grace, gratitude, & pie: a family's secret to coping
featuring
pg. 50
Dr. Naomi Simon & the Eterna Aesthetics team
Learning The To
thanksgiving
love
pause
for your turkey day toasts pg. 26
gratitudeattitude pg. 16
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womenpower “ S O M E D AY S A R E D I A M O N D S , S O M E D AY S A R E S TO N E S .”
John Denver, though he could have used some of that intuitiveness when it came to experimental aircraft, sure nailed it when he crooned those words about the ups and downs of life.
DANA JORDAN
I suppose it goes without saying, but I definitely prefer the diamond-y days over the rocky ones. It’s quite easy to practice gratitude when the day is going right…like when I stumble upon a half bag of Reese’s Cups that I hid from myself in a seldom-opened drawer. On the rocky days, I mostly pout. Wellmeaning friends often try to help by reminding me that I have so much to be grateful for. I usually respond by mumbling curse words under my breath. It’s not because they’re wrong, it’s that their reminder only makes me feel worse…like a self-indulgent brat who has some kind of gratefulness disorder. I wish I could be more like Charlie Brown on my stone days. Sure, he is a bit pensive for a kid, but with good reason. After all, nearly all of his days are stones. He’s continually humiliated by a bully who not only calls him a horrible name liking his head to an unflattering shape but who also takes great pleasure in pulling a football away just as he’s about to kick it. Adding insult to injury, his adult neighbors bully him as well by giving other children candy on Halloween, but only giving him rocks. In addition, Charlie pines for the Little Red-Haired Girl and a kite that will fly, both of which remain just out of reach. It’s no wonder that at the tender age of eight he needs a psychiatrist. If I were Charlie Brown, I would probably need legal counsel instead of psychotherapy because those neighbors would have flaming bags of poo decorating their front stoops, and Lucy would receive the swift kick meant for the football. But retaliation isn’t Charlie Brown’s style. Even though he faces day after day of disappointment, he remains hopeful that tomorrow he will triumph. Charlie Brown chooses to focus on the diamond days sure to come—to be thankful, even when his circumstances are less than ideal. We all have our stone days in which, to quote Mr. Denver once again, “the hard times won’t leave us alone.” But there is a lesson to be learned from our loveably loser friend who never kicks the football or gets the girl or pulls a Snickers bar out of his trick or treat bag: Gratitude and the imperfections of life don’t have to be mutually exclusive. What might the days that I get nothing but rocks look like if instead of pouting I choose to be thankful for the simplest of gifts? Rather than mumbling curses, what if I opt to see the good in others? If I can harness some Charlie Brown-ness, those days just might look less rocky and a lot more blingy. And while I may not be inclined to philosophical contemplations like Charlie Brown, I’m no blockhead either: blingy is better. w
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DANA JORDAN PUBLISHER NOVEMBER 2020
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JODIE GOLAB
NOVEMBER CONTRIBUTORS:
Michelle Love; Starr Miller; Nahi Nadra; Hilary Porta; Tammy Williams CONTACT US:
704.895.6168
PO BOX 1000 | CORNELI US, NC | 28031
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Lake Norman Woman reserves the right to deny any advertisement or listing that does not meet Lake Norman Woman standards. Submissions are welcome but unsolicited materials are not guaranteed to be returned. Lake Norman Woman assumes no responsibility for information, products, services, or statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. An advertised special printed in this publication is subject to change without notice. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited.
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CELEBRATING THE
36
AMY REGISTER & ERIKA BOGAN FIT INN
2020
FEATURES
12
WOMAN TO WATCH:
23
HERE SHE IS:
42 46
NOVEMBER 2020
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WOMEN
contents
36
8
OF
november 28
PHOTO: MOJO STUDIOS
SUCCESS
Lillian Johnson
Dr. Claire Fedore
COVER STORY:
A Portrait Of Success … A Decade Of Gratitude SOUL SISTERS:
ON THE COVER: ETERNA AESTHETICS TEAM INCLUDING (L TO R) MICHELLE CAAMANO, LAETITIA CLOETE, DR. NAOMI SIMON, SUSAN STEVENS, & KRISTIN PROCHASKA P H OTO G R A P H Y B Y: CHELSEA BREN
Erika Bogan & Amy Register
THAT'S WHAT HE SAID:
V3 Productions
SUCCESS STORY:
Find What You Love, & You'll Love What You Do
40
pg
8 Gift Ideas For Men!
50
46
pg
Gratitude Over Grief!
23
DR. CLAIRE FEDORE LINEBERGER ORTHODONTICS
JEAN BOCK CAIN CENTER FOR THE ARTS
PHOTO: MOJO STUDIOS FAMILY
SELF
38
16
Be Grateful For The "Pause" And Come Back To Yourself
34
Grateful For Our Veterans
40
8 THINGS:
50
MIND, BODY, SPIRIT:
TEENS ALOUD:
Embracing My Middle Eastern Ethnicity In A World Of Misconceptions
FOOD
26
Four Fun Cocktail Recipes For The Holidays
HOME
18
R U Due For An EMF Check?
20
TIPS, TRICKS, & HACKS:
24
INSIDE DESIGN:
For Men
12
8 Gift Ideas
LILLIAN JOHNSON
JOHNSON CARRIAGE HOUSE
Bake A Pie And Go …
in every issue
Thanksgiving Edition!
10
LIVE, LEARN, GROW
Escape Room
48
32
WOMEN ON THE MOVE
PHOTO: TONI LOVEJOY
WORDS MATTER
Summer
Robinson Tabor 704-502-2352 LakeNormanSummer@aol.com
www.SummerTabor.com
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YEARS EXPERIENCE
Blueberry Hill Drive, Clyde $68,900
1440 Cranwell Drive, Mt Ulla $179,900
Lovely wooded lot for sale in the mountains on 1.27 acres. Mountain views on three sides of the property. The gentle slope will make for a wonderful yard and nice home build. Could be a crawl space or basement foundation. This lot is not located within an HOA community, so there are no restrictions on what to build. There is 142 feet of road frontage. This lot is located within 2 miles of I-40 highway.
