Johnson County, KS January 2020

JohnsonCountyLifestyle.com

JANUARY 2020

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Better Living By Design KANSAS CITY, KS | KANSAS CITY, MO

LIFESTYLE LETTER

JANUARY 2020 PUBLISHER

Matthew Perry | matthew@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Angela Broockerd | angela.broockerd@lifestylepubs.com DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY

Paul Versluis | paul.versluis@lifestylepubs.com SALES DIRECTOR

Letter from the Editor

Frank Flores | frank.flores@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Matthew Endersbe

JANUARY MARKS THE BEGINNING OF NOT ONLY A NEW CALENDAR YEAR BUT

LAYOUT DESIGNER

ALSO THE OPPORTUNITY TO SET PERSONAL GOALS. Perhaps you’ve resolved to

Kelsey Proctor

exercise more regularly, take up a new hobby or volunteer more. The New Year signifies a fresh start, and it often motivates us to put our priorities into perspective.

I’ve been thinking a lot about how fast one stage of life morphs into another. 2020 will be the last full year that my oldest child will be living at home before he goes off to

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Angela Broockerd, Bethany Drobeck, Lisa Moyer, Rachel Murphy, Kayla Sprague, Adriane Taylor CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Janie Jones, Paul Versluis, Robyn Renae Photography

college. Wow. I often find myself wondering how it has gone by so fast. The thought of it prompts me to reflect on how we have spent our time as a family, the traditions we have made, how we have prepared him (or what still needs to be taught) for success in the real world, and mostly how I’m not ready for this stage to shift. So my list of things I want to accomplish in 2020 is quite a bit longer than usual as I try to hold on to the end of an era with all of my children under one roof. I will also be learning to embrace this changing season of our lives and appreciate the next chapter.

Our January issue is dedicated to health and wellness in the New Year: eating right,

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

physical fitness, purposeful connections and mental health. We are sharing stories of

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

healthy lifestyle transformations, mental health journeys, overcoming grief and tips on

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

staying physically fit. Whatever your goals may be, we hope this issue will inspire you to focus on wellness in the New Year. Here’s to a healthy and happy 2020!

Love, Angela

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson EDITORIAL MANAGER Nicolette Martin AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Angela Broockerd, Editor Angela.Broockerd@LifestylePubs.com ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO Proverbs 3:5-6

JohnsonCountyLifestyle.com ON THE COVER Lauren Lane Culinarian PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES 6

Johnson County Lifestyle | January 2020

Johnson County Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Johnson County areas’ 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 Johnson County Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE JANUARY 2020

FEATURES 16 The Power of Possibility Personal Trainer Abu Shabazz Trains Clients to Become the Best Versions of Themselves

28 Behind the Walls A Journey of Discovery: A Focus on Mental Health

33 Supernatural Grace Johns Family Love Story

33 16

40 Artful Food Open Kitchen and Journey to a Healthy Soul

40

28

DEPARTMENTS 6

Lifestyle Letter

10

Good Times

12

Healthy Lifestyle

16

Inspired By

40 Culinary Creations 48 Lifestyle Calendar 49 Realty Report 50 Parting Thoughts

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GOOD TIMES

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Johnson County Lifestyle | January 2020

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HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

Dads Making a Difference!

THE FATHER’S CLUB IS SIGNIFICANTLY INFLUENCING THE LIVES OF STUDENTS ACROSS OUR SCHOOL COMMUNITY

ARTICLE JUDY GOPPERT 12

Johnson County Lifestyle | January 2020

BRAD

HOLDHUSEN

AND

VINCE

STEPHENS ORIGINALLY CONNECTED IN LATE SUMMER OF 2018 AT A FOOTBALL AUCTION AND CAME UP WITH THE IDEA OF A WAY TO GET DADS TO BE MORE PRESENT IN THE SCHOOLS. They had a meeting with the principal of Blue Valley, Scott Bacon, expressing the idea of encouraging dads to have a real presence. In a little more than a year’s time, the Father’s Club concept has spread to all high schools within the Blue Valley district and to other schools throughout the metropolitan area on both sides of the state line. The club is gearing up to launch at Olathe East and other schools within the district will soon follow.

The premise behind the Father’s Club is to help dads have intentionality and to press into their kids and their kids’ school.

They want to complement what moms have already been doing so beautifully and have partnered with the B.V. Well parent group to help put wind in their sails.

“Our goal is to get dads’ butts in seats when speakers and events happen, where it has previously been 90 percent moms,” Holdhusen says. “Moms have crushed it in this area in their very unique, special and effective way for years. We believe it is time for dads to come alongside in a very intentional and complementary manner as we

dads from Blue Valley Southwest caught wind of it and asked to meet to discuss

are ‘better together.’”

how they could do the same thing at their school. The Father’s Club continues to

“A Blue Valley principal mentioned

grow throughout the district and beyond as more area schools catch wind. Two

how, as a society, we are losing our kids

Olathe schools plan to launch a club in the very near future. We are purely dads

to suicide, drugs, depression and tech-

just trying to make a difference in the community and our kids’ lives.”

nology, and he was excited to have dads

Each school has a chapter chair, and that chair has a steering group. They talk

involved. We knew it was meant to be

about topics affecting kids. They plan to have two large events a year. Previously,

and cast a net out to eight or nine dads

they had Rex Hudler, a Royals commentator and Blue Valley dad, as a guest

to have a first meeting on August 1, 2018,”

speaker, who says, “I was fortunate to play 21 years of professional baseball, and

says Holdhusen, co-founder and CEO

I’ve been broadcasting baseball for 20 years. That’s not my legacy, my legacy

of the club. “After a four-hour meeting,

are my children. We can share with each other about fathering and how hard it

we started the first Father’s Club at Blue

really is to be a good dad. Anybody can be a father, but not everybody’s a good

Valley High School. As time went on, a few

father. And it’s not just about being there for their own kids, but also showing up CONTINUED >

January 2020 | Johnson County Lifestyle

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HE ALTH Y LIFEST Y LE (CONTINUED) for teens in schools who may not have a father figure at home.”

