San Joaquin Woman Jul 2012

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July 2012

The Magazine For San Joaquin Women

AN ADOPTION LIKE NO OTHER PAGE 8 SAVORY SUMMER RECIPES PAGE 30 GOLF "FORE" GIRLS PAGE 22

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July 2012

Synchronicity

PUBLISHER roger Coover PUBLICATIONS DIRECTOR Deitra r. Kenoly EDITOR Karen Bakhtegan CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Charleen earley Susan Michener Spracher Deborah littleton Jennifer Siders Kim robinson CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS lindsay Ortez amy Phipps Kayde Moore

Karen Bakhtegan Editor

I

am a serious “everything happens for a reason” advocate. I just love that moment when

you can take a glance back in retrospect and realize how a seemingly unrelated series of events all came together to lead you to the perfect outcome – one far better than you ever imagined, as life’s little detours seemed to sabotage your well-laid plans. a few months back I hired a new photographer, amy Phipps, to shoot pictures for one

FASHION PHOTOGRAPHERS Mike Chaves Jr Peter Cordero ricacho

of our features. She had submitted a photo for a previous feature, so I knew she was good,

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Jason ente Dan loeffelbein

doing so, I learned that she had an adopted child. a comment from one of her friends led me

COVER PHOTO BY Kayde Moore

Like us on Facebook

but I decided to stalk her Facebook page anyway, just to get a better feel for her style. While

to think it might be a pretty interesting story. So during a break at the photo shoot, I asked her about it. Sure enough, it’s a great story! It is full of synchronicity, coincidences, and that oh-so-satisfying happy ending. It’s so good, in fact, that we are bringing it to you as a threepart series. We start in this edition with amy’s story. Our September edition will be from the birth-mother’s perspective, and we will conclude with amy’s adopted son, Tai. I’m sure this

Facebook.com/recordSpecialtyPublications San Joaquin Woman magazine is published six times a year by The Record, 530 E. Market Street, Stockton, CA 95202. All information written for publication in San Joaquin Woman magazine is believed to be accurate. Readers must assume all responsibility for their own actions based on this information. Occasionally a product or company may be named in an article, but does not constitute an endorsement of said product.

San Joaquin Woman magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers.

Photos and content become the sole property of San Joaquin Woman magazine and may be used, published or edited without limit or obligation to the author.

Copyright 2012. All rights reserved.

Reproduction is prohibited without the permission of the publisher. For more information, go to sanjoaquinwoman.com.

To advertise in San Joaquin Woman magazine, call (209) 546-8200

story will warm your heart as much as it did mine. and speaking of warm, summer is here to stay for awhile. So we are bringing you some useful summer safety tips, yummy recipes and some fun summer activities, plus a whole lot more. enjoy! and as always, tell us what you think. email your comments, suggestions and ideas for future editions to sjwoman@recordnet.com

CONTENTS 8

FEATURE An Adoption Like No Other

FASHION 12 The Future of Fashion 209 MOM 17 Autism – What Lies Beneath CAREER 20 Walking (Flying) a Mile in Her Shoes Skydiving Instructor

SUMMER FUN 22 The First Tee of SJ – Golf “Fore” Girls 26 In a Snap – take better family photos 28 Art Korner I N

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FOOD 30 Savory Summer Recipes

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BODY, MIND & SPIRIT 33 Summer Safety Tips 35 Eating for Your Blood Type 36 Angel Whisperer Kim Robinson/Reader Q &A

PEEK-A BOUTIQUE 38 Second Hand Rose 40 PHOTO GALLERY Family Vacations

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An

Adoption

like no other

Part 1 of a 3 part series:

Look for part 2 in the September edition of San Joaquin Woman

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By Charleen earley PhOTOS By KayDe MOOre

I

t was her dream as a newlywed to begin a

family with her husband Doug, but for amy Phipps of Stockton, it just didn’t seem to be God’s will at the time.

Six months into the marriage, she discovered she had endometriosis, and he had low mobility. “Meaning the guys were there, they just weren’t swimmin’!” chuckled Phipps, owner of On the Phippside Photography in Stockton. “Then we started looking at options, because we really wanted a family.”

Options, however, couldn’t begin until another six months later, since you’re not considered infertile in the doctor’s eyes, she said, until after a year of “trying.”

JULY 2012

PhOTO By KayDe MOOre PhOTO By aMy PhIPPS

One alternative was hardly conceivable

Services Program, they endured a year of

“Out of all the files, the birth mom’s mother

based on their limited income – she was a

background checks, tons of paperwork, social

kept going back to our file for some reason,”

student taking core classes at Modesto Junior

worker home visits and safety checks. The staff

said Phipps. “Once she opened it up and read

College, and he was an english teacher at

gave them an important bit of advice.

our personal letter, which stated we were open

Pacific law academy.

“They told us that if we were open to a

“We had an 18% chance of conceiving with

child of any race, it would greatly increase our

in vitro. It was gonna cost us almost $20,000,

chances of adoption,” said Phipps, who is of

and our insurance wouldn’t cover it; this was

Cherokee-Indian descent, and Doug Scottish-

20 years ago,” said Phipps, 38, of Stockton.

Irish. “We’re both ‘pretty white!’”

to any race, we were chosen!”

“That was the day our lives changed forever,” said Phipps.

Born on July 28, 1997 to a 21-year-old mom, Tai’s birth mom actually took him home

“We kept on trying the old conventional way

eight months later, the couple received a

first, before giving him to Social Services to

though, charting temperatures to show when

call that a birth mom had chosen them – even

give to the Phipps at two-and-a-half weeks

I was ovulating.”

though they checked the box “open to any

old.

The couple finally decided to look outside the biological box with adoption.

Through the Mormon Church’s Social

race” on their application, for some reason someone had written “Caucasian only” on the outside of their file.

“For her to still give him up after taking him home with her, is amazing,” said Phipps.