Ready for a more relaxed lifestyle? This land for sale is two lots combined for a total of 9.06 acres. The land is treed, but it has also been cleared off very well, with a peaceful creek on the property. You can bring your own builder & there is no specific time frame to build. These 2 combined lots are located in an established community. 4 bedrooms septic permit on file. Minimum sq footage to build is 2,200. Road frontage has 500 feet. Terrain is flat & somewhat rolling which is perfect for building.
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LIVE, LEARN, Life takes practice! And though they don’t always come wrapped in a shiny red bow, the lessons we learn along the way are invaluable gifts that are worth sharing. Here are a few noteworthy examples featured in this issue: When a car accident left ERIKA BOGAN
“I don’t have to chase extraordinary moments to find happiness – it’s right in front of me if I’m paying attention and practicing gratitude.” See how this quote plays an important role in the life of DR. CLAIRE FEDORE of Lineberger Orthodontics on page 23.
paralyzed at just 21 years old, she knew she would have to pull on some hidden strengths—and some of those she found in Soul Sister AMY REGISTER. Flip
on over to page 36 to see what real yoga, and a goat have in common!
NOVEMBER 2020
LILLIAN JOHNSON
(owner and operator of Johnson Carriage House & Meadows in Mooresville) keeps her farm, her events venue, and her family all running at blue-ribbon status.
Be inspired on page 46 when you read JEAN BOCK’S story, board member of Cain Center for the Arts in Cornelius. When husband Tom was diagnosed with stage 4 head and neck cancer, lives changes and priorities shifted. See how their faith, love, and gratitude helped them emerge stronger than ever.
friendship, gratitude,
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Skip on over to page 12 to see how
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Giving our LKNMen a voice on page 44 see how a local club provides support to the men in our community, at no cost to them. Through a mentoring/ discipleship program and regularly scheduled events, V3 PRODUCTIONS
offers one-onone study, group bible study, sporting events and activities, and special seminars that deal specifically with men’s health, relational, and work issues.
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feature
womantowatch
LILLIAN
johnson
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 MY JOURNEY TO NOW: I grew up just outside of Louisville, Kentucky. After high school I joined the Army Reserves and used my GI bill to further my education. It was early in my military career that I earned my Veteran status during operation Desert Storm. My amazingly supportive husband and I have three children: Aaron, 20, a sophomore at Belmont University in Nashville majoring in audio engineering; Sophie, 16, a junior at LKN High School; and Scarlett, 14, a freshman at LKN High School. on HARD WORK AND HEART-WARMING GRATITUDE: I have always loved hosting events and friends over the years. It was my husband’s 40th birthday party (now 13 years ago) that I realized I could turn my love for something into a career and take advantage of the location of our family horse farm. I’m very fortunate to work from home and have the luxury of setting my own schedule. It did take several years of being in business before I would allow for an event to happen on the property without my presence … which meant working a lot of weekends! Today, we are a nationally recognized, award-winning venue with plans to expand our services to offer a large indoor reception area that can seat 300 people. I have great vendors that I’ve worked with for many years now and trust them to fully execute an event without a hiccup.
on FAMILY: We are a very close family and spending our free time together is really what I enjoy more than anything. Since we also live on the property, we have made additions over the years and adjusted the way we operate in order to find the perfect fit that works best for our business and for our family. We love to travel too but with busy schedules and our beautiful farm to brighten our days, we don’t mind just cozying up together at home.
JOHNSON CARRIAGE HOUSE & MEADOWS MOORESVILLE
on OBSTACLES & ALTERNATIVES: One of my favorite quotes is, “If you give someone a crutch, they’ll use it.” I’ve always tried to instill that in my children, especially Sophie who is special needs. I must prepare my daughter for the day when my husband and I aren’t there for her anymore. We’ve always tried to treat her equally. We encourage them all to persevere during difficult times … to know that there is going to be someone out there who will believe in you and give you the opportunity you need … to never give up on your dreams and to remain confident in yourself. w
Lillian Johnson is the owner and operator of Johnson Carriage House & Meadows located at 1360 Brawley School Road in Mooresville. You can reach Lillian and her team at 704.360.2962 or visit today at www.johnsoncarriagehouseandmeadows.com. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram; more info at theknot.com.
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WRITER LESLIE OGLE
PHOTOGRAPHER TONI LOVEJOY
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self
be grateful for the “pause” and come back to yourself WHAT IF THIS FORCED DOWN TIME IS A GIFT? What if it’s an
opportunity to get the rest and clarity we so desperately long for and need? What can we learn from disruptions like this? How can we transform a shocking event into an opportunity for self-examination and gratitude? It’s an odd time, to be sure. We find ourselves forced into unexpected isolation. But there is a difference between being lonely and being alone. I wonder what healing we would find if we shifted our perspective and saw this as a gift of solitude and retreat—a unique opportunity for withdrawal from the daily hustle that demands our attention and strains our focus. The way I see it, this is a sort of “spiritual time-out” … an opportunity to distance ourselves from the things that we would normally allow to control us in order to become grounded. Yes, we are in challenging times, but you will be able to grow when you surrender to the reality of what is. You can find energy in gratitude. There is light at the end of the tunnel. How we show up now is predictive of our future in many arenas. w H E R E A R E A F E W T H I N G S T H AT W I L L F O ST E R G R AT I T U D E :
honor your feelings
Honor your feelings in this moment. What name would you give them? Are you restless? Anxious? Afraid? Know that your feelings are valid. They’re integral to your processing and healing. It’s ok to feel however you’re feeling. Don’t run from your emotions; sit with them and listen to them. Peel them back and see what lies underneath them.
develop a contemplative practice Every now and then, we need to give ourselves space to think so that we can move forward with more energy. This inflicted pause is an opportunity to examine where your heart is and what is holding it captive in order to “flip the script” and form a strategy to peacefully and proactively recalibrate and move forward with more intentionality.
