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Dear I Am Modern Readers, We live in an epicenter of culture, diversity, and power. Washington D.C. and its surrounding suburbs provide a quality of life second to none and in the caliber of the world’s most prominent cities. So, in the epitome of cultural and professional diversity, how does being a modern mom play into life in 2009? Pop culture and society at large has an everchanging canvas that reflects the evolving image of modern mothers. From Norman Rockwell posters of perfect American life to day-long marathons on the Bravo Channel of Real Housewives, there is a social norm when it comes to defining motherhood. From pie-baking, aproned, Barbie Dolls to the nouveau riche raising their families in the company of a camera crew and the viewership of millions, the pressure is always on, 24/7, to be the best moms, perfect wives, successful career women, supporting sisters and loving daughters that we can be. But is it all too much? Is there such thing as striking the perfect balance where we can be all things to everyone, while maintaining our own dreams alive and our personality intact? Yes. Can women redefine their roles according to their own standards and not that of television networks? Yes. Can women have it all? Maybe, not all at the same time. But, at one point, yes. At I Am Modern Magazine, our own struggles to manage our roles led us to seek some role models and find inspiration among our peers who seem to have redefined their roles according to their standards. We share them with you. From practicing family law, to mastering early childhood education, to leading a male dominated transportation industry, to reporting on business on a large television network, to publishing one of the most prominent newspapers in the world, these moms create, define, and cherish their roles as modern mothers. Yours truly,
Hulya Aksu
Founding Publisher Modern Mom Media Corporation hulya@iammodern.com
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Founding Publisher Hulya Aksu ADVERTISING Account Executives KARINA MCKEE Nancy Sheehy Karen Horton Amy Barraj Stephanie Holguin EDITING Val Cavalheri Proof Reading Jessamyn Ayers ART AND DESIGN SITKI KAZANCI Creative Edge Design Studio
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Contents
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Published Quarterly by Modern Mom Media Corporation, 43300-116 Southern Walk Plaza #810 Broadlands, VA 20148, Phone: 703-728-9009 POSTMASTER: Modern Mom Media, 43300-116 Southern Walk Plaza #810 Broadlands, VA 20148 Application to Mail at Periodical Postage Rates is Pending at VA and addititonal mailing offices. Articles are accepted only in an electronic format. Copyright 2007-2009 by Modern Mom Media. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means without the prior written consent of the publisher. Modern Mom Media does not endorse the view and perceptions of contributors or advertisers. Printed in the U.S.A.
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7 Contributors 12 Thalia, Loving Your Pregnancy 16 Melanie Alnwick 20 Healthy Breasts: Doing Your Part 24 Jennifer Cisneros 30 Jennifer Bower 33 Invisalign Teen:
What is it? What does it look like? How can I find out if it is right for my teen?
34 Avoiding Divorce 36 All Moms Work 38 Kristina Bouweiri 44 What zone are you in? 46 Your Health: Endometriosis
Contributors MICHAEL VONAL
muRat aksu Murat Aksu is no stranger to Journalism. He worked for Playboy (writing articles) in his younger years. Hanging around town, he is known as “Gastronome Magnifique” and a restaurant expert. In his long career as an executive traveling to the best cities in the world, he has become an expert in identifying great restaurants and not so great ones. He lives with his wife and two children in Ashburn.
Michael Vonal is an artist whose primary medium is photography. He cut his teeth in the rough and rugged world of photography in Los Angeles over twenty years ago, and is now actively pursuing his art in the DC metropolitan area. Michael is best known for his captivating portrait work, which showcases his uncanny ability to capture decisive moments, expressions, and the emotional complexities of his subjects. You can hire him for your photo needs and contact him by calling 571.484.3286
BILL MCKEE
50 Founder’s Picks 52 Cover Mom: Katharine the Great 56 2009 Fall Beauty Trends 60 Decorating a Two Story Room 62 Calendar 64 Back to School Cooking 66 Laura Waites and All that Hair 68 Enrichment Programs 70 Fall Drinks 72 Emme: More to Love 74 Eat Our Words | Restaurant Review 80 Wine Bars: The Latest Trend 82 Funniest Confessions
VAL CAVALHERI Val Cavalheri is a full-time writer and photographer. Shortly after starting her business many years ago, she began to receive both awards and accolades for her work, which led to various interesting and exciting assignments. Equally comfortable in both the photography and writing field, Val has been a contributor for I AM Modern since it¹s inception. She is also a staff correspondent for the Washington Post and has freelanced for various government agencies and corporations. Her photography studio continues to be a busy place for families and children. Val and her husband live in South Riding and are the parents of Devon and Dylan. She can be reached at 703472-8216.
Bill McKee father of two beautiful girls ages 2 and 5, is a sales engineer by day, and reverse food engineer by hobby. This man loves the kitchen and there is no recipe he is afraid to try. In fact, most get doctored-up before reaching the plate. His passion started during his college years after spending a summer in Cincinnati with his chef aunt. His love for the kitchen has grown and his lucky wife gets to sit back and relax while he makes the most delicious meals for family and friends.
IAMMODERN.COM 7
Contributors
Suzan Meredith and Jennifer Mangum Suzan Meredith has been married to Todd Meredith for 17 years. They are both entrepreneurs. He has a political fundraising business Morgan, Meredith and Associates. They have two girls, Emily, 14 and Savannah, 9 and Buttercup, their parakeet. They live in Ashburn. Jennifer Mangum has 4 children, 3 boys and 1 girl, ranging in ages from 4 to 15 and a
very active Boston terrier named Hershey. Jennifer is originally from Massachusetts. Her family has lived in Northern Virginia since 2000. She also helps her husband with his film production company, Cold Spark Films. Their first feature movie “The Adventures of Food Boy” starring Lucas Grabeel (from High School Musical) is due to premier in 2008. Both ladies have been working together at Redecorate Today since 2006 and are both Certified Interior Refiners. Redecorate Today 571-333-0222, www. redecorate-today.com
Washington University. The perfect day for her includes some combination of reading, writing, running and baseball.
jessamyn ayers
Matt Duley
Jessamyn Ayers is a writer living in Loudoun County with her husband and two children. Prior to the birth of her children, she was a high school English teacher in Fairfax County. She has degrees from James Madison University and George
Matt Duley was born and raised in Northern Virginia. He attended James Madison University and worked part-time as a bartender. Enjoying the interactions with people and the excitement of something new happening every day, Matt decided
that bartending was better than being stuck behind a desk all day. He has worked at Beningan’s in Tysons Corner, Champps in Reston and now, sixteen years later, is head bartender at Coastal Flats in Tysons Corner and enjoying it more than ever. Matt lives in Potomac Falls with his wife, Michele, and their two children, Morgan and Luke.
Sarah Safa Sarah Safa MS, PA-C, is a certified physician assistant and aesthetic specialist.
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She is trained in a wide variety of ablative and non-ablative aesthetic procedures, assisting those who want a non-surgical approach to self-improvement. Her precise techniques, personable demeanor and vast knowledge have gained respect from patients throughout the Northern Virginia region. Sarah possesses a great deal of patient care experience and has a broad medical background, allowing her to perform the latest aesthetic treatments. She currently serves as a professional educator for Allergan’s Speaker Bureau. Sarah resides in Leesburg with her husband, Pouya, and newborn son, Ian. (Picture compliments of Patty Schuchman Photography)
Jamie Lober Jamie Lober is dedicated to providing information on women’s health topics. Her special interests include disease prevention, preventative care, high risk pregnancy and infertility. Lober aspires to open to her own ob/gyn practice. She can be reached at jamie@getpinkpower. com.
for hotels, restaurants and a luxury passenger cruise line. In 2006, Kumar parlayed the vast knowledge he had accumulated and opened the highly rated and successful Rangoli Indian Restaurant in South Riding, Virginia. Married with two kids, a five-year-old girl and one-yearold boy, Kumar and his wife, Jay, have been Loudoun residents since 2002.
Dr. Brad Applegate Dr. Brad Applegate is a licensed clinical psychologist and Chief Psychologist at Behavioral Healthcare Associates, LLC. He has a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Louisiana State University and has worked in academic, medical, private research and clinical settings. His areas of specialty include the assessment and treatment of anxiety, chronic pain and adjustment to chronic illness, executive stress management and couples treatment. He lives in Loudoun County with his wife and son. More information about him and his practice can be found at www. behavioralhealthcareassociates. com.
Academy where she continues to piece together strategic ways to improve the quality of education and its accessibility for all youth. With an intense drive, Lindsey pursues writing, photography and the spirit of entrepreneurship that encourages women of all backgrounds.
Dr. Zachary Casagrande
ali vonal Ali is an amateur writer and photographer, just on the cusp of becoming professional in both arenas. He is a student at GMU and married living with his beautiful wife in Centreville. alivonal@yahoo.com
SUZANNE RHODES Lindsey Williams
Kumar Iyer Kumar Iyer is an entrepreneur with over twenty years of experience in the food and beverage industry. He sharpened his expertise working
Lindsey Williams is a recent graduate of Flagler College in St. Augustine, Florida and spent two years studying at George Mason University. As an undergraduate, she studied graphic design, photography, public relations and journalism. Williams has dedicated her time to working for non-profits, operating both as a grant writer and assistant to special events. She has a passion for education and youth development and is a teacher’s assistant at the acclaimed Chesterbrook
Injustices chronicling her fouryear pregnancy loss, infertility, and general “hard luck” journey and what she and other women like her can do to increase their odds/deal with this type of hardship. She lives in South Riding with her husband and three children, Deborah, Alexandra, and Matthew.
She has lived in Northern Virginia since her early childhood. She graduated from George Mason University with a degree in Information Systems. After working in the telecommunications field for fifteen years, she started a home daycare business six years ago. Suzanne wrote a book titled The Little Embryo that Could: Conquering Genetic Termination, Secondary Infertility, and Other
Dr. Zachary Casagrande is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, a distinction held by less than 25% of orthodontists. A Northern Virginia native, he graduated from James Madison University, and received his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree, magna cum laude, from the Medical College of Virginia. Dr. Casagrande also earned a Master of Science degree and a degree in Orthodontics from the Medical College of Virginia. During his time at MCV, he received grants from Pfizer for work on his master’s thesis. He remains a part of the Medical College of Virginia as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Orthodontics. He currently resides in Loudoun County with wife Gena and children.
meet our contributors online at iAmModern.com IAMMODERN.COM 9
adver t isemen t
Caring for families in a uniquely supportive group practice Not only can I walk down the hall and ask another doctor or clinician for advice, I can also collaborate with MAPMG physicians and specialists all around the Mid-Atlantic States Region.
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ora Mackie, M.D., has been practicing family medicine for more than two decades, and for her the “family” component is particularly appealing. “I especially enjoy it when I’m seeing a newborn, with the parents and grandparents there in the room — and it turns out that they’re all my patients.” Having three or more generations of the same family as her patients is certainly not the norm, Dr. Mackie points out; much more often it’s parents and their children, but the process of caring for patients within the context of their family unit has decided advantages, she says. “If you’re treating one person in isolation, there may be factors affecting that person’s health you’re not aware of. But if you get to know a family long enough and have relationships with more than one person, you become attuned to the interactions between family members, you have insights into stresses that may be affecting that family that in turn have an impact on an individual’s health. A husband may share his concern about his spouse, or a mother about a child, and that information can provide an important perspective when that patient comes to see me.” Dr. Mackie also appreciates the window family medicine offers into the cultural practices of her patients, which definitely have impact on their health and wellness. “Especially here in the Greater Washington area, where there’s
so much diversity in terms of ethnic backgrounds, traditions, and celebrations, knowing a family can provide insights into someone’s diet, habits, even their use of other traditional healing practices.” A member of the Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group (MAPMG), the independent physicians’ organization for Kaiser Permanente, Dr. Mackie sees patients at the Kaiser Permanente Medical Center in Ashburn, Virginia. She is quick to point out that this center provides a mix of primary care practitioners, including family physicians like herself, and also pediatric and adult medicine physicians. “It’s nice to have a variety of styles and training among the medical staff. That allows members a choice.” The support she receives in this multi-specialty group is one of the reasons why Dr. Mackie loves working at Kaiser Permanente. “Not only can I walk down the hall and ask another doctor or clinician for advice, I can also collaborate with MAPMG physicians and specialists all around the Mid-Atlantic States Region. This is very satisfying for me as a physician because it fosters teamwork.” Dr. Mackie has been elected by her peers for inclusion from 1998 to 2008 in Best Doctors in America®, a database compiled by Best Doctors, Inc., and also made the list as “2007-2008 Best Doctor” in the February 2009 edition of Northern Virginia magazine.
Being a good doctor is about more than practicing good medicine.
It’s about preventing illness as well as curing it. Being proactive. Taking the time to really listen. And giving our members the personalized care they deserve. For the physicians of the Mid-Atlantic Permanente Medical Group, effective preventive care, healthy lifestyle promotion, careful management of chronic diseases, and open communication are the cornerstones of good medicine. Our industry-leading electronic medical record allows Permanente physicians to communicate with one another about best medical practices and to consult about your care. And using My Health Manager online, you can connect with your doctor by e-mail, view your office visit history, see most lab results, check immunization records, schedule appointments, and order prescription refills. Anywhere. Anytime. To learn more, go to kp.org.
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Thalia. Some people do not need a last name. She is one of them. This singer, actress, international Latina superstar, Grammy nominee, radio hostess and author recently spoke with I Am Modern about her newest book ¡Radiante!, a fact- and fun-filled guide for women seeking a fit and fabulous pregnancy. In your first book, ¡Belleza!: Lessons in Lipgloss and Happiness, you share your personal beauty secrets and inspire women to take better care of themselves. What motivated you to write ¡Radiante! The Ultimate Guide to a Fit and Fabulous Pregnancy!? When I was pregnant, I was looking for a book to tell me about what was going on in my body. The books I found were either very scary or too technical. I thought there was a niche for a book that was positive, that embraced your pregnancy and allowed you to understand what was happening in your body. What is different about your book? I wanted to put in information that I could find nowhere else. For instance, I devoted a whole chapter to what I call the “secret society.” It’s the truth behind the fourth trimester, after the baby is born—what you feel like, what your body looks like, the pains, the hormones, and the recovery. Understanding that when you go back home after the delivery, the baby doesn’t recognize that it’s outside of you and how you can cope with it.
thalia Living, and Loving Your Pregnancy
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You are gorgeous. Did you ever NOT feel beautiful while you were pregnant? I loved my curves. I touched my curves; they were beautiful to me. What an opportunity, what a moment. Embrace it. The times you’re going to puke--embrace it. You will come out a new person; you will shed yourself and come out a new woman. It is the best experience of your life. How involved was your husband while you were pregnant? (Note: Thalía is married to former Sony Music president, Tommy Mottola, ex-husband of American superstar singer Mariah Carey. They were married at St. Pat-
rick’s Cathedral in New York in a $3 million ceremony and reception.) Tommy was a saint. You go through so many different “you’s.” Your man has to understand that there are so many changes that you’ll go through, that will affect both your mind and your body. They need to be open to receive it. A man should ask himself: “Could I be in her shoes?” “Could I, for one minute, do this pregnancy thing?” ¡Radiante! was written in collaboration with your OB/GYN Andrew Kramer. Tell us more. He basically gave me all the facts in my book. It was important to me to surround myself with people like Dr. Kramer. I spoke with a doctor specializing in breastfeeding and another about pediatrics. This book is about preparing women to understand this new person, this character that is now part of your home. I give tips on recipes, dressing, includ-
“I thought there was a niche for a book that was positive, that embraced your pregnancy and allowed you to understand what was happening in your body. ”
these are the things that are important to me--the rest is fun. Enjoy a sunset, the wind, the smile of a friend, and a hug. They’re the medicine for the soul. Respect your dreams.
ing how you should dress if you’re not quite ready to tell people you’re pregnant…. Your daughter, Sabrina, was born in October of 2008. You’re such a huge success and so involved. I think our I Am Modern moms want to know: how do you do it all? It’s all about balance and organization. My priorities are my family—my daughter. I sit down with a piece of paper and ‘download’ my mind for organization. Say to yourself,
the perfect eye
How has Sabrina changed your life? Completely! I used to think that since I had lived and traveled and had so many wonderful experiences, that I had been fully living my life. But then I discovered that all of that was a little hair on my coat. When you have a baby, the whole fur coat is there. A baby allows you to become a new you. Babies are so divine. They are in the realm of God. They are beautiful things; their frequency is so high. They allow you to live in the present. So what do you think, Thalia? More babies in your future? Sabrina is learning to say, “Poppi, please.” Tommy is so in love….. I really want a brother and sister for Sabrina. w
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S p o ns o red
I Am Modern’s Cosmetic & Anti-Aging Guru answers a new product question
What is Latisse? Does it really work to grow your lashes?