Their dark-skinned baby boy came home to

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FEATUR E

a noah’s ark-themed room, and was given a name that honored his race and culture. “he’s half Samoan, so it was important for us to give him a Samoan name. We named him Fa’afetai, ‘Tai’ for short. It means ‘thankful,’” added Phipps. “his middle name is John, Doug’s father’s name, which means ‘the lord is gracious.’”

During the first two years, Tai’s birth mother (ironically named amy, but spelled aamey), wrote letters to Tai, since some rules of closed adoptions limits communication to one-way only. at one point, all communication was lost, and lasted about eight years.

Phipps said thankfully through social media, she searched and found Tai’s birth mom. Deep down inside, Phipps felt there should be two-way communication between Tai and his birth mom.

“We took it real slow in the beginning,” said Phipps. “She’d meet us at Tai’s swim meets, but without Tai knowing at first. Months later we told him everything. We didn’t want him to freak out, and he was fine with it. he was 12 years old at the time. he was okay. Tai is so secure with who his family is.”

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“now she goes to the meets and supports him, we’ve done trips together, we’ve met her grandparents, and we’ve even met at our house,” added Phipps. “We can’t imagine it being any other way really. She has her own family, and boundaries are very clear. It’s just what family is for us – it’s taken on a new definition for us.”

Two years after Tai made their family unit complete, Phipps became horribly sick while in the process of giving away Tai’s baby clothes.

Their world was about to change yet again.

“Turns out I was four months pregnant at the time!” said Phipps. “Jackson was born in January, 2000, and then Isabella was born the same year in December. Two years later, Sam was born april, 2003. My tubes are tied now!” her firstborn, however, will always hold a special place in their hearts.

“Tai was meant to be our first child and he was meant to be in this family,” said Phipps.

“We’ve had so many experiences that have pointed that to us and God needed to find some other way for him to be with us.”

PhOTO By aMy PhIPPS

San J o aqui n Wo m an

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the

Future Fashion of

By Karen BaKhTeGan

I

recently had the pleasure of attending “a Story of Fashion,”

the annual event organized and produced by the Fashion event Production class at San Joaquin Delta College, led by Professor leslie asfour. This impressive fashion exhibit featured collections from ten student designers from Delta’s Collection Design Class, led by instructor natalie Minori Sconce.

JULY 2012

I had expected it to be an enjoyable experience, having heard great things about past events, but this well-organized and elegant presentation far exceeded my expectations. Starting with a cheerful greeting at the door, we were served tasty hors d’oeuvres and wine. each guest received a “swag bag” full of fun and useful items donated by local businesses, and even a cute, customized paper fan to keep cool with during the exhibit, which took place on one the hottest evenings in May.

Photo Credit: Mike Chaves Jr of macshot 20 photography http://www.macshot20.com/ Designer: Thuytien Nguyen Model: Sokheang Sok

the

Future

Photo Credit: Mike Chaves Jr of macshot 20 photography http://www.macshot20.com/ Designer: Natatle Minori Sconce Model: Danielle Porter

But the real treat was the presentation of the eclectic design collections by these brilliant young up-and-comers of the fashion world.

They were Marisol Machuca, Thuytien nguyen, Kablia virathon, Karyn Faszer, Kyle Gajeton, Shoua Xiong, Kathy vang, Zandra Manner, Monica Sailors, and Izamar rodriguez. Their designs ranged from preppy chic to romance to avante garde. each collection was a reflection of the student designer’s unique vision.

Photo Credit: Mike Chaves Jr of macshot 20 photography http://www.macshot20.com/ Designer: Kablia Virathone Model: Elina Samol

as the models and designers made their final journey across the catwalk, I found myself wanting for more. I plan to bring my teenage daughter along next year. and strongly recommend that you mark your calendars in advance for the 2013 event, as it is a must-see for anyone who has an appreciation for fashion and fresh young talent.

of

Fashion

JULY 2012

Photo Credit: Mike Chaves Jr of macshot 20 photography http://www.macshot20.com/ Designer: Thuytien Nguyen Model: Megan Bowles Photo Credit: Mike Chaves Jr of macshot 20 photography http://www.macshot20.com/ Designer: Thuytien Nguyen Model: Danielle Porter

For information on the fashion program at San Joaquin Delta College, visit: www.deltacollege.edu/org/fashion/aSTOryOFFaShIOn

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AUT SM 209 M OM ~ FAMILY

AWARENESS AND WHAT LIES UNDERNEATH

JULY 2012

By DeBOrah lITTleTOn

T

he autism awareness logo is pure genius.

The rainbow-colored puzzle pieces convey the idea of the spectrum of autism disorders.

There has got to be some factor that is causing so much autism. Thankfully, identifying behaviors start showing up early. One big sign is that toddlers start lining up their toys. It’s a devastating – often overnight – change in a child, from on target in their development, to suddenly closed off and uncommunicative, or socially withdrawn.

Therapies for autism have advanced.

Some children are able to mainstream into the conventional classroom with early intervention.

San J o aqui n Wo m an

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and some have been able to be able to go on to being more functional or

had a found a couple of ticks on her skin prior to her pregnancy, but hadn’t

living free of the symptoms of autism.

thought to test for lyme disease.

Triggers can set off some children. Kellie Goodrum of Tracy shared that

It’s a misconception that it’s only a northeastern condition. The 2005

she has two autistic children. her 15-year-old son Conner has asperger

documentary Under Our Skin showed how lyme disease is spreading across

syndrome and aDhD, and sometimes can have “meltdowns” with flashing

america. It is even found in places like California and Texas.

lights or certain noises. When Conner was young, he started screaming

Thankfully, with the treatment of antibiotics for lyme disease, which is

and knocking things over while shopping at the mall. Kellie went out to sit

spread by spirochete-carrying ticks, some of Dr. Mielke’s patients have lost

with him, and find out what was wrong. Conner pointed at his mother’s

their autism altogether. and Mary, along with Tina, is improving, having

sunglasses, and he was wearing them when they went back in to clean up

lost many of her autistic symptoms. For more information, contact a lyme

the shoeboxes. Conner explained to Kellie’s aunt – who’d thought Conner

literate Medical Doctor (llMD), as the regular blood tests (checking for

was misbehaving – that he needed the special glasses to help stop the

antigens) for lyme disease aren’t always accurate. Sometimes, they can

ceiling’s heartbeat. They figured out that he meant the lights. Kellie said

only diagnose by symptoms.

