October/November 2011 Her Living

RENAMED . RESTYLED

Breast Cancer

Awareness Month

Tracy MaddenMcMahon

Reporting From Home

Girls’ Night Out

18 to 8

Lose the Weight October/November 2011 • www.heromaha.com

Omaha Magazine • 5921 S. 118th Circle • Omaha, NE 68137

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Her Living • October/November 2011

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Celebrate 10 Years of Growth FREE Admission | FREE Cake October 8 and 9

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Her Living • October/November 2011

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volume 10 . issue 5 this issue October/November 2011

6

October/November 2011 • Volume 10 . Issue 5 Publisher Todd Lemke Omaha publications Editor Linda Persigehl HER LIVING editor Sandy Lemke Editorial Assistant Bailey Hemphill

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Art director John Gawley Graphic Designer Katie Anderson Principal Photography minorwhite studios, inc Scott Drickey, Bill Sitzmann Guest Photographer Christian Behr Contributors Suzanne Smith Arney Susan Meyers • Jared Spence Stephanie Vondrak, D.D.S. Darcie Dingman • Lüc Carl Vice president Greg Bruns Account Executives Gwen Lemke • Gil Cohen • Vicki Voet Stacey Penrod • Paige Edwards sales associate Alicia Smith-Hollins Technical advisor Tyler Lemke Warehouse Distribution Manager Mike Brewer For a one-year subscription (six issues), send $9.95 to P.O. Box 461208, Papillion, NE 68046-1208. www.heromaha.com

Features Losing Weight: 18 to 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Cover: Tracy Madden-McMahon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 DEPARTMENTS Editor’s Letter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Girls’ Night Out: Kona Grill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Art: Liz Vercruysse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Food: Chocolate Grand Marnier Soufflé, Chef Travis Brink . . . . . . . 10 Profile: Regency Lodge Hotel, Shana Johnson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Health: Beating Breast Cancer . The Power of Positivity . . . . . . . . . 13 Health: Beating Breast Cancer . Survivors Spotlight . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Beauty Sheet: Making Faces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Home: DIY, Repurpose . Renew! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Home: Decorating . Refurbishing Retailers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Beauty Extra: Omaha-Hollywood Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Columns Dental Health: Jaw Pain . . . . 16 Husband Material: . . . . . . . 17 Living Together Auto Tips: Fill ’er up . . . . . . . . 27

Comments? Story ideas?

Send yourletter to the editor: letters@omahapublications.com Her Living magazine is a community magazine. A special community of women. Please enjoy and share your issue of Her Living. Our advertisers make Her Living possible. We ask that you support them as often as you can.

Do you know a woman who is a role model in our community?

A mentor, activist, leader, artist, business owner, model, adventurer, survivor, teacher, or volunteer? Share her story with us, and we may publish it in Her Living. Her Living is your magazine; for the women of the metropolitan of Omaha.

Owned and managed by Omaha Magazine, LTD Her Living magazine is published bi-monthly by Omaha Magazine, LTD, P.O. Box 461208, Omaha, NE 68046. No whole or part of the contents herein may be reproduced without prior written permission of Omaha Magazine, LTD, excepting individually copyrighted articles and photographs. Unsolicited manuscripts are accepted, however no responsibility will be assumed for such solicitations.

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Her Living • October/November 2011

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Her Editor’s Letter Sandy Lemke • Editor

Renamed . Restyled

W

elcome to HER Living Magazine: Leisure, Lifestyle, Health & Home. To our new readers, welcome. To our longtime HER Magazine readers, I hope

you will enjoy our refreshing name and style. Many thanks to our Art Director John Gawley for his lead on this exciting project. Her Living better focuses our editorial, and our new

look gives us an update.

Refocus Renewal, refocusing and repurposing came to be the theme for this issue. It’s carried throughout the stories, starting with our cover feature on Tracy Madden-McMahon. She refocused her priorities with a recent career change. Learn more about the former television anchor on page 23.

Reinvention Mary Beth Pinckney is a knockout 25-year-old who took charge of her diet and fitness routine. Find out how she lost 75 pounds and went from a size 18 to an 8 on page 20.

Renovations We visited Kona Grill at Village Pointe Shopping Center to check out their recent renovations. See page 6 to read about their $500,000 makeover.

Repurposing Our Home article features several ways to refresh and repurpose worn items around your home. See page 26 for ideas.

And…More October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Susan Meyers, our health writer, relays helpful information to those undergoing treatment. See page 13. The Survivors Spotlights on page 18 feature two amazing women who have or are undergoing treatment for breast cancer. Their touching, sometimes humorous stories put a face on the pink ribbon.

As part of the Omaha Publications family, we are all local and all about the reader. Please do not hesitate to contact us anytime via email, phone or Facebook with your comments on our new look.

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Her Living • October/November 2011

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Her Living • October/November 2011

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Leisure Girls’ Night Out Story by Sandy Lemke • Photos by minorwhitestudios.com

Kona Grill’s General Manager Sally Stoakes, standing, greets happy hour guests.

Kona Grill Village Pointe Sally Stoakes, General Manager 295 N 170th St Omaha, NE 68118-4079 (402) 779-2900 www.konagrill.com

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Her Living • October/November 2011

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Kona Grill . Village Pointe

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The popular happy hour spot received a half-million-dollar renovation recently, which included comfy new seating both in the dining room and out on the patio.

General Manager Sally Stoakes said, “We did new carpet, tables, chairs, booths, paint, art, stone, ceilings, lighting fixtures, bar tops, all-new bathrooms, new surround sound systems — We are very proud of it! Lots and lots of people said it looks like a whole new place. It is warmer and brighter. We are very pleased with the outcome and that our guests enjoy it.”

Check out their skinny drink menu, which includes the calorie count of fun drinks around 100 calories. Examples: Slim cosmo-rita at 84 calories, includes Patron tequila and Monin sugar-free triple sec. “Any untamed cosmo-girl will love it.” Also the cos[medic] martini. “Skip the Botox and have two of these! Just 76 calories of Bacardi dragon berry, pomegranate juice, blueberries, raspberries and agave nectar – it uses all the superfruit and natural antioxidants that will rejuvenate anyone.”

