CAWLM March 2020 Digital Issue

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EASING INTO TRANSITIONS MEEGAN WINTERS HELPS PEOPLE ACCLIMATE TO NEW SURROUNDINGS CRAFTING IN THE KITCHEN MOUTHWATERING NO-BAKE CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER LAYER BARS

DIY & Dreaming

MEET JORDAN FULLER, OWNER OF THE CRAFTY SHACK

MARCH 2020

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TEACHING NUTRITIONAL HEALTH AND SELF-CARE WITH EXPOSURE TO DENTISTRY AS A CAREER — THROUGH — HEALTH-AFFIRMING SCIENCE EXPERIENCES WITH EVERY CHILD AT EVERY VISIT! There is no extra charge—it’s our pleasure to partner with parents to nurture skills, beliefs and behaviors for a lifetime of health.

Dr Susan Maples & Team “ W E ’ R E D E D I C AT E D T O T O TA L H E A LT H

You

D E N T I S T R Y, W H E R E W E F O S T E R O P T I M A L H E A LT H FO R

2 MARCH 2020

. A N D Y O U R E N T I R E FA M I LY ”

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Divorcing? Loss of a loved one?

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ISSUE III • VOLUME XIII PUBLISHER TIFFANY DOWLING EDITOR-IN-CHIEF KELLY MAZURKIEWICZ MANAGING EDITOR MARY GAJDA MEDIA MANAGER JENNIFER HODGES MEDIA SPECIALIST CAREY JARVIS ACCOUNT MANAGERS LIZ RENO-HAYES MEGAN FLEMING ZACK KRIEGER

Growing and “ protecting your wealth is my commitment. ”

COMMUNICATION SPECIALISTS ADAM LANSDELL AMANDA FISCHER CHRISTOPHER NAGY ART DIRECTOR MARK WARNER PUBLICATION DESIGNER LAUREN BRUMBACH GRAPHIC DESIGNERS CHELSEY FREEDMAN CODY FELL LAUREN BRUMBACH MATTHEW MCDANIEL WEB MANAGER KYLE DOWLING CONTRIBUTORS CATHY BLATNIK DEIDRE DAVIS KERRY HART KYLE DOWLING LISA ALLEN-KOST

MELIK BROWN RENEE FRANKLIN SHAHAD ALZAIDAN TEECE ARONIN WHITLEY SEMROW

ADVERTISING INFORMATION (517) 203-3333 Interested in hosting a distribution location?

Give us a call at (517) 203-3333 or email at info@cawlm.com.

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Please call to receive a complimentary Financial Services Consultation and plan.

(517) 333-7775 • cheryl.underwood@opco.com fa.opco.com/cheryl.underwood Cheryl L. Underwood, Executive Director – Investments

Taking care of you, your family, or your business is my number one priority.

For over 20 years I have been simplifying the complex world of retirement plans and wealth management for clients like you, earning the #1 Financial Advisor position for nearly a decade at a Forbes, “Top 100 Wealth Management Firm” with over $400 million assets under administration.

Highly respected, leading global full service brokerage and investment bank with a 135 year history and $80 billion client assets under administration.

Cheryl holds the following industry registrations/licenses: Series 7 Series 63 Series 65 Series 50

Registered General Securities Representative Registered State Securities Agent Registered Investment Advisor Representative Registered Municipal Advisor Representative

Michigan Licensed Insurance Producer: Life, Health, Accident, Property & Casualty

Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle is published monthly

by M3 Group, Lansing, Michigan All rights reserved. © 2020 M3 Group

No part of this magazine may be reproduced whole or in part without the express written consent of the publisher.

Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. | 1400 Abbot Road, Suite 430 | East Lansing, MI 48823 Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. Transacts Business on All Principal Exchanges and Member SIPC 2915539.1 MARCH 2020

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MARCH COVER 12

Jordan Fuller and The Crafty Shack

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Local Lady

27

Recipe

IN THIS ISSUE 5

From the Publisher

6 8

Good News Manners for the Modern-Day Woman

10

Financial Facts

32

My Community

11

Why Music Education Matters

34

Find Your Art

16

Dear Kerry

17

How To Be A Great Mentor

26

Debunking the Myths About Irish Culture

28

Practice Mindful Self-Expression

29 30

HEALTH & HAPPINESS GUIDE 19

Winter Skin Care 101

20

Finding Balance in a Tech-Driven World

4 Ways To Get Your Craft On

21

The Importance of Folic Acid in Women’s Health

Make It Your Own: Finding Your Personal Design Style

22

Build an Effective (And Budget-Friendly) Home Gym

DIY AND DREAMING On the cover: Jordan Fuller | Cover photography by Mary Gajda

4 MARCH 2020

In the February issue, CAWLM identified some photos of the MLK Jr. Day of Celebration as being provided by the MLK Jr. Commission. Those photos were taken by Publicom.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

DIY and I’ve always admired the do-it-yourself spirit because it conjures a mental image of selfsufficiency and determination – the resilience and tenacity ingrained in the DNA of the human condition to see a need and make it happen.

When we hear the term DIY, the immediate thought may turn to home or auto repairs, a person who possesses the quizzical mind to comprehend how something operates and the manual dexterity to go out and fix it.

However, extrapolating the definition of DIY encompasses something much broader and significantly more inclusive on both the small and large scale that comprises everything from personal growth and achievement to the underpinnings of political movements and the building of nations.

Sound too grand? Think about where you live. If you want to boil it down to the barebones basics, the United States was founded by a group of forward-thinkers who saw a better way to do things, and then set out to change it.

Yes, that’s an oversimplification; however,

the DIY spirit has generated significant groundswell in the past. In the late 1970s and early 1980s when certain bands felt shut out of access to major record labels, they decided to start their own labels, record their own music, package their own albums and create their own on-the-fly touring routes crisscrossing the United States to make their music accessible to the masses. That DIY ethos defined the punk rock revolution, which went on to inspire countless I-cando-that-too garage bands and spawned new wave, alternative, grunge and other musical genres.

being aided by an army of knitters, sewers and crochet divas who are funneling their skills as hobbyists toward an astounding and inspirational purpose.

More recently, an unexpected collection of DIY enthusiasts is helping to save a number of species indigenous to a continent’s ecosystem. Taking a skill usually known for creating scarves and sweaters for friends and family, knitters from around the world are crafting handmade pouches, nests and mittens for animals that have been injured or had their natural habitat destroyed by the wildfires that ravaged a significant swath of Australia. From kangaroos and koalas to bats and wallabies, countless animals that have been rescued and relocated are

DIY doesn’t solely serve as a measurement of handiness or craftiness. More often than not, it’s an attitude, a state of being and way of thinking, that can, has and does change lives in our world. ■

Although those are bold examples, most of the pleasure from a DIY project is found on the much smaller scale of personal satisfaction and individual fulfillment that comes from doing something you love and putting passion behind a purpose, which is why we’re dedicating this issue of Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle Magazine to the DIYers and the dreamers among us.

Tiffany Dowling

Publisher

MARCH 2020

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GOOD NEWS WE’D LIKE TO HEAR FROM YOU! Do you have a business or personal milestone announcement relevant to women of Clinton, Eaton and Ingham counties?

Please submit it to info@cawlm.com by the first of the month prior to the issue in which you wish it to be printed. CAWLM reserves the right to edit all submissions for style, grammar and length. We look forward to sharing your good news!

DEMUTH APPOINTED AS SPARROW’S CHIEF OF MEDICAL STAFF Sparrow Hospital has welcomed Dr. Robin DeMuth as its new chief of medical staff for a two-year term.

“My interest in being chief of staff is really about trying to improve our connections with each other, as taking care of patients is such a team sport,” DeMuth said. “One of the things we’ve gotten into talking about at Sparrow is physician wellness and how tied wellness is in terms of people being engaged well with their patients and being their best selves. I think that will be an important focus over the next two years.” ■ Robin DeMuth, Sparrow chief of medical staff

Cathleen Edgerly, Downtown Lansing Inc. executive director; Olivia Ricketts, owner of Soul Nutrition; Mariah Hill, Soul Nutrition employee; Mayor Andy Schor; Christine Zarkovich, Downtown Lansing Inc. board member; and Tom Truscott, Downtown Lansing Inc. committee member

SOUL NUTRITION FEEDS THE SPIRIT IN DOWNTOWN LANSING The Downtown Lansing Inc. Economic Vitality Committee, along with Mayor Andy Schor, officially welcomed Soul Nutrition to downtown Lansing with a ribboncutting Jan. 17.

