Billings, MT December 2017

Billings BillingsLifestyle.com

DECEMBER 2017

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The Holiday COOKIE JAR CHEERS TO THE NEW YEAR HOME SWEET SCOUT & MOLLY'S A WONDROUS BILLINGS TRADITION

Tips for Approaching Elderly Loved Ones With the holidays coming up, many of us will be spending more time with elderly family members. This may be an opportunity to address some pressing questions and tasks, some of which might concern the rest of the family directly.

Visiting with parents, grandparents, and other elderly family members over the holidays can sometimes leave us at a crossroads. For instance, mom or dad might not be in the same health condition as the last visit, whether in a physical or mental capacity. Considering whether a loved one needs homecare can be mentally taxing and

emotionally draining and should take a wide range of factors into account.

Chances are, it will become apparent if your loved one is not as independent as they used to be. However, the next step can be the more difficult task. Approaching a loved one about the possibility of homecare is a touchy, and emotional subject. Remember to broach the subject with sensitivity and care. Your loved ones must feel that their opinions are being considered if their mental capabilities are up to the task.

Here are a few tips to consider when discussing the option of homecare with your loved ones.

• Focus on your loved one during discussions and keep him or her involved.

• Keep in mind that it may take some time and multiple conversations to come to a consensus.

• Voice your opinions using “I” statements.

• Don’t blame others or use “You” statements.

• Keep all discussions with your loved one positive.

• Don’t try to accomplish too much in one discussion.

• Be assertive but respectful.

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Lifestyle Letter

A Season of Giving

A

s we turn the page of this year’s calendar to December, it seems like it was just yesterday we were singing carols, unwrapping gifts and toasting to 2017. Now—as unbelievable as it may seem—it’s time to do it all over again.

The holiday season and the end of the year always bring about a feeling of reflection and a feeling of closure. Whether we’re jumping head first into the spirit of the season, enjoying time with family—no matter if the distance is near or far—or reflecting on the past year while making plans and setting goals for the next, December always has a way of keeping us busy.

While shopping for the perfect gift, prepping the perfect dinner or crafting the perfect toast can all become a little overwhelming, we encourage you to take a deep breath, take a step back and take in all the moments, memories and people that have made 2017 what it is.

When you’re reflecting on everything this year has brought, we also encourage you to reflect on those who haven’t had the benefit of people, memories and moments to make 2017 a year to remember. Those who are in need of a family to spend the holidays with, those who can’t afford to buy gifts and prep the perfect dinner, and those who may not even have a home to go back to.

Just as much as December is a time of reflection and closure, it is also a time of giving to those who haven’t been as fortunate. It’s a time to find ways to make the holiday season as special as it can be to those who haven’t seen 2017 as very special. Whether it’s volunteering your time at local shelters or donating your money to local charities, giving back to the Billings community can help make this time of year special for everyone.

DECEMBER 2017 PUBLISHER

Jeff Lethert | Jeff.Lethert@LifestylePubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Victoria Perry | Tori.Perry@LifestylePubs.com ACCOUNT MANAGER

Steve Lethert | Steve.Lethert@LifestylePubs.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Saskia Boogman, Stephanie Hower, Dana Lapinel, Jackie Mewbourne, McCoy Worthington CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Saskia Boogman, Colleen Kelly, Aaron Waller

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Merry Christmas, happy holidays and happy New Year, Billings.