Tim De Wees of Johnson County Mental Health also spoke of mental health awareness. The Father’s Club has partnered with Netsmart, and 25 dads from the club have become mental health first aid certified.

The idea became reality with a significant number of dads greeting students at the door with Chick-Fil-A chicken biscuits the first day of school and has grown into a weekly and monthly service opportunity for dads in the school community. Providing weekly supervision during the Tiger PAWS 60-minute lunch hour, meeting with and providing professional expertise and experience to AVID, leadership, and psychology classes, facilitating student-suggested workshops relating to financial literacy and social etiquette, treating students to breakfast at a local food establishment, funding “You Matter” bracelets for distribution by teachers to students, and hosting a “Mental Health First Aid Certification” training for fathers are just a few examples of the influence this group is making.

“The grass roots under the hood idea is connecting dads to each other. So many dads have reached out to me and said this club has impacted them as dads, their marriage and family life. People of all backgrounds and beliefs come together to unite for a common goal of love,” Holdhusen says. “Figuratively we can hand a big golf club to a dad, and he can smack the ball and impact his community and family, and all he had to do is show up!”

Such events the various clubs hold include dad podcasts, Dining with Dads on late start days at different restaurants and so much more.

“As a high school principal, words alone cannot describe the gratitude I have for the generosity and sincere care demonstrated by the Father’s Club. The idea shared with me a little over a year ago by two dads wanting to make a difference, is making a difference,” Bacon says. “Ideas that create positive influence and good will tend to grow beyond the garden in which they were planted. That has been the case with the Father’s Club.”

Visit FathersClub.org for more information and to join.

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Johnson County Lifestyle | January 2020

January 2020 | Johnson County Lifestyle

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INSPIRED BY

PERSONAL TRAINER ABU SHABAZZ TRAINS CLIENTS TO BECOME THE BEST VERSIONS OF THEMSELVESÂ ARTICLE BETHANY DROBECK PHOTOGRAPHY PAUL VERSLUIS 16

Johnson County Lifestyle | January 2020

T h e Pow e r o f Po s s i b i l i t y VALUE IS WHAT MOTIVATES ABU SHABAZZ TO WAKE EVERY DAY AT 4 A.M. before the sun is up, begin morning prayers of gratitude and start training others at the gym around 5 a.m.

Abu is a Certified Personal Trainer at Laser Sharp Fitness located at 13420 Briar St. Suite A, Leawood, Kansas 66209. On any given day he trains between 8-10 people starting early in the morning. Abu says he trains people from all walks of life from those seeking weight loss or just wanting to get in shape, to athletes and competitors.

Abu says, “I’m motivated by value. I want to make sure that there is value in what I do and who I am as a person. Having value is what motivates me to learn more about my craft and give people the best of who I am. Value gives birth to trust and in my profession trust is important; after all, people are entrusting you with their mind and body in hopes that the results will show like you told them it would.”

As a young adult, Abu was a boxer and a Golden Glove winner. Now he uses that expertise and passion to help other people achieve their fitness goals. He says, “It is truly a gratifying feeling to help a person accomplish something that they have wanted to accomplish but didn’t know how or perhaps didn’t think was something they could even accomplish.”

To help his clients reach their potential, Abu focuses on empathizing with them. He says understanding their needs better helps him to focus on attaining their goals. Teaching others to see the “possibility of things” is one of the reasons he wanted to become a personal trainer.

Abu got his start by joining a gym and training himself in hopes that others would see his progress and become inspired. It worked, and the manager approached him to begin working as a trainer. He says another reason he wanted to become a trainer is to make a difference and show people that “Our goals are all dependent on how we view things. Getting fit holds the same concept.”

After training others all day long, Abu picks his son and daughter up from school and daycare, takes college courses two days a week, and several times a week trains himself in hour-long sessions.

His drive to help others see what is possible for themselves keeps him going. He says, “If you look at a person as they are, they only become worse, but if you look at them as what they could be, they will become what they should be.”

CONTINUED >

January 2020 | Johnson County Lifestyle

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INSPIRED BY (CONTINUED)

HEALTHY EATING

WEIGHT LOSS TIPS:

+ Find a healthy food plan that works for your lifestyle because if you

+ Consistency is the key

are not able to stick to it, it definitely will not work.

+ “Inch by inch—everything can be a cinch”

+ Learn the kind of eater you are

+ You have to stick with it

+ Are you a grazer, an emotional eater, a stress eater, an

+ Everything has a season

I-forget-to-eat person?

+ You have to have a “why factor” that is greater than any craving

+ Find this out, then make the necessary adjustments to construct

that you think you have.

a healthy food plan that fits your life. + And remember—you don’t have to be good at it to get started, but you do have to get started to get good at it!

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Johnson County Lifestyle | January 2020

January 2020 | Johnson County Lifestyle

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Your Investment Portfolio: Strong Enough to Bend or Destined to Break?

By Ryan W. Brooke, CFP®, ChFC®

Financial Advisor & Principal at Searcy Financial Services, a Fee-Only, NAPFA Registered Advisory Firm

How many times have you heard “past performance is not indicative of future performance?” It’s true; just because one financial outcome happened in the past does not mean the same outcome will happen in the future, even if it appears that factors surrounding the outcome are the same. However, that doesn’t mean that testing on investment portfolios can’t help gauge their strength and viability for various market conditions. This is performed with stress testing and if your advisor isn’t talking to you about how they use stress testing, they should be.

