Westport , CT January 2021

JA N UA RY 2 02 1

HERE'S TO A HEALTHY 2021!

W E LLN E S S FO R T H E LOVE O F DAN C E FI T N ES S T O G O FOOD + DRINK WH O G ROWS YO U R FO O D?

WHEN LOCAL KNOWLEDGE MEETS BUSINESS EXPERIENCE, YOU WIN.

Visit us today for all of your banking and lending needs.

Bank smart. Bank local. Bank well.

100 Post Road East, Westport CT (203) 652-2710

mybankwell.com Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender

(credits: yoga teacher Suzanne Knesich photographed by Heidi Curran of Westport)

a new ancient health model for a new you Sugi Acupressure is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine and bolstered by modern neuroscience, positive psychology and functional medicine.

O P T I M A L H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S Helps elevate mood, relieve stress and strengthen the mind-body connection.

Helps increase mobility and gain relief from pain and chronic conditions.

T H I S W I N T E R , R E V I V E A N D N U R T U R E YO U R B O DY, MIND AND SPIRIT WITH COVID-SAFE SUGI Acupressure treatments by Dr. Injae Choe.

Book private appointments (house calls available) at sugiacupressure.com Serving NYC, Westport, Weston and surrounding towns.

I N JA E CH O E PHD, LMT 20+ Years Experience | ONLINE BOOKING & PACK AGES: sugiacupressure.com

Text 646.823.5386 | injae.choe@gmail.com |

@sugiacupressure

Make your happy place your home.

Where Compassion Meets Medicine.

FOR WOMEN, BY WOMEN. PHYSICIANS YOU CAN TRUST

CALL TO SCHEDULE YOUR WELLNESS VISIT TODAY

SOUTHERN CONNECTICUT

Women’s Health Care A S S O C I AT E S gynecology, minimally invasive surgery, sex therapy, menopause

203.783.0543

WWW.SCWHCA.COM

Dr. Mary Murray

Dr. Miriam Sivkin

Dr. Erika Schaeffer

MD., FACOG, OB-GYN

MD., FACOG, OB-GYN

MD., FACOG, OB-GYN

OFFICES: 247 BROAD STREET, MILFORD, CT 06460 32 IMPERIAL AVE., WESTPORT, CT 06880 @/southernconnecticutwomen

f

AWARD WINNING DESIGN 175 Post Road W, Westport, CT 06880 | 203.454.0032 | karenberkemeyerhome.com

LIFESTYLE LETTER

JANUARY 2021 PUBLISHER

Marisa MacLean | marisa.maclean@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Finally!

WELL, FOLKS, WE CAN FINALLY SAY GOOD RIDDANCE TO 2020. This past year felt like it went by in a blur and also like it would never end. But one thing is certain—we wouldn’t have survived the past year without the support of our incredible community. That’s you!

This January, we want to take some time to focus on our health, your health, and Westport’s health. We all thrive when we work together and hold each

Robin Moyer Chung | robin.chung@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Miranda Read L AYO UT DESIGNER

Emily Lisenbee CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jen Berniker, Anne Burmeister, Ashley Skatoff, John C. Maxwell CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Maya Porrino, Mindy Briar, Ashley Skatoff, Anne Burmeister

other accountable.

Make a point to check on your friends more often this month. Maybe instead of a backyard fire pit happy hour you offer to safely meet up for a workout class.

Maybe you ask for your family’s support as you begin the search for a therapist for the first time.

Whatever the next step for you is, we want to be a part of it. Share your January goals with us on social media and check out some of the workout routines and recipes we’ve included in this month’s issue to get you started.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

Marisa MacLean, Publisher

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA | SOUTH CAROLINA TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

ON THE COVER Enrique Alarcon, small business owner of The Dance Collective.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINDY BRIAR 8

Westport Lifestyle | January 2021

CityLifestyle.com/Westport

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

Year NEW You

N EW

T H E N ATU R AL- LOOK I N G WAY TO A N EW FAC E , IN LE S S T H AN O N E H O U R .

• I M ME D I ATE RE S U LTS • MI N I M AL LY INVAS IVE • MI N I M AL D OWN TIM E

A DVA NCE D SUSPEN SIO N TECHNOLOGY LIF TS UNDER LYIN G FACIAL TI SSUE

BEFOR E

AF TER

helping our patients look and feel their best CE LE B R ATI N G O U R 7 T H YE A R O F

Giving you the choices you deserve.

79 South Benson Road Fairfield, CT 06824

203.292.5559 DrChristineGould.com

INSIDE THE ISSUE JANUARY 2021

FEATURES 18 Who Grows Your Food?

Local Photographers Introduce Our Local Farms

28 For the Love of Dance The Dance Collective's Collective Spirit

34 Fitness You Know, To Go How Local Exercise Studios Muscle Through Trying Times.

18 34

52 Healthy Divorce in Unhealthy Times Expert Advice and Insight

28

52

DEPARTMENTS 8

Lifestyle Letter

12

Good Times

14

Around Town

18

Local Limelight

24 Culinary Creations 40 Open House 46 Inspired By 52 Legal Compass 58 Parting Thoughts

GOOD TIMES 1.

2.

3.

MoCA Guiness World Record Event At an event at MoCA led by local artist Trace Burroughs, nearly 40 families attempted a Guinness World Record for the largest abstract painting (the previous record holder was Jackson Pollock)! The event also featured a concert by Hopalong Andrew, New York's favorite singing cowboy.

1. Final artwork! | 2. Determined kids. | 3. Singing Cowboy serenaded guests.

1.

2.

3.

Pure Barre x The Classic Chic Local Influencer and designer, Zac Mathias of the Classic Chic, hosts a blogger class to showcase a glimpse into Zac’s everyday life.

Pure Barre is Zac’s favorite boutique fitness workout and he wanted to curate an event to highlight local love. The group finished the day at new local eatery, Manna toast. PHOTOGRAPHY SYDNEY SHEEHAN

4.

5.

6.

1. Zac Mathias | 2. Zac with Jessica Gisondi and Pure Barre owner Laura Sabia with Harvey. | 3. Heidi Castellani | 4. Nina B. Clarke | 5. The entire crew! | 6. Planks... ugh.

12

Westport Lifestyle | January 2021

D R . M A S H A KO G A N & D R . V I R G I N I A R O M A N O

We are ready to say GOODBYE to 2020 and HELLO to 2021!