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Billings Lifestyle | December 2017

TALK TO US

514 W 26th St, Kansas City, MO 64108 Proverbs 3:5-6

Billings Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Billings’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in Billings Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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December 2017

Departments

20

10

Around Town

12

Culinary Creations

16 DIY 26

Giving Back

32

Locally Owned

36

Lifestyle Calendar

42

Local’s Choice

12 Inside Billings Lifestyle's Cookie Jar

Cookie Recipes for the Holidays

20 Wondrous Winter Tradition

Welcoming the Season with Billings' Christmas Stroll

26 Charit(able)

The Miracles of Montana Rescue Mission

32 Home Sweet Scout & Molly's

Boutique Feels Less Like a Store, More Like Home

12

26

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Around Town

AROUND TOWN

CHRISTMAS STROLL A tradition in the Billings community for a quarter century, the Christmas Stroll celebrates the season on the first Friday in December, in conjunction with ArtWalk. With families in town for the weekend, the Christmas Stroll is a great activity for the people of Billings to usher in the holiday season. Join the community for gift shopping, strolling through downtown businesses enjoying eggnog, refreshments, photos with Santa, outdoor food trucks with hot cocoa, roasted nuts and Christmas trees for sale near Skypoint. For more information, please visit DowntownBillings.com.

BREAKFAST EXCHANGE CLUB OF BILLINGS TO TAKE PART IN DRESS A CHILD For more than 25 years, the Breakfast Exchange Club of Billings (BEC) has been a part of the Salvation Army’s Dress A Child event that takes place annually in December. In past years, BEC members have shopped with 50 or more children in need of necessities, such as winter coats, hats, mittens, shoes and clothing. This year, BEC members will shop with 70 children. To learn more about BEC, visit BreakfastExchangeClub.org or visit the BEC Facebook page.

ZOO YEAR - A NOON NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION Join us for a kid-friendly New Year’s celebration under the EEC ZooPavilion. There will be fun crafts, animal encounters and a ball dropping with a celebration apple juice toast at noon. If there is snow, guests are welcome to bring sleds and enjoy some snow fun on the hills in Bison Field. The zoo will be open regular hours, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with regular admission prices; free for members. For more information, please visit ZooMontana.org.

10

Billings Lifestyle | December 2017

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Culinary Creations

INSIDE BILLINGS LIFESTYLE’S

COOKIE JAR ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY SASKIA BOOGMAN

12

Billings Lifestyle | December 2017

SPECULAAS COOKIES A traditional Dutch spice cookie, Speculass has long been a Christmas time staple at Billings bakery Caramel Cookie Waffles.

Typically made in molds, these cookies can also be rolled and cut much like gingerbread.

INGREDIENTS 2 cups brown sugar 12 ounces unsalted butter, softened 3 ½ cups flour 1 egg, beaten 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/3 teaspoon clove ½ teaspoon nutmeg ½ teaspoon allspice ½ teaspoon ginger 1 teaspoon salt

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Cream brown sugar and butter together in a large bowl. Add egg and combine.

2. In another bowl, sift dry ingredients before combining into butter mixture to create dough. Chill for at least 15 minutes.

3. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F before rolling dough and cutting with cookie cutters. You can also use a wooden cookie mold in the traditional Dutch fashion.

4. Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are golden brown.

CONTINUED >

December 2017 | Billings Lifestyle

13

Culinary Creations

(CON TI N U ED)

CRANBERRY ALMOND SQUARES A favorite of chef Rich Boggs, this recipe pairs bright cranberry with almond and festive white chocolate.

“Cranberries have such a holiday feel,” he says. “They tend to be overlooked in desserts, so these bars are sure to stand out as a party treat or gift.”

INGREDIENTS 2 eggs 1 cup sugar ½ teaspoon almond extract ½ teaspoon vanilla extract 1/8 teaspoon salt ½ cup butter, melted 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries ½ cup chopped pecans 1 cup white chocolate chips

INSTRUCTIONS 1. In a bowl, beat eggs, sugar, extracts and salt. Add melted butter and combine.

2. In another bowl, combine flour and baking powder before gradually adding to the sugar mixture and mixing well. Fold in cranberries and nuts.

3. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Transfer mixture to a greased 13-by-9-inch baking pan.

4. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.

5. While still hot, top with white chocolate chips, let sit for 5 minutes and spread to create topping.

6. Allow to cool fully before cutting into bars.

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Billings Lifestyle | December 2017

Wrap It Up! 1. Start with an empty gift box.