The restaurant features a private dining room, which seats up to 34 and has an A/V monitor mounted on the wall, ready for Power Point presentations or DVDs. What makes Kona “the” place to go for Girls’ Night Out? Stoakes said, “The variety and the price during the happy hour. We have been voted ‘Best of Omaha’ four years running. We don’t downsize the portions during happy hour. At some locations it’s a smaller portion, but here it is the same item you would get throughout the day at half the price.”

Page 17

Her Living • October/November 2011

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Lifestyle Art Story by Suzanne Smith Arney • Photos by minorwhitestudios.com

Vercruysse stands among a display of pods on her Washington County farm.

Liz Vercruysse . Pods (large and small), Bottles and a Refrigerator

D

riving through the hills of rural Washington County, it’s easy to spot Liz Vercruysse’s place— her mailbox has a terra cotta carapace covered with spikes.

It calls to mind her O! Project, My Spiky O! (2007), currently at Harvey Oaks Plaza, and spikes have been a leitmotif of Vercruysse’s work for the past decade. Her pointy pieces have been variously described as energetic, aggressive, protective, primordial, off-putting, and invitingly tactile. While her work may be hard to pigeon-hole, it’s sure to elicit a response.

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Her Living • October/November 2011

www.OmahaPublications.com

A wood-burning kiln in Big Table Studios’ pottery workshop.

A walk in the country is rewarded with brickles and burs stuck to your clothing.

Some of us regard them as annoyances, others take a botanic interest, and still others admire their form. Vercruysse is in the latter category. On these 200 acres of her late grandfather’s farm, there are plenty of seed pods to admire. She and partner John Martelle converted the farm’s machine shed into a pottery workshop, Big Table Studios, in 2005. Its open space is now filled with long wooden worktables, pottery wheels and kilns, buckets of supplies, and shelves of work, drying and finished. Just outside the studio, the couple built a 250-cubic-foot anagama-style wood-burning kiln. Its chamber is big enough for Vercruysse’s tallest pieces, “pods” measuring 54 inches high.

“I love to read the ash patterns on these simple, unglazed forms,” she says, running a hand over the dry, gritty surface of one of the large pods. She points out a cloud of sparkly gray ash on the reddish stoneware, the flow lines made by the fire’s breath, liquescent ash pooling where it began to melt. Starting www.ReadOnlineNow.com

with 240 pounds of wet clay, these giants are built in sections over a week to 10 days.

In addition to a daunting physical challenge (“The material can be tricky”), each also requires an emotional commitment that is tested should the pod break during firing.

Porcelain “three-legged bottles,” lined up on a shelf, are much smaller—about 10 inches tall. Vercruysse enjoys their malleability, both in her hands and during the firing. The kiln’s heat (2300˚) seems to animate them; they emerge with their delicate necks turned this way and that, their toes en pointe. It is this serendipity that leads Vercruysse to describe the studio as having a “climate of surprise.” From first idea to the sales table, there are a myriad of unexpected ways a piece can change. In addition to individual pieces of sculpture, Vercruysse creates assemblages of ceramic pieces and found objects, both mobiles and stabiles.

“The outbuildings are full of old equipment and parts,” says Vercruysse. Disconnected from their original function, these pieces are appreciated aesthetically; in combination,

metal and clay elements take on a new life.

Vercruysse’s work has been recognized with awards and commissions over the years, most recently a 2010 Individual Artist Fellowship from Nebraska Arts Council.

Currently she is one of five artists selected for Omaha Public Power District’s green-themed Refrigerator Art Project. As a fun way to promote OPPD’s refrigerator recycling program, each artist was given an outdated refrigerator to use as a “canvas.” Refrigerarium is Vercruysse’s interpretation of a terrarium.

For the latest siting (and sighting), go to www.oppd.com/AimGreen/22_006092.

Liz Vercruysse’s website is www.lizvercruysse.com. Big Table Studios is open to the public Mother’s Day weekend and during the annual fall Omaha North Hills Pottery Tour, and by appointment. Classes are also offered.

See www.bigtablestudios.com. Omaha North Hills Pottery Tour 2011 is scheduled for October 1st and 2nd. Learn more at www. omahanorthhillspotterytour.com.

Her Living • October/November 2011

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Lifestyle Food Story by Sandy Lemke Chef Travis Brink prepares a dish at the French Café.

Chocolate . Grand Marnier Soufflé Chocolate Unsalted Butter Vanilla Extract Egg Yolks Warm Water Sugar Egg Whites Grand Marnier

7 oz 4 TBL 1 ½ tsp 3 ea 3 TBL ½ C + 2 TBL 8 ea 2 tsp

1. Brush soufflé ramekins with softened butter and then coat with sugar.

Refrigerate until ready for use.

2. In a mixing bowl, place chocolate and butter in bain marie until melted.

Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Set aside.

3. In a kitchen aid bowl, combine warm water and egg yolks. Whisk until frothy.

Gradually add 2 TBL of sugar and whisk until ribbons form, about 5 minutes.

4. Using a spatula, fold egg yolks into chocolate mixture. Reserve.

5. In a separate bowl, add egg whites and lemon juice. Whisk on medium-high speed until frothy, then add remaining ½ cup of sugar. Beat until whites reach stiff (but not dry) peaks.

6. Add 1/3 of whites to chocolate and mix with a spatula until blended. Fold in remaining egg whites.

7. Ladle mixture into prepared molds filling to the lip.

8. Bake at 400° until soufflé rises 1 ½” above mold, approx. 18-20 minutes.

9. Remove from oven, dust with powdered sugar and garnish with a side of crème anglaise. Serve immediately.

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Her Living • October/November 2011

Chef . Travis Brink

C

hef Travis Brink practices his craft at the Omaha institution, The French Café. Of it, he says, “I feel that now, philosophically we are as French as we have ever been. I have worked hard to locally source ingredients that represent the best the Midwest has to offer. For me, that is a far better representation of the French cooking sensibility than dragging out an old classic will ever be.”