“It was then we realized the most mundane things are triggers.” Temple

The leading lyme disease pediatrician, Dr. Charles ray Jones, has

Grandin’s website explains that fluorescent lights are hard for autistic

treated over 10,000 kids all over the country. he is from hartford,

people to handle.

Connecticut – in the heart of lyme country – where the first cases were

Conner was diagnosed at two, and Kellie said that there wasn’t much

identified in 1975. Dr. Jones was highlighted in Under Our Skin for his

information about autism. She vowed then and there to bring awareness

controversial use of antibiotics in treating lyme disease. It has brought

to the condition. her experience with Conner helped, as her younger

many back from the brink of neurological nightmares.

daughter Grace, seven years old, has borderline autism, and has just been accepted into the GaTe program. Kellie said that Grace likes order, but gets overwhelmed when she has too many directions given. They break up chores like cleaning her room into manageable tasks.

Scientists have made great strides in discovering what might be causing this near epidemic of autism. a link has been established between lyme disease and autism. as parents of autistic children with lyme disease, Tami Duncan and Kathy Blanco co-founded the lyme Induced autism Foundation in 2006, and stated in a press release that 90% of autistic children test positive for lyme disease. It makes sense with the spread of lyme disease, that autism would affect 1 in 150 children.

In September of 2011, Fox 40 news reported on 19-year-old Mary hendricks. She was doing fine, on track with language and eye contact as a toddler. Then all of the sudden, she was diagnosed with severe autism and developmental delay before she turned two. Mary developed other conditions that were keeping her in pain, so her mother Tina took her to autism specialist Dr. lynn Mielke.

The doctor was going to test Mary for lyme disease, but decided to test her mother first. Tina hendricks had her own ailments, including fibroymyalgia, colitis and interminable flu symptoms. Dr. Mielke found that Mary’s mother had lyme disease, and had passed the condition along to her daughter. Mary

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Shelley Still is one of those in Texas affected by lyme disease –

JULY 2012

diagnosed last October. She saw Dr. Jones speaking at a luncheon in

Clay aiken’s recent involvement in The Celebrity apprentice

the lyme Disease awareness Month of May. Shelley was touched by his

showcased the “The national Inclusion Project” that he co-founded in

story about a little boy who’d been diagnosed with autism. The boy was

2003, with friend Diane Bubel. It started with a backward glance in the

very misbehaved, running around Dr. Jones’ office. Unable to talk, the

car, when Diane’s autistic son couldn’t verbalize his longing to attend his

boy’s family wasn’t sure if he understood verbal language. Dr. Jones said

sister’s day camp. She could see it in his eyes.

to the little boy, “I hope I can find the key to unlocking your voice.” after

aiken had studied special education, and along with Bubel, had

3 months, and a course of antibiotics for lyme disease, the little boy

seen how children with disabilities are often left out of activities. Their

came back for an appointment. The boy calmly walked into Dr. Jones’

website says, “We work every day to make the inclusion of children with

office, and climbed up into the doctor’s lap. The boy put his hands on

disabilities a reality.” Their program “let’s all Play” allows those with

Dr. Jones’ cheeks and said, “Thank you for giving me the key to unlock

disabilities play alongside those without, and you can’t tell who’s who.

my voice.”

hopefully, those that are affected by autism can see a specialist that

regarding any special needs children that are mainstreamed, the

deals in both lyme disease and autism. and maybe scientists can one

rest of the children in their school must be taught to be inclusive –

day provide a vaccination against lyme disease. It’s still best to keep

accepting of the child. Bullying is an awful aspect that sometimes pops

limbs covered, and to do the “tick check” after hiking and camping in

up. Temple Grandin said that her middle-school years were awful, but

wooded areas. and make sure to check beyond the hairline, in case the

she can laugh about it now. If a child is different, some kids take that

rash could be missed.

to mean that there is a target on the child’s back. Sadly and ironically,

and keep the attitude of the Goodrums. “We are a richly blessed

the lyme disease-causing tick bite normally causes a bull’s-eye rash –

family, and we have instilled in our kids ‘It’s not a disability, but an

though not as much in California as in the northeast.

ability!’”

CAREER ~ WALK ING A MILE IN HER S H OE S

FLYInG 2.5 MILEs In HER sHOEs T hr i l l - seekin g mo m love s life in the frie ndly skie s

By Charleen earley PhOTOS COUrTeSy OF Bay area SKyDIvInG

I

went to job-shadow aimee Bower with my mind

completely made up that I would not, and I repeat not, jump out of a completely functioning airplane with her on my back in a tandem skydive jump.

My plan was to stay put in the Beechcraft King air airplane and take notes from there. however within minutes of meeting aimee –

the only female tandem skydiving instructor at Bay area Skydiving in Byron – I felt as though I were in good hands, and agreed to watch the required video about what a huge risk I was about to undertake. as if I were in the dark at this point.

I liked the fact that she was a mom of two young girls (ages 11 and 14) and her qualifications were great. With over 3,000 jumps in the last 17 years under her belt, she also has a Class 3 medical certificate

issued

by

the

Federal

aviation

administration (Faa), which is basically equal to a student pilot medical, since the Faa considers tandem instructors as pilots-in-command. after watching her suit up and instruct four tandem jumpers before me, each individual jumps, I desperately tried to memorize the instructions, figuring repetition couldn’t hurt. and I couldn’t help but laugh when she adjusted the straps between the legs of one of her male jumpers.

“Tell me if the couch is in the middle of the living room!” she asked him.

With humor, knowledge and instructions, aimee’s “down-to-earth” disposition puts her jumpers at ease.

