River Valley Woman December 2019

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WE CREATE SPACES WHERE FAMILIES CREATE MEMORIES

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BY EILEEN MADSEN Editor

and for many, the religious significance surrounding the season is what it’s all about. Even if one is not a regular church-goer, you might still find yourself in a house of worship, or gathered with family and friends from all sides of the aisle, celebrating together. In this Devotion issue we wanted to have the good grace to tell the stories of this area’s many, many women in ministry, women in the sisterhood, and women who just plain do good.

Our cover feature, Reverend Ally Bowman, is a colorful ray of hope, dressed in black and white. She walks alongside her congregation, not with the intent to bring God to them, as according to her—God is already there—but rather to ask “what do you need?” With her youthful spirit and, at times, rainbow-colored hair, her motto is to simply be authentic. Amen to that.

Let there be music! In my churchly experiences, music was the best part of the service. Singing together, or listening to a choir or musician, has the power to sooth the soul or bring a congregation together—even if we are all out of tune.

Musical director Emily Bruflat strives to not let the Sunday ceremonies fall flat. Knowing how music can affect emotions, Emily is mindful to blend musical heritage with modern compositions to reach, and move, a broad audience. Her lifelong devotion to good stewardship and making the most of one’s gifts has now spilled over to a noteworthy role for her as a newly elected city councilwoman. I grew up in a Catholic household and likely attended every single holy day and mass known to God and man. And I have the glowin-the dark rosaries to show for my efforts. Although on a different path as an adult, I still remember those catechism classes on Saturday mornings with Sister Martine, a young and mesmerizing woman, who sang

songs and talked about being kind and having respect for others. Plus she laughed when we 8-year-olds called her Sister “Martini.” While I have fond memories of those days, I am not so sure the nuns can say the same of me who did not hesitate to question them every step of the way.

Then again, it seems questioning and speaking out is a necessary part of one’s calling. Our feature on the School Sisters of Notre Dame was an eye-opener. These women, most of whom are senior citizens and then some, know their minds, and mind what is happening politically and environmentally. They have the attitude, the fortitude and the protest signs to prove it. At the heart of everything they do is education. They feel that if the world is going to be transformed, it’s the women who will do it, and we must believe in ourselves. No question about that!

For some, the holiday season isn’t all candy canes, family meals, and hymns. That is where the women at Connections Ministry Shelter come in. Minnesota is especially tough on those who may find themselves homeless, especially during winter months. Shelter manager Jennifer Valimont, co-directors

Pastor Erica Koser, and associate Pastor Collette Broady Grund, along with an ecumenical group of churches, put theological differences aside and joined together to help others. And that’s what it’s all about, Charlie Brown.

Sometimes it takes walking a mile in others’ shoes (or snow boots!) to understand families’ needs. That is when YWCA parent educator for Somali and Syrian immigrants, Lul Omar, steps up. She knows the challenges they face because she was new to the area once herself. Not being able to speak English at the time, and with little support after having her first child, she now devotes her life to helping those in the same situation thrive and succeed here.

Our December Facebook poll asks: “What is your most treasured holiday decoration or ornament, and why?” Answers ranged from the traditional angels and family heirlooms, to the not so typical dragon ornaments and décor made from volcanic ash.

My favorite ornament, an old plastic Santa from the 1960s with half his felt outfit falling off, and a hole on the bottom (perfect size to skewer him onto the top of the tree) has finally deteriorated to the point where we sent him off to North Pole heaven. However, my new favorite is a beautifully illustrated, cardboard nativity set from the 1940s that I scored at a local thrift shop. Our cat will likely agree when he knocks it over on Christmas morning.

Honestly, it was surprising the number of women in the river valley who are involved in ministry and other areas of religious service. But what’s not so surprising is that it’s these devoted women, among others, who will bring change and joy to the world. Preach it.

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By MARIE ZIMMERMAN PHOTOS BY ALICE HQ PHOTOGRAPHY

ev. Allyson Bowman isn’t bringing God to anyone. God is already there, she contends.

“I’m not here to save you,” said Bowman, who has served as pastor at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Le Center since 2017.

Instead, she walks alongside her congregation, asking: “What do you need? How can I accompany you on this journey?”

There’s a glass case displaying photos of former pastors in a gathering space at her small, rural church. No one pictured looks quite like “Pastor Ally,” who is in her early 30s and came to her initial interview with her hair dyed like a peacock’s tail.

While she may not see herself reflected in the church’s history, she’s been inspired by strong female mentors, including her mother, Rev. Barb Streed. Neither mother nor daughter envisioned herself as a pastor, much less sharing the vocation; both balked at the idea initially, though they’d always taken active roles in church life.

The call to full-time ministry came to Bowman while she was serving with ELCA Global Mission. She’d graduated from Augsburg College in 2009 with a double major in Youth and Family Ministry and Spanish. Her heart was set on becoming a youth director, but there weren’t openings. Ever since she was little, Bowman had wanted to visit Japan, so she applied to serve with the mission in Japan. She was accepted and taught English at a Lutheran high school in the country’s southernmost islands. Bowman also worked with two congregations—one English-speaking and one Japanese-speaking. Leading the liturgy in English led her to believe she was called to serve as a pastor, an idea that caused her to laugh out loud in her undergraduate days.

Bowman enrolled in Luther Seminary and—during her studies—she worked full-time for a summer as a chaplain at a hospital for required experiential learning.

“That experience really prepares you to offer that pastoral care. And it’s amazing how the Spirit intercedes. Even when we go thinking, ‘I don’t know what I’m gonna do here,’ as soon as you step into it, God is there,” Bowman said. “You can hold people in that calming presence. You are invited into strangers’ lives during the most intimate—whether it’s joyful or sorrowful—times in their lives. You’re there, and

they want you there.”

Also during seminary, Bowman shadowed a pastor who modeled what it meant to be genuine in a very public role, in La Crosse, Wisconsin.

“She showed me I could be authentically me. I could be silly and really joyful and not somber during worship and it would be okay. To be authentic in a congregation, that’s the best way to be,” Bowman said. “Congregations will know if you’re not being authentic and they’re not going to listen.”

While at seminary, Bowman met her husband, Tim. The two married in 2015.

Before her graduation, Bowman interviewed to be the pastor at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Le Center. The call committee included one teen—who was also sporting peacock-hued hair—and Bowman quickly hit it off with her and other congregants.

“This congregation is just so willing to try new things. They’ve been very gracious with me,” Bowman—who also likes to try new things, like starting a youth group—said.

“I love youth,” she said, adding that she acts like a 12-yearold anyway. “And I feel like I jibe pretty well with youth.”

It has been challenging at times to be a new resident in this already tight-knit community, especially in a role that is more an identity than a job.

“It’s interesting to think the community knows you as a pastor. I’m not Ally. I’m Pastor Ally,” Bowman said.

A shared calling

Raised Catholic, Barb Streed, Ally’s mother, longed to be an altar server at Mass, but girls weren’t allowed to do so then.

“I wanted to have a greater voice growing up in my church. There wasn’t always a place for me to serve in the way I wanted to,” Streed—who converted to Lutheranism after marrying her husband—said.

Still, she had never dreamed of leading a church. After having three kids, she decided to go back to school to be a teacher. She’d dropped out of her first year of college when she was pregnant with Allyson. It took six years to finish her teaching degree, working part-time and raising a family.

Then four years into teaching English, Streed felt God was calling her to go to seminary. She was unsure and took 

What was your favorite subject in school?  English.

At what job would you be terrible?

Being an assembler required to read detailed instructions.

What’s one thing about you that surprises people?

I was on a TV show called “Regis and Kathy Lee.”

What’s your favorite scripture verse?

Isaiah 43: 1-7 which begins, “But now, says the Lord—the one who created you, Jacob, the one who formed you, Israel: Don’t fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are mine.”

What three things do you think of the most each day?

My family, the congregations I’m serving, the fact that I need to find a hobby.

What is your proudest accomplishment?

Being married to my high school sweetheart for 33 years now and going strong.

What is the best gift you have been given?

The gift of being a mom—and, coming in February, a grandma!

 about a year of praying and talking about it before enrolling in evening classes. She studied while teaching full time, beginning at Bethel Seminary and graduating from Luther Seminary.

“I had kind of made this deal with God because, like a lot of people called to ministry, you don’t feel worthy and you don’t feel intellectual enough. If I ever failed, I knew it wasn’t for me. And I never failed a class,” Streed said.

“Not even Greek!” Bowman added.

Bowman’s first semester at Luther Seminary was her mom’s last. Streed was wrapping up seven years of classes to become ordained, a second career for the mother of three.

“That we would overlap in that moment of time was a gift,” Streed said. “The really beautiful thing is my final semester was Ally’s first (at seminary).”

Since being ordained, Streed has enjoyed officiating at the weddings of both her daughters. She was serving as pastor at Faith Lutheran Church in Dodge Center, Minnesota when she was called to become the assistant to the bishop for the Southeastern Minnesota Synod of ELCA this summer. Despite not leading a congregation through her daily work, Streed is still a pastor.

“I’m humbled that God has chosen me for this particular vocation… We have a world of people who are hurting— and also celebrating—and in need of a tangible sign of God’s presence in their lives—and that’s what a pastor is,” Streed said. “We are not more or less than anybody we’re serving. We have the privilege of God working through us in a way people need to experience God.”

Shifting priorities

On a brilliant autumn day earlier this year, friends and family gathered at St. Paul Lutheran Church for a funeral. Sunlight filtered through the stained glass, illuminating wooden benches polished by worship. After the last mourner left, the air still smelled faintly of lunch, and rows of black and silver coffee pots stood, neatly arranged, ready for another time of fellowship. It wasn’t unlike other services held here, except Bowman didn’t preside over this funeral in her church.

The deceased was a member of the United Methodist Church, just a few blocks away in Le Center. The United Methodist Church closed in August, leaving its remaining dozen or so members without a church home. It’s a reminder close to home of the challenges faith communities face with dwindling membership. Formed

in 1988 by a merger of three Lutheran denominations, the ELCA is a relatively new denomination, but it feels the same pressures.

Changing priorities and difficult choices keep people from the pews, Streed believes. People have so many options on Sunday that didn’t exist previously, but they’re still craving the connection of gathering to worship.

“That hasn’t changed, but so much around us has. So many things infringe on that relationship (with church). How do we continue to serve the needs of people in our communities with the ever-changing priorities?” Streed asked.

Counting heads on Sunday isn’t the measure of a congregation for Bowman. “The church is really the people. The building may not be full, but the church is still here.”

There’s a theory that the Christian church reforms itself every 500 years, Streed noted, and she wondered aloud if the Christian church body wasn’t asking the same questions of itself 500 years ago during the Protestant Reformation, feeling the same fear and excitement as major changes rocked the church.

Change can bring needed reforms, including the recognition that not everyone called to leadership has been allowed to lead. In 2019 and 2020 the ELCA is marking 50 years of Lutheran women being ordained in the United States, 40 years of women of color being ordained, and 10 years of LGBTQIA+ individuals being allowed to serve freely. As part of this anniversary year, the church is celebrating the gifts and service women have brought to the ELCA and to the world as pastors.

“As a female pastor, our voice, our face, isn’t present in the deep history of this denomination. When a voice is missing, something more is missing,” Streed said. “Whose voice hasn’t been at the table? How are we acknowledging our part in that, how are we moving forward so that every person has the opportunity to follow their calling?”

The ELCA proclaims all are welcome— all races, all genders, all economic statuses—and Bowman strives to share that invitation.

“I feel like in the church, people are looking for community. You can come just as you are and be valued for the gifts God has given you and value others,” Bowman said. “Our mission and our ministry is to share that love divine, abundant, unimaginable love. All of us are called to share that love in the various ways we’re gifted.” RVW

 If you could choose to do anything for a day, what would it be?

It doesn’t sound very exciting, but I’d have my family over for games and hors d’oeuvres. It’s always a good time when we’re together!

What’s the most daring thing you’ve ever done?

I’d say the most daring thing I’ve ever done is move to Japan to live/work for 2.5 years as an ELCA missionary. Besides a semester abroad in college, I’d never lived outside of Minnesota nor had I lived in a place where I couldn’t speak or read the language upon arrival. Other than that, outdoor rock climbing.

Aside from necessities, what one thing could you not go a day without?

Is coffee a necessity? If not: coffee. If so: snuggles with my cat, Ruby.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

I was once venting to a long-haul trucker about terrible drivers—I confess, I have a bit of self-diagnosed road rage—thinking that he would empathize with me. However, he told me that he doesn’t get angry at terrible drivers. When I asked him why not, he said, “What’s the point of getting angry at something I can’t change? I can’t change the way that person drives, so why should I let that ruin my day?” If I’m going to be upset about something, it’s going to be about something worthwhile—and then I’m going to put my effort into facilitating change.

What’s your favorite hymn?

“Of the Father’s Love Begotten” is my all-time favorite hymn. The first time I remember hearing it was at Augsburg College’s Advent Vespers service (for which I played violin). It so perfectly summed up the Advent season and was performed beautifully that I still get chills when I think about it.

How old were you when you learned Santa wasn’t real? How did you find out?

I believe I was in elementary school. I remember sitting with my parents and asking them if Santa was real, with the added, “Tell me the truth.” They looked at me and said, “Of course he’s real, honey.” To which I responded, “ Don’t lie to me!” I have no idea where that came from or how I knew, but I do remember this exchange.

What is your favorite family holiday tradition?

Growing up, my favorite family tradition was Christmas Eve dinner. My parents would set the table with fine china and we each got our own Santa candle at our place setting. Then we’d hop in the car and drive around to different fast food restaurants. We could go wherever we wanted, which meant that sometimes we went to five different places—one for each member of the family. It was the best!

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By KATIE SONNEK

What’s the first thing most people think of when they think of Minnesota? You guessed it—our famous winters. As the holidays approach, the North Star state prepares not only for family celebrations, but snow and staggering belowzero temperatures.