Soul Nutrition is at 222 S. Washington Square in downtown Lansing and serves healthy shakes, energizing teas and good vibes. ■

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MANNERS FOR THE MODERN-DAY WOMAN TEECE ARONIN

Be More Jim and Less Dwight FIVE TIPS FOR STAYING OFF CO-WORKERS’ NERVES Much like the television show, The Office, one can get on a co-worker’s nerves by being thoughtless. No one wants that to happen to them, so here are five suggestions for being a good colleague at work.

• Don’t microwave smelly foods at work. I once worked with an English lady who microwaved a plateful of kippers at the office. No one could look at fish – or her – for a month. If you must eat something smelly at work, prepare it at home and try to eat in a more secluded area. Better yet, consider enjoying more fragrant things at lunch such as bananas, edible flowers and Earl Grey tea.

• Refrain from sending frou-frou emails.

Emails saying only “Thank you!” or “:)” are ghastly and will win you no friends among the co-workers who find them jamming their email inboxes. On a related note, sending business texts should be limited to one hour prior to the start of the workday and two hours after close of business.

state of mind, including lack of eye contact and vague replies. Above all, don’t gossip.

And always remember, dear hearts, a good day is a well-mannered day. ■

• Use care when eating grape tomatoes. A friend once bit down on one during a business lunch and squirted me right in the eye.

• Don’t be late for meetings. While one should not be late for work ever, being late for meetings disrupts others and can be an even poorer reflection on you. As I always say, “When you’re on time, no one notices; when you’re late, everyone notices.” According to townandcountrymag.com, one should strive for two minutes of advance notice for every minute you expect to be late. So, if you expect to be 10 minutes late, try to give 20 minutes notice. This spares everyone from dashing off to the meeting to learn that the bad news is your late, but the good news is they now have plenty of time to talk about you.

YOURS,

Phyllis

• Don’t be a Chatty Cathy (or a Chatty Charlie). Most of us enjoy a good conversationalist, but no one wants their ears chewed. Try to keep chitchat brief and limited to casual places in the office such as the water cooler or kitchen and watch for clues to your co-worker’s

Teece Aronin is a writer and career coach.

She works with individuals from all walks of life, including people with disabilities and career-changers. Contact her at teecearonin8 @gmail.com, and read her blog, Chipped Demitasse, at chippeddemitasse.blogspot.com.

MEET LIKE A LOCAL Michigan’s Capital City offers unique event space, premium lodging and oneof-a-kind dining and entertainment options all served up in an environment that somehow feels just like home. It’s time to take another look at Greater Lansing, Michigan. When you do, we promise, you’re going to love it like a local.

8 MARCH 2020

LANSING.org #LOVELANSING

LEASING:

ALL YOUR FRIENDS ARE DOING IT, SHOULD YOU?

BY MISTY GAUTZ The concept behind leasing is that you are basically renting the vehicle for 2-3 years. Unlike buying, your monthly payment is not determined by the full purchase cost of the vehicle. It’s nice to have that new car feeling every few years, isn’t it? After a few years, it can be so convenient to just turn the car back in after it starts to age a little. Or, if it’s the perfect car, you may decide to keep it and buy it for the lease-end value. This gives you the chance to decide if this is the vehicle, you’d like to have in the driveway for the next five years, or if it is time to switch to something that fits your needs better.

Leasing generally results in lower maintenance and repair costs, and you are not investing in something that is depreciating in value. Leasing also limits your risk of financial exposure. We all know not to buy a vehicle with an accident reported on its Carfax.

If you happen to have an accident in your leased car, you have it repaired as usual but get to turn it in at the end of the lease. This means you are not taking the financial depreciation of that accident on the value of your vehicle. Also, be aware that if your car is totaled in an accident before the end of your lease, you may be liable for additional costs not covered by your car insurance unless the lease includes gap insurance to cover any deficit. Most

lease companies include this in your lease, so check with them before you sign on a lease. On top of all that, your down payment and monthly payment will probably be less than if you decide to purchase a vehicle.

But Misty, I don’t want to pay all those mileage fees …

When you sign your lease, you have quite a few different options of mileage choices you can selectsometimes even up to 30,000 miles per year. If you make sure your lease is structured correctly you won’t have to worry about unexpected fees in the end.

But Misty, I like to own my cars …

Most of us need to take out an auto loan in order to purchase our vehicles. 83% of Americans have a payment on the car they are driving, and 51% of those people trade in their cars before they are paid off. This means they could end up in a situation where they owe much more on their car than what it is worth, so they’re stuck with it. Leasing helps you avoid this by only paying for what you’re driving.

But Misty, I don’t want to worry about a big bill for damages at the end of my lease …

Yes, you are responsible for any excess wear and tear charges at the end of your lease. But most manufacturers have a generous policy for what is considered normal wear and tear. So that little scratch from your kid’s bike or that small coffee stain on the seat won’t affect you. If you are still concerned, all manufacturers offer a protection plan that will waive wear and tear charges, usually up to $5,000 in damages.

Most experts agree that the cost of buying and leasing is about the same for the first few years. There won’t be many repair costs and the various fees and insurance costs come out to about the same. The difference starts after the new car is paid off. Will you have your car for a few years after your average six year car loan is paid off? If so, it typically makes sense to buy the car rather than lease. Check with car review publications to make sure that the car you want will last beyond the years for which you’re financing it. If not, leasing would be the best choice for you.

Buying versus leasing is not exactly a black and white decision. Both leasing and buying have their advantages and disadvantages, just like renting versus buying a house.

THANK YOU Lexus of Lansing’s first ever Women Empowering Women event was a huge success.

We want to thank everyone for coming and making it such a fun night! We look forward to continuing to build relationships with the wonderful women in the Lansing community. Keep an eye out for our next event coming this summer.

MARCH 2020

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FINANCIAL FACTS

BY DEIDRE DAVIS

HOW TO FIND THE BEST MORTGAGE LENDER FOR YOU When you are looking to buy a home, there are many factors to consider. You’ll want to identify

the type of home you want, then research to find a mortgage with the lowest interest rate and the best terms. Locking in a low interest rate is important, but the lender you choose also will affect your mortgage experience.

According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, nearly half of consumers don’t shop around before choosing a mortgage lender. It makes sense to take time to look for the best deal but also to determine who will be the best lender for you. Here are some tips for choosing one: Find the best lender for you

There are many types of lenders, including local and retail banks, credit unions, and online mortgage lenders. Look for a lender who is upfront about all loan costs, including fees. You also may want to consider convenient ways to apply for, make payments to and keep track of your loan.

Many lenders have online account management systems and mobile apps that can simplify the mortgage loan process.

Ask for a referral

Ask friends and family which lenders they have used for their mortgages. Be specific when asking about the terms and service they received. If

they have had good experiences, check out those lenders to see if they meet your criteria.

Know your preferred lender’s reputation

Once you select two or three lenders for final consideration, review their credentials by visiting these websites: • The Nationwide Multistate Licensing System Registry at nationwidelicensingsystem.org to ensure your lender is licensed and in good standing in your state.

• The Better Business Bureau at bbb.org to see the lender’s rating.

• The National Association of Mortgage Brokers at namb.org.

needs. For example, our First-Time Home Buyer’s Program allows qualified members to lock in an interest rate for 90 days and offers down payments as low as 3%, flexible terms ranging from 10 to 30 years, variable or fixed-rate mortgages and more.

Members can also apply for and manage their mortgage loans through our MSUFCU Mobile app.

Finding a trusted lender will help you to purchase the home you want, secure preferable loan terms, and enjoy a seamless home buying experience. ■ Deidre Davis is the chief marketing officer at MSU Federal Credit Union. MSUFCU’s headquarters are at 3777 West Road, East Lansing, MI 48823. Contact Davis at deidre.davis@msufcu.org or (517) 664-7877.

Research loan options and rates

When you apply for a mortgage, lenders will evaluate your financial situation, including your ability to repay a home loan. Take some time to put your finances in order so it is easy for lenders to review your history. As you begin to work with a few lenders, ask about their mortgage products, fees and the timeline for the loan process. This will help you evaluate the whole loan process.