“I’ve been told that I have a different way of changing the experience and making my students feel at ease,” said aimee, who lives in San Jose with her husband Brad. “I think too many instructors look at it

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CHARLEEN EARLEY (BOTTOM) AND AIMEE BOWER (TOP)

JULY 2012

as a job – ‘get ’em up, get ’em down and move on’ – but I like to take the

of our decent.

personal time and remember that though this might be my 3210th jump, it is

“We free-fall at approximately six seconds per 1,000 feet after we hit

my student’s first. and I do this part-time for the fun of it, mostly because it

terminal. Terminal velocity is around 120 mph,” said aimee, who is a project

keeps the love in it.”

manager at Cupertino electric, one of the few companies who hire more

There I was, ascending to 13,000 feet above ground with about a dozen other jumpers. aimee and I were last to drop, but because everything moves

female project managers than males. “It takes us eight to ten seconds to hit terminal after leaving the plane.”

like clockwork, I didn’t find time to back out. after aimee made countless

Once our parachute deployed, I knew everything would be okay from

checks and cross-checks, we found ourselves at the threshold of jumping into

there. aimee talked to me throughout the descent, and at one point had me

the clear blue skies on the count of three.

take control of the chute.

I had no idea that after that first “leap of faith” – as aimee refers to it– that windy noise and flapping, gusty wind would immediately be replaced by

“you’re not truly ‘walking a mile in my shoes’ if you don’t do some navigation!’ she said.

calm, peace and beauty. a huge sense of freedom overtakes the mind, and as

Within roughly eight minutes we landed, my legs straight out in front of

aimee assured me, I felt absolutely no sensation of falling to the earth at all.

me, aimee doing all the work. after a huge hug from aimee, I had to sit on the

“you never have that sense of falling, and as far as jumping out of the

ground for a spell to settle my queasy stomach. aimee told me not all jumps

plane, the brain has a 15-second lag of catching up to what you actually did!” said aimee, who also enjoys other “non-” thrill-seeking sports such as whitewater rafting and downhill skiing.

We were in free-fall at roughly 120 mph for 55 seconds, while our

end with a hug.

“I got a smooch with tongue from a 75-year-old man – he was a Marine, with 25 of his friends watching,” said aimee. “his wife took pictures and said she missed the kiss and could we do it again… I said no!”

videographer alex Cashman filmed us. I made the sign of the cross (for good

her love for the sport is all about fun and liberty.

measure), and while my facelift did nothing for fashion, aimee and I both

“My husband and I strive for adventure,” she said. “Skydiving gives us a

sported ear-to-ear grins of pure delight. aimee had a better way of explaining

CHARLEEN EARLEY BOARDS THE PLANE FOR HER FIRST JUMP

For more information, or to book your first of many jumps with aimee, visit www.bayareaskydiving.com or e-mail bayareaskydiving@yahoo.com.

sense of freedom.”

SUM M E R F UN

GOLF “FORE” GIRLs

By Karen BahKTeGan PhOTOS By aMy PhIPPS On The PhIPPPSIDe PhOTOGraPhy

T

he First Tee of San Joaquin is an outstanding youth program

that uses the game of golf to teach life skills. The curriculum, developed by experts in the field of positive youth development, is delivered by trained volunteer coaches including lPG and lPGa professionals.

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Their mission: To impact the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character, instill life enhancing values, and promote healthy choices through the game of golf.

The curriculum focuses on nine core values: honesty, integrity, sportsmanship, respect, confidence,

responsibility,

perseverance,

courtesy, and judgment.

The Golf “Fore” Girls tour meets on Tuesdays from 3:45 to 5:15 at The reserve at Spanos Park. Coordinated by Sandy albaugh and led by all-female volunteer coaches like Kelley Spooner, an lPGa professional from

only get from female coaches and peers.

her time and tireless efforts to keeping the

Stockton Golf and Country Club, and retired

Stacey Khan is a parent of four First Tee

group organized by performing administrative

lincoln high School coach Barbara Fichtner,

golfers. Three are currently participating in

duties. It was the “core values” curriculum

this group is for female participants of the

the program, and another has moved on to

that attracted Stacey to the program. But

co-ed First Tee program to get that extra

the lincoln high School golf team. Stacey

she says the biggest reward has been the

confidence-building instruction that girls can

also volunteers for the program, dedicating

friendships that her children have formed while

participating. “The girls love interacting with the younger participants, and they all end up teaching each other,” says Stacey. Without dedicated volunteers like Stacey and the coaches, this program could not thrive.

The current Golf “Fore” Girls tour began June 9th. The next 9-week tour will begin after labor Day.

For more information contact The executive Director of The First Tee of San Joaquin, Don Miller 209-915-8300 or email eD@thefirstteesanjoaquin.org Be sure to visit them online at www.thefirstteesanjoaquin.org and “like” them on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/ The-First-Tee-of-San-Joaquin

SUM M E R F UN

Capture and preserve memories of family fun

p a n s In a ith e frame” w d “filling th an in er Ch os z cl it d Chin of Fr Try stepping stead, Arnol ses. in vi t ad ec y bj ph su ra your Photog

Posed photos are great, and I’m gla d I have some. Bu to look static, sa t too many can ys Katie Allison start , of the Katie’s Wo rld scrapbooking store.

in the center their subjects ers often place ph ra es that’s an og im ot et ph m Casual re, says Chin. So he d di I as e ace around of the fram sults in dead sp but it often re e, qu o’s edges. ni ot ch ph te e th effective This unposed shot of my daughter quietly enjoyin

g her garden has more emotional impact.

W

Making, a scrapbooking store in lodi.

ith camera phones in millions of purses

But having more pictures doesn’t always

and pockets (according to recent research from

mean having better pictures. and often, even

“Of all the gifts we give our children, the only

the Pew Internet and american life Project, nearly

when we do get a great shot, it exists only in a

ones that last are memories,” Turner says, “so

half of american adults own a smartphone), it’s

digital world, scrolled over on an lCD screen, or

we should make those memories accessible to

easier than ever to document precious details

shared across social media accounts – but never

them.”

of family life, from everyday moments like bath

in person.

and bed time, to special events like anniversary parties and grand vacations.