Activities like prayer, meditation, study, journaling, breath-work, and moving your body are good ways to examine and nourish your inner being … and gratitude will follow!
rest and reset
Rest has been proven time and time again to dramatically increase our well-being … and yet, we don’t do it. Due to technology advances and constant access to information, the cognitive load on each of us is heavier than ever before. Our minds simply don’t have the capacity to process the ever-increasing hurry of everyday life. When we rest, we come back to ourselves. We reduce the clutter to the essential. Take this time to rest in solitude and silence, which will increase your inner tranquility and enable you to reset. Rest is the most reliable path to equanimity and peace, and is essential for mental, physical, and spiritual health.
Hilary Porta is the founder of R3 International, Inc. and is the Principal/CEO of H Porta Coaching, a leading-edge transformational company based out of Mooresville, with a satellite office in the UK. Known as The Life Architect, Chief Shame Slayer, human behavior hacker, and business strategist, Hilary is an international speaker (shared the stage with Dr. Deepak Chopra) and a frequent contributor to numerous national publications. Her work embraces everyone from professional athletes, to the military, to celebrities, to teens struggling with anxiety.
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WRITER HILARY PORTA
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home
R U Due
for an
EMF ( ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELD)
check?
TODAY, MORE AND MORE PEOPLE are
experiencing adverse health effects as a result of ongoing exposure to Electric and Magnetic Fields (EMF). Today it is estimated that 3-8 percent of populations in developed countries experience serious electrohypersensitivity symptoms and 35 to 50 percent experience less severe symptoms. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) statement in December 2005: “Electrical Hypersensitivity (EHS) is a growing worldwide health concern.” EHS can be difficult to understand and even more difficult to diagnose. Many doctors and other health professionals in North America are not yet aware of the recent scientific evidence surrounding man-made EMFs and their detrimental effects on human health. Studies have shown that electrical pollution affects children more than adults and women are at least twice as susceptible as men. The huge increase in electromagnetic energy in today’s modern electroniccharged environment coincides with an alarming increase in new-age ailments such as insomnia, chronic fatigue syndrome, chronic pain, tinnitus, anxiety, depression, nervous system disorders, ALS, Parkinson’s disease, hormone dysfunction, Alzheimer’s disease, as well as a huge spike in childhood cancers. w
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EMF Health Facts: - In 2015, 190 scientists from 38 nations submitted the International EMF Scientist Appeal to the United Nations, UN member states, and the World Health Organization requesting they adopt more protective exposure guidelines for electromagnetic fields and wireless technology in the face of increasing evidence of risk from this rapidly increasing environmental pollutant. - In May 2011, the WHO International Agency for Research on Cancer issued its decision that non-ionizing radiofrequency radiation from wireless devices be classified as a 2B (possible) carcinogen. This mirrors the 2001 IARC finding that extremely low frequency (ELF-EMF) be classified as a 2B (possible) carcinogen pertaining to power frequency radiation (AC power lines and appliances). There is a solution! An EMF assessment by a Certified EMF professional will identify the remedial steps necessary to reduce the EMF pollution that is emitted from CFL’s (compact fluorescent bulbs), light dimmer switches, solar inverters, electronics, appliances, wiring, cordless phones, computers, tablets, PDA’s, smart meters, cell towers, Wi-Fi router, overhead power lines, power transformers, baby monitors, wireless internet modems, gaming systems, and the list goes on.
L K N e x p e rt
Tammy Williams and her husband Gary are the owners of Carolinas Energy Associates, LLC. Tammy is an EMF Professional and Gary is an EMF Expert Certified Consultant and Electrical Engineer. You can reach Tammy at 704.408.2420, via email at tammy@carolinasenergy.com, or visit them today at www.carolinasenergy.com. WRITER TAMMY WILLIAMS
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home @
We know how busy life can get—kids, work, family, friends … sometimes just getting dinner on the table is a Herculean feat! So in an effort to save our readers some time, effort, and money here are a few tips, tricks, and hacks that might come in handy in your busy world!
THE REST IS JUST GRAVY.
Use a thermos to keep gravy warm. Decant to a gravy boat just before serving.
COOL!
Coolers will come in handy for freeing up refrigerator space. Use ice packs instead of ice and store condiments, pickles, salad dressings, etc. You can also line a cooler with aluminum foil, add some folded towels, and use it as a warming drawer for casseroles and such.
TIPS,
tricks,
FESTIVE AND DELICIOUS!
& HACKS THANKSGIVING
EDITION!
Throw a bag of cranberries in the freezer (grapes also work) for a festive alternative to ice. They won’t melt and water down the drinks like ice cubes do; plus you won’t have to worry about having enough ice on hand.
CHOP TIME OFF YOUR CHOPPING TIME.
OVERCOOKED THE BIRD? If your turkey is a bit on the dry side, drizzle with warm chicken broth once you’ve sliced and plated the bird; it will help moisten the meat and add flavor. This is also a good trick for perking up leftovers.
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Shave hours off your prep time by picking up ingredients from a local grocer’s salad bar—think chopped onions, trimmed beans, diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, hardboiled eggs, and crumbled bacon.
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NOW LIVE ON
www.LakeNormanWoman.com
introducing
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What are you looking for? We're doing the legwork for you with a comprehensive directory to find the LKN professionals you need. With the help of videos, testimonials, & other pertinent info, you can finally book that appointment with confidence.
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I try to maintain an attitude of gratitude I greatly admire author/
professor Brené Brown and think it is vitally important to maintain focus on the immense amount of good in my life, so the quote I am currently trying to be mindful of is: “I don’t have to chase extraordinary moments to find happiness – it’s right in front of me if I’m paying attention and practicing gratitude.”
