Lake Norman Woman Magazine January 2017 by Lake Norman Woman Magazine

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FITNESS TRACKERS

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GETTING UNSTUCK

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MINDFULNESS

2017 financial goals Reflect. Review. Revise. This year, resolve to understand how all the pieces of your complex financial life can work together to help you meet your goals. Speak with us about making a sensible plan designed to manage your wealth... with your life in mind. It’s what we call: Advice. Beyond investing. Schedule a complimentary consultation today.

The Stoner Group Charles C. Stoner Senior Vice President– Wealth Management

Eileen Stoner, CRPC® Senior Vice President–Wealth Management Chartered Retirement Planning CounselorSM

Charles M. Stoner Financial Advisor

Amy Lowe Financial Advisor

UBS Financial Services Inc. 16810 Kenton Drive, Suite 310, Huntersville, NC 28078 6100 Fairview Road, 9th Floor, Charlotte, NC 28210 704-765-3254 855-541-0917 toll free stoner.group@ubs.com ubs.com/team/thestonergroup For designation disclosures visit ubs.com/us/en/designation-disclosures.html As a firm providing wealth management services to clients, we offer both investment advisory and brokerage services, which are separate and distinct and differ in material ways. For information, including the different laws and contracts that govern, visit ubs.com/ workingwithus. UBS Financial Services Inc. and its affiliates do not provide legal or tax advice. Clients should consult with their legal and tax advisors regarding their personal circumstances. © UBS 2016. The key symbol and UBS are among the registered and unregistered trademarks of UBS. All rights reserved. UBS Financial Services Inc. is a subsidiary of UBS AG. Member FINRA. Member SIPC.Ad_4.01_8.625x11.125_LN1129_Stoner

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STAFF

PUBLISHER DANA NIETERS

dana@lakenormanwoman.com

volume x, number viii

January first things first

EDITOR AMY HALLMAN

amy@lakenormanwoman.com

OPERATIONS SUPPORT & CONTRIBUTING WRITER LESLIE OGLE leslie@lakenormanwoman.com

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE STEPHANIE SULLIVAN

stephanie@lakenormanwoman.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE MICHELE SCHUERMANN michele@lakenormanwoman.com

ART DIRECTOR CHELSEA BREN

chelsea@lakenormanwoman.com

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I LO V E T H E C H R I S T M A S S E A S O N ,

but now that the madness—I mean, the magic—has ended, I could use a bit of a break and some time to get my house and my office and my calendar, and … who am I kidding? ... my life in order. After all, pulling off a fantastic holiday experience is quite the endeavor, isn’t it? From Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day, it’s go, go, go. And if you’re the host of the go-to place, there’s the decorating and the cooking and the cleaning and the wrapping and, well, the hosting to add to the mix. It’s no wonder that some of the most popular New Year’s resolutions are to slow down, relax more, and stress less. Since I’m feeling tired and overwhelmed, and I don’t have time for a trip to the beach (my number-one happy place), I’m going to take some time and go to my local happy place. I find myself grinning from ear to ear just thinking about it, and no, it’s not the wine shop. It’s a book store (Although if I’m being honest, the wine store is a very close runner up). I can’t believe I’m going to quote Alec Baldwin, but he captured perfectly the allure of book stores when he once quipped: “Once you walk into a book store, time stands still.” For me, a book store is a magical, wonderful place, a safe haven where I can get lost in dreams. The books they house are much more than just bundles of paper; they’re invitations—passports, really—to different worlds. Like my friend, Mr. Baldwin, I can get lost for hours in the endless shelves of stories and characters that offer as many possibilities as there are pages. What I’m trying to say is that going to a book store has always been one of the ways I relax. Which brings me to my point: we all need to unwind; to take some time to put first things first and to energize our minds and bodies. The real beauty of it all is that there are as many ways to do this as there are people on the planet. It just depends on

whatever works for you. Some people I know go for a run or to the gym; and I have a couple of acquaintances who meditate or journal. I have a lot of girlfriends who drink wine. And apparently, the rich and famous need to unwind as well. I have it on good authority that Ryan Gosling likes to knit, Leonardo DiCaprio tends bees, and Tom Hanks collects vintage manual typewriters. It really doesn’t matter what you do, as long as you give your overworked mind and body a chance to reset. We all get angry. Some of us have good reasons for being angry. I, for one, lose my temper at least once a week over a computer that either doesn’t understand the power dynamic of our relationship or that keeps being inhabited temporarily by evil spirits … I’m still not sure which, but I do feel that my anger is perfectly legitimate. However, I have found that when I’m worn out and stressed, I get angry over things—small things, even—far more quickly and, I can’t believe I’m going to admit this, but maybe even irrationally (please do not tell my husband I ever uttered those words). So if you’ve got post-holiday burn out like me and feel a rage burst coming on that could rival the Hulk’s, it might be time to find your happy place. After all, no one looks good in that color of green. If you don’t have a place or an activity that makes you happy, get one. I’ll even share mine. Meet me at the beach … I’ll be the one with a book in one hand and a glass of wine in the other.