Minnesota residents normally don’t need to worry about inclement weather conditions unless they are required to leave the warmth of their homes. But what if someone doesn’t have a home? What do they do?

That’s the question Jennifer Valimont asked herself when she moved to Mankato from Alabama in August 2017. With a background in ministry and a heart for anyone in a difficult phase of life, Valimont found herself increasingly concerned for the local homeless population as her familiarity with Minnesota’s long winters increased.

“When I moved here, I really wanted to connect with serving the community, and when I experienced my first cold day, I was at a grocery store and my eyelids froze! My WE DO SHELTER,

WE DO FOOD, AND

Rev. Collette Broady Grund, Rev. Erica Koser, and shelter manager Jenn Valimont

first thought was, ‘What does the homeless community do here?’ Because this weather will kill you,” Valimont recalled.

Valimont began to ask around about shelters and other resources and was surprised to discover that not many locals realized that there was an area homeless problem. While tent cities and sleeping bags on urban sidewalks give homelessness more visibility in big cities like Minneapolis, Mankato’s unhoused population is less noticeable.

“It’s such a huge need [for housing] in our community, but I think it’s not an easily seen need,” Valimont said. “The homelessness here is very hidden.”

Fortunately for Valimont, she had arrived in Mankato at the same time that this desire to provide shelter was stirring in other hearts.

Pastor Erica Koser of Centenary United Methodist and Associate Pastor Collette Broady Grund of Bethlehem Lutheran had seen the homeless community’s need and felt compelled to answer it. That answer was the formation of Connections Ministry.

“Connections Ministry really started with a gathering of downtown churches,” Koser said. “We were seeing a lot of the same people that were coming to each of our congregations, looking for assistance, looking for help with any variety of crises, and we realized that we were not doing a good job of utilizing our resources as churches. We knew we could do this better.”

But how to do it? Money was perhaps the biggest factor. Providing free temporary housing, amenities, and food is no cheap matter. Almost as concerning, however, was how to mobilize volunteers.

As the two women and their board members discussed their idea, they decided that—lacking a permanent structure—each church would take turns hosting the homeless community for a week before rotating to the next church. After researching other shelters’ operations, Koser and Grund, now co-directors, believed this to be the best model for success, but still harbored concerns about whether all of the congregations would work well together.

“We all wondered how well it would work,” Grund admitted. “Our churches have become so politically and so ideologically divided.”

She shared that, once shelter plans were in motion, she found that each church was far more interested in working together and providing resources for those in need than they were in discussing theological differences.

“We understand that the ecumenical nature of this work requires us to keep the focus on the most important thing, and that is to care for the people,” Grund said of their collaboration. “We are not going to get bogged down in any of our disagreements.”

With the shelter’s model chosen, the next step was finding someone to run daily proceedings. Re-enter Valimont, who had been following the group’s progression—and now offered her services. The directors interviewed and hired her as the manager for their fledgling shelter—in charge of outreach, fundraising, and linking those who came through their doors with the right organizations to help them take the next step. These might include affordable housing initiatives, job agencies, health centers, and resources for combatting addiction. Because of their focus on providing temporary resources and assisting their guests in finding further help, they named their mission Connections Shelter.

Connections Shelter provides temporary shelter to anyone in need of a roof over their head. Families and single people alike can take advantage. Guests can check-in beginning at 7 p.m., bringing a few belongings, and are assigned a bed. A few paid staff members work overnight to make sure their guests’ needs are met. A rotating staff of volunteers from area churches take care of everything else, from cleaning, to serving a hot evening meal, to providing another very important service—fellowship.

“When our volunteers come in, they don’t just serve the meal and stand in our meal service line, they actually make themselves a meal as well, sit down at the table, and then we all eat together, like a family,” Valimont said. “And that really is the difference in what we do here because it’s very relational. To help people get to the next step they really do need a foundation of a relationship. So, we do shelter, we do food, and we do relationships really well.”

While warm beds and camaraderie are always on the menu, one thing that isn’t directly offered is religion. Koser, Grund, and the other church leaders associated with Connections strongly believe that the work they do is rooted in their faiths, but they decided that to maintain a complete sense of welcome for their guests, the volunteers would not share their religious beliefs unless explicitly requested to do so.

“The Scriptures say very clearly that one of the ways that we love God is by loving those around us, especially those who are most vulnerable in our community,” Grund said. “While our work is completely motivated by our faith, we also wanted our guests to understand that we weren’t going to put any pressure on them about their faith lives as they were welcome to come regardless of their faith traditions.”

At the end of Connections’ first full year, the co-directors and Valimont were faced with a positive—and puzzling—dilemma. Their moveable shelter was undoubtedly working, meeting a need among the Mankato-area homeless and fulfilling the churches’ desire to serve their brothers and sisters. On the other hand, the task of moving the shelter from building to building each week was becoming a strain. The Connections team was eager to find a permanent home for their shelter. Throwing a huge fundraising bash seemed like the best way to accomplish this.

“We thought if we could start an event that can be replicated every year, that would be a big help,” Carrol Meyers-Dobler, former professional fundraiser and executive director of homeless shelters in both North Dakota and Mankato, said.

Meyers-Dobler first came aboard the Connections team as a board member but quickly transitioned into volunteer fundraising. She, the directors, the shelter staff, and the board dreamed up a money-raising event that would increase awareness in the Mankato community and unite the town for a good cause.

On September 12, Connections Ministry hosted Connections Crawl, an after-hours shopping event held on Riverfront Drive that boasted food and wine tastings from local restaurants, breweries, and wineries; exclusive shopping opportunities; and silent auction gift baskets. The event began at the historic Hubbard House, where local band City Mouse played to a packed building.

“I was nervous—were we going to have enough food?” MeyersDobler remembered. “We were anticipating 400 to 500 people in attendance and that is, in fact, how many people came.” 

 She and the other organizers were stunned at the local business’ generosity, from providing free drinks and snacks to loaning chairs and tables.

The decision to center the event on Riverfront Drive was deliberate. While much of the Mankato homeless community goes unseen, the location where they are most often viewed is along that particular street and under its bridges.

All in all, the organizers feel that Connections Crawl was a rousing success. The ministry exceeded its goal of $20,000. With part of the funds, they rented a space in the upper level, in the back part of Covenant Family Church. As of October, Connections moved into its current permanent residence.

Koser, Grund, and Valimont are delighted at the great forward strides the ministry has taken and are eager to look ahead. Future dreams include a building completely owned by Connections in order to increase the number of people that can be served at one time, but that is down the road. Right now, they are focused on lending as many helping hands as they can.

“We’ve had families who have had amazing success and who are now stable and have housing,” Koser said. “When they come back in and we are able to celebrate with them, it’s a beautiful thing. It’s something that I feel very honored that I get to do.” RVW

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STORY BY MICHAEL LAGERQUIST

Sister Gladys Schmitz

Sister Mary Jo Welter

Sister Marie Wolf Richarde

Sister Alice Zachmann

Sister Mary Kay Gosch

n October 24, the order of the School Sisters (SS) of Notre Dame celebrated its 186th birthday. It was on that date in 1833 when Caroline Gerhardinger and two other women began a common religious life in vorm Wald, Bavaria. As they responded to their call, the women brought the order to the United States in 1847 and to Mankato in 1865 to teach children at SS. Peter & Paul’s Catholic Church.

Although the way they perform their mission has changed over the decades, it continues as one aimed at providing educational opportunity for those who seek it.

“[Sister Caroline] really founded a congregation believing, I think, that if the world was going to be transformed, it was going to be transformed through the family, and the key person in the family is the woman,” Sister Mary Kay Gosch, campus administrator at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Mankato, said. “So they needed the education of the women.”

“Education is still at the heart of who we are,” Gosch continued. “Even today, as we’ve expanded into different aspects, education is still key.” And it takes many forms at Good Counsel.

On campus, sisters staff and operate the Good Counsel Learning Center, utilizing volunteer tutors—many of them retired educators—to teach the English language and American culture. That is expanded through the Refugee Outreach Program, which includes visiting the homes of those new to this country to help empower them for success.

Sister Richarde Marie Wolfe works with director Sister Dorothy Zeller with people new to this country.

“Our program is all about empowering women to believe in themselves,” Sister Richarde said.

By learning the language, they gain the confidence to talk to teachers and doctors and—eventually— to get a job. “Because that’s their responsibility, they feel. But just to juggle it all is difficult,” said Sr. Richarde.

To assist them, tutors go to immigrants’ homes for two, one-hour meetings each week. When they visit the Good Counsel Learning Center, it’s often as a couple, and as a shared experience.

Education also takes the form of social justice work, with the sisters recognizing and working to eliminate situations of inequality and oppression in various forms.

“Education—and educating ourselves and educating others—is key to what we are,” Gosch

continued. Although that initially was done within the four walls of a classroom, it is now completed within greater society.

Two examples of this wider mission are seen through the work of Sister Gladys Schmitz and Sister Alice Zachmann, two women in their 90s who— though already having lived lives of great social involvement—are still active.

Sister Gladys’ story really begins in Mankato. Her parents moved here—her father from Iowa, her mother from near Swan Lake in Nicollet County— and settled on North Sixth Street. Her family kept her childhood home until 2011. After Sister Gladys hoped to attend Our Lady of Good Counsel—but instead attended Loyola High School, being told she could make the move after one year if she desired. But she continued at Loyola, which was just a few blocks from the family home.

Sister Gladys was pulled between her love of mathematics and what she called a “nagging thing from the time I was a little kid” that was a draw toward religious life. Ultimately, she attended St. Theresa’s, studying mathematics and chemistry. She kept waiting for others to tell her how to use those skills, until one day the truth became known.

“I was aware of some place deep inside of me that I could make a decision [on my own],” she said. “It was the only experience like that I’ve ever had in my life. But it was just as clear as anything: ‘You can make the decision if you want to go or not.’” And she went, choosing to join the sisters who educated her.

With her sister, Joan, she visited Guatemala in 1967. There she gained firsthand experience with death squads, poverty, and social injustice. She started reading and learning more about those situations. She earned her RN degree and moved to Chicago, where she got to know Sister Margaret Ellen Traxler, who was fighting interracial injustice.

“The atomic bombs fell while I was in college, although—at the time I can’t say I was as alert to those things. When I look back, I wish I had,” she said. “I began to be a little more aware of stuff.”

She got to know and work with Rep. Harold Washington, a man whose willingness to listen and help her act greatly influenced her. She participated in acts of civil disobedience, getting arrested many times.

“I never asked for permission [from the School Sisters]. I’d tell them afterwards what I did… I tried to figure out myself what would seem [responsible for the community].”

When she retired at age 68, Sister Gladys 

Sister Mary Jo Welter is the director of Sacred Spaces Ministry at Our Lady of Good Counsel. She spoke of other ministries the sisters participate in:

• Spiritual direction. “It’s a significant ministry in terms of helping people who are looking for deeper meaning,” Sister Mary Jo said. People from the community can come up for a day of reflection, for example, offered during Advent and twice during Lent. The time from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. allows for personal reflection, gathering times for discussion of topics, and a shared meal.

• In the Mankato area, sisters go to the hospital to distribute Holy Communion. They aren’t chaplains but go as volunteers.

• Several sisters read to the blind once a week. They usually read from the newspaper.

• Volunteer with various Mankato area organizations, such as VINE and the ECHO Food Shelf.

• Partners for Affordable Housing. One sister works daily at their free store on campus. It supplies household items, such as furniture, pots and pans, dishes, laundry items, bedding and towels to those setting up a home.

• Clients from MRCI work there daily and, under the direction of a supervisor, clean laundry for the sisters.

• Support of Fair Trade, making sure their vendors use Fair Trade suppliers. Meatless Mondays, with an eye toward the environment.

• Solar power. Lease of some land for a solar park and use it to power Good Counsel facilities.

• Community gardens at the Living Earth Center where many immigrants grow native vegetables. Dementia gardens that improve the quality of life for patients and caregivers.

• Use of the facilities by the Singing Hills Chorus, made up of people with dementia and community partners who rehearse and perform there. Ties in with their involvement with the “Nun Study” on dementia.

Sister Gladys speaks about climate change.

Sister Alice Zachmann protesting March 31st.

 continued to work in the area of social justice. She came back to Mankato, worked with Sister Dorothy Olinger and, in 1993, she started the act for which she may be best known—protesting America’s involvement in the Iraq war by standing in protest in front of the Federal Post Office from noon to 1 p.m. every Wednesday. With few exceptions, she has been there every week. With her most Wednesdays is Sister Alice Zachmann.

Sister Alice, a native of St. Michael, Minnesota, joined the community at age 21. After teaching for 22 years, she went into pastoral ministry in St. Paul. A young priest at St. Stanislaus Church in St. Paul spoke against the war in Vietnam and burned his draft card. “He really was the one that was instrumental and helped get me started on this whole road [of social justice],” she said. She supported the United Farm Workers in their protests against Gallo Wine. She was arrested, but jail time was avoided when someone paid her $50 fine. “I didn’t have enough presence of mind just to sit right down there and say, ‘I refuse to leave here,’ and ‘Give that $50 to some other person.”

Like Sister Gladys, her path led her to Guatemala. The poverty of the people was appalling, she said, but she was also impressed by the strength of the people and the beauty of the country. Following a 30-day retreat to New Orleans, she was asked if she

would be interested in starting a human rights commission in Washington, DC. She accepted and began what would become 30 years working in the nation’s capital.

“When I look back, I don’t know how I did it,” she said of her work with the Guatemala Human Rights Commission/USA. “But it was just the call of the spirit and I really got a lot of support.” When she left the commission in 2002, she volunteered for the Torture Abolition and Survivors Support Coalition for eight years. Finally, at age 84, she decided she had done what she could.

Today, she tries to write five to 10 letters a day to legislators on topics that are brought to her attention. Mostly, she said, they’re concerning immigration and how migrants are being treated. And she protests every Wednesday.

