Giddy-Up - January 2016

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GIDDY-UP

January 2016 DoSouthMagazine.com

CONTENTS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Catherine Frederick CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Scott Frederick MANAGING EDITOR Marla Cantrell CONTRIBUTING WRITERS / PHOTOGRAPHERS Marla Cantrell Marcus Coker Don Lowe Catherine Frederick Rachael McGrew Jessica Meinardus Jessica Sowards Debbie Stuckey Jana Wilson GRAPHIC DESIGNER Artifex 323 - Jessica Mays

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PROOFREADER Charity Chambers ONLINE ASSISTANT Emma Sullins PUBLISHER Read Chair Publishing, LLC

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INSIDE

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THE BIG ESCAPE Could you solve a mystery in an hour or less? What if you had some of your closest friends with you?

That's the concept behind Fort Smith's newest entertainment venue, Cluemasters.

AFTER THE AZORES Arkansas artist, Dana Idlet, on a trip to the Azores, found inspiration for the next phase of her creative life.

What happened when she returned to the Natural State is a story of family, love, and following your heart.

WHITE CHICKEN CHILI How do we welcome January? Yummy, hearty, white chicken chili! Perfect for these chilly nights and so delicious it will please even the pickiest eater!

LEAD ME TO THE LODGE Unplug. Recharge. Get back in touch with nature and one another. All in one of the most gorgeous spots in our region. Big Cedar Lodge is a grand getaway for couples or the entire family!

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

ADVERTISING INFORMATION Catherine Frederick - 479.782.1500 Catherine@DoSouthMagazine.com

Scott Frederick - 479.459.6672 Scott@DoSouthMagazine.com

EDITORIAL INFORMATION Marla Cantrell - 479.831.9116 Marla@DoSouthMagazine.com 息2016 Read Chair Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. The opinions contained in Do South速 are exclusively those of the writers and do not represent those of Read Chair Publishing, LLC. as a whole or its affiliates. Any correspondence to Do South速 or Read Chair Publishing, LLC., including photography, becomes the property of Read Chair Publishing, LLC. Do South速 reserves the right to edit content and images. Printed in the U.S.A. | ISSN 2373-1893

FOLLOW US Annual subscriptions are $30 (12 months), within the contiguous United States. Subscribe at DoSouthMagazine.com or mail check to 7030 Taylor Avenue, Suite 5, Fort Smith, AR, 72916.

Single issues are available upon request for $7.

Inquiries or address changes, call 479.782.1500.

letter from the editor

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The dreaded end of the holiday season has arrived. We’ve taken down all the decorations.

probably knitted fifty scarves. One of the things on my list is to learn to knit other things.

Put the tree back in storage. In just a matter of hours, not a speck of tinsel remained.

This year I will get all of my recipes down

Wish I could say the same for those

on paper. Yes, paper. You can’t hand

holiday pounds I packed on. My son

down a recipe app to your children and

says that the day after Christmas is the

grandchildren! I love the worn paper of

worst day of the year, but I really think

my Mamaw’s recipes, the stains from

it’s the day you take down the beauty

ingredients flying fast and furious in her

of the holidays.

tiny kitchen. But what I love most is that I can see her precious handwriting. Tiny

Now we turn to what I call the do-over season. The time of year when we break out the stark white paper and begin our master list

letters, scrawled out in a hurry. I’ll get all my family favorites, both mine and my Mamaw’s, written down in one cherished book.

of things we resolve to start doing, do better, or stop doing altogether. I’ve learned a lot about these lists. I rarely

I’ll also be printing the pictures I take of family and friends.

ever adhere to them, no matter how much I want or need to.

Gasp! Printing pictures? Yes! And I’ll be placing them in albums

This year must be different. I need this year to be different.

like my mom did back in the day. I take a ton of pictures now, on my phone, and that’s where they stay. The potential for all

More than ever, I recognize what people older and much wiser

those photos, those memories, being lost is too much to bear.

than me said was true. Time passes so quickly. When you’re

I’ll preserve them and pass the albums down right along with

young, you’d do anything for time to speed up. Get to high

that recipe book—and a scarf or two.

school. Drive a car. Get married. Have kids. And then BOOM. You look up and your ten-year-old son is practically looking

And lastly, I’ve said it before but I’ll say it again. I’m going to unplug

you in the eyes, and you wear the same size shoe. My son is

more. Close up the computer at a reasonable hour and put down

growing up at such a rapid pace that my heart can barely take

the phone. Tune in to my family. Actively listen. Talk with each

it. He is my baby. At least that’s what I see when I gaze at him

other. Have family game nights. Bake cookies from scratch. Play a

while he sleeps. I beg time to just stand still, but it never listens.

game of basketball in the backyard. Take a hike. Just be together.