2. Wrap cookies or bars in plastic wrap, then

tissue paper.

3. Place cookies in box and wrap

in festive paper.

4. Add a gift tag, then spread some

holiday cheer!

Located in the Shops at Shiloh Crossing 1027 Shiloh Crossing Blvd., Suite 4 Billings, Montana 59102 406.969.1006

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billings.scoutandmollys.com December 2017 | Billings Lifestyle

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DIY

FOR THE GIVERS WHO WANT TO TURN A GIFT INTO A PRESENT, HERE'S THE "HOW TO" ON WRAPPING LIKE AN EXPERT.

THAT’S A WRAP ARTICLE DANA LAPINEL PHOTOGRAPHY COLLEEN KELLY

| PRO TIP |

Putting your gift in a box can help give you a firm work space for wrapping gifts and will avoid lumpy packages. Use sharp scissors and double-sided tape to achieve the clean look. Also, as we learned, it's all about the creases.

16

Billings Lifestyle | December 2017

L

ike most things in life, presentation is key. Of course gift wrapping falls under this rule. Here's our 6-step life hack to wrapping like a professional. So say goodbye to amateur presents plagued with gift wrap gap or crumpled

corners, and say hello to perfection.

01

02

03

01

02

Cut enough paper to fit your package.

Double-sided tape is one trick to make our

Tucking under edges and creasing firmly

A great cheat is to use gridded

packages have a seamless elegance.

gives your package a nice sharp edge

wrapping paper.

03

and polished look.

04

05

04

06

05

06

Folding in the sides is an important step that

Once your sides are in place, it's time to

Just where the ribbon edges meet we

takes a minute to finesse—don't rush this.

cut your ribbon. We keep it simple here,

add a sticker to complete the package.

Hug the paper so it's snug to the box, and

too - no bows or frills - just a flat angled

If you're wrapping at home, consider

make a sharp crease. Use the double-sided

edge, taped down.

finding some fun stickers to add a little

tape to make everything lay nice and flat.

whimsey to your gift wrapping.

December 2017 | Billings Lifestyle

17

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Billings Lifestyle | December 2017

WONDROUS WINTER TRADITION Welcoming the Season with Billings' Christmas Stroll ARTICLE MCCOY WORTHINGTON

December 2017 | Billings Lifestyle

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WONDROUS WINTER TRADITION (CON TI N U ED)

Add caption from ARC: Photo courtesy of Mel Barbour, Downtown Billings Alliance

WHEN CHRIS MONTAGUE, OWNER OF MONTAGUE JEWELERS, THINKS BACK TO A CHILDHOOD GROWING UP IN BILLINGS DURING THE HOLIDAYS, HIS MEMORIES RACE TO DECORATED STREETS, FESTIVE LOCAL BUSINESSES AND FRIENDLY FAMILIAR FACES.

Now, as a business owner himself, he continues the age-old Billings tradition by decorating his own shop—like his downtown predecessors— with his kids by his side.

Today, the event is called the Christmas Stroll, and it stands as a time-tested mark of community, togetherness and a cheerful entry into the holiday season for locals.

“Everybody talks about Black Friday, and that’s all well and good, but I really like the feeling of the Christmas Stroll,” Chris says. “To me, that’s when the season really kicks off.”

A tradition spanning more than 24 years, the Christmas Stroll coincides with Billings’ ArtWalk on the first Friday in December. In a celebration meant to bring in the holiday season, the event features a range of Christmas-themed activities, tastes and beverages. Families have a chance to take pictures with Santa while strolling through the area’s decked-out local businesses. The community-focused tradition is highlighted by food trucks, hot cocoa, roasted nuts and Christmas tree sales.

When Chris reopened his business downtown more than a decade ago, he says he was excited to participate in the community celebration.