T
he short answer: Latisse is a prescription eye solution used to grow eyelashes making them longer, thicker and darker. Yes, it works. My sister is an eye doctor so I had the inside scoop a long time ago and tried it myself it really does work!
The long answer: The chemical name for Latisse is bimatoprost and it was discovered in the 1930s as a new class of drugs called prostamides (yes, as in derived from the prostate – my goodness what we’ll do for beauty…). By the 1970s, there was widespread use of the drug for the treatment of glaucoma (hypertension of the eyes). Since December 2008, it has been marketed by Allergan (the makers of Botox and Juvederm) as a topical prescription approved by the FDA to “stimulate eyelashes to grow longer and thicker.” Please note that it is a prescription and therefore only available through physicians. Prior to its FDA approval as Latisse, bimatoprost was marketed as Lumigan eye drops and prescribed by eye doctors for glaucoma. It was noticed that the patients being treated for glaucoma were developing thicker, longer eyelashes. I recommend applying it to the base of the eyelashes in the morning to clean lids (it comes with a little ap-
plication brush). Although it is not recommended for the lower lids or eyebrows (the FDA is picky), it is safe for use in those areas as well. You should expect to see eyelash growth within 60 to 90 days. This is probably the biggest complaint…”why does it take so long??” We all want that instant gratification. If you are one of those people you’d better keep your expectations in check because it is unlikely to work before that time frame. That’s human physiology. If it causes you anxiety to apply Latisse daily and have to wait to see a visible result, either get false eyelashes or lash extensions. If you are compliant and patient, YOU WILL SEE RESULTS. For maintenance, I recommend treatment 2-3 times per week. Please note that if Latisse is discontinued completely your eyelashes will shed and return to normal in about 60 days. Latisse has been reported to cause increased brown pigmentation in the area used but this should not be permanent or cause for concern. I remember when minoxidil (an anti-hypertensive agent) was marketed for hair growth in the 1980s-1990s as Rogaine. Homer Simpson heard about “Dimoxinil” on an infomercial and just had to have it. He gets the drug from a doctor in a back alley, applies it and the next day wakes up with a full head of hair. His boss Mr. Burns mistakes him for someone else and promotes Homer to an executive position. I’m sure that it’s just a matter of time before Marge gets hooked up with Latisse…
14 IAMMODERN.COM For more information about Latisse you can contact Dr. Dima at WellMedica Aesthetic & Anti-Aging Medicine 703.787.9866 or www.wellmedica.com.
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Modern Mom reporter
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Melanie Alnwick, financial reporter for WTTG-Fox 5 and co-anchor of the Fox Morning News on Sundays, keeps her Emmys, along with all the rest of her awards, in her TV room. She makes no big deal about them, but the honors are impressive: Emmy awards for news writing, for specialty reports, two for investigative reporting, the Edward R. Murrow Award for Investigative Reporting, a Chesapeake AP Award for Specialty Reporting, to name but a few. Her husband, Frank, who is also in the business, has some awards of his own. We hope they have a very large TV room.
P i c t u re b y M i c h ae l V ona l
quality she has found vital to her success on the job. “I’m constantly asking, ‘What’s going to work here? What isn’t?’ In any new situation, I try to figure out what am I going to need and whom I need to talk to,” she said. This flexibility allows the family to integrate two very demanding and fast-paced careers with parenthood. “I always say that we are two single parents who get together on weekends,” she laughs. Their two young children have a nanny and even though it is not what Melanie and Frank envisioned in childcare, they could not find a provider who stayed open past 6:00 p.m. “But everything worked out. The nanny lives in our neigh-
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Born in Davis, California, Melanie has lived across the country and the world, moving more than fifteen times with her Air Force family. Not surprisingly, one of her first assignments while with NBC-17 in North Carolina was covering US Army and Air Force issues at various bases. It was something familiar to her. “I flew a lot of planes. I was once on a C-130 and my dad mentioned that it could have been the same plane he had flown on. [When you’re growing up] you never get a sense of what his day was like. To get a glint of what he was doing was priceless.” An added advantage to all the moving was that Melanie learned how to be adaptable, a
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On life as a reporter
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borhood. We trust her with our kids,” says Melanie. So far, they have only had to worry about a couple of sick days. “I know there are more challenges down the road,” admits Melanie. “But for now, when I’m at work, I feel that my kids are safe.” This is a great thing since her typical day makes most of us look as if we are on vacation. During the week, Melanie walks into the station by 9:30 a.m.; on Sundays, she is up at 4:00 a.m. and in the newsroom by 5:30 a.m. She checks her email and the headlines from the Associated Press, the Wall Street Journal and Bloomberg, etc., then pitches her story at the daily meeting. By 10:30 a.m., back at her desk, she is making phone calls and securing interviews then she is off to cover the story. If it airs that evening, Melanie needs to be back by 2:30 p.m. to write the story, order graphics and shoot the video—all by 4:00 p.m. A typical workday. The weekends, however, are all about the family. “We go to orchards, farms and the park. We like to play out in the yard and get dirty. I want them to be kids. It’s all about quality not quantity.”
Q: How do you define Modern Motherhood? Modern
M a k e - u p and Hair b y S a t A h n a t R odi S a l on and S pa | P i c t u re b y M i c h ae l V ona l | b y V a l Cava l h eri
Melanie Alnwick Profession
WTTG FOX 5 Reporter & Anchor Kids
Carmelo and Francesca
there’s breaking news!
families come in all flavors. Today’s parents have the flexibility to do what works for them – there isn’t one right way to raise a family.
What has been the biggest challenge in your life?
You are a highly successful career woman and a mom. Did you ever contemplate not working after having children? No.
Wine & cheese…and I don’t feel guilty about it.
Did you ever regret your decision to continue working? Not so far. I think
regardless of whether you choose to work outside or inside the home, it’s important to have something that is truly “yours.”
What is your life motto? So, we wondered, how did this awardwinning news reporter become the money expert? Did she make some brilliant stock market investment? Take courses in finance? Not quite. Melanie explains, “I was working nights when I became pregnant. I wondered ‘How do I do this?’ I asked the news director to switch to dayside and he asked me to be the money reporter. I like challenges so I took it on, did a lot of reading and developed my go-to people. I needed to figure out how to make it understandable. I think it’s good I don’t have a financial background. I always try to approach it as ‘I’m an average person. Explain it to me.’” We asked Melanie to give us the averageperson perspective on what we should be doing in these economic times. “Watch your credit cards and read the mail you get about them to make sure you’re not being overcharged or that there are no hidden fees. If they’ve raised your interest rate, have them explain why.” Lastly, she muses, “I wish I could say I was a coupon user. I just don’t have time, so I’m sure there is money leaking out all over the place.” Hear that, readers? Use coupons. w
Name
“Mistakes are part of the dues one pays for a full life.” – Sophia Loren
What is your dream job?
Restaurant and Spa reviewer in a seaside town.
How do you strike a balance in your personal and professional life? I am lucky.
Though my job is incredibly demanding with daily deadlines, I can truly unplug on my weekends. I try as much as possible not to check workrelated voice mail or e-mail during those days. Of course, they know how to reach me if
I have a feeling it’s still out there.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Can women have it all?
You can either choose to believe that and feel like a failure when you fall short, or accept that life is about tradeoffs and balance.
How do you differ from you own mother? Didn’t we all
think we’d be so different from our moms when we grew up? But I find now that we have more in common. Same work ethic, same attentiveness to home and family -- and we are both always right.
How many hours a day do you see your children?
Not nearly enough, but I try to make the most of it and give my kids undivided attention when we’re together.
bed. Our family is also great about babysitting. If I need a girls night or date night with my husband, they offer to watch our children.
What quality do you admire in other moms? The ability to maintain calm amidst the storm…and spotless houses.
Favorite Metro DC hangout:
I wish I could come up with something swank, trendy and expensive, but sadly I’d have to say our neighborhood pool on a Saturday night when a band is playing on the clubhouse lawn or bluegrass concerts under the amazing Travilah oak tree in Potomac.
Favorite family outing/ activity: Picking vegetables or
fruit at one of the local farms.
Favorite restaurant: #1) La Terrasse Club, Juan les Pins, France #2) Harris Crab House, Grasonville, MD Favorite clothing store/ designer: I have been a J.Crew
five hours on average.
fan long before a certain political wife made it popular. Anthropologie and Ella Moss items also take up a decent amount of space in my closet.
How do you make time for you? Haul myself out of bed
What do you wear when you are off? Jeans & t-shirts. Very
How many hours do you work a week? About forty-
at 5 a.m. for a walk or have quiet time after the kids go to
little makeup (too much of it during the week!)
IAMMODERN.COM 17
adver t isemen t
Mommy Make-Overs at Aesthetica
T
his is a story you can probably relate to. “I am a 36 year old mother of 2 beautiful children. They are the light of my life, but they have changed forever what I used to consider a beautiful face and body. My husband reassures me that I am still beautiful, but I know he has to see that my face is more haggard; my breasts are not as full and sag just a little. And I know he has to see the stretch marks and modest pooch I have in my lower belly.” This is an excerpt from a letter I received from one of my out-of-state patients. Although she had to travel to see me, her feelings about her family and herself describe the vast majority of my patients and friends who live in Northern Virginia. The bottom line is that women sacrifice many things for their families; not the least the appearance of their bodies. Because of E.C. and the hundreds of other patient, I have who walk in her shoes, I have developed a concept I like to call the “Mommy Make-Over” to restore many of the more youthful properties they had before they become mothers.
Before
After
Some of these women can be seen on my web-site at www. GotoBeauty.com. Imagine the possibilities. • Breast Augmentation and or lift to restore natural fullness • Tummy Tuck to restore a flat abdomen and get rid of stretch marks • Liposuction to get rid of back fat and saddlebags • Photofacials to reduce sun damage and fine lines • Botox to reduce facial wrinkles • Professional hair styling at Radiance Salon and Medi-Spa E.C. received her “Mommy Make-Over” which included a breast augmentation and lift, a tummy tuck and liposuction; she had the following to say: “I am so glad I had the courage to come in and see you. Although I knew I wasn’t the only one who felt the way I did, I simply wasn’t sure what was available to me. You made me feel comfortable in considering my options.”
Dr. Chang is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. • Make sure your surgeon is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery • Make sure he has operating privileges at local hospitals to do the same procedures • Make sure he has good and plentiful before and after pictures • Make sure he works in an accredited facility
Dr. Chang has lectured nationally on procedures like the Mini-Facelift and the Mommy Make-over. He is featured in New Beauty Magazine and is a Top Doctor in Health and Beauty.
See Before and After Photos at
www.GotoBeauty.com
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Health Your Breasts
breast health Doing Your Part
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S t or y b y J amie Lo b er
“Washington D.C., unfortunately, has the highest mortality rate from breast cancer in the country so we all want to do our part to raise awareness. We do not want to be that statistic,” affirms Minna Manalo, RN of Georgetown University Hospital’s Betty Lou Ourisman Breast Health Center. Every woman needs to concentrate on taking care of herself and knowing what resources are available. The following tips include some crucial information that can save your life. Focus on your body. Do not compare yourself to others. “The breast is structured in such a way that it can be lumpy. Healthy breasts can come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can feel differently according to the individual,” tells Manalo. Your breasts will change over time and you may even experience benign breast pain before periods. Commit to a monthly self-breast exam that includes both looking and feeling. “The best time for a woman to examine herself is within a week after the first 20 IAMMODERN.COM
day of her period because there is less hormonal stimulation on the tissue so it is a baseline,” says Manalo. Examine yourself either in the shower where the water makes it easier to feel things or lying down with your arms over your head so you can see the corresponding breast. Do not be fearful. “Most lumps we discover on our own are benign,” says Manalo. Try to detect changes. “Look for a lump that is more discrete or obvious than your background tissue, any change in the appearance of the skin like color or texture, how it feels like if it is thicker, puckered or rougher, changes in shape of the breast like a flattening of the nipple or a depression in the curvature of your breast shape, any evidence of nipple discharge or fluid and sores, swelling or redness that do not heal,” instructs Manalo. Bring any of these abnormalities to the attention of your gynecologist. Make sure your doctor is watching your breasts, too. “We recommend annual mammograms beginning at the age of for-
ty and clinical breast exams every three years for women in their twenties and thirties and annually for women in their forties,” says Beth Beck, executive director of the Capital Breast Care Center. By screening, you are protecting yourself from breast cancer. “We do not want women to be fearful of examining their breasts. We hope to identify problems as early as possible and improve outcomes,” says Manalo. It can help to know your risk. “Talk to your family about their medical history,” recommends Susan Brown, health educator at Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Concentrate on the things you can control like exercise and diet. “Studies have shown that postmenopausal women who gain weight during adulthood have a higher incidence of breast cancer. Physical activity seems to be associated with a reduction in risk and an association between alcohol intake and risk,” informs Brown. Research matters. “We are looking to effectively advocate for better research that is
Taking the time to get to know your breasts can be lifesaving.
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patient-centered,” says Mina Suh, science analyst for the National Breast Cancer Coalition. Several trials are being conducted explains Suh: “Taylor X is a base three trial of personalizing antigen breast cancer treatments to see if early breast cancer can forego chemotherapy.” Progress is being made. “The American Cancer Society funds over four million dollars in general cancer research with under a third dedicated towards breast cancer research,” shares Craig Fritz of American Cancer Society.
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Now Registering Treatments for breast cancer are individualized by an oncologist. “The basic treatments are multi-fold: surgery is one phase, chemotherapy, if indicated, radiation, if indicated and endocrine therapy or taking pills,” says Manalo. Talk to your friends about the importance of breast health promotion. “Raising awareness and empowering women to take control of their own health issues is very important,” reminds Manalo. This information is equally valuable for men. “Breast cancer can occur in men and they need to be aware of any changes in their own breast tissue like persistent lumps,” says Manalo. Through spreading the message of prevention and the importance of early detection, there is hope. “We are going to beat this thing. It is not a matter of if. It is a matter of when,” affirms Fritz. w
R e s o u rc e s • American Cancer Society, www.cancer.org, 800-ACS-2345 • Capital Breast Care Center, www.capitalbreastcare.org, 202-784-2700 • Georgetown University’s Betty Lou Ourisman Breast Health Center, www.georgetownuniversityhospital.org/body.cfm?id=206, 202-444-3315 • National Breast Cancer Coalition, www.stopbreastcancer.org, 800-622-2838 • Network of Strength, www.networkofstrength.org, 703-437-9595 • Susan G. Komen for The Cure, ww5.komen.org, 877-GO-KOMEN (465-6636)
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adver t isemen t
“MOOOMMMM! A Spider!”