Orthodontics was my calling I was
fortunate enough to grow up with a father who is a dentist and was exposed to the dental field from an early age. I witnessed first-hand the professional joy and satisfaction from being able to connect with patients and form lasting relationships. I always thought I would join him in his practice but the moment I was exposed to orthodontics in school, I knew it was the right fit for me.
Juggling = balancing A busy
work and family life dictate that you keep things in proper perspective. I prioritize self-care and habits that promote a positive mindset so I can show up as the best version of myself every day. I love running and practicing yoga. Wes (we just got married in October!) and I typically ride our bikes around Birkdale in the evenings. I take great pleasure in the simple things—sitting outside reading with a good cup of coffee or finding the perfect greeting card for a friend.
Lead with empathy I am very
close with an individual who has a learning disability, and it has taught me so much through the years. Often their actions were perceived negatively but being so close, I was cognizant of what was truly in their heart, and I am forever indebted for the awareness that was instilled in me—being a daily reminder that you never know what someone else is going through and how important it is to lead with empathy and compassion in every interaction.
heresheis
feature
Follow your heart Leaving my
home in Michigan was a difficult decision for me. I stayed for my education and to remain connected to my family. I also had considered working with my father after dental school, so moving away felt like I was letting down the individuals who are most important to me. However, I learned that it takes courage to make changes, and it is important to follow your heart and take time to listen internally to what feels right for you. w
dr.
claire fedore LINEBERGER ORTHODONTICS
Dr. Claire Fedore is an orthodontist at Lineberger Orthodontics with locations in Huntersville, Mooresville, and Elizabeth. You can reach the Lineberger team at 704.892.3300 or visit them today at www.LinebergerOrthodontics.com. WRITER LESLIE OGLE
PHOTOGRAPHER CHELSEA BREN
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inside home
@ design with Starr Miller
While contemplating these spaces I have been working through some other things to do around the house to shake off the doldrums:
PAINT! I cannot believe
escape ROOM OFTEN WHEN WE WANT TO GET AWAY from the
world we hunker in at home and hide out for a few days. Boy have times changed! Now we are looking for our getaway within our getaway. Whether a place to escape to do work or homework, read a book, play an instrument or just happily watch a Real Housewives of NY without someone heckling your choice; we all need a place to call our own. In recent years, the open floorplan has been all the rage. But more and more I am getting calls to discuss opportunities to enclose the dining room, build out the bonus room or close off the TV room. When everything, or in this case, everyone has their place you just feel better. No one wants to “camp out” at the dining room table. It feels like you are not settled, and anyone can run in during your zoom call. Since this is November and one of the few times you are likely to use your dining room I am not going to suggest you blow it up right now. Setting up for an intimate, beautiful family Thanksgiving dinner may be just what the doctor ordered. I am, however, going to suggest some ways to lighten the load and use your spaces differently.
THE DINING ROOM –
Consider adding French doors so when you do want to work on the Dining Room table, you can close off any distracting nearby chatter.
THE FORMAL LIVING ROOM – Consider adding
French Doors or if you are up for a renovation, pocket doors, to allow this room to become a quiet reading, music or TV room.
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BONUS ROOM – Consider adding room dividers to give yourself space for an office or a gym area. THE GUEST ROOM –
Never has there been a better time to add a Murphy Bed. Why should all this space be kept intact for the two times a year you have guests. The guest room could make a great office, classroom, yoga room, craft room or ancillary den. Take your home back!
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I am going to say this, but after an entire lifetime painting white walls a color, I am working on a plan to add some white walls back into my home. Why? I think it will just help me take a breath. I deal with color all day and I need some white space. You may need something else – blue, yellow, green. I do not suggest grey paint as it is now aging interiors (“oh, how so 2010”) and frankly who wants a grey day.
Starr Miller Founder and Principal, StarrMiller Interior Design Allied ASID, IDS, CAPS
NEW DRAPERIES –
There is nothing like a beautiful panel of fabric to add some magic to a room. Never close up the room with too much fabric or too much stuff covering the windows, however, why not soften the space and frame the view?
LIGHTING – Brighten up your interior lighting. Keep the Kelvin between 2400 and 3000, but increase the Lumens (brightness). Those in Seattle know that brightening the light brightens the day.
PLAN – This is the time to plan your renovations for future months. If you don’t want to do your renovations when everyone is at home, now is the best time to begin planning for future months. Your prep now will pay off with a quicker renovation when you are ready. My best suggestion is to love your home. Don’t wait until the next home, or someday. The time is now. Embrace this time at home as your opportunity to nest, but simultaneously plan your escape room. Sanity is important. w
Our resident home-design expert, Starr Miller, has garnered local and national acclaim with more than 30 industry honors. An alumnus of the prestigious Parsons School of Design in New York, Starr has built a strong following as the principal of her sought-after design firm, located in Cornelius, NC. She feels the composition of a space must originate with the client’s unique perspective. Along with that perspective she brings together her team’s collaboration, design skills and refined processes in a way which results in truly captivating homes for her clients. StarrMiller Interior Design specializes in full-service interior design projects.
704-896-3321 www.StarrMiller.com
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FOOD
FOUR FUN
cocktail recipes for the holidays
Caramel Snickerdoodle Martini Place ¼ cup warmed caramel on a plate and 2 tbsp. cinnamon sugar on another. Dip rims of martini glasses in caramel, then in cinnamon sugar. In a cocktail shaker, add 1 cup heavy cream, shot of Smirnoff Kissed Caramel vodka, and a pinch of ground cinnamon. Add ice and shake until cold. Pour into glasses and top with whipped cream and a cinnamon stick.