“You don’t know if there’s any real value to that,” she said. “But you do it because you hope it’s doing something. That’s the only thing you can do, I feel.”

Sister Gladys agrees: “I don’t know [if we’ve made a difference]. When we first got down there we used to get a lot of flak. Now, a lot of people go by. If they don’t ignore you totally, they’ll honk or they’ll give you the peace sign. Once in a while somebody will stop and say ‘Thank you.’” RVW

The School Sisters are actively involved in a variety of demonstrations that they feel strongly about.

Deck the Halls

FROM WINDOWS TO WALLS

'TIS THE SEASON

As we cozy up with family and admire our decor, we notice hanging stockings and wrapped-up gifts galore. Our eyes do linger longest on our drapery before we remember how we loved it, when we bought from Blinds & More.

By RUTH KLOSSNER

When Lul Omar visits the homes of new immigrants, she knows—from experience—the challenges they are facing. Like them, Lul herself had the same concerns a decade ago when she first came to this country.

Omar is a parent educator for the Mankato YWCA. In that role, she makes twice a month home visits to families who are relatively new to this country and community. She focuses on families from Syria and Somalia who have children ages from birth to five.

Omar understands the families’ needs.

“Especially when I was new, I didn’t speak the language and I didn’t have a lot of support,” she said. “I had a lot of questions with my first child. I wished for help. I had a lot of concerns. It’s difficult when you

don’t have anybody. It’s good when someone gives you support and feedback.”

She went on, “I understand when I visit new moms. I can tell them, ‘This is normal, it is part of life.’ They need someone. They’re lucky to have someone come to their home through this program. When they’re new and their family is far away, they don’t have a lot of support.”

Language is often the biggest problem for new families.

“I support education. I help moms help their children. I help them teach in the home and to understand the education system,” Lul explained. “They don’t have the language system or the support they

Lul Omar and Suez Hassan with one-year-old Latifa. Omar has worked with Suez for the three years Suez has been in Mankato. Hassan likes the YWCA program. “It helps a lot of moms and kids. I get a lot of support,” she said. Suez has four older children—ages 11, 9, 7, and 5.

When she visits families, Lul Omar takes books, colors, and other items from her bag, sits down, and interacts with the children.

HELPING

need. I explain to the moms how to support the child before they go to school.”

Omar said, “It’s fun to see. I go to the home and do activities with the children and moms. We play, color, read books. The moms and kids enjoy it. We don’t want them to get behind.”

Lul also answers questions, helps the mothers find resources in the community, and who to ask for help. She helps them register for pre-school, meet the teachers, and see the classrooms.

Omar currently works with ten families. Some have one child

under age five, some have three or four. “Some have very large families,” Lul said.

After age five, the children go to school and Lul’s role is finished.

“I see a lot of kids finish this program and be very successful when they go to kindergarten,”

Omar said. “The YWCA does a great job with this parent education for new American families. It builds trust and makes them comfortable.”

She summed up, “Helping people is what I love about my job. I love to help people with what I know.”

Lul was single when she came to America from Somalia in October 2000. She first lived in Denver, Colorado and worked in a big hotel. After two years, she married Abdi Sabrie and moved to Atlanta, Georgia. The couple’s first three children were born there.

The family moved to Mankato in the summer of 2010 and has been here since—“Even with the snow,” Omar said with a smile.

Abdi is a student advocate with TRIO Student Support Services at South Central College.

Soon after coming to Mankato, the YWCA offered Lul a parttime job. The position is still part-time. Though her title has changed over the years, her work remains the same.

Working part-time allows Lul to spend time with her children—daughters ages 16, 14, and 12 and a son, born after they came to Mankato, who is now a kindergartner. Lul also has three stepchildren.

Omar enjoys cooking and trying different foods.

She lived in Rome for 15 years and speaks Italian. RVW

PEOPLE IS WHAT I LOVE ABOUT MY JOB. I LOVE TO HELP PEOPLE WITH WHAT I KNOW.

STORY

rom her day job to her dog’s name, Emily Bruflat has brought music into every aspect of her life. As musical director of First Lutheran Church (FLC) in St. Peter, Emily strives daily to encourage inclusivity, ministry, and musical growth. She is incredibly involved in the local community, both musically and otherwise, even deciding to run for the city council this year.

Emily has been musically inclined almost her entire life. Growing up in Wayne, Nebraska, her childhood was filled with music lessons, competitions, recitals, tests. Emily speaks fondly of her young musical experiences.

“If it was music, I was in it. I played in two jazz bands, sang in the jazz choir, accompanied my high school choir, participated—less enthusiastically—in the marching band, enjoyed every minute of concert band, and played in the pit orchestra or acted in three musicals,” Emily said/

BY TAYLOR KEIMELE

PHOTOS BY RUTH KLOSSNER

She combined music and ministry early, beginning to experiment with the piano at the age of four. All she had was a Little Tyke piano with eight keys and the songs she’d heard from church and began to teach herself by ear all her favorites. This sparked a love that lasted for years, only faltering when pre-teen pressure attempted to change her mind. When high school began, Emily returned to the piano, and also began to master the flute and trombone.

When asked about her formal education, Emily remembered that experience fondly.

“So many teachers had a positive impact on my life. Mr. Kopperud was my middle school band teacher and taught me the trombone and flute. Mrs. Mitchell taught English and led the writing club. Mr. Weber was the high school band teacher and is one of the main reasons I wanted to become a teacher like him. Mr. Spieker was my tenth and twelfth grade English teacher and speech coach and valued mentor. These people, among many others, shaped my life and made me who I am today.

“My official degree from college is bachelor of music in education (BME) from Nebraska Wesleyan University in Lincoln, Nebraska, and I was certified to teach fifth through twelfth-grade band. Piano was my main instrument, and trombone was my secondary instrument. I also took lessons on organ and harpsichord.”

Emily was very busy in college taking music lessons and performing in a variety of band and choir recitals. She also completed an English minor, which she says got her out of the music building from time to time.

“My most memorable college performance happened while I was student teaching. I was selected—along with one other piano major—to play a concerto with the Civic Orchestra. I played the third movement of Rachmaninoff’s ‘Concerto No. 2 in C minor,’ and it was the highlight performance of my entire life,” she said. “My only regret is that the recording equipment failed, and I was never able to listen to it. However, I will always remember that day.

“During my student teaching semester, I got to help with the band kids and also direct the high school choir, and I absolutely fell in love with choral music and directing. It helped solidify my decision to apply for grad school and continue my education. I ended up at Luther Seminary, enrolled in the Master of Sacred Music program. Where my undergraduate degree was all about bands and piano, my graduate degree was all about choirs and organ. It took a lot of work to switch to the organ; they are very different fundamentally. The Luther Seminary degree was a joint program with St. Olaf College, so I took most of my theological courses at the seminary and most of my music classes at St. Olaf. It was a unique program, which prepared me very well for my career in church music.”

Finishing her graduate degree, Emily began to look for a job that would allow her to serve her community, while also encouraging her passion for music. She had played at church throughout college, mostly on a volunteer basis to maintain her amateur status during musical competitions. Emily’s first job was working for St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church in Lincoln, Nebraska. There she gathered plenty of experience. She led Sunday school music, accompanied the choir and praise team, and gained confidence in her skills as a leader. A short time later, the Nebraska Synod led a retreat for college students considering seminary, and after that weekend, Emily knew, without a doubt, that she wanted to go into church music as a full-time career.

“Church music allows me to do a little bit of everything and work with such a wide variety of people and—at the same time—I get to work for a nonprofit organization and serve the church community with my gifts and find others to use their gifts. I can’t imagine doing anything else.”

Music is integral to both church and community, and Emily enjoys marrying the two. There are few denominations that do not use music as a part of their worship.

“I can’t imagine going into a service with only spoken word and no 

What are the first 3 things you’d do if you were president of the United States?

1. Carbon neutrality, ASAP. I’d walk in and say carbon neutral is your goal now. Make it happen now.

2. Reforming and restructuring government and election systems. We should outlaw gerrymandering, improve voter information, and make election day a national holiday.

3. Healthcare and prison reform. Both systems are completely failing, and people should not have to be choosing between going bankrupt and dying.

What would you bring with you on a deserted island?

I definitely think more in terms of a survivalist, just in case. A multi-tool, because it’s practical. It also needs to include a firestarter. A food and water supply would be another first priority as well. My dogs; the youngest, Athena, especially because she would be my protector. Rondo is a 10-year-old Cavalier King Charles and has only recently become a lap dog, so we’d have to bring him. We could also bring our cat, Bad Kitty, who is very loud and opinionated.

Where do you see yourself in the next five years?

I really enjoy my job, but I think it would be neat to do some traveling, maybe a job exchange with another country. I’d also be open to living in another place, but l definitely keep an open mind with what the future holds, even though I’m a very big planner.

If you mastered time travel, when is the first time period you would visit?

The Baroque era, for sure! I’d love to be able to listen to Bach play the organ in person, I think that would be magic.

Are you more introverted, or extroverted?

I am in the middle. Ever so slightly on the introverted side, but I’m very community-driven, and love interacting with people one-on-one. My recharge time is also important to me, and I recently experienced a little stay-cation with my introverted husband. As long as I have a balance, I’m good!

In an effort to further her goals of service, Emily recently was elected to the St. Peter City Council.

What were the main reasons you decided to run for St. Peter’s city council?

I strive to be a person of integrity and to put words into actions. I care a lot about community, voter education, environmental protections, and many other things, and I thought that representing St. Peter would be one way I could use my passions to serve others. Also, I think that it is important that facts are available to the greater public, and I personally make an effort to base my beliefs on facts and not opinions. While I do not and will never have all of the answers, I have a willingness to listen, study, and ask questions when I need more information before making a decision. These are qualities I would want in my elected officials, so I thought I would put my name in. My unofficial slogan has been #bethechange—I would rather DO SOMETHING than sit around and wait for someone else to do it.

Was running for city council what you expected?

I would say that I didn’t really know what to expect. This was my first time running for a public office, so I have been learning as I go. I enjoyed the door knocking and getting to know members of the community, and it was a unique experience to participate in a voter forum a few weeks ago. I was on the speech team in high school, but this was a much different experience for me since I wasn’t able to prepare everything in advance. I am also learning a lot about sales/property taxes, electricity, infrastructure, and other components of how cities are run. It has been a very educational few months for me, and I did expect that going in.

What are the main goals you’d like to accomplish?

First and foremost, I want to be a listener. I want to be available to the community and for people to be able to approach me with a question, comment, suggestion, etc. and to make a difference here. There are some sustainability and conservation efforts that I believe would benefit St. Peter and will advocate for them. The topic of diversity was brought up at our voter forum (and at the school board forum as well). St. Peter is a diverse community. I believe that the city council and the school board should reflect that diversity. I think I am the youngest person to run in our 2019 local elections, and I look forward to representing my generation on the council.

What did your family/ friends think of your decision to run?

I have been overwhelmed with support for this decision, which has been very affirming. I have a good network of people who are behind me. I also realize and acknowledge that I have certain strengths and limitations, as would every member of a council. I think it will be a good experience to work with others and bring my perspectives to the table.

What’s next in this process?

I will attend orientations and get up to speed on what’s going on in the city. I have been attending council meetings and workshops since August, so I already have some grasp of this but still have a lot to learn. I will also continue getting to know the people who work for the city and other members of the council. We have an important task in working together as a team for the City of St. Peter, and I think getting to know my colleagues and having respect for one another is a crucial step in the process.

 music. Lutherans, in particular, have a tradition of German chorales and other hymnody that is important to our identity and heritage. It’s rare to attend a Reformation service without singing “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God.”

In some ways, music in the church is a delicate balance. She explained, “First, music can manipulate human emotions depending on the words being sung or the volume of the music and the day in the church year. It is something that I need to be aware of as a music director and not abuse. Second, people feel very strongly about the music that they love. I need to balance picking some of the old favorite hymns of our heritage, while still allowing newly composed music to be learned and sung as well.”

Emily’s community adores music. St. Peter’s locals have funded performers to give recitals,  supported the worship and musical program through memorial gifts and donations, even offering to perform themselves as a gift to the church.

“It is humbling to see and to be surrounded by so much talent and willingness to be good stewards of those gifts. In many ways, I am a facilitator and an enabler, encouraging others to participate and offer their gifts to God through music,” Bruflat said.

Emily has accomplished many of her goals at FLC, including starting a brass ensemble, a string ensemble, and various other groups. Incorporating Hymn Festivals has also been one of her favorite achievements. Hymn Festivals are thematic programs, including hymns and musical accompaniment. Emily and her team at FLC are in the works of planning the next upcoming festival, tentatively scheduled for August 2020, focused on women in ministry.

When asked about other instances when church and community have come together, Emily calls up memories of a large piece of local history.

“A story comes up often, tied to the 1998 tornado. Among countless homes and other buildings destroyed, the Catholic church was completely demolished. First Lutheran offered to host the congregation until their new church could be constructed, and for a year and a half, the sign outside the building read ‘First Lutheran Catholic Church.’ This time was cherished by both congregations and is still fondly remembered,” Emily said.

Her local community is not the only one that is important to her. Emily and the rest of the FLC team are prioritizing making FLC welcoming to all people, including the LGTBQ+  and refugee communities.

“I am so glad to be a part of a forward-thinking and inclusive denomination, and I appreciate that the organization gives thought to and takes action on challenging and often polarizing topics in the name of justice and love,” she said.

FLC voted to become a Reconciling in Christ (RIC) Congregation in May 2008. First Lutheran celebrates RIC Sunday each January to commemorate this joyful decision to be visibly inclusive to this community.

Emily noted, “We even have rainbow paraments to decorate the sanctuary! FLC belongs to the Southwest Minnesota Synod of the ELCA and is currently the only RIC church in the entire Synod. To me, this says we have come a long way, but we still have a long way to go.”