What is stress testing? Stress testing is an operation done through software that helps illustrate how a portfolio may respond to various stressors and/or scenarios. These could be historical situations, such as the market downturn in 2008-09, or future hypothetical scenarios. For example, if there is a big trade deal in negotiations and experts are predicting that it could cause the S&P to rise or fall by X amount, a stress test could be performed to see how that rise/fall could impact the portfolio. If the range of outcomes far exceed what an investor is comfortable with or that the portfolio is designed to carry, then changes could be implemented to potentially make the portfolio more in line with the desired results.

Portfolios are built around individual goals and risk levels. The time horizon of the goals may help determine the mix of short- and long-term investments and the risk level may help determine the exposure to various market sectors within a portfolio.

Not all portfolios carry the same risk and even portfolios in the same “category” may not carry the same risk – for example, one aggressive portfolio may respond with higher variability and/or uncertainty than a different aggressive portfolio. Working with an advisor who monitors your investment portfolio, understands your comfort with risk, and understands other investments you have both in and outside of your portfolio helps you maintain a big picture view.

How often should you test? Stress testing a portfolio is not a one-and-done performance. Regular testing can help keep your portfolio in alignment with current market conditions or be performed before position changes are made for any reason. If current market conditions seem to indicate a change from a bull or bear market, stress testing may highlight areas that might not perform as well if a change were to occur. By performing a test and taking a closer look at your asset mix and sector exposure, you may find opportunity to rebalance before a significant loss.

Doing it yourself? If you’re a “do-it-yourself” investor, complications may arise when looking at the investments you want in your portfolio. It can be easy to look at the risk of each individual security or position and make a decision on whether you feel it is a good investment. Where you may get tripped up is by not factoring how specific investments interact with other investments in your portfolio. By ignoring the portfolio level of investment makeup and investment risk, you lose out on the big picture. Sometimes this happens because investors may not be thinking at the portfolio level and sometimes it’s because they don’t have access to software that allows them to test the interactions.

Stress testing can be an important step in maintaining a portfolio designed for current times.

Are you curious about the makeup and risk of your portfolio? For a complimentary risk analysis or stress test, please contact 913.814.3800 or Ryan@SearcyFinancial.com.

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insta-healthy Photo Credit Sarah Quinn

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Johnson County Lifestyle | January 2020

WELLNESS FOR THE WIN Shanna Hutcheson Website: WellnessForTheWin.com Instagram: @wellnessforthewin Shanna Hutcheson was born and raised in Kansas City. She is a wife, a dog mom of two adorable Australian Shepherds, an auntie, a registered dietitian and health & wellness blogger. She practices and promotes intuitive eating, which is a non-diet approach to health and happiness.

Her goal for her blog is to show people that living a healthy lifestyle can be simple, affordable, flavorful and fun.

“I want to inspire women to live a healthy, balanced life that they actually enjoy without restricting or obsessively counting calories. In addition, I hope women (and girls) who visit my blog feel empowered to love and accept their bodies, regardless of the number on the scale,” Hutcheson explains. Visit WellnessForTheWin.com for more information and resources on intuitive eating.

5-MINUTE PROTEIN OVERNIGHT OATS These overnight oats are full of good-for-you ingredients and will keep you satisfied for hours, thanks to the

5-Minute Protein Overnight Oats, Photo Credit Sarah Quinn

combination of protein, fiber and healthy fats! They are also a great meal prep breakfast option.

INGREDIENTS + 1/2 cup old fashioned oats + 1/2 scoop vanilla protein powder or collagen + 1 Tbsp chia seeds + 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon + 1/2 tsp vanilla extract + 1/3 banana sliced + 1/4 cup blueberries (or berry of choice) fresh or frozen + 1-2 Tbsp creamy almond butter + 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk or milk of choice Optional Toppings: chopped walnuts, pecans, dark chocolate chips, or my ALDI Pumpkin Spice Granola Mix INSTRUCTIONS 1. Combine all ingredients in a glass mason jar. Tightly screw on the lid and shake it to combine well. Use a spoon to stir as needed. Store in refrigerator overnight (for up to 5 days).

2. In the morning, serve cold or heat up in the microwave for about 45-60 seconds! Add desired toppings.

CONTINUED >

January 2020 | Johnson County Lifestyle

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INSTA-HE ALTH Y

(CONTINUED) Amy McDaniel, Photo Credit Anna Petrow

VEGGIE BELLIE: Amy McDaniel Instagram handle: @amymcdaniel.co Website: amymcdaniel.co Amy is a culinary and wellness brand strategist, writer, and recipe developer. After studying and working in corporate marketing, Amy quickly realized that she wanted to create a life around her forever love — food. By day, she works with local Kansas City restaurants and wellness boutiques on marketing, brand, and social media strategy.

Photo Credit Anna Petrow

By night, Amy shares her love of wellness through her various online platforms — always advocating for hormonal, mental, and environmental health; always staying authentic; and always leaving room for her twenty-something lifestyle sans the guilt.

“My biggest advice is to work in partnership with your body. Listen to it, support it, give to it, forgive it — and I promise it’ll give back. Repeat after me: I love myself as the most important and committed partner I will ever have.

Wellness isn’t about restricting — it’s really about giving.

Giving to yourself and to your body in a way that allows them both to thrive. The cool part? The things that give to your body naturally give to your mind, your hormones, your earth, your relationships, and so on — it’s all beautifully interconnected in that way.

Eat your greens, cook at home, choose local produce and quality meats, don’t be scared of healthy fats — but also support local farmers, move in a way that makes your body and mind feel good, prioritize times of mindfulness and stillness, fuel your body in a way that is sustainable for both you and the planet, practice gratitude and empathy, give yourself grace when you lose routine, don’t try to make changes overnight, ditch the guilt, and always always be kind to yourself.”