I
sn’t it funny to think that time is brought to a stand still when the eight-legged invader is discovered in our places of comfort. Life just can’t go back to normal until the problem is taken care of. In quick defense, the following methods are used: The Tissue: An effective yet risky way to kill the spider. Usually it is then followed by flushing the tissue or throwing it away. The Glass: This procedure takes guts and I’m not talking about the spider kind. You have to carefully place a glass over the spider and then a card slipped under and finally letting the spider go free and unharmed. The Rubber Band: This is ideal for those with perfect aim that can take the spider down like a sniper. And then, a few moments later, the inevitable: “Mooom! There’s another one!” Why not just call EcoTek. Thus, no more “inevitable” future shrieks, creepy moments, or any nuisances at all. EcoTek Pest Defense is the perfect solution. The company’s motto is: “Happy Customers, Unhappy Bugs.” And EcoTek has proven to do just that. Their service is fast,
affordable, and thorough. EcoTek has a 7 point service which includes pest inspection, removal of webs and wasp nests, and a protective pest-defense perimeter around the inside and outside of your home. But what sets EcoTek apart from any other pest control company is their very “GREEN” approach. They provide effective results in a safe, non-toxic way. EcoTek products are environmentally friendly and won’t leave hazardous residues in your home that could be harmful to pets and young children. As a result this has made EcoTek one of the fastest growing pest control services around Metro DC and Northern Virginia. EcoTek will not only save you time from defending your home from those unwanted invaders, but will also leave families and pet-owners with peace of mind of not exposing any household member to potentially harmful chemicals and fumes—all this while helping you keep a little extra green in your wallet. For a limited time, EcoTek is offering 50 % off your first service. Call 1-800-205-6917 and mention this article to take advantage of this great opportunity.
Pests are more than a nuisance; they can be a serious risk to your home and family. In fact, the very comforts of your home create ideal conditions for unhealthy pest invaders. A basic treatment will only hide your problem. For your home to be truly pest free, a pest-control company must be willing and able to treat all nesting zones. Ecotek treats all areas of intrusion with every treatment not only killing the bugs you see, but also preventing them from re-infesting your home. Other methods of treatment commonly used will leave your home, food, family and property vulnerable to multiple infestations.
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IAM
Modern Mom Attorney
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In some circles, Jennifer Cisneros is known as the “mean and lean divorce lawyer machine” and this is fine, as far as she is concerned, as long as you also remember that she’s an attorney with a heart. “It’s very hard when I see my clients not doing what I’ve advised them to do. I have turned away cases when I feel that a divorce is inappropriate or would put people into a financial hardship.” If you were thinking this is no conventional attorney, you would be right. She is also one very determined lady.
Despite her current reputation, Jennifer did not always aspire to be a lawyer. In the 1980s, she worked as a trader in Chicago, a field that, not surprisingly, employed few women. After two children and a move to Connecticut, she decided to get an advanced degree, “something in the legal field,” to go with her interest in investment banking. So this unconventional mom started law school, commuting two hours each way every day. If that was not enough of a challenge, during her first year, she found out she was preg-
nant. Her determination was tested again when her husband, Jim, was relocated to Northern Virginia and she had to commute to Connecticut for two months in order to continue her schooling. After graduation, she tested out a couple of firms, but felt “there was no passion there for me.” She partnered with a family law attorney and, together, they started their own firm. She knows that it has been worth it. “It’s all about making a difference, not only for my Continued on page 26
Sometimes after dealing with some of the hard issues within a broken family, all I want to do is come home and hug my kids.
jennifer cisneros Divorce Attorney with a Heart
24 IAMMODERN.COM
Q: Hair and M a k e Up M odern Con c ep t S a l on , A s h b u rn V A |
Profession
Attorney/Partner AGE
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of self-forgiveness because it is never going to be perfect.
You are a highly successful career woman and a mom. Did you ever contemplate not working after having children? No. I knew that for me to be the best person I could be for my kids, I needed to work.
How do you differ from you own mother? My mother was a single working mother. She was a modern mother herself. She got her PHD when I was in high school. I have the luxury of having a very supportive husband and we are able to give our kids much more time than my mother was able to give to me since she had no support network. I think it has made me very conscious of how the kids feel if one of us is not present at their events.
Did you ever regret your decision to continue working? Regret is not the word I would use. I sometimes feel bad that I am not there for my kids all the time and that they have to make sacrifices for my job. What is your life motto? You cannot regret the things you have done - only the things you have not done. What is your dream job? It doesn’t exist – one that would allow me to be in two places at one time. How do you strike a balance in your personal and professional life? Honestly, it is not easy. I have the advantage of working for myself so I can leave in the middle of the day to go to a third grade play or a first grade assembly if I know about it in advance. Other times, I have to be in court and cannot attend events that I know the kids would like me to go to. That is when the maternal guilt occurs. What has been the biggest challenge in your life? Feeling as though my kids and clients are both getting the best of me and no one is getting cheated.
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Jennifer Dore Cisneros
How do you define Modern Motherhood? To be everything you can and want to be. This is different for everyone and should not be defined singularly.
b y V a l Cava l h eri
Name
What is your guilty pleasure? The Housewives series on Bravo. It is so titillating! Can women have it all? How? Women can have as much as they want. It just requires a lot
How many hours a day do you see your children? Three to four hours during the week days and the majority of the time on the weekend. My husband and I purposely avoid going out on the weekends as much as possible. If we do, it is usually with the kids. My oldest son is now thirteen so he would rather spend time with his friends than with me, but he knows I am always there for him. How many hours do you work a week? I usually work about nine to ten hours during the day and then will often work more after the kids go to sleep. How do you make time for you? Good question. Unfortunately, that is usually the first thing to go. I do try to get out with a girlfriend or two for a drink once or twice a month for a few hours. It is a nice way to recharge. I try to commit to taking yoga classes a few days a week, but lately it has been difficult. What quality do you admire in other moms? Patience and organization. Both qualities that I have to work at. Favorite Metro DC hangout: The Wine Kitchen is my new fave if you call that a “hangout”. I also enjoy the bar at Lightfoot.
Favorite family outing/activity: I enjoy going to movies with the kids. I try to take one separately at least once a month to have some one-on-one time. We try to do Family Movie Night at least once a week, but, unfortunately, the boys are into the action and scifi movies and I get out voted. I don’t get to see chick flicks very often. Favorite restaurant: Lightfoot. Favorite clothing store/designer: I am not a shopper. I like anything that looks good on me and makes me look thinner. I tend to gravitate towards classical type clothing – in black. What do you wear when you are off? Jeans and t-shirts. What is your funniest mom moment? When my youngest son, Charlie was
in kindergarten, he started complaining about his nose after dinner. After some questioning we came to find out that at school that day they had been doing an art project with lima beans and he had stuck one up his nose and could not get it out. He had been too embarrassed to tell the teacher and so he left it there until it began to hurt 8 hours later because it had begun to expand due to the moisture. I tried to pull it out with tweezers but it had grown so much it would not budge. My husband ended up taking him to the emergency room to get it removed. The doctors put it in a cup for Charlie to take home. He took it to school the next day but needless to say, the Principal confiscated it and kept it in her office. I guess she didn’t want other kids to get the idea of putting a lima bean up their nose!!! IAMMODERN.COM 25
Announcing an Exciting Change— NOVA Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics My practice philosophy has always been to provide the highest quality pediatric dental care with a Mom’s Touch! That means patients and their parents are comfortable and happy as we help children in our practice learn to respect their smiles for life. As a natural extension of pediatric dental care, I have decided to expand my practice by adding a talented Orthodontist who agrees with that same philosophy. It did take some time but I am thrilled to announce the arrival of Dr. Courtney Ullrich - Specialist in Orthodontics!
Valerie V. Woo, D.M.D.
Courtney J. Ullrich, D.M.D.
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jennifer cisneros clients, but also for my kids,” she says. Jennifer is proud that her three boys—Will (13), Jack (9) and Charlie (7)—see her as a strong woman with her own interests and career. She is equally proud of her role as a mom and knows how fortunate she is in having the flexibility that comes with owning her own company. When not working, she spends time with her children, realizing that soon enough they will be doing their own thing. “I try to go on their field trips and I’m involved in various school committees and organizations,” Jennifer says. The children have the added advantage of a father who is very involved in their lives and shares both the burden and the joys. Home to the Cisneros family is out in the country on five acres at the foot of the mountains. As much as possible, Jennifer and her husband try to spend an hour together after work, and use their drive home to de-stress from the day’s pressures. Three kids each going in a different direction is a challenge that Jennifer shares with other working moms. She credits organization and a good support system for keeping the chaos manageable. To help with the organization, the family has devised a calendar, color-coded by child, that shows who does what and where and when. “We live and breathe by the calendar,” says Jennifer. At home, she counts on a wonderful nanny to get the boys to school in the morning, pick them up and stays with them until Jennifer and her husband return from work. “We found him (yes, HIM!) online,” Jennifer laughs. She credits her success at work to a good office manager who “keeps her organized.” Does she mind being known as aggressive? “Not really,” says Jennifer. “I actually take it as a compliment.” But her job has changed the way she looks at her own life. “Sometimes after dealing with some of the hard issues within a broken family, all I want to do is come home and hug my kids. My heart bleeds for these clients and it’s really hard not to get emotionally involved. It does make me more determined to have strong relationships with my own children and affects how I parent them. It’s also very good for my marriage. I can’t discount this as a real advantage.” w
Register for swim lessons at Potomac Swim School FALL SESSION 2009 Tuesday, September 8 - Sunday, December 20, 2009.
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A Real Life, Non-Surgical Alternative to Liposuction
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erhaps you want to tighten your post-pregnancy tummy. Or your “love-handles” aren’t so lovely. When you’ve tried diet and exercise but still have fat and inches that you can’t lose, you may want to take a look at a new, completely non-surgical treatment called ZERONA. It’s safe, proven fat reduction procedure. And best of all, there are no needles, no incisions, and no recovery time needed.
What is ZERONA? A new and proven slimming procedure designed to reduce fat and contour the body without invasive surgery. The treatment plan calls for six quick and painless treatments. You simply lie under the ZERONA slimming device for 20 minutes on your front and 20 minutes on your back. And unlike traditional liposuction, ZERONA allows you to continue your daily activities without interruption. Clinical trials confirmed the effects that the ZERONA laser therapy had on adipose tissue (fat storing cells). It demonstrated that a small pore was created in the protective membrane of the fat cell enabling the fatty matter to seep out of the cell. The excess fat was then passed out of the body during its normal course of detoxification.
How is it different than liposuction? Liposuction is an invasive procedure that removes the entire area of fat cells from deposits beneath the skin using a hollow stainless steel tube (called a cannula) with the assistance of a powerful vacuum. Liposuction can be accomplished either with the use of general anesthesia, or with IV sedation, or totally by local anesthesia. In contrast, the ZERONA treatment is a 100% non-invasive that uses a low level laser applied externally to stimulate the fat cell and emulsify and release fat. There is no use of anesthesia, nor any pain, gels, creams, numbing agents, needles and no downtime.
Is there any downtime? Absolutely ZERO downtime. During the treatment you will feel no discomfort, no anesthesia will be used and you can assume normal activities immediately following each treatment.
What results can be expected? By following the ZERONA treatment plan a patient can drop 2 to 7 pant or dress sizes in two weeks. Results will vary, however studies have shown patients losing 3 to 9 inches and reduce stubborn fat from the Tummy, Back, Hips, Thighs, Buttocks, Love handles, Chin and neck or Arms. From liposuction to medical weight loss, there are several options for getting fit. Zerona is a stand-alone treatment, but it can also be combined with other bodysculpting techniques such as Smartlipo, MedSculpt or Medically Supervised Weightloss. Maintaining results will involve eating a balanced diet and keeping up with a consistent exercise schedule. Avie! Med Spa and Laser Center is now offering ZERONA body slimming treatments as well as their Medically Supervised Weight Loss Program and industry-best skin care services and products. To learn more about ZERONA at Avie!, call (703) 737-0197 to set up a no-obligation appointment, or visit www.aviemedspa.com.
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Modern Mom Entrepreneur
Striving for balance between family and career is a challenge for today’s modern mom. According to Jennifer Bower, “it’s an attempt to be a professional plate spinner.” After earning an accounting degree from Texas A&M University, Bower worked in the educational system for almost twenty years on the management/financial side. In 2003, she founded BeanTree Learning, one of the most innovative early childhood learning facilities in Northern Virginia. She attributes the success of her venture to a quality facility, unique curriculum and stellar staff. Jenni-
fer dedicates countless hours to her thriving business with its campuses in Ashburn and Westfields and her biggest challenge is spending more time with her husband and eight-year-old son. Jennifer’s son, Grant, was two months old when she returned to work and like most mothers, she felt guilt over leaving her baby and concern about the care he would receive. She sought to regain her professional footing, get back into shape and spend as much time with her son as possible. No easy task. She had mixed feelings about her son’s child care
I think women can have it all if we don’t hold ourselves to a perfectionist standard in both family and career and if we have supportive partners and families in our lives who believe in what we do and share the same goals. 30 IAMMODERN.COM
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facility as its quality depended on his teacher at the time. This fueled her desire to open her own school where she could have some control over the process of selecting and retaining quality teachers “whose passion was working with young children.” Bower and her family, in their limited free time, hike, fish, play “roof ball” outside, work puzzles, play with their new puppy, Rex, and simply talk about their day, an often underrated activity. A mom needs to refuel before she can meet the needs of others. To unwind, Jennifer plays the piano, enjoys girls’ nights out and indulges in the occasional spa treatment. Jennifer’s top priority is her son: “From the time I get home from work until Grant goes to bed, it is his time.” An important lesson she has learned through her years of mothering is to accept her son for who he is and to let him be his own person. Jennifer’s hopes for him are this: “Whatever Grant decides to do with his life, my hope is that he
b y S u z anne R h odes
IAM
Q: You are a highly successful career woman and a mom. Did you ever contemplate not working after having children? No, not working was neither a financial option nor a personal option. I always really enjoyed working and being involved in education. Did you ever regret your decision to continue working? No. What is your life motto? Maintain your standards, work hard and treat others with empathy and integrity.
b y S u z anne R h odes
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P i c t u re b y M i c h ae l V ona l
What is your dream job? I have it – owning my own business that touches the lives of so many children – and having the benefit of being surrounded by the hundreds of children and families that touch my life every day.
works hard for what he wants and believes in and that he’s honest and fair in how he interacts with others both professionally and personally.” Jennifer tries to be the best role model possible for her son by teaching him to have a strong work ethic and displaying integrity and compassion in how she does business and treats others. Jennifer Bower’s home and professional life successfully coexist by having a supportive spouse, flexible working hours and an invaluable work group. She defines a modern mom as one who has the “best intentions of giving it all to their children, spouse and professional career.” However, she realizes that most mothers, like herself, feel that the more time they spend on one, the worse they think they are managing the other. She tries to be “less perfect at both and enjoy more of the in-the-minute opportunities and successes of each.” w
What has been the biggest challenge in your life? The biggest challenge is juggling business ownership and personal life. Work is a twenty-four hour job and you never leave it especially when you love what you do so much. My son and my husband are my biggest advocates and they are always a part of both worlds. I built BeanTree Learning as a school my son would love and want to attend and I succeeded thanks to their never ending support and partnership!
Name
Jennifer Bower Profession
Owner, BeanTree Learning Kids
Grant
personal interests. However, I did inherit my work ethic from her – she never stops! At age 81, she gardens, she is very involved with her church, and she still volunteers at, what she calls, the “old folks home”! How many hours a day do you see your children? Three to four hours on school days. How many hours do you work a week? Between sixty-five and eighty hours. What quality do you admire in other moms? The ability to maintain a sense of humor and light-heartedness amidst the goals of meeting everyone’s expectations and demands around her! Favorite Metro D.C. hangout Uncle Julio’s in Reston Favorite restaurant Morton’s Favorite clothing store or designer Nordstrom
What do you wear when you are off? Capris, shorts, jeans and t-shirt What is your funniest mom moment? When Grant was about three, he was saying his prayers one night and being thankful for everything he had – “thank you for my parents, my grandpa, my toys, our house, thank you for everything (long pause)….. except sharks!” We still laugh about that with him. What is your husband’s occupation? Does he work long hours? Paul is an oncology consultant for a large pharmaceutical company. His schedule is usually the same each day and he puts a lot of time in at night as well. Who cares for your son while you’re at work? Grant goes to the after school program at Langley during the year then comes to summer camp at BeanTree.
How do you differ from you own mother? My own mother stayed home with the three of us until we went to middle school. She then returned to work at the local high school where she was nearby and always had an ‘eye’ on us! I think my mom’s goals centered more on her children and family and less on what she wanted to accomplish in a career or her IAMMODERN.COM 31
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Q
invisalign teen:
Q
What is it? What does it look like? How can I find out if it is right for my teen? B y D r . Za c h ar y Casa g rande
Some useful facts:
Q.