“In 2004, we reopened downtown,” he says. “We jumped in with both feet our first year being back downtown.”

He also relished the opportunity to contribute his own flair to the event. He turned to his wife’s family recipe for eggnog and started offering it at the event. In the years since, his holiday treat has become a hot commodity and a Christmas Stroll staple.

“Everybody was doing something different and fun,” he says. “We decided to do eggnog.”

Chris' drink has become so popular, in fact, that he now gets up on the morning of the event, cracks more than 75 eggs and prepares the beverage in water cooler-sized jugs. Throughout the day, his kids will even run delivery orders to other local business owners who are too busy to get away from their shops.

“It has sort of taken on a life of its own,” he says. “It’s a whole day’s production. People come down just for the eggnog.”

Although the eggnog has become a distinct feature of the Christmas Stroll, Chris is quick to point out the true value of the event stands in the message it promotes within the Billings community.

22

Billings Lifestyle | December 2017

“EVERYBODY TALKS ABOUT BLACK FRIDAY, AND THAT’S ALL WELL AND GOOD, BUT I REALLY LIKE THE FEELING OF THE CHRISTMAS STROLL,” CHRIS SAYS. “TO ME, THAT’S WHEN THE SEASON REALLY KICKS OFF.”

Add caption from ARC: Photo courtesy of Mel Barbour, Downtown Billings Alliance

“I really appreciate the Christmas Stroll and what it means for local Billings,” he says. “It lets people know that downtown businesses are open for business and we love participating in the community.”

In addition to serving his traditional eggnog, Chris will kick off this year’s event with a celebration a half-hour before the Christmas Stroll for Montague Jeweler’s 80th anniversary. He says the Christmas Stroll is a good reminder to value local business–a theme that is also at the core of his 80th-anniversary celebration.

The 2017 Christmas Stroll will run from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, December 1 downtown.

CLASSIC CHRISTMAS EGGNOG INGREDIENTS

10 eggs 4 cups milk 2 cups sugar ½ cup cream Nutmeg, for garnish Cinnamon sticks, for garnish ¾ cup bourbon, optional INSTRUCTIONS

1. Separate eggs. Whisk together egg yolks and sugar in a bowl.

2. Add milk, cream and bourbon. Blend together.

3. Before serving, beat egg whites and fold into mixture.

4. Garnish with fresh nutmeg and cinnamon sticks.

December 2017 | Billings Lifestyle

23

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Giving Back

Charit(able) THE MIRACLES OF MONTANA RESCUE MISSION ARTICLE MCCOY WORTHINGTON

T

he holiday season is sprinkled with

“Those special kinds of stories happen

stories of the miraculous. Although

every single day within the walls of our

they can become buried beneath the lights,

shelters—those miracles,” she says.

gifts and hectic routines, these positive tales

The Montana Rescue Mission uses

of goodness, charity and redemption live in

classes, counseling and a range of ser-

the core of the season. However, for Denise

vices to uncover the root of each indi-

Smith of Billings’ Montana Rescue Mission,

vidual’s homelessness. In addition to

such stories are not reserved just for

providing food, clothing and housing, the

December. Denise says at Montana Rescue

group offers recovery programs, finan-

Mission she sees life-changing miracles

cial management guidance and spiritual

happen daily through the charity of others.

recovery initiatives. With a focus on

Guests of all ages enjoy a hot meal at Montana Rescue Mission. Photo courtesy of Scott Streble

26

Billings Lifestyle | December 2017

“When somebody comes to us, we plant the seed and help them,” Denise says. “They might end up coming back; they might falter along the pathway, but we’re there to help them and, again, plant those seeds.”

Pastor Glenn Fournier, programs director, speaks with a guest.

Photo courtesy of Scott Streble

promoting self-sufficiency and overall wellness, the group works to

and become homeless. That was the first time he came to stay at

meet the needs of community members.

Montana Rescue Mission.