CONTINUED >

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Johnson County Lifestyle | January 2020

Spicy Thai Coconut Curry January 2020 | Johnson County Lifestyle

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INSTA-HE ALTH Y

(CONTINUED)

Simple Roasted Salmon with Dill Coconut Cream

SIMPLE ROASTED SALMON WITH DILL COCONUT CREAM

Grain-free Superfood Pancakes with Nut Butter, Blueberries and Cacao

GRAIN-FREE SUPERFOOD PANCAKES WITH NUT BUTTER, BLUEBERRIES AND CACAO

INGREDIENTS: + 2 6oz filets of wild caught salmon

INGREDIENTS:

+ 1 tbsp avocado oil

+ 1/2 Cup Paleo Flour

+ 1 tbsp coconut aminos

+ 1 cup Nut Milk

+ Zest and juice from one lemon

+ 2 Farm Eggs or Chia Eggs

+ 1 tbsp stone ground mustard

+ 1 Cup Spinach

+ 1 4oz container coconut yogurt, unsweetened

+ 1 tsp. Matcha

+ 2 tbsp fresh dill, minced

+ 1 tsp. cinnamon

+ 2 tbsp capers, drained and minced + Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS: 1. Scoop of collagen protein powder (optional)

DIRECTIONS:

2. Blend ingredients together, fry in coconut

1. Marinate the salmon in the lemon juice, coconut aminos, and

or avocado oil and then top with nut butter,

stone ground mustard for up to two hours.

blueberries and cacao.

2. Drizzle salmon with avocado oil, sprinkle with salt and ground pepper, and broil on high for five to seven minutes, until cooked to desired temperature.

3. Mix coconut cream, lemon zest, dill, capers, and ground pepper together.

4. Top salmon with coconut cream, serve with roasted or sautĂŠed veggies, brown or cauliflower rice, or fresh greens. Enjoy!

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Johnson County Lifestyle | January 2020

ARTICLE KAYLA SPRAGUE | PHOTOGRAPHY ROBYN RENAE PHOTOGRAPHY

BEHIND THE WALLS

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Johnson County Lifestyle | January 2020

LAST YEAR, I REALLY WANTED TO DIE. I loved God. I loved my family. But I was convinced everyone would be better off without me. “I’m the problem. There’s something wrong with me.” Or so the voices in my head would scream on repeat like police sirens until I pulled over long enough to believe them.

In May 2018, I received a diploma. Most consider this milestone an accomplishment, I see it (and the fact that I am still breathing today) as a miracle. Before graduation, I intermittently lost the ability to use the right side of my body. I lost my freedom and independence, and eventually I lost something even more valuable—hope.

Friends transcribed papers, tied my shoes, and took me to and from school. Holding my hand while anxiety gripped the night and at scary doctor appointments, they showed me what being “with” is all about. We tried to laugh through the pain, and they pushed me toward my dreams, even at times, in a wheelchair.

That summer brought the darkest spiral my mind and heart have ever faced. This affected everyone who loves me. Ups and downs became patterns as nerve tests, chronic pain, mood-altering prescriptions and question marks were a constant reality.

Panic took real estate in the hours intended for rest. Night terrors were the norm, and naps were a necessary escape. Suicide felt like the most selfless thing I could to do for the people I loved most. I wanted to relieve them of the burden I believed myself to be.

A friend made me promise to get help on a day I had planned to end it and said, “We all need people. It won’t always be like this.” And she was right. That promise, the people that held me to it, and a faithful God who isn’t afraid of doubt are the reasons I get to be here. I checked myself in and started counseling.

Bob Goff says, “God doesn’t pass notes, He gives us friends.” My friends saved me from myself in moments of extreme CONTINUED >

January 2020 | Johnson County Lifestyle

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BEHIND THE WALL S (CONTINUED)

vulnerability and confusion. God revealed His love through the presence of those who chose to walk two miles, when I only knew how to ask for one.

I like living. And I like you living, too. I’m grateful to still be here. I know many, like me, who have struggled with depression, anxiety, and suicide are no longer with us. This breaks my heart in ways no words could ever express, and nothing can ever “fix.” I wish I could bring them back. I wish I could hug their families and give them what mental illness and a moment of weakness took from them.

This is why I have to share my story.

More of us need to make it. And we need to know we are not alone in the fight for our lives. Maybe, even as you read this, someone you love can’t shake the heaviness. Or maybe things feel incredibly dark for you right now. I am so sorry.

Physical, emotional, and mental pain are real and connected. Often, we only validate what we can see on the outside. But there is so much more going on behind the carefully curated posts and personalities we present. Sometimes it’s the people we would least expect who are facing the things we could never imagine. No matter what we see on the outside, it’s only part of the story. No matter what you feel on the inside, that’s only part of the story too.

Show up if you need to. Step back if you need to. Both are courageous, needed, and healthy at times.

I’m convinced of a few things: Darkness and depression don’t get to win.

God is near. He may feel far, but feelings don’t always tell the truth. He hasn’t forgotten about you. If the weight feels unbearable, it won’t always be like this. And asking for help is strength, not weakness. I promise. Practically, counseling helped me sort through piles and put things where they belong.

You are a gift. You are going to make it. You are good for people. And you are not alone. Sing. Run. Make that phone call. Drive. Eat gummy bears.

Take a hot shower. Pray. Show up when you want to stay home. Worship.

Communicate what you need to the people that love you. They want to help.

Surround yourself with people (and animals) that you can hug and serve and love and give-of-yourself to, especially when you feel like you have nothing left. I know it’s not that simple, but it’s a start.

Life is beautiful, and I can finally see (and feel) the light again. I hope you can too. And if you can’t yet, it’s not going to be like this forever. I’m praying for you to experience the peace of God as the safest place you have ever known. I know I have, but it took months before I could “feel” it.

To my friends, thank you. Every morning, I thank God for the gift of friendship you chose to give in the moments that mattered most. You saw what the depression, fear, and self-hatred blinded me from and showed me what is real. Let’s be that kind of friend to someone else this year.