-dana

DANA NIETERS

. PUBLISHER

C O N TAC T D A N A V I A E - M A I L AT D A N A @ L A K E N O R M A N W O M A N . C O M

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DESIGNING EXERCISE SPACES

BECKY JOHNSON,

Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc.

woman

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CONTENTS FEATURES

in every issue 28

WO M E N O N THE M OV E

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5 T H I NG S TO D O I N J ANUA RY

SCENE WI T H L KNW

SHE SAID WHAT?! : First Grade Throwback

A DAY IN THE LIFE: Alicia Waters

HERE SHE IS: Claudia Kepner

COVER STORY: First, Choose Happy!

WOMAN TO WATCH: Julie Jetzer

SUCCESS STORY: Start With Goals, End With Solutions

LISA CRATES PHOTOGRAPHY

NARROWING YOUR FOCUS IN 2017

ALICIA WATERS, ItWorks!

HEALTH 38

JULIE JETZER,

TRACKING FITNESS TRACKERS

Corrective Core & Musculoskeletal Health, LLC

HOME 36

PUTTING FIRST THINGS FIRST WHEN DESIGNING EXERCISE SPACES

SELF 14

5 STRATEGIES TO GET UNSTUCK FROM YOUR RUT

IMPROVING THE NEW YEAR BY PRACTICING MINDFULNESS

MIND, BODY, SPIRIT: Narrowing Your Focus In 2017

{

O N THE C OVER:

JULIE MILLS OF PROGRESSIVE PIL ATES PH OTO G R A PH Y BY:

CHELSEA BREN

CLAUDIA KEPNER, Raymer-Kepner Funeral Home

LISA CRATES PHOTOGRAPHY

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she said what?!

ﬁgrade rst

BECKY JOHNSON

LLS JULIE MI

L E S L I E O G L E, lknw

C H E L S E A B R E N, lknw

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RACHELE

STARR MILLER

DANA NIETE R S, publisher

throwback

Life comes at us fast. We're pulled in different directions and bombarded from every side with decisions to be made and to-do lists to be checked off ... now! This chaos can make us nostalgic for a simpler day—like ﬁrst grade! Check out these photos of some of our staff and contributors from their ﬁrst grade days when livin’ was easy and teeth were at a premium!

lknw S T E P H A N I E S U L L I V A N,

CLAUDIA KEPNER

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JULIE JETZER M I C H E L E S C H U E R M A N N, lknw

AMY HALLMA N, lknw

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A DAY IN THE LIFE…

Alicia Waters

It Works Presidential Diamond

S H E ’ S G OT I T A L L We’re more than wraps! We have products for men and women including skin care, supplements, protein shakes, energy drinks and bars, a total weight-loss system, and now essential oils!

W H E N YO U L E A S T EXPECT IT I wasn’t looking for It Works, but I am forever grateful for It Works ﬁnding me and the amazing changes that came into my life physically and ﬁnancially since joining six years ago. My job now is to help others do the same.

MORE THAN A JOB

My job isn’t a job— it’s a lifestyle of freedom and the ability to help others, all while making a substantial income that offers so many adventures in life! FIRST SET

O F W H E E LS :

1 9 7 6 R E D M G B C O N V E RT I B L E

H I T T I N G T H E R E S E T B U T TO N I reset by making lists. My to-do lists keep me in line and on target to accomplish all that lies before me. And I plan a trip; I ﬁnd my peace and relaxation by traveling and seeing the world. I try to travel at least once a month and always look forward to the adventures ahead! © Gordhorne | Dreamstime.com

FIRST BIG TRIP

When I was 18, I went with my dad and a small mission team to Brazil.

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FIRST LIFE LESSON F RO M DA D My dad always said, “Don’t make your lack of proper planning my emergency.” So, I’ve learned to plan ahead—even over plan—for any situation that might arise.

A LWAYS F I R S T F O R M E I have two beautiful daughters, Kayla and Megan, and almost four years ago, I married my best friend, Aaron. And, of course, there’s our “fur babies,” Sailor, Skipper, and Rio.

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Self RATEGIES TO 5 ST

Get

unstuck From Your Rut Jobs, relationships, life in general—we can all get to a place where we feel stuck. According to research by Rasmussen College, almost 1 in 5 Americans say they are unhappy with their job, and nearly threequarters of those polled are bored in their marriage. Here are some things to consider if you need a little change:

Repeat Your Mantras and Prayers.

The more we repeat and focus on the words that bring change, the more likely it is to come to fruition. It is possible to manifest your dreams.

Set Smaller Goals.

It can be counterproductive to think about the enormity of what needs to be done in order to implement real change in our lives. Set attainable, smaller goals, which are in line with your long-term plans.

Be True to Yourself.

You must be in tune to your authentic self. When we are trying to have the perfect job, the perfect family, car, house, etc., we tend to lose sight of ourselves. Reexamine what you really need to make yourself happy and proceed accordingly.

Help Someone Else.

When you give, you grow. Making a positive difference in someone’s life automatically spawns gratitude and gives meaning in new ways.