203.227.8700 • DENTALCENTERWESTPORT.COM • CARE@DENTALCENTERWESTPORT.COM • 175 POST RD W, WESTPORT

invisalign® | B OTOX ® | iTero® | ZO O M Whitening® | KöR Whitening® | P i c a s s o Laser®

AROUND TOWN part of the natural world illuminates our own human existence. The author's website includes the sound of a snail eating a carrot!

Wed, January 27 @ 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm WestportLibrary.org

TUESDAY TREASURE: POSTCARDS, WESTPORT MUSEUM FOR HISTORY AND CULTURE January 26, 2021 6:00 pm - 6:30 pm Who hasn’t bought a souvenir postcard to send to a relative or hold onto as a keepsake? See some of the cards crafted for Westport through

96% STARDUST

history, including iconic

buildings, famous

happenings and disasters.

In an iconic space at the corner of Main and

Tuesday Treasures is a Westport Museum pro-

Post, 96% STARDUST, a collaborative new solo

gramming series showcasing objects from the col-

show between artist Brendan Murphy and Jennifer

lection not normally on public view. See and hear

Haviland of Haviland Reed, explores art’s potential

the stories behind some of the most unique, myste-

to transmit positive energy and the effect it has

rious and impactful artifacts in our community.

on society as a whole – something needed more now than ever. Murphy, one of the fastest rising

Visit our Facebook page to join this live event!

WestportHistory.org

stars on the contemporary art scene today, has a global clientele. This is Murphy's premier show in Westport. Private gallery appointments are strongly recommended. Inquiries can be made at haviland@havilandreed.com

MOCA'S HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT ART EXHIBIT - SUBMISSIONS AND EXHIBIT (Picture by Alexander Dempster) MoCA Westport invites all high school students

ENVIRONMENTAL BOOK DISCUSSION: THE SOUND OF A WILD SNAIL EATING

14

to submit works of art for a new exhibition, Hindsight is 2020, on view January 23 - March 6, 2021.

Hindsight is 2020 will feature submissions created

Elisabeth Tova Bailey tells the inspiring and

during 2020, illustrating a diverse portrait of what

intimate story of her year-long encounter with

young people have been experiencing and observ-

a Neohelix albolabris—a common forest snail—

ing during these challenging and unique times.

and becomes an astute and amused observer. The

All high school students may submit one work,

Sound of a Wild Snail Eating is a remarkable journey

and all works will be accepted. Submissions are

of survival and resilience, showing us how a small

due Friday, January 8, 2021. MoCAWestport.org.

Westport Lifestyle | January 2021

429 Post Road East, Westport 4 2 4 . 2 93 .76 6 3 W W W. AW E S O M E TOYS .C O M

Westport’s Local Toy Store WITH A HUGE SELECTION

SHOP ONLINE

SHOP BY PHONE OR FACETIME

WE OFFER CURBSIDE PICK UP FOR ANY SIZE PURCHASE OR FREE LOCAL DELIVERY WITH A $25 MINIMUM PURCHASE.

C O M E P L AY W I T H U S !

We have a friendly knowledgeable staff to help you with all your gift buying needs.

We open early and close late 7 days a week for your shopping convenience.

Free weekly events. Awesome cafe for coffee and free Wifi while your kids play!

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

ch. g wat

pin x kee the o Fred

na ked o es pic orning. in r a t Nec ay m Sund nd ens a chick ctors . d e is n tra re-ra Pastu heir chicke t

e sting Harve

me . dama

g

in Bring

from in kale

the fie

lds .

rd in w cha ainbo

R

s. g hen

glin Wran

s. us pig

Curio

use .

ho green in the s n e ro gre

Mic

18

Westport Lifestyle | January 2021

the fie

ld.

ARTICLE ANNE BURMEISTER AND ASHLEY SKATOFF PHOTOGRAPHY ASHLEY SKATOFF, ANNE BURMEISTER

Washing greens for market.

s w o r

G ? o d h o o W ur F Yo

LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHERS INTRODUCE OUR LOCAL FARMS

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH LORI COCHRAN-DOUGALL, DIRECTOR OF WESTPORT FARMERS’ MARKET, WE ARE PHOTOGRAPHING LOCAL FARMERS AND FARMS TO INTRODUCE THEM TO OUR COMMUNITY. Until very recently in human history it would have been easy to answer the question, “Who grows my food?” Land and sea have always been tightly tied to communities and the daily ritual of eating. Farm-to-table was built into the community; it wasn’t a movement! Only the last handful of decades have severed that natural bond between food and community so severely that we no longer personally know who grows what we eat. At one point, our communities could at least rely on their local grocer to know the farmers and providers, but even this is no longer true. There are many miles, businesses, carriers, processors between a farmer and a consumer.

This detachment is tough on both farmers and consumers. Many small-, midsize, and even large-scale farms. have disappeared in these last decades, victims to demand for greater efficiencies and cheaper inputs. The cost of larger operations and the challenges associated CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Westport

19

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED) with getting into mainstream stores has squeezed them out of the convenient places many families shop. The difficulty accessing farms and farmers more directly has also adversely affected us as consumers; in our lifetime we have seen rising health epidemics, chronic disease, allergies, and behavioral issues related to nutrition. Environmentally, we’ve seen the decline of biodiversity, increased pollution and chemicals in our waterways, and the degradation of our natural resources.

The interrelationship of earth, food, and community is a necessary component to a healthy human experience. Local food movements are working hard to rebuild the links between us and the food we eat. We are incredibly lucky that small- to medium-sized farms still exist around us in Connecticut. They work hard to survive in a system that, largely speaking, does not support them. Small farms are subject to the same local and global price pressures as larger agricultural enterprises built and scaled for efficiencies. Fortunately, evidence has shown if we know our farmers we are more likely to support them and keep them thriving. It also means we are choosing healthier food, a stronger community, and a more resilient earth.

Local food is fresher and harvested at its peak ripeness - often making it more nutrient dense. Local food tastes better and can also be safer.

e she

ing th

Shear

ep .

ip h s n o i at l e r r e nt The i od, o f , h t of ear munity is ent om on c p d m n o a yc r a s s e a nec lthy ea e. to a h experienc n huma 20

Westport Lifestyle | January 2021

ce .

g lettu

Rinsin

It goes through fewer hands before it reaches us with fewer chances of contamination. It is more reliable. When the national and international food supply chains are disrupted, be it pandemic or trade dispute, we can still go to our local farm stand.

