Issuu

JANUARY 2020

LeawoodLifestyle.com

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

JANUARY 2020 PUBLISHER

Jane Preuss | jane.preuss@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

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

Paul Versluis | paul.versluis@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Letter from the Editor

Matthew Endersbe LAYOUT DESIGNER

Kelsey Proctor

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

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

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

Angela Broockerd, Lisa Moyer, Riley Cowing, Alan Goforth, Kayla Sprague

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.

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Janie Jones, Paul Versluis

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 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 the changing season of our lives and appreciate this 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, the impact of making pur-

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

poseful connections, and tips on staying physically fit. Whatever your goals may be, we hope this issue will inspire you to focus on wellness in the New Year. 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

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

LeawoodLifestyle.com ON THE COVER Veggie Bellie PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY MCDANIEL 6

Leawood Lifestyle | January 2020

Proverbs 3:5-6 Leawood Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Leawood 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 Leawood Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

This is the year you buy your dream home. 5000 W 135th St Leawood, KS 66224 913.266.5422 Kathrynthomas.comď€?

INSIDE THE ISSUE JANUARY 2020

FEATURES 12 Mixx it Up Local Favorite Serving Up Delicious, Healthful Bites

16 Dads Making a Difference! The Father’s Club is Significantly Influencing the Lives of Students Across Our School Community

22 The Walls Within A Journey of Discovery: A Focus on Mental Health

36 The Power of Possibility Personal Trainer Abu Shabazz

Trains Clients to Become the Best Versions of Themselves

16 12

DEPARTMENTS 6

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Hot Spot

Giving Back

20 Locally Owned 26 Inspired By 30 Healthy Lifestyle 36 Local Limelight 40 Lifestyle Calendar 41

Realty Report

42 Parting Thoughts

GOOD TIMES

The 20th Annual Holiday Luminary Walk The Holiday Luminary Walk has become the traditional kick-off of the holiday season for many families. Guests enjoyed the Gnome and Fairy Villages, visiting with Santa, the quiet walk through the winter woods, musical performances, hot cider around the campfire and a horse-drawn wagon ride.

Leawood Lifestyle | January 2020

HOT SPOT

MIXX IT UP

Leawood Lifestyle | January 2020

ARTICLE RILEY COWING PHOTOGRAPHY PAUL VERSLUIS

FROM THE MOMENT THE SUN RISES, ABOUT A DOZEN DECISIONS COME WITH IT — WHAT TO EAT FOR BREAKFAST, WHETHER TO TURN DOWN A DIFFERENT STREET ON THE WAY TO WORK BECAUSE TRAFFIC IS BAD, WHEN TO PRESS SEND ON AN EMAIL...YOU GET THE POINT. But even on the indecisive days, when a quick, healthy meal is all that’s left on the to do list, the Mixx offers an answer. The Mixx, founded by Jo Marie Scaglia, opened in the Plaza neighborhood in 2005 with a menu fit for health-conscious, mindful eaters, those ready to try something new and anyone in between. Their menu contains a multitude of different salads, sandwiches and plated entrees. If feeling more adventurous, there is an opportunity to build your own salad, sandwich, plate or quinoa bowl. The Mixx accommodates dietary restrictions, and sometimes knowing that a menu has flexibility provides massive relief. There are gluten-free, vegan or vegetarian friendly selections as well as “cheat sheets” for those adhering to programs like Whole30.

CONTINUED >

January 2020 | Leawood Lifestyle

HOT SPOT (CONTINUED)

“ W h e t h e r yo u n e e d to f i n d a q u i c k b i t e to e at o r a r e pas s i o n at e a b o u t s u p p o rti n g l o ca l r e stau r a n ts — The Mixx offers something f o r e v e ryo n e .