“Our No. 1 goal is helping individuals to get healthy and transforming

Unfortunately, the incident wasn’t the only tragedy to plague

their lives from where they’re currently at to a new life with better oppor-

Travis. Approximately 10 years later, he was traveling in a car with

tunities for their future,” Denise says. “When you walk in our door, right

his fiancé and friends. The group’s car lost control, resulting in an

on our door it says, ‘Do you want to get healthy?’”

accident that killed everyone in the car but Travis. Denise says the

When asked about inspiring encounters at the Montana Rescue Mission, she points to a former EMT named Travis. She says one stormy night, just as he was getting off of work, Travis saw a young kid running towards an irrigation ditch. He raced to the scene. Just as the child began sliding into the ditch, Travis rescued him. However, a downed power line

tragedy caused a downward spiral for Travis.

“That led Travis to the use of alcohol,” she says. “He was basically trying to slowly commit suicide with alcohol.”

However, somewhere during the tumult of his life, Travis remembered the positive influence of Montana Rescue Mission.

had electrified the water, and as Travis pulled the child to safety, he was

“He came to us again and said, ‘I need to get my life back on the

shocked by electricity. The child suffered burns on his back, but his life

right track again,’” Denise says. “So he came in and went through

was saved. Travis’ injuries were severe and caused him to lose his job

our New Life Program.”

CONTINUED >

December 2017 | Billings Lifestyle

27

Giving Back

(CON TI N U ED)

Denise says the changes in Travis’ life after entering the program

“It becomes pretty critical,” she says. “We get those donations in

were inspiring. Denise says his life has been completely transformed.

at our stores on a regular basis, and we pretty much stockpile them

He has been out of the shelter for more than two years now and is

as much as we can throughout the year, saving them, because I can

successfully employed within the community once again.

guarantee that by January, what we have put aside for winter is going

“When somebody comes to us, we plant the seed and help them,”

to be gone.”

Denise says. “They might end up coming back; they might falter along

Beyond the immediate needs for donations, Denise says volun-

the pathway, but we’re there to help them and, again, plant those seeds.”

teers are welcome and needed not only during the holiday season

As the holiday season approaches, the opportunity to contribute

but throughout the year.

to these life-changing and life-saving moments increases. From

“I encourage people to come out and get to know people we serve,”

November through February, Montana Rescue Mission implements

she says. “We have so many volunteer opportunities, and our doors

“Code Blue,” a program that invites individuals off of the streets when

are open 365 days a year.”

the weather drops below 32 degrees. For these individuals, as well

This holiday season, and throughout the year, donations can be

as the individuals regularly staying at the shelter, Denise says there

dropped off at any of Montana Rescue Mission’s Bargain Centers or

is a great need for winter hats, boots, gloves, hand and feet warmers,

either shelter. Items can also be taken to the group’s Support Service

coats and all kinds of winter clothing.

Office, located at 2902 Minnesota Ave.

Guests check in for lunch.

Photo courtesy of Scott Streble

28

Billings Lifestyle | December 2017

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QUESTIONS ON TAXES? NOT SURE WHAT TO DO OR WHERE TO GO?

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Billings Lifestyle | December 2017

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31

Locally Owned

HOME SWEET

Scout & Molly’s BOUTIQUE FEELS LESS LIKE A STORE, MORE LIKE HOME ARTICLE SASKIA BOOGMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY AARON WALLER

“W

hen a woman comes through the doors, I want her to be comfortable. She should be able to come in and find a special piece,

whatever her style,” Kirsten Harper, owner of Scout & Molly’s, says.

Walking through the doors of this lifestyle boutique at Shiloh Crossing, visitors will feel just that: comfortable. Scout & Molly’s is light and invit-

ing—the type of store that feels like a room you wish you had at home. Rich wood floors are offset by high ceilings, architectural details and the perfect pop of pink.