Michigan State University Federal Credit Union has mortgage products for all types of member

March is Reading Month Come in and meet some favorite book characters including Pete the Cat, Esteban the Pea Green Crayon, Cookie Mouse and more!

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WHY MUSIC EDUCATION MATTERS

COURTESY OF MCC

The benefits of music education extend far beyond getting kids to tap their toes, sing intune and hum the melody to “Do Re Mi.”

Studies show having a robust music program in schools can aid your little one in his or her emotional and cognitive growth. The National Association for Music Education lists the following benefits among the many reasons to support music education in schools.

Language Skills Studies show that music training contributes to the physical development of the part of the left side of the brain associated with processing language. A 2005 study from researchers at Stanford University found that mastering a musical instrument may also improve reading skills, which can benefit students both inside and outside the classroom.

Hand-Eye Coordination Studies have linked long-term music training to improved hand-eye coordination. This is likely connected to the motor skills children develop when playing musical instruments. Without those instruments, those motor skills may not develop as strongly.

Concentration Even students who cannot play a musical instrument can still benefit academically from simply listening to music. In 2007, a research team from the Stanford University School of Medicine found that music engages the areas of the brain involved with paying attention. Today’s students deal with numerous distractions, from smartphones to tablets to social media, but those who routinely listen to certain types of music might find it easier to block out those distractions and focus on their work.

children who were not given piano lessons during the same period. Neither group had participated in formal music instruction before the study, and students in both groups reported similar levels of self-esteem prior to participating in the study.

If your child’s school lacks funding for music education, seek out local options for independent music teachers or after-school programs. ■

Emotional Development A 2003 study commissioned by Chorus America found musicians are more likely than the average person to be involved in charity work as volunteers and donors. The National Association for Music Education also noted that music students may be more likely to exhibit empathy toward other cultures.

Self-Esteem In a study examining 117 fourth grade students attending public school in Montreal, a researcher at the University of Texas at Austin found that children who received piano lessons weekly for three years had higher self-esteem than

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Call me today at 517.253.8563 With 19 years of experience serving successful women and their families in the Lansing area, Stephanie uses her comprehensive approach to financial planning to provide advice for women who want to be empowered and informed as they make complex decisions about their future.

for a complimentary initial consultation.

As the only Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA™) in Lansing*, she believes that freedom and independence are core values of successful women, regardless of marital status.

Stephanie Milosavlevski

CFP®, CDFATM Financial Advisor 2139 Commons Parkway Okemos, MI 48864 • 517.253.8563 stephanie.j.milosavlevski@ampf.com ameripriseadvisors.com/stephanie.j.milosavlevski

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*Source: Institute for Divorce Financial Analysts (IDFATM). The initial consultation provides an overview of financial planning concepts. You will not receive written analysis and/or recommendations. Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2019 Ameriprise Financial, Inc., All rights reserved. 2681174ACMR0819 MARCH 2020

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12 MARCH 2020

Good Girl Radio and Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle Magazine have partnered to feature our cover person throughout 2020 in an on-camera interview with Good Girl Radio! Tune in the second Thursday of every month to hear more from these amazing people.

Photo by Matt McDaniel

COVER STORY

ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE THE CRAFTY SHACK PROVIDES A GETAWAY

BY CHRISTOPHER NAGY

Have craft, will travel?

If the answer is yes, then a local business has the ideal brief getaway for hobbyists of any creative pursuit. Nestled on M-52 between Williamston and Webberville, The Crafty Shack has been providing group retreats for artists and crafters for more than three years. The business is the brainchild of owner/operator Jordan Fuller, who opened The Crafty Shack in her former residence in January 2017.

Whether the guests are those who sew, paint, scrapbook, knit, quilt, Cricut or are jills-of-alltrades and do all of the above, The Crafty Shack is equipped with all the amenities needed for a three- or four-day visit.

“Some people just come and drink wine and watch Netflix,” Fuller said. “They bring anything they want to work on. I just supply the home.”

Although, it’s worth noting that home is fully stocked. The two full kitchens are supplied with bakeware, cookware, crockpots, pots and pans, utensils, a hand mixer, glassware, paper products, and a coffee maker and Keurig. The home is equipped with WiFi and cable, and it features three bedrooms on the ground floor with eight twin beds. Fuller provides the linens, towels, wash cloths, bath gel, lotion, shampoo, a hair dryer, and an iron and ironing board.

“When my kids were little, that’s what saved my sanity,” she said with a laugh.

Typically the group would stay at a bed-andbreakfast or at a friend’s cabin in the woods; however, they eventually came across several spots dedicated solely to crafters like them.

You’re in the middle of all these things. There’s really nothing around like it.

“I secretly thought about how fun it would be to own something like that someday,” she said.

When Fuller and her husband began to consider selling their home of 14 years and moving across the road into the family farmhouse, the couple began to take stock of what they had with their home. Fuller said because it sits between I-69 and I-96, is nearby dining options in Williamston and Webberville, is a short drive to East Lansing and the state capital, and has several neighboring wedding venues such as RaOna Acres, it was an ideal opportunity to turn Fuller’s secret dream into a reality.

“You’re in the middle of all these things,” she said. “There’s really nothing around like it.”

Fuller repurposed furniture and spruced up the home with her own style of interesting art and furnishings, such as the 1950s-era refrigerator that has been repainted a bright red and now holds glassware and other items.

“I wanted a unique décor,” she said. “I would describe it as eclectic and quirky and vintage.”

The initial plan was to slowly build up the clientele over the years; however, things didn’t go according to plan. In fact, they went much better than the plan, and the success of The Crafty Shack took off immediately. Her first guests were scrapbookers, but clients have included crafter groups of all kinds and all mediums – including the medium of yard work.

“I had one group of girls who were making this art from twigs and leaves and stones they were finding in the front yard,” Fuller said. “I saw them out there and had to stop to see what they were doing. It was mixed media.”

It hasn’t only been crafters either. The Crafty Shack has hosted sorority retreats, wedding parties, Michigan State University sports spectators and more. It’s even hosted a statewide men’s knitting group.

However, it’s the walk-out basement that gets the attention of many artisans. While it features living room and a full kitchen with an enormous standalone island, it also has eight 6-foot tables and comfortable office chairs – plenty of room for crafters to spread out their wares and get down to business.

“People seem to love the walk-out basement and the fact that they can back up right to the door and wheel in their supplies,” Fuller said.

The idea for The Crafty Shack was roughly two decades in the making. Fuller, who has five children and was a day care provider for 18 years, used to go on weekend crafting retreats with family and friends several times annually. (left) Jordan Fuller repurposed furniture and spruced up The Crafty Shack with her own style of interesting art and furnishings, such as the 1950s-era refrigerator that has been repainted a bright red and now holds glassware and other items. She described the décor as “eclectic and quirky and vintage.” (right) Although the crafting area of The Crafty Shack is the main draw, the residence features all the amenities of home, including two living rooms with cable and WiFi, two fully supplied kitchens and several sleeping areas.

MARCH 2020

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COVER STORY

BY CHRISTOPHER NAGY

“It’s perfect for anyone who is just looking for a quaint and cozy getaway,” Fuller said.

The Crafty Shack has become such a popular destination that Fuller and her husband are expanding. The couple recently purchased the former United Methodist Church property in downtown Webberville and are in the process of renovating the facility to host parties of up to 17 people. Fuller said the building will likely be done in phases, but the first portion could be hosting craft retreats as early as this year.

“When I started The Crafty Shack, I thought this would be something where if I could get it growing a little bit every year, everything would work out,” Fuller said. “I never realized how popular it would become. People love it.”

The Crafty Shack is at 5036 M-52 in Locke Township. Rates for The Crafty Shack are $100 per person with a minimum four-person reservation. Weekend retreats run from noon Friday through 3 p.m. Sunday. Thursday night can be added for an additional $25. Weekday retreats run from noon Monday through 3 p.m.

Thursday. For availability and other information, visit thecraftyshackllc.com.■ (above) The Crafty Shack features three bedrooms on the ground floor with eight twin beds to accommodate groups of crafters for three- or four-day stays. (below) The two full kitchens at The Crafty Shack are supplied with bakeware, cookware, crockpots, pots and pans, utensils, a hand mixer, glassware, paper products, and a coffee maker and Keurig.