The Mixx is committed to cooking with quality ingredients and the proof is on each plate. The menu is grounded in their Food Theory: eat whole, real foods, source locally when possible and make everything from scratch. While each principle is seemingly simple, The Mixx supports each in actions like choosing to utilize fresh produce and unprocessed ingredients (meaning no high-fructose corn syrup, artificial flavors or something difficult to pronounce on a nutrition label). An added bonus is their desire to support and give back to the local community. Products from companies like Broadway Coffee, Tea-Biotics, Farm to Market Bread Co. and more are available in house or in recipes themselves. Guests don’t have to leave the mindfulness and local support behind upon leaving the restaurant. On the website alongside the Mixx’s Food Theory, there are suggestions on how to incorporate it into your lifestyle. The actions are straightforward (like shopping the outside aisles in the grocery store where the produce and proteins are located) but the impact is immense. A meal at the Mixx is local food you can trust and a decision that ultimately makes itself. 14

Leawood Lifestyle | January 2020

GIVING BACK

Dads Making a Difference!

THE FATHERâ€™S CLUB IS SIGNIFICANTLY INFLUENCING THE LIVES OF STUDENTS ACROSS OUR SCHOOL COMMUNITY

ARTICLE JUDY GOPPERT

Leawood 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 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

large events a year. Previously, they had Rex Hudler, a Royals com-

manner as we are ‘better together.’”

mentator and Blue Valley dad, as a guest speaker, who says, “I was

“A Blue Valley principal mentioned how as a society we are losing

fortunate to play 21 years of professional baseball, and I’ve been

our kids to suicide, drugs, depression and technology, and he was

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

excited to have dads involved. We knew it was meant to be and cast a

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

net out to eight or nine dads to have a first meeting on August 1, 2018,”

how hard it really is to be a good dad. Anybody can be a father, but

says Holdhusen, co-founder and CEO of the club. “After a four-hour

not everybody’s a good father. And it’s not just about being there

meeting, we started the first Father’s Club at Blue Valley High School.

for their own kids, but also showing up for teens in schools who

As time went on, a few dads from Blue Valley Southwest caught wind

may not have a father figure at home.”

of it and asked to meet to discuss how they could do the same thing at

Tim De Wees of Johnson County Mental Health also spoke

their school. The Father’s Club continues to grow throughout the dis-

of mental health awareness. The Father’s Club has partnered

trict as more area schools catch wind. We are purely dads just trying

with Netsmart, and 25 dads from the club have become mental

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

health first aid certified.

Each school has a chapter chair, and that chair has a steering

The idea became reality with a significant number of dads greeting

group. They talk about topics affecting kids. They plan to have two

students at the door with Chick-Fil-A chicken biscuits the first day of CONTINUED >

January 2020 | Leawood Lifestyle

GIVING BACK (CONTINUED)

Leawood Lifestyle | January 2020

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. Todd Milner is the chair for Blue Valley Southwest and will be moving to the director of development. He will oversee all the chapter chairs to help develop them. “He has put so much time and effort into this, and I want to give him props,” Holdhusen says. “Each club makes their events unique to their own school, and he steers them in the right direction.” There are 480 area dads currently registered in the database. It is not a requirement to have a child in high school to be a part of the Father’s Club. You don’t have to have kids at all. Also, they are a 501 (c) (3) club. “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. January 2020 | Leawood Lifestyle

LOCALLY OWNED

Photo Credit: Ryse Avenue

BROTHER-ANDS I S T E R AT T O R N E Y S

BRINGÂ FRESH PERSPECTIVE TO DOMESTIC LITIGATION AT NORTON HARE LLC 20

Leawood Lifestyle | January 2020

ARTICLE ALAN GOFORTH | PHOTOGRAPHY RYSE AVENUE

DIVORCE IS A DIFFICULT BUT SOMETIMES

senior, and he was a young lawyer by the time I decided I would

UNAVOIDABLE FACT OF LIFE. Those facing

plan to attend law school after completing my bachelor’s degree.

this challenge need the support of family and

At the time, I did not know what I wanted to do with my law degree,

friends and the counsel of an attorney who will

and eventually working together just sort of came naturally.”

look out for their best interests.