Congregation, community, and musical collaboration are the pillars of Emily’s life, and she hopes to grow her impact on the people around her.

“I think that, first and foremost, the people are what make up this community, and I just love them. I have developed many friendships and professional relationships with the people here and—with that—comes a sense of stability and trust that makes me love going to work every day,” Bruflat summed up. RVW

“If it sits still, I’ll decorate it. It’s my job around here.”

That’s Carolyn Marti Smith’s definition of her role in retirement. She, her sister Sue Marti, and Sue’s husband Ed Portner share a large rambling house on Summit Avenue in New Ulm. The original part of the house was built in 1933, with additions in 1985 and 2005.

Carolyn occupies one end of the house, Sue and Ed the other. They bought the house together in 2011, as the three started to retire.

“We all knew we wanted to return to New Ulm. I retired first, then Ed, then Sue,” Carolyn said.

“The only place we cross is the kitchen,” Carolyn said with a laugh. “It’s Sue’s domain. She cooks, Eddie fixes things, and I decorate.”

And decorate she does, especially for Christmas. The house is known for its l-o-n-g flowerbeds by the street, its outdoor decorations, and Christmas everywhere inside.

Decorations come from all over the world. Carolyn taught language arts, journalism, drama, debate, and theatre at Department of Defense schools in both Wiesbaden, Germany and in Okinawa. She took her students to various places, among them Egypt. Her final teaching stop was Scottsdale, Arizona.

PHOTOS BY RUTH KLOSSNER & CAROLYN MARTI SMITH

STORY BY RUTH KLOSSNER

Matryoshka dolls and other pieces from Russia.

Sisters Carolyn, Sue, and Mary are from the Eibner family—nieces of Willibald Eibner. The dining room is set with dishes from the old Eibner’s restaurant on Minnesota Street, likely from the Willamina Room on the second floor. Crystal glasses are from Eibner’s and from Wiesbaden, Germany.

The mantel in the dining room is decorated in white and silver.

Garland is wrapped on the stair railing and lighted trees are on the ledge in the upstairs window cove. Each upstairs bedroom has a tree, too.

A Lladro nativity sculpture.

The lighted train reflects Ed Portner’s love of railroading—he’s a retired railroad man.

Carolyn found this wooden storage cabinet at a flea market in Germany.

Even the trains in Eddie’s basement train room are decorated for the holidays—and a tree in the egress window is decorated with lights.

Carolyn calls the dining room tree the “Sparkle Tree” because it features a lot of glitter. She tries to add something new and unique to it each year.

Carolyn bought this Coptic Christian sculpture at the Khan El Khalili bazaar in Cairo, then carried it all over Egypt when she accompanied a school group there.

Handmade Belschnickle Santas from Germany.

 “My mother, Mag Bianchi, was a big decorator for Christmas. Germany is magnificent for Christmas. And, as I traveled, I always looked for Christmas stuff—stuff nobody else has. I like the unusual pieces—I buy a Santa wherever I go—Peru, Egypt, the Orient,” Carolyn said.

Carolyn, Sue, and Eddie like to throw big parties and had two last year. Mary Borstad—Carolyn and Sue’s sister— plays the saxophone and friends bring more friends to provide music for garage parties. Christmas decorations are always put up before Thanksgiving—and were put up extra early this year! RVW

A shelf with the nativity scenes is dedicated to Captain Willibald Bianchi who died in World War II, after he was presented with the Medal of Honor. He died at 28 but Carolyn and Sue “invite him to spend Christmas with them.”

A train item on the “train tree” in the living room.

Deer items on the living room mantel come from both Bangkok and the United States.

The kitchen is “the reason why we bought this house,” Carolyn said. It’s decorated for Christmas, too.

Angels from Nuremberg, Germany.

inter is here and gift-giving season is fast approaching. Some of us are enjoying shopping for our friends and family while others are frantically trying to find the perfect gift, or something that tops the year prior. Many of us get the idea to purchase a loveable pet and give it as a gift.

What could possibly be better than a purring kitten or a wiggly puppy, under the Christmas tree, just like the Hallmark television shows and commercials? Notice those Hallmark clips are anywhere from seconds to 120 minutes long and do not depict the next 10 to 15 years of this pet’s life. A pet as a gift is not the same as a cheese log from Trader Joes. They are unreturnable, do not make good white elephant gifts, and involve years of commitment.

Maybe your kids have been begging for that puppy or kitten for months now and have sworn up and down that they will help with the care. Many parents get the pet with their children in mind, but do not consider that the child may quickly grow bored with their new found friend, or sports schedules change or friends become more of a priority. Now all that responsibility of another family member falls on you.

Maybe you thought your wife or husband would love to be surprised with a new pet, when in reality they don’t have the energy to get through the day as it is. When pets are brought home without everyone in the family being on board, it can cause resentment and the pet can suffer. Resentment can cause frustration, which can turn into anger. We can become short fused with the pet we weren’t planning on caring for all on our own.

Maybe you have decided to get a friend a new pet but, have you

considered their environment and their schedule? Do they run kids to and from sports or school? Do they leave to go on vacations or family camping weekends? Are they an active family? Can they handle this pet’s energy? Do they live an active lifestyle to accommodate that lab puppy? Do they have a teenager (or husband) that leaves clothing on the floor that young puppies can chew up? Is the family financially stable enough to take care of a pet for 10 to 15 years? Again, if this is a surprise that no one expected, you might not get the response you are looking for and that pet may not be in the best home.

After the holidays, there is often an increase—months later, after the “newness” has subsided—in relinquishment of pets to shelters and rescues. After Easter, thousands of rabbits and chicks are abandoned, all because they looked cute in an Easter basket. These animals are living and breathing creatures that require care, love, and respect. Bringing them home needs to be a family—or at the very least, an adult decision.

When adopting or purchasing a pet for the family, be sure to research the breed. If you lead a calm lifestyle and exercise isn’t your idea of fun, then don’t bring home a high-energy dog. If you have small children at home, research breeds that are best with kids. If someone has an allergy, be sure to find a breed that is low allergen. Meet the parents of a pet, if possible. Are they friendly? Adult pets who show aggression or fearful behavior tend to have fearful or aggressive offspring. What are siblings like? Has the pet been well socialized? What is the history of the pet? Make sure you know what you are getting into, how big the pet will get, and what their personalities tend to be like.

Think one hundred times before purchasing a pet as a gift. Make a list and check it twice!

NICOLE LUECK, CVT Minnesota Valley Pet Hospital

Early in my first settled ministry I wrote “to be a minister…” on the first page of a very small journal and tucked it into my purse so I would be ready at all times to jot down phrases and snippets of conversation that would instruct me in my development as a clergywoman—the real stuff that I hadn’t learned in divinity school or internship. To date I’ve gathered 15 bits of wisdom from playwright Anton Chekhov, poet Mary Oliver, transcendentalist writer and thinker Ralph Waldo Emerson, several older, more experienced colleagues, and a couple of mostly anonymous people quoted by one or another of my colleagues.

Times change. Somewhere along the way to my 25th year of ordained ministry, the era of social media came upon us. The most recent entry in my “to be a minister…” journal is 10 years old. These days most of my fresh insights into ministry come from observing mostly younger colleagues minister to their congregations via Facebook posts and listening in as those same colleagues reflect on the nature of ministry in posts on closed, collegial Facebook groups. I can always—well, usually—scroll back and find what I’ve read. I’m less compelled to preserve the wisdom in a form I can carry with me. Or, perhaps, it’s just age and accumulated experience that makes the scribbling less urgent. The little journal I imagined would be battered and full by now—an irreplaceable trove of inspiration—is more than half empty still, and in pretty good condition for having been transferred from purse to purse to purse for nearly a quarter-century. My search for the one definitive definition that would transform me into a wise, compassionate minister, with a saving love/justice/redemption message, a survivable work/home life balance, and enviable personal/ professional boundaries was unique to neither me nor my profession. Expectant parents subscribe to blogs and podcasts and pin a zillion ideas for birthday parties and first day of school celebrations and solid foods introduction schedules. New managers line their shelves with books, or likewise subscribe to blogs and podcasts, about whatever it is managers need to know. Folks lucky enough to see retirement on their horizon start

attending seminars about finances and finding meaning and purpose post-career.

Most of us probably pick up one or two—maybe even three—pieces of solid, practical advice. But in the end, we learn to minister or parent or manage or farm or teach by ministering, parenting, managing, farming, or teaching. Assisted along the way by the helpful neighbors and colleagues, and resilient congregations, kids, employees, and students who flourish with attention, even bumbling attention.

The most precious gem in my little journal is one that you would do well to put in your own notebook or wallet or on your refrigerator or pin to your wall—whatever your calling, profession, career, age or stage of life. Ironically, or perhaps fittingly, it was offered by a professional actor who coached me on my public presentation.

“You don’t have to be a minister; you just have to be Lisa.” He repeated it, not listening to my protests, twice a week, for weeks on end. Until I stopped protesting long enough to hear the truth in his words: I am a minister when I fully inhabit my gifts, talents, education, experience and unique foibles and perspective, forgetting models and ideals and how-tos.

I need reminders sometimes, still. Just this morning my mentor advised that I pay attention to my life, my purpose, and direction, assuring me that then the pieces I’ve been worrying about for my daughter, the congregation I serve, and the organizations whose boards I serve, will fall into place. When I’m Lisa—wholly, mindfully Lisa—I’m the parent, the minister, the community leader I seek to be.

I promise you the same is true for you. You don’t have to be some image of a business owner or spouse or parent or employee or teacher or attorney—even if the image is one you’ve long held in your own mind as the standard you wish to meet. All you have to be is you. When you are— wholly, mindfully, even joyfully—all around you will flourish.

THE REVEREND LISA M. DOEGE Minister, Nora Unitarian Universalist Church Hanska

It’s finally December. The last month of this decade. A good time to pause and think of all that we have to be grateful for.

In my opinion, feeling grateful only happens when you are “in the moment.” When life is grand and everything’s coming up roses, it’s so easy to be grateful. But, when times are tough and it’s uncomfortable or painful, and you are staying in the moment, noticing that you are growing—this is when gratitude becomes a difficult muscle you are flexing.

This past summer I had the amazing luck of being able to travel with my friend who is a flight attendant. She has been doing this job for a long time, so I got to fly at her seniority level, using her companion pass. I flew first class, in the sleeping pods, so many times that I knew the menu by heart. It was the very best summer of my entire decade, and I made sure that I was staying in the moment so that I was feeling grateful with every fiber of my being.

My level of gratitude was sky-high, (pun intended), and being grateful was easy!

It’s easy to feel grateful when life feels abundant. My friend from Barcelona calls this, “Vivir en abundancia,” and my Dutch friend calls it, “Overvloedig leven.” A life of abundance or an overloaded life. No matter the language, abundance is the best. Lack, not so much. Unless you think of lack as a time to evaluate what true abundance looks and feels like for you.

Remember I said that being grateful comes after you’ve exercised the muscle of gratitude? When life throws you a tragedy, how can you be grateful? What does it take to see disease, death, or long-term suffering as something to be grateful for?

It takes an understanding that you have one life. This time you have on earth is finite. It also means that you understand that in an instant, your life can change. It’s the desire for a positive change that keeps us hopeful. The strength of our faith that leads to feeling grateful despite the tragedy. Just like exercise to grow our physical muscles is painful at first, gaining strength in our sense of gratitude also begins with struggle. A bodybuilder

finds ease in lifting because she has practiced. A grateful person finds ease in seeing the positive growth in the tragic side of life because she, too, has practiced.

The easiest way to begin a gratitude practice is to sit quietly and think or pray thankfully about the blessings in your life. Start with the big things and then think of all the small things. Like the comfy pillow you put your head on at night, or the seemingly magic of electricity that lights your darkness. Keeping a gratitude journal gives you the opportunity to look back at all the blessings you have when you’re in a funk. I practice both, not always being consistent, but my gratitude muscle has been developed so that I am profoundly grateful for the smallest good things, and the challenging things.

When we are in strong physical shape, it is easy to tackle the difficult tasks, and it’s the same with gratitude. You’ll find it easier to see the hardships of life as waves and not solid, everlasting obstacles. You’ll be able to have peace in the understanding that you’re growing and then you’ll look for the things to be grateful for. Understanding in every moment that “this too shall pass” helps us to deal with the difficult times and should also give us the understanding that savoring every good moment is important because those times will pass also.

I met my Dutch friend on one of those first-class flights. We talked about how grateful we felt at being in the seats we were in, and we made a pact that we would never take that good fortune for granted. I am absolutely thrilled each time I get a message from this friend, sending a selfie holding up a first-class glass of champagne and toasting another magical transatlantic flight. It has become a ritual that we share that reminds us of how blessed we really are, and not because of the position on the plane, but in the awareness of our good fortune, and the bond of friendship that gratitude created.

My wish for you this month is that you take some time to be grateful for everything you have gone through in the past decade and that you plan to see everything in the next decade as experiences to be grateful for.

HEIDI ANNE NELSON OLMA Life Coaching One Life Make it Awesome

TRAVEL WITH WOMEN

OUR NEXT TRIP IS TO FRANCE IN JANUARY, 2020

AMSTERDAM – April 18-25, 2020

SWITZERLAND – June 20-27, 2020

IRELAND – August 15-22, 2020

FILLING PR ESCRIPTIONS FOR HOLIDAY TRAVEL

By Jairus McBride, Pharm D, Pharmacist at Mankato Riverfront Hy-Vee

Getting ready to go on vacation? Planning a week or two away from home for the holidays? Whether you are traveling near or far - for a few days or for a few months - filling your medications while you are away can be a concern.

Here are some tips from your Hy-Vee pharmacist to make filling your medicine while traveling a little less difficult:

1. Two weeks before leaving on your trip, make a list of the medications that you are going to run out of while away. These are the ones you need to now focus on.