14 MARCH 2020

Christopher Nagy is a graduate of Eastern Michigan University and has more than 20 years of experience in journalism. He rarely misses a Motor City Comic Con or Michigan Renaissance Festival.

Healthy Inside and Outside Gita Mahabir is a dedicated licensed professional esthetician and counselor who has been practicing since 2001.

Dear Gita, I am so confused about what to do with my skin care. Please help me cut the clutter from online blogs, department stores, beauty ads, etc. and tell me what is the No. 1 thing I should be doing?

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Prevention: Sun Protection

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WE LOVE LANSING! For more than 80 years, CASE Credit Union has supported the Greater Lansing region through superior financial service and an unwavering commitment to strengthening our community.

To become a member, stop in, call 517.393.7710 or visit casecu.org today!

Our service. Your success. casecu.org • Federally Insured by NCUA Equal Opportunity Lender MARCH 2020

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DEAR KERRY

DEAR KERRY, I have a teenage daughter and my new husband has a young daughter, as well. He is a wonderful stepdad to my daughter, but I just can’t seem to connect to his daughter. I’m not trying to replace her mother, but I do want to have a great relationship with her. How can I build her trust?

Building the relationship with your stepchildren can be one of the most difficult parts of establishing the dynamic for your blended family, so be sure to take it slow. Allow your stepchild to establish the pace of bonding. Teens can be tough eggs to crack as it is, and she may have some feelings about you or your role in her life that she has not shared with you yet. Be there for her just as another supportive adult in her life, and let her learn to trust you over time. She already has two parents, a third should just be a bonus.

Picture yourself in her shoes. Stepchildren do not get a choice in a lot of decisions made for their homelife. Their parents are separating and finding new partners, and they may not know the parameters of the custody schedule. None of those things tend to be up to them, which can be frustrating for anyone.

Start by exploring some of her interests and pursue something in which you might also naturally be interested. Allow the relationship to grow organically to give yourselves an authentic foundation for a relationship.

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Let the biological parents do the discipline; you are there for support, guidance and – if you are lucky – fun dish and secrets. As your relationship grows and time goes on, the trust will naturally grow. Keep in mind that trust is earned, not given. Depending on what has happened in this girl’s past, she may be slow to trust – and that is something that would not necessarily be about you.

Be real, and encourage the same from your stepchildren. Kids tend to not get enough credit, but they pick up on quite a bit. They will be able to tell if you are not being real with them, so skip the feelings of distrust and offer them the same respect and openness you would hope to receive. Don’t bother to pretend to be something you’re not, and encourage the same kind of openness from them. Eventually, you will look up one day and realize the trust in your relationship would not have been able to grow in any other way. ■ Kerry Hart is a couple and family therapist with a private practice in East Lansing.

The only thing she loves more than saving relationships is writing about them. See more of her musings at kerryhartcounseling.com.

HOW TO BE A GREAT MENTOR

COURTESY OF MCC

Mentors can have profound impacts on the lives of the people they mentor. A mentor is often a source of wisdom and support over the course of months or even years. The relationship between mentor and mentee can endure as long as each person desires.

Serving as a mentor can be rewarding. Certain traits and practices set mentors apart. Those who want to be mentors can follow these tips.

Emphasize learning Mentors realize that continuing education is vital to success. Good mentors tend to be lifelong learners who share the lessons they’ve learned with the people they mentor. Even though they may not always be experts, mentors try to be as informed as possible on topics that relate to the mentorship.

Set expectations It is one thing to provide support, but mentors also should inspire their mentees to work hard. Once mentees cite their goals, good mentors will share their own expectations and goals for their mentees, even going so far as to offer advice as to how to achieve those goals.

Be a good and active listener Mentors help mentees navigate the tricky waters of life but will not solve all problems. Mentors need to listen to what mentees say, meaning Honesty, listening skills, good listening a life-long desire to learn, Deliver honest skills are an and the ability to mesh with feedback essential trait Good mentors a mentee are all qualities for prospective will not sugarcoat of solid mentors. mentors. After feedback in order listening, mentors to stay in their can provide a mentee’s good graces. A mentor host of solutions, though ultimately it should aspire to be both a critic and is up to the mentee to find his or her a coach. Even though mentees may own path. want to garner praise, mentors know it is important to say what others may Meld with the mentee not be willing to say. With the right Mentors and their mentees need to feedback, mentees can flourish. be close and compatible. A good mentor will not try to manipulate or Honesty, listening skills, a lifelong influence decisions, but realize that desire to learn, and the ability to support and guidance are the best mesh with a mentee are all qualities ways to get messages across. Asking of solid mentors. ■ a lot of questions and truly getting to know the mentee can set a strong foundation for the relationship.

COMPANION LIVING IS NOT JUST AN APARTMENT OPTION.

It’s the perfect combination of friendship, safety and home.

• Seniors have always had a companion to share life with: a parent, sibling, roommate, spouse. Studies have shown the need of social interaction is critical to seniors’ well-being.

• Companion Living provides more frequent • As well as providing companionship for your loved one, family members may also establish relationships with one another.

• Helps support programming by companions encouraging each other for engagement in activities.

• Companion Living provides not only a sense of friendship, but security and reassurance.

“ •

Mom is thriving with her new roommate and companion.

It amazes me how Jane (her roommate) worries when it appears that Mom is going to leave with me. She is so quick to tell me all the positives about their relationship.

I enjoy seeing how important they are to each other.

— Daughter of Resident

”

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MARCH 2020

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HEALTH &HAPPINESS

18 MARCH 2020

HEALTH &HAPPINESS

WINTER SKIN CARE 101

COURTESY OF FAMILY FEATURES

Cold weather can take a real toll on your skin. Dry skin can lead to discomfort and, if neglected, can affect your skin’s elasticity and trigger outbreaks of irritated skin.

Help keep your skin feeling healthy and hydrated this winter with these tips: Drink water. Hydrating your body from the inside out plays an important role in keeping skin supple and soft. When you’re dehydrated, the body pulls water from any source it can, including your skin. A good rule of thumb is at least eight cups of water a day.

Hydrate with food. You can also boost your internal water reserves by eating foods rich in water, nutrients, vitamins ,and beneficial fats and oils. Fish, nuts and avocados all contain plenty of essential nutrients that help promote wellhydrated skin. Foods like cucumber, zucchini, lettuce and watermelon also naturally have a high concentration of water.

Use body lotion. Your skin naturally loses moisture throughout the day through evaporation, but you can help trap the hydration you add from bathing by adding a layer of quality lotion. An option like Remedy Dermatology Series Moisturizing Body Lotion contains a proprietary botanical blend of nutrients, emollients and antioxidants, including green tea, clove and safflower oleosomes. Its smooth, rich formula absorbs quickly, leaving skin feeling soft with no greasy or oily residue.

Formulated by skin care experts, the lotion helps skin stay moisturized for up to 24 hours and is free of 80 of the most common allergens that contribute to rashes and skin sensitivity. Learn more at remedyderm.com.

Protect skin. Exposure to harsh weather can quickly dry and chap your skin, so any time you’ll be outdoors, especially for extended periods of time, be sure to cover up exposed areas. Keep an extra set of gloves and a scarf in your vehicle so you’re prepared for unexpected time outdoors, whether from an accident or impromptu stop at a local park for some fresh air and exercise.

Change out of wet clothes. Always remove wet clothes as soon as possible. Not only do cold, wet clothes affect your body’s ability to regulate internal temperature, they can create friction that leads to uncomfortable and painful skin irritation.

If getting wet is unavoidable, consider layering your clothing so you can shed wet outer layers quickly before they can soak through.

Use a humidifier. The indoor climate becomes considerably drier in the winter months when the furnace runs regularly. Using a humidifier can help restore a level of humidity that’s better for your skin. Aim for humidity levels in the range of 35-50%; depending on your climate, you may need to err on the lower side of the scale to reduce condensation on windows.

Lotion Dos and Don’ts • Do use lotion, even when your skin doesn’t feel dry. Experts say you should apply moisturizer onto damp skin to help lock in any water sitting on the surface before it evaporates.

• Don’t use too much. Quality moisturizers are highly concentrated and designed to be effective without a thick layer. If you use too much, it’s more likely to sit on the surface of your skin, occlude the surface and potentially trigger breakouts.