Brink added, “With its age and history there are certain standards in quality and offerings that I am entrusted to maintain: items like the Escargot, French Onion Soup, Filet au Poivre, and Chateaubriand are permanent fixtures on the menu and I feel comfortable in that capacity. A big challenge is people’s perception of French cuisine. To the uninitiated, there is this prevailing stereotype of French restaurants being pretentious and snobby in their service, as well as their fare; the reality is that (in our restaurant at least) the goal is to entertain. We want our guests to have a relaxed, enjoyable dining experience while maintaining a high level of service.

I think once new diners get over the French vocabulary, the cuisine is very approachable and the ingredients are not so daunting.”

An Omaha Central alum, Brink has worked at Andrés French Restaurant in Las Vegas, as well as for for Joël Robuchon at the MGM Grand (also in Las Vegas).

Trained at the California Culinary Academy, now a Le Cordon Bleu property, he also attended classes at Metro Community College.

Brink said, “MCC has a great program and they have done a wonderful job of reinvesting in their students and facilities over the years.

For myself I wanted a more immersive environment...I wanted to surround myself with other students that were committed full time to culinary school. CCA was a good fit because of this as well as providing me with an opportunity to work in a culinary mecca like San Francisco.”

Besides work, Brink enjoys “movies a great deal and (I) have very eclectic tastes in that regard. As a release I play softball every week and basketball occasionally. I also follow college football casually and am an avid Red Sox and Celtics fan.” www.OmahaPublications.com

profile R

egency Lodge is a full-service hotel with 145 guest rooms, which include four log cabin suites, and three whirlpool suites. Being a full-service hotel, the lodge can provide all the amenities that guests enjoy, such as complimentary WiFi, parking, hot breakfast, shuttle service (within a five-mile radius), business center, fitness center, hot tub, swimming pool, and sauna.

In every room, there are safes, refrigerators, microwaves, coffeemakers, fogless mirrors, and pillow-top mattresses. With over 10,000 square feet of flexible function space, the hotel can easily accommodate wedding receptions, reunions, corporate meetings, social events, and trade shows. The hotel has continued to show growth over its many years of business by providing personalized customer service, and allowing guests to enjoy the luxuries of a mountain resort without leaving the city.

Shana Johnson has been with Regency Lodge for seven years, the most recent of which have been as the General Manager. Johnson, who received a degree in accounting from Bellevue University, faced her biggest challenge when she was promoted to the General Manager position. Although she had been the hotel Controller, her new responsibilities included improving guest services and financial results by restructuring many areas of the hotel operations. Her success with the restructure led to the lodge’s best year to date, which she believes has shown that she is a strong woman that can accomplish anything she puts her mind to. She says her mentor has always been her father, Ronald, who was in the military for almost 30 years. “My dad’s work ethics are something that I picked up on early in life. Working hard and being dedicated to your career will always keep you on top,” she says.

Johnson says what she loves most about her job is when she can surprise her guests. “Recently, we had an Air Force member who had been stationed in Afghanistan stay at the hotel. He hadn’t seen his wife in almost a year, and he was surprising her with a romantic night out, so I upgraded the couple to our Log Cabin Suite free of charge. He was so appreciative that he gave me a U.S. Flag badge that he wore on his uniform.” Johnson also enjoys hosting wedding receptions. Each wedding is unique with how the wedding parties decorate the two curved staircases in the hotel lobby.

As for her goals in life, Johnson says she wants to continue to make Regency Lodge a very successful hotel and be the best wife and mother she can be.

www.ReadOnlineNow.com

Shana Johnson General Manager

909 S. 107th Ave. • Omaha, NE 68114 402.397.8000 • 800.617.8310 www.regencylodge.com

Her Living • October/November 2011

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Her Living • October/November 2011

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Health Beating Breast Cancer Story by Susan Meyers • Photos by minorwhitestudios.com

The Power . Of Positivity A positive attitude and support system can improve cancer outcomes

Y Elisa Bomgaars, MD, medical oncologist at Oncology Associates, P.C. www.ReadOnlineNow.com

ou’ve probably heard the old adage “a positive attitude will get you far.”

Recent studies reveal that this piece of advice has positive implications for cancer patients as well.

“Research has shown that across the board, in all types of cancer, those who have a positive attitude as well as a strong support system have improved recovery and outcomes,” says Elisa Bomgaars, MD, medical oncologist at Oncology Associates, P.C. “For many people, treatment and recovery can take its toll on one’s physical and emotional health,” says Bomgaars. “It’s normal to be sad and even become depressed when you’ve been hit with the news that you have cancer.”

But there are things you can do to maintain your positivity and general well-being. One of the strongest factors affecting one’s positivity and coping abilities is having a strong support system, notes Bomgaars. Those who lack a support system may be more prone to depression and body image problems. Depression should not be ignored. “Studies have shown that antidepressants can be just as helpful as some chemotherapies in affecting outcome,” she says.

Exercise and good nutrition can provide also provide physical and emotional benefits. >> Her Living • October/November 2011

13

Health Beating Breast Cancer

Margaret Block, MD, medical oncologist at Nebraska Cancer Specialists

“Exercise releases endorphins, which can help with pain, nausea, fatigue and depression,” says Bomgaars. “Women who exercise throughout their treatment will also have better strength and energy, which can help expedite recovery.”

It’s also important to maintain a balanced diet. “This is not the time to diet, but this also doesn’t mean you need to eat more than normal either,” says Bomgaars.

In addition, any type of vitamins in large doses is not recommended during treatment.

“If the vitamins have antioxidants, there’s a concern that these may hinder cancer therapy,” notes Bomgaars. “If you are not eating well due to nausea, a multi-vitamin in small doses may be an exception.”

After treatment, women may continue to have to deal with a host of short-term side effects that may linger for some time afterwards. While problems like hair loss, skin and nail issues, memory loss, sexual problems and pain will eventually resolve themselves with time, understanding what these side effects are and how to deal with them can help women cope with these changes.

“Dealing with hair loss is one of the most difficult changes for women to deal with,” says Margaret Block, MD, medical oncologist at Nebraska Cancer Specialists. It may take five to six weeks before after a woman’s last chemo treatment before she will notice some hair returning, she explains. After that, it will begin to grow back much faster. Initially, it may come in very fine, curly and a slightly different color, but may return to its normal color and texture later.