Before long, he’ll surpass me in height, he’ll be driving, and then he’ll want to go to college. I keep telling him that’s fine—

Time slows down for no one. But this year, I’ll make the most out

as long as I can come along.

of the time I’m given, and I’ll soak up every second. I hope you’ll resolve to do the same. Wishing you a blessed New Year!

Alas, I do have a few to-do's on my list of resolutions this year that I'm adamant about. I recently took up knitting. Stop laughing! It’s relaxing, and now, no one in my house, including the dogs, has a cold neck—I’ve

~Catherine

Follow Do South® Magazine

To reserve this free space for your charitable non-profit organization, email: Editors@DoSouthMagazine.com

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calendar

JANUARY

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Submit your events to editors@dosouthmagazine.com

Here's a great way to start the new year. Run! Or walk. Either option will get you into the Tutu Run -5K & 1/4 Marathon on January 9.

The race, which begins at 9:00am, starts and ends at Ben Geren Park in Fort Smith. And don't forget, there's even an award for best tutu. See website for pricing.

Harlem Globetrotters North Little Rock

runsignup.com/wabtuturun

Bobby Bones and The Raging Idiots Walton Arts Center Fayetteville The entire family will enjoy a night watching the world famous Harlem Globetrotters play their super entertaining brand of basketball. Epic skills on the court and a knack for showmanship will have you on the edge of your seat, watching their every move. Their trip to the Verizon Arena in North Little Rock is part of the Globetrotters' 90th anniversary world tour. The game on January 8 starts at 7:00pm. See website for pricing. harlemglobetrotters.com

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Western Arkansas Ballet's Tutu Run 5K & 1/4 Marathon Fort Smith

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The Ultimate Wedding Fayre Fort Smith

You'll find everything you need to plan your big day, from wedding gowns, tuxedos, florists, caterers, bakers, photographers, to DJs, and gift registries. The event runs from 1:00pm - 4:00pm on January 10 at the EpiCenter by Movie Lounge. The first 50 brides-to-be will receive swag bags, and there will be drawings for prizes, including a $500 gift card for travel. See their Facebook page for pricing.

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Facebook: The Ultimate Wedding Fayre

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Walton Arts Center welcomes Bobby Bones & The Raging Idiots for a one-time performance in Baum Walker Hall on Saturday, January 9 at 8 pm. A native of Hot Springs, Bobby Bones is an American on-air radio entertainer and host of the nationally syndicated weekday country radio program, "The Bobby Bones Show."

Comprised of Bobby and Eddie from iHeartMedia’s "The Bobby Bones Show," The Raging Idiots is a comedy duo that plays shows all over the U.S. and has raised over a million dollars to benefit various charitable causes to date. waltonartscenter.org

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

AACLive! Cate Brothers Fort Smith Oh, the Cate Brothers! Arkansas treasures, these twin brothers draw crowds every time they perform. On January 14, they'll be playing at the Artist, Audience & Community Live! venue in downtown Fort Smith beginning at 7:30pm. Ernie and Earl have been spreading their special brand of blue-eyed soul for fifty years, performing with The Band, Bob Dylan, and countless others. Doors open at 6:30pm. See website for pricing. aaclive.com

calendar

THETOPTENTHETOPTEN

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Oaklawn Racing & Gaming Hot Springs

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade Fort Smith Celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by attending the MLK Day parade in downtown Fort Smith, which starts at North 7th and North A Streets, on January 16 at 10:00am. Dr. King received the Nobel Peace Prize, the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Congressional Gold Medal. To participate in the parade, or for more information, call the number below.

479.739.7904

Since 1904, horseracing fans have been showing up in Hot Springs to watch the races at Oaklawn Park. The tradition continues today, and the track is now home to the $1 million Arkansas Derby. This year's 2016 horseracing season kicks off on January 15, with a special 12:30pm first post. Gates open at 11am. You can cheer on the 3-yearold fillies as they start off their year in the $100,000 Dixie Belle Stakes.