• Do look for products that match your skin type. While there are common allergens that are present in many lotions, an option like Remedy Dermatology Series Moisturizing Body Lotion is free of parabens, fragrances and aloe that can irritate sensitive skin or allergies.

Wear sunscreen. Winter sun rays are just as strong as summer rays, even if you don’t feel their heat quite as much. In fact, snow burns that result from sun reflecting off the snow can be even more dangerous than regular sunburns.

Protect your skin from burning and drying out by using sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 any time you venture outdoors. ■

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HEALTH &HAPPINESS

FINDING BALANCE IN A TECH-DRIVEN WORLD COURTESY OF MCC

Technology has changed the world, but it doesn’t have to consume people’s daily lives.

With some mindfulness, individuals can find the right balance.

and 50 minutes for children 8 years old and younger.

Technology also has blurred the lines that distinguish work and personal time. Gone are the days of leaving the office behind when the workday ends in early evening.

Today’s workers can take work home, work remotely and even check work emails or put in some hours while on vacation. Children, too, can pay a price as a result of engaging with technology. For example, various studies indicate more than half of adolescents and teens have been bullied online.

It is impossible to dispute the many ways technology has positively affected the world. Tech has made interacting and collaborating with people from all corners of the planet as convenient as conversing with a next door neighbor. Technology also has changed the face of education, making it possible for students from all walks of life to easily access a wealth of information at Tech has changed the click of a button.

the world, but it doesn’t have to consume people’s daily lives.

For all of its many attributes, technology has its drawbacks, as well. One of the notable detriments is the “always on” reality of tech, as well as the ability to become addicted to such instant gratification. Few adults and children can spend more than a few minutes without checking their devices.

According to a report in the Daily Telegraph, on average people are online 24 hours a week, twice as long as 10 years ago. One in five adults spends as much as 40 hours a week online. According to Common Sense Media, teens spend an average of nine hours a day online, compared to about six hours for kids between the ages of 8 and 12

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These tips may help adults and children regain control and find balance in a techdriven world.

• Set strict usage times.

According to Net Nanny, a technology and internet watchdog site, being plugged into devices, on an almost continual basis, directly affects the brain by keeping it in a state of constant stimulation. This can make it difficult for the brain to get the downtime it needs to recharge.

Limit hours of screen time, and wind down at least an hour or so before bed.

• Put devices on silent. If you or your children cannot resist the lure of devices, set them on silent or put them out of sight and out of reach at key times during the day.

• Beef up in-person socialization. Instead of texting or emailing, speak with friends, family and co-workers in person.

• Increase exercise. Time spent outdoors away from computers or other devices can be beneficial to the mind and body.

• Find alternative solutions. Rather than running an internet search every time you have a question, look up answers in a book, travel to learn about new things, experience new hobbies and immerse yourself in the physical world with renewed vigor.

Tech has changed the world, but it doesn’t have to consume people’s daily lives. With some mindfulness, individuals can find the right balance. ■

HEALTH &HAPPINESS

THE IMPORTANCE OF FOLIC ACID IN WOMEN’S HEALTH COURTESY OF MCC

Folic acid is a B vitamin that is responsible for helping maintain normal growth and development in the body. The Centers for Disease Control and

conceive. Opt for multivitamins or prenatal vitamins that contain folic acid.

The March of Dimes said that women at high risk for Prevention said that folic acid is necessary for helping to NTDs should take 4,000 mcg of folic acid each day to produce new cells and can be essential in the development help prevent an NTD. Begin three months before trying of cells that are made each day, such to get pregnant as the skin, hair and nails. It also and continue helps the body make red blood cells through the Where folic acid shines the that carry oxygen from the lungs to first 12 weeks brightest is in the prevention of all parts of the body, according to the of pregnancy. key birth defects of the brain March of Dimes.

Women who and spine known as neural tube are at high risk defects, or NTDs. Where folic acid shines the brightest include those is in the prevention of key birth with a previous defects of the brain and spine known as neural tube pregnancy with an NTD. Prospective parents who had an defects, or NTDs. NTDs develop during the first NTD also are at an elevated risk. month of pregnancy when the embryo is under rapid development — a period when many women may not Folate also can be found in many fortified foods, such as even know they are pregnant. Some studies also show that breads, pastas, rices and breakfast cereals, and can even folic acid may help prevent heart defects in a baby and be found naturally in other foods. These include peanuts, cleft lip and palate disorders. citrus fruits, asparagus, leafy green vegetables and many beans. Foods also can be used to boost folic acid in Women of childbearing age are urged to take at least 400 the body. mcg of folic acid each day, according to the CDC. Doing so ensures the body has enough residual folate available WebMD said folic acid has also been linked to reduced to promote proper baby development should a woman risk of stroke, some types of cancers, Alzheimer’s disease, become pregnant. Many obstetricians recommend that heart disease, and preeclampsia. So it is important to take if a woman is planning to become pregnant, she should it een if you are a man or a woman who is not planning begin taking folic acid a month or two before trying to to become pregnant. ■

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HEALTH &HAPPINESS

BUILD AN EFFECTIVE (AND BUDGET-FRIENDLY) HOME GYM Physical fitness is important. Exercise guidelines

depend on the individual, but the American Heart Association recommends adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity every week. That amount may need to be increased to meet specific goals, such as weight loss.

In order to meet their fitness goals, many people invest in home gyms. Home gyms can be a convenient way to maximize physical activity and help people maintain muscle mass. According to Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, a Harvard-affiliated medical center, staying fit can improve physical strength, reduce seniors’ fear of falls, increase confidence and improve sleep.

When setting up a home gym, people may be tempted to invest a fortune into their equipment. But such investments aren’t entirely necessary. Here are some ways to have a functional, budget-friendly workout space in your home.

• Invest in elastic resistance bands. Invest in lightweight elastic bands. According to a study published in 2018 in the Journal of Sports Science & Medicine, such bands can improve strength just as effectively as many weight machines commonly found in gyms. Resistance bands don’t take up much space and can be tucked out of sight when not in use.

• Dedicate a workout space. Many people find that areas away from the bustle of the household are great spaces to devote to home gyms. Include a full-length mirror that lets you make sure you’re performing exercises correctly and invest in a stereo to pump in inspirational music. The fewer the distractions, the more likely you will commit to your exercise regimen.

• Invest in a set of dumbbells. Adjustable dumbbells or a few of various weights are a good investment. Dumbbells are compact and can be used to perform a variety of strength-training exercises.

Begin with light weights and work your way up to reduce your risk of injury.

• Try stability balls. Stability balls are used to perform various core exercises, according to Harvard Medical School. The body’s core can be strengthened to improve balance, reduce back pain and more.

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Stability balls also can be used to perform abdominal crunches, squats, hamstring curls, and body bridges.

Balls also can double as a bench when working with dumbbells.

• Don’t forget about cardio. Elliptical machines, stationary bikes and treadmills are effective, but there

COURTESY OF MCC

are other ways to get your daily dose of cardiovascular exercise. Lateral shuffles between two points on a gym floor, or setting up a circuit of jumping jacks or skipping rope can keep your heart rate up and improve health.

Home gyms can help people get and stay in shape. ■

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LOCAL LADY

KYLE DOWLING

EASING INTO TRANSITIONS

MEEGAN WINTERS HELPS PEOPLE ACCLIMATE TO NEW SURROUNDINGS Meegan Winters was a special education teacher in Jackson for many years. She taught students on the autism spectrum, which gave her a special insight into the challenges people with special sensory needs face.

After working for her last three years as an assistant principal, she left education to start Able Eyes. Able Eyes is a nonprofit organization that provides virtual tours of public areas and buildings to spectrumdisorder and other special-needs clients.

Winters said the organization’s purpose is to provide an experiential accessibility tool for people to explore an environment prior to physically visiting. She said that over her years in special education, she recognized the unique challenges for her spectrumdisorder students on field trips. She explained that they found transitions to be difficult. To prepare them, she would take pictures and read books to set expectations. Every field trip took a great deal of planning and work.

“Through my experience, both as a teacher and an administrator, I identified a need to be filled,” said Winters. “There are so many families that have children with either physical disabilities or children with anxiety, or that are on the spectrum with difficulty with transitions to new places. And so many of those families are feeling uncomfortable or are missing the opportunity to going out to the community.”