Do the Hard Thing.

It is often difficult to break out of our comfort zones, so if you like to stay home, make plans to go out once a week. If you are too much of a social butterfly, make family or date night a priority. For more life strategies, visit www.psychologytoday.com.

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Self

Improving the New Year

By Practicing

MINDFULNESS Mindfulness is deﬁned as “the practice of maintaining a nonjudgmental state of heightened or complete awareness of one’s thoughts, emotions, or experiences on a moment-to-moment basis.” This practice, which dates back to the BC days throughout the world, is preached by many to be the secret to living happily and healthily. As we enter 2017, consider these insights to refocus and to live a more settled and contented life:

1 BE AWARE OF YOUR ACTIONS.

Speak to people with forethought and intent. Be cognizant of not only what you say but how you say it.

2 KEEP YOUR FOCUS PURPOSEFUL.

If something needs your attention, make a conscious effort to focus on that and that alone. But set a time limit to ponder it without letting it inundate your thoughts. Be solutionbased and move on.

3 BE PRESENT.

Living in the past only breeds negative energy. The past is over and you cannot change it—let it go!

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AVOID GETTING CAUGHT UP IN THE FUTURE.

It’s perfectly ﬁne to plan for your future, but when those thoughts become all-consuming and turn to worry, you are not being present in the moment.

5 ALLOW YOURSELF TO DO NOTHING.

Take time each day to just be still. Sit outside and listen to nature; try to clear your mind and just breathe.

LET GO OF JUDGMENTS & NEGATIVE EMOTIONS.

Once you are present in the moment, you may begin to notice things you hadn’t before. Take this opportunity to really hear the person talking to you and appreciate it for what it is … no judgments, no rebuttal.

7 IT'S NOT ALL ROSEBUDS & BUTTERFLIES.

It is important to embrace negative feelings as well. We are human after all, and we must recognize and appreciate the not-so-pleasant at times. But negativity begets negativity, so it’s important to search for the positives in all situations. For more ways to practice mindfulness, visit www.mindful.org.

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{ H E R E she I S }

AN LKN WOMAN WHO PERSONIFIES WHAT MAKES LAKE NORMAN WOMEN SO GREAT

How did it all begin? My husband’s family has been in the funeral business since 1845. When we were married in 1980, I knew that’s what we’d continue doing. In April 2011, we moved to Lake Norman and bought what is now Raymer-Kepner Funeral Home. My role in our business has changed over the years; and our son, Jonathan, has also joined us and is a ﬁfthgeneration funeral director.

i am an LKN oman because… I’ve been here for six years now, and I can truly say that I feel a sense of community here. It’s important to have a place to call home, and this is where home is for my family and me.

You must experience so much sadness in your workday… how do you focus? We always keep

in mind that we’re here to do our best for each family. Every situation is different, but the one thing that remains constant is we want to create a meaningful experience for each family. When I’m away from work, I think it’s important to relax and enjoy life.

What else are you passionate about? I cherish

family and friends time. We all have busy lives, but we make time for each other. I love to try new recipes for our “Sunday Night Dinners.” When I travel, it’s to someplace warm where I can bury my toes in the sand. I’m trying to garden, but I haven’t found my green thumb yet. But it sure is fun!

What advice would you give a young woman just starting out? Remember that

life is a gift, and treat each day that way. Surround yourself with people who love you, who want to see you do well and want to enjoy life with you. Be thankful for your many blessings, and don’t forget to stop and look around. There’s so much beauty around us. Claudia Kepner is the executive director of operations at RaymerKepner Funeral Home in Huntersville. For more information, visit www.raymerfh.com, or call 704.892.9669.

claudia KEPNER H O M E TO W N : P I T T S B U R G H , PA L K N TO W N : C O R N E L I U S HOUSEHOLD: HUSBAND JOHN & G O L D E N D O O D L E C H I M AY

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BY: MICHELLE LOVE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY: LISA CRATES PHOTOGRAPHY

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PA I D A DV E RT I S E M E N T

W Wome n’s Health ealth Symposium MENOPAUSE:

A TIME TO CELEBRATE WOMANHOOD MENOPAUSE IS NOT A DISEASE. It is a

On average, most women reach menopause around age 51. Typically, the diagnosis is made after there is no menstrual cycle for a full 12 months, but it can be diagnosed by checking hormone levels, specifically estrogen and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). While the primary effects of estrogen and progesterone are on the uterus to prepare it for possible pregnancy, other areas of the body are also influenced, including the brain, breasts, muscle, and body fat, which give rise to the feminine shape, bones, and the vagina. Other symptoms of perimenopause include changes in sleep patterns, irritability, and the infamous hot flashes. Hot flashes are essentially a sudden feeling of heat that spreads over the face and chest. They can last for several minutes or longer. Some women experience hot flashes only a few times per week while others have them several times per day. They can be considered disruptive, particularly when they occur at night, which is commonly described by many patients. This is probably the main reason for the sleep disturbances. Hot flashes can go on for four to five years on average, but a small percentage of women will have them for many years. Fortunately, there are more treatment options than ever before to manage menopausal symptoms. Like most conditions, we recommend positive lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, healthy diet, regular sleep, limiting alcohol, and stopping smoking. The

natural milestone in the maturation of women, but it can be considered a medical condition for some because of the bothersome symptoms associated with a decline in estrogen levels. Actually, it’s not menopause that most women dread; it’s the menopausal transition called perimenopause. This is a period when the ovaries are producing lower levels of estrogen and fertility starts to decline. It may last for many years, and a common sign of perimenopause is irregular menstrual cycles. Cycles may become heavier, lighter, or closer together, but often become less frequent. If heavier, more frequent cycles occur, women should see a health care provider as this may be a sign of another problem.