To you, thank you. Thank you for reading my story, but more importantly, thank you for living yours. People need you.

Please don’t give up.

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Johnson County Lifestyle | January 2020

“LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL, AND I CAN FINALLY SEE (AND FEEL) THE LIGHT AGAIN. I HOPE YOU CAN TOO. AND IF YOU CAN’T YET, IT’S NOT GOING TO BE LIKE THIS FOREVER.”

January 2020 | Johnson County Lifestyle

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Johnson County Lifestyle | January 2020

S u p e r n at u r a l Grace

JOHNS FAMILY LOVE STORY

ARTICLE ADRIANE TAYLOR CONTINUED >

January 2020 | Johnson County Lifestyle

33

SUPERNAT UR AL GR ACE (CONTINUED)

“I KNOW THAT NOTHING CAN TAKE THE PAIN AWAY, BUT THERE’S SOMETHING ABOUT PAIN AND TRAGEDY AND GRIEF. When we allow Jesus to walk with us, and surrender it to him, it is precious to him. On the other side of that grief is heaven where there is no pain. There is only love and joy and goodness.” — Sarah Johns She danced in worship with a childlike faith, blonde hair flowing as she captured the goodness of Jesus with every heartfelt twirl. The empty pews of Church of the Rock were filled with warmth as Elise Johns engaged in the most joyous of praise. It was her second home and a place where she felt liberated in honoring the Lord—the occasion lovingly recorded by one of her biggest fans, her mother Sarah Johns. It is a moment that would forever encapsulate the essence of who Elise is. But it is the events that occurred just weeks later that would release Elise’s divine

different—it is a trip that altered the course of their lives. Right

spirit far beyond the walls of this Kansas City church.

before 9 a.m., Sarah received a shaky, tearful call from Jason letting

The morning of August 23, 2017 began in typical fashion of a

her know there had been a bad accident. He handed the phone to

busy family of five, Kaden, 10, Elise, 8, and Hope, 5. Jason and

police where she was immediately told the accident was not her

Sarah Johns were amid balancing pastoring in the inner city, work

husband’s fault but that there were significant injuries: Jason had

life, family life, and community life, and Sarah Johns was up before

glass in his hand and a lacerated spleen; Kaden suffered a broken

sunrise to get a start on her heavily scheduled day. At a time when

wrist; Hope, severe whiplash, a concussion that would eventually

two of her three children are usually sleeping, Sarah was blessed

result in spinal cord injury, and a compromised appendix; and

with a rare request when middle child, Elise, sought a morning

Elise, a traumatic hit to her head that left her unconscious and not

goodbye. She looked up at her mother with a smile of adoration.

breathing. Miraculously Elise’s heart was resuscitated, and she and

The mystical beauty in Elise’s eyes said that no matter what the

her siblings were transported to Children’s Mercy.

future would bring she would always be with her family. It is an instant that Sarah would be forever grateful.

Driving with a flood of emotions, Sarah arrived at the hospital.

Hope was in surgery, and her husband was being treated next door

The morning progressed as usual, and Sarah went to work at a

at Truman Medical. She recalls entering PICU room 11 where a team

local gym while her husband ensured the children were prepared

of physicians surrounded Elise with the neurosurgeon standing near

and loaded into the car just in time to get to school. But this trip was

her head. The heaviness of the events was enhanced as they took

34

Johnson County Lifestyle | January 2020

Sarah to a private room with Jason being telephoned in. The words,

with Lord. The beauty in this tragedy is that the Johns family received

“Your daughter has brain death and there is nothing we can do,”

the gift of five additional days with Elise when she was not expected

caused her to collapse to her knees and proclaim, “There is some-

to make it beyond the site of the accident. And because of this her

thing we can do! We can pray!” Prayer is something she continued to

organs were able to be donated. Beyond her time here on earth, Elise

do throughout the night, and it was one conversation with God that

was able to give life to people who had been on waiting lists for years.

elicited a mindset switch. Sarah pleaded, “What am I going to do?

But life does not stand still in the shadow of tragedy. Following

How am I going to make it without her?”

the accident, Hope was in the hospital for more than eight months

His response was swift: “How would Elise want you to live? Would

as she underwent several surgeries and therapies in the wake of her

she want you to wallow and be depressed, although you have every

paralysis. It was because of her tenacity that she has made incredi-

right to be? Elise would want you to make every moment count. Elise

ble strides despite her medical setbacks. The journey with Hope was

would want you to be a good mommy to Kaden and Hope. Elise would

overwhelming, but the family decided to take care of all her needs at

want you to live your best life. Elise would want you to bring light and

home, and although she faces challenges daily, she is thriving. Kaden,

love wherever you go, not out of obligation but out of honoring her.”

now 13, also had to come to terms with the accident and questioned

In that moment she made the choice that for the sake of their

why it happened at all. But, Sarah explained, there simply is no why.

daughter, she would live life to the fullest, and this decision would be

It was just an accident. Now they choose to focus on the power of

continuously challenged. On August 28, 2017 Elise transitioned to be

forgiveness and not to stew in negative feelings and not to blame God. CONTINUED >

January 2020 | Johnson County Lifestyle

35

SUPERNAT UR AL GR ACE (CONTINUED)

“We live in a fallen broken world,” Sarah explains.

“I don’t blame God. He’s the one that I turn to who can help bring any sort of life and healing and redemption from tragedy. Not just in big tragedy but also in little tragedies that happen in life.”

Sarah is forever thankful that before the accident she allowed the Lord to fully capture her heart.

The family is overwhelmed by the amount of support they have received through the community.

She also credits Jason in making this time livable.

“Knowing and encountering the goodness of God and discovering more of that is what has truly helped me.”

He helped ensure they had more time with Elise.