“Things like doctor’s offices, parks, schools and travel destinations are great places for virtual tours.

Really anything that’s open to the public is a great candidate for Able Eyes. The website is easy — enter in your ZIP Code and view the top virtual tours in your area.”

Through my experience, both as a teacher and an administrator, I identified a need to be filled.

The organization and its site tools allow people to explore new spaces from the comfort of their own homes, whether it’s a far away destination or something around the corner. Able Eyes’ site indexes a variety of locations people may want to visit by category to make the user experience even easier. For example, searching for family friendly options will show results like Impression 5 Science Center and the Lansing Art Gallery.

“The idea is to have a tool for someone to virtually explore a space prior to physically visiting from the comfort of their own home,” said Winters. “If they want to look at it one time, or 20 times or 50 times before visiting, they have a chance to see what that space looks like.”

Winters explained that simple things that we take for granted, like going to a new restaurant or grocery shopping, can be super challenging. When she learned about virtual tours, she said she was

Businesses also can request adding a tour to Able Eyes’ services. They also can add the virtual tour of their space to the website. People can also request locations to add to the tours via the website or email.

immediately struck with the potential the technology offered people to overcome these possible challenges.

“Through this journey, we have grown fast,” said Winters. “We have a folder full of testimonials of

24 MARCH 2020

Photo by Matt McDaniel

people saying that this has changed their lives. Our tours are now in 40 states. So, it’s really something that’s taking off on a national scale.”

When a business has an Able Eyes online tour, it is given a decal to place on its door. The business is considered Able Eyes accessible or Able Eyes recommended.

“Another important part of my story is that one of my best friends was a wheelchair user,” Winters said. “She had muscular dystrophy and passed away five years ago as a result of her disability and degenerative muscular disease. We had an amazing experience and didn’t ever feel like we were held back, but there were a lot of extra challenges.”

Winters explained that there was a need to research places before they could go there to make sure they could accommodate her wheelchair. Whether it was knowing if a restaurant had large enough stalls or a place near a tailgate with a public restroom — people with a variety of special needs and disabilities need tools to plan differently so they can make the most of their experiences.

“My best friend is still a huge part of this journey for me,” said Winters. “I truly believe that she’s on this journey with me. I just know that everything that I’m doing is something that could have helped her experience more things in life — and that it is doing a lot for so many now.” ■ Kyle Dowling is an employee of M3 Group and is pursuing a writing degree at MSU. He enjoys fiction writing, video games and movies.

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DEBUNKING MYTHS ABOUT IRISH CULTURE

COURTESY OF MCC

Ireland garners significant attention each March when people across the globe don green garb and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.

The day pays homage to the patron saint of Ireland and has become a day of celebration for people from all walks of life.

While St. Patrick’s Day celebrations are all about fun, festivities may foster some misconceptions about Ireland and Irish culture. Debunking some of those myths may give people an even greater appreciation of the Emerald Isle.

3. Ireland is not a part of the United Kingdom.

Many people mistakenly believe that Ireland is part of the United Kingdom. However, this hasn’t been true since the conclusion of the Irish War of Independence. in 1921. The six counties known as Northern Ireland are still part of the UK, but the remainder of the island makes up the Republic of Ireland.

1. The Irish are not enamored with leprechauns.

Come St. Patrick’s Day, leprechauns are purported to be mischief-makers who can rev up the fun. But within Ireland, the only places you’re liable to find leprechauns is in tourist gift shops. In fact, while the origins of leprechauns may date back to ancient Ireland, many people now believe the image of the fighting, illtempered leprechaun is offensive to the Irish people.

4. Ireland residents’ wardrobes are not exclusively green. Known as the Emerald Isle for its awe-inspiring green countryside, Ireland has long been associated with the color green. As a result, St. Patrick’s Day celebrants often wear green clothing on March 17.

But the people of Ireland have more diverse sartorial tastes and are just as likely to wear various colors as they are to wear green.

2. Ireland is a world economic power. Ireland is one of the richest nations in the European Union. The

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26 MARCH 2020

World Atlas ranks Ireland as the third richest country by GDP. Tourism and the beverage industry help solidify this ranking.

RECIPE

There’s a lot of reasons to bake this spring. Whether you’re making snacks for your children’s baseball team, making dessert for Easter dinner or if you just need a delicious treat after a long day at work, these chocolate peanut butter bars are quick, easy and will hit the spot.

NO-BAKE CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER BARS INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

CRUST 2 cups of plain graham crackers, finely crushed 11 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted 5 tablespoons of white sugar

1. Spray a 9-by-13-inch pan with nonstick spray and set aside. Preheat oven to 350

SECOND LAYER 8-ounce package of cream cheese, softened 2/3 cup of creamy peanut butter 2 cups of powdered sugar 1 cup of whipping cream

3. Remove from the oven and let cool. When the crust is completely cool, start making

THIRD LAYER 3.5-ounce package of instant vanilla pudding 3.9-ounce package of instant chocolate pudding 3 cups of milk

cups of milk. Whisk for 2 minutes. Spread on top of the second layer.

degrees.

2. Place the graham crackers, butter and sugar in a small bowl and combine well with a large spoon. Press the crust mixture evenly into the pan with your hands or the back of the spoon and bake for 15 minutes. the second layer.

4. Put the cream cheese, peanut butter, powdered sugar and whipping cream in a

medium bowl and blend with an electric mixer or whisk. Beat the mixture until smooth and creamy. Spread evenly on top of the crust.

5. In a small bowl, put in the vanilla and chocolate pudding mixes, and then add the 3 6. For the fourth layer, spread the entire container of whipped topping evenly and then sprinkle the chopped miniature peanut butter cups on top.

7. Chill for a minimum of 6 hours. Keep covered for up to three days in the fridge. ■

FOURTH LAYER 8-ounce container of whipped topping, thawed 1 cup of miniature peanut butter cups, chopped

Cathy Blatnik grew up in Maryland, but has lived in Michigan for almost 17 years with her family, which includes her husband, adult stepson, adult daughter and a son in high school. She has been baking and cooking for as long as she can remember in Cathy’s “Kitchen.”

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DIY

PRACTICE MINDFUL

BY SHAHAD ALZAIDAN

Self -Expression

In a world full of carefully curated social media images, we can easily fall into the trap of thinking everyone else has it all figured out. These images represent a skewed reality, in which the chaos of real life resides just outside of the frame. Knowing that everyone has a messy story reminds us that we, too, can be brave enough to show our true selves to the world.

much faster than your mind will catch on. Do you notice that? Even at this very moment, do you notice what your shoulders are doing? This awareness of the present moment, without judgment, is the practice of mindfulness. While my mind still had its hesitations, the relaxing of my physical body confirmed that starting over was the right choice to make.

Self-Expression: Beyond the Illusion

The Mind

Writing was my solace in a world suddenly ripped by tremendous loss and grief. When presented with the exciting opportunity to write for this column, I leapt at the chance. My heart wants to tell you that a symphony of characters naturally spilled out of me, landing on the page in perfect composition.

The reality? It was a choppy mess. Feeling defeated, I succumbed to the deadline looming over me and disappointedly submitted the article I initially wrote.

The irony wasn’t lost on me that I couldn’t adequately express myself while writing about self-expression. I had placed a massive amount of expectation on this debut article, with persistent thoughts on what it should look like and how it would be received. The truth remains that when we become so wrapped up in the thoughts of others, even unintentionally, our authentic selves become lost. I could not hear my genuine voice in that first draft, so I chose to begin again.

Then it happened.

The Body My shoulders dropped, my breathing became fuller, and my heart calmed, almost immediately after making the decision to start over. My body, realizing that I was now being true to myself, physically responded.

This is what happens when you are in alignment with your true self. Your body will clue you in, sometimes

What happens to a baby when you play bouncy music around them? They bounce! As adults, the firm grip of shame can make it feel near impossible to express ourselves in that childlike, unbridled manner. When expression is tied to an end result, a preconceived image or other peoples’ perceptions of us, it will manifest itself into false thoughts like: I can’t because I don’t have enough talent. I can’t because I don’t look a certain way. I can’t because people will judge me.