primary treatment goal is based on symptom relief. For women with significant hot flashes or vaginal dryness, estrogen hormone replacement is recommended. Estrogen is available by pill, patch, gel, lotion, injection, or a pellet placed under the skin or inserted into the vagina. There is no single estrogen supplement that fits everyone, so women will undergo special hormone testing and treatment specifically designed for their body called Bioidentical Hormone Therapy. Unfortunately, estrogen replacement is not an option for all women with cancer or other medical conditions, such as liver disease or history of blood clots. For these women, other treatments for hot flashes and menopausal symptoms include antidepressant medication, blood pressure medication, and herbal supplements. If you or a friend is experiencing the symptoms of perimenopause or menopause, have a lengthy discussion about treatment options with your health care provider. A symptom journal and a detailed medical and family history will aid your discussion of the pros and cons of estrogen replacement. If you choose to use estrogen or other therapies, be prepared for a trial period (often many months) to determine what works best for your symptoms. Even after finding the right treatment, it is important to keep regularly scheduled visits for monitoring because the benefits and risk of the treatment may change over time.

DR. G. BERNARD TAYLOR is an assistant clinical professor at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine, and assistant program director of the Carolinas Healthcare System Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery fellowship program in Charlotte. He is a fellow in the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and board-certiﬁed in obstetrics and gynecology and in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive pelvic surgery.

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Dr. Taylor practices at the Women’s Center for Pelvic Health; 704.304.1160 or 704.403.6350. | JANUARY 2017

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Maximize your health Embrace life. Retire with confidence. Join us for a transformative evening with guest speaker, Dr. John Woodward. Learn lifestyle changes you can adopt now that can improve your quality of life for many years to come. Money doesn’t matter if you don’t feel well enough to enjoy it. Complimentary dinner will be served. Thursday, January 26 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. Hosted by The Stoner Group Charles C. Stoner Senior Vice President– Wealth Management Charles M. Stoner Financial Advisor Guest speakers Dr. John Woodward, MD, MS Evervital MD

Location UBS Financial Services Inc. 16810 Kenton Drive, Suite 310, Huntersville, NC 28078 Eileen Stoner, CRPC® Senior Vice President– Wealth Management Chartered Retirement Planning CounselorSM Amy Lowe Financial Advisor John Capecci Senior Vice President Fidelity

RSVP Julia Krauss, Client Service Associate 855-541-0917 stoner.group@ubs.com

ubs.com/team/thestonergroup This presentation is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as investment advice or the basis for making any investment decisions. This seminar has been funded in whole or in part by Fidelity. Evervital MD and Fidelity are not affiliated with UBS. The views and opinions expressed may not be those of UBS Financial Services Inc. UBS Financial Services Inc. does not verify and does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information presented. For designation disclosures visit ubs.com/us/en/designation-disclosures. In providing wealth management services to clients, we offer both investment advisory and brokerage services, which are separate and distinct and differ in material ways. For information, including the different laws and contracts that govern, visit ubs.com/workingwithus. © UBS 2016. All rights reserved. UBS Financial Services Inc. is a subsidiary of UBS AG. Member FINRA/SIPC. 16.00_Ad_8.375x10.875_LN0907_StoC IS1605089 Exp. 11/30/17

first,

happy!

CHOOSE

By: Leslie Ogle | Photography By: Chelsea Bren

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As we enter 2017 and new beginnings are at the forefront of our thoughts and plans, Julie Mills, owner of Progressive Pilates in Cornelius, knows the power of positive thinking and has mastered the unique ability to choose happy.

HERE WAS A PERIOD IN MY LIFE WHEN I WAS MISERABLE, JULIE SAYS, AND I MADE EVERYONE AROUND ME MISERABLE, TOO. I FINALLY FIGURED OUT THAT THE ONLY

PERSON WHO CAN MAKE ME HAPPY IS ME. I CAN T EXPECT MY HUSBAND, FAMILY, OR FRIENDS TO DO IT FOR ME. AT THAT POINT, I MADE A CONSCIOUS DECISION TO BE HAPPY̶EVEN IN THE TOUGH TIMES. IT IS A CHOICE I MAKE EVERY SINGLE DAY.