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By JennIFer TOrreS

S an J o aqu i n Wo m an

That’s no way to treat cherished moments, says Teran Turner, owner of Memories for the

Turner and other memory-making experts offered their tips on how to capture, store and display beautiful family snapshots.

JULY 2012

PHONE PHOTOGRAPHY The first step is making sure your lens is clean, says arnold Chin, whose family business, Fritz Chin Photography, has been in Stockton for more than 40 years. It’s not something many people think about – but they should, he says.

Our phones are often floating inside brief cases or buried deep in pockets, where they can pick up dust and grime. That results in hazy pictures, Chin says. “Before you start shooting, quickly wipe your lens off with a soft cloth, or even your shirt.” next, he says, think about “filling the frame.” Casual photographers tend to center their subjects in the middle of a camera’s viewfinder. Sometimes this approach results in a striking photo, but often, it just leaves a lot of lifeless space at the edges of your picture. next time, step closer to your subject – don’t use the zoom feature – for results with more detail and more impact, Chin advises. Katie allison, who worked as a celebrity photographer before opening Katie’s World, a scrapbooking shop in north Stockton, encourages clients to think creatively when it comes to their photos. It’s nice to a have a few pictures of your kids standing in front of monuments and smiling into the camera, she says. But too many of those posed shots can start to look boring. Worse, they don’t always capture the emotion behind your memories.

“I do want some posed photographs, but I’m really big on the candid moments,” she says. “Don’t just tell your kids to smile. Think about what you want to remember.”

YOUR BEST ANGLE Chances are, as summer rolls on, you’ll be asked to stand in some impromptu group photos. arnold Chin of Fritz Chin Photography offered these tips on achieving a flattering result: 1. Get in the middle: Most cellphone and point-and-shoot cameras have lenses that will make you look a bit wider if you’re standing on one of the ends in a group shot.

2. Keep it simple: Dark colors and threequarter sleeves are slimming, while busy prints and bright whites can call attention to areas you feel insecure about.

3. Think sideways: Stand at a slight angle, and if you’re inclined to suck in your belly, make sure you’re not also inhaling a big gulp of air.

GET STARTED WITH SCRAPBOOKING Both Teran Turner and Katie allison offer kits and classes to help newcomers ease Over the past few months, our fruit and vegetable garden has been a focal point of family activity – and definitely a part of my daughter’s toddler years that I want to remember. Using tips from local experts, I tried to capture more beautiful images of our gardening experience.

CREATING A KEEPSAKE

into scrapbooking. For more information, visit them online: Memories for the Making: memoriesforthemaking.com Katie’s World: katiesworld.biz

Work in photography sent allison on trips to far-flung destinations where she accumulated stacks of personal travel photos. She started scrapbooking after she realized, “all of my pictures are just sitting in a box. I want to put them on display,” she says.

First, she got organized, dividing her pictures into envelopes and computer folders, and storing them chronologically.

Turner recommends that customers make printed copies of digital images after every event – each birthday party or trip to the beach, for example. “anything can happen,” she says. “Those little memory cards can get lost, cell phones can get dropped in the toilet.”

Then, she says, organize your photos in envelopes, jotting down what the event was, funny things that happened, what it felt like and who was there.

“We think we’ll never forget, but maybe two years later the details won’t be as clear,” she says.

Don’t forget the little details that made your experiences special, such as a birthday cake before it’s cut, or the sandcastle you built on a beach vacation, suggests Allison. Here, I made sure to collect a few photos that show details of our garden in its first year.

SUM M E R F UN

THE aRT KORnER

By SUSan MIChener SPraCher PhOTOS PrOvIDeD By The arT KOrner

I

n the midst of a dismal economic downturn, regina rose is celebrating 14

years in business with an expansion of her art school, The art Korner. her relationship with art started at a crossroads. Faced with a divorce, rose decided she was done working in the roofing contracting business.

Taking a leap of faith, she followed her interest in art by taking a workshop from an older woman in yosemite. Inspired, she took a 2-year sabbatical to immerse herself in art, traveling to Italy and all over the United States pursuing instruction. She cites following synchronicity as the reason for her longevity and success in business, representing that doing what you love means you never work a day in your life.

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JULY 2012

The art Korner offers classes in all mediums – acrylic and oil paint, pastels and clay – to children and adults of all ages. Class sizes are small so students can receive individual instruction targeted to their ability. Student artwork lining the studio walls is indicative of rose’s goal to provide a space for those with a passion to create and learn to flourish. Students come from all over the county for the challenge of moving paint around, having fun with color and creating their own interpretation of art. The organic atmosphere takes learners back to basics, and away from the high-tech world of computer-generated images. adult class offerings include “Painting 101,” and parties for baby and bridal showers, or Girls night Out. Birthday parties for all ages are also available. a recent doubling of space size has created a clay studio, where instruction is given on handbuilding clay or pottery wheel spinning. Open studio nights in august encourage families to come work with clay together. Summer camps offer a cool and creative respite for kids (and parents).