When you know who grows your food, you have access to information. You can find out how your food was grown. How was the chicken raised? What methods did they use to control pests? What do they do to restore the land and protect the waterways? Many local farmers are proactive about stewarding their land and caring for their animals in restorative ecologically friendly ways and they are forthright about sharing that information locally as models to promote the practices and to ensure our trust.

With great respect, we introduce you to a few farms and individuals we have met so far. They are a diverse group and we are delighted to know them. They are scientists, ecologists, and environmentalists. They are leaders in their professions. They are CEOs, CFOs, COOs. They are problem-solvers. They are creatives, care-takers, collaborators, educators, students, entrepreneurs. They span generations. Whether they were born here, or arrived here, Connecticut is their home.

To know who grows your food is to restore what once was, and should be again, a meaningful community between farmers and the people at our tables.

We look forward to formally launching #WhoGrowsYourFood in Spring 2021. Until then, stay healthy and shop local!

FARMS: + Copps Island Oysters, Norm Bloom and Son, Norwalk + Dirt Road Farm, Weston + Fort Hill Farm, New Milford + Gilbertie’s Organics, Easton + Lost Ruby Farm, Norfolk + Ox Hollow Farm, Woodbury + Riverbank Farm, Roxbury + Sankow’s Beaver Brook Farm, Lyme + Sport Hill Farm, Easton + The Hickories, Ridgefield + Wells Hill Farm, Weston + Woodland Farm, South Glastonbury CityLifestyle.com/Westport

21

BRODER ORL AND MURR AY & DEMATTIE LLC MATRIMONIAL AND FAMILY LAW

Distinguished • Experienced • Attentive Divorce Litigation, Mediation, and Arbitration Alimony and Spousal Support Custody, Parenting Plans, Child Support, and Relocation Property Division including Complex and Alternative Assets Valuation Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements Preserving Generational Wealth Post-Judgment Modification and Enforcement Appeals

Eric Broder • Carole Topol Orland • Sarah Murray • Christopher DeMattie Jaime Dursht • Nicole DiGiose • Robert Vossler 55 GREENS FARMS ROAD, WESTPORT, CT 06880 | 115 EAST PUTNAM AVENUE, GREENWICH, CT 06830

203-222-4949 www.ctfamilylaw.com

22

Westport Lifestyle | January 2021

ZUCCHINI NOODLE PAD THAI: VEGETARIAN, HEALTHY AND DELICIOUS

CULINARY CREATIONS

"ZOODLES" OF FUN INGREDIENTS SAUCE: + 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos + 1 1/2 tablespoons rice vinegar + 2 tablespoons fish sauce + 1 tablespoon honey + 1-3 teaspoons Sriracha, or chili garlic sauce FOR THE VEGETARIAN PAD THAI ZOODLES: + 2 medium zucchini + 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil + 2 cloves garlic + 2 large eggs + 1 cup bean sprouts + 1 cup grated carrots + 3 small green onions, finely chopped + 1/4 cup finely chopped peanuts + 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro + Lime wedges for serving + Additional hot sauce for serving + 1/2 cup shelled edamame

DIRECTIONS 01 Stir together the sauce ingredients: fish sauce, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, and 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce. If you prefer a sweeter pad Thai, add additional honey. For spicier, add additional chili paste.

02 With a spiralizer, cut the zucchini into zoodles. If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can cut the zucchini into ribbons using a vegetable peeler Set aside.

03 Heat 1 tsp of oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium high. Add the garlic, then crack the eggs directly into the skillet. Break apart the yolk with the spatula and let cook for 30 seconds, until just beginning to set. Add the noodles and sauce and stir to coat. Next, add the bean sprouts, carrots, edamame, and chopped green onions and let cook until the bean sprouts are crisp-tender, about 1 minute. Sprinkle on the peanuts and cilantro. Serve immediately with lime wedges and additional hot sauce to taste.

24

Westport Lifestyle | January 2021

CityLifestyle.com/Westport

25

Serving the changing legal needs of individuals and business clients in Fairfield County since 1919

Stephen M. Cowherd

Nancy A. D. Hancock

Jill D. Bicks

David B. Bussolotta

Geoffrey F. Fay

Livia DeFilippis Barndollar

Adam J. Cohen

Joshua S. Cole

Lauren C. Davies

Adam S. Mocciolo

Amy E. Murray

Karen P. Wackerman

A full service law firm handling Family Law, Trusts and Estates, Real Estate, Health Care, Mediation and Business Transactions 253 Post Road West • Westport, CT 06880-8180 • 203.254.5000

pullcom.com

26

Westport Lifestyle | January 2021

@pullmancomley

W H E N O N L Y T H E B E S T W I L L DO.

NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS: ✔ Eliminate unflattering bulges with CoolSculpting ✔ Fix saggy neck and jowls in office with FaceTite ✔ Get the 15 month fillers from Revance ✔ Repair Sun-damaged Skin with BBL and Halo ✔ Look refreshed for 2021 ✔ Have my eyes done in the office with local anesthesia ✔ Eliminate fat and tighten loose skin in office with BodyTite

TIRED OF C OV I D A N D R E A D Y TO M OV E O N F O R T H E H O L I D AY S ?

Call us about the new RHA™ Collection from Revance — the 15 month wrinkle filler

208 Post Road West Westport, CT | (203) 454-0044 | plasticsurgeryct.com

28

ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG | PHOTOGRAPHY MINDY BRIAR

THE DANCE COLLECTIVE'S COLLECTIVE SPIRIT

For the Love of Dance

Traditional Peruvian dance.

Westport Lifestyle | January 2021

Passé

“THE SPACE IS GORGEOUS, BEAUTIFUL LIGHT, CLEAN AND BRIGHT. ENRIQUE CREATES A GO-TO PLACE FOR FEELING GOOD.” I FIRST NOTICED THE DANCE COLLECTIVE (TDC) ON A COLD

of Westport, of busy roads and irritated drivers, that I became

WINTER EVENING DURING RUSH HOUR WHILE I WAITED…

entranced. It was pure joy, energy, and light.