Julie grew up as the middle child in a town just outside of Cincinnati, Ohio, and earned her business degree from Bowling Green State University. Married to husband Dan for more than 33 years, their children are of the four-legged variety. “We are in between dogs right now,” she laughs, “but are currently looking.” Just out of college, Julie worked for General Electric’s Aircraft Engine Group in Cincinnati, working in materials management and sourcing components for the military. Then, she and Dan moved to Minneapolis where she worked for a company that manufactured telecommunications equipment. “I purchased all of the semiconductors for this company,” Julie explains. “GE had taught me tenacity and how to speak up for myself. I was a young woman working in an environment that was mostly men … men who had been there for a long time and weren’t always open to hearing what a 22-year-old had to say. I learned to work hard to earn their respect and, in return, they started to take notice. The culture could be very tough so I had to really know my stuff and exude confidence.” After spending 16 years in the corporate world, Julie had become disinterested and a bit bored; she didn’t see her work making a real difference in the world or in her community. Having always been fascinated by the human body, as well as fitness in general, she decided to switch gears and become a personal trainer; after which she began to explore the world of Pilates. “I thought this would add to my repertoire with clients—what I really found was my true calling,” Julie says. “At that JANUARY 2017 |

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point, I decided that I would go through a comprehensive Pilates instructor training program, which consisted of 450 hours of coursework, practice teaching, and selfpractice. I’ve never looked back.” Another pursuit close to Julie’s heart is philanthropy and supporting her community. She has been active in the Rotary Club of Mecklenburg County for 11 years and, during that time, served as community service chairperson. In that role, she coordinated fundraising projects that have benefited local organizations such as the Ada Jenkins Center, Samaritan’s Purse, and Big Day at the Lake, which benefits Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Charlotte. She also co-chaired Northstone Country Club’s Rally for the Cure golf tournament for two years, raising $20,000 each year for the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Through her studio, the staff has provided toys for local children at Christmas, sponsored a healthy cooking demonstration raising $1,000 for Angels and Sparrows Soup Kitchen, and was a W.I.S.H. Society Honoree for the Charlotte chapter of Make-A-Wish Foundation in 2014. The studio also hosted a fashion show, raising more than $26,000 to grant the wishes of four local children with life-threatening medical conditions. Julie opened Progressive Pilates in 2004 and has added the Gyrotonics® and Gyrokinesis® exercise methods to the studio offerings as well. Gyrotonics is a unique system of exercise that incorporates movement principles from yoga, dance, gymnastics, swimming, and tai chi. Love for family, work, and community stand strong in Julie’s character, and she recognizes those who have contributed so much to her life. “I am so grateful to my husband and family for their support through the years,” Julie smiles. “I have worked nonstop to build Progressive Pilates into the studio it is today, and I have incredible instructors who work with me—dedicated to providing the highest quality instruction to our clients so that we can help them achieve their goals. And, speaking of our clients, we are nothing without them … they are the best!” !”

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women on the move JULIE MCCLAIN, RN, BSN, OCN, Oncology Nurse Navigator, has been recognized with the DAISY Foundation Award for the third quarter in 2016, by Lake Norman Regional Medical Center. Each quarter nurses are chosen by the hospital’s nursing leadership council and nursing administration.

PRIMARY RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE has partnered

with Feeding America. It created a goal to raise $150,000 in eight weeks—and raised more than $153,000 to help feed Americans in need. The Second Harvest Food Bank will directly beneﬁt from this drive. Owner BARBRA BRYAN and The Goddard School in Mooresville earned national recognition as a 21st Century Exemplar School from the Partnership for 21st Century Learning (P21) in Washington, DC. Only four schools nationwide received this prestigious award.

Huntersville resident LAURA MCGUIRE has launched Hipstik Legwear, LLC. She created a brand of low-rise tights with a silicon “stik strip” to keep them in place and avoid slipping or rolling down.

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CONNECT WITH US! Whether you are a woman on the move, looking for events, new businesses in the area, or are willing to contribute your opinion, follow us by visiting www.facebook.com/lakenormanwoman or e-mail amy@lakenormanwoman.com. | JANUARY 2017

Studio 73 Dance

Our 18 Seasonth

Ballet ~ Tap ~ Jazz ~ Lyrical ~ Pointe ~ Hip-Hop ~ Competition ~ Adult Classes

Empowering individuals to grace the stages of life through DANCE! www.studio73dance.com ( 7 0 4 )

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calendar

5 THINGS AN LKN

OMAN SHOULD DO IN JANUARY

FRIDAY, JAN. 6:

JAZZ AT THE BECHTLER: POST-HOLIDAY BLUES VI: MANY SHADES OF BLUE

6 & 8:15 p.m. (doors open at 5:30 & 7:45 p.m.) Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, 420 S. Tryon St., Charlotte Tickets: $14; $8 for museum members

Get out of your funk and ready for the New Year with the Ziad Jazz Quartet performing post-holiday blues. Song selections include Lee Morgan’s Boy What a Night, John Coltrane’s Bass Blues, Oliver Nelson’s Yearnin’, and more. General seating is ﬁrst come, ﬁrst served (then standing room only). Enjoy light bites and a cash-only bar.