For more information contact The art Korner (209) 939-9931 www.artkorner.com

SAVORY SUMMER RECIPES Cumin Glazed Ribs

with California Avocado Pineapple Salsa Ingredients california Avocado Pineapple salsa 2 Tbsp. freshly squeezed lime juice 2 Tbsp. tequila 2 Tbsp. brown sugar ½ ripe pineapple, trimmed+ and cut into half-inch slices lengthwise ¼ cup white balsamic vinegar ½ small red onion, cut into ¼-inch dice 1 jalapeño pepper, stemmed, seeded if desired, and minced ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro 1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil 1 tsp. salt ¼ tsp. freshly ground black pepper 1 ripe fresh California avocado, halved, seeded, peeled and cut into ¼-inch dice Preparation: 1 hrs, 15 min Cook Time: 1 hrs, 30 min Total Time: 2 hrs, 45 min Serves: 4

cumin Glazed ribs ¼ cup paprika ¼ cup ancho chile powder ¼ cup ground cumin 2 Tbsp. salt 4½ lb. pork baby back ribs ¼ cup chopped garlic 3 jalapeño peppers, stemmed and seeded if desired 1 Tbsp. ground cumin 3 Tbsp. hot sauce 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice 1 tsp. salt 1 cup honey California Avocado Pineapple Salsa (see make-ahead recipe above)

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S an J o aqu i n Wo m an

Pineapple Salsa Instructions In a shallow bowl, combine lime juice, tequila and sugar.

Cumin Glazed Ribs Instructions Combine paprika, chile powder, cumin and salt in a small

Add pineapple and toss to coat thoroughly. Let marinate for

bowl. Pat spice mixture all over ribs and let stand for 30

30 minutes. Remove pineapple and set aside.

minutes.

Transfer marinade to a saucepan over medium heat. Add

Preheat grill to 300ºF. Place ribs in a single layer in a baking

vinegar and simmer, stirring often until reduced by half.

pan and add 1/4-inch of water to pan. Bake uncovered for 45

Remove from heat and cool to room temperature.

minutes on grill with the lid closed.

Preheat grill to medium high. Wipe grill with an oiled towel and place pineapple on grill at an angle. Cook for 6-8 minutes, turning frequently until outside of pineapple is lightly golden and caramelized.

Remove from grill, let cool and cut into 1/4-inch dice In a bowl, combine pineapple with reduced vinegar mixture. Gently toss in onion, jalapeño, cilantro, olive oil, salt, pepper and avocado. Taste and adjust seasonings as necessary.

Note: If making salsa in advance, refrigerate overnight and

Cover ribs with foil and bake for an additional 45 minutes, or until very tender.

Meanwhile, for the glaze, purée garlic, jalapeños, cumin, hot sauce, lime juice and salt in a food processor.

Pour mixture into a small saucepan and stir in honey. Cook over low heat for 20 minutes, stirring constantly and being careful not to burn.

Increase grill temperature to 450ºF. Remove ribs from baking pan and generously glaze. Grill for 5 minutes per side,

wait to add avocado until 30 minutes before serving.

frequently brushing with additional glaze.

+ To trim pineapple, cut off top and bottom and stand it

Avocado Pineapple Salsa.

To serve, cut ribs apart and serve hot with California upright. Cut off the rind, using a sharp knife in smooth downward motions. Remove any remaining “eyes” with the

*Large avocados are recommended for this recipe. A large

tip of a paring knife. Cut in quarters lengthwise and cut out

avocado averages about 8 ounces. If using smaller or larger

woody core.

size avocados, adjust the quantity accordingly.

JULY 2012

Summer Peach Ice Cream

Ingredients 4 cups peeled, diced fresh peaches (about 8 small ripe peaches) 1 cup sugar 1 (12-ounce) can evaporated milk 1 (3.75-ounce) package vanilla instant pudding mix 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk 4 cups half-and-half

Combine peaches and sugar, and let stand 1 hour.

Process peach mixture in a food processor until smooth, stopping to scrape down sides.

Stir together evaporated milk and pudding mix in a large bowl; stir in peach puree, condensed milk, and halfand-half.

Pour mixture into freezer container of a 4-quart handturned or electric freezer; freeze according to manufacturer’s instructions. Spoon into an airtight container, and freeze until firm.

Ingredients 2½ cups deseeded, diced roma tomatoes (roughly 7 medium) 2-4 cloves garlic, crushed and minced 2 tablespoons good extra virgin olive oil 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar ¼ cup fresh basil, cut into thin ribbons ½ teaspoon of salt, or to taste ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

BreAD 1 fresh baguette, sliced diagonally into ½-inch slices 2 cloves garlic ¼ cup olive oil In a large bowl, combine the prepared tomatoes and garlic. In a small bowl, whisk together the oil and vinegar. Toss with the tomatoes, and add the salt, pepper, and basil. Toss gently and set aside.

Toast the bread to a light golden color. Rub each slice with the whole clove of garlic and quickly brush with olive oil. Spoon 2 tablespoons of bruschetta onto each toast and serve immediately.

Traditional Italian-Style Bruschetta

Bing Cherry Sangria Ingredients cherry syrup 他 cup sugar 他 cup water 1 cup California Bing cherries, pitted sangria 1 (750 ml) bottle fruity red wine, chilled 2 cups California Bing cherries, pitted 2 oranges 2 limes 24-36 ounces mineral water Fresh mint, for garnish (optional)

Directions To make the cherry syrup, combine the sugar, water, and cherries in a medium pot.

Bring to a boil, and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Simmer 5 minutes. Turn off heat, cover, and steep for 15 minutes. Chill. This step can be done a day ahead.

To make the sangria, pour the wine into a glass pitcher. Strain the cherry syrup into the wine, pressing on the solids to release any cherry juice. Squeeze the juice of 1 orange and 1 lime and add to the wine. Slice the remaining fruit into rounds or wedges (for garnish), and add half to the wine along with half the fresh cherries. Add ice and mineral water, to taste. Pour the sangria over glasses of ice, top each glass with a little more mineral water if desired; garnish with sliced fruit, cherries, and mint sprigs.

Nutritional Information (per serving based on 8): 207.57 calories; 0.98 gram protein; 37.24 grams carbohydrates; 0.38 gram fat (0.08 saturated, 0.10 monounsaturated, 0.11 polyunsaturated); 0 mg cholesterol; 11.20 mgs sodium; 2.17 grams fiber; 31.31 grams sugar; 28 percent calories from fat.

Makes 1 pitcher, serving 6-8.

B ODY, M IN D & SP IR IT

JULY 2012

Staying Healthy for Summer

Here are some tips on having a happy & healthy summer vacation:

By STeven h. Wall, M.D.