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oaklawn.com

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Jeff Foxworthy and Larry the Cable Guy to bring the We’ve Been Thinking Tour Oklahoma City Need a laugh? You'll find plenty at this live show at the OKC Civic Center Music Hall - Thelma Gaylord Performing Arts Theatre. Comedians Jeff Foxworthy and Larry the Cable Guy are teaming up to bring you the We've Been Thinking Tour.

Foxworthy is the largest selling comedyrecording artist in history, and Larry the Cable Guy is one of the top comedians in the country, whose catchphrase is GitR-Done. There are two shows on January 22, one at 7pm and another at 9:30pm.

See website for pricing. okcciviccenter.com

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The River Valley Bridal Extravaganza Fort Smith You've decided to get married and now you're planning your dream wedding.

Where to start? At the River Valley Bridal Extravaganza on January 17 at Kay Rodgers Park in Fort Smith, you can meet caterers, DJs, cake designers, wedding planners, decorators, and more. See website for pricing. unforgettablesnwa.com

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Masters Trout Championship Branson, MO

The Masters Trout Championship is a yearly public catch-and-release tournament hosted by Lilleys' Landing Resort and Marina on Lake Taneycomo, in Branson, Missouri. This cold water lake offers both rainbow and brown trout fishing.

See website for pricing. Cash prices and trophies will be awarded to the top four teams, and the team with the heaviest trout. lilleyslanding.com

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poetry

Happy New Year LINES Debbie Stuckey

It is midnight in my small city. Outside I can hear the boom….boom… boom….boom.boom. boom.boomdadadaboom as the fireworks go off in the park nearby. And I know that across my small city people are kissing and cheering and maybe singing the words they know to “Auld Lang Syne”. And most of them are smiling.

There is something in us that loves new starts.

New hopes.

And God generously gives them.

Every January we get a new year.

Every March, a new spring.

Every Sunday, a new week.

Every sunrise we get a new day.

Every hour there is the possibility, The open door for repentance And return.

For restoration And celebration!

What a God! Oh, to be so loved.

To be so known.

Happy New Year!

Happy New Day!

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UPCLOSE&PERSONAL

Jack Brewster Frederick CSO - Canine Security Officer

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

UPCLOSE&PERSONAL

WORDS TO LIVE BY: "Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole.” ―Roger Caras Do South® Magazine Fort Smith dosouthmagazine.com 479.782.1500

A - Age: 2 B - Biggest Fear: The doorbell! Can't they make one that goes "woof"?

C - Current Time: Time to get back to work!

D - Drink you last had: Toilet bowl. Not my finest moment.

ABOUT JACK BREWSTER The best days of the week are when I get to go to work at the Do South® Magazine offices with my mom and dad, Catherine and Scott Frederick. I like all the stories in the magazine, but if I'm being honest, my favorite is the pet adoption page. Every month, we feature photos of guys that aren't as lucky as me. And every month, we get pets adopted. When that happens I feel better than that time I rolled in the mud at the dog park and then jumped in the pond! When I'm not working at the office (I warn them when company shows up. AND SQUIRRELS!), I'm in the test kitchen, where my job is to clean up any food that falls on the floor. I don't think they could run Do South® without me!

3 THINGS JACK BREWSTER CAN'T LIVE WITHOUT: Dog Treats

F - Favorite Song: "Hound Dog" by Elvis. (They really do cry all the time!)

G - Gambler, yes or no: Yesyesyes!

H - Hogs, strangest place you've called them: In the Tahoe on the way to the groomer.

I - In love with: Potato chips!

J - Jealous of: My sister Yoko!

K - Kayak or canoe: Are those treats?

L - Last time you cried: When we ran out of treats!

M - Morning routine: Breakfast. Chase Yoko. Chase my cat, Frankie. WORK! N - Number of Siblings: You mean the furry ones?

O - One Wish: To finally catch a SQUIRREL! P - Person you last called: Mom! Q - Question you're always asked: Who's a good boy? (Times infinity!)

R - Reason to get up in the morning: (See morning routine!)

S - Song on your playlist: "Ol Red" by Blake Shelton. (Makes me howl every time!)

T - Time you woke up: When Dad got out of bed.

U - Unplug. How do you relax? Belly rubs and momma hugs!

V - Vacation Destination: Anne's Beach, Florida. Dog-friendly & free poop bags!

Toes Chew Toys

E - Easiest Person To Talk to: My mom. She really gets me!

