Traditions of Braselton January 2019

The Official Newsletter of the Traditions of Braselton Community

January 2019 Vol. 6 Iss. 1

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Traditions of Braselton

HELPFUL NUMBERS

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Public Schools Gum Springs Elementary West Jackson Primary School West Jackson Intermediate School West Jackson Middle School Jackson County Comp. High School

706-654-5580 706-654-2243 706-654-2044 706-654-2775 706-367-5003

Private Schools Jackson Trail Christian School Lanier Christian Academy North Georgia Christian School

706-367-9418 678-828-8350 678-828-8350

Child Care & Preschools Elite Academy First Steps Childcare of Braselton Georgia Kids Academy

706-658-2343 706-658-4075 706-654-5437

College & Universities Brenau Academy & University UGA Visitors Center Georgia Perimeter College University of North Georgia

770-534-6299 706-542-0842 678-407-5000 706-398-3000

Medical Facilities Athens Regional Medical Center Northridge Medical Center Barrow Regional Medical Center St. Mary’s Hosptial

706-475-7000 706-335-1000 770-867-3400 706-398-3000

Recreational Facilities Traditions Golf Club Chateau Elan Winery Jackson County Parks & Rec Winder-Barrow Community Theatre Tanger Factory Outlets

706-363-9963 678-425-0900 706-367-6350 770-867-1679 706-335-3354

Goverment Services Jackson County Fire Department Jackson County Sheriff’s Department Jackson County Animal Control Department of Motor Vehicles Motor Vehicle Registration Tax Commissioner Voter Registration Dept. of Driver Services (Athens) Dept. of Driver Services (Gainesville) Braselton Post Office Jefferson Post Office

706-367-1911 706-367-6000 706-367-5480 706-535-6940 706-367-6320 706-367-6325 706-367-6377 706-552-4427 770-532-5308 706-654-3301 800-275-8777

Utilities/Services Jackson Electric Membership Corp.

706-367-5281 Windstream 866-445-5880 Jackson County Water/Sewer 706-367-1741 Direct TV 888-777-2454 Dish Network 800-333-3474 Country Boy Satellites 706-677-3394 Jackson EMC Security 706-367-5281 Garbage Hound Trash Service 706-658-2679 Waste Pro 706-227-3222 Important Website www.traditionsofbraselton.org To advertise in Traditions, contact Leah Nelson at The Times - 770.535.6330 lnelson@gainesvilletimes.com Traditions is a publication of The Times. Subject matter published is the opinion of the author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher of this newsletter. Professional advice should be obtained before making any decision in which a professional is readily available. Advertisers assume responsibility for the content of the ads placed in publication. Material published may not be reproduced without the written permission of The Times. The information and advertisements contained in this Newsletter are provided for the members of the Traditions of Braselton Homeowners Association as a courtesy only. No representations are made as to information presented, the quality of the goods or services advertised, or the veracity of the statements relating to the goods and services. The printing of opinions, information or advertisements does not constitute an endorsement by the Neighborhood or such opinions, information, goods or services.

Traditions of Braselton

4

Committee Member Listing

5

2019 Events

6

Social News

12 Calendar 14 Health 16 Visit With Santa 18 Sip & Shop 20 January Puzzle 22 Empty Nesters 23 Events 24 Weight Loss Goals?

Resident Amenities Card Replacement and Notary Services available at the HOA office at 401 Delaperriere Loop. Please call HOA office at 706-654-9121.

Lost Pet/Animal Disturbances: For lost pets, dangerous animals and/or unclaimed pets, please contact Jackson County Animal Control at 706-367-5480 Mailbox Replacement/Repair: Brett Schwartz: 918-605-4209 Traditions Grille: 706-363-9963 x4 Hours of Operation: Monday: 11AM-3PM Friday: 11AM-9PM Tuesday : Closed Saturday: 8AM-4PM Wednesday: 11AM-9PM Sunday: 8AM-4PM Thurdays: 11AM-3PM

e m o c l e W

to our new residents

Mary & Charlie Parker Dallas & Keri Jones Matthew Levy Edward & Pamela Hardgrove William & Dorothy Clarkson Matthew & Amanda Mitchell Eric Smith JANUARY JANUARY2019 2019

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COMMITTEE MEMBER LISTING Board of Directors

Grounds Committee

Social Committee

boardofdirectors@traditionsofbraselton.org Mike Rosenberg Whit Marshall Paul Thompson

grounds@traditionsofbraselton.org

socialcommittee@traditionsofbraselton.org

Meets the 3rd Thursday of the Month at 5:00 pm

Meets the 3rd Tuesday of the month at 7pm

Architectural Review Board arb@traditionsofbraselton.org Don Kolb (HOA Rep) Hunter Bicknell (HOA Rep) Whit Marshall Michael Hart (Architect) Mike Rosenberg Addison Wilson

Jim Barbieri, Chair David Green Steve Morrell Jerry Hohman Cheryl Domineau Lane Thompson Jane Gladden

Recreation Area reacreation@traditionsofbraselton.org Brett Schwartz *Please email manager@traditionasofbraselton.org

Community Control Committee communitycontrol@traditionsofbraselton.org

if you are interest in serving.

Empty Nesters

Quartly Meeting

Hospitality Committee

Finance Committee

hospitalitycommittee@traditionsofbraselton.org Carol Higbie, Chair Kathy Buffington Donna Thompson Sheree Whigham Tommye Stewart Connie Freeman Beverly Davis Helen Parsek Sherry Green Kay Costantino Portia Ocampo

Michael Rubio, Chair Hunter Bicknell Gregg Adams Debbie Fratini Earl Doan finance@traditionsofbraselton.org Quarterly Meeting

Bryan Allen, Chair Steve Morrell Keith Tipton Wayne Davis Jeff Holloway Beth Grimes Donna Cowart

Communication Committee communications@traditionsofbraselton.org Lloyd Ocampo Cindy Hohman Debbie Fratini

Capital Improvements & Special Projects capitalimprovements@traditionsofbraselton.org Meets the 3rd Monday of the month from 6:30-7:30pm

David Ehrhardt, Chair Beth Grimes Kenny Whitworth Jason Kilgore William Patterson Dan Nevill

Sheila Anderson, Chair Melissa Pilgrim Caroline Pergantus Heather Bennett Kelli Eureka Tracy Pagano Danielle Connor Ashley Cooper Annette McDonald Kelly Hannifin Deb Stone Joy Turner

Tennis Committee tenniscommittee@traditionsofbraselton.org Ginger Reeves, Chair Julie Jones Amie Botts

emptynesters@traditionsofbraselton.org Cheryl Morrell, Chair Janice Barbieri Beth Eggleston Nancy Bolen Cindy Hohman Kay Hyslop Margaret Hanson Carol Higbie Lynn Kolb

Neighborhood Watch neighborhoodwatch@traditionsofbraselton.org Haley Myers, Chair Tom Badura Jay Cleveland Wayne Davis Cheryl & Jim Domineau Ralph NeSmith Richard & Tina Carlson Mauricio Cerri Robert Evans Michael Goodman Rich Doeding Larry Miller Sherry & Scott Davis Notary Services available. please call for availability.

Traditions of Brselton Is Professionaly Managed By: Community Management Associates, Inc. Management Office:

Jennifer M. Giacin, CAM 401 Delaperriere Loop Jefferson, GA 30549 706-654-9121 jgiacin@cmacommunities.com

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JANUARY 2019

Administrative Assistant:

Jenny Guess 401 Delaperriere Loop Jefferson, GA 30549 706-654-9121 | Fax: 706-654-9127 jguess@cmacommunities.com

Corporate office:

1465 Northside Drive, Suite 128 Atlanta, GA 30318 404-835-9100 Fax: 404-835-9200 Hours: Mon. - Fri. 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Traditions of Braselton

2019 E V E N T S

Save the Date!

JUNE

2019 EVENTS

PLEASE RSVP Just a reminder, Traditions has grown so much it is imperative that we do the RSVP system so the Social Committee can plan accordingly! When we use an event company to plan parties we pay per person and we must give head counts usually a week out. So, be on your toes and don’t forget to RSVP please…even for free events!

JANUARY

17th: Team Trivia: 7 pm at the Grille 28th: Traditions of Braselton Annual Meeting: 6:30 pm Sign-In 7:00 pm Call to Order.

Location: West Jackson Middle School

MARCH

2nd: Empty Nesters Event 15th: Spring Divot Repair Party (Golf Club) 21st: Team Trivia: 7 pm at the Grille 23rd: 70’s & 80’s Party

APRIL

1st to 5th: Spring Break 13th: Empty Nesters Putting on the Green (Golf Club) 14th: Easter Egg Hunt (Golf Club) 18th: Team Trivia: 7 pm at the Grille 19th: Chastain Night 20th: Egg Hunt Rain Date 27th: Community Yard Sale & Shredding Day 29th: Quarterly Community Meeting: 6:30 pm Sign-In/Meet & Greet 7:00 pm Call to Order

MAY

Traditions Celebrates Graduates 1st: Pool Opens 4th: Empty Nesters Derby Day 10th: Member for a Day at the Golf Club 12th: Mother’s Day Brunch (Golf Club) 16th: Team Trivia: 7 pm at the Grille 19th: Pool Party & Hospitality Open House for New Residents 24th: Last Day of School Traditions of Braselton

JULY

TBD: Empty Nesters Pool Party TBD: Music on the Veranda (Golf Club) 4th: July 4th Parade & Celebration 18th: Team Trivia: 7 pm at the Grille

AUGUST

FEBRUARY

2nd: Empty Nesters Super Bowl Party 21st: Team Trivia: 7 pm at the Grille 22nd: Member for a Day at the Golf Club 23rd: Committee Appreciation Dinner 28th: Homeowner Launch Event hosted by Paran Homes 4 pm-7 pm Location: Owners Clubhouse

TBD: Empty Nesters Pool Party TBD: Music on the Veranda (Golf Club) 15th: Community Event (Fun Golf Event, Afternoon Pool Party, Cookout and Tennis) 20th: Team Trivia: 7 pm at the Grille

TBD: Empty Nesters Pool Party TBD: Music on the Veranda (Golf Club) 4th: Back to School Bash 15th: Team Trivia: 7 pm at the Grille 16th: Member for a Day at the Golf Club 24th: Casino Night 26th: Quarterly Community Meeting

SEPTEMBER

6th: Empty Nesters Event 19th: Team Trivia: 7 pm at the Grille 28th: SHEILA FEST 30th: Pool Closes

OCTOBER

TBD: Wine Tasting TBD: Craft Event 6th: Hospitality Open House for New Residents 12th: Fall Yard Sale 17th: Team Trivia: 7 pm at the Grille 18th: Kids Halloween Party

NOVEMBER

TBD: Holiday Sip & Shop 8th: Empty Nesters Event 18th: Quarterly Community Meeting 29th: Member for a Day at the Golf Club 30th: Decorate Traditions

DECEMBER

6th: Empty Nesters Christmas Party 7th: Pancakes with Santa 14th: Golf Course Tour of Lights Event 19th: Team Trivia: 7 pm at the Grille **Dates and times are subject to change, please check back and look for announcements** JANUARY 2019

5

SOCIAL NEWS

TRAVELS OF THE

Lotus Family!

We started off our adventure in the modern/medieval Barcelona Spain and ended up in the Athens Greece.

Ten ports of call from France, Italy, Sicily and the Greek Islands. It was an amazing adventure that we will always remember. The next one we will be cruising the Baltic sea.

David Loftus

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JANUARY 2019

Traditions of Braselton

Traditions of Braselton

JANUARY 2019

7

SOCIAL NEWS

STAY CONNECTED, TRADITIONS!

If you have not yet done so, we encourage you to register your e-mail address with our community website. Please go to www.tradofbraselton. com. Click on the tab that says “Login,” and then the tab that says “Request Login.” That will take you to a brief form to be completed. Once completed and submitted, you will have access to the full Traditions of Braselton website which includes announcements, important documents, calendars, and an ongoing message board for residents.

Please also check out and Like our Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/pages/Traditions-of-Braselton/656536547767097.

The beautiful golf course here at Traditions of Braselton, operated by ClubCorp, can be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/tobgolfclub.

There are several different membership options available, and membership at the golf club is another good way to meet your neighbors.

Service When it Fits Your Schedule!

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JANUARY 2019

Delivery to Traditions!

Traditions of Braselton

SOCIAL NEWS

SWEET POTATO RISOTTO Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 50 minutes Ready in: 55 minutes INGREDIENTS:

Happy New Year TRADITIONS OF BRASELTON! We wish health, happiness and success for you in 2019!

5 3 ½ 2 ¼ 1 1 2 ½ ½ 2 1

cups chicken broth tablespoons olive oil cup white onion (chopped) cups Arborio rice (short grain) cup unsweetened coconut milk (15 ounce) can Bruce’s® Yams Cut Sweet Potatoes (in Syrup, drained, syrup reserved) tablespoon apple cider vinegar tablespoons parsley (minced) teaspoon sea salt (or more to taste) teaspoon white pepper (ground) tablespoons butter (optional) lime (zested)

DIRECTIONS: 1. Bring chicken stock to a simmer in a saucepan and keep warm.

2. Place oil in a separate (large) saucepan. Add onion and sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Pour in rice and stir so that all grains of rice are coated. Add broth (1 cup at a time) and stir until liquid has been absorbed. After all broth has been absorbed, stir in coconut milk.

4. Drain the Bruce’s® Yams Cut Sweet Potatoes, reserving 1/4 cup syrup. Add syrup to rice and cook until rice starts to become light and creamy.

5. Stir in sweet potatoes (chunks will break down), cider vinegar, parsley, salt, and pepper. When incorporated, remove from heat and stir in butter (optional).

6. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with freshly grated lime zest.

Traditions of Braselton

JANUARY 2019

9

SOCIAL NEWS

P

A NEW TRADITION FOR

Traditions A LETTER FROM CAROL HIGBIE

lease consider this my heartfelt thank you note to all of our friends and neighbors in Traditions of Braselton.

Because of each of you, our neighborhood was able to come together on Saturday evening, December 15 for the first Traditions Parade of Holiday Lights. The Golf Club did a magnificent job hosting the event, the Christmas Committee exceeded all expectations with the neighborhood decorations, the Social Committee provided great advice and assistance, the CMA Office helped with everything from planning to execution, and the Hospitality Committee made a “wild idea” into a reality for our neighborhood.

It all began back in the spring when the committee chairs met to plan the calendar for the year to ensure we weren’t double booking activities. Casey Haney, the Director of Operations for the Traditions Golf Course was also in attendance because, if you remember, our owner’s clubhouse was undergoing renovation and the golf club graciously agreed to help host a number of activities. During that meeting, I said, “Wouldn’t it be fun if we could get all of the folks who live on the golf course to decorate the backs/sides of their houses for the Christmas season? Then maybe one night we could have everyone meet up at the golf

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JANUARY 2019

club and drive golf carts through the whole cart path to look at the lights…and have cookies and hot chocolate at the grill when they get back.”

Everyone in the room thought it would be a fun idea and the Hospitality Committee agreed to take the lead in planning (as long as the others agreed to help!).

I mean, what could possibly go wrong?

As we got closer and closer to December, my mind was a tailspin.

Why had I opened my big mouth? How in the world were we going to pull this off? Fortunately, Casey, Jennifer Giacin, Nancy Bolen, Sheila Anderson and Cheryl Morrell convinced me that it could be done.

But what about people who don’t own golf carts? How could they participate? “No problem,” Casey said, “they can use the golf club carts.” But the golf club carts don’t have lights and that cart path is tricky even in the daylight. Again, Casey reassured me that he would figure out some type of illumination even if the drivers of the carts had to wear miner’s helmets with spotlights.

Traditions of Braselton

SOCIAL NEWS And what about liability? There are no private carts allowed on the cart path during normal circumstances for that reason.

Again, Casey assured me there would be a way to work that out by having participants sign a waiver of liability.

What if no one in the neighborhood wanted to do it? I mean, it’s not like we would be doing light displays comparable to Stone Mountain or Lake Lanier. But that fear was also unfounded when more than 350 friends and neighbors registered to participate.

My most dreaded fear of all was what if only a handful of people who live on the golf course chose to put out lights. Sleepless nights ensued.

And then, of course, Mother Nature decided to intervene in our plans by sending torrential rains for days upon days leading up to the night of the parade. I can assure you that I was consulting David Chandley and Glenn Burns on a regular basis hoping that one of them would convince me we’d be able to proceed.

And then December 15 arrived. Skies were cloudy, but by midday, there were small glimpses of sunshine off and on. Around 4:30pm, my husband and I went to set out the luminary bags we had purchased along the portion of the cart path next to our house. And the rain began again!!

Fortunately, we had battery operated candles so we just set our soggy luminary bags out and decided to hope for the best.

Imagine the excitement of all our Hospitality Committee members when we arrived at the golf club around 5:00pm and soon had neighbors showing up to register for their parade time slot. And while they waited, they were treated to some delectable

Traditions of Braselton

snacks, coffee, cocoa, and cider. Plus, there was a firepit set up on the patio with all the fixings for s’mores (another Casey Haney idea)! Soon the first group had departed, and then the second, and then the third.

Bruce and I went out with the 5th group and I was still holding my breath. Would there be enough houses decorated to make the event worthwhile? Oh my goodness, you simply blew me away!! There were so many houses decorated…and such beautiful decorations. There were Santas, there were reindeer, there were gorgeous Christmas trees, there were lighted wreaths and lighted fences. There were Nativity scenes, and snowmen and so many beautiful decorations that I could hardly believe my eyes. People were on their back porches or decks playing Christmas music and shouting “Merry Christmas.” There was a young person playing Christmas music on his trumpet when we passed hole #8. Other neighbors there had a popcorn machine set up along with a big screen showing “The Polar Express.”

At the end of the evening, we had more than 250 neighbors who took the tour. The weather kept some who registered from participating but there were other “walk-ups” who were happy to take those slots. So many of the neighborhood children told me they had a great time, and they were able to visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus in the golf clubhouse, too!

So again, please accept my deepest and heartfelt thanks for making the night memorable and special. Without your participation, this would have just been a “wild idea;” instead, I’ve already been asked if we can make this an annual tradition for Traditions. Want to?

JANUARY 2019

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CALENDAR

January

2019

S

M

T

W

1

2

8-9 am: Kickboxing

6:30-8:30 pm: Open Bible Study

Management Office CLOSED

8-9:30 am: Yoga

T

F

S

3

4

5

10

11

12

17

18

19

7-10 pm: Team Trivia (Golf Club)

9 am - 4pm: Quilting Class

24

25

Private Event

New Year’s Day 6

7

8

8-9 am: Kickboxing

9

8-9:30 am: Yoga

10 am- 12pm: ARB meeting

Private Event

6:30-8:30 pm: Open Bible Study

13

20

14

15

8-9 am: Kickboxing 7-8 pm: Social Committee Meeting 7-10:pm Empty Nesters Card Game

21

HOA Office CLOSED 8-9:30 am: Yoga

22

8-9 am: Kickboxing

28

8-9:30 am: Yoga ANNUAL MEETING 6:30 pm: Sign-In 7 pm: Call to Order

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8-9:30 am: Yoga 6:30-8:30 pm: Open Bible Study

23

8-9:30 am: Yoga

5-6 pm: Grounds Committee Meeting

Management Office CLOSED (CMA Event)

26

6:30-8:30 pm: Open Bible Study

Martin Luther King Day 27

16

29

8-9 am: Kickboxing

30

8-9:30 am: Yoga

31

6:30-8:30 pm: Open Bible Study

Traditions of Braselton

SOCIAL NEWS

LEASHED VS. UNLEASHED TROUBLE IN THE STREETS!

By Penny Miller We’ve all been there....You’re walking down the street on a beautiful summer evening with your beloved pooch on leash.

He’s happily sniffing away, taking in the wonders of the world and enjoying the moment, as are you. All’s right with the world....until...out of nowhere, comes a dog that you’ve never seen, running right at you. Is he going to bite you? Is he going to attack your dog? Does he just want to play? Are you dangerously close to his home and he’s warning you to back off? All of these things go through every dog owner’s mind in this situation; and rightly so. Being confronted with an off-leash dog, even when the owner is in sight, can be a scary event for anybody, no matter how well we think we understand dog behavior.

A few years ago, I was walking in the subdivision we used to live in before we moved to the Desperate Dogs ranch here in Braselton, and I had my dog Freddie with me. We were really enjoying our evening stroll, some carefully carved out ‘mom and me’ time, when out of nowhere came three small dachshunds, gunning right for us, not a leash or an owner in sight. Twelve years working with dogs and certainly no fear of little dogs with attitude meant that I grinned a bit and thought ‘Seriously?’ I was so busy chuckling that I almost didn’t bother to glance down at Freddie, who works aggression cases with me here at the ranch.

When I did, I noticed that the poor dog was showing classic signs of anxiety. His ears were back, his tail was down, his eyes were rounded, pupils dilated and he really wasn’t enjoying the prospect of their arrival too much at all. It was then that I realized I was only seeing things from my point of view....but how very different the world looks when you’re so much closer to the ground. In human terms, just because someone is short, does it make them any less menacing if they are brandishing a knife?

To Freddie, normally very confident around every dog, he didn’t like the look of these low riding terrorists and was scared as to what might happen. I quickly threw my leg forward in front of my dog, allowing him to find sanctuary there and I drew myself up to my full height. He needed a protector in that moment, and my show of confidence let him know that I ‘had this’ - he didn’t have to take care of it himself.

But really...should it have even come to that? Looking back I was angry that my perfectly well mannered and extremely balanced dog had been rendered completely uncomfortable because someone hadn’t bothered to put a leash on their pets. Or as in this case, hadn’t bothered to fence their yard and allowed their dogs to run free, creating havoc in our little community. I was also angry that the hour that I had set aside for our enjoyment was ruined; when I had taken every precaution [leash, water, Traditions of Braselton

poop bags, treats] to ensure it was a great experience. As an owner, you might not see any danger in allowing your dog to run unchecked in the street, and might think that your dog ‘just wants to ‘play’ or even worse ‘He’s really good around traffic, we don’t need a leash’. The fact is you cannot guarantee the actions of your dog. No dog is a robot; just as with humans, they are apt to react very differently if the right set of circumstances presents themselves. Just because he hasn’t ever attacked a dog, doesn’t mean that he won’t ever do so. Just because he’s mild mannered, doesn’t mean if he gets spooked by a huge truck, and then sees a new dog approaching, that he won’t redirect his fears onto that poor dog. Just because he’s great with your grandchildren, doesn’t mean you can trust your dog with every child in the neighborhood when he’s off leash and not under close control. Just because he’s good around traffic, doesn’t mean he won’t run after a squirrel or a cat and get hit by a car... the list is endless.

As pet owners, it is very much our responsibility to keep our dogs safe, but also to keep the community safe from our dogs.

County ordinances, as well as Traditions covenants, dictate that we need to keep our dogs on leash in public areas and contained safely in our homes and gardens. Dogs running loose and off leash, even if we are with them, run the risk of being injured by traffic or being involved in a fracas with other animals. Another scenario is that if we aren’t with them, some well meaning dogooder can think your dog is a stray. I myself found a Shih Tzu running off leash in Traditions about three months ago, the dog looked frightened to death, so I stopped to get the poor thing in my car thinking I would at least get him to the shelter in the hope someone would claim him. As many of you know, if a dog isn’t claimed, the chances of survival up at the local shelter are practically nil due to overcrowding. Thankfully, as I tried to catch the dog, a neighbor drove up and told me he knew the dog and would run him home. He said that the dog got out all the time, and “It’s a wonder he’s not been killed by a car”. The very person who loves that little dog, who vowed to care for him and provide a safe environment for him, willingly and recklessly allowed him to continually run the streets, putting him at risk.

It’s so sad, and so unnecessary. If you have a dog, please leash him in public areas or confine him safely to your home area. It’s not only the law...his very life depends on it.

Penny Miller is a dog whisperer and runs Desperate Dogs ranch in Braselton. www.desperatedogsusa.com www.facebook.com/desperatedogsusa Read the Desperate Dogs blog ‘The Dog’s Honest Truth’ at www.desperatedogsusa.net JANUARY 2019

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H E A LT H

START OFF 2019 WITH A CLEAR GOAL OF LOSING THE WEIGHT FOR GOOD THIS YEAR! It starts in the mind. Sometimes, what or how we eat is tied to our emotions (depression) or some past trauma or event. Anger, depression and negative emotions can trigger eating disorders and the like. To lose and keep the weight off, get to the root of the problem.

Consider going to a support group (Overeaters Anonymous, etc.), speak with a counselor or someone you trust and can talk to (even better if that person/group share the same struggles and has weight loss success). Also, journaling before or after eating/ binging can be therapeutic and give you a lot of insight as to why you overeat or eat when you’re not hungry. Simply write down how you’re feeling before and/or after you eat.

Eat for fuel/energy. Food does taste good and is a big part of social and family get togethers, which is great however, food’s main purpose is to provide vital nutrients and energy for our bodies to function and live. Our body breaks down protein, carbs and fat daily to support every cell in our body. Instead of eating out of emotions, figure out what your triggers are and eat to live not live to eat.

Know how many calories your body needs. While our getting emotionally healthy, lose the recommended 1 lb. a week by eating the calories your body needs on a daily basis and exercising. Reduce your daily calories by 500 (250 in exercise and 250 in calories for example). Try the one of the many apps out there that can keep track for you like myfitnesspal.com or myplate.com Set goals that are SMART. S – specific, M – measurable, A – attainable, R – relevant, T – timed-based. For example, I want to lose 10 lbs. by March 12th doing 30 minutes of cardio in my HR training zone 5 days a week and 30 minutes of strength training 2 days a week. Set short and long-term goals. Your long goal is to lose a total of 50 lbs./short term to lose 10 pounds.

With goals, make a plan – Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday cardio and Tuesday and Thursday strength training days. Or whatever is doable for you. Have a pair of good shoes and/or your gym clothes in the car so there are no excuses. If you are a morning person, get up 30 minutes extra to do some cardio or lift weights. Set it up so you make exercise and eating the calories your body needs to lose a priority and a habit!!!

Reward yourself as you hit your goals or have changed a behavior. When you achieve that first goal or lose that first 10 lbs., reward yourself with something that isn’t food.

For example, new jeans, massage, or night out with the guys/gals. Reward yourself with anything that will motivate you to reach them and keep going.

Hope you had a very, Merry Christmas and have a very, happy New Year! I hope it’s your healthiest year yet. If you’ve been thinking about hiring a CPT, please contact me about training in your home, my home gym or a convenient location of your choice.

Your first 30-minute session is FREE if you mention this article!

Carol Osborne,

Personal Trainer

Fitness Delivered 678-510-9573

facebook.com/fitnessdelivered • fitnessdeliveredtoyou@gmail.com

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JANUARY 2019

Traditions of Braselton

Retirement...

Are You Ready?

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Winder Public Library 189 Bellview St. Winder, GA 30680 Wednesday, January 23rd IndependentHolistic - Comprehensive Financial Excellence since 1991 Fiduciary Standard of Care

The following topics will be covered:

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Invest for stability, income, growth, and the unexpected.

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Wednesday, January 30th

11:00 am

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11:00 am

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JANUARY 2019

V I S I T W I T H S A N TA

WOW!

DECEMBER WAS A BUSY MONTH! On December 2nd, Mr. & Mrs. Claus came to visit Traditions! What a fun day it was. The kids made ornaments, wrote their letters to Santa, and got to tell Santa what they most wanted for Christmas! It was so wonderful to see so many new families this year!

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Traditions of Braselton

V I S I T W I T H S A N TA

Traditions of Braselton

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SIP & SHOP

FIRST HOLIDAY

Sip & Shop We had our first holiday Sip & Shop on Saturday, December 28th and yes it was yucky out, but it was nice and toasty in the clubhouse! We enjoyed wine and hors d’oeuvres and got some christmas shopping done! Thank you to all of the vendors that participated and thank you to all who came and shopped!

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Traditions of Braselton

SOCIAL COMMITTEE NEWS

Toys FOR iServe Traditions donated $200 in gift cards, a large bag full of knit hats, socks, scarves and art supplies to Toy for iServe.

WE ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO AN EXCITING YEAR IN 2019 FOR EVENTS IN TRADITIONS. HERE ARE SOME TENTATIVE EVENTS WE HAVE ON THE CALENDAR THIS YEAR: MARCH 23 RD 80’s Party

APRIL 14 TH Easter Egg Hunt

MAY 19 TH Pool Party

JULY 4 TH Celebrate the 4th

AUGUST 4 TH Back to School Bash

AUGUST 24 TH Casino Night

SEPTEMBER 28 TH Sheilafest

OCTOBER 18 TH Kid’s Halloween Party

DECEMBER 7 TH Pancakes with Santa

Traditions of Braselton

JANUARY 2019

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Traditions of Braselton

FOCUS ON A NEW YOU WE’LL TAKE CARE

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Traditions of Braselton

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EMPTY NESTERS

Merry Christmas The Empty Nesters rang in the holiday season with their annual Christmas party on Friday, December 7. This was the largest gathering of empty nesters yet, with 72 RSVPing and 69 attending.

Our group was joined this time by Scott Kolb (Lynn and Don Kolb’s son) and Janice Tracy (Mark Allen’s sister). Also joining us for the first time were new(ish) neighbors, Jo and Gary McAlister, who fit right in with their elf sweater (Jo) and light-up Christmas tie (Gary).

After an incredible spread of appetizers, we feasted on roasted turkey breast and ham along with sweet and mashed potatoes, broccoli and other veggie casseroles and a variety of breads. And then there was dessert…too many to taste them all and each one as delicious as the others. Pecan pie, cheesecake, hummingbird cake, German chocolate cake, key lime pie…well you get the picture!

Because our group has grown so large, we had to make a change to our usual “white elephant” gift exchange. After dividing into two

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FROM THE EMPTY NESTERS

circles, one for men and the other for women, everyone selected a wrapped gift from the appropriate stack. Then we began rolling a pair of jumbo dice that instructed the person what to do, i.e., trade gifts with the person on your right/left, open your gift, trade gifts with anyone else in the circle, everyone pass their gifts to the left or right, choose someone else to open their gift, freeze your gift. After everyone had a chance to roll the dice, all were finally invited to open the gift they were left holding. Some of the gifts were funny, some were cute, some were “adult-oriented,” some contained liquid refreshment!

Thanks again to the EN Planning Committee and especially to Cheryl Morrell (our chairperson) for a warm and wonderful evening!

All Traditions residents who are interested in participating are invited to the Empty Nester group. There is no age restriction, but we do not provide childcare. Please email Cheryl Morrell at nanasarge710@ gmail.com if you would like to be added to the Empty Nester roster.

Traditions of Braselton

EVENTS

JEFFERSON RESOLUTION RUN January 1, 2019 Resolution Run (5K, one mile, kids’ dash) is New Year’s Day at Piedmont Park. No pets or wheels.

CHRISTMAS AT STONE MOUNTAIN January 1 - 6, 2019 (begins Nov. 10) Stone Mountain Christmas has 2 million lights, holiday shows, a snow-angel palace, a nightly parade with Santa, and snowfall at Stone Mountain Park. Nearby Snow Mountain has tube rides.

BOAT SHOW January 10 - 13, 2019 See hundreds of new boats, marine gear, and accessories at the Atlanta Boat Show at Georgia World Congress Center.

ITALIAN DINNER & WINE CLASS January 18, 2019 (7 to 9:30 p.m.)

Begin with wine and appetizers, help the chef prepare an Italian meal, and then eat dinner with wine and dessert at $79 Global Cooking & Wine Pairing Series: Under the Tuscan Sun at Vino Venue in Dunwoody.

ANTIQUES SHOW January 24 - 26, 2019 Shop from dozens of dealers of period furniture, jewelry, art, and accessories at Cathedral Antiques Show at the Cathedral of Saint Philip. The tour of homes is held on Sunday.

OYSTER FESTIVAL January 2019 (undated) Oysterfest has “live New Orleans inspired music” with oysters and beverages for sale at Atkins Park Restaurant in Smyrna for age 21+.

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New Year Weight Loss Goals?

BUYER BEWARE

I

t seems that more and more, attempting weight loss can be extremely frustrating for many, especially women. There are more diet plans on the market than we know what to do with.

And each of them claims to have the answer for us to achieve our perfect weight. The weight loss industry has made a killing selling pills, programs, and equipment to us unsuspecting Americans who are desperate for a solution to our weight loss dilemma. Though, that in and of itself, is not wrong per se, it seems that the industry experts are actually just helping to put a band-aid, of sorts, on the real problem…which is our under-functioning digestive systems, systemic inflammation, and low nutrient uptake. Rather than going on a never-ending process of one weight loss gimmick to the next, with the hopes that the next one will do the trick, it is important to realize that, ultimately, the key to healthy weight loss and sustained healthy weight lies in an inside-out approach that is centered upon improving a person’s nutrient absorption, establishing a healthy gut, decreasing inflammation, and great team support through the process, so that you can be successful and live a healthy life—not just look healthy for a short season.

So, why am I sharing this with you? Because I used to be just where you may be as you’re reading this article—overweight,

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fatigued, achy joints, moody, and just not feeling good. I was at a loss for what to do next, although I was eating right, drinking tons of water, and exercising (not just a little walk, but my own boot camp fitness classes) at least three times a week. I am a woman who knows that the struggle for health and healthy weight is REAL, especially after 20 years of marriage, three pregnancies, and caring for my live in father-in-law. And, as a result of figuring out, 8 years ago, that dieting doesn’t work and realizing what does work, I have committed and passionate about educating as many people as I possibly can on the pitfalls of traditional dieting, as well as sharing the one-and-only solution that has worked for me—long-term.

In this article, I’ll share how, every New Year (and beyond), the weight loss industry mostly contributes to our weight loss problem, not helps. And, why when we resort to diets, and use unhealthy eating strategies, we’re digging a deeper hole for ourselves when it comes to our health and weight. Lastly, I’ll share with you the one and only health & weight loss solution that has helped me over the years—why it’s different and goes against the grain of conventional dieting.

Traditions of Braselton

How the Weight Loss Industry Has Contributed to our Obesity Problem?

In the Weight Loss Industry, the impact of good marketing on sales cannot be underestimated. Effective marketing can skyrocket product sales, unfortunately, this is not always a good thing. Our media, along with the $68 billion-a-year weight loss industry1 have perpetually bombarded us (especially our young girls and women) with messages that encourage them to become discontent with their weight and appearance…all to make a profit. It’s rare that you hear a message that is geared toward self-improvement for its own sake. The dieting industry knows that this approach doesn’t sell as well as the idea of improving yourself to fit in or to look good for someone else’s approval or acceptance. It seems that we buy more self-improvement products (especially those tied to appearance) when our motivation is tied to more external factors, and the media and weight loss industry know this and are just capitalizing on what they know to turn a hefty profit. The problem is that because this marketing is so strong and prevalent in society, girls and women of all ages are feeling great pressure to conform out of fear of being ridiculed and judged. This pressure is what is perpetuating the quick weight loss mindset in our culture. Women (and men) are resorting to unhealthy and even dangerous eating programs and strategies that ultimately lead them down the road to failure. And, it has to stop!

WEIGHT LOSS GOALS

There is Good News!

So, at this point, you may be thinking “this gal is just a bunch of bad news” or maybe “I already know all this, but what IS the secret?”

Well, I’m here to tell you that there is good news—a lasting solution for healthy weight loss, but no secret. It’s a solution that is known among almost every other continent. It is a solution held deep in the minds of most of “The Silent” Generation (60+ years old) The key to lasting and sustained healthy weight (or weight loss) is a healthy lifestyle.