S

ummer vacations are a great way to

kick back and leave the stresses of everyday life behind. however, this doesn’t mean that you should throw all caution to the wind.

This summer season, planning ahead of time to avoid heat related sickness or injury is a necessity. Why ruin your hard-earned holiday on an avoidable illness or sickness?

remember, summer vacations are all about enjoying yourself; taking that hard-earned break and being with the ones we love. Don’t pay the consequences for something that can be avoided easily and your holiday will be that much more of a good time.

1. Wear sunscreen. Sunscreen is your first line of defense against heat sickness. a sunburned body cannot effectively cool itself off and that makes you more vulnerable.

2. leave tight clothes in the closet. Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing that allows your skin to breathe, and does not absorb the heat of the sun or temperature in the air. loose cotton and linen are your best bets.

3. Drink lots of fluids. Staying hydrated means that your body will have the electrolytes that it needs to function. Make sure that you always have water on hand. If you need an extra jolt of flavor, a powder packet of Crystal light or something similar will do the trick.

4. Know your body, know the symptoms. heat sickness begins with subtle changes and can progress to heat stroke quickly. Some signs of heat sickness can include headache, fatigue, weakness, muscle cramps and nausea. Be aware of how you are feeling, and your exposure to the sun/heat. If you are feeling differently, seek a cool shady place and hydrate.

5. Cover your melon. Use a hat, umbrella, or parasol to keep the sun at bay.

Gravitate to any shady area when you can. The sun and warmth might be attractive at first, but no one wants to look like an old leather handbag in ten years. your skin, and dermatologist, will thank you later.

San J o aqui n Wo m an

33

6. Wash your hands often, and be aware of what you are touching. While traveling, airports and public restrooms are a breeding ground for germs. Wash your hands every chance you get, and be aware of touching your face. The less contact you have with handrails and door handles, the better.

9. Keep cool in the aC. The Mayo Clinic states that one of the best ways to beat heat-related illnesses is to be in an air-conditioned space. Take a break from the midafternoon heat, see a movie in a theater, eat lunch inside, or go back to your room for a siesta. you will be wellrested and grateful for the break from the sun.

7. Get your shots. For those traveling overseas, make sure to contact your family physician to find out if you need any vaccinations to keep you healthy while on holiday.

10. Use the buddy system. Groups and couples can more easily monitor each other. If your partner or spouse is losing the pep in their step, maybe it’s time for a break. have a sit-down with a cold beverage, or go back to the hotel for a little break. The point of a vacation is to get relaxed and refreshed, not exhausted.

8. avoid the super-exotic food. let’s face it, not all of us are anthony Bourdain. We are not experienced enough with local exotic cuisine to know what is potentially dangerous to us. no one wants to get food poisoning or any foodrelated sickness on vacation. Stick to fully cooked food, bottled water, and restaurants that are recommended in the guidebooks.

Dr. Wall has been practicing Family Medicine in Stockton for more than 30 years. he practices at St. Joseph’s Medical Group of Stockton, 3132 W. March lane. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Wall call (209) 475-5500

M IN D, BODY & SP IR IT

JULY 2012

health profile. Following a system that is targeted to your

body’s

individual needs,

as

opposed to a

By SUSan SPraCher

W

“one-

size-fits-all” diet, is more likely to

i t h

deliver positive results.

summer in full

The Blood Type Diet®

swing,

not

many

only

produces

of us have had

weight loss but carries

the occasion to visit

the added benefit of

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restoring the natural protective functions of the

for your type. It’s likely that you can maintain a

from the american heart association’s 2012

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new way of eating if the change is not

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drastic. By removing weight-gaining foods

20 and older, 149.3 million are overweight

Getting started requires knowing your

and replacing them with foods more suitable

or obese, facing a bathing suit can be an

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your type, you’ll be ready to read eat right 4

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There are many diet plans available to

contains the road map and the science behind

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the essential defining factor in an individual’s

with foods that may be neutral or beneficial

®

health.

San J o aqui n Wo m an

35

B ODY, M IND & SP IR IT

TRUsT YOUR InTUITIOn BY KIM ROBINSON I

hope the sunshine and summertime are helping you relax and unwind, so you can find the sweetness

in life you so deserve. Slowing down a bit is good for us, and lets our intuition nudge us to show where we’re out of alignment or overly concerned about things. Our natural state is to be in flow with the life force of the planet, not stuck and consumed with worry.

I’m taking readers’ questions this month, as it seems there’s a lot of concern regarding where things are headed; if our economy will right itself; if things will go back to the way they were, and if that Infinite

Possibilities stuff that author and speaker Mike Dooley talks about in his book really works. I want to address your concerns and bring a message of hOPe to everyone, as my view into the future is indeed bright and filled with excitement as we watch our world shift.

Q

Question

Kim, I don’t know where to turn. My husband and I lost our jobs in lending

being able to pay our mortgage again so we don’t lose our home, and

and teaching fields more than six years ago. We’ve done all we can to

getting our old life back. I know you say it works, but we’re losing hope

find employment; even considered relocating if necessary, but nothing has

here, along with everything else. Can you tell us what we’re doing wrong?

magically dropped out of the sky, though I bought the Infinite Possibilities

~ Feeling Finite in lodi.

book you recommend and try to do that. We focus on getting new jobs,

A

36

Answer

My heart goes out to you, Finite… I’ve been there too! laid off from my

Instead of focusing on finding new jobs, see your selves working at

escrow job in 2007, a moment of panic had me wondering where I’d find

new careers; excited and motivated to be of service to others and receiving

employment. I meditated, asking inner guidance to show the best course

great rewards in return. Tell the Universe what your passion is! how you

of action. The answer came back – “create your own career.” That was a

want to live your purpose! If you’re uncertain about your purpose, think

shock…but I knew better than to question it.

