 5Ks. Most of these races benefit amazing causes, so not only are you doing something positive for yourself, you’re also helping others.

Set reasonable goals for weekly exercise and then reward yourself.

For example, try to exercise four or five times a week. If you meet that goal, get a new workout outfit or go on a movie/ date night with your spouse or friends.

– Adlen W. Robinson

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Designing Window Treatments for Over 25 Years Moments Magazine | January - February 2014

25

Health

Nutrients

key to new year,you

Integrated approach can lead to success

T

he new year is here. For many people, that means trying to eat more healthfully or, at the very least, make better food choices.

There are so many different diets out there, all espousing low-carb, no-carb, high protein, vegan or vegetarian choices, it’s difficult to form the best plan of action.

My friend, Cheryl Howlin, a local certified integrated nutritionist, said people often are confused about what to do.

“I like the integrated approach because so much of your life has to do with how you approach nutrition,” she explained. “So many things are linked to people being nutrient deficient, and those deficiencies can have longterm consequences.”

Howlin explained that nutrients surround and strengthen our cells. If a cell is strong, it won’t mutate.

“Given the proper environment, your body can heal itself,” she said.

I asked Howlin what people can do immediately to improve their health. Without hesitating, she pointed to hydration.

“Some 90 percent of people are walking around severely dehydrated,” she said.

Another great tip: Eat half of your lunch and save the other half for later in the day when people often have that late afternoon slump.

“Let’s say you were going to have a 700-calorie lunch,” she said. “Just eat half at lunchtime and then the rest at 3 in the afternoon. You are still eating the same amount, but your blood sugar will remain steady and that will keep you from overeating for your evening meal.”

Howlin develops individualized programs for her clients based on their needs and goals.

“Everybody’s situation is unique, so there is no one program,” she explained. “I help people look at 14 areas in their life and we develop a plan together to maximize each area so they can experience the optimal satisfaction.”

– Adlen W. Robinson 26

Moments Magazine | January - February 2014

Contact If you would like a consultation with Cheryl Howlin, a local certified integrated nutritionist, email her at

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Goals for a new year

Community

Plan often is key to success I am the queen of setting new year’s resolutions.

Of course, setting goals is easy. It’s achieving them that’s the hard part.

Here are some strategies for helping you get most out of your resolutions.

• First of all, write them down. Goals that are just swimming around in your head will almost surely go unrealized.

In addition to writing down your goals, come up with a plan for reaching each one of them.

For example, if you want to lose 15 pounds, jot down that goal, plus your game plan for achieving it.

Will you head to the gym three days a week, count your calories or find a friend who will work out with you?

• Do you want to start a business?

What are the steps you need to take?

Talking to someone who has successfully started one is a terrific way to begin. Most people are happy to share their story.

Remember to ask what sorts of things they felt were most helpful and what they would do differently.

• Do you have a basement, attic, or garage that sorely needs cleaning out and organizing? Make a plan.

For big jobs or projects, solicit help

28

Moments Magazine | January - February 2014

from family or friends. Bribery usually works with younger family members, but with friends consider a bartering agreement.

Get a friend to help you clean out your basement, and then you help her organize for an upcoming garage sale.

• Do you have a habit you want to give up? Just remember a habit takes about a month to develop and that same amount of time to kick.

To stay motivated, try journaling about your journey toward reaching the goal.

By writing down your struggles, you will keep your goal at the forefront in your mind and stay focused.

• Children need to have goals too and most of them could use guidance. Have a fun, family meeting where you share some of your goals and ask the children to pick out a few.

Make a chart so everybody has some accountability. The post it in a central location, such as the kitchen, and that way everybody can “check in” and see how their progress is coming.

Armed with your goals and, more importantly, a plan, you are much more likely to achieve success.

Happy goal setting. And, better yet, happy achieving!

— Adlen W. Robinson

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School Spotlight

Get to know your schools

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Moments Magazine | January - February 2014

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Live Better.

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