2. Before leaving for any trip in which you may run out of medication, see if you can refill it at your Hy-Vee pharmacy to avoid running out while away. Some insurance plans allow for what they call a “vacation supply override.” This means that your pharmacy can refill your meds early (before you run out) in order to allow for your vacation plans. A simple call to your insurance provider could determine if your plan allows for this.

3. Don’t wait until the very last moment to try to transfer your medication while on vacation.

4. If at all possible, try to find a pharmacy within the same “chain” that you use back home. This isn’t absolutely necessary, but it may make things a bit easier.

5. If you are leaving the country on a trip, then you almost certainly must bring enough medication with you as your order for medicine will not be valid outside the U.S. In this case, you must refill it before leaving for a sufficient quantity to cover your travel time and you may even have to pay for this supply if your insurance does not allow for such an early refill.

6. Will you be visiting friends or family? Ask them which local HyVee pharmacy, if any, they use and get the phone number for that pharmacy before leaving on your trip.

Holiday food beckoned. Instead of fasting, rely on your body’s natural ability to cleanse, and help it along with nutritious lowcalorie, high-fiber foods, plus plenty of water.

The liver, kidneys and intestines are the body’s detoxification tools to remove chemicals and food additives, filter toxins from blood and eliminate waste. To offset the holiday overindulging, focus on whole foods that are low-calorie and high in insoluble fiber and water content (raw cruciferous vegetables especially) to help flush the digestive system. Foods high in antioxidants and those containing probiotics also help.

FOODS TO AVOID

ADDED SUGARS: soft drinks, candy, cookies, candy, cookies, cakes, pies, fruit drinks

SOLID FATS: butter, stick margarine, cream, fried chicken with skin, sausage, hot dogs

ALCOHOL: it takes about 1 hour for the liver to process one standard alcoholic drink. Excess alcohol taxes the liver

2 10 10 Servings Prep Total

ALL YOU NEED

1 1/2 c Hy-Vee frozen unsweetened mango chunks

1 medium banana, peeled

1 (5.3 oz.) container Hy-Vee vanilla Greek yogurt

1 c. Hy-Vee coconut water

1/3 c. Hy-Vee orange juice

ALL YOU DO

1 2 3

FRUITS

antioxidants fight cell damage caused by free radicals

Foods: apples, blackberries, blueberries, cantaloupe, cranberries, grapefruit, mangoes, oranges, pears, plums, strawberries, watermelon

VEGETABLES

the antioxidants fight cell damage from free radicalsunstable molecules caused by ultraviolent light, air pollution and tobacco smoke.

Foods: arugula, bok choy, Brussel’s sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, collard greens, kale, rutabaga, asparagus, beets, bell peppers, spinach, tomatoes

LEGUMES

required for hormone production, immune response and to build and repair cells.

Foods: black-eyed peas, black beans, cannellini beans, chickpeas, kidney beans, lentils, soybeans

WATER

allows kidneys to eliminate waste from the body

What You Need: about 15 cups per day for men, 11 cups for women

WHOLE GRAINS

fiber promotes nutrient absorption and eliminates toxins in the stool. The digestive tract uses probiotics from fiber for growth of beneficial bacteria, which in turn, aid digestion for quick waste removal.

Foods: barley, brown rice, farro, millet, oats, quinoa, whole wheat

Place frozen mango, banana, yogurt, coconut water, and orange juice in a blender.

Cover and blend until smooth.

Divide smoothie between 2 (12 oz. each) glasses. Serve immediately.

Nutrition facts per serving: 220 calories per serving, 1g Total Fat, 0g Saturated Fat, 0g Trans Fat, 0mg Cholesterol, 55mg Sodium, 47g Total Carbohydrates, 4g Dietary Fiber, 36g Total Sugars, 1g Added Sugars, 7g Protein.

Holly Ellison, RD, LD Riverfront Hy-Vee Dietitian

507.625.1107 | HEllison@hy-vee.com

The holiday season means it’s time for gathering family and friends for food and celebration. To make the process easier, incorporate recipes that can feed a crowd without lots of exotic, hard-to-find ingredients or long, laborious prep and cook times. These recipes for Hearty Roasted Winter Vegetables featuring Aunt Nellie’s Whole Pickled Beets and Caprese Bean and Salami Salad with READ 3 Bean Salad, for example, are ideal side dishes for holiday gatherings with enough to go ’round for everyone at the table. Plus, if you’re heading to a holiday potluck, they’re perfect for bringing along to share with the whole crew and versatile enough to be paired with a variety of main courses. Plus, the Caprese Bean and Salami Salad can also stand in as an appetizer. Find more holiday recipes at auntnellies.com and READsalads.com.

Recipe courtesy of “The Reluctant Entertainer”

by Blue Skye Mercantile

This Cheese Ball Recipe is great for that upcoming holiday gathering. With cream cheese and goat cheese along with tart cranberries, chives, and roasted blood orange pecans, this cheese ball hits your palette from all angles. It would be especially delish with pretzel crackers for a hit of salt as well. Stop into the Mercantile for the Blood Orange Olive Oil and the Sharp White Cheddar Cheese!

- Lisa and Karina

Cranberry Blood Orange

Roasted Pecan Goat Cheese Ball

 16 oz cream cheese, softened

 4 oz goat cheese

 8 oz sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded finely

 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives

 Large Drizzle Blood Orange

Olive Oil

 ½ cup roughly chopped dried cranberries



½ cup chopped raw pecans

 Assorted crackers

Preheat oven to 250 degrees. Place pecans on baking sheet and generously drizzle with Blood Orange Olive Oil and toss to combine. Roast for 5 minutes, give the pecans a quick stir, and roast another 5 minutes. Remove from oven and cool completely. Combine the cream cheese and goat cheese and mix thoroughly to combine. Add shredded cheese and chives and stir until thoroughly combined. Use a spatula to scrape the mixture into a ball, cover and chill for 15 minutes. Place cranberries and roasted pecans in shallow dish. Roll Cheese ball in cranberries and pecans. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Serve with assorted crackers.

MANKATO PET CREMATION

WE UNDERSTAND HOW

IT IS WHEN A PET DIES

WE’RE HERE FOR YOU

At Mankato Pet Cremation we provide options to help ease the way of losing a pet. We offer cremation services for pets of all sizes. Choose from either private or group cremation options.

• 12 Gauge Salute for gun enthusiasts $99 for two shells

• Certified working and service animals only $99

Pelvic pain among women is common and often goes undiagnosed. According to the National Institutes of Health, one study showed about 15 percent of women of childbearing age in the U.S. reported having pelvic pain that lasted at least six months. Yet pelvic pain affects women of all ages—teenagers to post-menopausal.

• Special pricing for cats

Remains returned in just 1-5 days • Private $199 • Standard $149

& Cats $99

X-Large $249

Did you know physical therapy can help? Physical therapists are movement experts and can treat the symptoms of pelvic pain. We can help women reduce their pain by improving physical function. We start with a medical history review and physical examination. We can diagnose and identify the causes, among them joint issues, muscle dysfunction and nerve involvement. Next, we develop a prognosis and treatment plan to help women optimize their quality of life.

Physical therapists can be part of a multidisciplinary team to treat pelvic pain and work closely with patients’ primary care providers and gynecologists.

Pregnancy and childbirth can affect pelvic muscles and joints. A shift in the pelvic organs (known as prolapse), pelvic joint problems, muscle weakness in the pelvic floor, changes in the muscles that control the bowel and bladder, and scar tissue from C-sections can all play a role.

A physical therapist can help treat pelvic pain and symptoms caused by endometriosis, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), chronic urinary tract infections (UTI), painful bladder syndrome and menstrual pain. Other conditions commonly treated by physical therapists include tailbone pain, SI (sacroiliac) dysfunction, pregnancy and postpartum pain, pain during intercourse, pelvic organ prolapse and muscle spasms in the pelvic floor. The pelvic floor is a complex group of muscles, connective tissue, and nerves on the bottom of the pelvis that can become dysfunctional. Pelvic floor dysfunction can cause incontinence, leaking, urinary frequency and urgency, constipation, pain during sex, and inability to sit for normal periods of time. These issues can be treated by a physical therapist with specialized training.

Based on exam results, a physical therapist will customize a treatment plan. Physical therapy can help women identify and isolate the appropriate muscles—pelvic floor, abdominals and diaphragm—that can cause pelvic pain. We teach women how to coordinate body movements and breathing for daily activities as well as create mindfulness for pelvic floor function. Sometimes it means correcting posture. Manual therapy interventions are sometimes necessary to treat painful muscles.

Physical therapy often includes a personalized exercise program. For the pelvic floor, women are taught exercises to either stretch or strengthen the affected muscles and work up to exercises that improve motor control. The exercises help retrain the muscles to work better together.

Since pelvic floor dysfunction can sometimes impact the bladder, we address fluid intake, normal bladder function, bladder irritants, urge suppression, breathing strategies, and pressure management when necessary.

It often takes up to six months of consistently performing a home program for women to see results of physical therapy and at-home exercises. A physical therapist will often see a patient once a week for three to four weeks, then less frequently for another two to three months. This is tailored to each individual.

If you are experiencing pelvic pain, talk to your health care provider. Physical therapy can help reduce the pain and symptoms to make life better.

KRISTIN LINGEN, PT, DPT Mankato Clinic, Physical Therapy

Dr. Angela Schuck Dr. Keith Flack

dult cancer patients have unique physical health needs, but they also have unique emotional and mental health needs.

The emotional side of cancer—things like dealing with the stress of a diagnosis, self-care during treatment, accessing financial and legal resources, or locating support—all can affect a patient’s ability to cope and stick to a treatment plan.

To help meet these needs, social workers can help navigate various resources that support and encourage families. For example, if a patient is having trouble finding a ride to medical appointments, a social worker can connect the patient to transportation resources. Removing some of the stress and barriers getting to and from appointments enables the patient to focus on healing. Social workers are an important part of the care team and can coordinate services, educate, or listen to concerns during and after a hospital stay, or during treatment. Here are some tips for emotional well-being for cancer patients and caregivers:

Talk to someone who is not a family member.

While it can seem overwhelming to meet with a clinical social worker, these experts are trained to help on a one-time, shortterm, or long-term basis. By allowing yourself the opportunity to talk to someone other than friends or family, you can get a trusted person to talk to while allowing your family to “just be family.”

Continue with daily activities, but modify if necessary. Modifying normal tasks, habits and activities is not failure. It’s good self-care. Maybe you can’t camp for a full week far away, but could you camp for a couple of days closer to home?

Plan ahead.

If you know you might need transportation or could benefit from a program such as Meals on Wheels, do some research ahead of time or enlist the help of a friend who enjoys planning. Not only can this help you avoid a last-minute scramble, but also checking on community resources in advance can help you understand your choices, lower your stress, give you peace of mind, and give you some control at a time things around you may seem out of control.

Find support that works for you.

For some people, it’s really important to connect with others going through the same thing. Support could be a monthly in-person group, a one-time class, or ongoing education about self-care, caregiving, nutrition or legal resources. For others, it may be important to explore short-term counseling with a clinical social worker.

Balance in-person and online support.

At certain times during treatment, there could be physical limitations or your immune system could be compromised, making an online community a good source of support. Remember that this may be helpful in the short term, but being social is key to emotional well-being.

Tap your community.

There are so many wonderful community resources that are here to help. Services can be practical, provide an emotional boost, or offer opportunities for social interaction. A good place to start is the American Cancer Society website at cancer.org. Enter your zip code, and the site will generate a list of resources near you. The site also can connect caregivers.

Reach out.

Contacting a social worker at your local cancer center is always welcome. Remember, reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness. Even though you may want to be independent asking for help is healthy.

Cancer Support Opportunities Look Good Feel Better

A free program designed for women dealing with hair loss and skin changes from chemotherapy and radiation.

Mankato and Fairmont Cancer Support Groups

Compassionate, cancer-related education and support for family and friends.

Mankato, Fairmont and New Prague

Learn more at mayoclinichealthsystem.org and click on “classes and events.”

SHARON DEXHEIMER Clinical Social Worker Mayo Clinic Health System

BY LORI MATHIOWETZ

As the holidays near and I become more and more mindful of the many, significant social causes, charities, and general “do-gooding” there is to be done, I can’t help but be consumed by an important something that has been on my mind for quite some time. The Memoji on my iPhone looks nothing like me. I mean, not even close.

Yes, yes, I know there are more crucial world events and social causes for me to be worried about. But this is something I’m currently asked to pay $1,000 for, so I’m compelled to bring awareness to this inequity.

Building on last year’s Animoji—a selection of animals you could animate and send to your friends for absolutely no reason whatsoever (this was definitely not something the public asked big tech to create for us)—the Memoji is touted as a “3D map of your unique facial geometry.”

C’mon, Siri, that’s what you think I look like? I preferred my Animoji. At least the little monkey was cute; I didn’t expect it to be accurate.

I swear I’m not a Luddite. I got over my fingerprint-hacking paranoia—a little—now that big tech did away with the button. But apparently, my fingerprint wasn’t enough. Now, it seems Apple wants me to surrender my very sense of self. Pretty soon they’ll be asking for my voice. Oh wait....

All this facial recognition crap started with Snapchat, which, from the beginning, I asserted was definitely created by the government to store all of our images in the Homeland Security database. Every day we are living the fantastical super-technology of 1980s sci-fi and futuristic movie dramas like it’s NBD. The stuff of Fahrenheit 451 and 2001: A Space Odyssey is totally coming true.

With all this new facial recognition tech, with just my mug, I can now

perform a variety of activities. Like unlocking Apps that allow me to “securely” transfer money around simply by staring into the endless abyss of my precious screen. I guess most of us were already constantly staring at it anyways, so we may as well get something productive done while staring into our fathomless chasm of information. Without the chaotic reminders of my phone calendar dinging away at me incessantly, I wonder what my life would be like? Why isn’t there a filter for that? You know, for my life!