Credit: Miles To Go Before We Sleep (c) Nellie Ashford, 2016

NOW THROUGH JAN. 16:

NELLIE ASHFORD: THROUGH MY EYES

Sundays: 1 to 5 p.m.; Tuesdays through Saturdays: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; closed Mondays The Harvey B. Gantt Center, 551 S. Tryon St., Charlotte

This exhibit, by Charlotte native Nellie Ashford, features 30 newly crafted mixed-media works by the renowned self-taught, self-proclaimed folk artist. She expresses shared experiences, community values, and culture to give a “visual, realistic imagery that reﬂects a time gone by, allowing the viewer to reﬂect and understand the Charlotte that once was—her Charlotte." Locally, also see her work at Foster’s Art Gallery in Huntersville.

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A LL MONTH LONG!

3 S UNDAY, JAN. 29:

REQUIEM FOR MOTHER EMANUEL: MOVING FROM TRAGEDY TO REDEMPTION, CHURCH DAY ONE 2 to 4 p.m. The Mint Museum, 2730 Randolph Rd., Charlotte

5 CAROLINA RAPTOR CENTER

6000 Sample Rd., Huntersville Winter Hours: Wednesdays through Saturdays: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sundays: Noon to 5 p.m.; closed Mondays and Tuesdays

Credit: Leo Twiggs, Requiem for Mother Emanuel #7, 2016 , batik on cotton. The Johnson Collection. Photo by SailWind.

This is the ﬁrst part of a response to South Carolina artist Dr. Leo Twiggs’ nine works of art in the exhibition Requiem for Mother Emanuel, which honors those lost to tragedy at Mother Emanuel AME Church in Charleston. At these Sunday programs, local churches will remember this time of mourning and redemption with vocalists, musicians, choir selections, bell ringing, and liturgical dance. Guests will have an opportunity to view the exhibit and respond via interactive message boards.

While it’s been in our backyard you may have never visited before. Meet and encounter raptors or take in an exhibit—or two. Walk the Raptor Trail, a three-quarters mile walk among 30 raptors. Note: The eagle aviary is closed through late winter or early spring for nesting season. Visit www. carolinaraptorcenter. org for ticket prices.

Church Day Two will be held in February.

ALL MONTH LONG!

SEALIFE CHARLOTTE-CONCORD AQUARIUM

8111 Concord Mills Blvd., Concord Mondays through Thursdays: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Fridays & Saturdays: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Sundays: Noon to 6 p.m.

Families and individuals of all ages, enjoy an indoor outing with behind-the-scenes tour, 10 interactive zones, informational talks and feeding times, individual, group, and school tours—and birthday parties, too! Make note of Toddler Tuesdays. Visit www2.visitsealife.com/charlotte-concord for ticket prices. Photo courtesy of Amy Hallman

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““ Scene

WITH

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BE SCENE

LAKE NORMAN WOMAN is getting out and about each month, looking for great events and the fabulous and exciting Lake Norman people who are making them happen! So next time you’re at a chamber event, a new business in the area, or just out having fun, look for Lake Norman Woman and our camera. Who knows, you just might

find yourself in next month’s “SCENE

WITH LAKE NORMAN WOMAN!”

LKNW’s Amy with Isabella Rufﬂes

LKNW's Dana & Leslie at the annual staff Christmas party

LKNW’s Michele & Stephanie

LKNW’sAmy, Michelle, Leslie, Dana, Michele, Stephanie, & Chelsea

View more Scene photos & more at our Facebook page: Facebook.com/ LakeNormanWoman

LKNW’s Leslie & Amy LKNW’s Michele & Chelsea

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julieJETZER LKNW RECOGNIZES A WOMAN DOING EXCEPTIONAL WORK IN THE LAKE NORMAN COMMUNITY, A LEADER WHO IS PAVING THE WAY TO CHANGING OUR ATTITUDES AND INSPIRING CONFIDENCE IN THE FUTURE.

on LIVING HER PASSION: I have two passions: educating clients about exercises that will close their diastasis recti (the separation of the abdominal muscles that causes an extended belly and other health issues) and helping clients “reset” their bodies and relieve chronic pain through neuromuscular movement exercises, which help the brain communicate with different muscles throughout the body. on RESULTS: The most amazing thing about what I do is seeing the joy on my clients’ faces when they have a follow-up. They feel stronger, their belly is flatter, and sometimes other symptoms have diminished, too. They’re happier, more confident, and willing to tackle the world! on SPREADING THE WORD: The biggest challenge is spreading the word about my programs, that there are programs available to help both a diastasis recti and chronic pain from overactive muscles. I can individualize a program that best fits a client’s needs—everyone has a different story! Julie Jetzer Corrective Core & Musculoskeletal Health, LLC HUNTERSVILLE & CONOVER, NC

on JUMPSTARTING HER DAY: Each weekday, I start the day with breakfast with my two teenagers and my husband. I love being able to have a schedule that allows me to be very active in our boys’ lives—they will be in college before we know it, and I cherish this time with them. on

APPRECIATING THE SMALL STUFF: I love spending time with friends and

family. But that’s a “big” something that most people receive joy from, right? I also really enjoy little things, like getting green lights one right after the other and seeing the goodness in people show itself in unexpected ways, like watching a stranger help another stranger in need. Julie Jetzer is the owner of Corrective Core & Musculoskeletal Health, LLC (locations in Huntersville and Conover), and a corrective exercise specialist with advanced training in diastasis recti and neuromuscular movements.Visit her website at www.correctivecore.net or contact her at 980.434.6770.