PATIENTLY… FOR THE LIGHT ON POST ROAD AND SYLVAN TO

The Dance Collective (TDC) was started in 2008 by Enrique

BLINK GREEN. On the 2nd floor of the heavy building across the

Alarcon and his dance partner, Amanda Parton. For nine years

street were two illuminated plate glass windows revealing about 30

they’ve been attracting students, male and female, from five to 90

dancers within, mostly female. It was a class or a rehearsal, I couldn’t

years old. Its mission is simple and fabulous: create a community of

tell. But it was such a departure from the feeling on the mean streets

people who love to dance and wish to make it part of their lifestyle.

CONTINUED >

Annual recital.

CityLifestyle.com/Westport

29

FOR THE LOVE OF DANCE (CONTINUED)

“AS LONG AS DANCE IS ALWAYS A PART OF THEIR LIVES, MY JOB IS DONE.”

Zeus and Enrique.

Safe dancing during COVID.

30

Westport Lifestyle | January 2021

TD A

INS

“ENR IQUE

HA

HE BES

E NC

S

T FA R BY

TRUCTOR S

That’s it. To dance for the

EF

IELD.”

Stefani, began to dance after

TH

A long-time and frequent student at TDC, Michele

IN

love of dancing.

her neighbor’s rave reviews of TDC finally wore her down. After taking one class she admits “I never put my running shoes back on.” She continues, “The space is gorgeous, beautiful light, clean TDC Co-founder and Director Enrique Alarcon.

and bright. Enrique creates a go-to place for feeling good.”

Enrique admits “Westport is a tough crowd. They want good quality for a good price

- which is hard!” Well, yes. Of course we do. We’re all trying to gauge the firmament of possibility when it comes to just about every activity.

So he finds the professional dancers who can “inspire and guide,” in addition to teaching and motivating. One of his many devoted students, who took classes at TDC every day for years, says, “[Enrique] has by far the best dance instructors in the field.”

Enrique bid his native country of Peru a fond chau at age 22, during his fourth year of law school.

The siren song of bailando en los Estados Unidos far exceeded his passion for Peruvian law. “By 22 I knew how to teach, to create,” he explains, “you will find the best of the best in the US.” He went on to create, according to Michele, “a little gem in Westport… it’s special, different - it’s a boutique, not factory-produced.”

Though TDC is about the positive spirit of dance and not about the grind and manipulation we all enjoyed watching in “Black Swan,” it doesn’t mean they don’t churn out amazing dancers. Like, competition-winners-and-finalists amazing. Though he’ll never measure success by the parade of trophies and awards in his studio. He runs TDC by one simple rule: “As long as dance is always a part of their lives, my job is done.”

As for the students, Michele simply states, TDC “Makes me happy.”

CityLifestyle.com/Westport

31

Make your home game your best game.

Hinding Tennis is New England’s premier sport and game court contractor for over 25 years. Specializing in all aspects from Design Build/Planning, Construction, to continued Annual Maintenance.

TENNIS | BASKETBALL | PICKLEBALL | FENCE | LANDSCAPE | LIGHTING | CUSTOM GRAPHICS

203.285.3055 info@hindingtennis.com hindinggroup.com

| ACCESSORIES

fitness you know, to go ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG

HOW LOCAL EXERCISE STUDIOS MUSCLE THROUGH TRYING TIMES.

THIS PAST YEAR WE’VE WITNESSED THE NIMBLE

Local!” “Westport Strong!” We buy wonderful clothes and

PIVOTS OF ELEPHANTS. Within heartbeats, large and

gifts from Savvy + Grace and West when we could buy

complex industries innovated methods of service to

whatever Amazon.com is warehousing. We order gor-

accommodate the legions of customers unable to freely

geous meals from The Cottage and Kawa Ni instead of

move about in stores, offices, and restaurants.

dialing up a national pizza chain. We purchase spin bikes

Throughout this transition from “normal” to “you just can’t be serious,” we’ve raised the rallying cry: “Shop

and online classes from… Peloton?

Uhh… what?

Lauren Kremheller (Photo: Megan Mills)

34

Westport Lifestyle | January 2021

Readers who take classes at boutique studios know this: few

You know and love these instructors: the confidence-building

things create community and positivity more than a favorite exercise

energy of JR’s Mackenzie and the positive spirit of Rhodie. The

class. Whether it’s spin, barre, yoga, etc., we anticipate the energy,

assuredness of PB’s Lydia and you-got-this manner of Lea. They

challenge, and better bodies. It’s not about the room or the view so

know you, they tell you how to effectively adjust to varying fitness

much as the instructors who inspire us and the like-minded people

levels, and they have changed your body and minds in doing so.

to our left and right who motivate us and make us happy we came.

As with their in-studio classes, PB and JR instructors focus on the

Two of Westport’s most beloved studios, JoyRide (JR) and Pure

joy and the journey with a wide variety of custom routines and exer-

Barre (PB), are offering livestream options. So you can get the fun

cises. One spinner noted of a popular online-only app, “The classes

and energy of JR (with their new app, JoyRideGO) and the feel-

are so boring. They don’t do choreography and figure eights. They’re

good vibe of PB.

just standing and in third.” JR Method loyalists, you’ve been warned.

CONTINUED >

Rhodie Lorenz (Photo: @davedellingerphoto)

Elizabeth Veltrie (Photo: Megan Mills)

CityLifestyle.com/Westport

35

FITNESS YOU KNOW, TO GO (CONTINUED)

Behind the scenes at JoyRideGO

Mackenzie Pretty (Photo: @davedellingerphoto)

Of special note, a quick perusal of online fitness classes will show that many instructors equate “fitness” with “minimal clothing.”

Not only is it awkward for mother to watch a 23-year old in full make-up and a micro-bra, it’s awkward for her teenaged children to watch Mom watching these nominally clad individuals. While body-positivity is an integral component of any fitness routine, these family-friendly studios stress improvement and acceptance of one’s physique rather than an uncomfortable urgency to activate parental controls. Also, our studios wear attractive yet tasteful attire.

If the “maintaining a schedule” thing isn’t working out for you, both PB and JoyRideGO will offer a library of classes, searchable in all sorts of ways.

36

Westport Lifestyle | January 2021

Megan Mills (Photo: Megan Mills)

Happy New Year!

2021 It’s Time to Ask Yourself...

Are You Living In Your Dream Home?

Thinking about Selling... or Buying?

There’s no better time than now!