I have a 14 year old daughter who is very shy. She is in need of orthodontic treatment and has some over crowding of her teeth. Is there an alternative to metal braces? She is already so worried about her appearance and I can’t imagine her going for a mouth full of metal for 2 years.
A.
Outside of traditional metal braces, there are 3 main esthetic options: Ceramic (clear) braces, lingual braces (go on inside of teeth and tend to be uncomfortable and very costly), and Invisalign Teen. Invisalign Teen is a way of correcting crooked teeth, spaced teeth, and certain bite problems with clear aligners. These aligners are removable, so eating and cleaning are much easier than with braces… a bonus for many teens.
Q. A.
What does Invisalign Teen look like?
Invisalign Teen looks almost exactly like Invisalign. It is made of a nearly invisible plastic material that slides right over the surface of the teeth.
Q. A.
What is the difference between Invisalign and Invisalign Teen?
Invisalign Teen can be used in situations where the teeth are not fully erupted. It also has a sensor on it which tells the orthodontist how many hours the patient has worn it. This helps with patient compliance….the aligners must be worn 20-22 hours/day.
Q.
How do I know if my child is a candidate for Invisalign Teen? Will my teen have the same result as with braces?
A.
Every child is different, and every malocclusion is different. Some adolescents will receive the same exact result with Invisalign as they would have with braces. Others necessitate growth modification and orthopedic movements of the jaw to correct large discrepancies. These cases can only be treated with braces and other appliances. Your orthodontist can identify what would work best for your teen. w
IAMMODERN.COM 33
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How can couples keep their marriage happy? Research findings reveal easily identifiable differences between happy and unhappy marriages. Happy marriages do the following: Focus on friendship. Stable marriages are built on friendship. It is what allows happy couples to be married in the first place. Stable couples are invested in each other’s lives – they know each other’s likes, dislikes, stresses, worries, hopes and dreams. Recover from conflict. Marital conflict is unavoidable and, in fact, can foster marital strength in certain contexts. Differing opinions about financial priorities, child rearing, housing, tidiness and other issues are inevitable in virtually every marriage. A key difference between stable and distressed marriages is not the number of problems a couple faces or whether they resolve all of them, but how they face them. Fan the romantic flames. Work obligations, family commitments and a host of other pressures can crimp a couple’s ability to stay romantic. Establishing romantic routines as a couple with young children fosters romance now and in the later years of marriage. Romantic routines like weekly date nights foster marital intimacy and protect the marriage. Know when to get help. Every marriage goes through periods of calm and periods of distress. Most periods of marital distress will resolve naturally. However, lengthy episodes of marital discontent are cause for concern. Getting help from a qualified professional who can identify the causes of distress and provide a roadmap to recovery is crucial. w To read more about Marital Bliss, please visit us at www. iammodern.com
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Books Review
use when they re-enter the workforce. Volunteering strategically will enable the stayat-home mom to make a difference in her community, keep her skills fresh, allow her to meet new people and expand her professional network.
How can working moms balance work with their family lives? In All Moms Work, I discuss many different work options, including the possibility of working part-time, telecommuting, owning a business, consulting or working full-time with flexible hours. It is important for working moms to assess the different work alternatives to decide what would be best for them and for their particular family.
Who were your main sources of research for this book? I interviewed many national career experts and working moms from across the US and Canada including Loudoun residents: Jane Braumann, who works as a part-time legal administrator; Jennifer Mangum & Suzan Meredith, co-owners of Redecorate Today; and Lisa Svendsen, a direct sales professional for Tastefully Simple. I also interviewed some other Northern Virginia moms who work at companies located in the area: Amy Cropper (Accenture); Victoria Dipalo, Marie Risser and Kerri Westburg (Booz Allen Hamilton); and Nadine Monaco and Lillian Zarreli Ryals (Mitre). 36 IAMMODERN.COM
What recommendations do you have for a stay-at-home mom who wants to return to work? In All Moms Work, I provide advice on how to transition back into the workforce by using a number of strategies for landing a job including the critical importance of networking, searching for jobs and creating a “gapfree” resume. I advise stay-at-home moms to keep their resume current by volunteering and keeping up-to-date with their industry and to not just “drop off the professional horizon” during their time at home. They need to keep their network and skills current so they can have the option of re-entering the professional workforce at a future date.
How do stay-at-home moms bridge their resume gap? They can do so by volunteering strategically, maintaining their professional affiliations, and, in some cases, by taking continuing education coursework. In terms of volunteering, it is important for moms to take on some volunteer jobs that use the skills that they used in their former job or skills that they hope to
These tips are great to prepare for a future transition, but what about a mom who needs to go back to work now? This question is relevant to many moms because of the economy. I suggest that they consider temping. There are many diverse temping opportunities that range from graphic arts to legal to IT and other career fields. It’s a great way to have an opportunity to work at a company on a short-term basis. Many temps are offered permanent jobs. An added benefit is that many temp companies offer computer training which can enable a mom to update her office skills if necessary.
Can a working mom really “have it all”? It depends on how you define it and the question is highly personal for each individual. In the book, I talk about how to design a worklife set up that is best for each particular individual and their situation. For some moms, it’s working full-time; for other moms, it’s working part-time, telecommuting, and/or starting a business. The important point is that working parents have many different work options, and should carefully consider the different alternatives before deciding which option to pursue. w For more information about Sharon and her book, visit the website www.allmomswork.com.
P i c t u re ( o f S h aron R eed A b b o u d ) b y S t a t esider P h o t o g rap h y
h
Sharon Reed Abboud, a Loudoun County resident, has written a new book, All Moms Work: Short-Term Career Strategies for LongRange Success. A mom of four children, Sharon is a freelance writer specializing in careers and higher education.
Stay-at-home moms can keep their network current by setting up an online business networking profile on sites such as LinkedIn. They should continue to network in person by remaining active in or joining professional organizations in their career field and by going to networking meetings whenever possible. This will keep building their network so that it will be in place when they are ready to transition back in to the workforce.
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all moms work
What is the most important career strategy that stay-at-home moms need to use?
S t or y b y Caro l S u der
IAM
Put More Fun in Your Fall! P i c t u re ( o f S h aron R eed A b b o u d ) b y S t a t esider P h o t o g rap h y
The Stone Ridge Village Center Oktoberfest, September 26th!
S t or y b y Caro l S u der
|
Stone Ridge 5K Race For Education October 17th! stoneridge5k.org
BUILDING TRUST FOR GENERATIONS
VanMetreHomes.com
stoneridgeva.com
To Visit: From I–66, exit at Rt. 28 North. Follow Rt. 28 to Rt. 50 West. Continue approximately 6 miles. Just past Gum Spring Rd., turn left into Stone Ridge.
It is not being just a woman in a man’s business that garners her that attention; she is a successful woman in a man’s business. 38 IAMMODERN.COM
that undoubtedly contributes to her success on both fronts and is at the essence of the woman herself. Bouweiri’s husband, William, started Reston Limousine in 1990 while the two were dating. She left her advertising job to work
Hair and M a k e u p P in k Karma S a l on and S pa , S t er l in g V A
One might expect Kristina Bouweiri, the CEO of Reston Limousine, with its 300 employees and an extensive fleet of vehicles that qualifies it as the largest limousine and shuttle service in the DC region (20th largest in North America), to sound like a New York City taxi dispatcher—gruff, indifferent, and impatient. Her voice, with its even cadence and soothing tone, quickly dismantles that expectation. It moves through a conversation confidently like water returning to a dry creek bed, uninterrupted by “ums” or other suggestions of indecision, and its current is most strong when she talks about the important people in her life. And while she relates the particulars of her work and family, the timbre of her voice reveals unique warmth
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O
Running a First Class Business
P h o t o b y M i c h ae l V ona l
kristina bouweiri
for the fledgling company. The two were married in 1991 and ran the business together. After ten years of working together, the increasing demands of four kids and construction on their western Loudoun home led the couple to decide that Kristina would run the business and William would retire and attend to the family and house. Since then, Kristina has gotten the company involved in government contracts which now accounts for 80% of their business. They run buses for agencies like the Department of Justice, the FDIC and the Federal Reserve who have various branches around the area. They also provide transportation for celebricontinued on page 40
Q
|
Modern Mom CEO
S t or y b y J essam y n A y ers
IAM
Q:
Name
Kristina Bouweiri Profession
CEO of Reston Limousine & Travel Service, Inc., metropolitan D.C.’s largest luxury and shuttle transportation company
S t or y b y J essam y n A y ers
|
P h o t o b y M i c h ae l V ona l
|
Hair and M a k e u p P in k Karma S a l on and S pa , S t er l in g V A
(703) 442-7323
How do you define Modern Motherhood? Balancing work,
family, health, social life, hobbies and having it all!
You are a highly successful career woman and a mom. Did you ever contemplate not working after having children?
No, I never had the urge to quit my job. I am a workaholic and am very driven. My children are more important than my job, but I feel I can do both with the support of my husband.
Did you ever regret your decision to continue working?
I have never regretted my decision to keep working, but I feel terrible when I have to miss an important event in my children’s lives like a chorus concert. I try and make it up to my children if I miss out on something. I schedule a special day with each of them over the summer where they get to do whatever they want. Last summer, I took one to Hershey and we spent the night at Hotel Hershey, I took another one to a high profile tennis match and the other two I took on a weekend shopping trip to New York.
What is your life motto? To
treat everyone how I would want to be treated.
What is your dream job?
I would love to be a spa critic and travel writer, visit exotic places and write about my travels.
How do you strike a balance in your personal and professional life? It is always
a challenge to balance personal and professional life. I had to establish a support system for myself that gave me the ability to trust that my children were taken care of before I could concentrate at work. My husband is the primary foundation for this support system. When my children were babies, I had a live-in nanny, my mother-in-law came every weekend and I had a personal assistant at work. This strong support system enabled me to concentrate and focus on the business.
What has been the biggest challenge in your life? The
biggest challenge so far was September 11, 2001 when our business came to a standstill. Reston Limousine lost a million dollars in cancellations, our bank dropped us and we lost our Small Business Administration loan to build our new facility.
What is your guilty pleasure?
I feel as if I have two jobs: running my business during the day and coming home to four children at night. It is exhausting and draining. I started having a massage once a month then I moved it up to twice a month then once a week. That one hour each week is just for me. It is the only hour during my week that I am completely pampered and my stress floats away!
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kristina bouweiri ties in the area like Anne Hathaway during this year’s inauguration and Sarah Jessica Parker when she was here scouting for places to film her new HBO comedy series “Washingtonienne.” Reston Limousine also works with the Make-a-Wish foundation and the Children’s Inn at the National Institutes of Health. Bouweiri believes that a Modern Mom “has to juggle everything” in order to do whatever works for the family. She has four healthy and thriving children—thirteen-year-old twins, a twelve-year-old and a ten-year-old. All are involved in a wealth of activities from tennis to figure skating to Girl Scouts. With the house done and the children older, her husband has been able to feed his passion for landscaping and carpentry, designing the
40 IAMMODERN.COM
plantings and improvements on their property. Technology has been integral to her success; her laptops and Blackberry allow her to work from home and stay in touch with her family, wherever she is. Balance, for her, comes from selfdiscipline and a support system she can rely on. She gets a massage once a week. “I’m at the disposal of my employees during the day and of my family at night and on the weekends. It’s my one hour for myself.” Regular exercise has kept her stress levels down and contributed to her losing nearly 40 pounds in the last year. She praises the quality of the people around her, knowing that it is their support and competence that allows her to excel. “You can’t focus on your career if your kids aren’t safe,” she says and she is grateful for the quality of people who are involved with her kids. In the same way, having excellent employees at work allow her to attend to aspects of the business that energize her like public relations and marketing. Her participation in Leadership Loudoun, a nonprofit group that develops leadership talent from various areas of the community, allows her to net-
work with other professionals and keeps her abreast of innovative business practices. By her own admission, Kristina Bouweiri receives a lot of attention because she works in a man’s business. It seems, though, that it is not being just a woman in a man’s business that garners her that attention; she is a successful woman in a man’s business. This Modern Mom demonstrates that a cumulative success—one that rests on the personal, the familial and the professional—is indeed within reach. w
Put More Fun In Your Fall!
October 3rd Beer Tasting!
Live Music – Moon Bounce Face painting & More!
Trick Or Treating October 31st For a list of participating merchants, visit Broadlands–Marketplace.com NEW!
NEW!
Domino's Pizza – Hunan Cafe – Glory Days Grill American Flatbread – Anothai – McDonalds – Taco Bell Starbucks – Harris Teeter – Walgreens – Many More!
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For more information visit:
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Developed and Managed by:
Something For Q: Are you looking for the perfect place to hold your meeting or event? A: We have the spot for you, Embassy Suites Hotel Dulles North located off Waxpool Road. In addition to the beautiful ballroom for premier social events, the Embassy has just officially unveiled the arrival of the world’s fastest hotel Internet connectivity By comparison, the Embassy Suites Dulles North Loudoun’s standard Internet connection speed is approximately 130 times faster than the ordinary hotel! “Think of our offering as the world’s fastest hot spot,” said Greg Miller spokesperson for the Embassy Suites Dulles North. Q: Are you looking for a DC option without having to go into the City? A: For the individual open to possibilities, aloft Dulles brings downtown DC to Loudoun County. Breeze into an airport hotel that offers more than a comfy bed and a friendly smile, and enjoy a whole new travel experience. Energy flows and personalities mingle in a setting that combines urbaninfluenced design, accessible technology, and a social scene that’s always abuzz. Sip a drink in w xyz bar, where lighting and music change throughout the day to set the perfect mood. Customize your stay and celebrate your style in a place where anything can happen.
For Everyone!
Come Visit Us!
Be sure to grab the coupon from the I Am Modern Website for your buy one get one cocktail. Aahh…breathe deep at aloft. Q: Are you looking for the perfect place for your customers to stay? A: At the Hilton Garden Inn Dulles North we know how important big days are. Whether meeting an important customer, making a big presentation, or conducting a training seminar, having everything you need the night before is critical to being your best. and receive 10-30% off standard seasonal group rates. Q: Are you looking for a Home Away From Home? A: Then the Homewood Suites Dulles North is perfect. Whether you’re staying for a few nights or more, we’ll do whatever it takes to ensure your stay is a comfortable one. Featuring many complimentary amenities such as daily hot breakfast, evening manager’s reception, high-speed and wireless Internet access, indoor and outdoor pool, two fitness centers, airport shuttle and grocery shopping service. In your suite you will enjoy items such as a fully equipped kitchen featuring a full-size refrigerator, microwave oven and coffeemaker, cooking utensils and place settings for four people.
w
what zone are you in? I start to get angry at the wind. I try to bite the wind with my mouth like a dog riding in his owner’s car.
We are a family who likes to stay active whether it is exercising or eating. When we exercise as a
b y M u ra t A k s u
family, nothing beats the effectiveness of biking. It is truly a sport made for families. Yesterday,
we decided to go out to W&OD bike trail
Parkway. Join the trail and ride to what used to
happily biking 1/2 mile up ahead. She is wearing
around the Ashburn area.
be a bike shop in downtown Ashburn. The bike
her watch that tells her what cardiovascular zone
When we bike long distances (meaning more
store is now a furniture shop and the friendly
she is in. She keeps screaming “I am burning
than 5 miles), our 7 year old son gets too tired
owner is gone. We decide to head back home
fat in my zone 2.” I say, “I am in zone hell.” I
and cannot keep up. So we ask him to sit in the
and look forward to the next 5 miles.
want to kill someone, anyone. I finally scream
bike trailer with his 2.5 year old sister.