She credits his being an incredible man, husband and father as a reason they can walk together in grace. Even though his journey and grief are different from hers, both have grown in who they are and how they heal and choose to live their lives in a way that celebrates every breath. It is through the legacy of Elise that the Johns family has been enriched by the power of grace, the power of community, the power of choice and the power of forgiveness.

“My relationship with the Lord and running to Him and worship has been the No. 1 key that has helped me personally walk through it the way that I have. Knowing and encountering the goodness of God and discovering more of that is what has truly helped me.”

Visit Facebook @ Johns Family Love Story 36

Johnson County Lifestyle | January 2020

January 2020 | Johnson County Lifestyle

37

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Agreeing in writing can help to make sure that the parenting time shift is formalized. It’s also important for each parent to be kind to each other about problems that might arise during the holidays and continue to work for a positive relationship.

Johnson County Lifestyle | January 2020

A parent heading for divorce may retain a family law attorney who can represent their interests in court. The family lawyer could advocate for their relationship with the child and obtain a court order that reflects the child’s best interests.

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CULINARY CREATIONS

“ I ’ m p r o o f t h at i t ’s p o s s i b l e to r e i n v e n t yo u r s e l f, sta rt ov e r a n d f o l l ow yo u r pas s i o n .

40

Johnson County Lifestyle | January 2020

AR TF UL F OOD

“Our friends always know my kitchen is open, and food will be served with laughter and love,” Lauren says. “My all-time favorite compliment was ‘Hospitality is love in action, and your home exuded that tonight…we all left better than we came in.’”

At first, Lauren didn’t know how to run a business, create a brand, or become an influencer, but she took classes, researched, and made mistakes—learning

OPEN KITCHEN AND JOURNEY TO A HEALTHY SOUL

to leverage her art degree and creative/marketing experience from Hallmark as she built her website, shot professional photos and blogged. She now loves the creative freedom to work from anywhere,

ARTICLE LISA MOYER PHOTOGRAPHY JANIE JONES

to choose daily inspirations and to pursue business relationships that feel right.

Her favorite memories always involve food and loved ones, including her mom’s pot roast Sunday suppers—especially

meaningful

since

Lauren’s

mother passed at Thanksgiving. “I cherish those memories. They led me to my current profession.”

LAUREN LANE CULINARIAN IS AN AUBURN-

Lauren’s dream is to someday cook with Ina

HAIRED DYNAMO WHO REFUSES TO BE FRO-

Garten, the Barefoot Contessa (“What a wealth of

ZEN IN AMBER. Only two years ago at age 50, she

knowledge!”) Or maybe have a TV show… dream big,

burst forth into our kitchens as a bold new brand

right? Till then, Lauren is working on her own product

whose warm presence felt right at home.

line, book and videos, aligning her brand with com-

After 25 years in the corporate world at Hallmark, she quit her job and followed her passion into the culinary arts. With no formal chef training, Lauren Lane Culinarian was born. She’s cooked at the

patible companies and considering how to broadcast her cooking classes to reach more people.

To banish negativity, Lauren meditates daily, quieting herself to get clarity.

KC Taste Event alongside professional chefs and

“I believe that I was created for a specific purpose

celebrities. She’s exploded onto social media as a

(I think we all are) to share my talents and passions

natural-born influencer. Her food creations, recipes

with others. I absolutely deep down believe that the

and entertaining secrets are as bodacious as her

next great thing is right around the corner.”

charcuterie boards; yet simple, practical, accessible, thrifty and lovely—just like she is.

“It’s never too late to reinvent your life,” Lauren says.

“If you love doing something, then do it. A lot. Then

Lauren-Lane.com Instagram @lauren_lane_culinarian Facebook Lauren Lane Culinarian

figure out a way to do it more, and success will follow.”

And it is. Hired for the second year as a brand ambassador for KC’s own Cervasi (Italian food/products), Lauren has taught at the Culinary Institute, hosts sold-out dinner parties, makes TV and press appearances and often travels as a personal chef, sourcing markets in Insta-worthy locales.

Constantly honing her skills in blogging, photography, food styling and recipe development, Lauren rises early to keep up with the speed of her thoughts because her goal is to slow down that evening with her husband, friends or guests over delicious food and wine.

CONTINUED >

January 2020 | Johnson County Lifestyle

41

CULINARY CRE ATIONS (CONTINUED)

8-Minute Salmon with Warm Orzo Salad (serves 4)

ORZO SALAD INGREDIENTS: + 1 tablespoon balsamic or red wine vinegar + 1 green onion, chopped + 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped + 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil (Cervasi recommended) + ½ teaspoon kosher salt + ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper + 1 ½ cups orzo (Cervasi recommended) + 2 ounces fresh baby spinach or baby kale (about 3 cups not packed) + 1 ½ cups roasted cubed butternut squash or substitute other roasted vegetables - Brussel sprouts, carrots, broccoli or grape tomatoes. + ½ cup dried cranberries, chopped dates or raisins + ½ cup pine nuts, toasted (optional) + 1 cup (4 oz.) crumbled goat cheese or feta FOR THE SALMON: + 4 5-ounce skinless salmon fillets + Olive oil, for coating fish + Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper + 4 tablespoons chopped green onions (green part only) for garnish METHOD: 1. In a large bowl, whisk the vinegar, green onions and garlic together.

Gradually whisk in olive oil. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

2. Bring a saucepan of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the orzo and cook, stirring often for about 8 minutes or until tender.

3. Drain the orzo in a sieve and toss the warm orzo, spinach, vegetables, cranberries and pine nuts (if using) with the vinaigrette.

Season to taste with salt and pepper. The heat of the orzo will wilt the spinach slightly.

4. Mound the salad in the center of a large serving platter or four dinner plates. Sprinkle with the goat cheese. Top with the salmon, sprinkle with the green onions and serve.

FOR THE SALMON: 1. Preheat broiler and set oven rack to 6 inches below broiler element.

2. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil or coat baking sheet with olive oil.