Mortgage rates are low and inventory is flying off the shelf... the market is hot!

I’d love to talk with you!

Let’s get your New Year started by making your dream home come true!

mindy.wolkstein@raveis.com mindywolkstein.raveis.com 203.216.1287

47 Riverside Avenue | Westport, CT 06880

CityLifestyle.com/Westport

37

CAREGIVERS ARE COVID TESTED WEEKLY At Sheraton, we continue to provide around-the-clock caregivers, virtual therapy, 24-hour nursing support, and same-day caregiver placement.

We believe in celebrating those we care for. That is why we have our Expressive Arts program.

Licensed, Insured & Bonded | HCA #0001288 256 Post Road East, Suite 204, Westport, CT 06880 203-221-0221 | info@sheraton.care | www.sheraton.care

Call us 24/7

203-221-0221

WIISHING YOU AND YOURS A HAPPY AND HEALTHY

Ne Yea!

CONVENIENT, COMFORTABLE, and CUSTOMIZED IN-HOME VETERINARY CARE FOR DOGS AND CATS in Fairfield County, CT. jess@bespokevetservice.com

Ph: (203) 360-2371, Fax: (203) 643-2022 www.bespokevetservice.com 38

Westport Lifestyle | January 2021

SGCBBW Attorneys from left to Right: Jake Del Greco, Natassia M. Fodor, Aidan R. Welsh, Jill H. Blomberg, Cynthia C. George, Thomas D. Colin, Peter M. Bryniczka, and Molly C. Sanford

(203) 862-5000 | sgbfamilylaw.com 1700 East Putnam Ave Suite 206 Old Greenwich, CT 06870 | 180 Post Road E., Westport CT, 06880

Proudly introducing our new Westport office: 180 Post Rd. E., Westport, CT 06880

LANDSCAPE DESIGN MASONRY PROPERTY MAINTENANCE 3369 Fairfield Ave, Bridgeport, Connecticut (203)923-2648

jpphilbinlandscapes@gmail.com

CityLifestyle.com/Westport

39

OPEN HOUSE The front desk flanked by custom art painting and block wall-mounted sculpture, found on Etsy.com.

THE DESIGNING DOC TORS

ARE IN

BLENDING ART AND SCIENCE AT THE DENTAL CENTER OF WESTPORT

DRS. MASHA KOGAN AND VIRGINIA ROMANO THINK WALKING INTO THE DENTIST’S OFFICE SHOULD GIVE YOU A RUSH OF SOOTHING, GOOD VIBES, RATHER THAN A TWINGE OF DREAD. After five years of searching for a new, larger office for their dental happy place, they found it on Post Road West. Working with ARTICLE JEN BERNIKER

Kogan’s sister, an interior designer, they combined clean lines and a

PHOTOGRAPHY

neutral base with bold shapes, splatters of color, and playful art. The

MAYA PORRINO

result is a space that is as cutting edge and fun as they are.

40

Westport Lifestyle | January 2021

THE ENTRY The first visual treat is the herringbone floor. “It breaks up the front area from the back and sets a chic, elevated tone,” says Romano. The floor is made of engineered wood so it can handle high-traffic.

Look right and you’ll find a geometric art installation composed of candy-colored hand-painted wooden blocks created by an artist from Valencia (Spain) that Kogan found. The room is furnished with curvy, cozy seating and tables, all purchased from CB2.

THE WALL UNIT To the left is their favorite piece of furniture, a wall unit they designed and had built. Kogan explains, “It’s filled with little art objects we are always curating. Every piece has some meaning, like the ceramic eye that watches over everything and brings in only positive energy.”

The doctors pride themselves on treating the whole patient by connecting lifestyle, diet, and mental well-being with what is going on in the mouth. For example, Romano explains, “if someone has a lot of wear on their teeth, we first ask if they lift CONTINUED >

The sun-drenched lobby with Herringbone floors built for high-traffic. A custom bookshelf holds curated "objet" and meaningful items.

CityLifestyle.com/Westport

41

OPEN HOUSE (CONTINUED) Drs. Virginia Romano (left) and Masha Kogan.

Colorful art aims to bring a smile to patients’ faces.

weights or do cross-fit a ton because they might be clenching. They need a mouth guard or Botox to treat the muscle.” If they

Pucker Up: Lips wallpaper by Voutsa makes a statement in the restroom.

have tooth erosion, the first step might be diagnosing and treating acid reflux with their doctor. And a breast-feeding new mother might be getting some unexpected cavities because her nutrients are being depleted.

Therein lies the root of their holistic approach to design. “Our office appeals to all the senses,” explains Kogan. In addition to scented soy candles by Lulu Candle, patients are also greeted with a curated playlist on Pandora featuring stations and artists like Tep No and Empire of the Sun. Behind the wood clad lobby desk hangs a large-scale painting they commissioned. Proceed on, and you might notice the feeling of spaciousness not typical in a doctor’s office. Kogan says, “the high-ceilings and the grand presence sold us on this space. There are multiple windows in every room looking out on nature. As the light changes, you feel your progress through the

42

Westport Lifestyle | January 2021

day.” The central hallway is flooded with light on all sides, and punctuated by an original “Love” painting by local artist Kerri Rosenthal.

Steven Gemignani + Benjamin Lagasse have teamed up to bring you...

THE WALLPAPER The piece-de-resistance is the Lips wallpaper in both bathrooms, by Voutsa (find them on Instagram). “We had been wanting to use this paper forever.

We chose a different design and color scheme for each bathroom!” Kogan states enthusiastically.

There’s a whole room dedicated to sterilization and two new brand-new autoclaves, machines which use high pressure and temperature to eradicate bio-hazardous waste from the surface of tools. “We would have done this level of infection control pre-Covid, but with all the windows and two separate entrance points to the outdoors, we couldn’t think of a more pandemic-friendly space. We also have a new 3D digital scanner and top-of-the-line leather dental chairs, geeky but fun for us,” says Kogan.

Kogan elaborates, “we take our education in dentistry and add in artistry with our cosmetic services. We ask questions like, why are your teeth little, why is your bite off, what shape is best for you?” Then they work with a high-end lab and ceramicist. “We’ve studied advanced courses by world-renowned dentists to learn about proportion and aesthetics.” And now, their equal love of science and aesthetics is represented in their office as well.