The store is feminine but elevated and inspired. From eclectic rugs to local art–specially commissioned from artist Chance Robinson–to textile hangings handmade by manager Heather Haws, Scout & Molly’s has a chic, classic style that maintains its Montana roots. And that’s important to Kirsten, who was raised in Billings and Columbus.

32

Billings Lifestyle | December 2017

“This store is really catering to the Montana buyer,” she says. “I want our collections to match the seasons and style while being really special.”

The selection at Scout & Molly’s is dedicated to fashion-forward shoppers but maintains a distinct, local vibe. Dedication to sourcing localized fashion that’s fresh led Kirsten to her first hire, Heather. Not only does she bring extensive retail experience, Heather also lends her own unique sense of style that offsets Kirsten’s.

"THERE IS NO ONE SCOUT & MOLLY’S WOMAN," HEATHER SAYS. "OUR CLIENTS HAVE VERY DIFFERENT BACKGROUNDS AND STYLES.”

“The two of us have complementary styles,” Heather says. “But that's really an advantage.”

Knowing clients is a passion for the Scout

This advantage is a shopping experi-

& Molly’s team. They not only keep them

ence that’s diverse, yet cohesive, allow-

in mind during buying trips to source new

ing guests to create a style all their own.

pieces but also as new product comes into

Pieces are meant to mix and match to

the store. Both women know that stepping

create unique looks.

CONTINUED >

December 2017 | Billings Lifestyle

33

Locally Owned

(CON TI N U ED)

“I’D LOVE FOR PEOPLE TO COME OUT, SEE THE STORE AND FEEL WELCOMED,” KIRSTEN SAYS AS SHE GLANCES AROUND THE SUNNY SPACE OF SCOUT & MOLLY’S. community or heading to the market to curate a new seasonal collection, Kirsten is deeply involved in her business.

“This is a local store, and that’s really important in everything we do.

“I’d love for people to come out, see the store and feel welcomed,” Kirsten says as she glances around the sunny space of Scout & Molly’s.

That passion can’t help but be felt in this boutique that feels less like a store and more like a home–and homes are meant to be shared.

Scout & Molly's, located at 1027 Shiloh Crossing Blvd., #4, is open 10 a.m to 6 p.m. Monday-Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. For more information, visit Billings.ScoutAndMollys.com.

out of your fashion comfort zone isn’t always easy, so they take it upon themselves to

“Our neighbors make us better and support our mission,” she says.

help women get out of their routines in a

Kirsten isn’t afraid to suggest her shoppers

way that’s comfortable. But don’t worry, this

visit stores nearby and knows that they also

hands-on approach doesn’t have to mean

send customers her way.

STYLE TIPS FROM SCOUT & MOLLY’S

Kirsten is excited about being part of

1. Elevate the traditional. For example,

Shops at Shiloh Crossing as she has a strong

pair your classic pencil skirt with an edgy

Scout & Molly’s reward system was also

belief in community involvement. Overall, the

vintage band tee.

created to keep clients in mind. With each

Shops at Shiloh Crossing are a group that

item purchased, shoppers earn points toward

puts a priority on giving back—and Scout &

discounts and perks.

Molly’s is no different.

expensive; the store features items at varying price points.

"Clients should always want to come back

“I grew up in a family that placed great

to see what’s new, to collect new pieces, to

importance on giving back to Billings,” Kirsten

say ‘hello,’" Kirsten says. "We want to reward

says. “Connecting to our community—that’s

them for that loyalty.”

a big mission for Scout & Molly’s.”

2. Take athleisure outside the gym. A hoodie, track pants or zip-up you can layer right into everyday outfits has a fresh feel.