3. Season salmon over surface and sides with olive oil, salt and pepper.

4. Broil salmon until browned on top and the center registers about 125 degrees F. for medium-rare to medium, approximately 5-8 minutes depending on oven temperatures. If salmon becomes well browned on top before finished cooking, set oven to 425 degrees F. and continue cooking until done (approximately 1-2 minutes).

42

Johnson County Lifestyle | January 2020

LEEK AND SPINACH FRITTATA INGREDIENTS: + 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (Cervasi recommended) + 1 cup chopped leeks (white and green parts only) halved lengthwise, sliced 1 ½ inch thick and rinsed + 3 cups chopped spinach or kale, not packed + 8 large eggs + 1/3 cup milk + ½ teaspoon salt + ½ teaspoon ground black pepper + 1 cup crumbled goat cheese (Cervasi recommended) + ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese METHOD: 1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Add olive-oil to oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté leeks for about 5 minutes. Add the spinach and cook until just wilted, about 2 minutes.

2. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, lightly beat together eggs, milk, salt and pepper. Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables once they are tender. Sprinkle goat cheese and parmesan over the top.

3. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake until the top is lightly golden, about 10 minutes. Ovens vary so check to see if the eggs are cuffed and set. It’s okay if the middle of the frittata still has a little jiggle to it—the eggs will continue to cook for several minutes once you remove from the oven.

Slice and serve warm.

CONTINUED >

January 2020 | Johnson County Lifestyle

43

CULINARY CRE ATIONS (CONTINUED)

HEARTY MINESTRONE SOUP INGREDIENTS: + 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (Cervasi recommended) + 1 large onion, diced + 3 celery stalks, diced + 4 garlic cloves, chopped + 2 teaspoons basil, dried + 1 teaspoon oregano, dried + ½ teaspoon thyme, dried + 1 ½ teaspoon salt + 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper + 1 pinch of red pepper flakes + 1 28 ounce can diced tomatoes + 1 15 ounce can white kidney (cannellini) beans, rinsed and drained + 2 bay leaves + 1-2 parmesan rinds (optional) + 7-8 cups chicken or vegetable stock + 1 cup small pasta soup shells, dry (Cervasi recommended) + 4 large handfuls of spinach or kale, coarsely chopped + ¼ cup parsley, chopped + ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (optional but delish) + Italian crusty bread loaf for serving 44

Johnson County Lifestyle | January 2020

METHOD: 1. Preheat large Dutch oven or heavy bottom pot on low-medium heat. Swirl olive oil in bottom of pan to coat. Add onion, celery and garlic. Sauté until tender, stirring occasionally.

2. Add next 11 ingredients and stir. Bring to a simmer, cover and cook on low for 30-45 minutes. Add pasta and cook for additional 5-8 minutes. Remove the parmesan rinds.

3. Remove from heat. Scoop 2 cups of soup from the bottom of the pot and blend until smooth. Return blended soup to the pot.

This will make the whole pot of soup creamy.

Skip this step for a non-creamy soup.

Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender and place it in into the whole pot and blend briefly.

4. Add spinach or kale, parsley and basil.

Adjust seasoning to taste. It will likely need more salt.

5. Serve hot with shredded Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of olive oil and crunchy bread.

LAUREN’S TIP: To serve this soup for easy entertaining, make the soup the day before and reheat it before your guests arrive. Serve with a simple green salad, bread and don’t forget the pretty garnish and a lovely bottle of wine. Buy a simple dessert and this is a great and inexpensive way to have a dinner with your friends. This soup will get very thick when refrigerated. Add more stock or water to thin if needed.

January 2020 | Johnson County Lifestyle

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M oving, Downsizing and Selling Your Home

Tuesday, Jan. 21 • 2 – 4 p.m.

Join us at Cedar Lake Village as we welcome professionals in real estate, downsizing and moving. We will hear f rom Brian Walton with Assisted Moving of Kansas City, Steve Kornspan with Senior Living Spot and Tony Drew with Centur y 21 All-Pro. They will be here with tips and tricks to get the process started and are prepared to answer your questions during this interactive workshop.

To learn more or to RSVP, call (913) 780-9916.

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January 2020 | Johnson County Lifestyle

47

JANUARY

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

4

10

25

90'S MUSIC BINGO AT KC WINE CO

2020 LEMON MIXER

1860S DANCE PARTY

Jump around to The Cidery where

The 2020 Lemon Mixer, in its' 5th

Historic Site

you're invited to play 90's Music Bingo

year, is a great place to enjoy won-

Join in the fun and wear your best

with us. We dare you not to sing along.

derful appetizers, Signature Tito's

1860s attire, or come as you are for

+ 90's attire is highly encouraged.

cocktails and entertainment, while

the festivities. Enjoy live music by

+ Ages 21+

raising money for childhood cancer

the Gum Springs Serenaders and

+ Drinks and snacks are available for

research. KC Royals outfielder, Alex

live calling by Debrah Hyland. Light

purchase, no outside items allowed.

Gordon is our special guest along

refreshments will be served at inter-

with Christa Dubill, who will emcee

mission. Each attendee will have

7

the evening. For information about

two drink tickets. Tickets are $15 in

sponsorship opportunities, tickets, or

advance or $18 at the door.

DECODING THE PSYCHO-BABBLE OF ADHD: WHAT DOES IT MEAN?

Susan.Blowey@AlexsLemonade.org.

KC Wine Co. Vineyard & Winery

Johnson County Library - Leawood

Pioneer 4700 Town Center Dr, Leawood

This talk will include a crash course

1901 Cherry St, Kansas City, Mo

donations, contact Susan Blowey at

18

25 PRINCESS SKATE

The Ice at Park Place

BEER TASTING CLASS : IPA'S

Dress like your favorite Little Princess

Red Crow Brewing Company 1062

or Prince. Each child will receive a

when discussing ADHD and what

W. Santa Fe, Olathe

free crown (while supplies last).

these terms mean. Learn how you

Come spend a Saturday afternoon

can use these terms and concepts

learning, drinking and nerding out

to talk about your academic needs

about beer. Sample and compare

as well as how to disseminate this

4 IPA's from 4 different breweries.

information to peers.