I am getting tired at this point. These kids
“Help me!” My wife takes over from mile 8.5
All together with the trailer, they weigh over
keep drinking water and I think they at least
and brings the kids back home at mile 12. Still
100lbs. I usually don’t have a hard time pulling
each gained 40lbs in the last hour. I stop to
mumbling, “I am not supposed to reach my
them during our bike rides. But yesterday,
drink some water as well. I look up the road
anaerobic threshold. That’s just burning sugar.
was the first time in 2009 when we decided to
and it seems all uphill. Why is that? Why does it
I must burn fat. Stay in zone 2, stay in zone 2.”
take a long ride. It all started out fine. 8:30 in
always feel like I am biking uphill with the wind
By the way, if you are reading this and laughing,
the morning, not too hot, slight breeze in my
blowing in my face--- both ways? Where is the
you are in zone 2 already. w
face. Not too strong to hinder my ride, but just
tail wind? Mile 8.5. I am finished. I start to get angry at
To join the adventures of local moms trying to
Mile 2, 3, and 4 --- a good mix of hills and
the wind. I try to bite the wind with my mouth
get fit, join Fit Moms on www.iammodern.com’s
straightaways. We get to W&OD from Claiborne
like a dog riding in his owner’s car. My wife,
community pages.
enough to gently cool me down.
44 IAMMODERN.COM
Tracey Parent, President Loudoun Summer Music Fest, Loudoun Foundation
Contact us today for information on General Market Trends, Neighborhood Sales and Listings, or Investment Opportunities PAM JONES
KRISTI STAVROU
Pam Jones and Kristi Stavrou Yo u r D y n a m i c R e a l E s t a t e Te a m
Contact information Pam – phone 703-726-3405, email pamela.jones@longandfoster.com www.PamSellsFineHomes.com Kristi – phone 703-726-5112, email kristi.stavrou@longandfoster.com www.BuyFineProperty.com
“
“
Pam and Kristi are hands-down the first people I call when I am doing any business regarding real estate, period.
IAM
Health Gynecology
When Painful Periods Mean Something Else
p
Padma Lakshmi
endometriosis Painful periods. Nausea. Severe cramping. It’s all part of being a woman. Or is it? For most of us, a couple of ibuprofen and a day or two will get us back to normal. But for an estimated 10 million women, relief is not easy to come by and may be accompanied by painful intercourse, irregular bleeding, increased gas and bloating, and infertility. “When all other causes are excluded, 90% of the time, it’s probably endometriosis.” So says Dr. Tamer Seckin, co-founder and specialist of the Endometriosis Foundation of America (EFA). Co-founded with supermodel, host of Bravo’s Top Chef, and endometriosis victim, Padma Lakshmi, the EFA is focused on providing hope to women and adolescent girls suffering from this disease, believing that every stage of the disease is treatable and, with the correct surgical techniques, even curable. However, early diagnosis and timely intervention are crucial. Dr. Seckin confirms that the disease is often misdiagnosed. “When it gets serious enough, women are sent to a gastrologist or 46 IAMMODERN.COM
Compi l ed b y V a l Cava l h eri
urologist and told they have cystitis. When they end up in an emergency room, they’re diagnosed with PID (Pelvic Inflammatory Disease). Thousands of women end up with unnecessary hysterectomies” he says. According
Dr. Tamer Seckin
to U.S. Department of Health, most women have symptoms for 2-5 years before being correctly diagnosed. Untreated, endometriosis becomes a lifetime sentence with monthly torture. It is also one of the top three causes of female infertility. “While it is one of the most treatable it remains the least treated,” confirms Seckin. His paradigm involves both conservative management (including birth control pills, Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy, exercise, etc.) and aggressive surgery to excise the lesions. Since the disease affects normal social functions, he also recommends talking about it as part of the healing process In addition, a Women’s Health Physical Therapist (PT) specializing in pelvic floor rehabilitation can assist with diagnosis, postoperative care, and management of many of the symptoms, such as chronic low back and pelvic pain. Jennifer Small, a Board Certified Orthopedic Specialist with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy explains: “With chronic endome-
“This health issue is one that affects not only me personally, but 10 million women a year in this country. I felt that by speaking up and founding this organization with Dr. Seckin, we could help save many many women from years of unnecessary pain and difficulty. This is a condition that is very much treatable if diagnosed early.” triosis, the pelvic floor muscles commonly become shortened (or in spasm) in response to pain. The pelvic floor is a complex series of muscles, connective tissue and ligaments that form a hammock at the bottom of the pelvis in order to support the pelvic organs. Physical therapy treatment may involve manual intervention, exercises, biofeedback, electrical stimulation, and patient education for posture and self-treatment options.” Dr. Small, who runs the Core Health Physical Therapy for Women clinic in Ashburn, VA, says that a PT can also assist with postoperative care to decrease abdominal scar tissue adhesions and to regain abdominal strength. “By performing abdominal manual therapy, a Women’s Health PT can improve gastrointestinal movement and decrease postoperative swelling. A PT will develop a customized fitness program that helps patients safely recover. The right fitness plan will help maintain energy levels and quality of life.” To find a women’s health/pelvic floor Physical Therapist, go to the American Physical Therapy Association Section on Women’s Health at www.womenshealthapta.org. Click on “Consumers” and then “PT locator.” w
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Tamer Seckin, MD, is ranked among America’s Top Surgeons and Gynecologists, has over two decades of experience and has established himself internationally as a leading specialist in Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery for the treatment of endometriosis, fibroids and associated pelvic pain. For more on his credentials and further information about EFA: http://www.endofound.org or call 212.988.4160 Dr. Jennifer W. Small founded Core Health Physical Therapy for Women in Ashburn Virginia to address the growing need for Women’s Health PT specialists. She lives in Loudoun County, has three children (ages 6, 4 and 7 months) and is an active member of several local moms’ groups. She may be contacted at: www.CoreHealthPT.com, 703.283.3311. IAMMODERN.COM 47
adver t isemen t
Silicone or Saline: Know the Facts
T
by Frederick Watkins, MD FACS | www.watkinsplasticsurgery.com
here is no doubt that one of the most frequent reasons for consulting a plastic surgeon is regarding the secondary effects of pregnancy on the breast and body. Stretching of the skin and eventual atrophy (volume loss) of the breast result in a smaller, droopy breast that can be remarkable even after a single pregnancy. Corrective surgery frequently involves breast lift for the droop and/or augmentation for the volume loss. Regardless of the reason for augmentation, I frequently find myself counseling patients on the selection of implant type (silicone or saline). Although it has been over 2 years since the FDA approved the return of the silicone breast implant (after a 14 year ban), it is clear that there remains a substantial stigma. For those who are unaware of the history, the ban was a result of various claims that ruptured implants may cause autoimmune and connective tissue diseases and cancer. Since this time studies have shown that the implants do not cause these diseases or cancer. I would like to review the pros and cons of the two types of implants in the most unbiased and concise way possible. Perhaps the biggest selling point for the silicone implant (and the reason that there is even a debate to start with) is that they clearly have a more natural feel. Without seeing the telltale incision scar, it is frankly difficult to discern if someone has a silicone implant just by feel. Saline implants may feel more artificial (particularly in the lower outer breast where there is less coverage). Rippling in the saline implant shell may be apparent both by feel and sometimes visibly. This usually occurs in thinner patients with a small cup size requesting a larger implant. Saline implants are filled with salt water. If there is a rupture of the implant, it will deflate, and the body will absorb the water. What happens if a silicone implant ruptures and how would you even know? The silicone implants of today are very different than those of the 70’s and 80’s. The silicone polymer is more crosslinked resulting in a more “cohesive” implant. In other words, the inside of current implants is less fluid. If the implant ruptures (which can occur with injury but also with normal wear and tear), the patient may not recognize any change. Radiologic study may be necessary to look for rupture and the implant manufactur-
ers actually recommend periodic MRI to look for rupture (at the patient’s expense). The silicone implant requires a longer incision because it is pre-filled, where saline implants are placed like a deflated balloon and then filled inside the body through a tube, which is later removed. For the saline implants, the smaller incision size allows them to be placed through different incisions than the traditional breast fold incision (such as around the areola of the breast between light and dark skin). The silicone implant has a greater material cost to the surgeon, resulting in a higher surgery price tag. Saline implants have a volume range and can be adjusted for symmetry during surgery. Silicone implants have a fixed volume. The decision after weighing the facts becomes a personal one. There is no right or wrong answer. The studies supporting silicone implants are strong and most plastic surgeons would agree that these implants are safe. You certainly cannot go wrong with a saline implant if you have reservations about silicone. As a final word of advice, check your surgeon’s credentials and make sure they are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
n Silicone implants (before and after)
n Saline implants (before and after)
FHW
Frederick H. Watkins, MD P l a s t i c
S u r g e r y
Certified by The American B o a r d o f P l a s t i c S u r g e r y
Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Liposuction Breast Augmentation Breast Lift Breast Reduction Frederick H. Watkins, MD Rhinoplasty Face Lift/ Brow lift Eyelid surgery (Blepharoplasty) Ear surgery for prominent ears Thigh lift/ Arm lift Massive weight loss body shaping Male breast reduction Laser facial resurfacing Split earlobe repair Botox, Latisse Facial fillers (Juvederm, Restylane, Radiesse) Chemical peels Dr Watkins is licensed in Virginia, Maryland, and DC and is on staff at the following hospitals: INOVA Fairfax Hospital, Reston Hospital Center, Virginia Hospital Center, Sibley Memorial Hospital, Suburban Hospital/Johns Hopkins Medicine, Shady Grove Adventist Hospital, Montgomery General Hospital, and Laurel Regional Hospital Graduate: University of Virginia School of Medicine.
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2 spot me id T here is nothing more terrifying than losing a 1 child in a crowded public place! It can happen to
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lunch skins Being green is in and it is not only about recy2 cling, but also reducing. Reduce waste and have
a greener world. That is exactly what 3greenmoms had in mind. Get rid of lunch box waste with their “lunch skins”, reusable lunch and snack sleeves. They are stylish, good for the environment and made by local moms. www.3greenmoms.com
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tiny prints In a time where we correspond electronically, 3 nothing warms the heart like a receiving a per-
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sonal note from a friend via traditional paper and stamp method. We are all trying to eliminate waste and save trees, but once in a while when you want to make someone’s day with a personal note, do it in style. We adore Tiny Prints. Turn your personal stationery into something chic and unique with Tiny Prints Paper Portraits personal avatars! Design your own custom avatar and upload it onto one of their stylish backgrounds to create personal cards, notes and invitations that are full of your signature style. Select a character, visit the dressing room and place your personalized doll anywhere on your favorite personal stationery design along with your own customized text. www.tinyprints.com
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IAMMODERN.COM 51
IAM
Cover Mom katharine weymouth
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The Washington Post building is daunting—famous, historic, intimidating—and I move through throngs of touring students and sightseers taking photos to reach the lobby security. I request Ms. Weymouth and, shortly, her executive assistant, Verity, a lovely woman with a formal British accent, escorts me through the staff offices. Preparing for a trip to the penthouse, I am surprised when the fourth floor button is pushed. Also surprising is that instead of the stuffy newsroom look that I remember from the movie “All the President’s Men,” I am led to a modest, albeit fairly spacious, executive office that you would find in most buildings. But this is no typical senior official. This is Katharine Weymouth who, at forty-three, is the publisher and media chief of The Washington Post, one of the most pres-
tigious and recognized news organizations in the world. She is the fifth member of the Graham newspaper dynasty: great-granddaughter of Eugene Meyer, who bought The Washington Post at a bankruptcy sale in 1933, granddaughter of the famous Katharine Graham and daughter of Newsweek senior editor Lally Weymouth and architect Yann Weymouth. The most unusual thing as we talk is…. well, how normal it all is. She greets me warmly as if we were meeting to discuss our kids on any typical day. At no time during the interview would you guess that she is having a stressful and bad news day. Katharine’s office is the way I found her: inviting, unpretentious and classy. It is filled with things that clearly matter to her like candid photos of family members, a bulletin board chock full of her kids’ school photographs and handmade cards expressing love for their mommy. Comfortable furniture holds standard office paraphernalia alongside yellow toy cranes and stuffed animals. A wall of windows looks out on the building where her best friend works. Another wall shows reminders of world-changing events as captured by the front pages of the empire she has been entrusted with including the first man on the moon and 9/11. It is all integrated and simple and complex and it represents the
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I hope that I’m setting a good example for my children; I do everything I can to be the best mom I can be.
P i c t u re b y M i c h ae l V ona l
katharine the great
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P i c t u re b y M i c h ae l V ona l
seven and five, Weymouth tries to be there for them and deals with the hurt and guilt when she cannot. “You’re really torn--the times when you tell them that you’re going to miss a school play, even though you’ve been there ninety-nine percent of the time. I hope that I’m setting a good example for them; I do everything I can to be the best mom I can be. Of course I’m going to make mistakes and I hope, too, that they can forgive me when they look back—‘OK, she forgot to buy the turkey for my sandwich, but all in all she did a good job,’” she laughs.
katharine weymouth woman who sits in front of me and casually and thoughtfully answers my questions. Do not for one minute think that she has just lucked into her success. She is one smart lady in her own right. She graduated magna cum laude from Harvard and has a law degree from Stanford. Like most working moms, she juggles her family and work life. A divorced mother of three kids, ages nine,
54 IAMMODERN.COM
Despite the levity, Katharine leaves no doubt that she achieves equal success as a full-time mom and in running, full time, a distinguished American news institution. Part of this assuredness is a deep awareness of her limitations. She turn down a vast majority of dates preferring instead to be home with the kids. She holds no aspirations to run for political office or write a bestselling memoir like her grandmother. She does not even consider rumors about her taking over the Post from her uncle. “My plate is full enough for now,” she says. You can tell she loves what she does and she admits she does not do it alone. She credits her nanny and Verity for helping to keep her life organized and her friends for keeping it in perspective. “I’ll call a friend and say, ‘I was the worst mommy, I forgot to call about the playdate,’ and they’ll tell me, ‘You know what? In the scheme of life, the kids aren’t going to remember that.’” When asked to share with other working moms the secret to her success, Katharine has this advice: “We all need to help each other. Cut yourself some slack. We’re all looking for balance and we’re all juggling and feeling guilty. Do the best you can, but know that you’ll drop balls.” Clearly, this advice is a philosophy that also extends to her work. It has been said that she has given the Post a shot of vitality, but, even inoculated, the Post, like most newspapers, is having an identity crisis. A bad economy, dwindling advertisers, hemorrhaging revenues and a sharp downturn in circulation has crumbled the walls of these old-time revered institutions, some irrevocably. Katharine is acutely aware that she is on the brink of a new era. The biggest shift that the company faces, she says, is moving away from thinking of themselves as a newspaper to being a news and information company. News now comes in many forms from the Kindle to the Internet and other platforms, and the Post must develop these in order to survive. Of course, it will be up to future historians to measure her effect on the company and up to her kids to determine the job she has done as a mom. For now, Katharine is content that she is doing all and the best she can for both. w
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Why should you consider a pediatric dentist for your child?
M
any of our parents ask us, “What makes a Pediatric Dentist different from my regular dentist?” The answer is two to three additional years of training to handle the emotional, psychological and anatomical difference involved in treating children. Our dentists have thousands of hours logged in training techniques used to help make a trip to the dentist fun and encouraging, not anxious or scary. Many parents transfer their fear of the dentist to their children, so they come in already nervous. We work extra hard to make sure every child has a positive experience. That in turn, is what develops a positive relationship with the dentist so that as they grow older, they’ll be more excited to come see us! Also, little mouths require extra care. We focus on the preventive aspect of dentistry so that baby teeth stay healthy and adult teeth form and erupt healthy too. This keeps kids’ overall health intact, helps them maintain good eating habits, often times improved speech, and improves their self esteem when their teeth are shiny and straight! Building beautiful smiles – and motivating children to take good care of them – is an important part of pediatric dentistry.
Moms ALWAYS have tons of great questions for us! Here are some of the most common for each age group! INFANT – What am I supposed to do before my child has teeth? The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that you see a pediatric dentist by their first birthday. Before then, simply wiping down their gums at least once per day, preferably at night, keeps the natural sugars found in breast milk, formula, and food off their gums. It also gets your baby used to the habit of “tooth brushing” by getting started early.
TODDLER - Should I be concerned if my child has a thumb or pacifier habit after the age of one? Children typically lose interest in their habit by age one, however, some children may take longer. If you feel that your child’s habit is beginning to affect the alignment of their teeth or palate, visit our website for ideas on how to curb their habit or visit our office for us to take a look!