Mint HotChata In a small saucepan over medium heat, bring 2 cups milk to a simmer. Whisk in 2 tbsp. sugar and 2 tbsp. cocoa powder-- stir until no lumps remain. Stir in ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips until the chocolate is completely melted. Turn heat to low and stir in 1 cup RumChata and 2 ounces peppermint schnapps. Warm to desired temperature, then remove from heat and pour into mugs. Top with whipped cream, mint chocolate pieces, and a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Pumpkin Latte
Green Grinch Punch This is so easy, fun, and festive for the holidays! In punch bowl, mix 1 can pineapple juice, multiple scoops of lime sherbet, then add Sprite (or Sierra Mist, 7UP, ginger ale). It will foam up and turn green!
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Simply add to a small saucepan and whisk to combine for each serving: ¾ cup coconut milk; ¼ cup water; 3 tbsp. pumpkin puree; ½ tsp. ground cinnamon; pinch nutmeg; freshly ground black pepper to taste; 1 tbsp. maple syrup; ½ tsp. vanilla extract. Heat until just bubbling over medium heat, then add shot or two of coffee. Stir, pour, top with whipped cream and sprinkle with cinnamon. w
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For other great recipes, visit www.delish.com.
Accepting New Patients!
Family Medicine Iredell Family Medicine is pleased to welcome Howard Suls, MD, to its Mooresville practice. Dr. Suls has more than 35 years of experience and is board-certified in family medicine. He has worked in sports medicine for professional, collegiate, and high school teams, and has served as a medical director of nursing homes for over 20 years. He has a special interest in diabetic care, and encourages patients to live a healthy lifestyle through diet, exercise, and smoking cessation. “I strive to provide a collaborative approach with my patients. I take my role as their advocate very seriously.�
544 Brawley School Road, Mooresville, NC IredellFamilyMedicine.com
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feature
coverstory
a portrait of
success f
amily is not always a blood relative— it is someone who loves and cares
for you unconditionally. It is someone who always has your back and gives you straight answers with a selfless heart. When Dr. Naomi Simon founded Mooresville Dermatology Center in 2010 (as a part of the larger multi-specialty group of Piedmont HealthCare), few could have realized the impact it would make—not only on her life and the lives of her patients, but on the Lake Norman community at large. Dr. Simon and her team are, well … FAMILY!
“I moved here from Michigan after residency,” Dr. Simon explains. “My husband and I thought we were moving to the big city of Charlotte; however, we soon realized that the beautiful towns surrounding Lake Norman had their own heartbeat and culture, and we fell in love with the area and the people. We moved to Davidson in 2011 when our two sons were 1 and 3 years old and have loved being a part of the LKN community ever since.” Before Dr. Simon found her forever-home in LKN, her education allowed her to experience other areas of the country. She received her undergraduate degree at the University of Oklahoma with a bachelor of science in zoology and a minor in classical studies. Dr. Simon went on to graduate Summa Cum Laude, was inducted WRITER LESLIE OGLE
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PHOTOGRAPHER CHELSEA BREN
ETERNA AESTHETICS L TO R:
Laetitia Cloete, Aesthetician; Kristin Prochaska, PA-C;
Michelle Caamano, RN, BSN, Nurse Manager, Injectables; Naomi Simon, MD, Board Certified Dermatologist;
a decade of
Susan Stevens, RN, BSN, Nurse Manager, Laser; Erica Hernandez, CMA;
gratitude
Brooke Goodman, Cosmetic Concierge
into Phi Beta Kappa, and was named to the Letzeiser Honor List for the top 13 women graduating in her class. While a senior at the University of Oklahoma, she was the Oklahoma state winner and national finalist for the Rhodes Scholarship competition. She also spent a semester at a graduate level Christian theological studies program in California before entering medical school at the University of Michigan Medical School in Ann Arbor.
Dr. Simon is grateful for so many things in her life but her parents, husband, and kids top the list. “My parents have always been there for me and supported me every step of the way,” she says. “They gave me my faith in God and that has helped me get through everything in life. Both extremely hard workers, I get my work ethic and drive from them … they always taught me to work hard, love others, and put your trust in God and family.” The other person throwing his loving arms of support around Dr. Simon is her husband, Miguel. An immigrant from Cuba, he moved to the U.S. when he was just 18. Arriving with absolutely nothing, Miguel learned English as HAIR LACEE DUTY & ASHTON DUGAN FROM EVOLUTION SALON & DAY SPA MAKEUP MARIANNA GIBBONS & KAITLYN JONES
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a second language. He attended Georgia Tech where he earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees and also the University of Oklahoma where he earned his doctorate in aerospace engineering. “He’s such an inspiration,” Dr. Simon grins. “I've never seen anyone work harder … he sacrifices everything for our family. He cheered me on all through medical school and would not let me quit no matter how bad I wanted to sometimes … he was always the one saying, ‘You’ve got this! You can do this!’” Married for 20 years now, they have seen their share of struggles, but this power couple has been able to lean on each other, their family, and their faith to emerge stronger. When Miguel was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2011 (just one year after MDC opened), priorities shifted and plans changed. “The business was so new,” Dr. Simon recalls, “and he had to go through a year of multiple surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation. I called my mom and told her I was going to have to close the practice. She would hear nothing of it. She and my mother-in-law promptly packed their bags and moved in with us to help take care of Miguel and the kids so I could keep working.”
was squarely in front of us.” Part of the decisions they made as a family was to start exploring the world around them. Dr. Simon emphasizes how visiting other countries and cultures gives them an enriched understanding and appreciation of humanity. “It is a reminder to be grateful for our time together and to always live life to the fullest,” she noted. So far, they have traveled together to 22 countries; they went to New York Yankees ballgames (and caught a ball once!); they snorkeled with the stingrays, and they spent a lot of time visiting Cuba. “It was wonderful for the kids to meet new relatives and see the house where their dad grew up … priceless memories!”
Stevens, RN; cosmetic nurse injector Michelle Caamano, RN; and their own skincare product line that was personally selected by Dr. Simon and her team.