back to when you were a child and rediscover what brought you joy and

help can come from many directions, so meditate, pray and open up to

filled you with passion. Childhood fun can be turned into great ideas for

messages you receive, even if they surprise you. reach deep and be willing

careers that truly satisfy you as my coaching clients can attest. Sit down with

to change. Spirit isn’t afraid to rock our comfort zones. We’re entering a

your husband and list all the things you both do well. My guess is you have

time of heart-based business built on connection and being able to know,

plenty of skills and knowledge that could be turned into a business that

like and trust proprietors. not quite the “mom and pop” shops of old, but

would bring income very quickly, or help you to look in fields you might not

authenticity, integrity and real value, more than corporate hype, will be the

otherwise have pursued.

new norm. new technologies and new careers are opening up at a rapid

Mike Dooley clearly states we shouldn’t worry about the “how” or the

rate if you look for them. I’ve helped lots of people create and start new

“who.” Just state what you want, reach out to serve, start being grateful

businesses that are thriving, so anything is possible!

nOW and be ready to receive. Best of co-creating to you!

S an J o aqu i n Wo m an

JULY 2012

Q

Question

hi, I’m 24 years old. I saw your article and wasn’t sure what to think. Okay,

magazines and books and learned about a “shift.” They make it seem good,

at first I didn’t believe we could hear angels or guides, or use thoughts to

but does this mean the end is coming that the Bible talks about? It sure

create. I was afraid because my church teaches us that we aren’t supposed

seems like it, with all the wars and natural disasters and stuff. lots of hate

to try to talk to them. But the angel thing stuck with me. I still don’t hear

and violence. I read a book on Buddhism that says not to be afraid. People

angels, but I’ve noticed I see things differently and feel things I didn’t use

are afraid but don’t want to say it out loud. What do your angels say is going

to – that consciousness you talk about, I guess. I started to read spiritual

to happen? ~ Trying to be Zen

A

Answer

Dear Zen, I know it gets confusing with all the different beliefs of what

things FaSTer from the Universe. We’re seeing society make huge changes

lies ahead being passed around. My understanding is the shift is a GOOD

without completely breaking apart. The phoenix is actually rising BeFOre the

ThInG! We’ve been living under a band of energy that held negativity in

ashes hit the ground. I don’t have room here to herald all the good news, so

place for a very long time, and we’ve now entered a phase of positivity and

please check out the book The Mother of Invention by neale Donald Walsch,

light, allowing us to discard the lower-level thoughts, feelings and emotions

author of Conversations with God. you’ll discover how interconnected we

we clung to in the past. We’re waking up and remembering how to think

are, and how together we can bring forth the new paradigm. The angels are

for ourselves instead of allowing information to be funneled into us via the

working hard to make it happen, so let’s give them a hand, shall we?

media, or established educational modes. We’re tuning in and discovering

as the cleansing energy enfolds the planet and love becomes the

that like crystal radios, we can hear from the cosmos, and connect outwardly

overriding emotion, release fear and Be love. Use your intuition. Follow

by going inward. The Universe is supporting us, never fear!

your nudges. Be empathetic. The dawning of aquarius is here! I know

now more than ever it’s imperative to laugh away your fears, floss your

because the angels are wearing party hats and tweeting on little blowers

subconscious mind to remove ideas and beliefs that create things you DOn’T

and dancing to some old Prince song about it being 1999. They really need

want, focus quickly on what you do want, then detach and move into action.

to get with the times, but they’re so happy, I’ll wait till December 21st to say

The old paradigm is leaving; the new one coalescing. That means you’ll get

anything. rock on angels, rock on!

DO YOU HAVE A QUESTION FOR KIM?

Email your questions to kimrobinsonintuitive@gmail. com, and you may find your answers in the next edition of San Joaquin Woman magazine.

Kim Robinson is an intuitive life coach in Stockton. Combined with her unique gift of intuition, her non-standard approach helps people deal with issues such as grief, low self-esteem, anger, depression, substance abuse, compulsive behavior, financial difficulties, sexual abuse, control issues, and weight and eating disorders, just to name a few.

WWW.KIMROBINSONINTUITIVE.COM San J o aqui n Wo m an

37

FEATUR E

PhOTOS By lInDSay OrTeZ

I

f you are shopping for antiques, vintage items, shabby chic or contemporary

home decor, Second hand rose will have something to excite you! Since opening the lodi location in 1996, Second hand rose has been voted “Best antique Store” in San Joaquin County for several consecutive years. With new items arriving daily, you are sure to find unique treasures to satisfy your taste.

SECOND HAND ROSE 14 North School Street • Lodi (209) 339-1166 secondhandrose.info

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S an J o aqu i n Wo m an

JULY 2012

Owner Chris hoffman

Y L I M FA , alicia Gamble, Christina Olivas , as liv O hn Jo ble, ne Olivas, ble, austin Gam la Wilmette, re el am G ab Is hn , Jo te et ll, m he ill te, Maddux W , Cheyenne Mitc ht, Zack Meeks , raquel Willmet te et m ill W d Te From left to rig ble, , Savannah Gam nal Park Michelle Olivas yosemite natio at as liv O no ria So & as vistor Oliv

Shaun, amanda, and Shelby Wilder Wilder family trip to Seattle

John & Donna Olivas in Maui

JULY 2012

angelica r uiz and dau ghter Marisa Jim enez in Ch icago

Claudia, Carlos, Tony & elina – The ruiz Family yosemite national Park

Mathew ethan hernandez, Cody Wiebe, and Destiny Simonson, victoria Simonson Baptista

aaliyah Janica ramirez, z, ire m : ra ht er rig th to es, richard left z III, es irez, Serena Flor m ., randy ramire Sr ra z a re ire m nd a ra , y rand Chavez irez at alcatraz. & richard ram mirez Jr., Marty s la ra Sa ny x ra le a z, z, ire ram e ramire Salas, antoinett Chavez, vivian

S N O I T A VAC left to right: a shton Berge, ev en Berge and Camden Berge at hidden Falls regional Park in auburn, Ca.

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The Magazine For San Joaquin Women A

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