“Approximately 70 percent of patients deal with some sort of sexual problems,” notes Block. “Chemotherapy or other hormonal pills can suppress estrogen and cause side effects similar to menopause. It can also put women into premature menopause which may contribute to weight gain.”

Some women experience lingering pain or swelling from lumpectomies. “This may not

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Her Living • October/November 2011

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completely go away but can be minimized with stretching,” says Block.

Neuropathy or numbness in the fingers and toes is another side effect that should improve with time but may never completely go away for some, notes Bomgaars.

Many women also complain of memory loss, also referred to as chemobrain, which tends to be worse for those who must take anti-estrogen therapy.

Chemobrain can be combated by remaining active and doing things that stimulate the brain, such as working, reading or crossword puzzles. “Studies show that those that remain idle and just give up have a harder time getting back to where they were before cancer,” Bomgaars says. “How you overcome it is the most important thing. You have to keep exercising your brain and get it back in shape just like you would the rest of your body.”

Programs like the Image Recovery Center at Alegent Health and the Life Renewal Center at The Nebraska Medical Center provide services that can help women cope with the personal and physical challenges of cancer and provide a more holistic approach to healing and recovery.

These programs offer services like wig fittings, cranial and breast prosthetic fittings, oncology massages and exercise classes as well as skin and nail care products specifically geared for people with or recovering from cancer.

Beki Rainey, clinical cosmetologist for the Image Recovery Center, says the center is a safe-haven for cancer patients. “When they come here, they know they are among people who understand their needs and are going through the same changes,” she says. “Retail products are not geared for the needs of cancer patients. We have products that can make cancer patients feel young, sexy and good about themselves again.”

Some women may also benefit from a support group or other transitional program to help them deal with the emotional and physical challenges of cancer.

An Omaha program called A Time to Heal is a free 12-week holistic program designed to help women regain physical, emotional, intellectual, psychological and spiritual strength >>

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9/1/11 4:07 Her Living • October/November 2011 PM 15

Her Dental Health Story by Stephanie Vondrak, D.D.S.

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he tendency to overachieve and multi-task seems to be the American way. Work commitments, kids’ activities, housework…the list of tension-triggering obligations goes on and on. So, waking up with headaches, stiff shoulders, and/or sore facial muscles is to be expected, right?

For example, picture a “quick” trip to Target. In my life, it goes something like this…My red-faced, blue-eyed daughter, 3, crying hysterically. She wants out of the grocery cart, shoeless, certain she is missing a great adventure. I turn the corner, my smiling, brown-eyed boy, 5, “helping mommy shop,” flings a jar of preserves towards the cart. Naturally, I catch the preserves mid-air, move swiftly down the isle, and answer my cell phone all at the same time. P.S. Did I mention we have been to Target’s potty twice?

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJD) is the second most common musculoskeletal condition resulting in pain and disability (after chronic low back pain), affecting 5 to 12 percent of the population. Common TMJD symptoms include: headaches, shoulder aches, sore facial muscles, popping/clicking in the jaw, ear pain and ringing, restricted jaw opening, and interrupted sleep patterns. The cause of TMJD is most likely clenching and grinding of teeth during times of stress and/or when sleeping.

To relieve symptoms and balance occlusal stress, patients undergo splint therapy treatment, which utilizes a custom appliance (splint) allowing muscles to relax and the jaw to regain a comfortable and stable joint position. With stability, muscles relax and pain subsides.

Splint therapy is a useful tool but not the complete answer to a pain-free oral system. Lessening stress with exercise, diet and positive thinking are helpful strategies as well. Life is too short to experience chronic discomfort and pain. So, take a deep breath, a long walk, and have a good laugh at your little ones. Controlling TMJD is all about balance and taking the pressure off.

For more information on Vondrak Dental, visit www.drvondrak.com

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Her Living • October/November 2011

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Health Beating Breast Cancer

Husband Material Story by Lüc Carl

after undergoing breast cancer treatment. listen “Five years of research shows that women who complete this program have less depression, less anxiety, are happier, more hopeful, report improved quality of unique needs life and improved ability to rebound from trauma than women who were not in the program,” says Stephanie Koraleski, a psychologist at Nebraska Methodist Hospital who helped develop the program with Kay Ryan, Ph.D. “The support a patient receives after treatment may be even more important to survivors than during the active phases of provide primary care treatment. Many patients say they feel well taken care of by their physicians and nurses needs during treatment, but when treatment is over, they feel lost. A patient’s anxiety tends to peak at certain times and one of those times is right after treatment.”

Koraleski says they have also found that when survivors have a chance to talk about their feelings, share their experiences and get some input from other survivors or professionals, they are better able to mobilize their own best coping skills.

The Nebraska Medical Center also offers a survivorship program to help patients through the transitional period between treatment and recovery.

Depending on the length and type of treatment, many patients must deal with the lingering health effects that some cancer treatments can cause, says Deb Darrington, MD, internal medicine specialist and director of the Cancer Survivorship Program at NMC. “Our goal is to aid in the transition after treatment–to provide support and serve as a point of care before the patient returns to their primary care doctor,” says Darrington. “We are there to listen, to develop a plan to meet their unique needs and communicate these needs to their primary care doctor or provide primary care needs for patients who don’t have a physician.”

Another component of the program is the Breast Cancer Survivorship Clinic that is available to breast cancer survivors who are cancer-free, who have completed therapy and are generally two years out from diagnosis. After the patient is evaluated, a “survivorship care plan” is developed based on the patient’s special medical, physical and nutritional needs. This plan serves as the patient’s long-term care plan to share with their primary care physician and addresses long-term medical issues like diabetes, heart disease, blood cholesterol and bone mass.

“In the end, it’s about accepting yourself and learning to love yourself again,” says Bomgaars. “Women may feel differently after treatment, but they have to overcome Deb Darrington, MD, internal medisome obstacles. Losing your hair is not going cine specialist and director of the Cancer to make you less beautiful and losing your Survivorship program at The Nebraska breast should not define you as a person.”

Medical Center.

“We are there to

,

to develop a plan to

meet their

and communicate

these needs to their

primary care doctor,

or

for patients who

don’t have a physician.”