I feel one of the things God has given me in life is to help support other women and help them to be all that they can be. That’s my goal for the staff here … I want this to be as fulfilling a career for them as it is for me. “When you are faced with this kind of situation, you look to your faith and really start to get your priorities straight,” Dr. Simon reiterates. “Here we were with two small children, a new business, and health issues—the reality of limited time on this earth
MDC is in the process of building their new space for Eterna Aesthetics—opening by late spring of 2021—which will have two aestheticians including Laetitia Cloete; cosmetic concierge Tammy Rankin; cosmetic laser provider Susan
“Kristin Prochaska has been with me for almost 10 years and she is amazing—as are all my work family! I feel one of the things God has given me in life is to help support other women and help them to be all that they can be. That’s my goal for the staff here … I want this to be as fulfilling a career for them as it is for me. We are an all-female team (we do have one male PA, Justin), and we all have each other’s backs. We cheer for and support one another. It is really a special place to work, and I am grateful for each and every person on my team. I am grateful to God and I am grateful for my family and my business … here’s to 10 more—we’ve come a long way, baby!” w
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women
move
ON THE
JESSICA FRANCOVIG
(with husband Gino) recently opened Joyful Senior Living, LLC—a new assisted living home in Huntersville that provides assistance to seniors with daily living needs, medication administration, meals, recreational activities, etc. in a compassionate, loving environment. Their mission is to treat residents with dignity and respect and create a life for them that is filled with a sense of purpose and joy.
Lake Norman resident EMILY BOAT has launched her own business, Ship Me Style—an online, event-based styling service. Ship Me Style will work directly with you to find exactly what you need for your next event, vacation, or closet refresher. Follow them on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.
JODIE GOLAB was recently
hired as a sales executive with Lake Norman Woman Magazine. Taking advantage of all that LKN has to offer, Jodie loves being outdoors. She also spends much of her free time supporting cancerrelated causes—whether by volunteering, participating in fundraising events, or donating blood. Both Jodie’s son and husband are cancer survivors.
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BRITTANY WITHROW (along
with partner Jordan) is the owner of The Temple, a studio for self-care. They specialize in holistic services, restorative experiences, and personal retreats. Located in Cornelius, the studio offers all-natural beauty treatments for hair, skin, and nails; sound and energy healing; and a full-day immersion program called “Soulcation.”
Singer/songwriter/recording artist KAYLA VEGA continues to pursue her passion in the face of pandemic, working on her fourth original selfproduced song in quarantine. Kayla also has 20 songs on streaming channels along with two physical CD’s. She auditioned for American Idol in September, and she has played The Blue Bird Cafe, Tootsies, and Margaritaville in Nashville; the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center and the Evening Muse in Charlotte; and other venues from New York to South Carolina.
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 on Facebook or e-mail leslie@lakenormanwoman.com.
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self
grateful for our veterans
NOVEMBER 11 - VETERANS DAY 2020
Veterans Day
Congress passed a resolution for an annual observance, making November 11 a national holiday beginning in 1938.
originated as “Armistice Day” in 1919, the first anniversary of the end of World War I.
In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower officially changed the name of the holiday from Armistice Day to Veterans Day.
Unlike Memorial Day, Veterans Day pays tribute to all American veterans—living or dead—but especially gives thanks to living veterans who served their country during war and/or peacetime.
SOME NUMBERS:
9%
7 mil.
of veterans are women
veterans served during the Vietnam War
3 mil.
16 mil.
veterans have served in support of the war on terrorism
Americans who served during World War II, nearly 500,000 were still alive as of 2018
Information gathered from www.history.com
“The most important work you’ll ever do will be within the walls of your own home.” - Harold B. Lee AMANDA GLOWACKI OWNER / NC REALTOR ® 704-962-7889
DISCOVER home. UNLOCK happy.
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feature
soulsisters
A Soul Sister is someone you can talk to about EVERYTHING! You reminisce, learn,
soul
sisters
THIS MONTH, LKNW CELEBRATES SOUL SISTERS ERIKA BOGAN AND BFF AMY REGISTER
dance, sing, complain, MEANT TO BE
celebrate, play, cry, and
ERIKA: I was injured in a car accident
dream. Brought together
caused by domestic violence when I was only 21. Though the prognosis was not great, I simply refused to allow my paralysis to prevent me from being happy and active, searching instead for “outof-the-box” experiences for a full-time wheelchair user. And that’s how I met Amy—at my first Spartan Obstacle Course Race. She was there to help someone else complete a race who couldn't do it without a team. I knew instantly she was supposed to be in my life. I have learned so much from Amy. She truly motivates me to be a better me, every single day.
by fate and kept together by love, Soul Sisters are forever yin and yang … from the very first breath to the very last, they have each other’s back. WALK & ROLL
Our friendship is a gift. It’s a positive vibe when our spirits are low, a strong foundation to keep us balanced, a shoulder when we need someone to lean on, attentive ears when we need someone to listen, arms when we need a hug, and hands when we need something to hold on to. Most of all, though, it’s a steady, loving presence as we “walk & roll” together through life’s everchanging journey.
AMY: I was prepared to compete the day I met Erika, just as I had been nearly every
weekend for years. But for some reason, as everyone lined up for the start, I had the distinct feeling I wasn’t supposed to race that day. A friend walked by me on his way to meet the group helping a paraplegic complete the race, and he mentioned they were short a few team members. I volunteered, and my journey with Erika began with that 10-hour adventure. I believe Erika is part of my life for a reason… as I am in hers. Her strength (both physically and mentally), confidence, love of life, and free spirit radiate the same energy I want to live inside me.
Do you and your BFF want to be featured in an upcoming edition of LKNW Soul Sisters? Email Leslie@lakenormanwoman.com.