ADOLESCENT – What is your best suggestion for maintaining optimal dental health? Because we practice preventive dentistry, we strive to maintain the most natural course of eruption and loss of your children’s teeth. Regular brushing and flossing seems like common sense, but is often overlooked during this age group. Always help your child until the age of 10! We recommend protecting teeth through the use of sealants on teeth that have deep grooves and are susceptible to cavities.
TEEN – What can I do to make sure my teenager is not lacking in self-confidence because of their smile? We have many cosmetic options available for teens including whitening, Lumineers®, tooth-colored fillings and crowns, and custom mouth guards to protect their smiles! Visit our website at www.kidzsmile.com for more answers to GREAT FAQ’s, resources, and to find out about our services.
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Home Decor
the two-story family room Effectively using the large space
BEFORE
A
AFTER
If you have young children, buy furniture that can be serviceable for toy storage. Select ottomans that open or TV consoles with plenty of space. Toy storage can be functional while still keeping with the style of the room. Add art to the room to help draw the eye in to a focal point. Enhance a fireplace by
adding art to each side, giving dimension to the high walls and making the room more visually and aesthetically accessible. Do not be overwhelmed by the open space of a two-story family room. Use that space to create a family room that suits your style and your family and you will truly come to love the room and all that space. w
S t or y b y J enni f er M a g n u m and S u z an M eredi t h
A two-story family room is nothing to fear. All the open space can be daunting, but with a little work, you can turn that space into an inviting, comfortable room for your family. Start by coloring your walls. When you use color, you create a more inviting and interesting atmosphere. Add your personal furniture and dĂŠcor and you have the perfect expression of your style. Next, budget for window treatments--you will not regret it. Window treatments do not just complete the look of your room; they act as a buffer to all the noise that comes along with your open floor plan. The treatment should encompass the full two stories and will really give balance to the room. Choose your furniture to match the scale of the room. Small, spindly chairs will look out of place in the main seating area and petite items will get lost in the space. Use the open space to your advantage and do not push the furniture up against the walls--let your seating area float. Create a grouping of seats in the room and anchor it with an area rug. A couch and two matching chairs will go a lot further in furnishing a room than an asymmetrical couch and a love seat. Sectionals can also be a good choice. 60 IAMMODERN.COM
Zazu_Full_
Zazu
20070 Ashbrook Commons Plaza Ashburn, VA 703-858-9298 www.shopzazu.com
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Calendar
The gift of living in the Virginia, D.C. and Maryland area is evident. Even more so is the number of world-class and completely fun-filled attractions that our area has to offer. During the months of August, September and October get ready to mark your calendars with events for just you or your whole family! Check our website for full listings and updates. www.iammodern.com touchstonegallery.com for more questions on the gallery itself, directions or for inquiries on future exhibits.
August
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olf Trap offers an exceptional line-up of summer concerts! Included on the August roster: Johnny Mathis, Smokey Robinson, The Temptations, Bonnie Raitt with Taj Mahal, The Beach Boys, Bill Cosby, The B-52’s and the Four Tops! Visit the official website for specific dates, times, and ticket information: www.wolftrapfoundation.org.
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altimore, MD offers a unique dining experience during the month of August when it will celebrate the diversity in dining. Guests can sample and enjoy the tastes of its participating restaurants including Little Italy, Mount Vernon, Federal Hill and the Inner Harbor. Baltimore Restaurant Week begins Friday, August 7 and ends on Sunday, August 16. Lunch is priced at $20.09 and dinner is marked at $30.09. Visit www. BaltimoreRestaurantWeek.com for more information
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n August 13, indulge for your sake and others as The Ritz-Carlton at Tyson’s
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September
E Corner hosts its annual Fashion Tea for a Cause series. Luxury fashion realtors and local charity organizations have joined forces to masterfully connect the passion for fashion and the need for philanthropic works. This afternoon tea is served in an elegantly refined setting of the new Entyse lounge and restaurant while high-end fashion retailers showcase the season’s latest trends. Cupcakes prepared by renowned Pastry Chef David Nolan are accompanied by champagne. For more information regarding tickets, time and pricing, please call 703-506-4300.
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n August 14, between the hours of 6p.m. and 8:30p.m., be a part of the opening reception at the modern and sleek Touchstone Gallery. Hors d’oeuvres and drinks will be served. Visit www.
mbrace an evening of Latin American music with flutist extraordinaire Marco Granados on Saturday, September 12 beginning at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are priced at $75 and include a carefully crafted buffet. Call 202625-2361 for further details. or visit www.culturecapital.com.
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eptember 19 and 20 at Wolf Trap’s Filene Center, the International Children’s Festival will take place between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Adults and teens are admitted for $10 and kids enter for $6. Children three and under are FREE! Featuring TAP kid’s performers from Georgia, Serbia, Spain and more. www. wolftrapfoundation.org
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oin the Middleburg Women Networking Group on Tuesday, September 15, 2009, from 11:30 a.m. through 12:30 p.m. at Briar Patch Bed & Breakfast in Middleburg. This event is such a wonderfully smart way to network with over 100 prominent Northern
Virginia businesswomen. Enjoy an elegant lunch while getting encouraged and energized for continued business success. Not to mention, your opportunity to win fabulous door prizes and enjoy some of Virginia’s finest wines! Cost: $ 55. Must RSVP to info@briarpatchbandb.com or call 703-327-5711 by Monday, September 15. Walk-ins are not permitted. October
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he Embassy Series ushers in a wave of symphonic sounds with the accomplished violinist, Gaukhar Murzabekova, founder and artistic director of one of the leading chamber orchestras of Central Asia. Join The Classical Music from Around the World and Kazakhstan, on October 6, 2009. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $100 and include an elegant buffet and an opportunity to interact with the featured artist and diplomatic figure-heads in attendance. To find out more details, please contact 202-625-2361.
R
eynold’s Tea Room in Annapolis: Tested and enjoyed by yours truly, this tea room is fantastic for a day with your daughters, mother, sisters or all three! Enjoy home-made
T scones, hand spun whipped cream. History and British influence solidifies this 18th century-style tavern with its old world charm and feel. Lunch and afternoon tea opened daily during the hours of 11 a.m. through 5:00 p.m. For more information, call 410-295-9555.
aste of Georgetown! October 11: The fifteenth annual festival celebrates the finest food, wine and music the Washington D.C. area has to offer. Georgetown’s hottest culinary masterminds offer sixty of their best dishes all for your sampling including just the right pairing of sumptuous wine. The food featured is inspired by thirty of the nation’s capital’s most praised restaurants. For more information on the 2009 event, visit the website www. georgetowndc.com
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For a complete list of recipes from our Cookology American Classics Date Night dinner, visit www.iammodern.com.
P h o t o b y M i c h ae l V ona l
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Fall means students everywhere are gearing up for their return to school. Most relish the opportunity to expand their knowledge and broaden their horizons. Recently, I was presented with the opportunity to return to school for just one night. The school was Cookology, a recreational culinary school located in Dulles Town Center, and the cur-
riculum was an evening creating a full course dinner consisting of classic American dishes. This experience made me recall many fond memories of my informal culinary training like cooking side-by-side with my mother making treasured family recipes. My somewhat semi-formal culinary training was overseen by my aunt and completed during the summer before my senior year in college. That was a long time ago in a small apartment kitchen in Cincinnati, but it truly sparked my passion for cooking and creating great dishes.
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Back-to-school cooking
S t or y b y Wi l l iam M c k ee
cookology
My wife and I decided to attend Cookology’s Date Night which is one of their many themed classes. We were joined by five other couples for the class. This was a basic level class where a couple can come to learn and cook a full-course dinner then enjoy it with a paired wine selection in Cookology’s dining room at the culmination of class. This format has been a very popular offering by Cookology. In fact, a couple in our class had been there for over twenty of these classes! Chef Ian Douglass, a 1995 graduate of Culinary Institute of America at Hyde Park, was our chef for the night. His favorite class to teach at Cookology is knife skills where you can learn how to julienne a carrot, chop herbs, mince garlic and how to butcher a chicken properly. Cookology’s kitchen is simply utopia for the aspiring chef. A large, hearty work surface graces the center of the kitchen which can accommodate several couples. All of the sauté work is done on many induction cook-tops which take your pan from zero to very hot in just seconds. Next, all of the baking/oven work is done in restaurant-sized high temperature ovens. Finally, there is the cleanup area which was staffed by two diligent teenagers. This is where every dirty pan, dish, and utensil went after use. Large dinner parties would be much more enjoyable and relaxed if your kitchen had this last kitchen feature! Overall, our experience was truly outstanding. I would highly recommend Cookology to anyone. The novice cook is sure to develop skills and the intermediate chef is going to refine skills. For your entire session, you have access to a trained chef to answer any recipe question that perplexes you. Most importantly, everyone gets to eat a fabulous meal in a relaxed setting and no one has cleanup duty! Cookology offers adult and children’s cooking classes as well as wine and menu tastings. Classes cover a variety of topics from knife skills to baking and include themes such as Date Night and Friends Night Out. w
pizza lo ers build A free pizza
Fill out this order form and design two pizzas with your choice of up to 8 ingredients to top our artisan dough crust. Then bring your order to Fire Works Pizza in historic Leesburg, Sunday through Thursday, and we’ll bake your custom pizzas to perfection in our wood-fired oven. Best of all, you’ll get one pizza absolutely FREE! Now that’s a pizza lover’s dream! CHOOSE YOUR PIZZA SIZE: Pizza Pizza # # 1 2 o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
Pizza Pizza # # 1 2 o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o o
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MEATS & SEAFOODS Smokey Chorizo Salami Local Smoked Bacon Meatballs Chicken Anchovies Baker Farms Country Ham Spanish Tuna Nitrate Free Prosciutto Nitrate Free Pepperoni Local Sausage Local Lamb Sausage
ne free.
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Limit one free pizza per customer. Pizza of equal/lesser value is free. Offer valid for dine-in service only, Sundays-Thursdays, and expires 10/30/09.
FIRE WORKS PIZZA 201 Harrison Street SE - Leesburg, VA 20175 703.779.8400 www.fireworkspizza.com Free Pizza Ad.indd 1
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for personal or medical purposes. For the past few years, Laura has been teaching classes at
the Life with Cancer organization. Her salon is located in Vienna: her web address is www.wearhairforyou.com.
change without risk. She can go from black to brown to red, short to long. Whatever the weather or time constraints, I know that I’m two fluffs from being ready,” Laura explained to me, using her fingers to ruffle her alternative hair. Sure enough, it fell into place. Prior to getting into this business, Laura was in an image-conscious job and needed to look good all the time. “Alternative hair was perfect for me,” she said. It was also perfect as a business. She took all her savings, bought inventory and jumped in. Before long, she had a two-year contract with INOVA Fairfax
Hospital. Not surprisingly, Laura comes from a family of entrepreneurs. “Owning a business is hard and I’m extremely humble and grateful for what I have,” Laura admits. “This is hands-on MBA. If you don’t do well, you don’t get a bad grade on paper but a bad grade in credit, in your bank account or psyche.” She adds, “Failure is not an option. You may not always make the right choices, but, hopefully, you won’t sink the entire battleship. I’m still here and I’m still learning.” Laura credits her success to a supportive
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hair salon. Her motto—Never Have a Bad
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enrichment programs for children B y S aman t h a Lerner
Samantha Lerner is a rising senior at Fairfax High School. She loves going out with friends, working out at the gym, and the summertime. Samantha is Editorin-Chief of her school’s yearbook and is also on the newspaper staff.
Gymini Gymnastic Club A favorite among Fairfax moms and conveniently located off the Fairfax County Parkway (VA 7100), Gymini Gymnastic Club offers small classes taught by qualified instructors. Programs cater to all levels of athletes, ranging from tot classes to competitive team gymnastics. Tuition varies. l Ph: (703) 471-6088 Address: 292 Sunset Park Dr, Herndon, VA 20170 Website: gyminigymnastics.com
Shadowland Adventures For moms with school-aged children and teens, Shadowland is the place to go for high octane, laser adventure. Beyond the special effects and fog, a laser tag adventure promises an unforgettable active experience. Cost ranges from $7.75 (1 Adventure) to $20.50 (Triple Play). l Springfield | Ph: 703-921-1004 Address: 5508 Franconia Rd. Springfield, VA 22310 Website: shadowlandadventures.com l Chantilly | Ph: 703-263-1004 Address: 4300 Chantilly Shopping Center (Dulles Expo Shopping Center) Chantilly, VA 20151
Twin Oaks Riding Academy Twin Oaks Riding Academy is the perfect place for wannabe American Girls® (or boys) to learn the fundamentals about horseback riding. This academy offers riding lessons and
camps, including junior riding lessons for ages 6-9. Lessons are priced by the package (Junior Rider Lesson Packages include eight 30-minute lessons for $310). l Ph: 703-723-3200 Gum Spring Rd. Chantilly, VA Website: twinoaksriding.com
Gymboree Play and Music Founded in 1976 by Joan Barnes, a mother from CA, Gymboree has been fostering creativity and confidence in children ages 0-5 for over 30 years. Their programs are specifically designed to help young children learn and develop as they play. l Fairfax | Ph: 703-273-4708 Location: Fair Oaks Mall l Tyson’s Corner | Ph: 703-790-8858 Location: Tyson’s Corner Center l Springfield | Ph: 703-313-9738 Location: Springfield Mall l Dulles | Ph: 703-433-0991 Location: Dulles Town Center l Pentagon | Ph: 703-415-5009 Location: 1100 South Hayes Street Arlington, VA 22202 Website: gymboree.com
At Play Cafe While Moms hang with friends and sip coffee, little ones can play in At Play Café’s beautifully decorated play area or take art, music or yoga classes. Admission to the play area is $8 per first child, $6 per additional sibling, with a season’s pass option for $120 for 3 months of unlimited play visits. Classes average $16-$20 per class. l Ph: 703-391-6131. Address: 2254B Hunters Woods Plaza Reston, VA 20191 Website: atplaycafe.com
Jordan Kitt’s Music
Offering developmental Play, Music & Art classes from birth to 5 years. CHANTILLY | SPRINGFIELD | ALEXANDRIA
703.836.2277 * Valid at participating Play & Music locations only. See your local Play & Music location for other restrictions and details.