A certified BJCP judge will explain

dictionary of terms one might hear from their clinician/doctor/therapist

the styles and terminology used

9 WINTER SOUPS AND STEWS WITH CHEF PAIGE VANDEGRIFT Olive Tree KC

Join chef Paige with For Love of the Table for a class featuring some of her favorite winter soups:

26 2020 GROUNDHOG RUN

Hunt Midwest SubTropolis 8300 Ne

to describe this style. Snacks pro-

Underground Dr, Kansas City

vided. For more information visit

Each year thousands of runners fill

RedCrowBrew.com

the SubTropolis at Hunt Midwest for an 100% underground 5K and

24

10K race experience. All runners are

FAN FEST 2020

dren receiving services at Ability KC.

supporting a bigger cause when they register for Groundhog Run – the chil-

Kansas City Convention Center

For more information or to register

Creamy Parsnip with Sage and

The event will have plenty of new

visit https://runsignup.com/Race/

Walnut Pesto, Celery Root and Wild

and returning activities for kids, as

MO/KansasCity/groundhogrun

Rice Chowder, Black Bean with

well as autograph sessions featuring

Butternut Squash, Spanish Chorizo,

current and former Royals and inter-

and Kale and Potato with Garlic

views on the main stage. The Club’s

Sausage. For more information or to

2019 Major League award winners

We are always accepting sub-

purchase tickets visit:

will also be recognized during the

missions for events you'd like to

(913) 338-2700

event. In addition, ARAMARK and

see included in our Calendar sec-

Office@OliveTreeKC.com

Royals Authentics will be on site

tion. Submissions are accepted

selling

via

the

latest

merchandise

and Royals memorabilia.

48

Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm

Johnson County Lifestyle | January 2020

the

Contact

Us

tab

JohnsonCountyLifestyle.com.

at

REALTY REPORT REALTY REPORT

NEIGHBORHOOD

JOHNSON COUNTY

LIST PRICE

SOLD PRICE

%SOLD/LIST

DOM

BDRMS

BATHS

SUNSET HEIGHTS VIEW

$1,999,950

$2,250,000

112%

NEW

6

4.1

INDIAN HILLS

$1,775,000

$1,700,000

95%

3

4

4.2

MISSION HILLS

$1,850,000

$1,625,000

87%

176

5

3.2

HALLBROOK

$1,699,000

$1,545,000

90%

184

5

4.1

MISSION HILLS

$1,595,000

$1,450,000

90%

58

5

5.2

THE WOODS ESTATES

$1,334,421

$1,295,000

97%

102

4

4.1

SAGAMORE HILLS

$1,299,000

$1,215,000

93%

42

4

3.2

THE HILLS OF IRONHORSE

$1,250,000

$1,200,000

96%

107

6

6.2

GLENABBEY OF LEAWOOD

$1,200,000

$1,085,000

90%

100

4

4

HALLBROOK

$1,180,000

$1,025,000

86%

152

3

4.3

Information compiled is from Heartland Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and includes properties listed and sold in the area from multiple brokers. 2019 STATISTICS from 11/1/2019 TO 11/30/2019. * DOM=Days on Market

January 2020 | Johnson County Lifestyle

49

PARTING THOUGHTS

IF YOU FIND YOURSELF ANXIOUS, TRY INCORPORATING THESE STEPS TO HELP CALM YOUR BRAIN AND BODY.

TIPS TO HELP WITH ANXIETY ARTICLE KORI HINTZ-BOHN

1. 4-7-8 BREATHING

3.

DIET

Learning? There are hundreds of values to

+ empty the lungs of air

INCLUDING PROTEIN AS PART OF YOUR

choose from. Choose a value each day and

+ breathe in quietly through the nose for

MEALS AND SNACKS. Drops in blood

set goals towards it.

4 seconds

sugar can increase anxiety.

EAT

A

WELL-BALANCED

WHEN TO SEEK HELP:

+ hold the breath for a count of 7 seconds + exhale forcefully through the mouth, purs-

4. DECREASE CAFFEINE. Caffeine has

ing the lips and making a “whoosh” sound,

many effects including increasing anxiety,

for 8 seconds

stress hormones, and hinders the calming

+ repeat the cycle up to 4 times

neurotransmitter GABA.

actual likelihood of the anticipated event.

5. MAKE ROOM FOR IT. Allow yourself to

relationships, causes distress at work,

2. GET BACK TO THE PRESENT. Anxiety

ride the wave of anxiety.

school or home.

causes you to be in your head. Try 5-4-3-2-1.

+ Identify what you’re feeling

4. You are avoiding things you used to enjoy

Notice:

+ Accept it (rather than fighting it or avoid-

due to anxiety.

+ 5 things you see

ing what you are experiencing)

5. Anxiety is interfering with the life you

+ 4 things you hear

+ Express it in a way that is honoring to

want to live.

+ 3 things you feel

you—journal, share with someone, sit with it

+ 2 things you small

with self-compassion.

1. You are feeling anxious more days than not for months.

2. Your anxiety is out of proportion to the 3. The anxiety is getting in the way of your

+ Practice this 2-3 times a day

+ 1 thing you taste 6. DISCOVER YOUR VALUES AND DO

Information provided by Kori Hintz-Bohn, MA,

This grounded technique helps get you slow

THINGS EVERY DAY IN THEM. What’s

LCPC of The Anxiety Center at Renew. For more

down and be in the moment.

important to you? Adventure? Connection?

information visit AnxietyCenterKC.com.

50

Johnson County Lifestyle | January 2020

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