W - Worst Habit: I'm told I lick people's toes too much.

X - X-Rays you've had: Is that like getting neutered? Not falling for that again!

Y - Your favorite food: Whatever my family is eating.

Z - Zen (your moment of): When I get an extra belly rub! Score!

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pets

Unconditional Love & Affection Adopt a shelter dog

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F

M

F

Bogie

P.D.

M

Lacey

F

Spirit

Mike

Teka

Charleston Dog Shelter Donations are always needed and greatly appreciated.

Charleston Dog Shelter | Charleston, AR 72933 | 479.965.3591 | Find us on Petfinder™ |

Each month, Do SouthÂŽ donates this page to local and regional non-profit animal shelters. If you work with a shelter and would like to reserve this space, please email editors@dosouthmagazine.com.

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

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entertainment

My Fat Dad

A Memoir of Food, Love, and Family, with Recipes

By Dawn Lerman | Berkley Books, New York | 318 pages | $16 review Marla Cantrell

When My Fat Dad begins, author Dawn

her cooking fades. Each week she sends Dawn

Lerman sets the stage this way: "As far back

twenty dollars and family recipes so they can stay

as I can remember, there was an invisible wall

connected through food.

that separated me from my dad, a distance that I could never completely penetrate. His closest

At home, her father's escalating weight causes

relationship was with the bathroom scale—his

his boss to suggest a trip to a "Fat Farm," where

first stop every morning and his last stop every

he stays for months, eating tiny portions of white

evening. It controlled his moods, our days,

rice and lean meat and fruit. This place had the

what we were going to eat, and basically ruled

reputation for being a second home to celebrities

our family life."

Dom DeLuise, Shelly Winters, Elizabeth Taylor, and allegedly, even Elvis. The weight falls off, 175

Dawn's father, who eventually topped the

pounds of it, but once he returns to his normal

scales at 450 pounds, was a star in the

life, his struggle resumes.

advertising business, responsible for ad slogans At times, the book reads like the tale of a poor little

such as Fly the Friendly Skies of United™, Leggo My Eggo , and Coke is It. Dawn's mother was an aspiring actress,

rich girl. She makes friends with a cook named Olga in the school cafeteria.

thin and uninterested in food. Often, her meal of choice was a can

She befriends a homeless man who tells her he can see her loneliness.

of tuna eaten over the kitchen sink, the phone tucked between

She's left alone in the family's apartment for long stretches. She runs the

her ear and shoulder, talking to one of her friends.

streets of New York, under-aged and unchecked, ending up at Studio-54

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®

where she sees Andy Warhol, Liza Minnelli, and Mariel Hemingway.

Dawn's parents married young, fought terrifically, and sent Dawn to her grandmother Beauty's on weekends, a move that played heavily in

This is not a bitter story, however. Dawn's mother, creative and

her young life. There, the two cooked traditional Jewish foods Beauty

driven, taught her a great deal. Her father, creative and charismatic,

loved. And after they cooked, they sat and ate and talked about the

could make the world seem like a magical place. They became

majesty of a home-cooked meal, made with love and served with care.

parents when they were young, she says. They were from the "me" generation. They loved her then, and they love her now.

At the end of each chapter, Dawn shares the recipes of her growing up years in the 1970s. It is a unique way to tell this story. Here is what

If that isn't enough to draw you in, the recipes certainly will. A few

happened, she says, and this is what we ate. For a while you think

standouts are Creamy Cashew Butternut Soup, Beauty's Baby Shell

things are going to be just fine. She deals with a lot at home, but

Kugel with Golden Raisins, and Beauty's Savory Meatloaf Cupcakes

on the weekends she blooms around Beauty. Dawn is exceptionally

with Mashed Potato Frosting.

bright, intuitive, and her tales of family life are often funny.

My Fat Dad will leave you hungry. It will make you consider the A third of the way through this memoir, the Bohemian family moves

power of food in any relationship. And it will take you back to the

from Chicago to New York City, and the stability of Beauty and

Mad Men era, for a look at a family you may never forget.

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entertainment

THE GREAT ESCAPE words Marla Cantrell images Catherine Frederick

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entertainment

There's a mystery begging to be solved in downtown Fort Smith,

you'll find yet another clue, which will lead to another piece of

Arkansas. Everything you need to unravel this puzzle rests inside

the puzzle. In addition to the traditional locks, there are others

a redbrick building on North 10th Street, in one of the oldest

that require a combination to open. How do you know what the

parts of the city. There, you'll be challenged to find the clues that

combinations are? Well, you don't. Those are revealed by solving

could uncover who murdered Sophia Blake, a wealthy young

even more puzzles. Figure out all the puzzles and you'll find a

woman who lived in Avington Manor in the early 1900s.

device that stops the timer.