3. Don't get too hung up on trends. Style really isn't something that can be bought.

Yet, even when it comes to loyalty, Kirsten’s

Involvement is a theme that runs

Becoming a fashion inspiration is confi-

view is refreshing. She knows that in Shiloh

throughout Scout & Molly’s. Whether

dently putting a look together and owning

Crossing there is a fair amount of competi-

it’s snapping a picture of a new item for

your style!

tion, but it's something she appreciates.

an out-of-town client, donating to the

34

Billings Lifestyle | December 2017

Billings Nursery

Let’s Reach New Heights Together.

& Landscaping

SINCE 1952

Balancing Art & Science

No matter what your financial destination, we believe it should start with a comprehensive plan that offers the greatest potential for getting there. By building personalized plans supported with investment products, we enable our clients not only to identify their goals, but to take consistent action toward achieving them.

To Create Beautiful Outdoor Spaces

175 North 27th Street Suite 1102 Billings, MT 59101

406-652-7744 ext. 106 www.brianlethert.wrfa.com

Brian Lethert, CRPC Financial Advisor

7900 S. Frontage Road, Billings, MT 59101 Securities and Investment Advisory Services offered through Waddell & Reed, Inc., a Broker/ Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC and a Federally Registered Investment Advisor.

billingsnursery.com 406-656-2410

(01/17)

December 2017 | Billings Lifestyle

35

Lifestyle Calendar

December DECEMBER 1 WARREN MILLER'S "LINE OF DESCENT" ALBERTA BAIR THEATER The lineage of mountain lifestyle continues in Warren Miller Entertainment's (WME) 68th full-length feature film, "Line of Descent." In this year's film, WME travels the globe, by land, air and sea, exploring the ties that bind ski culture, and the film even features the Beartooth Highway. AlbertaBairTheater.org

DECEMBER 3 "THE WIZARD OF OZ" RIMROCK AUTO ARENA There truly is no place like home as the greatest family musical of all time, the wonderful "Wizard of Oz," twists its way into Billings!

The entire family will be captivated as they travel down the Yellow Brick Road and beyond with Dorothy, Toto and their friends the Cowardly Lion, Tin Man and Scarecrow in this lavish production.

MetraPark.com and AlbertaBairTheater.org.

CONTINUED >

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Billings Lifestyle | December 2017

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December 2017 | Billings Lifestyle

37

Lifestyle Calendar

(CON TI N UED)

DECEMBER 7 & 8 THE 35TH ANNUAL TAX PRACTITIONER INSTITUTE MSU BILLINGS, MCDONALD HALL ROOM 163 One tax seminar a year is a must—and this is it! This is a two-day program featuring the latest tax updates. The institute combines real-life experiences with essential down-toearth tax materials, responding to fast-breaking new tax developments that affect individuals, estates, businesses and partnerships.

8 a.m. to 4 p.m. MSUBillings.edu

DECEMBER 7 CRAFT CIDER - LEARN & TASTE MSU BILLINGS COLLEGE OF EDUCATION, ROOM 122 Hard cider–just cider to the rest of the world— is the world’s fastest-growing beverage category over the last years. This is your opportunity to join the folks from Last Chance Pub and Cider Mill in Billings to explore this historical beverage. The class will feature ciders made right here in Billings along with others from around the world. MSUBillings.edu

DECEMBER 9 FOO FIGHTERS RIMROCK AUTO ARENA Rock on! Come experience the Foo Fighters live in concert. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the concert begins at 7:30 p.m. MetraPark.com CONTINUED >

38

Billings Lifestyle | December 2017

Good insurance supports you, guides you and empowers you. And so should a good broker.

Jami Lindgren

Chartered Private Risk and Insurance Advisor

406.373.8609 Wishing you warmest thoughts and best wishes for a wonderful holiday season.

Two Offices to Serve the Billings Community!

New Location!