The Heart: A Challenge Knowing that these thoughts exist, I will challenge you to a practice of mindful self-expression. Begin by selecting a descriptive word you have difficulty believing about yourself, but which you desire to be. Then, speak the statement (fill in the blank with your chosen description) “I am ____.” Literally say it out loud. There is great power to speaking words aloud into existence. How did it feel, physically and emotionally, when you said those words? Simply notice, without judgment. Repeat the statement, again out loud. Is it feeling different? Repeat it one more time.

Now, hold this intentional statement in your mind as you move into the second part of the practice.

Carve five minutes out of your day to dedicate to expressing yourself in a creative manner. No, seriously, set your timer for five minutes; you are worthy of this

gift of time devoted solely to yourself. This can be anything that your heart feels compelled to do. Turn a song you love way up in the car and sing as loud as you can possibly muster. Pull out some paper along with your favorite writing utensil (I’m partial to fine-line Sharpies) and begin doodling. My personal favorite, put on your favorite tunes and dance! Do something physical that expresses a vulnerable part of you. Now, here’s the important part. Once you have completed one of these activities, pause. Become aware. What is your heart doing? Is it beating heavily? What is your mind saying? What thoughts are coming up? How do you actually feel? Simply notice, without judgment.

The Practice of Being You The answers that come up when you partake in this simple yet profound mindfulness practice are not always easy to face, but doing the work enables you to choose actions that truly reflect the authentic you, which, in turn, allows space for others to freely express themselves. Give yourself full permission to be yourself, and notice how that changes how you show up in this world. I bet it is glorious. ■

Dedicated in loving memory to Raheeq “Kiko” Alzaidan, who always found creative ways to express her true self.

Shahad Alzaidan is an immigrant living in the heart of Grand Rapids, “Shoosh” is a practitioner of mindful living and a believer in the healing and transformative powers of love, kindness and dance.

Creativity is how I share my soul with the world.

- BRENE BROWN

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DIY

4 WAYS TO

GET YOUR CRAFT ON

Crafting is a wonderful way to relieve stress and express your creative side. Fortunately, you don’t

have to be a master craftsman or spend a fortune on materials to have fun and enjoy the benefits.

“A great way to get into crafting is by ‘upcycling’ — bringing new life into items you already have,” said Dinah Wulf, author and blogger of the website DIY Inspired. “Some of my favorite projects can be done with ordinary household items and just a dab of glue.”

Here are four easy upcycled projects to get your creative juices flowing.

A Cork Cellphone Stand? Wine-Not? Wine corks make excellent crafting material, so instead of throwing the cork away once the bottle is empty, put it to use by creating a stand for your smartphone. All that you need for this cute project are 24 corks and a sturdy, quick-drying glue like DAP RapidFuse All Purpose Adhesive.

Start by stacking the corks in a pyramid shape, applying just a thin layer of glue to where the corks meet. Press each bond together for 30 seconds to

ensure a strong hold. Next, just add one extra row of corks at the bottom for the phone to rest on, and repeat with the adhesive. Allow to cure for 30 minutes. In less than five minutes, you’ve created a unique resting place for your phone that keeps it handy while you work at your desk or look up recipes in the kitchen.

A Dazzling Jewelry Box for Hidden Treasures For an easy, budget-friendly crafting project, Wulf recommended scouring flea markets and garage sales for old ceramic boxes. With a little dressing up, they make the perfect jewelry box for you or a loved one. Start by spray-painting the box in your desired color. Once dry, embellish with rhinestones or old figurines — even old decorative salt or pepper shakers. Simply dab a bit of adhesive on the item, then press into the box for 30 seconds to seal.

A Bird Feeder to Tweet About One of Wulf ’s favorite projects is creating an eyecatching bird feeder made from an old saucer and teacup. It’s an excellent way to repurpose old dishes that you no longer use while also bringing a dash of whimsy to the backyard. Simply lay the cup on its side on top of the saucer, and check to see where the cup and saucer touch. Next, apply the adhesive

COURTESY OF BRANDPOINT to these two areas to set and press together for 30 seconds. To keep the cup from rolling as it sets, place two small items on either side. After it cures for 30 minutes, fill it with bird seed and hang it from your porch or a tree.

A Mug Makeover Don’t have a favorite mug for your morning coffee?

Make your own! With a basic ceramic mug as your canvas, the sky’s the limit. Apply word tiles to craft a fun message; use multisurface acrylic paint and painter’s tape to create colorful, geometric shapes (follow directions on paint label for proper application and drying); or, for a soothingly abstract effect, use the following technique: Fill a Tupperware with lukewarm water and add a few drops of fingernail polish in the color of your choice and stir with a toothpick. Dip your mug into the mixture, letting it sit for a few minutes then let dry for three hours. Voila! Your mug is now a masterpiece. Be sure to apply adhesive or paint only to the exterior, as many glues and paints are not food safe; and always be sure to hand wash your new mug. ■

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DIY

WHITLEY SEMROW

MAKE IT YOUR OWN: FINDING YOUR PERSONAL DESIGN STYLE When it comes to interior design, having a curated and well-defined aesthetic is a challenge for almost everyone. Knowing where to begin doesn’t have to be overwhelming and can make the process much more enjoyable. Infusing your personal design style into your home should be fun!

The most critical step is to decide how you want the room to feel. Your surroundings directly impact the way you feel and, in turn, the way you live in your home. The look should be more about a feeling than a design theme; don’t get trapped into a theme. For example, if you like a Mediterranean style, think about why you like it: Is it the warm earthy tones?

Or do you like the vibrant blues and yellows? Do you like homes that feel cozy and warm, or are you drawn more toward moody and dramatic interiors?

So, how do you decide what you want the feel of your room to be? Collect images. Browse the internet for pictures of homes that inspire you, cut images out of magazines, visit stores and take

pictures of the things you like. Once you have a good number of images collected, start looking for common themes. Does everything have a common color or texture? There might be a pattern or style that pulls you in.

Another exercise includes taking inventory of the things you have. Take a look around your home: Are there things that you like and reflect your style?

Edit out the items you don’t like. If an item no longer resonates with you, it’s time to donate it. Mood boards or collages are another excellent way to hone in on common looks that you like. Use those cutouts and print your photos to mix and match images, textures and patterns in a way that is complementary and reflects the feeling that you would like to cultivate in your home.

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Still stuck? Don’t worry!

Interior designers have been trained to be able to help you define your design aesthetic amongst other things and can usually help you come up with a plan for your space for a modest investment. Remember, your style is unique to you. Once you’ve been able to personalize your design style you can truly appreciate the feeling of being home. ■

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MY COMMUNITY

AWARD-WINNING SYMPOSIUM REACHES NEW HEIGHTS Nearly 100 women attended the third annual Women’s Aviation Career Symposium on Jan. 25 at the Capital Region International Airport. The symposium, hosted by Jackson National Life Insurance, was organized by co-founders Helen Hagg, Mary Poirier and Pam Tobin. The symposium showcased the many different career pathways and science-, technology-, engineering- and math-related fields that aviation offers and awarded $7,500 in scholarships for aviation education and honored the winner of the 2019 Michigan Aeronautics Commission Award of Excellence.

Scholarship winners were Kendra Blackie, Karissa Fricke, Kayla Hoffman, Victoria Moore and Katherine Priddy. Blackie, Hoffman, Priddy and Moore are working toward commercial pilot ratings, while Fricke will use the money toward her airframe and powerplant maintenance certificates. â–

WACS 2020 Scholarship Winners

WACS 2020 Keynote Speaker - Kari Smith

32 MARCH 2020

WACS 2020 Group Photo

WACS Venue

MY COMMUNITY

STUDENT ART HIGHLIGHTED AT MSUFCU The Michigan State University Federal Credit Union Student Art Exhibit kicked off Jan. 29 at MSUFCU headquarters. The event featured 18 high schools and over 160 art exhibit entries including paintings, sketches, 3D pieces and photography. The public voted via Facebook, the MSUFCU website and in-person by ballot. Awards given included the juried awards, Social Media Award, People’s Choice Award and School Spirit Award.