Beginning, and ultimately staying on, a healthy lifestyle journey, has been the key for many, including myself, to • increasing energy, • decreasing systemic inflammation • rebooting and maintaining a healthy gut • losing stubborn fat (remember, it’s the fat we want to target, not muscle) • improving overall health • and a host of other specific and general health improvements.

Why Dieting and Other Unhealthy Eating Strategies I don’t believe I have enough room on this page to go into all the are Setting You Up for Failure? details of how to start on your health journey. However, I have found Though marketed as the “solution to all of our weight loss troubles,” many quick weight loss programs and eating plans have a long history of delivering disappointing results.

The problem with traditional diets is that they often do not promote safe weight loss, and certainly do not provide the longlasting results that people ultimately want! Typically, with diets, the weight is lost, but only temporarily, and usually from released water weight and the all-important lean muscle tissue, but very little fat burned. In addition, our metabolism SLOWS down when we resort to these types of diets which causes us to actually burn fewer calories, not more! Then we are less able to burn as many calories as we did prior to beginning the diet. We may or may not lose all of the weight we want with dieting. Lord knows, I’ve lost 20-30 pounds many times in my life. But the sad truth is that the momentary elation, that comes with quick weight loss, soon fades.

And, when the weight returns, we start to have concerns which then turns to fear, frustration, and eventually, we end up right back where we started. (if not heavier). So, let’s break the cycle!

Sheril Burrage, Healthy Living Coach 770-742-9488 www.facebook.com/sjonesburrage Traditions of Braselton

and use a method that has given me and many other clients all of the above benefits and so much more and it’s my pleasure to share the highlights. I am excited to report that embarking on a healthy lifestyle doesn’t require you to count calories, eat no fat, or even low fat yucky “diet” foods. You can eat yummy, clean foods that focus on: • detoxing your body from allergenic and inflammatory foods, as well as environmental toxins that are sabotaging your body’s ability to function effectively • helping you return back to a diet of healthy, nutrient dense, “real & clean” foods • increasing your body’s nutrients , through delicious, toxinfree, safe foods, so that it can heal itself and operate at optimal levels (do you know that in 2016 less more than 95% of Americans did not live in optimal health?2) • cleanse and restart the digestive system and elimination organs Doing the above has allowed me to be healthy, continue to improve my overall health, lose stubborn weight and maintain healthy weight for over 8 years. If you’re looking for easy, but also safe, then I would love to share more free information with you today. And, no worries, if what I do is not for you, I’ll be glad to nudge you in the direction of something that is—providing it is safe.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

COVENANT CORNER Here is a list of common items that violate the Protective Covenants for Traditions of Braselton. Adherence to the covenants helps to preserve the community wide standard and protect your home values. We appreciate all that our residents do to keep Traditions beautiful!

Quick Checklist: ‣ Trash cans must be stored out of view from the street or neighboring properties; ‣ Please submit a modification request for any changes to exterior of your home; ‣ Please keep your property in a clean, well-kept manner (yard tools, debris etc. should be removed promptly). This is includes the rear of your home when your yard is visible from the golf course, any street or neighboring property; ‣ Please ensure that your lawn has been properly treated for weeds and fertilized; lawn maintenance should occur on a regular basis and your lawn and landscape beds should be free of weeds and grass and ample pine straw or mulch should be installed at least twice per year; ‣ Automobiles, trucks and vans must be parked in garages or driveways and may not be parked elsewhere on the property. Unlicensed or inoperable vehicles are considered a nuisance and will be removed. No motorized vehicles are permitted on pathways or unpaved common areas. For example, golf carts should not be operated on sidewalks; ‣ Recreational vehicles including but not limited to motor homes, boats, jet skis, trailers, motorcycles, minibikes, scooters, go carts, golf carts, campers, buses, commercial trucks and vans must be parked in garages or be subject to removal from the property. Recreational vehicles may be operated on the streets within the neighborhood by a licensed driver in accordance with Georgia law; ‣ The exterior of your home should not have any rotting wood, missing shutters, peeling paint, mold or any other unsightly condition; ‣ Yard signs are not permitted. If you have a contractor working on your home please make sure they do not place a sign in your yard; ‣ All pets should be leashed or otherwise controlled by the owner when outside a Unit and shall not be allowed to become a nuisance by barking or other acts. Owners must clean up after their pets. ‣ Mailboxes should be properly maintained. You should have brass numbers on both sides of your mailbox, paint should not be faded or peeling, and post should be strait.

As we have stated in the past, we realize that residents do not like receiving letters from management asking them to correct something that is in violation of the covenants; equally so we do not like having to send requests for compliance but it is a necessary part of managing your property and keeping standards high in your neighborhood. Please help us by proactively keeping your property in compliance. The above list does not constitute a compressive list of covenants but depicts the most common issues that are addressed in the subdivision. Please refer to the Declaration of Covenants for the Traditions of Braselton which can be downloaded from the document center at www.traditionsofbraselton.org.

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Traditions of Braselton

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MAIL TO: 401 Delaperriere Loop, Jefferson, GA 30549

TraditionsofBraseltonRealty.com • 706-664-2830 Homes must close to receive referral. See agent for details. Information believed accurate but not warranted. Prices and specifications subject to change without prior notice.