PHOTOGRAPHER MOJO STUDIOS
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WELCOME TO THE FUNNY FARM
We are very passionate about spreading health, happiness, love, and opportunity to all. We’ve created a very special place—our funny farm full of unusual four-legged animals—that allows us to do just that. The community has an open invitation to drop in for a dose of happiness anytime it’s needed. After all, it’s simply impossible to be sad while sitting in a beautiful area filled with goats, a pig, chickens, and bubbles.
DYNAMIC DUO
Erika is among many other talents, a life coach and I am a fitness coach. Erika connects with her clients by sharing her story of overcoming life’s challenges, and through Fit Inn, I bring joy into workouts so that people can enhance their whole wellness and not even realize they are exercising. We are a powerful pair, working to make ourselves and our community happier and healthier. As an extra bonus, I get to be her legs when she needs a lift and she promises to change my diapers when I am senile and can’t do it myself !
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aloud! family teens your teen, translated
ن اهي
MY NAME IS PRONOUNCED “NĂ-HĒ” and I was named
after my paternal grandmother. When translated from Arabic into English, Nahi means “delicate yet resilient.” My family originates from the Middle East, specifically the Levant areas of Lebanon and Palestine. My father always tells me, “Remember who you are and where you come from.” I am proud of my heritage and eager to tell everyone about our language, food, and traditions. However, I did not always feel this way. Growing up, I always felt like I was stuck between two worlds. I grew up speaking two languages, Arabic and English, while the people around me only spoke English. I was Christian, specifically, Roman Catholic, while most people in my area were Baptist. Often I find that I am the first Arab a lot of people have ever met. Sadly there are many negative stereotypes about Arabs in the world. The only Arabic people or characters you see in American media are terrorists in action movies, the news, or political ads. I’ve had people make plenty of terrorist innuendos and remarks towards me, which is very hurtful. Because of this, I have always felt an almost unspoken pressure to be on my best behavior. As an American of Mediterranean background, I am proud of who I am, but I feel out of place in society because I am unable to identify with any of the labels that have been created. I’m not a “person of color” because my complexion is “white” but I’m not “white” because of my ethnicity, culture, language, and life experiences aren’t the same as other “white” people. As a way to cope with feeling like I don’t fit in, I have decided to embrace who I am and share it with the people around me. I am also trying to be a voice for people who identify as Arab American because there isn’t enough representation of our customs, traditions, music, news, and food in the media. If you ever have questions about Middle Eastern culture, please reach out! I’m also copresident of MENASA (Middle Eastern North African Student Association) this year at Davidson College, and we’d love for you to come to any events regardless of your racial, ethnic, or cultural identity and background.
Nahi Nadra, 19, is a Denver resident and a sophomore at Davidson College pursuing a pre-medicine track as a biology major. In addition to her heavy course load, she is a leader of the Catholic Campus Ministry, Co-President of the Middle Eastern North African Student Association (MENASA), and works as a biology lab assistant. In her free time Nahi has several hobbies including playing the piano since age 5, listening to music, and watching/ critiquing movies. Above all, Nahi enjoys spending time with family and friends.
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WRITER NAHI NADRA
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self 8things
2 Presidential Billiards' Carmel Pool Table
1 Carrom Foosball Table
LKN Patio & Game Rooms
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gift ideas
men
FOR 3 Darts, Air Hockey, & Game Room
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6 Presidential Billiards' Shuffleboard
Grill Set
LKN Patio & Game Rooms
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7 Turntable Classic
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8 Carrom Stick Hockey LKN Patio & Game Rooms
Lake Norman Patio & Game Rooms, located at 847 Brawley School Rd. in Mooresville, offers unique décor and game room ideas that make the perfect gift for the man in your life.
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feature
that's what he said
that's what
Said
SPOILER ALERT: Men and women are different. Ok, so maybe that fact didn’t really surprise you. After all, it’s been 27 years since John Gray popularized the idea that men are from Mars and women are from Venus. And as much as we love sharing women’s stories, we decided it was time to lend the Martians of LKN our ear, too. This month we share the perspective of Sal Ciresi, co-founder of V3 Productions, an organization that seeks to help men identify God’s purpose in their lives.
V3 COFOUNDERS (LEFT TO RIGHT): SAL CIRESI, JOHN DORIA, DANIEL LLOP, & HOWARD STEINFIELD
What motivated the co-founders to start V3 Productions? We saw so many men in the community experiencing real and difficult challenges, especially during this pandemic. The loss of work, reduced wages, and the role confusion from working at home (for example, the dilemma of “Should I concentrate on my job or pitch in with schooling for the children?” and “What do I do with all this face time with my wife?”) caused many men to feel dissatisfied with their lives, but they had little or no access to committed assistance. We also discovered that men were unwilling to share these difficulties with their wives or significant others for fear that it would make them look weak and incompetent. So they were “stuck” and had nowhere to turn, which ultimately led many into damaging/destructive behavior, evidenced by the statistics on divorce in the months since Covid hit. It’s our goal to provide the support men need to achieve and sustain maturity in all areas of their lives and consequently lead, love, and respect the people in their lives.
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What does V3 stand for?
VISION: Where there is no
vision a man is sure to fail. VALOR: Every man needs to be valiant in pursuit and achievement of their goals VICTORY: Men achieve true victory by knowing God’s purpose in their life and being in His will.
How specifically does V3 Productions provide the support that men need to live happier, more fulfilling lives? Men need trusted friends who have no agenda and offer unconditional love during periods of stress and anxiety. V3 provides support to men, at no cost to them, through a mentoring/discipleship program and regularly scheduled events that include one-on-one study, group bible study, sporting events and activities, and special seminars that deal specifically with men’s health issues, relational issues, and work issues. V3 also provides opportunities for men to be of service in the community through the Charlotte Rescue Mission and Habitat for Humanity, which expands both their emotional and spiritual wellbeing. Our goal is to impact as many men as possible in our community--to achieve a selfless Christian brotherhood that produces better husbands, fathers, grandfathers, employers/employees, and neighbors. How do men in the community get involved with V3 Productions? Men can sign up by emailing sciresi2@gmail.com or calling 910-551-4678.