-Darrington

www.ReadOnlineNow.com

S

What would your Mother think!?

o you’ve been together for three years. He shot down the dog idea (which, although you don’t want to admit it, was your attempt to get him one step closer to a baby), but moving in together has become somewhat of a possibility. You’re ready to settle down but don’t want to push him so hard that he runs away. He’s cheap and is starting to like the idea of you paying half the rent. It’s not a ring, but at least you’ll be sharing the same set of keys…

Bullsh*t! Don’t let him get away with it. It would be beneficial for you to get a second job and pay your own damn rent than to move in and split expenses for no other reason than convenience. Love is not convenient. If he’s considering moving in together because he’d rather play fantasy football than man up, get a better job, and buy you a ring, be warned–It just might be the beginning of a lifetime of heartache.

Moving in is not going to get you one step closer to a ring. On the contrary; being dismissive about the issue and showing confidence in your current living situation may be exactly what he needs to start thinking about how he can keep you a little closer to his heart. And, love doesn’t have a utility bill.

Lüc Carl is a writer in NYC, originally from Springfield, Neb. His website, DrunkDiet. com, has had over one million hits in one year. Look for his book The Drunk Diet March 2012. Follow @luccarl Her Living • October/November 2011

17

Health Beating Breast Cancer Story by Sandy Lemke • Photo by minorwhitestudios.com

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Her Living • October/November 2011

Survivor Spotlight .

Karen Andrews First Diagnosed: March 27, 2008

A

ndrews, 47, an escrow officer from Bellevue who now lives in Papillion, said that when she was first diagnosed she thought: “My mom had just died a month earlier and all I could do was cry.”

Andrews underwent three surgeries, four months of chemotherapy and seven weeks of radiation. The support she received from family and friends was tremendous: “My family was awesome. We were living in Virginia and my dad flew out twice for my treatments, my mother-in-law and daughter came out for treatments, and my best friend came out for a long weekend to show her support.”

A wife and mother, Andrews added, “My whole life changed. I know I can never take anything for granted. I truly believe that this is God’s calling for me. I believe I am here to support other women through their diagnosis and treatments. I have spent many hours on the phone helping women cope with what they are about to go through. I’ve also donated wigs, and my father and I make ribbon rugs that we sell and we donate to the American Cancer Society.

She added, “When you are diagnosed you feel so alone, and I never want another woman to feel that way. I had a great sense of humor through it all, and I try and help other women do the same. When my hair started growing back, I called myself ‘Chia Pet.’ I also wore a Harley doo rag because I wanted to look cool. During my treatments, I started a scrapbook of all the fun things I did during that time frame of my life. I have shared it with many women.

I want them to know that you may have cancer, but you can still live your life. Don’t allow the cancer to consume you.” www.OmahaPublications.com

Health Beating Breast Cancer Story by Sandy Lemke • Photo by minorwhitestudios.com

Survivor Spotlight .

Margie Smith “Saving Second Base”

60

First Diagnosed: Saint Patrick’s Day, 2000 “Lucky, huh?” she said.

-year-old Smith’s reactions were: “You have GOT to be kidding me! I don’t have time for this.”

“My family and friends are going to freak out! How do I tell them without breaking down?” www.ReadOnlineNow.com

“I hate needles! What the hell am I going to do NOW?!”

“Will I REALLY have to lose ‘my girls’?

I like ‘my girls’.”

“I just bought new bras!!!”

“There are going to be a lot more candles lit after mass on Sundays…revenue will go up at church in the candle-lighting area.”

“How will I be able to work and go through this?”

A marketing representative and South Omaha native who now lives in Bellevue, Smith’s course of treatment is ongoing: “Because I had a diagnosis of triple negative AND it was caught early, we chose lumpectomy, followed by four treatments of chemo and 33 radiation treatments. (As of this writing, I have 22 more radiation treatments to go). I will not take chances with my life. And I am literally, ‘saving 2nd base’.

My radiation is going well…I joke that due to all the radiation, my right breast glows in the dark. Does anyone need a nightlight…?”

Smith added, “I had many adverse reactions, so my treatment was unique. To build up my white blood cells, they gave me Neulasta. NOT a good thing. Unfortunately, that caused me so much pain that my roommate and her daughter had to call the Bellevue Fire Department to get me to the hospital. Since I was married to the late Police Chief (Hines Smith) and knew many of the city personnel, the reaction to my address was quick. I asked the first policeman on scene, “Am I dressed?” He just laughed at me…and off I went for a Demerol-filled day… and the obvious notation in my file NOT to give me Neulasta!”

Smith works to keeps her spirits up despite a rough year of losing her husband and a breast cancer diagnosis. Not only her own spirits, but of those around her: “The treatments can be very tiring and depressing. So to spice things up a little at my third treatment, I got a long pink wig, (graciously loaned to me from Bravadas), my girlfriend got me a pink boa, and I announced that anyone who wanted to see me pole dance, using my chemo treatment pole, to be there. Well, it drew quite an audience, it was filmed for YouTube and the rest is history. I haven’t received any dancing offers, but I sure made a lot of patients, nurses, family and friends laugh…”

Her Living • October/November 2011

19

Feature Losing Weight Story by Sandy Lemke • Photo by Christian Behr Mary Beth drops from a size 18 to an 8.

Reinvention . Dropping Dress Sizes Going from an 18 to an 8!

M

ary Beth Pinckney, 25, is a re-inventor—of her own figure!

She lost 75 pounds and shrunk before her friends and family’s eyes. During her transformation, she posted photos on Facebook to the amazement of her online friends.

Pinckney is an inspiration to anyone seeking to increase his or her fitness level.

20

Her Living • October/November 2011

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How She Did It Pinckney says she is not someone who “follows the rules,” but in this instance she did. She visited a local diet center, was given a diet to follow, and she didn’t cheat. Ever!

“If you follow it to a T, you will lose it,” she said. Now, that’s motivation!

Pinckney said, “I always told myself I wanted to lose weight. I always thought of myself as smaller than what I looked. My friends were doing the same program. They give you a program of food. They just give you a menu, a sheet of paper that tells you the foods you can eat. It is a very limited list.”