Aside from their matching pink PPE and shared shoe obsession, you may also notice their easy partnership and friendship, which they attribute to synergy in their thought processes, values, and tastes in fashion, music, architecture and art. “This makes our relationship authentic. I think the patients can feel that,” says Kogan. “We both know the treatment plan for every single patient.

And even though it’s hard to see our faces

It’s not a salon.....it’s a movement.

right now, we are both very smiley people.

Our motto in life is to be positive.”

(203) 557-9100 | 833 POST ROAD EAST WESTPORT, CONNECTICUT 06880

The Dental Center of Westport 175 Post Rd West, Westport CityLifestyle.com/Westport

43

25

S U R F R OA D WESTPORT | $6,750,000

A rare find in Saugatuck Shores. A direct waterfront home with unobstructed views of Long Island Sound. This home with the potential to be 8,000 sq. ft. plus its existing 3-car garage, pool and deep water dock cannot be replicated due to current zoning. Enjoy the beach lifestyle!

203.984.1068 Luxury Properties Specialist

marilyn.heffers@raveis.com | marilynheffers.raveis.com 47 Riverside Avenue | Westport, CT 06880

saugatuck-financial.com 203.221.5275 | 274 Riverside Avenue, Westport, CT

Justin Charise, CFP® Comprehensive Financial Planning Wealth Management | Estate Planning Insurance, Retirement and Tax Strategies

All investments carry some level of risk, including the potential loss of principal invested. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss. Saugatuck Financial is a marketing name for Justin Charise and is not a broker-dealer, registered investment advisor, federal savings bank, subsidiary or other corporate affiliate of The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company including its subsidiaries, nor is it a legal partnership or entity. Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company, Milwaukee, WI (NM), and its subsidiaries. Charise is a representative of Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company®, NMWMC Milwaukee, WI, a subsidiary of NM and limited purpose federal savings bank, and registered representatives of Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC (securities), a subsidiary of NM, registered investment adviser, broker-dealer and member FINRA and SIPC. All NMWMC products and services are offered only by properly credentialed representatives who operate from agency offices of NMWMC.

44

Westport Lifestyle | January 2021

Missing Link

Caviar Band

Riviera Necklace

EVERYDAY ARMOR for jewelry lovers who spoil themselves WESTPORT

a

ve

hea

la

Br

ce

GREENWICH

r t Ne c

k

ggies Hu

Thread ers

JLROCKS.COM

CityLifestyle.com/Westport

45

INSPIRED BY

C H

YO U A R E T H E C ATA LY S T F O R CHANGE

ARTICLE DR. JOHN C. MAXWELL IF SOMEONE WERE TO ASK YOU, “WHAT GETS YOU OUT OF BED IN THE MORNING?” how would

A

you reply? Would you talk about your job or your family? Would you tell them about a dream you’re chasing or a goal you’re trying to meet?

What we give our lives to says a lot about who we are. For forty years now, I’ve gotten out of bed in the morning with one single focus: adding value to leaders

I’ve spent decades learning what it takes to trans-

who will multiply value to others.

form communities and countries, and with my

Because of that focus, I’ve authored over 80 books

writing partner, Rob Hoskins, have produced a

on relationships, equipping people, attitude, and lead-

book that offers step by step instruction on how

ership, all with the purpose of expanding my reach to

leaders—people who care to make a difference—

add value to leaders.

can produce transformation in their own backyard.

Four decades, dedicated to making better leaders.

It’s a book written for everyone—including you.

But now, as I enter into my fifth decade, my purpose

You are a potential catalyst for change in your

has expanded. I still get of bed with the goal of adding

community, no matter where you live, no matter

value to leaders who will multiply value to others, but

what you do. All it takes is your willingness to

there’s an even greater purpose behind it all.

step up as a leader. Harriet Tubman once said,

Transformation. I want to see our world transformed

“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always

into one where every human being is encouraged and

remember, you have within you the strength, the

allowed to live to their full potential. Imagine what it would

patience, and the passion to reach for the stars

be like to live in a world where everyone—men, women,

and change the world.”

children—were equipped and empowered to live a life of deep purpose. We would truly see a transformed world.

46

RENOWNED LEADERSHIP COACH DETAILS HOW CHANGE IN A COMMUNITY CAN START WITH ONE PERSON: YOU

If you dream of changing your community, or city, or country, you must not only dream, you must

That’s the message of my latest book, Change Your

also act. Many things in life just happen, but pos-

World: How Anyone, Anywhere Can Make a Difference.

itive change isn’t one of them. Changing anything

G

Westport Lifestyle | January 2021

in our world requires someone to be the catalyst.

Someone like you.

N

N

Leaders like you become catalysts for change when they do three things: pick a problem to address, invite others to join them, and do what they can where they are.

Dr. John C. Maxwell

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Westport

47

L

INSPIRED BY (CONTINUED)

1. Pick a Problem to Address A leader can never become a catalyst until he or she first takes ownership of the problem they wish to solve. You cannot rally people to a cause that you aren’t willing to own, especially these days; people know when a leader is being half-hearted, and they don’t respect it. When you pick a problem to solve or a cause to rally around, you must have conviction in order to succeed.

Over the years, I’ve learned that whenever I feel a sense of conviction about an issue, I need to start moving in the direction I believe I should go, even if I’m uncertain. Action creates ownership, and ownership creates credibility with people. And you need that

E

credibility because transformation cannot be done by one person alone—we all need people to join us on the journey.

A 48

Westport Lifestyle | January 2021

D

2. Invite Others to Join You When you’ve settled on the problem you want to tackle you should immediately begin looking for others to join you. In the book, Rob and I recommend starting with friends and family; you already have influence with them, and chances are you’re of like mind in many areas. Go to those family members who frequently ask you for advice or seek your opinion on personal matters, as you likely have greater influence with them.

To move beyond family, however, you’ll need to take a leap of faith and

2. to the Join You beginInvite sharing yourOthers passion for solving problem with other people. Passion

attracts, and when people come to you with interest, don’t be afraid to ask

When them you’ve settled the you to your tackle you Empowering people what they on think or problem invite them to want improve ideas. should immediately begin looking to join you.

In the to help you creates a bond, for andothers once that bond is established, you will quickly book, Rob and I recommend withwith friends you discover who you canstarting truly work and and invitefamily; them to take action with you. already have influence with them, and chances are you’re of like

3. Do What You Can Where You Are

mind in many areas. Go to those family members who frequently

ask you for advice or seek your opinion on personal matters, as you likely have greater influence with them.

the final step. It you’ll doesn’t have be abig or grand; it doesn’t even To moveAction beyondis family, however, need to to take leap of be guaranteed of success.