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feature
success story
find what you
love,
“FIND WHAT YOU LOVE, and you’ll love what you
do.” That’s the advice Jean Bock’s husband, Tom, has told her over the years. She did just that with her volunteer work with the upcoming Cain Center for the Arts, in Cornelius, which is slated to open in late 2022. “I’ve never had such a strong connection to any organization I’ve partnered with,” says Jean. The $25 million Cain Center has had over $17 million in pledges and contributions toward their fundraising goal. The Center will be home to a 400-seat theatre with a balcony, a gallery space, event spaces, classrooms, and much more. Jean and her family moved to the Lake Norman area from New York many years ago, after realizing that life in New York didn’t give them the quantity or quality family time together that they desired. “With Tom’s background in banking and our love of the water, we found the perfect home in Cornelius,” she describes. Their three adult children are Matthew, Lauren, and Allison. When the children were young, Jean was a stay-at-home mom. When Tom was diagnosed with stage 4 head and neck cancer five years ago, their lives as they knew them stopped. “For over a year, every ounce of energy, every breath we took had the singular goal of beating his cancer,” she emphasized.
JEAN BOCK CAIN CENTER FOR THE ARTS
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Having a career to return to was a blessing for Tom; and for Jean, being able to decide when and with whom she volunteered was also a blessing, except that she didn’t have a formal structure that pulled her back. She wanted to find something she loved. “That is when I found Cain Center for the Arts,” she says, “or maybe they found me – I just know this will be a place where others will find their own inspiration, self-awareness, growth, and a safe place to express artistic aspirations.” Through her work with the Cain Center, Jean sees a bright future for the community to develop artistic expression. “I hope to witness a child at the Cain Center connect with something they love either through a performance, a class, a speaker, or any experience the arts have to offer,” she says. “My work in fundraising is more than just about raising money to achieve a goal,” she continues, “to me, fundraising is about building relationships in our community.” Jean believes every person has the ability and desire to serve, but the challenge is in identifying their unique inclination and then channeling and fostering that relationship. “Through these relationships, and the dedication and passion of our board and staff, you can’t help but feel the infectious excitement,” she smiles. w WRITER MICHELLE LOVE
PHOTOGRAPHER MOJO STUDIOS
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WORDS matter
Words are magic. They actually change our brain chemistry! As wordsmiths here
Thankfulness is the beginning of
“I awoke this morning with devout thanksgiving for my friends, the old and the new.”
hopes they will help guide & inspire you.
Gratitude
is the completion of
thankfulness. Thankfulness may consist merely of words.
Gratitude
is shown in acts.
at LKNW, we are especially fond of words that will resonate with our readers, in
gratitude.
–RALPH WALDO EMERSON
“Gratitude is the healthiest of all human emotions. The more you express gratitude for what you have, the more likely you will have even more to express gratitude for.” –ZIG ZIGLAR
–HENRI FREDERIC AMIEL
ACKNOWLEDGING
the good THAT YOU
ALREADY HAVE
"
Gratitude creates a positive gravitational field, and is that which anchors and attracts the good to the orbit of your life." –DEVANI ALDERSON
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IN YOUR LIFE IS THE
“Gratitude turns what we have into enough."
foundation
-AESOP
–ECKHART TOLLE
FOR ALL ABUNDANCE.
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MIND body spirit By mixing the ingredients of attitude and action, we can change the flavor of our own lives. Learn to nur ture your body and soul to lead a more balanced life.
BAKE A
pie AND go … And while she let someone else bake the pies that day, she carried on—she carried on in her strength. She carried on in her vibrancy, her smile, her joie de vivre, her gratitude. And this is where I find myself after the death of my beloved mother on September 9, 2020. A day in which I decidedly DID NOT want to bake a pie and go nor carry on in any way … and then I remembered. I remembered my grandmother … and what was in all those pies she baked through the years: love and gratitude!
This is what my Grandmother Ogle would say when yet another one of her friends or family members died … and since she lived to be 96, she baked a lot of pies! This became an expression in our family for carrying on in the face of adversity … or simply dealing with daily challenges in a practical, problemsolving manner. And the key ingredients? Heaping amounts of love and gratitude. Even when she lost her only son, my dad, when he was just 56 years old, love and gratitude prevailed.
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being a student; getting her master’s degree; being a mom; how proud she was of her children; how proud we were of her. There was a commonality in all of our talks … gratitude. Gratitude for a life well-lived. Gratitude for her kids, grandkids, and siblings. Gratitude for her work and clients who became like family to her.
Now it’s my turn to be grateful. In the void and the pain and the loss may we find the love and the gratitude and the beauty. For though we may not see it immediately, there is beauty in death. And while I sit upon my bed and write this through the blur of tears, not yet a week since she left us, I am more aware than ever of how blessed I am to have had a mother like her, and I am grateful beyond measure. With 2020 and all its So I pick myself up and brush myself off challenges, may we remember to be grateful and am grateful. I am grateful my mother on a daily basis; was a beautiful spirit who and as helped so many people. As GRATITUDE my family a psychotherapist for more to OVER GRIEF! tries than 40 years, she was quite arrange a the teacher, and upon news of her passing, celebration the voices have been heard loud and clear— of life during containing such words as “savior,” “true a pandemic, friend,” “beautiful soul,” “amazing therapist,” I’m flipping “companion,” “confidant.” through my Grandmother In the months leading up to her death, Ogle’s pie we had the most delightful daily phone recipes … and conversations. We reminisced about it doesn’t hurt everything: our family trips together; her that Thanksgiving travels, particularly to Egypt and Turkey; her is here! marriage to my dad; being a homemaker;
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WRITER LESLIE OGLE
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The Gifts that Keep On Giving. Add a bit of merry and bright to your skincare this season.
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