Pinckney added, “My friend in Lincoln was doing it. In one month, he lost 20 pounds by diet and exercise. You can’t have any chocolate. I knew there would not be any booze, but I was most worried about the chocolate. But I did fine. It limits carbs, and I think back now, and I think, ‘how did I do it?’” >> www.ReadOnlineNow.com

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To find out more visit www.nedonation.org or call (877) 633-1800 Her Living • October/November 2011

21

Feature Losing Weight Obviously, she did do it, and did it very well! Pinckney started her diet on June 18, 2010 (see before picture). She didn’t give in over the 4th of July—even with all those barbecues! Pinckney said (of summer), “It’s never a good time to lose weight. You have to be serious about it. You have to be committed, and you have to talk yourself through it.”

Pinckney would say things to herself like, “I would rather be skinny than eat that delicious chocolate shake and McDonald’s fries.”

Exercise Although she says she hates to exercise, Pinckney knew she had to work out to reach her goal. She said, “It’s quick, and you’ve done it. I was doing it six times a week. Settling into that new routine is tough, but once you get there it’s fine. I just made time for it. I would even workout on my lunch break. I was working 13-hour shifts at PayPal. They had a gym. At first, I felt awkward and large.”

She added, “I got a trainer at the tail end of it. I wanted to see some tone. I noticed a difference in my strength and tone. Then my sessions ran out. You can still do it without a trainer.”

Dating on a Diet How do you date on a diet? Pinckney said, “Dating was kind of hard…Suggesting things like, ‘oh, let’s go putt-putt golfing’. I would go out to the bars, but I wouldn’t drink. I would say, ‘Wow, everyone is drunk’.”

New Wardrobe As Pinckney got smaller, so did her clothing. She said, “The hardest thing about losing weight is your clothes don’t fit anymore. Now your skinny clothes are baggy. Every day your clothes are baggy.

[Getting new clothes] gets expensive. I cleaned out my closet and posted the pictures on Facebook to show how empty it was. I had so many comments on that.”

Pinckney said, “Shopping was scary. I’m young and don’t have an unlimited budget. It is really cool to go into my favorite stores: J. Crew, Express and Anthropologie. I never bought at Express. I didn’t wear jeans for three months because I didn’t want to buy clothes. I remember I wanted a pencil skirt, and I picked out a black wool skirt, and I grabbed a 12, and I had to get an 8, and I was like, ‘OMG, it zips!’”

She added, “Even my shoe size dropped! I bought a pair of Guess shoes and they were $70. I am going to have to get a whole new wardrobe, even underwear!”

Maintenance What motivates Pinckney now is the fear of going back to the way she was before. Although she has gained a little weight back, she has learned if she controls her portions and works out, she can control her weight.

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Her Living • October/November 2011

www.OmahaPublications.com

Cover Story: Tracy Madden-McMahon Story by Sandy Lemke • Photos by minorwhitestudios.com

Tracy Madden-McMahon .

Reporting From Home

www.ReadOnlineNow.com

T

racy Madden-McMahon built her career on telling stories as an anchor and reporter. Her ability to convey the news clearly and build rapport with the audience made her a well-established television personality.

A Wheaton, Ill., native, she spent 18 years in the television news business, earning awards and recognition along the way.

Madden-McMahon started at KDUH in Scottsbluff, Neb., in 1993. She worked at KHGI in Kearney, Neb., for two years before joining WOWT in 1996. >> Her Living • October/November 2011

23

Cover Story Tracy Madden-McMahon

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Her Living • October/November 2011

A results-driven, accomplished anchor in said, “Tracy brings to Methodist Hospital a good market, Madden-McMahon decided Foundation a wealth of experience in buildthat she had reached the pinnacle of the news ing relationships through public outreach business, her “dream job” in that field. “It’s and communications.” Peacock added, “I a wonderful job. Very interesting and chalbelieve her skills will complement our curlenging in lots of different ways.” rent Foundation team and will position us well for future endeavors.”

As much as she enjoyed the anchor position, at 40 and as the mother of young children, As a development executive, MaddenMadden-McMahon started to reassess her McMahon said being able to tell a compelling priorities in life. She and her husband, Sean, story is key. She said, “First and foremost, an executive with the Steier Group, have twin donors want to understand the impact of boys age 8, and a flame-haired daughter, 4. what they are able to do. This is a very impor“Once the boys got into school, I became the tant facet of my job.” mom who missed family things and trick-or-treatThe Methodist Hospital Foundation raises ing. I think as women, we often look for balance. funds not only for bricks and mortar, but Harmony is what I was looking for. I was always also for everyday expenses such as medication. A recent example looking to duck out. In is a request that came news, you just can’t do from a mother in hosthat.” She added, “I was feeling torn. I wasn’t living pice for a $25 book my priorities.” for a developmentally Madden-McMahon disabled daughter to understand the conreached out to a mentor, a course of action she cept of death. Although recommends to others this is a low financial who find themselves investment, it is a in a similar situation. major gift to the family.

“Find someone you “It doesn’t make it any trust, someone who less important,” said Madden-McMa hon. has your best interests at heart,” she said. It “We all have the ability was Cyndy Peacock, to make a difference, every gift is a major President and CEO of the Methodist Hospital gift,” she said.

Foundation. “We had Madden-McMahon Tracy Madden-McMahon with been friends for years. has her own personal husband Steve and children.

I took the plunge and story to tell about Methodist Hospital. “It’s very emotional called her. I told her that I had been struggling with trying to find the harmony in my life.” for me…,”she says. “I was 24 weeks pregMadden-McMahon said the conversation nant with twins, taking care of myself and exercising. I went in and they said, ‘You are helped her focus. “She was so generous with her time. We had lunch and after our conin labor, we need to admit you today.’ We versation, I came to the realization that if went up to the hospital. I was prescribed six I did work that mattered, and if I worked weeks of bed rest, and four of those weeks inpatient at Methodist.” with great people, all the rest would fall into Madden-McMahon said with a tear in her place—if I could get those two things right, I would fall into the right position.” eye, “The doctors and nurses and the staff are Following a resignation and a reorgania huge reason that we have two healthy boys today. They were born at 30 weeks, still early zation, a post came open at the Methodist Hospital Foundation. Peacock later contacted but they are okay because of the care I received.

Madden-McMahon and said “I think I have It is a labor of love to work here and an honor to represent Methodist. I experienced it.” the job for you.”

She added, “I feel blessed to have found Peacock announced the former anchor’s appointment to the Director of Development what I am meant to do at the place I am post in June. Of Madden-McMahon, Peacock meant to do it. It is a perfect fit.” www.OmahaPublications.com

Beauty Sheet Story by Jared Spence • Photos by minorwhitestudios.com • Model Josee, Select Model Management

Making . Faces

L

Highlight your best features with fall’s beauty trends

et’s face it, the average woman is always on the go, and all too often her hair and makeup get skimped on. After getting the kids ready or prepping for your morning meeting, you swipe on some lip gloss and eyeliner and call it good. Take this fall as a chance to make a commitment to yourself and get back to putting your best face forward.

Beauty doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Take a nod from the season’s best runway trends, including vintage-inspired ‘dos and sumptuous colors for the face, and take your beauty routine from the front seat of your car and rear-view mirror to Main Street.

Make every minute of your weekend count and step away from the monotony of your 9 to 5.

Whether you are having cocktails or running errands, there is fun to be had with your look.

Taking Care of Business You don’t have to draw a line between casual and sexy. Keep your look in the spotlight even as you run weekend errands. From walking the dog to grocery shopping at the farmers market, graphic eyeliner is a simple way to make a statement. Precise-lined lids let your eyes shine through. *Beauty Note: When wearing a minimal eye, just because you aren’t using any shadow does not mean you don’t need any further makeup. Apply a concealer or nude shadow to the lid to even out the skin tone.

Side-swept hair frames the face, and a knot and extra textured tresses keep it fun and flirty. www.ReadOnlineNow.com

A Night on the Town Be a little dramatic with a smoldering eye on your night out, but give it a little punch with an emerald green or amethyst shadow for a smokin’ hot look. *Beauty Note: With a smoky eye, remember to prep with a primer, then apply the lighter color first. Be sure to blend with a soft brush to avoid harsh lines.

A bun keeps you looking ladylike with a cool retro vibe, while the mussed texture balances out any saccharine sweet with an ease and toughness. *Beauty Note: When creating your bun, wherever you plan on pinning the hair, tease that spot to help secure the pins.

Hair and Makeup by Michael Hartig, Fringes Salon

Her Living • October/November 2011

25

Home DIY Story by Sandy Lemke

Repurpose . Renew!

Y

ou may think certain items in your home are worn down, worn out or ready to trade in or trade up. However, a little creative thinking and a few of the ideas below may help you realize that many are worth another go. If you have any more ideas, please share them with us on our Facebook page!

Lighting Don’t ditch your lamp before checking out new shades. Lampshades, that is. A new topper on your lamp can literally light up the room.

Shoes It’s amazing what a good shoe repair shop can do to make your shoes look just like new for a fraction of the cost of buying a new pair. From new heels to a quick polish job to a new sole, shoe repair shops are a recycler’s best friend.

Shoe repair shops can even renew old leather purses as well.

Crystal Crystal stemware can be renewed in several ways. Tarnished gold trim can be refreshed by LIGHTLY rubbing with a soft silver polishing cloth, or a soft cloth dipped in a heavily diluted amount of silver polishing cream. Again, go over the trim very, very lightly or it may permanently damage the trim. Then carefully wash and dry the stem.

If your stemware has lost its like-new luster, wash it in the sink with a splash of vinegar. Rinse and towel dry for a sparkling shine.

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Her Living • October/November 2011

Chairs Simple upholstery jobs can be accomplished with a heavy fabric and a staple gun. Stool tops are good candidates for such a job. www.OmahaPublications.com

Her Auto Tips Story by Darcie Dingman, Dingman’s Collision Center

F Furniture Oak tables can easily look dated.

Consider painting them a glossy white or black or strip down to natural wood for a modern look. Order a custom-sized glass top (these are not expensive) for protection from scuffs and glass marks.

Wicker Baskets It’s easy to find wicker baskets around the house. Make cheap baskets look chic by spray painting them a matching color (don’t do this to your Longabergers!).

Match them to your table setting or your accent color in your room or powder room.

Yard Items Spray paint ornamental iron items and metal planters with rustproof verdigre-color spray. They will look great and last a little longer.

Cabinets Change out the pulls and knobs to update your kitchen with just a few twists of the screwdriver.

www.ReadOnlineNow.com

illing up at the gas station is getting more and more expensive every day it seems. There are a few things that we can do, however, to get better gas mileage and make that stop less often.

Keep your vehicle in tip-top shape. Make sure that your engine is properly tuned, and only use the recommended grade of motor oil.

To increase your gas mileage, not only use the correct motor oil, but also look for motor oil that states it’s energy-conserving. Another often overlooked thing is emptying heavy items from your car’s trunk. A weighteddown car makes your vehicle have to work harder and use more gas. This affects smaller vehicles more than larger ones.

Properly inflated tires can also affect your gas mileage. Make sure that your tires are properly inflated; most of the time there’s a sticker on the driver’s door jamb that states the proper tire pressure for your vehicle.

How you drive can alter the gas mileage as well. Observing the speed limit makes a difference, as gas mileage steadily decreases at speeds above 60 mph. When on the highway, use cruise control. Driving at a consistent speed may reduce gas use. Also, avoid a lot of sudden braking and make sure to accelerate gradually. Turn off your vehicle when you are parked. Restarting your vehicle uses less gas than idling.

As gas prices steadily climb, it’s important that we do the things we can to improve our vehicle’s gas mileage. These are just a few tips to get you started.

If you have any questions about your vehicle or need advice, please visit our website at www.dingmans.com Her Living • October/November 2011

27

Home Redecorating Story by Bailey Hemphill • Photos by minorwhitestudios.com Andrea Tonniges, owner of The Humble Home; 5022 Leavenworth Street.

Refurbishing . Retailers

E

veryone wants a spectacular home with the latest interior design, but not everyone can afford an interior designer; and purchasing new furniture and home accessories can cost thousands that many budgets don’t include. Fortunately, there is a way to update your home’s interior without breaking the bank.

Forget about new and look to renew.

For people looking to spend little to no money with a do-it-yourself project, decorating can be as simple as repurposing the furniture you already have. For example, stacking old photo boxes or suitcases to make an end or coffee table. But for those willing to go the extra mile, it’s all about refurbishing your home! Penny-pinchers, beginner homeowners, and antique lovers alike will love this strategy because it’s cost-effective and will give a home a fresh, personalized vibe.

Two Omaha businesses, both owned by women, are perfect outlets for those wanting to refurbish their homes—The Humble Home and A&A Textiles.

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Her Living • October/November 2011

The Humble Home Andrea Tonniges, owner of The Humble Home, grew up around antiques. Her father owned a salvage yard for more than 40 years, so she learned the detailing that goes into refurbished pieces. After being overwhelmed with compliments on her refurbished work, she and her husband, Kyle, started The Humble Home. The Humble Home offers refurbishing services to anyone looking to update their current furniture into new pieces. The retail shop even sells repurposed items, unusual things, and mid-century modern pieces. In other words, if you’re looking for eclectic pieces to spice up your home décor, The Humble Home is a great place to start. The items in the shop are one-of-a-kind pieces that Tonniges finds interesting—items such as a 1949 General Electric refrigerator, and a funky golden lamp with the light inside of a flower, which Tonniges has nicknamed the ‘Liberace Lamp.’ She laughs, “Where are you going to find something like this? It’s gaudy!”- but in a good sense! As its diverse clientele indicates, The Humble Home has something for every design style.

The Humble Home • 5022 Leavenworth St. • 402-502-4860

www.OmahaPublications.com

Photos by Colin Conces & minorwhitestudios.com & provided by A&A Textiles Amanda & Alex, owners of A&A Textiles; 1111 N 13th Street, Mastercraft Building.

A&A Textiles A&A Textiles was started in late 2010 after Amanda Buchanan met Alex Fredrichs, who was then freelancing in graphic design and trying to start her own business. They both loved art and making life more beautiful, so they combined their skills of interior design and graphic art and began designing textiles and upholstery. Although A&A Textiles got its start on a commercial level, helping companies remodel and redesign their locations and producing high-end bags for boutiques and hotels, Buchanan says they are slowly becoming more involved with individuals who are looking to reupholster chairs, pillows, etc. “People are always welcome to buy patterned fabric or request custom patterns for reupholstering,” she says. Buchanan mentions that she is even redoing her own house right now, starting by designing patterns to update decorative pillows.

With the help of these two businesses, decorating your living space doesn’t have to cost a fortune, and can actually be quite an adventure.

A&A Textiles • 1111 N. 13th St. Mastercraft Building • 402-213-7399 www.ReadOnlineNow.com

Her Living • October/November 2011

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Her Living • October/November 2011

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epresentatives from LovelySkin.com and its founder, Joel Schlessinger, MD, are going to the 63rd Annual Primetime Emmy Awards on Sept. 18. They are partners for the Emmy Awards and will be celebrating at the Kari Feinstein Emmy Gifting Suite. Said Marianne Reiser of LovelySkin.com, “We’ll be giving the stars a gift box with a sample of our signature LovelySkin skincare line, our new hydrocortisone healing balms, and a few of our recommended favorites, including Colorescience makeup and Neocutis.”

Attending the Emmys from Omaha will be Dr. Schlessinger, Nancy Schlessinger, Director of Sales Cathy Hutfless, Office Manager Pam Storey, HR Manager Leigh Jenkins, and Events Coordinator Natasha Mohr.

In addition to the above gifts, they will be introducing a brand-new product. Said Reiser, “We are excited to be introducing the FixMySkin Healing Balms! These medicated balms contain 1% hydrocortisone cream that penetrates the skin and medically heals the skin from the inside out. They’re perfect for treating dry skin, cracks, eczema, psoriasis, and insect bites.

They come in a subtle vanilla flavor or unflavored option and in three convenient, compact sizes for easy carrying in a pocket, purse, or tote. The FixMySkin balms will be available in November, just in time for the cold Nebraska winter!” Sounds like a great item to take along on a ski trip or even a post-sledding outing right here in Nebraska.

Congratulations to the LovelySkin.com team on their exciting trip to the Emmys! www.OmahaPublications.com

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Her Living • October/November 2011 31 Contact our Marketing Department at 402-504-7185 • www.LiveGreenThinkBlue.com

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Look & Feel Your Best Look & Feel Your Best Dr. Schlessinger and his team have the unique ability to present you with complete skincare solutions for every aspect of your life. We offer general dermatology and cosmetic surgery services at our main Dr. Schlessinger and his team have the unique ability to present you with complete skincare solutions office, as well as a selection of makeup and cosmeceuticals (cosmetics with pharmaceutical benefits) for every aspect of your life. We offer general dermatology and cosmetic surgery services at our main at our LovelySkin retail store. Medical grade spa treatments are available at LovelySkin Spa and office, as well as a selection of makeup and cosmeceuticals (cosmetics with pharmaceutical benefits) LovelySkin Spa Express. at our LovelySkin retail store. Medical grade spa treatments are available at LovelySkin Spa and LovelySkin Spa Express.

Copyright Š 2011, Skin Specialists, P.C. Copyright Š 2011, Skin Specialists, P.C.

Introducing our LovelySkin Retail Store A new retail concept by Dr. Joel Schlessinger Introducing our LovelySkin Retail Store A new retail concept by Dr. Joel Schlessinger

Over 7,000 products from 170 manufacturers 402-697-6565 | 2929 Oak View Drive Over 7,000 products from 170 manufacturers www.LovelySkin.com/Shop 402-697-6565 | 2929 Oak View Drive www.LovelySkin.com/Shop

General Dermatology | Cosmetic Dermatology 402-697-6565 | 2802 Oak View Mall Drive General Dermatology | Cosmetic Dermatology www.LovelySkin.com 402-697-6565 | 2802 Oak View Mall Drive www.LovelySkin.com