I really can’t hate on my pocket personal assistant for its organizational and efficiency capabilities. If I can get more done faster, then I can have more quality time with the people I love—so long as I set down the screen and walk away from it.

Additionally, whether we like it or not, technology has made us a smaller, more-connected world. That I can appreciate.

If I may, I’ll wax philosophical about it. Perhaps the hidden brilliance of the Memoji is precisely its inaccuracy. After all, the person we are inside of that screen, out there in virtual reality, isn’t always a very good representation of the person we are here on planet earth. I mean if I’m honest, I have the ability to manually add in every laugh-line, gray hair, and acne scar to the tiny animated “me” inside my phone. For some strange reason I don’t take the time to add in those pesky little details. Well I’ll be....

Kudos big tech, you rightly predicted our habits and preferences yet again. I’ve had a change of heart. Now that I’ve further considered it, most of us would likely prefer our phone not reflect back to us what the “3D map of our unique facial geometry” really looks like staring down into the screen of everlasting delight.

BY CINDY HAUGLAND tidytightwads.com

I once read that 45 percent of Americans would prefer to skip Christmas? Really? I’m guessing it has to do with increasing pressure we put on ourselves, coupled by our busy schedules and lack of resource management. There’s only so much time, money, and/or energy we can tap into, but why approach the holidays with this much trepidation?

If, each year, you promise yourself that you’ll stay calm and truly enjoy the season, then stop crowding all the enjoyable activities into an already tight schedule. It’s a recipe for conflict, headaches, and possibly heartaches.

Instead, let’s consider your over-inflated “to do” list. Are there tasks on that list you could do without? Here’s an easy way to find out.

Make a second list titled, “It wouldn’t be Christmas without…” and write down all the traditions, foods, and activities that make the holidays special for you. Now ask those closest to you—your spouse, children, or grandchildren—for their ideas. For example, if you have “take everybody sledding” on your list, but don’t see it on anyone else’s list, have a conversation. You may find out that it’s something nobody enjoys, but does anyway, just to please you or thinking it’s something you love. Ditch that activity and replace it with one that more people consider indispensable for a great holiday gathering.

Don’t be afraid to amend traditions. If hosting the family dinner is on everyone’s list, make it easier on yourself by simplifying. You tell everyone you’re making the main course, and ask each family member to bring something for dinner to accompany your dish.

Try not to fall into the “We’ve always done it this way trap.” Chances are, any changes you make won’t be as big of a deal to others as you think they’ll be. Likewise, recall the traditions that make your holidays glow and make sure they’re front and center. Use some of the time you’ve saved to do something this Christmas that you’ve always dreamed of.

The holiday season is fast approaching and the cold air has started to settle in. We find ourselves searching for cozy blankets and warm fires and enjoying the colors of the changing seasons.

The holidays can build happy memories with the people we love the most. It also brings on some angst for what was or what we think should be as we embrace the season.

Gratitude during this holiday season can take place during the quiet rumble or before all have awakened for the day. When you have a lot on your calendar, trying to check as many things off your lists as possible may make it more difficult to pause in the midst of the mayhem to focus on being thankful.

In the busyness of our days, cultivating what brings you gratitude is a good first step to reduce anxiety, improve your relationships, improve selfesteem, and boost resiliency.

This holiday season, try to spend some time focusing on the things that you have, than what you do not have. Think about the simple things like the sun shining, coffee in the morning, a great pair of shoes (my favorite), or be grateful for the big things like your health, a good friend or your family, to name a few. This does not have to be a chore but, perhaps, a push to spend more time thinking about things that you have taken for granted or did not realize the peace or glimmer of happiness it might give you day to day.

Gratitude absolutely changes the trajectory of how you show up at work, home, with friends, and with new people that you meet every day. Your kids are also watching what you are doing and saying.

Reflect on how we can pass on the practice of being grateful to our kids. This might be a dinnertime ritual—between all activities—when we have a night or two that we are all able to sit down around the table. It can be how we project as adults the way we talk about the things that we are thankful for that resonates with our kids. Practicing gratitude builds our youth’s resiliency, too. When they say thank you, give them a verbal kudo in hopes that they will continue the gesture of being thankful when you are not around. If you have younger kids, give them visuals of writing or drawing one thing a day they are thankful for (recess, friends, pets, etc.).

I saw a visual recently where you have your child and other family members write something they are thankful for each day on a pumpkin for the month of November and keep it on the table as a centerpiece. Every month you could use a different visual to practice gratitude. For older kids, it is always a good reminder for them how much they matter to you and they, too, should text, write, or talk about things they are grateful for. You can also consider coming up with a list of things, people, situations, and concepts to be thankful for and writing them down. For example, think about someone who makes you laugh, a cherished photo, your favorite season, your favorite activity, your happy place, or your favorite activity outside.

When you look for things to be thankful for, your anxieties start to dissipate. Research shows that you can change the wiring of your brain in a positive way by interjecting the things you are grateful for, therefore improving your health and happiness.

Have a great holiday season, take time to pause, be grateful and take care of you.

MOLLY FOX, LICSW Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker Lead School Social Worker, Mankato President, Minnesota School Social Work Association

LUCKY #7

1990 had Ginny Miller seeing red. A little red Toyota Corolla, that is. Because of her positive experiences with “super seller” Laurie Danberry, it was the start of something big. She’s been a loyal Toyota customer for 30 years.

The outstanding customer service, and reliability of Toyota vehicles had Ginny coming back six more times, most recently purchasing her seventh Corolla!

Laurie makes car shopping so much fun, I tell my friends to talk to Laurie! This is number 7 Corolla for me!

— Ginny Miller

Hat comes in several colors and we love it paired with the North Mankato top. Vest t can be dressed up or down, and MN license plate necklace is a must for local flavor. All great gifts!

These natural stone stretch bracelets are locally made, and we all want to support local businesses and artists, right? Essential oils can be dripped onto the porous stone bracelets, for a calming effect during the sometimes stressful holiday season!

This black infinity scarf adds pizzazz with a hint of sparkle. Add black fleece-lined mittens, and cute red hat and you look like the holidays!

Inspirational signs make a wonderful gift under the tree and the prayer boxes would make a fun stocking stuffer or a great gift for a friend!

Animal print is so on trend this season. These fun shoes have all the colors—black, grey, and brown, pair a pair with almost anything. Comfortable too!

BY AMBER BANNERMAN Sota Sisters Boutique North Mankato

These purses come in numerous colors...there's sure to be one to match your holiday look! Wear them crossbody, over-the-shoulder, as a wristlet, or even as a fanny pack—which are back in style, yours should have one!

This "liquid leather" jacket is a hot look for those cool holiday parties! You could wear it for a Christmas gathering, on New Year's Eve, or for a fun night out on the town. The jacket can be zipped all the way up to give it a different look, or halfway as shown. It comes in other colors, is comfortable, has stretch, and is classy.

Just for kicks, don some shorty boots with tights or a long skirt. Top with dressy tank and cool denim. Now, who’s ready to party?

How could any young girl resist getting dressed to the nines in this quirky combo of reindeer print and plaid? Let’s dance!

Surprise with the unexpected! Beautiful snake pattern that fits like a second skin. Pair with some truly unique frayed ankle jeans. Nothing but wow-factor!

You’ll be the sparkle in everyone’s eye with this shimmering-off-the shoulder number. Dress it up or down. Perfect color for holiday get-togethers.

BY TAWNEE HUIRAS White Willow New Ulm

MISSION MOMENT

From YWCA Mankato

THANK YOU, GREATER MANKATO FROM ALL OF US AT YWCA

grandchildren. Through girls’ programming, we take an active interest in demonstrating to these girls how healthy people behave, think and act. When these girls become their own best advocates and practice empathy towards others, they have a positive impact on their future, as well as the future communities in which we all live.

The gift from women who lead authentically:

Support comes in many forms. Financial support is critical to the work of all non-profits. Your gifts power every aspect of our mission. Business partners help us share what we do, and provide vital services. Equally critical is the support that doesn’t begin with a dollar sign—volunteers. Volunteer support might begin with a pair of sneakers, an early alarm clock, a persuasive cup of coffee, the push of an elevator button, or “Welcome, and thank you for coming!” Please know that your gifts make a positive impact, and return a gift to you, too.

Here are some of the gifts that go back into our community:

The Gift from a New American Family: Because immigrants and refugee families do not always have access or insight to the traditional role of education in the United States, students of these families may enter their first years of education at a disadvantage. When a parent has the opportunity to work with Home Visitors through Parents as Teachers, they receive guidance on how to best foster their role as their child’s best teacher, therefore closing the academic gap. When parents know how to prepare their children for traditional education, their children enter kindergarten academically prepared. When a parent has the tools needed to set their children up for success, they also contribute to a better education for their children’s peers.

The Gift from a Girls Programming Participant: When you coach a third grader to think with positive intent, to effectively listen to others, to set personal boundaries, and love activity for the sake of enjoyment—you’re giving a gift to your future self. These girls are your future employees, managers, surgeons, elected officials, researchers, and take on other crucial roles that will directly influence your life and the lives of people you care about. She might just be the mother of your future

An empowered woman who has found her strengths, defined her values and knows how to navigate resources becomes a resource herself. A woman in the Elizabeth Kearney Leadership Program graduates with a further defined sense of purpose, whether or not she is in a position of authority. She takes her strengths to her home, her community, her work, the ballot box, and anywhere she chooses to influence. Everyone benefits from her brilliance and insights of a selfdetermined woman.

The power of an anti-racist society:

Eliminating racism is not a gift. It is a demand, and it requires change at every level. We don’t aim for racial justice to be a branch of what we do; it is the root, and listening is a great way to start. We are grateful for every person that shares the gift of their stories through “It’s Time to Talk” conferences and workshops. We are especially grateful for women of color who share their stories, and those who say “do better,” often times at great personal risk. The courage to speak out can be the gift that opens new eyes to the nature of white privilege. Those who have and understand their privilege can use it as a power tool to deconstruct the non-white disadvantage that pulls down not only people of color, but all of society. We are grateful for all who use their intellect to recognize and call out prejudice, racist behavior, misconceptions, harmful policies and racist systems.

The gift of the future:

In this year of change, we also thank both staff within our doors and those who now contribute their talent elsewhere. No matter the shape of YWCA Mankato, our commitment to every aspect of our mission remains strong. As we move forward in 2020, we look forward to another year of serving organizations who entrust us to train their employees, families who entrust us to coach their children, professionals who share their skills, and individuals that seek to develop their own. Thank you to a community that cheers, honors, learns, listens to hear truths, and shares their own. It is truly an honor to serve Greater Mankato!

This giving season, we at YWCA Mankato would like to express our sincere thanks to an especially generous community. Our many volunteers, businesses, supportive sponsors, grantors, Empowerment Society, and other individuals support our mission of “Eliminating Racism and Empowering Women.”

DEENA SCHUSTER Administrative Coordinator

YWCA Mankato

TO HAVE YOUR EVENT LISTED

E-mail Ruth Klossner at cowladyruth@gmail.com by the 10th of the month. Listings are generally for events that are free to the public, or are fundraisers. Listings will be published as space allows and at the discretion of the editor.

Now thru Fri, Dec 13

• St. James Winter Carnival, downtown, St James. Parade 5:30 Dec 13. Info: 507-375-3333 or discoverstjamesmn.com.

Now thru Tues, Dec 31

• Holiday Lights in Motion, Hwy 4 N, Sleepy Eye, 5-10 pm. Info: 507-794-4731 or sandy@sleepyeyeholidaylights.org.

• Havana Lights Drive-thru Christmas Light Display, 2048 Havana Rd, Owatonna, 5-10 pm. Info: 507-213-1849 or havanalights@outlook.com.

• Kiwanis Holiday Lights, Sibley Park, 900 Mound Ave, Mankato. 5-9 pm Sun-Thurs, 5-10 Fri-Sat. Info: 507-385-9129 or kiwanisholidaylights.com.

Fri, Dec 6

• Christmas Boutique, Parade & Fireworks, downtown, Le Sueur, 4 pm. Info lesueurchamber. org, 507-665-2501 or julieb@ lesueurchamber.org.

• Holiday Delights, downtown plaza, Fairmont, 5-10 pm. Info: 507-235-5547.

Fri & Sun, Dec 6 & 8

• Crow River Singers Winter Concert. Fri 7 pm at Vineyard UMC, 1395 S Grade Rd SW, Hutchinson; Sun 2 pm at Peace Lutheran Church, 400 Franklin St SW, Hutchinson. Info: hollymd55@hotmail.com or info@ hutchinsonarts.org.

Fri-Sun, Dec 6-8 & Thurs-Sun, Dec 12-15

• ‘Peter Pan,’ Paradise Community Theatre, 321 Central Ave N, Faribault. 7:30 Fri-Sat, 2 pm Sun. Info: visitfaribault.com/ calendar/.

Fri & Mon, Dec 6 & 9

• Friends of the Library Wreath, Garland & Stockings Auction, Public Library, 509 S Lincoln St, Redwood Falls, 8 am. Info: 507616-7420.

Sat., Dec. 7

• Mankato Holiday Craft & Vendor Show, Nat’l Guard Armory, 100 Martin Luther King Dr,

GO. BE. DO. CON NECT.

Mankato, 9 am-4 pm. Info: Facebook or 507-276-1650.

• Christmas in Lake Crystal, Rec Center, 621 W Nathan St, Lake Crystal. Info: 507-726-6088 or lcacc56055@gmail.com.

• Christmas Craft Fair, Community Center, 300 Railroad St, Courtland, 10 am-2 pm. Info: 507-217-7052 or Facebook.

• ‘The Nutcracker,’ State Street Theater, 1 N State St, New Ulm, 1 & 5 pm. Info: statestreetnewulm.org or statestreettheater@gmail.com.

• Arli-Dazzle Christmas Market, Middle/High School, 208 W Douglas St, Arlington, 9 am-3 pm. Info: 507-380-1047 or richsoil@icloud.com.