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315 North 25th Street, Suite 101 • Billings •

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Shiloh Crossing 1002 Shiloh Crossing Boulevard • Billings •

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Same-Day Appointments! • Insurance Welcome & Maximized December 2017 | Billings Lifestyle

39

Lifestyle Calendar

(CON TI N UED)

DECEMBER 15 CHAD PRATHER PUB STATION BALLROOM Chad Prather is one of the country’s fastest rising and talked about comedians and entertainers. He has made numerous appearances on Fox News, CNN, A&E, The Blaze, MSN and has been featured in magazines from Southern Living to Nash Country Weekly. He is the host of Ride TV’s “It’s My Backyard.” He recently finished his wildly successful 2016 “Kings of Cowtown Comedy Tour.”

1111Presents.com

Merry and bright Let your confidence shine through this holiday season.

December Specials Bye Bye Brown Spots – 15% off all Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) packages Gift of Giving – For every $100 spent, receive a $10 gift card Specials cannot be combined with other discounts.

Facial Plastic Surgery and Medical Spa New location: Billings Clinic West 2675 Central Avenue

To schedule a consultation, please call (406) 657-4653 or visit billingsclinic.com/facialplastics Your face is complex. Trust it to the only physician in our region who is double-board certified in Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery and Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Dr. Matthew Wolpoe.

40

Billings Lifestyle | December 2017

WHAT DO YOU NEED MORE OF...

TIME OR IDEAS? TAKE THE FIRST STEP and start out the New Year by attending the LIFESTYLE MANAGEMENT VISION BOARD WORKSHOP on January 20th, 2018!

Lifestyle Coaching helps you clarify what you really want and take action to get there while removing obstacles in your path. I provide three types of coaching services based on your level of energy - MOTIVATING, ACHIEVING, AND OPTIMIZING. Lifestyle Concierge Services assists you in doing the things you don’t have time to do in order to reach your goals faster. I also provide a combination of coaching + concierge services to maximize your time and energy into living the life you’ve imagined.

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41

Local’s Choice

Cheers

"Happiest New Year 2018! May we see peace on earth for our children and grandchildren, gratefulness for being chosen to be born

TO THE NEW YEAR ARTICLE STEPHANIE HOWER

in this United States of America, appreciation for wonderful friends who walk this path with us, and prayer for love among all!"

—Pat Clark, Owner, Patricia Clark Weddings

"EVERY GOOD BOOK GETS BETTER AND BETTER AS YOU CONTINUE TO READ AND THE STORY BECOMES MORE COMPLETE. AS WE MOVE INTO THIS NEXT YEAR, LET'S MAKE SURE THAT OUR NEXT CHAPTER IS BETTER THAN THE LAST. YOU ARE THE AUTHOR OF YOUR OWN STORY— MAKE IT A CLASSIC!" —JASON "BIG J" HARRIS, HOT 101.9

"Tonight, I ask you

to

believe

that it's possible to decide to give yourself the grace of a fresh start–a chance to unbutton that top button after a big meal and enjoy feeling full. Tonight isn’t about empty promises … dare to believe that a little midnight magic might just be enough to cast off all those shouldhaves, would-haves and could-haves chasing us into this moment.”

—Cassie LaGreca, Owner, Better to Gather Event Design & Decor 42

Billings Lifestyle | December 2017

"Here’s to companionship, warm food and the roof over our head.

Now say goodbye to the last light of the day and be thankful for all that you are, for tomorrow brings a new year and, with it, an ocean of opportunities." —Aaron Waller, Owner, Graphic Finesse

"No more kitten around, it’s time for a toast. You all have the koalafications to put forth your best this next year, and you otter do it. Let’s have a year of good times, peaceful conversations and pawsitivity. When times get tough, let us grin and bear it. Gopher it!"

— Jeff the Nature Guy, Executive Director, Zoo Montana

Simplicity. Choice. Style.

Beautiful ranch style patio homes in The Woodlands

~

Bright windows with tons of natural light

~

Simple maintenance free living

1605 S. Shiloh Road Billings, MT 59106

BillingsBuilders.com

Mark Dawson 406.591.0021

Merry Christmas from our family to yours.

May all your holiday wishes come true!