This tragedy, thankfully, is fictional. But the quest to unravel

It is a lot like being inside a life-size version of a video game.

"who done it" is real. And if you're curious and clever, then

And if you're going to find out "who done it," you have to work

you're the perfect candidate for a trip to ClueMasters, the city's

together. Early on, you'll figure out which person on your team

first Escape Room venue.

is the word-master. They'll be decoding those crossword-esque puzzles like a king. The logical thinker will keep you from the

If you're not familiar with Escape Rooms, they work something

helter-skelter antics of the creative. And the creative one will rule

like this. You enter a room with a few of your friends or family.

the clues that require leaps of imagination.

You're told a story, and then given a mission. In ClueMasters' Murder in the Manor room, for example, you're trying to find

But back to that clock, with its seconds disappearing as regularly

out who killed Sophia. You go inside, the door snaps shut behind

as a heartbeat. That is, as regularly as the heartbeat of someone

you, and a short video begins to play. You learn a bit about the

whose adrenaline isn't spiking. Because when you're in the

unsolved crime, the rules of the game and how the room is set

middle of this adventure, your heart is racing. You want to win.

up, and then you're asked to solve this mystery in one short hour.

You really, really want to win.

It sounds deceptively simple, but that's only if you haven't done

Before the hour's up, you'll be addled and baffled and confused.

it. Murder in the Manor is one of three themed Escape Rooms

That's OK. If you get stuck, you can ask for a clue. Even the team

at ClueMasters. It's a little over 100 square feet, dimly lit, and

I was on had to ask, although just once, and we didn’t quite

decorated to match the time period. Once the introductory video

finish in an hour, but close enough. The fastest time on record

stops, the screen shows a timer with looming numbers, counting

when we played was closer to forty-five minutes. When we finally

down from sixty minutes to zero.

solved the mystery, we looked around. The room, perfect when we entered it, was in disarray. Drawers opened, clues scattered,

That's it. There's no other direction. And so you search, looking

keys dangling from open locks.

under tables, lifting items, even running your fingers along the frame of a large portrait on one of the walls.

In less than a minute, you'll likely find the first clue. This is when you and your friends could get a bit cocky. Don't. It only gets more difficult from that point on. There are word puzzles and cryptic messages left on now-yellowed letters written

by Sophia, old photographs with messages penned on the back, and diagrams you believe might hold special meaning, although you're not altogether sure. You'll find actual, physical keys, and you'll have to discover which locks (there

Devin Kuhl

are several) they fit. Once you open the locks,

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entertainment

It felt as if we'd conquered something monumental.

it to America a few years later, mostly in big cities with a lot of tourist traffic, and some of those are extremely difficult. "There

This is the part where I could tell you what became of Sophia,

are some rooms in L.A. and Toronto that have like a fifteen

the heiress who was born with money but not longevity. But I

percent success rate. I don't think that makes people feel

wouldn't do that. You'll want to find out for yourself. And that's

good about themselves. We want people to feel good about

what Devin Kuhl, one of the four partners in ClueMasters, is

accomplishing something."

banking on.

Right now, there are three Escape Rooms at ClueMasters, each Devin thinks that players will tell their friends, who will come

with a different theme, including one called Clue Pig Sooie,

in to play, and have so much fun they'll pass the word along.

which is a search for four tickets to a Razorback game. Those will

Devin sometimes hears the players from his spot in the front

be changed after a while, to keep things fresh.

lobby. There's a lot of laughter, and strategizing, and clues being read out loud. While this in itself is exciting, it's not

Devin thinks people from all walks of life will have a great time

what he likes best. "I was drawn to the business, because how

solving these puzzles. He also believes corporations will be using

often do you put down your phones for an entire hour, talk,

the Escape Rooms as a fun way to teach teams how to work

work together, and have fun?" Devin asks. "Even at a movie,

together, and to see each employee's strengths.

you're not talking to each other. And I think that aspect, for groups and families and even as team-building exercises for

Exploring an Escape Room for an hour costs eighty-five dollars

companies, is going to be good for the community."

for a group. The recommended number of players is four, and you have to be at least fifteen years old to play without an adult.