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By: Dana Nieters | Photography By: Lisa Crates Photography

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PUT FIRST THINGS FIRST WHEN

Exercise Exercise

Designing

Spaces By: Starr Miller

Ah, you thought I was going to give you tips on exercise equipment. Or better yet, how to meet your 2017 weight goals! Nope, that’s just not the way I roll. I typically roll with butter! Still, I will share items to consider when planning your exercise space.

The Equipment Equipment:

Make a list of every piece of equipment that you want to use in the space.

Organize this list by adjacencies.

Your AudioVisual Needs:

Make a list of music, speakers, TVs, mobile phone-charging station, or other media items you need to place in your plan.

space with special lighting to bring importance to each new stage of your workout regime? Would you like to have a fan in the room circulating the air? Yes, I want to feel like Beyoncé!

Do you need to be near a mirror when you are working with each piece of equipment?

What kind of electrical support do you need for those items?

Make sure all your lighting is warm light (measured at 2700-3000 Kelvin). This will make everything look better.

Do you need to have floor space to use this equipment?

Lighting:

Do you like it light and bright when you are working out? Or do you only want to

Walls:

Do you need other equipment nearby when using this equipment? Barbells with bench, for example.

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Photo courtesy of Ron Santini

Do you need to be near an outlet?

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see the glare of the monitor where you binge-watch The Walking Dead? By the way, this show only came to mind because that is how I feel about exercise. Do you want dimmers on your lighting? Do you want to highlight each area of your exercise

Would a mirror help you insure that you are lined up correctly? Would a ballet barre help in your stretching? Do you need motivation with words, phrases, art work, or a travel map? Pick a focus. Do not clutter

every wall with motivational posters. You need to relax and focus. Clutter just makes us anxious.

Floor:

Make sure you have enough floor space to move around easily, invite over a yoga buddy, or work with a professional trainer. Carpet is not a good solution in an exercise space. You want a ﬂoor you can clean.

Consider using interlocking EVA foam tiles in more than one color, hardwood, or luxury vinyl tile.

Now go out there and plan your room! By the time you have it all together, it could be spring and you may want to go for a walk instead.

Storage:

Make a place for items such

as your cleaning items, towels, laundry, jump ropes, exercise roller. Note: those exercise balls have a mind of their own. If you don’t care, fine. If you do, there are stands made just for those who like a tidy space.

Starr Miller is the president and principal designer at StarrMiller Interior Design, Inc. Contact her at 704.896.3321 or visit www.starrmiller.com.

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Skin Care Product Lines SkinMedica® • Elta MD®• Revision Skincare® • Latisse®

704.235.1827 128 Medical Park Road, Suite 201 Mooresville, NC 28117 MooresvilleDermCenter.com

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health

Tracking

FITNESS TRACKERS count your steps in the day or track calories, hours of sleep, heart rate, skin temperature, or perspiration levels, there’s a tracker for that! Virtually all of them use an accelerometer, which measures steps and side-to-side motions, as well as up-and-down and front-toback movements. First things first—consider these factors before you buy: W H E T H E R YO U WA N T TO S I M P LY

Data Collection If you are looking to observe and record your lifestyle habits, some trackers let you sync with external heart monitors, smart bathroom scales, and other devices that give very precise readings. These trackers can be paired with companion software or mobile apps and can even share data with your physician.

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Fashion v. Function Many trackers are worn on the wrist but some can be worn as a pendant or clipped to your clothing. They do come in a variety of shapes, colors, and materials, so make sure you feel comfortable wearing it.

Compatibility Be sure it will sync with your cellphone or computer. Some trackers only work with Apple’s iOS; others only work with Android. And it is important to note that most do not work with Windows.

Battery Life Expectations Battery life can last from one day to several months. A tracker with a color touchscreen and a host of sensors will need to be charged more often than those with simple LED lights. Also, not all batteries are rechargeable; some run on coin cell batteries, such as the ones used in calculators.

Waterproof Needs Many are simply “splash proof” so it’s important to consider how waterproof your tracker is—or needs to be. Some can withstand a shower or a swim, others not so much, so do your homework before you jump in the lake!

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Start with Goals, End with Solutions

Becky L. Johnson, private wealth advisor and chief executive ofﬁcer with Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., in Cornelius, understands the importance of ﬁnancial planning—especially for the progressive, busy women of today.