68 IAMMODERN.COM
For those musically-motivated toddlers, Jordan Kitt’s is a great option. It includes all types of keyboard/piano lessons, from group to private lessons. Experts will teach your kids the fine arts of both modern and classical piano styles. l Fairfax | Ph: 703-573-6070 Address: 8500 Lee Highway Fairfax VA, 22031 Website: jordankitts.com l Sterling | Ph: 703-450-5398 Address: 47100 Community Plaza, Ste. 102 Sterling VA, 20164
Color Me Mine Located in the heart of Fairfax at Fairfax Corner, Color Me Mine offers kids a chance to express their artistic feelings by painting their own pieces of hand-selected pottery. Color Me Mine is a treat for all ages. You, moms, will enjoy it too, as you can actually use your kids’ pottery pieces in your households after they have been glazed and fired. l Ph: 703-803-7246 Address: 4209 Fairfax Corner Avenue East Fairfax Corner Fairfax, Virginia Website: fairfax.colormemine.com
FONZ FONZ, or Friends of the National Zoo, offers many classes and camps, in which kids can learn about the importance of animal care, conservation, and zoology. The National Zoo also provides separate adult classes on similar topics with more in-depth studies. l Ph: 202-633-3038 Address: 3001 Connecticut Ave. NW Washington, DC 20008 Website: nationalzoo.si.edu
Cake Decorating With Donna Who DOESN’T love a tastylooking homemade treat? At Cake Decorating With Donna in Annandale, kids have the opportunity to learn how to design their own snazzy cakes and cupcakes. In addition to online instructions, students are also given frequent online updates of the latest and greatest decorating crazes. Website: cakedecoratingwithdonna.com
Fit Academy At Centreville’s Lifetime Fitness, 7-11 year olds have no problem getting BUFF with Lifetime’s Fit Academy. This comprehensive exercise program meets twice a week and is aimed at children who want to become more physically active or involved in sports. Don’t worry…this program may sound like a ‘baby boot camp,’ but its instructors undoubtedly incorporate tons of fun for the kids! l Ph: 703-815-5122 Address: 5900 Trinity Parkway Centreville, VA 20120 Website: mylt.com
The Little Gym With locations all over Northern Virginia; including Fairfax, Springfield, Alexandria, Gainesville, and Ashburn; The Little Gym makes learning basic sports skills easy and convenient. Your kids will benefit from their positive non-competitive environment. Sports such as gymnastics, dance, and karate are all taught in basic step-by-step classes, which progress at each child’s personal pace. l Fairfax | Ph: 703-818-9600
Address: 4211 Fairfax Corner East Ave Suite 210 Fairfax, VA 22030 Website: tlgfairfaxva.com l Springfield | Ph: 703-455-4410 Address: 8056 Rolling Road Springfield, VA 22153 Website: tlgspringfieldva.com l Alexandria | Ph: 703-971-4FUN Address: 6911 Telegraph Road The Shops at Telegraph Alexandria, VA 22310 Website: tlgalexandria-hmva.com l Gainesville | Ph: 703-753-9101 Address: 7364 Atlas Walk Way Gainesville, VA 20155 Website: tlggainesvilleva.com l Ashburn | Ph: 703-723-0011 Address: 43330 Junction Plaza Suite 180 Ashburn, VA 20147-3407 Website: www.tlgashburnva.com
Baby Ballerina Catering to all youngsters 15 months to 6 years old, Baby Ballerina puts a magical step in kids’ feet. All classes are under an hour long, which makes it easy for moms to run a few quick errands or to take a brief moment to relax. l Ph: 703-430-3033 Address: 22360 South Sterling BLVD Suite D-101 Sterling VA 20164 (right next to Safeway) Website: babyballerina.net
Newseum The Newseum, one of D.C.’s freshest new attractions, provides a number of educational courses every Monday-Friday at no charge (you do, however, still have to pay to get into the museum). Classes at the Newseum are meant for pre-teens and teens interested in journalism and/or media history. l Ph: 202-292-6661 Address: 555 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W., Washington, DC 20001 Website: newseum.org
Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center Kids with curious tendencies and explorer mindsets will be enthralled with the teachings of the Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center. The SEEC teaches children facts related to the multiple D.C. Smithsonian museums. After instilling those facts, the SEEC physically SHOWS kids what they learned about, by way of
the museums. MOMS BEWARE: Selections for the SEEC are done by application and lottery…so get your kids signed up for the SEEC, ASAP! l Ph: 202-633-2945 Address: National Museum of Natural History Room CE-G50 MRC 184 Washington, DC 20013 Website: seec.si.edu
Go to www.iammodern.com Click KIDS to find the full listing
The lessons your child learns at The Little Gym will fill you both with pride: How to reach higher. How to listen better. How to tackle challenges with confidence and a smile. Call to schedule a free introductory class. Learn more at TheLittleGym.com..
They always leave a little taller. parent/ child classes
preschool/ kindergarten gymnastics
grade school gymnastics
sports skills development
karate
dance
The Little Gym of Ashburn www.tlgashburnva.com · 703-723-0011 The Little Gym of Fairfax www.tlgfairfaxva.com · 703-818-9600 The Little Gym of Gainesville www.tlggainesvilleva.com · 703-753-9101
cheerleading
camp
birthday parties
parents’ survival night
IAMMODERN.COM 69
Kidz Act
9 North King Street Leesburg, VA 20176
Acting Classes for Children & Teens Opportunity to be apart of Plays and Traveling Performances Winter 2010
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Broadway Bound
4yrs to Kindergarten
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Fairytale Theater
l
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A Unique Stroller Bootcamp. An Amazing Workout. Fall 2009 Classes Enrolling Now!
3yr-4yrs
You Should be in Stories l
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4yrs to Kindergarten
“Mommy Popp-ins” dress-up for kids coffee for moms
Triple Threat
washington apple drink In a glass of ice add: 3/4 oz of Sour Apple Pucker 3/4 oz of Crown Royal 3/4 oz of cranberry juice
1st - 6th grade
Theatre Workshop 1st - 6th grade
Ages 10+: Audition Workshop Monologue Study l
dress-up birthday parties too!
Christine S. Heckman-Denning | Director/Owner
703.625.6280
Fall Drinks
info@kidzactleesburg.com | www.kidzactleesburg.com
tootsie roll martini In mixing tin: 1/2 oz Kahlua 1/2 oz Dark Creme de Cacao 1/2 oz Frangelica Fill with orange juice. Pour in Martini glass and drop in two candy corns for garnish.
girl scout cookie martini The green color makes this a great holiday drink.
Drizzle a martini glass with chocolate syrup and then pour in mixture. Garnish with a Thin Mint cookie on side of glass. 70 IAMMODERN.COM
S t or y b y M a t t h e w D u l e y
In mixing tin: 3/4 oz Creme de Cacao 3/4 oz Green Creme de Mint 1/2 oz Bailey’s Splash of cream
Escape to...
The Medical Spa at Nova A different kind of medical spa, the Medical Spa at Nova combines advanced skin care and massage therapy with traditional spa therapies from across the globe to promote whole body wellness. Escape the stresses of everyday and enjoy relaxing with quality spa treatments from around the world here in Loudoun County.
Warm Shea Butter Body Wrap Chemical Peels Laser Hair Removal Beyond Botox Facial Hydrotherapy Botox & Cosmetic Fillers Microdermabrasion Personal Training & Fitness Programs Sweet & Savory Brown Sugar Body Scrub Therapeutic Massage Reflexology Nova Slim & Sculpt Body Treatment Ayurvedic Services FREE Hot Paraffin Hand Treatment ($20 Value)
with the purchase of any 50 minute facial *Cannot be combined with any other coupon or discount. Expires 11/28/09
www.novamedspa.com 21785 Filigree Court - Ashburn, Virginia 20147 For further information and directions, please call 703.554.1130
“Ultimate Prevention, Restorative Therapy and Personal Aesthetic Care.�
IAM
Hollywood Mom Interview
emme:
I
more to love
Why living well just might be the best revenge
72 IAMMODERN.COM
Emme Aronson, is one of these women who, even over the phone, both inspires and energizes. While interviewing her for I Am Modern, it became very clear that she is also, one very smart businesswoman. She attended Syracuse University on a full scholarship for crew and excelled both academically and athletically. After graduation, Emme went on to become the first plus-size model to attain supermodel status. That was just the beginning.
Emme is a vocal advocate for people of all ages to be fit and live a healthy lifestyle. One of her main messages is aimed at increasing awareness and raising funds to help treat eating and body image disorders. “We live in a society that is based upon the attainment of unrealistic beauty. I want women to know their self-esteem is not contingent upon their dress size.” Obviously, this message is something that she wants her 8-year-old daughter, Toby, to integrate. But she also has another important piece of advice for her. “We talk a lot about mindfulness. If we’re eating a meal, to be mindful about eating. To attain a peacefulness so that we’re not talking over each
other. Our society seems to be bursting for attention, ‘I need a hug, or I need to talk to you.’ Being mindful allows you to just stop and listen.” Diagnosed last May with stage 2A Hodgkin’s disease—a form of lymphoma that is often curable with chemotherapy and radiation—Emme has adopted a holistic lifestyle which includes daily juicing, aromatherapy, a raw foods diet, meditation and yoga. Her bout with cancer has made Emme aware that life goes by quickly. “We’re either wishing for the future or mourning the past. We need to see what’s really going on today.” Emme credits her girlfriends with being important components in her recovery. “I
S t or y b y V a l Cava l h eri
“I’m not shooting that fatty!” It was 1990 and, with those words, a worldrenowned fashion photographer walked out on the soon-to-be supermodel as she was being made up for her first assignment. Fighting back tears, Emme called her agent and the photographer unenthusiastically returned to complete his obligation for Vogue magazine. Six years later, after appearances on dozens of magazine covers and numerous accolades, Emme ran into the photographer again. This time, he went out of his way to introduce himself. Emme reminded him that they had already worked together and thanked him for a life lesson. “He taught me so much. If someone has an issue with your appearance, it’s a reflection on what they feel about themselves or their childhood. The sweetest revenge,” she laughed, “is living well.” Living well and making a difference invigorate Emme. Throughout her successful career she is or has been a television personality, author, lecturer, clothing designer, and body image advocate. Her mission remains unchanged: to awaken the inner magnificence inherent in each of us. Not surprisingly, People magazine selected her twice— once in 1994 and again in 1999—for their 50 Most Beautiful People list and Ladies’ Home Journal chose her in 1999 as one of the Most Important Women in America and in 1997 as one of the Most Fascinating Women of the Year. She was honored as a Glamour magazine Woman of the Year in 1997 and as one of Biography magazine’s 25 Most Influential Women.
had twelve chemo buddies, each who gave up a day to serve me.” She is big on girlfriend get-aways. “We need friends to be silly with. When we’re away, we have a nomakeup rule--a time when we can let our hair down and relax.” Emme’s latest venture is as host of “More To Love,” a new dating reality game from executive producer Mike Fleiss of “The Bachelor” and “The Bachelorette” fame. The show, which premiered on July 28 on Fox, will follow a “single and eligible man with a big waist and an even bigger heart as he romances several confident and secure plus-size women.” Of the show, Emme says, “Right now we’re shooting eight episodes, running into September. We’re keeping our fingers crossed that we get picked up.” She added that it is time for a show that provides plenty of evidence that sexiness comes in all shapes and sizes, something she has advocated to curvy women for years. And to prove how times have changed, before the show even started, FanCast.com named Emme as one of their 10 Sexy Stars Who Heat Up Summer TV. w
Your Neighborhood Pediatrician
Ashburn at Ryan Park 43480 Yukon Drive, #206 Ashburn, VA 20147 703-723-3201 703-729-2736 (fax)
Sleepy Hollow* 2946 Sleepy Hollow Road, 3B Falls Church, VA 22044 703-534-1000 703-536-7763 (fax)
Countryside* 14 Pidgeon Hill Drive, #130 Sterling, VA 20165 703-444-1144 703-444-6679 (fax)
Herndon* 12950 Highland Crossing Drive, H Herndon, VA 20171 703-860-4200 703-860-1528 (fax)
Vienna* 410 Maple Avenue West, #5 Vienna, VA 22180 703-938-2244
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S t or y b y V a l Cava l h eri
All patients seen at Ryan Park
*Evening and Weekend appointments available
www.capitalareapediatrics.com IAMMODERN.COM 73
Restaurant Review ‘‘eat
our words
‘‘
Zaytinya
701 9th Street NW Washington, D.C. 20001 202-638-0800
Amoo’s House of Kabob
6271-A Old Dominion Drive McLean, VA 22101 703-448-8500
The Majestic Café 911 King Street Alexandria,VA 22314 703-837-9117 www.majesticcafe.com
2941 Restaurant 2941 Fairview Park Drive Falls Church, VA 22042 703-270-1500 www.2941.com
Desiderio Italian American Grill 7960 Crescent Park Drive Gainesville, VA 20155 571-248-0660 www.desideriorestaurant.com
Charlie Palmer Steak House
101 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, D.C., 20001 202-547-8100 www.charliepalmer.com
Mediterranean Breeze 20693 Ashburn Road, #100 Ashburn, VA 20147 703-726-1045 www.mediterranean breezeashburn.com
74 IAMMODERN.COM
Zaytinya: Much Like Olive Oil, Easily Floats to the Top Among Peers
Zaytinya S t or y b y M u ra t A k s u
Z aytinya means olive oil in Turkish written as Zeytinyag. The wild olive trees originated in Asia Minor, today’s Turkey, five thousand years ago and they have been spreading around the world ever since. Today 95% of the world’s olive trees are cultivated in the Mediterranean region and the oil of this bountiful fruit acts as the binding agent for the majority of the common dishes cooked in the region. In fact, the diet of Turks, Greeks, Spaniards, Italians, Israelis and the Lebanese are close cousins, bounded by olive oil and spread by the large empires that dominated the region for thousands of years. So it is no surprise that the ingenious Spanish Chef José Andrés named his establishment Zaytinya when he decided to open his restaurant, combining the best dishes of the region served in large meze or tapas sizes. Though the restaurant has been around since 2003, Zaytinya is still a hip and happening place. I visited this restaurant on several occasions with my wife, on a date night, as well as with a large group of friends and I find that each outing has its distinct charm. On a date with my wife, we enjoyed finding a cozy spot and talking without being interrupted by our kids. We also took small breaks to people watch and enjoyed looking at the eclectic variety of patrons. With our friends, the aura was much more of a party atmosphere, sustained by multiple bottles of wine, pitchers of Sangria and the sampling of numerous dishes from the region that makes you feel like you are sailing in the Mediterranean.
Dishes like Baba Ghannouge, a fluffy puree of fire-roasted eggplant mixed with sesame tahini, tangy lemon juice, pureed garlic and, of course, olive oil are part of the quintessential dishes of the region. They are accompanied by meat and poultry dishes like Adana Kebab, a skewered ground lamb spiced with house made harissa red sauce, grilled tomatoes and served with a sumac onion salad. If you are more of a chicken person, try the Shish Taouk which is succulent grilled chicken served with onion salad infused with sumak, and grilled tomatoes. Sailing around the Mediterranean could not be fueled without the seafood platters like Barbounia Skordalia, which is a beer battered and fried red mullet plated with a potato-garlic puree or the Santorini style grilled baby octopus served with capers and yellow split pea puree. Zaytinya should be a regular on your schedule of dining locations. While it is a great get together or date night destination, earlier in the evening, kids are also welcome. So bring the kids, get a sitter or go out with the girls. Whatever you do, you will love Zaytinya.
Best Food Around
Amoo’s House of Kabob S t or y b y M u ra t A k s u
As you approach the door of Amoo’s, located in an unassuming mini strip mall, a temporary banner sign greets you “Best Food Around.” I could not think of a better way to describe this restaurant. Do not go to Amoo’s for the ambiance, as you will be disappointed. You may not even want
to go for the service, as I will explain a little later. Do go for the best kabobs in the McLean area. When you walk through the door, you are greeted with customary Persian tile and marble contractor displays. Ignore those. They have nothing to do with the food you are about to have. Service is going to be slow; be prepared and ignore your waiter/waitress’ attitude. Our waiter du jour was a young teenager who spoke at a frequency that could only be understood by bats. We communicated by pointing to what we wanted on the menu. As an appetizer, order either the Mast-o Mooseer, which is a chopped sun-dried Persian shallots in yoghurt, or the Mast-o khiyar, which is diced cucumbers in yogurt flavored with crushed dried mint leaves. They are served with thin flat bread and you will be 100% satisfied with the refreshing taste of these appetizers. When we tried to order our main dishes, here is how we think our conversation went with our waiter. I Am Modern: We would like to order two Barg kabobs, please. Waiter: We only have ……. I Am Modern: I am sorry I can’t hear you. Waiter: We only have one ……bob I Am Modern: By the way you moved your lips, I think you said, “We only have one Barg kabob left.” In that case, we will order a Barg kabob and a Joojeh kabob with bone. Barg is the sultan of all Persian kabobs and it is pretty unbelievable that they would run out, but I guess it is
that is cut into eight pieces. They are marinated with saffron and grilled over open fire. Both kabobs were served with Persian rice, white onions and grilled tomatoes. We are glad to tell you that the kabobs were tender, juicy and very tasty. Clearly, it is the best food around the McLean area.