• Main Street Christmas, Library Square Park, Hutchinson, 1-4 pm. Info: hutchdtassoc@outlook.com or 320-234-5652.

• Bells on Belgrade, Lower North Mankato, 3-6 pm. Info: businessonbelgrade@gmail.com or 507-388-1062.

• Homespun Holiday, Waconia. Info: ksites@destinationwaconia.org or 952-442-5812.

• Christmas Open House & Bake Sale, Watonwan Co Hist Soc, St. James, 10 am-1 pm. Info: 507380-7024.

• Santa Spectacular Craft & Home Based Business Show, Elementary School, Gibbon, 9 am-12:30 pm. Info: 507-4301493 or sharonfossum@gmail. com.

• Christmas in the Village, Steele Co Hist Soc, 1700 Austin Rd, Owatonna, 10 am-2 pm. Info: 507-451-1420 or schusmn.org/ christmas-in-the-village.

Sat, Dec 7 & Jan 4

• New Ulm Bird & Small Animal Swap & Sale Day, Brown Co Fairgrounds, New Ulm, 8 am-noon. Info: 507-375-4716 or 507-3546448.

Sat-Sun, Dec 7-8

• Holiday Open House, Morgan Creek Vineyards, 23707 478th Ave, New Ulm, 11 am-5 pm. Info: morgancreekvineyards. com, martimcv@aol.com or 507-947-3547.

• ‘Joy Has Dawned’ MLC Christmas Concert, Chapel of the Christ, Martin Luther College, 1995 Luther Ct, New Ulm. 7:30

Sat, 4 pm Sun. Info: mlc-wels. edu/music/christmas-concert/ or mlcinfo@mlc-wels.edu.

• Christmas at the Hubbard House, 606 S Broad St, Mankato. 3-7 pm Sat, 1-4 pm Sun. Info: 507-345-5566.

Sun, Dec 8

• Skate with Santa & the Steel, Civic Center, New Ulm, 1-4 pm. Info: parkandrec@newulmmn. gov or newulmmn.gov.

• SCHS Holiday Home Tour, Steele Co Hist Soc, 1700 Austin Rd, Owatonna. 12-5 pm. Info: schsmn.org/christmas-in-thevillage or 507-451-1420.

• Meet Me Under the Mistletoe Holiday Tour of Lights, Oak Terrace, 640 3rd St, Gaylord, 1:304:30 pm. Info: 507-237-2338 or exploregaylord.org.

Sun, Dec 8 thru Sun, Dec 29

• ‘Christmas Dreams’ Display, Arts Center, 435 Garden View Ln, Owatonna, 1-5 pm. Info: oacarts.org or 507-451-0533.

Tues, Dec 10

• Masquerade $5 Jewelry Sale, Medical Center Auditorium, 1324 5th St N, New Ulm, 10 am-3 pm. Info: 507-217-5180 or sara.schauer@allina.com.

• Friends & Family Night, Inspired, 119 N Minnesota St, New Ulm, 4-8 pm. Info: inspirednewulm@gmail.com or inspirednewulm.com.

• Gustavus Winds of Christmas, Christ Chapel, Gustavus Adolphus College, St Peter, 10 am. Info: mara@gustavus.edu.

• AARP Smart Driver 4-Hr Refresher, Washington Learning Center, New Ulm, 5:30-9:30 pm. Info & sign-up: newulm. ce.eleyo.com or 507-233-8307.

Thurs, Dec 12

• #ShopNewUlm At Night, downtown, New Ulm, 4-7 pm. Info: 507-233-4300 or chamber@ newulm.com.

• HYPE Ugly Sweater Party & Trivia, Plaza Garibaldi, New Ulm, 5-7 pm. Info: 507-233-4300 or nuyoungprofessionals@gmail. com.

• The Gathering—A Night of Praise, Christ the King, 1040 S Grade Rd SW, Hutchinson, 6:30 pm. Info: mrsdaggett2621@ gmail.com.

Fri, Dec 13

• Christmas in the Country, Winthrop, 4-8 pm. Info: 507-6472627 or chamberwinthropmn@ gmail.com

Fri -Sat, Dec 13-14

• Live Nativity Pageant, Riverside Park, Springfield, 7 pm. Info: springfieldmnchamber.org.

Fri-Sun, Dec 13-15

• Christmas at the Cox House, 500 N. Washington Ave., St Peter. 7 pm Fri-Sat, 1 pm Sun. Info: 507-934-2160.

Sat., Dec. 14

• Cookie Walk, St Gregory the Great Catholic Church Social Hall, 440 6th St, Lafayette, 9 am-1 pm. Info: 507-228-8298 or stgregory@holycrossafc.org

• Holiday Craft & Vendor Festival, City Center, 1107 11th St E, Glencoe, 9 am-3 pm. Info: Facebook or enchantedswapandsell. weebly.com.

• Winter Craft & Vendor Show, Purple Goose Eatery & Saloon, 228 N Main St, Janesville, 9 am-2 pm. Info: 507-234-5461.

• Farmers Market Christmas Expo, All Saints Parish, 600 3rd St, Madison Lake, 9 am-1 pm. Info: 507-243-3319.

• Christmas Market, St. Anastasia School, 400 Lake St SW, Hutchinson, 9 am-1 pm. Info: 320-587-6022 or wallyn@nutelecom.net.

• Holiday Farmers’ Market, Depot Marketplace, 25 Adams St SE, Hutchinson, 11 am-4 pm. Info; 320-234-5652.

• Main Street Christmas, Center for the Arts, 15 Franklin St SW & St. John’s Episcopal Church, Hutchinson, 3-5 pm; parade of lights 5:15 pm. Info: 320-2345652.

• Christmas Traditions—Music & Memories of the Season, Arts Center, 435 Garden View Ln, Owatonna, 7 pm. Info: oacarts. org 507-451-0533.

Sat, Dec 14, 21, 28 & Jan 4

• ‘I’ll Be Homicidal for Christmas,’ Country Club, 1991 Lemond Rd, Owatonna, 7 pm Dec 14 & Jan 4; 2 & 7 pm Dec 21 & 28. Info & tickets: 763-566-2583 or themysterycafe.com.

Sat, Dec 14 & Jan 11

• Maid Rites at American Legion, 13 S Minnesota, New Ulm, 10

am ‘til gone. Info: 507-354-4016 or AmericanLegionPost132@ gmail.com.

Sun, Dec 15

• ‘The Looney Lutherans,’ State Street Theater, 1 N State St, New Ulm, 2 pm. Info: statestreetnewulm.org or statestreettheater@gmail.com.

Thurs, Dec 19

• Searles Senior Club, Bar & Grill, 13014 Main St, New Ulm (Searles), 12 pm. Info: 507-217-7886.

Fri, Dec 20

• ‘We Behold His Glory’ Christmas Concert, Minnesota Valley Lutheran High School, 45638 561st Ave, New Ulm, 7 pm. Info: mvl. org/calendar/, valh@mvlhs.org or 507-354-6851.

Sat, Dec 21

• ‘Passage to the Light’ 2nd annual Winter Solstice Gathering, Flandrau State Park Beach House, New Ulm, 6:30 pm. Info: 507-2768591, jhinsman@newulmtel.net or norachurch@sleepyeyetel.net.

Mon, Dec 23

• Guys Night Out, Inspired, 119 N Minnesota St, New Ulm, 4-8 pm. Info: inspirednewulm@gmail. com.

Tues-Wed, Dec 24-25

• Christmas Luminaries, Schell’s

Brewery, 1860 Schell’s Rd, New Ulm, 6-10 pm Tues, 6 pm till burn out Wed. Info: 507-354-5528.

Tues, Dec 31

• Ice Skating Party for ages 9-18, All Seasons Arena, Mankato, 11 am-1 pm. Info: huhrich@nmlibrary.org or 507-345-5120.

• Beer & Hymns, Main Street Sports Bar, Hutchinson, 6-8 pm. Info: riverofhopehutchinson.org.

• New Years Eve, Event Center, New Ulm, 4 pm. Info: joe. romo1658@gmail.com.

Wed, Jan 1

• First Day Hike, Minneopa State Park, 5 mi W of Mankato off Hwy 68/169, 10-11:30 am. Info: 507-384-8890 or scott.kudelka@ state.mn.us.

Thurs, Jan 9

• Films on First Thursdays—‘Well Fed,’ Treaty Site History Center, 1851 S Minnesota Ave, St Peter, 7 pm. Info: 507-934-2160 or museum@nchsmn.org.

Sat, Jan 11

• Cross-Country Skiing with the Naturalist, Flandrau State Park. 1300 Summit Ave, New Ulm, 10-11 am. Info: 507-384-8890 or scott.kudelka@state.mn.us.

• Winter Fest, Minneopa State

Park, 5 mi W of Mankato off Hwy 68/169, 5-8 pm. Info: 507-3848890 or scott.kudelka@state. mn.us

• Craft Beer Expo, 1 Civic Center Plaza, Mankato, 3-6 pm. Info: mankatocraftbeerexpo.com/ about.

• Billy & Elton—The Hits, State Street Theater, 1 N State St, New Ulm, 7 pm. Info: statestreetnewulm.org or statestreettheater@gmail.com.

Sun, Jan 12

• Lafayette Lions’ Dad’s Belgian Waffle Breakfast, Community Center, Lafayette, 9 am-1 pm. Info: 507-240-0048.

Wed-Fri, Jan 15-17

• Bloodmobile, Vogel Fieldhouse, 122 S Garden St, New Ulm.1-7 pm Wed, 12-6 Thurs, 8:30 am-1:30 pm Fri. Info: redcross.org/giveblood.html.

Sat, Jan 25

• Snowshoeing with the Naturalist, Ft Ridgely State Park, 72404 Co Rd 30, Fairfax, 10-11 am. Info: 507-384-8890 or scott.kudelka@ state.mn.us.

• Snowshoe Hike, Minneopa State Park, 5 mi W of Mankato off Hwy 68/169, 1-2 pm. Info: 507-3848890 or scott.kudelka@state. mn.us.

MnDot#125249

he holidays are upon us. There is much to do— presents to buy, the tree to trim, and food to prepare for the feast. For many reasons, it can be a difficult time for some. With that in mind, one thing I know to be true is that every one of us wants to be loved. Every one of us wants to be needed and accepted as a worthwhile human being. During the holidays, I think this need for love is magnified for some. It is a good time to step back and think about how we are loved, and how we are valued as people.

As we think about these blessings of love we have, might we also think of giving some of that love away? There are people for whom the holidays are difficult—a period of time to get through rather than to celebrate. I can’t help but think about the Golden Rule. You know, “Do unto others as you would have them to do unto you.” We are all familiar with that saying, and yet perhaps its familiarity has caused us to forget its importance.

What if we were to put ourselves in the place of the homeless, the hungry, the sick, the jobless, the lonely, and others who suffer most during the holidays? How might we react? What would we feel? The grief of hopelessness or of poverty? The grief of loss?  These are not very happy thoughts, especially during the holidays; however, this is a reality for many. We all know someone who is in a situation of great need.

I know of someone in the Cities living in a “section eight” apartment. Recently, she found out that her neighbor’s refrigerator had not been working for over a month and the landlord had not fixed it, even after several calls. Her neighbor is Somalian and afraid that the landlord will do something to her. This woman I know helped her neighbor report the incident to the right authority and gave her $100 to buy food as she had been trying to survive from a cooler of ice for the past month. This woman

did not have money to give, but she had more than her neighbor. There are several people at our church who have been serving a meal once a month to anyone who wishes to eat. Attendance has grown from about 20 to 100 or more. What a blessing it is for me to visit with those who attend. They are grateful for the meal, but more so the time we spend visiting. It is the face time and the offer of prayer that means so much to them.

Other women at church have started “Laundry Love,” a program where anyone—during certain hours once a month—can wash their clothes for no charge at the local laundromat. People are grateful and donations of money have been more than expected. Soap, fabric softener, and even laundry bags just show up.

It is easy for all of us to get so busy that we do not see that which is before us—those who are calling out for help; those who need love and to be accepted as they are, where they are. We are people, meant to be loved and to love; meant to be in community with one another. Isaiah 61:1-3 says this, “The Spirit of God is upon me because God has anointed me to preach good tidings to the poor, to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, to open the prison to those who are captive . . . to comfort those who mourn, to give beauty for ashes.”

We all have things in our lives that need healing. But the promise here is this, as we are able to see others, to have a conversation with others, and walk-in their shoes, as we are able to do for them what we wish would be done for us, we not only create beauty from ashes for them but for ourselves as well.

May you find beauty for ashes this holiday. Peace.

REV. DIANE L. HATMAN United Church of Christ New Ulm

Wishing you a joyous holiday season and a prosperous new year 115077

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Toyota Corolla

DecemberMust

HAVES

1. Lafayette Flooring

With eco-forward construction, solvent-free coating, and highfidelity printing, Cleo’s proprietary technology builds floors that are as safe and environmentally responsible as they are stunning and realistic. Treasurer -- Shop Nordaas today for the newest Cleo Flooring.

Nordaas American Homes

10091 State Hwy 22 Minnesota Lake, MN 56068 800-658-7076

nordaashomes.com

2. Contemporary 3

Drawer Accent Chest

Add visual appeal and functionality to any part of your home with this contemporary accent chest. The black metal base and pull handles offer the perfect contrast to the washed brown look of the wood, and with three drawers for storage, you will finally have a home for all those random items laying around.

Rooms and Rest

Furniture and Mattress 1760 Madison Ave. Mankato, MN 56001 1704 North State St.

3. Basin Gifts make Great Stocking Stuffers Basin brings the relaxation of a spa to your home. With a refreshing line of sweetly scented bath bombs, scrubs and soaps that will help relieve your daily stresses. Scents range from Serenity or Electric lemonade and even Florida Sunshine, something to fit every mood. These products make the best stocking stuffers this holiday season.