Nothing happens faith andhave begintosharing your passion for solving the problem within life until someone does Passion something, and once you take yourcome first step, thewith next step will come into other people. attracts, and when people to you focus.be Remember thatthem transformation is a process, an event. It takes time interest, don’t afraid to ask what they think or invite not them andyour repeated to bringpeople about positive change.

So focus on purpose, not to improve ideas. action Empowering to help you creates a perfection, doiswhat you know to will do. quickly discover bond, and once thatand bond established, you These threewith steps may seem too but with I assure who you can truly work and invite them to simple, take action you. you they work. The goal of all transformational movements is making things better however possible. Incremental change is better than the status quo; and when you’re truly committed to making your community a better place, you know that any improvement is a significant improvement.

If you’d like to learn more about transformation

No matter what problems or challenges face your

and how to become a leader of transformation, then

community, you are the catalyst for change that can

I encourage you to pick up my book, Change Your

make all the difference. But you must choose to get

World, from your favorite bookstore or online retailer.

involved; transformation won’t choose you—you

If you’re concerned about making the world a better

must choose transformation.

place, then you know that now is the best time for leaders like us to make that dream a reality.

For the sake of your community and mine, I sincerely hope you do.

CityLifestyle.com/Westport

49

WESTPORT USA

by Frankie Vinci at Westport River Gallery

One Riverside Ave • 203.226.6934 50

Westport Lifestyle | January 2021

architectural design custom homes . remodeling www.westportbuilder.com

203.227.1055

thank you for your support so long 2020

book online

blowdrysouthport.com westport

southport

203.557.4789 203.292.8543 @blowdry_sw CityLifestyle.com/Westport

51

LEGAL COMPASS

ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG

Healthy Divorce in Unhealthy Times EXPERT ADVICE AND INSIGHT

TO KICK OFF THE NEW YEAR, WE DECIDED TO TACKLE ONE OF THE MOST POLARIZING SUBJECTS ON THE PLANET: DIVORCE. And yes, I can almost hear the collective bristling and baring of your teeth. I understand - no one wants to get divorced just as no one wants to get sick or go bankrupt.

But it happens.

Before diving into these shark-infested waters, a few caveats: First, a divorce is the outcome of a negative experience which can and should be treated with dignity and respect. Second, we are not encouraging uncoupling; we’d love for every single marriage to last forever and ever. Lastly, I am living proof that an amicable divorce and happy future is possible.

Personally, I was devastated about getting a divorce. I was told my life would be over, my kids would suffer irreparably, and I’d forever bear the stigma of being an “ex.” Luckily, none of that happened. So if you’re going through a divorce, don’t listen to people. Listen to a trusted attorney.

Fortunately, we’ve already started these conversations for you with attorneys Carole Orland and Eric Broder from Broder Orland Murray & DeMattie LLC, Peter Bryniczka from Schoonmaker George Colin Blomberg Bryniczka & Welsh, P.C., and Jill Bicks and Livia DeFilippis Barndollar from Pullman & Comley LLC. Oh - I did receive one piece of good advice from a friend: “You have no choice, you just have to go through it.” So stand up straight, buy an expensive pair of shoes, and take your first steps to the other side.

52

Westport Lifestyle | January 2021

Carole Orland and Eric Broder Broder Orland Murray & DeMattie LLC

1

WLM: What’s your first piece of advice?

Carole: “Try really hard to come to a solution sooner than later without unnecessarily

expending emotional and financial resources. Why spend significant money on legal fees and become entwined in a system for a year or more when you can resolve your case early on, protect your children, conserve your assets, and go on with your life?”

Eric: “You only hear about the cases that are contentious because they are more

interesting. The overwhelming majority of cases are resolved amicably. One reason is that courts, even if one party had an affair, was emotionally abusive, or had a drinking

2

problem, rarely divide assets 80/20 or 75/25. In reality, as competent divorce lawyers will advise their clients, there is a narrow band on how cases are resolved.”

WLM: Where should a couple start?

CO: “Start with kids, kids, kids. Address their issues first. Financial issues can wait. Start

by establishing a Parenting Plan. Most parents want to do right by their kids and it’s often a good jumping-off point for the rest of negotiations.

EB: “Also, recognize that [Parenting Plans] are living and breathing documents: what is

appropriate for an 8-year old may change when the child is 14.”

EB: “Be very careful when listening to friends and neighbors because each case is

different. If someone tells you they are not paying alimony, I would ask: Why? Is it because

3

they paid their spouse a lump sum? Did they keep the house? Was there an inheritance?”

WLM: Is there life after divorce?

EB: “Many couples thrive as individuals after the case is over. I get a lot of calls out of the blue

from former clients just to tell me how well things are going, in particular, between their now ex-spouse. Often these relationships get better without tension of divorce…”

CO: “Their health often improves, for example, maybe they’ve tackled alcoholism or anxiety.

We see clients get happily remarried. That’s when it’s time do a Prenup!”

Broder Orland Murray & DeMattie LLC CtFamilyLaw.com

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Westport

53

LEGAL COMPASS (CONTINUED)

Peter Bryniczka Schoonmaker George Colin Blomberg Bryniczka & Welsh, P.C.

1

WLM: What should you/should you not tell the kids?

Peter: “Ideally parents can agree, perhaps with advice of a therapist, to tell the children

together in an age appropriate way that a divorce will be happening and emphasize that ‘Mom and Dad love you children more than anything and are committed to continuing to be great parents.’ Don’t say negative things about the other parent, don’t discuss particulars nor issues

related to the divorce with them or let them know anything they don’t need to know. Protect them from the process. Let them be happy when spending time with your ex. Divorces end and how you conduct yourself in the divorce will affect your relationship with your spouse and chil-

2

dren and your financials. Maintain dignity and protect your kids from the process. Every decision you make in the process can add to or detract from this.”

WLM: What should you/should you not say to your spouse?

PB: “Divorce is not a fun nor happy process, but spouses control what sort of

divorce they have. Learn and agree on how to disagree. You never get in trouble for what you don’t say, so try to be the bigger person. A 10 second statement can set you back 10 years.”