Ryan and Lindsay understand the impact divorce can have

“We try to keep the client’s focus on the fact

not only on the couple but also on family and friends. “We never

that the technical side of a divorce involves

pressure anyone to make the decision to pursue a divorce,” she

making ‘business’ decisions to help the family

says. “It is a very personal decision that only they can make for

move forward financially,” says attorney Lindsay

themselves and for their family.” After that decision is made, how-

Hare, a partner in Norton Hare LLC in Overland

ever, clients need the best legal advice available.

Park. “We are here to work with the client on

“Our first obligation is to our clients and their best interests,”

weighing those financial decisions, while also

Lindsay says. “That being said, having done this for so many

giving our clients the space that they need to work through the

years, we can see the big picture from the outside and try to help

very raw and real emotions that come with this side of the law.”

our clients see the impact their decisions may or may not have on

Hare is highly respected for her expertise in the area of domes-

tic litigation, as well as criminal defense, DUI, personal injury and general litigation. She has been named to Kansas and Missouri Super Lawyers for three consecutive years. Her legal partner also has an impressive resume—and just happens to be her brother. Attorney Ryan Hare represents clients in the areas of divorce, child custody, child support and other domestic relations issues. He has been selected as a Super Lawyer every year since 2008 and has repeatedly been recognized as one of the top 100 trial lawyers by the American Trial Lawyers Association.

themselves and their family in the long term.” Their

family

relationship

adds

synergy

their

professional partnership. “It does not work for everyone, but if you decide to take the leap, keep an open mind and an open line of communication with each other,” she says. “Recognize and value the other’s strengths and how they balance your own weaknesses.” Any number of firms can provide good legal counsel. In law as in families, relationships are all-important. “It is absolutely essential to feel connected and completely

How did two siblings wind up earning law degrees from the

trusting of your chosen counsel in a divorce or family law matter,”

University of Kansas and eventually going into practice together?

Lindsay says. “While at the heart of it a divorce is the ‘business’ of

“Our parents encouraged us to seek out graduate degrees

dividing the finances, it is also an incredibly personal experience

after completing undergrad,” Lindsay said. “Ryan is nine years my

for each and every person going through it.” January 2020 | Leawood Lifestyle

Leawood Lifestyle | January 2020

BEHIND THE WALL S

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 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.

ARTICLE KAYLA SPRAGUE PHOTOGRAPHY ROBYN RENAE PHOTOGRAPHY

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

LAST YEAR, I REALLY WANTED TO DIE. I loved

a moment of weakness took from them.

God. I loved my family. But I was convinced everyone

This is why I have to share my story.

would be better off without me. “I’m the problem.

More of us need to make it. And we need to know

There’s something wrong with me.” Or so the voices

we are not alone in the fight for our lives. Maybe, even

in my head would scream on repeat like police sirens

as you read this, someone you love can’t shake the

until I pulled over long enough to believe them.

heaviness. Or maybe things feel incredibly dark for

In May 2018, I received a diploma. Most consider

you right now. I am so sorry.

this milestone an accomplishment, but I see it (and

Physical, emotional, and mental pain are real and

the fact that I am still breathing today) as a miracle.

connected. Often, we only validate what we can see

Before graduation, I intermittently lost the ability

on the outside. But there is so much more going on

to use the right side of my body. I lost my freedom

behind the carefully curated posts and personalities

and independence, and eventually I lost something

we present. Sometimes it’s the people we would

even more valuable—hope.

least expect who are facing the things we could never

Friends transcribed papers, tied my shoes, and took

imagine. No matter what we see on the outside, it’s

me to and from school. Holding my hand while anxiety

only part of the story. No matter what you feel on the

gripped the night and at scary doctor appointments,

inside, that’s only part of the story too.

they showed me what being “with” is all about. We tried to laugh through the pain, and they pushed me

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

toward my dreams, even at times, in a wheelchair. That summer brought the darkest spiral my mind

CONTINUED >

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. January 2020 | Leawood Lifestyle

BEHIND THE WALL S (CONTINUED)

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. 24

Leawood Lifestyle | January 2020

Pr e s e r v i n g y o u r a s s e t s , p r o t e c t i n g y o u r f u tu r e

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January 2020 | Leawood Lifestyle

INSPIRED BY

H e a lt h ca r e Like a Boss WHAT IF THE SAME HEALTH CARE SYSTEM DEVELOPED FOR ATHLETES WAS OFFERED TO CORPORATE EXECUTIVES AND LEADERSHIP TEAMS—THE ATHLETES OF THE BUSINESS WORLD? This is the premise behind the groundbreaking, KC-based Elite Physicals. Co-founded two years ago by Dr. Neal Erickson, team physician for Sporting KC, Elite Physicals has created a new standard for what an executive physical should be. Instead of an annual physical leading to a labyrinth of specialists, appointments, costs and confusion, Elite Physicals offers an entire year of physician concierge service that brings a multi-disciplinary team of 30 specialists to you. You don’t get lost in the paperwork, and by YOU, they mean all of you—physical, mental, and emotional you. “Health care shouldn’t be confusing or time-consuming,” says Lindsey Weathers, Co-founder and Managing Partner. “At Elite, the patient is at the center, and providers come to the patient.” Weathers says that Dr. Erickson, who’s been with Sporting KC since its inception 25 years ago, developed a comprehensive physical for the players with a patient-centric approach that is now being offered to the metro’s business executives. With the state-of-the-art training facilities at the Pinnacle National Development Center, along with partner facilities at St. Joseph Medical Center for small-tier and wellness programs, Elite Physicals employs leading-edge technology, advanced testing and a team

WORLD-CLASS ELITE PHYSICALS HELPS EXECUTIVES HELP THEIR TEAMS

approach with 30+ providers on contract. “These are the best providers in KC with their own highly successful practices,” Weathers says. “They collaborate using the figurative round table with the patient in the middle. The providers gather around and deduce what’s best for the patient. The exercise physiologist is talking with the orthopedic surgeon talking with the radiologist who’s 26

Leawood Lifestyle | January 2020

ARTICLE LISA MOYER PHOTOGRAPHY TOM BARNHART

gathering information from the nutritionist who’s overlooking labs

Weathers, who managed Dr. Erickson’s practice and has an HR/

and scheduling prescreening, and it’s all managed by Dr. Erickson.

Leadership background, says that her research revealed a need to be

It’s what true primary care providers should be—liaisons of medicine.”

proactive in managing patient care. With Elite’s third partner, Chief

Elite Physicals is regarded as the most in-depth health and wellness

Strategy Officer, Emad Aboul-Hosn, the team believes it’s positioned

program in the nation. With detailed comparison charts to clinics such

to be a pioneer and representative of what healthcare should look like.

as Mayo, Duke and Cleveland, Elite Physicals outperforms by a landslide.

“Far too much responsibility is put on patients’ shoulders to

“We simply blow our competitors out of the water,” Weathers says.

navigate through an industry they aren’t keen on,” Weathers

“I’m so proud of how it’s set apart from others.”

says. “Not only should healthcare providers deliver the news and CONTINUED >

January 2020 | Leawood Lifestyle

INSPIRED BY (CONTINUED)

delegate next steps, but proper patient care requires a guide to

pounds by taking charge of her healthcare in the same way she

walk them through this process.”

has succeeded in other areas of her life, such as business and

Weathers says that almost without fail, when a health concern

coaching, particularly coaching veterans.

is identified by the team, it would not have shown up in a typical

“Veterans are a passion for us, and we hope to work with

insurance-covered exam. (A positive side effect of Elite’s innovative

the VA for true change in healthcare. We partner with After

approach is to incite insurance companies to cover more preventa-

Action Network and have a Buy-One-Vet-One program where

tive costs because early detection of diseases and lifestyle habits

for a small fee increase, executives can support a local veteran

have become more relevant to long-term health.)

through the program.”

“Our exams are offered to everyone, but not everyone can afford that out-of-pocket, so we offer different tiers and can spread the cost over several years,” Weathers says. “However, most executives do like to com-

For more info, contact: www.elitephysicals.com

plete as many tests as possible within the first year. They understand the benefits of the tests for microbiome, DNA, pharmacogenetic, etc.” Weathers knows firsthand what it’s like to take back her health with the help of Elite. In the past 2½ years, she has lost 240 28

Leawood Lifestyle | January 2020

“There’s no better way for business owners and top executives to reward their top employees than with an Elite physical.” — Frank Boal, Missouri Sports Hall of Fame broadcaster

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January 2020 | Leawood Lifestyle

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

Veggie Bellie INSTA-HEALTHY

Photo Credit Anna Petrow

ARTICLE AMY MCDANIEL

Leawood Lifestyle | January 2020

AMY IS A CULINARY AND WELLNESS BRAND STRATEGIST,

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

WRITER, AND RECIPE DEVELOPER. After studying and working

yourself and to your body in a way that allows them both to thrive.

in corporate marketing, Amy quickly realized that she wanted to

The cool part? The things that give to your body naturally give to your

create a life around her forever love — food. By day, she works with

mind, your hormones, your earth, your relationships, and so on — it’s

local Kansas City restaurants and wellness boutiques on marketing,

all beautifully interconnected in that way.

brand, and social media strategy.

Eat your greens, cook at home, choose local produce and

By night, Amy shares her love of wellness through her various

quality meats, don’t be scared of healthy fats — but also support

online platforms — always advocating for hormonal, mental, and

local farmers, move in a way that makes your body and mind feel

environmental health; always staying authentic; and always leaving

good, prioritize times of mindfulness and stillness, fuel your body

room for her twenty-something lifestyle sans the guilt.

in a way that is sustainable for both you and the planet, practice

“My biggest advice is to work in partnership with your body.

gratitude and empathy, give yourself grace when you lose routine,

Listen to it, support it, give to it, forgive it — and I promise it’ll give

don’t try to make changes overnight, ditch the guilt, and always

back. Repeat after me: I love myself as the most important and

always be kind to yourself.”

committed partner I will ever have.

S i m p l e R o as t e d Sa l m o n w i t h Dill Coconut Cream INGREDIENTS: + 2 6oz filets of wild caught salmon + 1 tbsp avocado oil + 1 tbsp coconut aminos + Zest and juice from one lemon + 1 tbsp stone ground mustard + 1 4oz container coconut yogurt, unsweetened + 2 tbsp fresh dill, minced + 2 tbsp capers, drained and minced + Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste DIRECTIONS: 1. Marinate the salmon in the lemon juice, coconut aminos, and stone ground mustard for up to two hours. 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 sautéed veggies, brown or cauliflower rice, or fresh greens. Enjoy!

CONTINUED >

January 2020 | Leawood Lifestyle

HE ALTH Y LIFEST Y LE (CONTINUED)

Leawood Lifestyle | January 2020

S p i cy T h a i C o c o n u t C u r ry INGREDIENTS + 1 head broccoli, cut into florets + 1 medium onion, sliced + 1 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise, then sliced into crescents + 1 red pepper, cored, seeded, and cut into slices + 2 cups carrots, sliced + 2 cups mushrooms, quartered + 1 large boneless, skinless, pasture raised chicken breast, cut into cubes (omit to make vegan) + 2 cans coconut cream + 1 container curry paste or 3 tablespoons dried curry powder + 2-4 cups bone broth, chicken stock, or vegetable stock + 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced + 1 tbsp fresh garlic, minced + 4 limes, 2 juiced and 2 quartered + 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped + 2-4 tbsp avocado, olive, or coconut oil + Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste DIRECTIONS: 1. Season the chicken with ¼ of the curry powder/paste, salt, and freshly ground pepper. Sear on medium heat in 1 tbsp desired oil. Once browned on each side, remove from pan, and set aside. 2. Add 1 tbsp oil and sauté the onion on medium heat until softened and translucent, roughly 2-3 minutes 3. Add the garlic, ginger, broccoli, zucchini, red pepper, carrots, and mushrooms. Sauté on medium heat for 5-7 minutes. 4. Add the chicken back in, along with the coconut cream, remaining curry powder/paste, and broth. 5. Bring to boil, reduce to low heat, and simmer for 10-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender. 6. Remove from heat and finish with lime juice. Serve with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or add extra broth to create a healing soup. Garnish with sliced avocado, cilantro, and lime wedges. @VEGGIEBELLIE veggie-bellie.com

January 2020 | Leawood Lifestyle

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January 2020 | Leawood Lifestyle

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

PERSONAL TRAINER ABU SHABAZZ TRAINS CLIENTS TO BECOME THE BEST VERSIONS OF THEMSELVESÂ

the power of possibility ARTICLE BETHANY DROBECK | PHOTOGRAPHY PAUL VERSLUIS

Leawood Lifestyle | January 2020

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. CONTINUED >

January 2020 | Leawood Lifestyle

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

Teaching others to see the “possibility of things” is one

WEIGHT LOSS TIPS:

of the reasons he wanted to become a personal trainer.

+ Consistency is the key

Abu got his start by joining a gym and training himself

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

in hopes that others would see his progress and become

+ You have to stick with it

inspired. It worked, and the manager approached him to

+ Everything has a season

begin working as a trainer. He says another reason he

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

wanted to become a trainer is to make a difference and

craving that you think you have.

show people that “Our goals are all dependent on how we view things. Getting fit holds the same concept.”

HEALTHY EATING

After training others all day long, Abu picks his son

+ Find a healthy food plan that works for your lifestyle

and daughter up from school and daycare, takes college

because if you are not able to stick to it, then it definitely

courses two days a week, and several times a week trains

will not work.

himself in hour-long sessions.

+ Learn what kind of eater you are. Are you a grazer, an

His drive to help others see what is possible for

emotional eater, a stress eater, or an I-forget-to-eat person?

themselves keeps him going. He says, “If you look at a

- Figure this out, then make the necessary adjustments to

person as they are, they only become worse, but if you

construct a healthy food plan that fits your life.

look at them as what they could be, they will become

- And remember—you don’t have to be good at it to get

what they should be.”

started, but you do have to get started to be good at it!

Leawood Lifestyle | January 2020

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2/8/18 6:54 PM

JANUARY

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

entertainment, while raising money for

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

guest along with Christa Dubill, who

childhood cancer research. KC Royals outfielder, Alex Gordon is our special will emcee the evening. For information

25 PRINCESS SKATE

The Ice at Park Place

Johnson County Library - Leawood

about sponsorship opportunities, tickets,

Dress like your favorite Little Princess

Pioneer 4700 Town Center Dr, Leawood

or donations, contact Susan Blowey at

or Prince and enjoy an afternoon of

This talk will include a crash course

Susan.Blowey@AlexsLemonade.org.

skating. Each child will receive a free

dictionary of terms one might hear from their clinician/doctor/therapist when discussing ADHD and what these terms mean. Learn how you can use these terms and concepts to talk about your academic needs as well as how to disseminate this information to peers.

crown (while supplies last).

FAN FEST 2020

Kansas City Convention Center

The event will have plenty of new and

CELEBRATE I-LAN’S LUNAR NEW YEAR

15400 Mission Road, Leawood, KS 66224

returning activities for kids, as well as

Please join us for an evening ushering in

autograph sessions featuring current

the “Year of the Rat” with Mayor Peggy

and former Royals and interviews on

Dunn, the Leawood City Council, and

2020 LEMON MIXER

the main stage. The Club’s 2019 Major

the I-Lan sister city committee.

League award winners will also be rec-

Vista 154 at Ironhorse Golf Club

1901 Cherry St, Kansas City, Mo

ognized during the event. In addition,

$35 per person. Cash bar. Limited seating

The 2020 Lemon Mixer, in its' 5th year,

ARAMARK and Royals Authentics will

For

information,

is a great place to enjoy wonderful

be on site selling the latest merchan-

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email I-Lan@leawood.org.

contact

913-663-9325

Monthly Financial Tip New Year's resolutions should include a complete financial review of your wills and trusts, insurance, and investments in your retirement plan to ensure you leave a legacy to your children and grandchildren. Do you have your yearly appointment set up with your financial advisor to review your financial plan?

Bill Eckert, CAP®

Financial Advisor President & CEO Philanthropic Wealth Management, Estate Planning (913) 322-9177 www.sfpkc.us beckert@sfpkc.us

Bill Eckert is a registered representative and investment advisor representative of Securian Financial Services, Inc. Securities and investment services are offered through Securian Financial Services, Inc. Member of FINRA/SIPC. SFP is independently owned and operated. 4000 West 114th Street, Suite 180, Leawood, KS 66211 2839681 DOFU 122019 40

Leawood Lifestyle | January 2020

REALTY REPORT REALTY REPORT

NEIGHBORHOOD

LIST PRICE

L E AWO OD

SOLD PRICE %SOLD/LIST

DOM

BDRMS

BATHS

HALLBROOK

$1,399,000

$1,336,000

95%

5.1

HAZELWOOD

$1,399,000

$1,215,000

86%

124

4.1

THE HILLS OF IRON HORSE

$1,197,000

$1,140,000

95%

186

6.1

LEAWOOD

$1,150,000

$1,050,000

91%

4.1

LEAWOOD

$1,100,000

$1,050,000

95%

4.1

WATERFORD

$739,000

$722,000

97%

3.3

LONGWOOD FOREST

$725,000

$695,000

95%

4.1

WORTHINGTON

$675,000

$686,000

101%

3.2

LEAWOOD ESTATES

$650,000

$630,000

96%

ESTATES OF IRON HORSE

$635,000

$610,000

96%

5.1

Information compiled is from Heartland Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and includes properties listed and sold in the area from multiple brokers. 2019 STATISTICS from 10/1/2019 TO 10/31/2019. * DOM=Days on Market

January 2020 | Leawood Lifestyle

PARTING THOUGHTS

WO R KO U T S F O R YO U R MOODS

ARTICLE NICOLETTE MARTIN NEW YEAR, NEW US. We don’t mean to be cliché, but is there really any better time for working on yourself than when Jan. 1 rolls around—whether you’re focused on your physical health or your mental health? It sure seems like the perfect time, but there will also be days when you’re just not quite feeling it. The holidays are over, the days are shorter and, let’s face it, there’s not really a ton to look forward to until spring sprouts. But, whatever your mood is this time of year, there’s still an activity you can do that’s worthwhile—and will give

NEED A PICK-ME-UP, BUT DON’T QUITE

you a boost! Here’s how to choose the right one.

HAVE THE ENERGY? THESE ACTIVITIES WILL GET YOU MOVING AND OUT OF YOUR POST-HOLIDAY FUNK

by increasing body awareness, reducing muscle tension, relieving stress and sharpening attention + concentration.

YO G A

There’s a reason people who are active runners describe something called a “runner’s high.” Studies show that aerobic exercises release mood-boosting endorphins.

RUNNING

TRY THIS

Relax one body part at a time, one muscle at a time + one thought at a time through a daily Savasana practice.

If you want to get into running but aren’t sure where to start, check out a couch-to-5K program to ease into it.

Leawood Lifestyle | January 2020

FEELING STRESSED

can help to ease anxiety

FEELING DOWN

FEELING ANXIOUS 42

A regular yoga practice

When your head is full of thoughts, it can get overwhelming. HighIntensity Interval Training (HIIT) provides a break from that with short bursts of 100% focus followed by rest.

HIIT

TRY THIS If you’re more into audio-based motivation, check out Aaptiv with thousands of audioguided programs.

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