Hy-Vee Hilltop 2010 Adams St. Mankato, MN 56001 507.625.9070

Hy-Vee Riverfront 410 S. Riverfront Dr. Mankato, MN 56001 507.625.1107

4. Relax. Renew. Repeat. Promote total calm and peaceful relaxation. Improve sleep, eliminate fatigue and jet lag, alleviate stress and energize your entire body. All it takes is 60 Minutes of Float Therapy. All new at Body Concepts. Call to schedule your appointment today!

Body Concepts LLC 1615 N. Riverfront Dr. Mankato, MN 56001 507.381.5467 bodyconceptsmankato. com

5. Christmas Gnome

Add a little Christmas Cheer this year with one of our adorable Christmas Gnomes. These little creatures will bring a smile to even the biggest Scrooge’s face. Available in several sizes and colors. Bella Nova Boutique 521 N. Riverfront Dr. Mankato, MN 56001 507.779.7444

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6. Healthy, Vibrant Rejuvenated Skin Skin Essentials offers DERMALINFUSION®, an advanced skinresurfacing treatment that simultaneously exfoliates, extracts and infuses skin with condition-specific serums for an all-inclusive treatment in one step to improve skin health, function and appearance with no downtime.

Call Skin Essentials and schedule a free consultation to discover if DERMALINFUSION is right for you.

Skin Essentials, Mankato Clinic

1400 Madison Ave. Suite 400A Madison East Center Mankato, MN 56001 507.625.6599 skinessentialsmankato.com

8. Our Traveling Showroom

Blinds & More travels to your home or office with custom samples. We offer window coverings and interior design services. Our team will travel within a 60-mile radius of Mankato. Schedule your free consultation today!

Blinds & More Interior Design Group

507.380.5019 blindsandmore.org

10. Youth Hydroflask

We are taking the pressure off searching for the perfect unique gift. Businesses- Great corporate packages for holiday appreciation gifts. Family, Friends, NeighborsDoes anyone on you list need some pampering to relax? How about aches and pains? Are you shopping for artists or athletes who would love a boost to their craft?

Consider a Calm Lake gift card or package and everyone will enter the New Year with positive renewal.

Calm Lake Floats

1010 Southridge Road New Ulm, MN 56073 507.920.7992 calmlakefloats.com

9. Sonicare Platinum North Mankato Family Dentistry offers DISCOUNTED dental professional pricing, PLUS an extended 2 ½ yr warranty with a $20 mail in rebate now through December 31st! It’s a must have Sonicare: Flexcare Platinum electric toothbrush. Smart brushing technology removes 10x more plaque making healthier gums in 2 weeks vs manual toothbrush. Special pricing at $130 with this premium model. No need to be a patient to get yours today!

North Mankato Family Dentistry

1400 Lookout Dr. North Mankato, MN 56003

507.625.CARE (2273) mankatodentist.com

Just the right size for little hands, our Hydro Flask for kids is made with the same stainless shell and double wall vacuum insulation as our bigger bottles. Every sip stays icy cold for up to 24 hours-so when recess or practice wraps up, the perfect refreshment is waiting on the sidelines. With a colorful, easy-toclean Straw Lid and durable Flex Boot this is the perfect companion for any adventure-big or small.

Scheels River Hills Mall 1850 Adams St. Mankato, MN 56001 507.386.7767 scheels.com

7. Give the Gift of Calm

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DecemberMust

13. Go Big or Go Gnome!

11. Gift Pack of Mini Balsamics and Oils

Mix and Match 4 of your favorite flavors in a box for the perfect gift. Delight the cook in your life, or spice up your kitchen with new and unique flavors. You save $5 off the purchase of 4, so the 4-pack is a great deal!

Blue Skye Mercantile 237 Belgrade Avenue North Mankato MN 56003 507.779.7076 blueskyemercantile.com

12. Pure Illumination

Pure illumination is a super moisturizing lip gloss that is perfect for ladies on the go! It has a mirror on the side and a built in LED light to apply your gloss anywhere!

Only $20 each.

Pippi Lane Boutique

405 West Elm Ave. Waseca, MN 56093

Pippi Lane Boutique

611 N. Riverfront Dr. Mankato, MN 56001 pippilaneboutique.com

Looking for unique stocking stuffers or hostess gifts? We have a lot to choose from, but who can resist these cute guys? The stainless steel bottle opener features gnome accent topper with buffalo check flannel hat, faux fur beard, wooden nose and grommeted printed canvas tag. Stop in downtown New Ulm and visit our two floors of unique gifts for everyone on your Christmas list! Inspired 119 N Minnesota St. New Ulm, MN 56073 507.233.4350 inspirednewulm.com

14. Toys & Games from S Supply

When you are looking for quality toys look no further than C&S Supply in Mankato. We carry an extensive line of high quality toys from names like Melissa & Doug, Lego, Ertl, Radio Flyer, Schleich, and New-Ray. We have farm toys too! These are toys that will last and give your child many years of enjoyment.

C&S Supply 1951 N. Riverfront Dr. Mankato, MN 56001 507.387.1171 or 800.879.1938

FACEBOOK POLL

WHAT IS YOUR MOST TREASURED HOLIDAY ORNAMENT OR DECORATION AND

WHY?

l Brenda: A hand blown Christmas ball. I bought it in Denmark from a street vendor when I was 19 and going to college there. It’s the last ornament to go on the tree. It’s my way of having a little piece of Denmark with me at Christmas.

l Ashley: A ceramic Christmas tree that my grandma made about 40 years ago for my mom, and then she handed down to me!

l Amy: The memorial ornaments that we have collected over the last seven years since my brother’s death. Each year we either make one in his memory or we receive one in his honor. Those are the ones that I keep close to my heart.

l Laura: The hand painted wooden ornaments my mom makes every year. I have them from since I was born.

l Kari: The embroidered angel that my grandparents had at the top of their tree the entire time I was growing up. It is now mine.

l Brittney: The pickle. As kids at my grandma’s, we would have to find the pickle that was hidden in the tree, the person that found it got a special little gift.

l Christine: I have a wild, colorful tree and my set of dragon ornaments are my favorite! Adding unicorns this year!

l Jennifer: I have three treasured ornaments. The first is from my paternal grandparents made from the ash of Mt. St. Helen.

The second is a mercury glass ornament handed down from my maternal great- great grandmother. And the last is a tiny rocking horse ornament that was given to my first child who passed away before the next Christmas.

l Kara: I don’t have a favorite ornament because they are only things, and we like to change the decor and color scheme every year. My most treasured things are the people I’m with and the photos of those in the past.

l Stefanie: My hand made Christmas stocking that my grandma made for me. Perfect in every way. Love the memories.

l Michelle: I received an angel made out of shells from a dear friend, Carol who passed from cancer the same day my oldest daughter was born. I still hang the angel near the top of the tree each year.

l Marisa: I love all three of my kiddos first Christmas ornaments.

l Melinda: We had a Disney tree growing up and all of the ornaments are the original Disney movie characters, and I have them now. It’s so fun!

l Mandy: My most treasured is a Hallmark ornament I received from my grandma one year. I got this ornament the year my other grandma had passed away, so it has twice the meaning to me.

l Rita: The one my mom had bought me, but was put away, and once the Alzheimer’s took over, no longer could remember it. We found in along with a card addressed to me, in her dresser drawer while cleaning out her house before we sold it.

l Cary: My dad’s blue baby rattle. He passed away Christmas morning, so every Christmas morning I place it on the tree!

l Tanya: All the ornaments my kids made over the years, and also a Hallmark ornament I bought that is identical to one my grandma gave me in 1976. The original was lost in a fire with all my first Christmas decorations and that is the only one I was ever able to duplicate.

l Melinda: When I was seven and in pageants, I made a Christmas ornament with all my friends and it is a crown that sparkles! It is my oldest ornament and holds a special place in my heart.

l Michele: A cardinal taken from the casket spray of our family’s dear friend, Katie. She died during the holidays a few years ago. The cardinal has a pick on the bottom and we “pick” it in to our tree. It reminds us of her— “When a cardinal appears it’s a visitor from heaven.”

l Steph: A ceramic Christmas tree candy dish my grandpa made. We always fill it with old fashion candies like he did.

l Amber: My favorite ornament I have is a little angel and all of the little ornaments I made in school. So happy my mom saved them all!

l Shirl: A handmade clear ornament with a picture of my dad and piece of his favorite shirt inside. Miss him.

l Bri: An ornament I made as a child at ECFE with my family. I remember getting to hang it proudly every year!

l Stacey: The very first Christmas together ornament my husband got me.

l Dani: An ornament of a picture with the

whole family with my dad, before he passed away.

l Kathryn Ann: I made an ornament that has my son’s birth bracelet, hat and bassinet tag in it.

l Suzanne: Ornaments from my grandma!

l Nora: My mother’s nativity scene she puts out every year. She made it so it’s super special!

l Katie: One my mom made me my first Christmas!

l Sheryl: My heaven ornament that I got from a friend when my mom passed away 16 years ago, and it is on my tree every year.

l Nichole: My great-gramdma’s wooden ornaments.

l Shelly: A small ornament from my grandparents’ tree.

l Elizabeth: The Wesley ornament. It’s a reminder that he is always with us.

l Leticia: The ones my kids made are my favorite.

l Michelle: A “sisters” ornament from my friend Renee!

l Katie: My girls’ homemade ornaments.

l Linda: A snowman ornament that my son made out of an empty toilet paper roll when he was in kindergarten. It has a top hat, a scarf as well as a face. It is my very favorite.

l Lee: My angel!

l Raquel: Our most treasured “decoration” is a coin my late father-in-law gave to us as an impromptu gift at our wedding in December, which was held in their living room so he could see it (he was in hospice care). We’ll put it out at Christmas time again this year. He passed away just 12 days later, right after Christmas. Our Christmas coin has a really special place in our hearts.

l Rebecca: I have 4 photo frame ornaments that I love because they have my children’s baby pictures in them.

l Sue: I still use all the ornaments my kids made in school, they are 31 and 27 years old now.

l Beth: Our Christmas alligator, it is funny and large, and reminds us of Florida.

l Holly: Salt dough hand print ornaments I made of my twins when they were 10 months old. As a first time parent with twins, I was too exhausted and stressed to make baby books but I made ornaments so those are special to me!

Kristen: The homemade ornaments my girls made in school.

I’m a rather experimental gardener, mostly because I have access to many discounted and free gardening materials at my job— which also makes me rather stingy about buying new materials. I also love learning about new plants, and the best way to truly understand them is to grow them myself. This past summer, I tried a few new gardening techniques and planted some new trees. I’d love to share them with you.

Coleus cuttings

I had a gorgeous coleus in 2019. I grew several plants of two different varieties, ‘Henna,’ and ‘French Quarter.’ Henna has ruffled gold leaves with a deep maroon underside, while French Quarter has green leaves with burgundy stripes around hot pink centers.

Instead of buying large quantities of coleus plants, I decided to try rooting cuttings of the ones we were already growing at work. We usually trim them when we plant them for our clients, because cutting off the tops promotes lateral branching, which leads to wider, bushier plants. I put some of the snipped tops in a jar of water. Within a week, they had all grown roots, and they were ready to transplant.

My new coleus transplants needed plentiful watering once I planted them in containers, but after another week or so they were fully acclimated to growing in soil. They grew quickly, easily catching up to my store-bought annuals. If you’re looking to save money on annuals, try buying a single coleus with several longer stems. Cut off the stems and root them in water to create additional plants. It’s worth the extra effort.

Unconventional mulches

I also like to save money by using mulches that are readily available for free. Wood mulch is pretty expensive in large quantities, and it’s possible to get the same benefits mulching with pine needles or shredded leaves. There are many large white pines in my neighborhood, so this fall I asked some of my neighbors if I could collect fallen pine needles from their yards. I love the soft look of pine needle mulch, and it will help suppress weeds and retain moisture in my newest garden beds. Leaf mulch is also a natural overwintering site for many beneficial insects.

My more mature garden beds have been growing in for a few years now, so there’s less bare ground to cover with mulch. I’ve been working toward completely covering these gardens with groundcovers, using the plants themselves as a mulch of sorts. Densely planted garden soil has less available real estate both above and below ground, forcing new weed seedlings to compete with existing plants for water, sunlight, and nutrients. When plant roots cyclically grow, die, and decompose, they naturally increase the organic matter in the soil, taking care of another reason that gardeners use wood mulches. Over time, groundcovers can help eliminate the need for mulch altogether, which is my ultimate goal.

New trees

Our home arboretum gained three new trees this year, two that Sam and I planted, and one that the City of Minneapolis chose for our boulevard. The City replaced a large elm they had removed last year, and the arborists ordered us an Eye Stopper cork tree (Phellodendron lavallei ‘Longenecker’). The cork tree is a medium-sized shade tree with attractive cork-like bark and bright lemon-yellow fall color. It grows rather slowly but tolerates shade, drought, and standing water. The City of Minneapolis is working to diversify its urban tree species, and it’s fun to help by nurturing a newer tree variety.

My personal tree choices this year included a Korean maple (Acer pseudosieboldianum) and a ‘Westerstede’ Swiss stone pine (Pinus cembra ‘Westerstede’). The Korean maple was a rescue tree of sorts—we found it in the Gertens clearance lot for $30, which is a great deal for any five-foot tree. I had always admired this small ornamental tree for its tidy growth habit, interesting leaf shape, and vibrant fall color, so I obviously had to buy one at such an accessible price. We planted it on the front corner of our house. The Westerstede Swiss stone pine was one that Sam and I picked out together. It is a densely conical pine with blueish-green needles, and it grows to 12 feet tall at maturity. I was looking for an evergreen tree to anchor the corner of our yard and serve as a buffer between our house and the busy street at the end of our block. The Swiss stone pine is a tough and beautiful tree, and we’re happy to have her.

LAURA SCHWARZ New Ulm native, Minneapolis-based horticulturist and writer

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