3

WLM: What are some of the biggest mistakes clients make?

PB: “People are hurt by factors leading up to divorce and want to approach the process as

a way to exact punishment or vengeance upon the spouse. People have every right to be dev-

astated, but I need them to understand how it will or will not factor in from a legal stand-point.

But divorce doesn’t happen in criminal court; it’s civil. Judges seek equity, not punishment.”

Schoonmaker George Colin Blomberg Bryniczka & Welsh, P.C. SGBFamilyLaw.com 54

Westport Lifestyle | January 2021

Livia DeFilippis Barndollar and Jill Bicks Pullman & Comley LLC

1

WLM: How do you define a “healthy” divorce?

Jill: “A healthy divorce is one that recognizes that divorce is most often a transition

to a new future family structure, rather than a war to be won focusing on the past. If the divorcing couple has children, no matter what the children’s ages, that couple is

2

connected forever. Focusing on the past drains the clients’ energy and pocketbooks – and for what? The past cannot be changed. Focusing on possibilities for the future is much more productive, empowering and leads to better outcomes.”

WLM: Child custody arrangements have evolved from the traditional every-other-weekend/ Wednesday nights schedule. Can you speak to that?

Livia: “Even if one parent has been the primary caregiver, the court will use a best-interests-of-the-child

standard in determining what parenting time and decision-making is going to look like. It is usually best for the parents to agree on a parenting plan for the children. The primary caregiving parent should understand that if s/he puts time sharing issues to the court, the amount of time that the other parent will have with the child is likely to enlarge from what it was when the family was intact, when the parents divorce.”

3

WLM: What is a common misconception among divorcing couples?

JB: “Outcomes are far better when the clients are oriented to think about their future

goals and interests. What emerges is the sense that the divorce, while an ending to a

4

marriage, is not an ending to a life or a family. Rather, it is a transition – a difficult one for sure – to a new phase or chapter in life and a new family structure.”

WLM: What is the best advice you can give people?

LB: “It is a very unusual case where one party is all ‘right’ and the other is all ‘wrong’ you are going

to have a rougher time of it if you simply can’t imagine that the other party or parent deserves to be fairly treated. In the end, a divorce is going to be less painful if you envision a productive future; your pathway to it can be more healthy than if you are focusing on what you have lost, your grief, or your anger. Give yourself license to imagine yourself, at least whole, if not happy, after the divorce is over.”

Pullman & Comley LLC PullCom.com CityLifestyle.com/Westport

55

WOOD BIN Solid Wood Furniture

Celebrating 40 Years Founded in 1980

305 Federal Road Brookfield, CT (203) 775-1770 | woodbinfurniture.com

40 year anniversary sale now in progress

bedford square, westport 56

Westport Lifestyle | January 2021

whipsalon.com

OF WE S T P OR T, C T REGISTR ATIONS ARE OPEN FOR ALL OUR DANCE PROGR AMS. DANCE IN A SAFE ENVIRONMENT WITH THE BEST DANCE TEACHERS.

Open to Adults, Kids and Tots in Group Classes, Private Lessons, Livestream Classes Available Director Enrique Alarcon | (203) 341-8900 | 222 Post Rd. West TheDanceCollective | thedancecollectivect.com

EXPERIENCED. OBJECTIVE. PASSIONATE. 1265 Post Road East Westport, CT 06880 203-429-0450 clapboardhill.com Investment advice offered through Stratos Wealth Advisors, LLC, a registered investment advisor, DBA Clapboard Hill Private Wealth.

CityLifestyle.com/Westport

57

PARTING THOUGHTS

n bi

M

oy

e

itor of Westport L g, Ed ifes hun t y le C r

Ma ga z e in

01

WEAR S T I LE T T O S .

Ro

MY RESOLUTIONS FOR 2021 After a months-long hit parade of “loungewear” my attire needs an impactful (yet effortless) overhaul.

It needs a few needle-heeled pairs of toe-pinchers.

I know stilettos are “out” but I don’t care. They’re wildly impractical and glamorous and smarten up whatever I blindly drag out of my closet for another day of grocery shopping and staying safe at home

ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG | PHOTOGRAPHY MINDY BRIAR

with the kids.

58

02

BE MORE DISCIPLINE D.

Once a week in our home we have “Kids Survival Day.” On this day my kids wake up on their own, make themselves breakfast, and get off to school.

It teaches them responsibility, plus I get to sleep in an hour or so. Lately I’ve noticed that Kids

04

KEEP A PET FISH ALIVE .

Nothing says “misguided impulse purchase” like a betta

Survival Day is almost every day. There’s a fine

fish. I go to Petco for bunny food and before I know it I’m

line between teaching kids responsibility and

halfway home with a relatively useless creature who’ll be

being a lousy role model.

wholly dependent on me for survival. After a few months it dies. I feel sad. It freaks me out. I can do better.

03

D O W H AT I W R I T E A B O U T.

Shop local, take a dance class, listen to more Michael Bolton. I’m always wildly impressed by the

05

GIVE SOMEONE AN ENORMOUS TIP.

It would brighten my day if someone handed me scads of

people I meet through WLM and I usually leave the

money for serving them a meal or weeding a garden, but

interview wanting to be just like them.

my kids don’t have that kind of cash.

Westport Lifestyle | January 2021

INTRODUCING THE NEW LAND ROVER DEFENDER

MSRP FROM $49,900* The Land Rover Defender story began with the simple thought of creating an exceptionally capable off-road vehicle. Today, the story continues with the New Land Rover Defender. While it builds on the legacy of previous versions, it’s a completely new vehicle. As the toughest and most advanced Land Rover vehicle ever produced, it can confidently take you to some of the most remote places on earth—and back again. Put the New Land Rover Defender to the test at your Land Rover Retailer.

Land Rover Fairfield One Commerce Drive, Fairfield, CT 06825 203.874.8500 Landroverfairfield.com

Vehicle shown: 2020 Land Rover Defender 110 with optional equipment. *Price shown is Base Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price for 2020, Land Rover, Defender 110 Standard. Excludes $1,025 destination/ handling, tax, title, license, retailer fees, all due at signing, and optional equipment. Retailer price, terms and vehicle availability may vary. See your participating Land Rover Retailer for complete details, visit LANDROVERUSA.COM or call 1-800-FIND-4WD / 1-800-346-3493. © 2020 Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC