Sophie Woman's Magazine July 2011 LKN

VOLUME 7 - ISSUE 5 / JULY 2011 / LKN

S

phie

Wo m a n ’ s M a g a z i n e

INSIDE:

“Changes”~ Dealing with My Postpartum Depression | Page 7 Reaching Your Full Potential ~ The Lazy Woman’s Guide To Achievement | Page 12 A Mom’s Dream ~ How I was influenced by a teacher years after school | Page 17 shutterbuggerz pg 23

INSPIRATION ~ EDUCATION ~ MOTIVATION

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essage M From The Editor: Judy Smith

Our May 2011 Winners

from the

How good are you at history? That is one subject that I really did not care that much for; well, one of the subjects anyway. Honestly though, it just did not come easy for me and one reason might have been that I couldn’t figure out why I needed to know that stuff. So, I decided with this being the month that we celebrate Independence Day, I would teach you some history. I loved that MOVIE! OK….so I wasn’t talking about a movie. But since I brought it up, did you know that the invasion from the aliens in the movie started on July 2nd? That is sort of interesting because of the date of July 2nd. Even though Independence Day is more commonly associated with fireworks, barbecues, baseball games, family reunions, political speeches and ceremonies, Independence Day is the national day of the United States of America. So why is July 2nd interesting? That is the date the resolution of independence was approved in a closed session of Congress.

According to history, during the American Revolution, the legal separation of the Thirteen Colonies from Great Britain occurred on July 2, 1776, when the Second Continental Congress voted to approve a resolution of independence that had been proposed in June by Richard Henry Lee of Virginia. After voting for independence, Congress turned its attention to the Declaration of Independence, a statement explaining the decision, with Thomas Jefferson as its principal author.

Congress then debated and revised the Declaration with it’s final approval on July 4th.

John Adams had written to his wife Abigail saying “The second day of July, 1776, will be the most memorable epoch in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more.”

Adams’s prediction was off by two days. From the outset, Americans celebrated independence on July 4, the date shown on the much-publicized Declaration of Independence, rather than on July 2, the date the resolution of independence was approved in a closed session of Congress. So now that I taught you that, or if you were smart and already knew that, then I have another historical question for you. What color was the uniforms of the Red Coats?

They ought to do a movie and let Jeff Goldblum be the one who brings about Freedom from Great Britain. He was great in the “other” Independence Day. Randy Quaid was my favorite character in the movie though. I love underdog heroes. Don’t you? The colonies were the underdog in the American Revolution but look at what a force it became.

I fear so often, we just take for granted the life we have in our country. It’s not perfect, I know, but look at what we aren’t. We don’t have a dictator who murders the citizens if they don’t agree with him. Most of us get more than enough to eat each and every day and most of us have a comfortable bed to sleep in. You and I have the right to choose what we believe, say what we believe and live what we believe. What a precious gift that has been for the last couple hundred of years but it did not come without a price…a very high price!

Over the years, I have come to appreciate history; especially if I can visit the places that brings it all to life. If you have never been to Boston or Philadelphia and you get the chance, you must go.

That was one trip that brought history alive for me. So, I have another question for you. We all know who Paul Revere was, right? What was the name of his horse?

I see it now. Everyone is scratching their heads, saying to themselves, “I know I should know that”. So I ask you that as we celebrate July 4th, whether we are at the beach soaking in the sun or we are standing on the George Washington bridge watching the National fireworks, let’s thank God for our FREEDOM! One thing I want to finish with. I loved Will Smith in the “other” Independence Day when he was dragging the “stinkin” creature across the dessert and asking it “what is that smell”? Just a few people saved the whole world and yet millions flocked to see that movie. Thousands upon thousands have really died for our Freedom so let’s not be afraid to teach some history.

By the way, Paul Revere didn’t own a horse. It was borrowed! In full disclosure, most of the “facts” you will find in Wikipedia.■

Pro Winner: Kandy Jordan Photography

Amateur Winner: Deidra Powell

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Going through Postpartum Depression and the changes .

14| Box

The Male

Remember the reasons why you get to celebrate Independence Day.

by Wayne Deloriea

Girlfriends | 15 In God

Keep Watch!. by Gwen Smith

Mom’s | 17 Dream

How my teacher inspired me to travel long after I left school.

by Marilyn Nutter

11| Granny

Lessons for

“Need Help, Please”

by Granny Stef

16| Is This It? Marriage:

Try these methods to increase your compatibility.

by Dr. Susan Flowers PhD

22| Break The Rules

pg 3 | Message From The Heart pg 8 | How To Be Fabulous - by Gracie pg 9 | Truth & Beauty - by Teresa Pope

pg 23

Go Wild!

There are some design rules that can be broken.

Written by Susan Guest

m o t i va t i o n

Mandy’s

education

INSPIRATION

7| Misadventures

12| Full Potential

Reaching Your

The Lazy Woman’s Guide To Achievement. by Kim Fletcher

13| Women...

Sophisticated

Are you leading yourself Well?

by Nicole Greer

21| Inc.

Me, Myself, &

Time Alignment Gives You Greater Independence.

By Sherré Demao

pg 18 | The Wedding Planner Guide pg 20 | Pearls & Petticoats

| "fatherhood” photos from shutterbuggerz.com

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Sophie Woman’s Magazine / July 2011

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DENISE LEVAN

OWNER/INSTRUCTOR

LOCATED AT: 401 N. CENTER ST. STATESVILLE, NC 704-872-6438

s e r u t n e v d a s Mi ’s y d n a M

“Changes”

It has been a hectic month for us, but a good one.

Life has taken some unexpected – as well as difficult – turns that left our little family wondering where, exactly, we belong.

As it turns out, the answer was “home.”

As in North Carolina home.

It’s taken us a lot of heartache and some questioning to get to the point where we’re willing to give up everything and make the unsure journey back to where we started, but we feel like we’re doing the right thing.

Probably the biggest obstacle for us in all of this was my struggle with post partum depression.

I haven’t been comfortable in talking about it for a long time, mainly because it was such an earth shattering period for me that I wanted to close my eyes and hope that somehow I would wake up again and it would all be forgotten. But, if there’s one thing I’ve learned from all of this, it’s that not only do our life experiences serve to shape us, it’s how we react to those hard times that make us who we are.

What I don’t ever want to be known for is being someone who’s so paralyzed by fear that I didn’t seize every opportunity given to me to learn or somehow be an encouragement to others.

If there’s one thing that I had never thought twice about or understood the gravity of, it’s post partum depression. I’ve heard people talk about it before – little whispers between friends of so and so who was having a rough time with post partum depression – and I’d seen books on the subject, but I’d never been face to face with it.

The truth of it was enough to leave me reeling – like a shove off of a cliff that sent me free falling into bottomless darkness. The panic and fear and endless guilt at not being able to hold myself together as I thought I should were enough to make me question my sanity on more than one occasion.

I can remember, at my lowest point, thinking that if this was the rest of my life, then I didn’t want to shame my children by leaving them a heritage of madness. Thankfully, my desire to see them grow was sharper than any blade.

I think the hardest part out of all of this was the absolute flippancy with which most of my requests for help were met with.

I met with doctors and therapists – I was even hospitalized after one scary incident in which I couldn’t still my racing thoughts and tried to run away from home - all of which told my husband and me that the best thing for us would be moving closer to

family, as we had no support where we were. My husband spent days looking for jobs closer to home, and eventually asked for a transfer, offering to take lower paying openings if only we could be somewhere near our families or some help.

We were shocked and devastated when each request was met with the words “It’s only post partum; she’ll be over it in a year or two.” Meanwhile, I was drowning, willing to throw away anything of value if I could just breathe again.

As the days marched on, and I stayed fast in the grip of this depression without help or support, I packed up my belongings and left my husband to go to Florida. I can remember the first time that I went, Chris coming to get me, to convince me to come home.

I told him that I couldn’t go back to that place. In all honesty, I didn’t know if I even wanted to live anymore, I was so frightened by everything. The littlest disturbance in my day and sometimes nothing at all - could send me into a panic attack that would only be stopped by medicine and someone to talk me through it. I truly felt insane, and for the loss of my mind I couldn’t forgive myself.

It would take many sessions with a marriage counselor and one more time of my leaving home for us to realize that we really couldn’t go on like that.

By that time my moods had leveled somewhat, and the panic attacks were all but gone. The issue was more that I could not live in isolation anymore, and I wasn’t willing to take “no” for an answer. I think that by that time I was in survival mode, and I would do anything to ensure that I made it out alive.

As it stood, I was constantly alone, with only these raging emotions and sleepless nights to fuel whatever I had left to give to mothering. I’m ashamed to say that Chris himself received even less. Still, he made the trip out to Florida to try and convince me to stay with him, and it was there that we both realized that we couldn’t fight this monster on our own.

Not an easy conclusion to come to, I can assure you.

Chris petitioned his boss one last time to let us transfer, and the answer was the same, only this time with an added “If you need to leave, that’s understandable.” So, we did just that.

Where we’ll go from here is uncertain, but we’re hopeful.

Above all, we’re together and surrounded by people who love us, which is proving to be more valuable than anything we could have ever imagined. www.sophiewomansmagazine.com

i n s p i r at i o n

by Mandy Thomas

7

HOW TO BE FABULOUS! Visions of bronzed bodies in floral sundresses, espadrilles and long flowing hair… the fragrance of coconut oil and pina coladas in the air… Ahh, summertime. NOT! It’s reality check time. Most of us, although normally FABULOUS, do not quite fit this “picture of perfection”. If I were to add: sweat, bugs, flip flops, and screaming children… then we’re good. Oh, and who has time to make frozen drinks?? No worries, pineapple and vodka on the rocks works too.

However, where there’s a will (and a credit card), there’s a way! This month I am going to share some brilliant tips on how to look “cool”, when you feel like melting.

If I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a million fabulous ways. Dresses are the key that unlocks that inner fashion diva! The perfect maxi or mini dress is easy, comfy, and appropriate at almost every occasion.

It is important to choose the right length. Ok ladies, this is the part where I make a few women cringe and run to their closets. Are you ready? Deep breath. Any item that is longer than the bottom of Photo courtesy of www.nichollancasterphotography.com

by Gracie

your knees and shorter than your ankles is, in my opinion glamour DON’T! Yes, brace yourself. That means Capri’s too. <Gracie “semi-scientific” experiment:> 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Have your average size American woman (size 12-14) put on a pair of Capri’s, or a dress falling at mid calf.

Take photo Have some Fab woman put on a pair of shorts ending right above the knee, or a maxi dress.

Take photo.

Say “Wow, that Gracie chick is ALWAYS RIGHT”. (Bob, honey, are you reading this?)

Have super model do the same.

Repeat step 5.

Trust me girls, the proof is in the bread puddin’!

Fabric is crucial when not wanting to look like you have been chasing rug rats around in 90˚ weather. Jude Conally is a great line that sells dresses made from moisture wicking material. Basically, while being virtually impossible to wrinkle (so essential for travel) they’re also safe to throw in the wash, and they keep you refreshed!

Never let ‘em see you sweat!

Another must for this sweltering season is “steamin’ hot” wedges.

Sexy, sexy sexy! Find a pair that makes the statement “Was that a firecracker, or did I just walk in the room?” Kaboom! I adore the styles from “Missoni” and “Naughty Monkey “… daring, yet wearable. A well made shoe should feel luxurious on your pedicured tootsies. Do not settle for a cheap uncomfortable pair because blisters are not chic on anyone. Please be forewarned, wedges do not ‘gire’.

Therefore, if you are walking on an uneven surface, be careful! There is a reason my hubby nicknamed me “Grace-ie”. Yeah, he thinks his sarcasm is funny.

Lastly, is a shocking Gracie Summer “DO”… Blue Jeans! Now, I don’t mean “jeans, jeans”, I mean the blue jean dresses, skirts, tops, and jackets. Nothing says “Fabulous” like a sun dress with a vintage jean jacket! I recommend this look for casual evenings. I would hate to see any of you divas passed out from heat stroke at lunch! Another suggestion is to add some flirty fun jewelry like a hand blown, glass, flower necklace.

Circa 1970 (see pic).

So break out the sweet tea (also easy cocktail with vodka on rocks!! Just sayin’), and enjoy the tropical climate while exuding the confidence of a woman who knows how to keep her cool. …..Sizzle Baby!

Gail Sommer Germain, aka “Gracie”, is wife to Bob, mom to Sydney (15) and Robbie (11), and a Statesville, NC resident. She starts her day at her barn… but finishes by being a boutique owner and personal fashion stylist to some incredibly fabulous women!

8

Sophie Woman’s Magazine / July 2011

TRUTH

& BEAUTY

by Teresa Pope, Esthetician

Question: Each summer I like to get as dark of a tan as I possibly can.

I go to the tanning bed 4 times per week and I am in the natural sun every weekend. Everyone tries to tell me to stop tanning so much, but I’m 28 and my skin looks great and I’ve never had skin cancer. Is tanning really so bad and which is worse, tanning beds or natural sunlight?

Answer: TAN is a four letter word to skincare professionals. Constant exposure to UVB (the burning) and UVA (the aging) rays will wreak havoc on your skin. Both are found in natural sunlight and in indoor tanning units. Exposure to these rays will cause the skin to age, wrinkle, and sag, due to the fact that UVA and UVB rays cause free radicals to break down the collagen in our skin. They can cause skin cancers that can lead to death. The reason you haven’t noticed any of these effects as of now, is simple because you are only 28. The damage to your skin is down deep inside and the signs of what you are doing to your skin today, may not show up until your late 30’s and then it is to late. Once the damage is done, it can’t be undone. Sure, you can have laser treatments and cosmetic surgery, but why put yourself through the pain and expense of such corrective procedures. However, even with those procedures, you can’t put yourself back the way you would have been before the damage occurred. There is a way to see the damage that is deep inside your skin.

Using a machine called Visia Skin Analysis, this device will actually take a photo of the damaged beneath the skin. Please let me warn you

in advance; it is a scary picture! Most Dermatologist and Aestheticians will have one of these machines and some will do the photo for free. My advice to you would be the same as it is to my clients. First, Always wear a sunscreen of at least 15 SPF when in natural sunlight. Second, If you must tan, then tan indoors in a controlled environment, but only to get a base tan, to keep you from burning when you are outdoors. Tanning maybe damaging, but a sunburn is extremely damaging. Just a few tanning sessions at the beginning of the season should suffice. Third, Don’t tan all year long, limit your tanning days to Spring and Summer.

Finally, my best advice would be not to tan at all. Maybe all of us should take a cue from one of the most beautiful women of all time. Marilyn Monroe, never tanned. When asked, Why? She simple replied, “I like to be blonde all over!”

Extra tip: Each month I am honored to write the Truth and Beauty column for Sophie. These articles contain beauty information about hair, skin, nails and all things in between. However this month I wanted to include a beauty tip from the Bible. The Bible teaches us that there isn’t anything wrong with women trying to be as pretty as we can be, but it does warn us, not to let it be the most important focus of our lives.

The Bible teaches us that we should spend even more time trying to be beautiful on the inside. We should cultivate in our lives things such as: Kindness, Gentleness, Patience, and Forgiving others, while at the same time we should weed out flaws such as: Anger, Hatred, Jealousy, Lying and Slander. In fact the word “devil” means slanderer and accuser. We are taught in God’s Word, not to bring false witness against anyone, and to lie about someone is one of the things God hates. (Proverbs 6:16-19) So in our daily routines of exercise, beauty regiments, plucking, shaving, styling etc. lets make a conscience effort to work as much on our inward appearance as we do our outward appearance, so when people look on us, they see “Jesus” and not the “devil”. Good luck and God bless us in our new “true” beauty regiment.

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Sophie Woman’s Magazine / July 2011

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Lessons For Granny “Need Help Please!”

Can I ever write enough words to express how blessed I am to have my precious grandson Walker in my life? Probably not. Each day, each moment I am privileged to get to spend with him brings new joys, new laughs, and new moments to be amazed by this wonderful creature that our good Lord has placed in my life.

In four days, Walker will be twenty months old. He’s going to be a big brother in September. Although he hasn’t quite comprehended it all, he smiles when asked about it and told me just yesterday he wants a baby sister. Now keep in mind, he doesn’t really understand this but I like to think he and I are on the same wavelength on this one.

His vocabulary is ever-increasing. I’ve been told I talk too much on more than one occasion and I’ve also been told that since I was an English teacher that this has aided in Walker’s abilities to express himself. Oh well; worse things have been said about me. Hopefully he won’t hear of them!

Most of his sentences consist of between one and three words. He knows how to say “Sorry” when he has done something offensive or hurtful. He often exclaims “Good song” after we have listened to his CD that has tunes about Jesus on it. “More” is frequently said when the CD doesn’t advance quickly enough or as—believe it or not—when he and I sing together. One word he learned early was the “n” one: no. His tone of voice is comical to hear when he speaks this one, especially if asked if he’s ready to take a nap. He’ll look solemnly at me as he says it, grab my hand, and lead me to the kitchen for “lunch” (his main word for food or snack) or to another room in the house to avoid this time where he won’t be able to play. Once I get him snuggled up with me, his avoidance issues continue so we have to “talk” or “pray” or “sing” until the boy is finally sleepy. After awakening, he will ask “Nap? Good nap, Granny?”

Of course he is polite. He was taught “Yes sir and yes ma’am” at an early age. However, he often catches himself as he is learning to decipher between males and females and has to switch the ending. “Please” is also a word he uses often, as is “’Scuse me.” But the word he says that catches my attention the most is when he says “Help.” He can be playing with his trucks and need some assistance with opening the sides to let out all of the vehicles. It may be that as he is learning to feed himself that

he will ask for aid with his spoon or fork. Sometimes he responds to others as they have needs, such as the time when my husband Steve was moving some lumber and Walker watched him and grabbed the other end of the wood and they moved it together. I’ll ask him to help me with the laundry (which he very willingly does!). He grabs one side of the basket and I the other as we together carry it to the laundry room.

All in all, Walker is quite the helper and has a good attitude about it.

Sometimes though, a little more attention is required and he will add this second word: need. “Need help” he will state. Not demand. Not whine about. He just says it matter-of-factly, such as when he can’t get his straw open on his Capri Sun juice pouch or when he is putting his shoes on. It’s a more direct declaration and my heart just leaps when he says it to me. Why? They are just two words, simply spoken. Maybe it’s the look on his face as he stares up at me, knowing his request will not only be responded to immediately but also without anger or any fear that he has asked too many times for too many things. He states what he wants to the best of his ability and expects a response, a positive response, and sure, if he doesn’t get it, he cries. He’s still a baby, you know. However, it’s a rare time when his pronouncements aren’t answered in the way in which he assumes they will be. Once his need has been met, he goes on about his business. Until the next time he wants or needs something. Then he will again, without hesitation, make his request known. He knows whom to go to.

This tiny toddler has once again shown me how simple it all is. “…unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:3). It is written in Matthew 19:14, “But Jesus said, “Let the children alone, and do not hinder them from coming to Me; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”” We adults make things too complicated. Just ask and like a child, like my sweet Walker, receive. Is it any wonder I often sing the song “You Are So Beautiful To Me” to him? Through Walker I see myself as Jesus sees me. Not as a hindrance but as a child who has a Father waiting to love her the way I love Walker—only more so. Hard to imagine but oh so true. What wonderful words to live by!

www.sophiewomansmagazine.com

e d u c at i o n

by Granny Steff

11

REACHING YOUR FULL POTENTIAL: The Lazy Woman’s Guide To Achievement

by Kim Fletcher, Life Coach, Author, Speaker

m o t i va t i o n

R

ecently, I came across a writing idea that I had played around with several years ago. It made me smile as the title, The Lazy Woman’s Guide to Achievement, reminded me of my days of transition out of traditional eight to five life and into the adventure of my own business. In those early days, I napped more, vacationed more, and got called “lazy” a time or two.

For those of you who work from home, you may be able to relate…

People don’t really believe you are working when your office is at home! And people are not always supportive when they see you creating a life that they cannot quite lay hold of.

In this day of stress levels and change reaching all time highs, I think we are all in need of an innovative way to achieving maximum fulfillment with minimal effort.

Perhaps it is time to take an unconventional look at achievement.

I have embraced the ‘smart, not hard’ approach to life and work. I hope these three simple tips will empower you to focus on the truly important, unleash your creativity, invest in people, and be directed by clear personal vision. You will begin to feel the difference in your life immediately as you choose to Abandon Regret, live out your Renegade Ambition, and re-define Unconventional Achievement in a way that works for you and those you care most about.

STEP ONE: Abandon Regret!

Many would say that it is impossible to live a life of NO regrets.

While that may be true, when was the last time you stopped to consider simple steps you can take to minimize the regret in your own life?

What would need to happen in order to guarantee living a life of minimal regret and maximal impact?

This life is…

• Focused on the truly important • Full of gratitude • People centered • Lived in the present moment • Directed by clear personal vision • Unencumbered by grudges, bitterness and un-forgiveness Stop and take a few moments to ‘coach yourself’ through each bullet point. How are you doing in that area? What is one small, manageable step you can begin incorporating immediately to strengthen that area?

For example, are you ‘full of gratitude’? Regardless of your current level of gratitude, what can you do today to express and increase your thankful spirit?

STEP TWO: Begin living out your “Renegade Ambition” Many of us struggle because we find ourselves living life from a place of obligation. We fail to listen to our own ‘inner agenda’, making us easy targets for control and manipulation of our time, resources and focus. Living out your “Renegade Ambition” is not about being careless or selfish. It is about stewarding the life God has given you.

We need to take time to re-define our deepest ambition… what drives us, what inspires us, what we are here to accomplish. In doing so, we will come in contact with the life we were meant to live!

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Sophie Woman’s Magazine / July 2011

This life is…

• About being a pioneer • Trading traditional methods that are not working for you with better systems • To find deep motivation by investing in your passions • Being more gentle with yourself in a harsh world • Tapping into your creativity • Structure your life to maximize FREEDOM • Increase your commitment to integrity and personal excellence regardless of what others are doing Again, stop and ‘coach yourself’ through each bullet point. How are you doing in that area? What is one small, manageable step you can begin incorporating immediately?

Finally, STEP THREE: Re-define “Unconventional Achievement” We live in a society that is quick to define achievement for you … often in ways that just do not fit your desired approach to life. But we fall prey to the lure of ‘fitting in’, looking the part, and defining personal success based on material and physical achievements.

But at the end of the day, are you fulfilled? Are you going about life in a way that leaves you excited to awaken and begin a new day?

Perhaps it is time to take an unconventional look at achievement … it may even be time to redefine ‘achievement’ in a way that really works for you and those you care most about.

This life is…

• About embracing the smart, not ‘hard’, approach to living • Defining true wealth apart from your bank account • Living with an urgency that says “Today really matters!”

• Schedule some time off and realize that doing so makes you more productive!

• Throw away your ‘To Do’ list and focus on making the most of the next 10 minutes Finally, stop and ‘coach yourself’ through each bullet point. How are you doing in that area? What is one small, manageable step you can take today to strengthen that new perspective?

Now, as you wrap up, take a few moments to journal on how you believe your life would change if you actually took the steps you have considered here.

My heart is for the lazy days of summer to find you returning to a way of life that takes time to swim, barbeque with loved ones, and celebrate the blessings that lay hidden in your days. ■ Kim Fletcher is the CEO and Lead Life Coach with Kim Fletcher & Associates. Kim passionately coaches individuals to develop a style of leadership that others are compelled to follow. Contact Kim directly to learn more about crafting your own life of impact. Email: kimfletchercoach@aol.com / Web: creativelifenavigation.com (NEW site!) / 828 327 6702.

Sophisticated Women...

By definition, a sophisticated woman has followers. Individuals are drawn to you. Your attitude, the way you carry yourself, and the energy you bring to every situation is intentional.

Or is it?

Are you leading yourself well?

Over the last two weeks, I had the privilege and honor to participate in leadership training with The Center for Creative Leadership located in Greensboro, NC as part of Rotary’s Seminar for Tomorrow’s Leaders, a summer leadership experience for outstanding rising juniors and seniors. The Center for Creative Leadership is an amazing ‘top ten in the world leadership training organization’ that serves CEOs of major corporations, nonprofits, and government entities. They define leadership with a ‘Seat of Leadership’ model. The seat of leadership is a simple three-legged stool. The three legs of leadership are: direction, alignment, and commitment. To be a sophisticated woman you must have a compelling vision or direction for your life. When you know what you really want and can point yourself in the right direction, it’s amazing what unfolds.

Direction is the first leg in the stool. A sophisticated woman must choose a path or life will choose one for her.

Consider Amy for a moment. Her life started strong. She had a loving family growing up in the suburbs of the mid-west. She attended West Point. She was a diving champion. She married.

She had three beautiful children. Out of nowhere comes divorce.

Thrown off her path, Amy didn’t know what to do. She cried. She prayed. For a period of time, she lost her direction. Then one day, Amy remembered who she was. She knew the right people loved her. She knew there was a champion inside who works hard. She chose a new path and took her next right step. She had direction.

The second leg in the stool, alignment, is key to the success of the sophisticated woman’s future.

Amy decided to take her hard won engineering degree dust it off and put it to work. With her mission in hand, Amy developed a resume, which landed her a job in a Fortune 500 company. She aligned her home schooling skills with big business. Amy is creative, resourceful and well… sophisticated. In her first year back in the work force, she won inventor of the year.

The third leg in the stool is commitment. The sophisticated woman must gain commitment to her personal vision.

Now with Amy’s tremendous success, she was poised to ask for what she really wanted. So, she did. Having won the support of colleagues and a reputation for being innovative, she began

sharing her strengths, her talents, and her personal vision with key people who could help her move in the direction she desired.

When Amy had to give up her role as teacher home schooling her children, she was devastated. If you ask her the most painful part of the divorce proceeding, she’ll tell you it was the day the judge told her “You will put your children in public school.”

You see Amy’s mission is to: Uncover the truth and make it known. It was absolute delight for her to show her children how to write, how to do math and how to experiment around how things work. She was forced off her path but she got herself back in the simple seat of leadership. Amy now travels and teaches across the United States sharing the truth. She is to be celebrated.

She is a great example to follow. She is sophisticated.

Take these powerful questions into consideration, sit in the seat of leadership and create a new intention to be a sophisticated woman.

• Do you have a personal mission statement that guides you in the right direction?

• Are you taking your skills, strengths, and past accomplishments and aligning them with your present and future roles?

• Have you shared your vision through your words and actions and asked key individuals commitment to support your dreams?

m o t i va t i o n

By Nicole Greer, PPCC Founder and Principle Coach at Vibrant Coaching

Are Leaders

Let’s get started…

Nicole Greer, PPCC is a professional life and business coach. She works with the TILT360 Leadership Model, that Gramma Myrt embodied. You too can be a woman of character and bring the Art of FULL TILT leadership to your life and your organization.

At its deepest level, working with a coach frees you to indentify your birthright gifts, discern your deepest passions, and fulfill your highest purpose. A coach can pry you off dead center. As Principal Coach for Vibrant Coaching and Workshop Leader for The Lydia Group, LLC, a collaboration of individuals focused on work, life and spiritual growth, Nicole is on a mission to impact, energize, and influence people to lead a Vibrant Life by engaging the possibilities. As a life and business coach and workshop leader, Nicole views her role as a conduit to release all that you want to achieve. Join me on the PATH to move forward with authenticity, skill and confidence. www.thevibrantcoach.com/www.thelydiagroup.com

www.sophiewomansmagazine.com

13

THE

MALE BOX

I N S P I R AT I O N

by Wayne DeLoriea

14

Well, it’s Independence Day once again. July 4th, the day we celebrate our national freedom. As a veteran of the Vietnam era (U.S.A.F. 1971-75) I wonder if we, as a society, truly know what those words mean…”Our National Freedom”.

Let me begin by saying, “Hooah” to active and inactive military brothers and sisters everywhere. For those of you who do not know that word, there are several theories for where it came from, but the U.S. Marine Corps believes it probably came from the French and German professional soldiers we had training our continental army during the revolution. Most likely, a “hurrah” was a praise from a Hessian or French training officer for a job well done or lesson learned. So.”Hooah” for a job well done.

What is this freedom we all talk about but many don’t understand. I hear young people say, “It’s a free country” all the time…but is it? This freedom we celebrate and the rest of the world drools over comes at a very high cost. Freedom is soaked in the blood of valor and drips with the tears of families that have paid the ultimate price. Benjamin Franklin said, “ Those who desire to give up freedom in order to gain security will not have, nor do they deserve, either one.” What are our freedoms?

Well, because I am so limited in space here is a link to the Bill Of Rights with its 27 amendments. We should all get to know them…after all, Abraham Lincoln said, “Democracy is the government of the people, by the people, and for the people.”

We honor the sacrifice by knowing why it is made. Freedom is NEVER given…it is WON and that means that there will always be those who want to take it from us.

You may have plans to cook out, go to a baseball game, spend time on the water, set off or watch fireworks and if you plan to do it with family…then Hooah! I don’t know if there ever was a soldier that didn’t first go to fight for family. When you celebrate family, you honor the price of freedom. I have heard it said that Liberty is the right to choose and Freedom comes from making the right choices. No government can take your freedoms more quickly than your own. Do not be so watchful of other governments that you overlook the leaders we put in Washington DC. Keep our leaders accountable by knowing what they do. You cannot know what is going on in our nation’s capitol just by watching the evening news. We must all get involved. The person who said that the two topics of discussion most likely to make your friend into an enemy are religion and Sophie Woman’s Magazine / July 2011

politics, was probably one of those who would like to see your freedoms taken away. By talking and becoming passionate about religion and politics we protect and refine our national freedoms.

These are the topics we MUST all discuss and come to love and be willing to die for.

It’s easy to take liberty for granted, when you have never had it taken from you.

Let’s all make a personal oath to ourselves and our children to become aware, develop an interest and keep accountable the government we HIRE to keep us free.

Happy Independence Day…Hooah!

National Director of Activity and Exercise for Meridian Senior Living, Owner & Operator of Coach’s CORE Fitness Studio, former NASCAR Coach, Master Fitness Instructor, Personal Trainer and Sports Nutritionist Wayne DeLoriea, one of NASCAR’s most successful coaches, certified in 80 countries around the world and author of “Coach Without A Whistle” and “$elling Your$elf…There’s Magic In the Approach”, joins nchealthylifestyles to help you realize and attain your nutrition and fitness goals.

You may contact Coach at: www.deloriea.com

Keep Watch!

Today’s Truth

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith… (1 Peter 5:8-9a, NIV).

Friend to Friend

I was really excited that evening because I actually had a fun dinner plan … which is not always the case. There was some grilled chicken left over from dinner the night before, so I decided to bust out my griddle and whip up some yummy grilled chicken quesadillas – a simple, yet very popular Smith-family delicacy. I know: it’s a crazy-easy make, but for some reason my kids think I’m a genius when quesadillas are on the menu. Go figure.

I grabbed a knife, a chopping board, and the leftover chicken from the fridge. Minutes later, the chicken was ready for it’s cheese and tortilla companions. While the griddle was heating up, I turned my attention to a few other family matters. I don’t even remember what those matters were. It might have been a buzzer, noising from the laundry room – alerting me of dry clothes that needed hung. I might have turned away to set the table or perhaps I had to intervene between my children who perpetually struggle to keep their hands to themselves. Whatever it was that drew my attention away from dinner prep was innocent – normal stuff – nothing out of the ordinary.

When I turned back to the business of quesadilla making, confusion gripped me as an empty cutting board glared at me. With an eyebrow raised quizzically, I asked my husband if he had moved my chicken.

“No Honey. I haven’t touched your chicken.” He replied, with a twinkle in his eye.

Hmmmmm. A chicken mystery. How odd.

I grew a bit anxious and quickly began to interview each of my children, “Did you take the chicken off the cutting board?”

“No Mom. I didn’t touch the chicken.” They said one after another.

I wondered, “If I didn’t move the chicken and my family didn’t move the chicken, then where is my chicken?” I looked around the room once more just to be sure that I hadn’t simply placed the chicken somewhere else.

Then I saw it … a look of guilt. A look that screamed and pleaded, “Yes! I took your chicken, but please don’t be angry with me. It smelled so good and … and … I’m a big dog – I need my nourishment. Was it wrong? Okay. I know it was wrong. Please forgive me. I did it. I ate your chicken. I’m sorry. I’d like to go to my crate now…”

His ears lowered as my eyes met his. My brows furrowed. “Rocky!

YOU ate my chicken! Bad dog!” I lamented in frustration as I began to make a new dinner plan…

Rocky’s just a dog. He’s not out to get me and he didn’t mean to mess up our dinner plans, but he did prey on our family meal that night. He came and took what wasn’t his because I had let my guard down. I wasn’t watching over my chicken.

As believers in Jesus Christ, you and I must guard our hearts and watch over our homes. The Bible warns Christians to keep watch.

Beyond things seen, there are spiritual battles taking place around us continually. If you are a believer and follower of Jesus Christ, then you

have an enemy and his name is Satan. If you live to listen to the voice of Jesus, the Good Shepherd, then strap on your battle gear, girlfriend, because your enemy has a mission to destroy you. Beware!

In the New Testament book of John, chapter 10, Jesus identified himself as the exclusive way to our salvation – as the Gate for the sheep of God – as the One who loves, leads and rescues us. In John 10:10, Jesus warns that though His plan for us is protection, love and help, the enemy … Satan … “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they might have life, and have it to the full.”

The Bible has a lot to say about this. It tells us time and time again to be alert to the schemes of Satan. To keep watch. “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith…”(1 Peter 5:8-9a, NIV).

Though we have an enemy with a real plan to mess with our emotions, our health, our marriages, our children, our relationships and our thoughts, we are not without help or hope. We have both. God’s power and protection are readily available to believers, 24/7. “But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen and protect you from the evil one” (2 Thessalonians 3:3, NIV).

“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people” (Ephesians 6:10-18, NIV).

I N S P I R AT I O N

by Gwen Smith

I was caught off guard the night that my dog took the chicken off my counter, and there have been times when I’ve been caught off guard in the midst of spiritual battles. As Christian women, let’s remember to keep watch – over our hearts, our minds, and our homes. Let’s purpose to proactively pray for protection, power and perseverance. May we always keep watch.

Let’s Pray

Dear Lord, You are all-powerful and mighty to save. I praise you and delight in your plan for me to have abundant life through Jesus. Please cover me in Your Spirit today and equip me to fend off attacks from the enemy in your power and help.

In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.

www.sophiewomansmagazine.com

15

Marriage: Is This It?

by Dr. Susan Flowers, PhD

Compatibility in a marriage is key but if your spouse has become more like a friend and less like the person you were attracted to, your marriage will begin to lose its energy.

With 22% of married women in the U.S. earning more than their husbands and many of them still shouldering most of the household duties and childcare, feeling under appreciated in a marriage is also on the rise. Subsequently, marriage has become more family oriented and couples are spending less alone time together.

So how do you avoid falling into a rut?

1. Pay attention to each other. Make having fun in your marriage a priority. Schedule date nights on the calendar at minimum twice a month with absolutely none of your children allowed. Choose fun, sexy and unusual outings and capture your memories with a camera. There is nothing more bonding than experiencing new, fun, and romantic ventures together. The possibilities are endless so be creative. Here are some easy ideas: spending a night at that quaint bed & breakfast across town that looked inviting, renting a pontoon and having a private picnic on the lake for two, packing a dinner and camping out under the stars at an outdoor concert, taking salsa lessons together once a week or even visiting your local Dave & Busters for burgers and arcade excitement like two teenagers!

2. Compliment each other regularly. We know that women love compliments but it goes a long way for a man, especially when you want him to continue doing something that pleases you. Brag about your spouse publicly or in front of friends at least once a month, soon they will return the favor.

3. “Keep in Touch.” Physical connections outside the bedroom, like handholding, can keep the fires burning. Steal a quick smooch in public and note how it makes you feel.

4. “Don’t worry...be happy.” So he chews loudly at the dinner table, it won’t kill you. “Don’t sweat the small stuff,” save the arguments for stuff that matters. Also, spend time laughing together at least once a week by doing things like playing silly board games or watching a comedy.

5. Volunteer together. It bonds you in common values, even if it is helping a friend move on the weekend.

6. Never use sex as a punishment. A physical connection is critical in a marriage, it raises your Oxytocin levels, which is your “bonding hormone.” It is an essential chemical reaction for love to occur and to remain. Be generous, your marriage truly needs at least one sexual

16

Sophie Woman’s Magazine / July 2011

encounter a week.

7. Be spontaneous. Do at least two unexpected things per week that your spouse will appreciate. They could be as simple as packing them a lunch for work, sending them a steamy text message during the day, washing their car, running their errands on the weekend to allow for sleeping in, etc. Just remember, what is already routine, isn’t spontaneity.

8. Talk money. This step is probably the most vital. Ignoring your finances as a couple is the #1 catalyst to marital discord. It is important to keep your household finances out in the open and above board. You both should have separate accounts for life’s small indulgences, in addition to your joint household account. The key word is small. Personal spending that doesn’t exceed 50.00 per month. You work hard at your careers and deserve a little pampering on occasion that does not require a joint discussion or partner approval. Stick to a budget for household spending and discuss anything that veers off course before there is a problem or credit becomes maxed out. Pay for necessary items with cash as often as possible; otherwise walk away from the purchase if it doesn’t leave you “homeless, hypothermic, or hungry.”

“Happily ever after,” is the norm in fairy tales. There is nothing automatic about marriage, including happiness. Marriage requires commitment, attention, fun, spontaneity and generous sex to flourish and remain stimulating. Remember the things that made you happy when you were dating and make them a priority again. Before you know it, those ‘butterflies’ will be paying you both a visit again and again.■

Dr Susan Flowers, PhD is a speaker, author, coach and radio host for the “Caribbean Connection” Saturdays at 4 - 6 PM on 103.3 FM WGIV Charlotte. For bookings visit www.SusanFlowers.com or www.

Facebook.com/DrSusanFlowers.

Mom’s Dream

by Marilyn Nutter

The shades were pulled; the room darkened. The eighth grade class had become quiet waiting for our English teacher, Mrs. Manzy, to show slides from her summer trip. As the slide carousel clicked in succession, my mind drifted in rhythm to the changing slides—alternating between daydreaming and paying attention. The assigned reading was Evangeline

by Longfellow, and Mrs. Manzy tried to generate interest among her students by showing slides of her trip to Nova Scotia, the setting of the poem written years ago. My family lived on a tight budget and there was no money for summer vacations. We might go to a nearby lake for a picnic or visit a local amusement park for a few hours, but we never vacationed overnight. So, when my teacher showed us slides of such a beautiful faraway place, I dreamed: someday I’m going to travel and go to Nova Scotia.

“Someday” came when I had my own family. My husband and I were determined to broaden our children’s horizons by travel. When we planned family vacations with our daughters, we generally combined an educational opportunity with fun. It could be a visit to an historical site, a museum, an aquarium, or learning how to crab or fish. “Mom,” my middle daughter protested. “Most families go to water parks! They don’t do these kinds of trips!” There was a grain of truth in her comment, but why waste an opportunity to learn while having fun?

One year, my dream became reality as we planned our visit to Nova Scotia. With seven years between my oldest and youngest daughters and with another in between, finding age appropriate interests that fit all ages was a challenge. Anne of Green Gables was gaining popularity on TV and we included a visit to Prince Edward Island.

As we piled into our van, all three girls groaned in chorus, “We’re going to be driving for hours.” “But think of the fun,” I answered. “Just think--lobster suppers in Canada! You’ll see a live performance of Anne of Green Gables! I really think you’ll enjoy Nova Scotia. We’ve timed it to see the tides. I still remember seeing the slides in....” They interrupted me; “Eighth grade.” Yet, I had to be realistic. We were going to be on the road for days. What do you do when you are driving for days? Conversation, typical road games, naps and listening to tapes only go so far. The logical thing to do was prepare for our visit by reading!

I borrowed the juvenile version of Evangeline from the library and we read pages at various intervals, so that the girls would know the story of the place we were visiting. I was hoping too, that the suspense and the “love story” angle would get their interest.

Our first stop in Nova Scotia was a drive to Grand Pre National Park.

A tour guide told us the story of Evangeline. I felt as if I were in 8th grade again, but this time it was real. As we circled Evangeline’s statue, the guide pointed out that half of Evangeline’s face is young and the other old, depicting her life search for Gabriel, her fiancé. Since that was exactly what we had read, the girls’ interest was piqued. Could I have heard a whisper, “Maybe Mom is on to something here,”? I think so!

Then the guide said, “There is another statue in Louisiana—where she and Gabriel were reunited.” I made a mental note that we should stop there on our cross country adventure planned for the following summer.

Aha! We could take one route going, and another traveling back. We would see more of the US! It would work! The following July we pulled up to a small church with an adjacent cemetery and spotted a statue of Evangeline. We took pictures and the girls humored me (again). The

cycle was complete as we lived out the final chapter of the story.

Perhaps we chased fictional characters around the United States and Canada, and maybe some children would have preferred a water park to a summer trip of literature and history, but I know that I fulfilled a dream planted in my mind years ago by an English teacher. Years later, my daughters still talk about our trip and Mom’s dream. They admit that it was a wonderful trip. When they reminisce, they thank us for the memories and all the trips we took, even the educational ones.

The shades may have been pulled and the classroom dark, but a light went on and a dream created in the mind of a thirteen year old girl who had never left her state or taken a family vacation. The travel “dream” evolved in my adulthood beyond the US and included far way places, the Caribbean, Asia, Mexico, and Europe.

I wish that I had written my English teacher and told her about our family trip to Nova Scotia and sent her a photo. I bet she’d be surprised at the impression she made. Actually, I think Mrs. Manzy would say that her dream for a student had been fulfilled too. ###

Marilyn Nutter is the author of three devotional books including Diva Delights and is a contributor to on-line sites and compilations such as Chicken Soup for the Soul. She enjoys guiding women to find extraordinary treasures in ordinary days and is available to speak to women’s church and community groups. Contact her at marilynnutter@gmail.com and visit her website at www.marilynnutter.com

www.sophiewomansmagazine.com

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Children In A Wedding Means No Kidding Around

A wedding is a joyous event that couples want to share with as many people as possible. Couples commonly ask family and friends to take part in the ceremony as ushers, bridesmaids or readers. Before enlisting the help of a child to fill such roles, couples should carefully consider whether a youngster is capable of participating in the wedding ceremony or if he or she may not be up to the task.

Millions of people tuned into the British Royal wedding in April. Among the participants were six young children. The Hon. Margarita Armstrong-Jones, Miss Eliza Lopes, Miss Grace van Cutsem, Lady Louise Windsor, Master Tom Pettifer, and Master William Lowther-Pinkerton were bridesmaids and pages in attendance. The children were as young as three years old and as old as 10. Although the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were confident enough in the kids’ maturity to include them, reportedly some measures were taken to keep the tots in line. For instance, Prince Henry reportedly delighted little Eliza Lopes with a pink “wiggly worm” so she wouldn’t be frightened by the crowds. Said wiggly worm actually made it into the official group bridal photo, being clutched by Miss Lopes.

Couples worrying about all the little details of their own weddings may not want to fret about kiddie meltdowns or the bloopers that can occur when kids act like kids. Each child’s personal maturity level should be considered before enlisting their help. There are some other strategies to use as well. * Young children serving as flower girls or ring bearers should be able to walk down the aisle without coaxing. If they cannot handle this task, then they should not be asked to take part in the wedding. * Should children prove competent to walk down the aisle unattended, couples can have them then make their way to the seats next to their parents, rather than awkwardly standing with the rest of the bridal party for the ceremony. * An minimum age requirement for wedding participants might be a good idea. A child age 5 or up may be able to appreciate the importance of the event.

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* Consult with the pastor or officiant of the ceremony. The ceremony location may have rules governing children in the ceremony. * All people who have participated in the ceremony will be invited to the reception. If couples decide to have a kids-free party, then reconsider children in the ceremony. * Think about another role for a young child that will not disrupt the proceedings. Perhaps he or she can help hand out birdseed or small bottles of bubbles to use when the couple has finished their vows. Or give children disposable cameras and allow them to capture a kids’-eye view of the wedding.

Couples who choose to have children participate in the ceremony have to realize that there is the potential for slip-ups.

Keeping an open mind and some patience can make for some memorable moments and a little humor as well. ■

Ron Gray Photography

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I Believe...

That just because two people argue, It doesn’t mean they don’t love each other.

And just because they don’t argue, It doesn’t mean they do love each other.

I Believe...

That we don’t have to change friends if We understand that friends change.

I Believe....

That no matter how good a friend is, they’re going to hurt you, every once in a while and you must forgive them for that.

I Believe.....

That true friendship continues to grow, even over the longest distance.

Same goes for true love.

I Believe...

That you can do something in an instant That will give you heartache for life.

I Believe....

That it’s taking me a long time To become the person I want to be.

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Sophie Woman’s Magazine / July 2011

I Believe...

That you should always leave loved ones with Loving words.

It may be the last time you see them.

I Believe....

That you can keep going long after you think you can’t.

I Believe....

That we are responsible for what We do, no matter how we feel.

I Believe...

That either you control your attitude or it controls you.

I Believe....

That heroes are the people who do what has to be done when it needs to be done, regardless of the consequences.

I Believe....

That my best friend and I can do anything or nothing and have the best time..

I Believe....

That sometimes the people you expect to kick you when you’re down will be the ones to help you get back up.

I Believe...

That sometimes when I’m angry I have the right to be angry, but that doesn’t give me the right to be cruel.

I Believe...

That maturity has more to do with what types of experiences you’ve had And what you’ve learned from them and less to do with how many birthdays you’ve celebrated.

I Believe.....

That it isn’t always enough, to be forgiven by others.

Sometimes, you have to learn to forgive yourself.

I Believe...

That no matter how bad your heart is broken, the world doesn’t stop for your grief.

Me, Myself, & . c In

By Sherré DeMao

In last month’s column, I talked about taking an inventory of what you consider to be time wasters because the first key to effectively using your time is understanding that it is a valuable resource to be used in the most rewarding and productive way.

The second key to effectively using your time is to appreciate and understand that it is also a valued resource to everyone else.

When we have a respect for our time as well as other people’s time, we can truly make time an asset and also get more help and support along the way.

This is why the next step in your time inventory is identifying ways you can create time alignment. Alignment is a better way to approach truly leveraging your time versus time management because if you are just managing your time, you may not be making the most of your time. You may be merely plugging activities into a schedule without really considering how everything works together efficiently, productively, and respectfully. This is an important point to understand.

Part of the main reason that time becomes our enemy is that we allow everyone else to dictate how and when we use it. What can make this worse is when you are dealing with people who do not value your time as much as their own. Take a look at anyone or any situation that is not respecting your time and then shift it to a more acceptable arrangement. As hard as it may be, you may also eliminate or change relationships as a result of this inventory.

But what if the culprit in not valuing your time is you? Do you go out of your way to meet or accommodate others, putting additional strain on your schedule and available time? If this is the case, then you are demonstrating by your actions that you believe everyone else’s time is more important than yours. Everyone’s time is equally important, and those who understand this are willing to meet halfway and consider the other person when scheduling.

Sometimes there is a give and take based on considering what is going on with each person, but if you are always making concessions to accommodate another person’s availability or time constraints, then no wonder you are frustrated.

Everyone’s greatest desire is always to have more time to do what they really want to be doing. So the next thing to assess in your time usage inventory is anything that takes you away from what you would really like to be doing. Are there obligations you

no longer want to participate in? Are there things you are doing that someone else could or should be doing instead? Are there family or work activities that can be consolidated or shared with others so it is not always you handling them?

Make it a practice to align yourself with those who also consider time a valuable and respected resource. Take a look at your list of things that are taking you away from what you really want to be doing. Then make a list of anyone you know who could be a resource or help you with what still needs to get done but you would prefer not to have to do it. Focus on using their time in ways that support you because it is their strength and not yours or they are willing to help because you also help them.

This will assure that your and their time is being respected and valued. I intentionally seek out doctor’s offices and healthcare practices that guarantee you are in and out within a certain timeframe. My dentist, optometrist, physician and gynecologist all have made respect of patients’ time a distinguishing factor in their business. I am always in and out in no time because they respect my time. I have my hair done on Saturdays because that is what is most convenient to me in my schedule. I have identified which business contacts or clients are early morning people and which are more productive later in the day so we can align our meetings and productivity times. I have identified the perfect midway points for meetings so it is equidistance when meeting in person is necessary. Have you noticed how Panera Bread has done this in their strategic location analysis? They have become a popular meeting place because they are located in places that make meeting someone convenient.

m o t i va t i o n

Time Alignment Gives You Greater Independence

The ultimate benefit in focusing on time alignment versus time management is that you will find ways to recapture some much needed and desired free time for yourself. And this, as we all know, is the most precious and valued time of all.

Bio: Sherré DeMao inspires millions through her monthly columns, weekly Insight eZine and national contributing writing. An expert strategist and marketer focused on entrepreneurs, her unique perspective and innovative approach has earned numerous awards regionally, nationally and internationally including being named among the Top 50 Enterprising Women of North America in 2007. Her books, Me, Myself & Inc. and 50 Marketing Secrets (www.50marketingsecrets. com) have received national acclaim as Top Business Shelf picks and must reads.

www.sophiewomansmagazine.com

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D

o you have girl friends that are so much fun and seem to live on the edge? These lovely creatures break rules, make their own rules, and get exactly what they want out of life. Their clothing, home, office, and everything they touch seem to effortlessly be an extension of who they are. If you aspire to be more hip, read on! Life can be very adventurous!

When I entered the workplace as a young designer in the furniture and interior design profession years ago, things were so different! Fabric in a room exactly coordinated. I sold entire sets of furniture, such as bedrooms and dining rooms. The internet, as we know it, was a thing of the future. Many of my clients flew to NC for a couple of days to furnish their entire home.

Most design students are taught certain rules and principals that they should follow in commercial or residential projects. Over the years, these rules have been relaxed due to economical issues, changes in consumer preferences, and a more global marketplace. Some of the rules; however, should be golden and never broken. Here are some pointers for living on the edge!

by Susan Guest, ASID

e d u c at i o n

go a long way in brightening your day! We just bought a folk art piece at HMA’s “Art on the Avenue” event. Made from an old tin ceiling, the art features a strange dog with an under bite wearing blue cat-eyed glasses. We dubbed the piece “Snarky”, hung it over the porch door, and smile every time we walk through that door.

• Family photos can be hung anywhere you please. I have always been told to put personal photos in an intimate area of the home, such as a back hall or bedroom. Unless you are staging your home for resale, put them anywhere that makes you happy. Many of us are far away from our families and love to see photos of them.

One word of caution: make sure that the scale of the photos fit the wall where you place them. If your photos are small, make a grouping of many pieces on a larger wall. You may need to add a long shelf or an anchor piece if the wall is extremely long.

• Outdoor furnishings can now be used indoors. Years ago, outdoor furniture and fabrics were not particularly attractive. Now, the products have improved and are excellent to use in family areas where children and pets spend a lot of time. Many of the solution dyed acrylic fabrics can be cleaned with bleach. Outdoor rugs are also nice to use in these areas.

• An item or a room can have more than one purpose. For example, a dining room with a wall of books can also be a library. A home office can have a pull-out sofa that can house guests on occasion.

An extra bedroom can also be a craft room.

• Large scaled items can be used in smaller rooms in some cases. For example, a large patterned wallpaper used in a powder room can be very dramatic. A small scaled pattern in the same room might look insignificant and boring. A large piece of furniture can sometimes pull a smaller room together and be an excellent focal point.

• Furniture doesn’t have to match. A more eclectic mix of furniture, styles, and textures is harder to achieve, but is much more pleasing to the eye. Buying an entire room full of matching pieces might work for someone who doesn’t care about their environment; but would never work in my world. I love to go in a room that features items collected on trips around the world complete with histories and stories about each piece. Another reason to buy pieces that don’t match, is that you can space the purchases out over time and look for deals.

• Whimsical items can be used in all areas of the home. In years past, all the fun and colorful things were put in children’s rooms. Our modern society is not an easy place to live; so a little whimsy can

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Go Wild!

Break The Rules!

Sophie Woman’s Magazine / July 2011

There are some rules that should not be broken. A room should not have all the furniture at one height. To make a room look taller, use a stripe and paint the ceiling a lighter color. To make a room look shorter, paint a darker color on the ceiling and use a horizontal stripe to break up the wall. Form does follow function. One of my favorite rules, that I never learned in design school, is that if you are no longer using an item, donate to a person or organization that can reuse, repurpose, or recycle. ■

Susan Guest, ASID is an awardwinning interior designer in Hickory and owner of Guest Interiors, LLC. She is one of the designers featured in “Spectacular Homes of the Carolinas”, found in high-end bookstores around the country. For more information, visit www.guestinteriors.com.

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