Juried award winners announced at a Feb. 26 ceremony were: First place: Mason student Alison French for her piece “Staruszka” Second place: Williamston student Jasmyne Bush for “Adaeze” Third place: East Lansing student Kohi Kalandrova for “Everything.” ■

“Staruszka” by Alison French

“Adaeze” by Jasmyne Bush

“Everything” by Kohi Kalandrova

Catherine Tonning-Popowich speaks about her art with the crowd

18 area schools participated with over 160 entries MARCH 2020

33

FIND Your Art

BY RENEE FRANKLIN

When we think of art, many of us think of paintings hanging in the grand hall of a museum; and when we think of artists, we think of tortured individuals whiling away in a dark basement studio toiling over a masterpiece via oil paints. This narrow definition of art limits our potential to experience the world and express ourselves in ways to which we are naturally inclined. With an expanded definition, one can see art everywhere, in everything and recognize your own ability to make it.

While creativity is innate in all of us, expressing it is good for us. According to the American Journal of Public Health, creative activities decrease stress in a fashion similar to meditation, in turn reducing the risk of diseases such as heart disease, Alzheimer’s and depression, and boosts emotional well-being regardless of skill level.

Recognize Tapping into your creativity and finding your art is as simple as recognizing it. Think of the activities, however big or small, that you give extra attention; that you lose yourself in, even for a moment. Do you relish writing notes with beautiful handwriting? Add flourishes to your emails? Is cooking dinner your favorite part of the day? Think about why you give it extra

attention, and why it gives you pleasure: Do you love forming curves in a certain letter? The way specific paper absorbs ink? Do clever wordings and vivacious verbiage make you light up inside?

Does a superb soufflé make your soul sing?

Whatever it is, embrace it and start considering it your art.

Take a Class After you have recognized your art, sign up for a class to enhance your skills and spend a certain amount of time a week dedicated to learning and practicing. If handwriting is your thing, sign up for a calligraphy class; if it’s well-worded emails, join a writing group; if it’s cooking, take a workshop geared toward a specific cuisine.

Challenge yourself to learn more, grow your craft and take ownership of the self-expression that comes naturally to you.

tools to take advantage of it. Pick a spot in your home (a desk for writing, a four-season porch for painting, an empty room for dancing, etc.), pronounce it your creative space and fill it with the tools you need to explore the depths of your expression and create your art.

Consume A study conducted by the American Journal of Public Health found that even observing creativity reduces psychological stress and promotes healing. Now that you have learned to recognize everything around you as art, take it in; you will nurture your creativity and enhance your connection with the world. Watch movies, read books, dine out, get lost in museums, discover art shows, take more classes, attend discussions, enjoy live music; absorbing the creative expressions of others will, in turn, enrich your own. ■

Give Yourself Time, Space and Tools Whether it’s a few minutes in the morning, or half an hour during your lunch break or an entire evening, set time aside as frequently as possible to expressing yourself through your art. Don’t wait for inspiration to strike, just do it. But, by all means, when inspiration does come sauntering your way, make sure you have the space and

I think everything in life is art. What you do. How you dress. The way you love someone and how you talk. Your smile and your personality. What you believe in and all your dreams. The way you drink your tea. How you decorate your home. Or party. Your grocery list. The food you make. How your writing looks. And the way you feel. Life is art.

- Helena Bonham Carter

34 MARCH 2020

PROFESSIONAL GUIDE LAKEEYA TUCKER, D.O.

DR. SUSAN MAPLES

Dr. LaKeeya Tucker received her undergraduate degree from Youngstown State University before graduating in 1998 from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Pennsylvania.

Tucker is board certified in obstetrics and gynecology. She specializes in treating patients with endometriosis and polycystic ovarian syndrome as well as other gynecological issues. She is skilled in performing in-office procedures such as NovaSure ablations and Essure hysteroscopic tubal ligations. Tucker sees patients for routine women’s health care and preventative maintenance, abnormal Pap smear management, and routine and problem pregnancy care. Tucker is currently chief of staffelect at Sparrow Hospital.

Dr. Susan Maples is a 30-year clinician who leads a total health and dental care practice in Holt, Michigan. She is one of the Top 25 Women in U.S. dentistry and also one of the Top 8 Innovators in Dentistry, according to Dental Products Report.

Dr. Maples is co-author of Blabber Mouth, 77 secrets only your mouth can tell you to live a Healthier, Happier, Sexier Life and is the co-investigator for an award-winning study on the detection of diabetes in the dental office.

(517) 484-3000 Main Campus 1560 Turf Lane East Lansing, MI 48823

DrSusanMaples.com (517) 694-0353 2101 North Aurelius Road, Suite 1 Holt, MI 48842

alliance-obgyn.com South Campus 1100 S. Cedar St. Mason, MI 48854

DARLENE PUJA

LIZ RENO-HAYES

Darlene Puja is the proprietor and master injector of Ageless Beauty Center medical spa in Okemos. She studied physiology and psychology at Michigan State University and received her RN license from Lansing Community College.

Liz has a genuine smile that connects with everyone she meets. That alone makes her approachable and easy to connect with: a small but important part of what makes a great account executive representing Capital Area Women’s LifeStyle Magazine, Greater Lansing Business Monthly and ing Magazine. Liz graduated from Western Michigan University with a Bachelor of Business and a focus on sales and business marketing. With more than 10 years of sales and client management experience, she loves to help her clients grow their business.

After graduation, Puja launched her career as a nurse in Michigan, where she specialized in cosmetics, eventually leading to her owning her own business and doing what she loves. As a medical professional, Puja subscribes to a conservative and educational approach to customize to her patients’ needs. She provides the most sophisticated techniques and technologies available in skin care health and beauty to deliver the most beneficial and noninvasive treatments with a thoughtful and caring demeanor.

agelessbeautycenterokemos.com (517) 203-5052 2395 Jolly Road, Suite 145 Okemos, MI 48864

m3group.biz (517) 203-3333 221 W. Saginaw St. Lansing, MI 48933

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MISTY GAUTZ

SALLY BABBITT

Misty Gautz is the general manager of Lexus of Lansing. At 20 she stepped into a world that was largely a boys’ club; however, through an acute focus on high-quality customer interaction, Gautz quickly rose through the ranks. She is committed to making every customer’s car-buying experience a pleasant and easy transaction. Offering a transparent service and sales experience is one of the most important aspects of her career. She has a large focus on community outreach, and this past holiday season she started Spartan Auto Group’s Best Christmas Ever and provided struggling families with everything they needed for the holiday.

Sally Babbitt provides probate and estate planning services to help families navigate the legal issues of death and incapacity — including wills, trusts, estate and trust administration, guardians, conservators, and probate litigation.

Babbitt serves as the treasurer for the Resolution Services Center of Central Michigan, is a member of the Eaton County Bar and Ingham County Bar associations, and the probate and estate planning section of the State Bar of Michigan.

Babbitt also is co-chair for the probate and estate planning section of the Ingham County Bar Association. She speaks and publishes on estate and probate topics in addition to appearing monthly on Fox 47’s “Morning Blend.”

sallybabbittlaw.com

lexusoflansing.com (517) 394-8000 5575 S Pennsylvania Ave, Lansing, MI 48911

(517) 507-3306 6005 W. St. Joseph Highway, Suite 302 Lansing, MI 48917

At Rise and Shine Tutoring, LLC, we provide year round, affordable, one-on-one, in-home tutoring to all K-college level students. Our tutors are carefully matched to each student’s specific learning needs. They support the school curriculum and help students achieve academic success.

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Visit a branch | msufcu.org | 517-333-2424 1 Annual Percentage Yield (APY) of 1.80% effective 2/1/20. Early withdrawal penalty of 180 days of dividends applies if funds are withdrawn prior to maturity. An early withdrawal could reduce your initial investment. Rate subject to change at any time. Rate is fixed for the term of the Certificate at the time the Certificate is opened. Upon maturity, should the Certificate be renewed, 18-month Certificate will convert to a 1-Year Add-On Certificate at the then 1-Year-Add-On Certificate rate. 2Annual Percentage Yield (APY) of 2.40% effective 2/1/20. Minimum opening deposit of $2,500. Early withdrawal penalty of 365 days of dividends applies if funds are withdrawn prior to maturity. An early withdrawal could reduce your initial investment. Rate subject to 36 MARCH 2020 Federally insured change at any time. Rate is fixed for the term of the Certificate at the time the Certificate is opened. Upon maturity, should the Certificate be renewed, 7-year Certificate will convert to a 5-year Certificate at the then 5-year Certificate rate.

by NCUA