Regal Landmark with a Youthful and Artisanal Savor
The Majestic Café
A great alternative to standard after school care
S t or y b y M u ra t A k s u
because they sell so much of it. Barg or filet kabob is prepared from centercut filet mignon marinated with saffron. It is skewered and cooked over an open fire which gives it that distinctive charcoal flavor. Joojeh kabob can be had in two different versions: with or without bone. We prefer the with bone version as the bone marrow adds to the succulent taste of the meat. This kabob gets its name from the young Cornish hen
Majestic Café has been in operation on King Street since 1932. Starting in 2007, it has been operating with the addition of new investors, including Virginia Governor Mark Warner, and a very talented chef, Shannon Overmiller. I decided to give Majestic a try during a busy Friday lunch time. As you enter this landmark, everything including the beautiful full bar looks the same, yet updated. The walls are painted with light-colored paint and the giant framed mirrors add depth to this narrow restaurant. In the tray ceiling, cascading dry wall is mixed with old style silver-colored metal panels. Directly in front of you is the open kitchen, slightly elevated and buzzing with the chef ’s energy. You look up one minute and she is
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Restaurant Review
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behind the counter busily cooking. Next time you see her, she is walking around and carefully watching happy customers devour her creations. I am told by my waitress that with the exception of the butter, which is made by the Amish, everything including breads, chips, pickles (more on them later) and pasta is made in the house. While looking at the menu, I keep busy by nibbling on freshly made country-style bread with Amish butter and drinking homemade ginger soda. For the first course, I order the chicken liver pate, fried green tomatoes and the fried local oysters. More like a mousse, the chicken liver pate is served with toasted country bread and lightly drizzled with dark, tart syrup of reduced balsamic vinegar. The pate is lightly textured and creamy with a satisfying snap when you bite into it. Ten seconds into my first bite, I am amazed by the powerful yet delightful tidal wave of after-kick gusto. I have always been a fan of fried green tomatoes since the movie of the same name starring Kathy Bates was released in 1991. Majestic’s version of this quintessential southern dish is sure to make you feel like you are back in nouveau Atlanta. It is served over a bed of roasted peppers, julienned eggplants, pine nuts and fresh oregano. The sliced tomato is topped with a thin piece of fresh mozzarella and served with Nicoise olive aioli and homemade French cornichon and pearl onion pickles. You will re-order this dish just to eat the olive aioli and the pickles. Out of the three, I keep the best one to the end: the fried local oysters. Chef Shannon gets these delivered by a local micro farmer from a secret southern Virginia location where the waters are still clean. They are divine. Flash fried and served over a tangy parsley remoulade, the oysters are succulent, soft and feathery. I want to ask for a fresh baguette and make a heavenly po-boy for myself. For the main course, I try the roasted turkey sandwich and the Majestic steak and cheese sandwich. The turkey sandwich is made with sliced avocados, delicious bacon, spring lettuce and tomatoes. The sandwich bread is buttered and grilled which forms a rich layer of crust on the outside. On the side are homemade fried chips and more pickles. I give high marks to the sandwich and the pickles, but the chips were over-fried for my taste. Majestic’s version of the steak and cheese is wrapped in parchment paper and served with French fries and two types of dipping sauce: aioli
and an enticing rosé. The steak is complimented with wild mushrooms, caramelized onions, a generous heap of provolone cheese, spring lettuce and sliced tomatoes and served on ciabatta bread. Like its Lake Como-style cousin, it has a crisp crust, a somewhat soft, porous texture and is light to the touch. It is the perfect choice for this rustic all American sandwich. The Majestic Café, in their own words, stands for “Pure and Simple Rustic American” food dished up by a youthful and pleasantly dedicated staff. The café has been a part of our town since 1932 and will likely be here for another seventy-five years.
2941 Restaurant S t or y b y M u ra t A k s u
The company website describes this restaurant as a “visual and culinary adventure” and I wholeheartedly agree. Nestled behind landscaped woods, 2941 is not in a place that you will easily notice driving by. In fact, even with assistance from my GPS, I missed the location on my first try. Driving up on the narrow, winding road, you are greeted by a beautifully designed glass and metal office building. 2941 occupies the bottom floor directly facing the big man-made pond. The entrance to the restaurant is adorned with waterfalls and Koi ponds featuring numerous large, colorful Japanese fish. Inside, you are greeted and seated at your table by the friendly maitre d’, Rachid LaKroune. The menu is designed by French executive chef Bertrand Chemel who served as Chef de Cuisine of Café Boulud in the Upper East Side of New York. The lunch menu featured a $29.41 Prix Fixe similar to the one at Charlie Palmer Steak House in D.C. In these tough economic times, Prix Fixe lunches are some of the best ways you can still enjoy delightfully brilliant food in luxurious establishments. At 2941, I started with lobster bisque cooked with French Sauternes wine, tarragon and lemon. The soup had a pinch of lobster meat in the middle and was appetizing, albeit a little runny for my taste. For the main course, I enjoyed both the grilled lamb loin and the grilled swordfish. The grilled swordfish was one of the best I have ever had. Chef Bertrand managed to infuse it with a smoky grilled taste while preserving a tender, moist and succulent filet. It was served over thinly sliced heirloom tomatoes and scallions while the filet
is covered with citrus-ancho chile that is sweetened with honey. The tender grilled lamb loin could not have been any softer. The only thing I did not particularly care for in this dish was the fattiness of the two pieces that I was served. I found the best part of this dish to be the succulent roasted corn risotto with pickled ramps (wild leeks) and white asparagus. To go with my main dish, I tried a fabulous 2006 Hamacher Pinot Noir Rose from Oregon. The wine had a beautiful salmon color, great acidity and fruitiness. It was a perfect match for my food and I recommend it for your fall BBQs. For dessert, I tried the orange crepes served with Grand Marnier ice cream and orchard strawberries and a quartet of seasonal sorbets featuring lemon thyme, strawberry, rhubarb and pineapple. The crepe was spongy, light and perfectly accented with the ice cream. Out of the four flavors of the sorbets, I liked the lemon thyme the best for its distinctly zesty flavor. While waiting for my check, I noticed that some of the patrons were eating perfectly round beignets. I inquired about them and thirty seconds later my waiter showed up with a plate of the warm Citrus Beignets. The size of Swedish meatballs, they are perfectly round, lightly glazed and refreshingly infused with citrus flavor. A true French delight. Visit 2941 and make sure to take your friends with you to enjoy the food as well as the heavenly scenery.
Desiderio ItalianAmerican Grill S t or y b y A l i V ona l
Northern Virginia. It is known as the lover’s state, has some of the most historical areas in the country, is famous for its’ wineries, and gorgeous sceneries. Lastly and most importantly, NoVA is home to a host of wonderful culinary gems hidden away inside the plethora of mini malls that dot the landscape. While this phenomenon is more apparent east of Manassas, things seem to be changing for those of us living in historically overlooked areas. Enter Desiderio, a new Italian restaurant in Gainesville that I happened upon a few days ago. Like so many other NoVA hotspots, Desiderio is located in a mini mall.
The restaurant is nicely decorated with contemporary features, but isn’t the least bit pretentious. The dining room has an inviting setup that isn’t cluttered or messy looking and the owners did a wonderful job designing an area that is at the same time cozy as it is open. A good waiter is hard to find at mid priced restaurants. Let’s face it, either they have no experience waiting tables, or they have been around far too long to care about the temperature of your steak. My server was a delightful young man named Sunny. I do recommend sitting in his section, as he was spot on. He was polite, calm and collected and not too talkative. which is such a plus. For an appetizer I ordered the Sautéed Mussels, which were really very delicious. The mussels were sautéed in a deliciously flavorful white wine sauce and accented with apples and pancetta and finally served with toasted bread. For the entrées, I tried the Lasagna Casserole and the cheese ravioli, which were both exceptionally delicious. The Casserole was a true signature dish, one I will be ordering again in the very near future. Served piping hot, it is made with fresh vegetables, house-made pasta and mozzarella and finished with a delightful Bolognese. A rather large dish, order this one if you are hungry or ready to share. The ravioli is made with aged Parmesan, ricotta, and a house-made mozzarella cheese and is served with a fantastic marinara sauce and garnished with wilted spinach. The owners have also given special attention to their smaller patrons. Their tasted and true Kid’s Menu is original and not confusing. Kids can custom create their own pasta dishes by picking their pasta, sauce and meat. The dishes were wonderful, the service near perfect, and the atmosphere inviting. I think Gainesville and nearby residents should flock to this restaurant and give it a try.
Charlie Palmer Steak House S t or y b y M u ra t A k s u
To most, Charlie Palmer does not need an introduction. If you have never heard of this famous chef or his restaurants, he is the flagship chef of progressive American cuisine. His original establishment, Aureole, is one of the anchors of the mid-town restaurant scene in New York. His D.C. restaurant is located in the corner building of the United Brotherhood
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Restaurant Review of Carpenters headquarters directly across from the Capitol. I spend many hours dining and wining clients at the Charlie Palmer Steak Houses in D.C. and Las Vegas. The interior of the restaurants is a fusion of Asian tranquility with northern European edgy sophistication. The D.C. location has a long water pool inlayed with perfectly rounded rocks in the center of the restaurant. Directly above the pool is the giant glass see-through wine cellar. Tough economic conditions are hurting every institution including luxury establishments, they are fighting back. Take, for instance, Charlie Palmer’s $25 Prix Fixe Lunch Menu. I started with the House Smoked Salmon which is served over a bed of tartar and fingerling potato salad. The smoked salmon was of top quality and it was melt-in-the-mouth tender with a lovely texture and flavor. The smoking was subtle and in balance with the flavor of the fish meat without a hint of the artificial flavorings or colorings that we have sadly become accustomed to finding
I prefer my panna cotta served with wild berries, but I think Charlie Palmer is on to something with the delicate fusion of Marcona, coconut sorbet and the panna cotta. At these affordable prices, in these settings, do not miss the chance to pamper yourself without breaking the bank. Go out and have fun in style. in our foods. For the main course, I selected the roasted Angus sirloin served with shitake and snow pea risotto. This was a great combination of tender, flavorful Angus sirloin with elegant creamy risotto complemented by juicy shitake mushrooms. For dessert, I tried the navel orange panna cotta served with Marcona almond and coconut sorbet. Panna cotta is a northern Italian dessert made by simmering together cream, milk and sugar. Gelatin is added to the mix and the dessert is cooled until set. Marcona is an almond variety that is shorter, rounder, sweeter and more delicate in texture than other varieties. Originating in Spain, they are fast becoming popular in North America.
Your Typical Greek and Italian Restaurant?
Mediterranean Breeze S t or y b y M u ra t A k s u
Greek and Italian cooking are two of the major cuisines in the world. So why would anyone decide to merge the two? I do not know the answer to that, but the end result is a menu with more than a hundred items. I did not try anyone of the Italian foods off the menu, but concentrated on the Greek dishes that are native to the owner’s country of origin.
Let us start with the soup. Avgolemono, which was also a staple of my mother’s dinner table when I was growing up in Istanbul, is a creamy base made with chicken broth, orzo, egg and lemon. The orzo is cooked in chicken broth. A well-beaten egg and lemon juice are added in the end to give it that creamy texture. In Istanbul, we call this process “taming the soup.” This soup may very easily become your new comfort food. Next, I tried the gyro platter, my son ordered chicken tenders and my three-year-old daughter went for the pasta with marinara sauce from the kid’s menu. The gyro platter is piled with enough food for two people. The taste of the gyro was generally good. I think the slices could have been cut a little thinner which would have made the gyro pieces leafier. My kids were both impressed with the taste of their food. The chicken was tender and the marinara sauce was rich, thick and flavorful. If you happen to be biking in and around Ashburn, this should be a great lunch stop for you.
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wine bars
Latest Hip Scene
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These establishments are gaining in popularity and, we predict, will become as commonplace as coffee shops, pubs and sports bars.
S t or y b y K u mar I y er
Wine bars are the newest places to see and be seen. These establishments are gaining in popularity and, we predict, will become as commonplace as coffee shops, pubs and sports bars. You only need to walk around DC to see how popular wine bars have become: Urbana on P Street NW, Mendocino Grille and Wine Bar on M Street NW, Cork on 14th Street NW, and Veritas on Florida Avenue NW, to name just a few. The phenomenon stems from a growing interest in trying a variety of wines at one sitting without the morning hangover.
Customers receive small pourings of flights, which are two to three ounces of three or four different wines served together, usually as a theme. Find a wine you like? Go ahead and ask for a full glass or even a half or full bottle. Most wine bars have created dishes to complement their wines and offer them as small bites, finger foods or Spanishstyle tapas. Zen Bistro and Wine Bar in Arlington has designed an Asian fare to go with their elixirs. We visited and are recommending two local wine bars:
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The Wine Kitchen 7 South King Street, Leesburg, VA 20175 703-777-WINE (9463) www.thewinekitchen.com A great addition to the Leesburg dining scene, the forty-seat restaurant on South King Street has been getting a lot of attention since opening their doors late last year. In going with the current trend of nodécor-is-the-new-décor, the Wine Kitchen sports bare bulbs and café-like blackboard menus. Wines are sold by tastings, glass or bottle and patrons are given a $10 discount when a bottle is purchased to go. We recommend the eclectic flights. My friend tried a trio of rosés and nodded in approval, while I went with the local wines. In keeping with the owner’s efforts to support and give back to the community, the restaurant takes advantage of the variety of local and organic ingredients raised by area farmers. The Wine Kitchen’s signature dish is the Chicken Waffles which
consists of crisp, fried quail on cornmeal waffles with bacon caramel syrup. Unlike your typical potato type, Parisian Herb Gnocchi is a delicately sautéed dough with vegetables. Another entrée of note is the Flat Iron Steak, a skirt steak drizzled with thick chimichuri sauce. The portion sizes augment the tastings and allow you to experience various menu items as well. The Wine Kitchen does have a menu for kids, but we recommend that you hire a sitter and enjoy the atmosphere and hip scene.
Vinifera Wine Bar & Bistro 11750 Sunrise Valley Drive Reston, VA 20191 703-234-3550 www.viniferabistro.com Located in Reston’s Westin Hotel, Vinifera is an upscale eatery with a contemporary interior. An informed sommelier in tow, this place has a Cruvinet wine dispensing
and storage system that keeps twenty-four bottles at the correct temperature. The restaurant’s wine cellar is also temperature and humidity controlled with over 200 labels to choose from including a decent collection of organic wines. As with other wine bars, flights are offered in two-ounce pours. If you are interested in a larger portioned meal, we recommend pairing the wines in the lounge with the small plates as an appetizer and moving to the dining room for the second course. There, you can select the Vinifera Paella, a free-style paella of sausage, chicken, mussels and shrimp. Cognizant of being a hotel eatery, kidfriendly chicken tenders, pizza and pasta are served on request. More of a destination, Vinifera is not the usual sip and sample joint; it is great for dates, intimate dinners and unwinding after a stressful day.
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Contest Winner
funniest mom
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What she has tubes? I have 4 kids and I am also a nurse in a busy Neonatal ICU, working mostly night shifts. So I tend to spend a lot of time in a “fog” while still tending to everyone’s needs and events. I took my youngest for an ENT check-up when she was four, and the doctor looked in her ear and said, “That ear tube is in good position.” Totally caught off guard, I blurted out “WHAT??? She has tubes???” I had completely forgotten that the doctor had placed them like 2 years beforehand!
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Anne O’Brian
After having multiple ear tubes amongst my kids, it was such a routine procedure for our family, that it hadn’t even made an impression on me! Runner Up Christina Spindler She did… WHAT?! Ok, so I have the best kid story to beat all kid stories! My daughter Bianca has been taking a shower by herself for years now. I sent her up the other night to take a shower and all of a sudden my husband and I hear hysterical screaming coming from the bathroom. We are worried that she has fallen and really hurt herself in the bathtub. We both go running
upstairs to see what is the matter, (side note, a 7 month pregnant woman running upstairs is not a pretty sight). Well, she is freaking out because her belly button is inside out. YES… INSIDE OUT!!! Her “innie” is now an “outtie”. It is swollen looking and red and just all out FREAKY!!! I am ready to deal with blood and stitches and she has sucked out her belly button. I am sure that you are wondering how something like this happens… well she had an empty body wash bottle that she was playing with… I am sure you can begin to see where this is going… she was playing with it and squeezed the air out and put it on her belly button and then used it to suck her belly button out. I am the most horrible mother ever because at this point she is freaking out and crying and I am hysterical with laughter. I could not help myself … I’m guessing you had to be there to get the whole comic effect but I was having a hard time trying to control myself. Well after a call to the doctors office which the Nurse was apologizing for laughing on the phone… I am sure that is not a call they get all the time… we gave her a Motrin and sent her to bed. It was back to normal in the morning but OMG the things that no one tells you about being a parent!!! w
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