E C K Y K N E W E A R LY O N

that she wanted to pursue a career in banking and finance. In fact, she started working as a teller just out of high school. “The salary was so small at that time,” she recalls, “that I kept a job at Harris Teeter to save money. At the bank branches, I was introduced to the investment reps from affiliated companies and decided that’s what I wanted to do.” Because she married right out of high school, Becky began college at 25—and she did so while pregnant and working full time. She earned her degree in business, bank, and finance, and also studied for and passed the Series 7 stock broker’s license while in school. Additionally, she earned the designation as a certified financial planner and chartered life underwriter. “While it would’ve been easier to go to college straight out of high school,” Becky admits, “I found that attending classes at night gave me instructors who were bankers by trade. I learned so much from those experienced teachers. I also finished my degree while pregnant with my daughter, Ashley, who’s now 27. She currently works as a planning assistant for the firm; and my son, Wesley (15), is a sophomore at Lake Norman Christian in Davidson. I’m exceedingly proud of them both.” In the beginning, Becky began searching for a company with which to begin her financial career; she found the predecessor to Ameriprise and knew straight away that this was how she wanted to work with clients. “There were few companies 27 years ago,” Becky says, “that offered financial planning on a large scale and with a philosophy I could embrace. Completing a plan that starts with your goals and ends with solutions made so much sense to me. I’ve kept that focus ever since.” Becky’s passion is helping people through transitions, particularly women who have lost their spouse. While she understands this is a very difficult time that can be overwhelming, she gains great satisfaction in guiding

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Becky L. Johnson AMERIPRISE FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. CORNELIUS, NC

them financially and being a support for them while they rebuild their lives. Also inspiring her along the way, she says, were her parents and grandmother who grounded her in a life of faith, prayer, and hard work with some good manners sprinkled in. “My grandmother became a widow at 65 and lived 30 more years as a single woman,” Becky marvels. “She started a successful Avon business with years of company recognition. She reminds me of a Proverbs 31 woman:

strong, dignified, multitalented, caring, and an individual in her own right. The Proverbs 31 woman had business skills, the sensitivity and compassion to care for and fulfill the needs of lessfortunate people, and the cheerful, energetic attitude to tackle challenges. Her husband and children loved and respected her kind, generous, and caring nature. And with all her responsibilities, first and foremost, she looked to God,” Becky says. “I, too, try to live with this in mind.”

By: Leslie Ogle | Photography By: Chelsea Bren

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…

MIND body spirit BETTER ME

BETTER YOU

BETTER WORLD

Narrowing Your Focus in 2017 By: Rachele Caputo

W I T H T H E N E W Y E A R upon us,

we often find ourselves reflecting on how quickly the previous year has gone by and whether we succeeded at the lofty goals we had set for ourselves or how we fell considerably short. We begin again with a renewed sense of purpose and determination. While we willfully set out to put our resolutions in right order in January, we tend to lose our way in the bustle of everyday life as the weeks unfold. Let me share a secret with you: a set of New Year's resolutions is not the answer to really grow as a person. Resolutions set us up for disappointment and failure because we often lose our focus. A more meaningful practice that has really made an impact on me and my family has been the choosing of one word every year. Our pastor introduced the concept a few years ago to our church, and I knew it was the beginning of the end of my meaningless New Year’s resolutions. The task is simple; rather than making a grandiose set of resolutions that will likely be defunct by March, choose one word that will be the focus of your year. I have

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found it even more meaningful to attach a Bible verse to memorize and support the word that I feel God is leading me to grow through. When I reflect back on my 2016 word, I am amazed and humbled by how much I grew throughout the personal, professional, and faith areas of my life related to that word. Stephen Covey echoes the sentiment of narrowing our focus for success in The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People. He indicates that one habit of effective people is that they “put First Things First” as a way of life. When considering your one word for the year, think about what is most important to you. What is your highest priority, and how much growth do you desire in that area? Let me offer you fair warning: If your word comes easily, it’s probably not the one you need to focus on. Push for it, meditate on it, and know that when you sense a word that is giving you fits of angst, that is more than likely the one. Enjoy the word-choosing process, and then go for it!

Here are some quick tips for choosing your word. 1. ASK others. Those you trust and who know you well will be able to give you keen insight into where they know you struggle most, and where you will beneﬁt from growth. 2. ASK yourself. Do some serious soul searching and selfassessment to give yourself the focus you need to buy into the change process. 3. ASK your creator. My favorite verse that helps get me into the right frame of mind is: “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need” (Matthew 6:33). When we ask our Creator what area He wants to grow in us, it will be an amazing year of growth and focus. Rachele Caputo is a licensed professional counselor associate and owner of YOUtopia Counseling Services in Cornelius. For more information, visit www.youtopiacounseling.com, or call 980.231.0955.

THE MIND, BODY, AND SPIRIT ARE INTIMATELY CONNECTED. Because unhealthy thoughts and emotions can create a vicious cycle that leads to unhealthy physical patterns, we can choose a victorious path that includes a positive, healing, uplifting spiral. By mixing the ingredients of attitude and action, we can change the ﬂavor of our own lives. Learn to nurture your body and soul to lead a more balanced life.

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