The community aspect is important to the owners of

It's smart to book your adventure ahead of time, to make sure

ClueMasters. They all grew up in the area—Devin is from

you don't miss out.

the tiny town of Hackett. And each of them (Devin, Chad Summerhill, Shane Jennings, and Jeremy May) knows a good

ClueMasters did a lot of testing before opening a few

deal about marketing.

weeks ago. They found a few things that needed adjusting, but overall they'd gotten everything just right. Devin smiles

In August of 2015, they visited an Escape Room, had a great

as he talks about the process. It was like a puzzle, he says,

time, and came back with the notion that they could create

but that didn't worry him at all. He happens to be great at

one that was even better. They got to work, researching, and

solving them.

looking for furniture that could be adapted to have hidden compartments. One of their wives even wrote the story for Murder in the Manor. One of their biggest challenges was finding the right location.

They knew that they wanted to be in the downtown Fort Smith area, which will one day be home to the planned U.S. Marshals Museum. They've seen traffic rise recently due to the Unexpected Project, which brought in world-renowned artists to paint eleven murals on buildings in the downtown area, during a weeklong festival in September of last year. They believe downtown is going to boom, and they want to be part

Brunwick Place 101 N 10th, Suite A Fort Smith

of that revitalization.

Devin says the first Escape Rooms can be traced to Japan in 2006

479.274.0700 Facebook/ClueMasters

or 2007. They grew in popularity, moving to the U.K., and made DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

Book online: cluemasters.com Thursdays: 4pm - 9pm Fridays: 4pm - 10pm Saturdays: 3pm - 11pm

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diy

d ate s to rem em ber | cal endar book words and imageS Janna Wilson

b

etween the growing list of birthdays, occasions and

binding style and numbered list pages can be used for

events I have to remember and my lapsing memory

numerous projects, including a daily gratitude journal or

these days, I decided to create a book to keep all of

even an expense tracker. Just use the list to jot down expenses

those significant dates close at hand. I also wanted each

and stow the receipts in the pockets. The printable files make

page to be a pocket to keep greetings, notecards and even

it a snap to put together. You could whip this project out

gift cards stowed until it’s time to drop them in the mail

in one crafty afternoon. Just visit dosouthmagazine.com to

or hand them off. It’s fun adding a little flair to customize

download the files and spend an hour or two crafting in the

this book of celebrations and milestones. This easy book-

name of organization this new year!

DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

diy

SUPPLIES NEEDED: • Chipboard or book board (2 pieces: 7” x 11”) • Patterned papers (2 for the covers and 1 for the inside cover) • 3 loose leaf rings (1-2” diameter) • 13 sheets white cardstock (8 ½” x 11”) • 12 sheets black (or coordinating color) cardstock (8 ½” x 11”) • 2” circle or oval punch • Hole punch (¼”) • Corner punch • Adhesives (glue sticks and/or tape runner) • Embellishments (stickers, washi, ribbon, etc.)

• 6 large eyelets (optional) • Sewing machine and thread (optional)

PRINT & PREP PAGES

• Print 12 of the numbered lists onto white cardstock. Trim along gray cutting lines.

The finished size should be 5 ½ ” x 10 ¾”.

NOTE: If you want to create your own design, just create a numbered list according to how many days are in each month and draw a line to the right of that. A hand-drawn list or labels will work just fine for this project.

• Print one of the 2016 At a Glance calendar pages on white cardstock. The finished size should be 5 ½” x 10 ¾”.

• Cut 12 sheets of black cardstock to 6 ½“ x 10 ¾”.

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diy

POCKET PAGES Create a half-circle or oval notch in the vertical center of the right edge of each list/monthly page by punching with a circle or oval punch.

Run a fine line of glue around the top, left, and bottom edges (NOT the notched edge side) on the back of the list pages and adhere each to one of the 12 pieces of cut black cardstock.

TIP: You can reinforce these pockets by machine stitching around the three sides of the page if desired.

Assemble pages and set aside.

BOOK COVERS

BINDING THE BOOK

Trim two pieces of patterned paper to 10” x 12” and glue the chipboard piece centered on the BACK side of the paper.

Use the handy printable guide for punching holes to bind the book, or, mark as follows: (for center hole) measure to the vertical center point (5 ½” from top/ bottom) on the LEFT edge of the cover; mark center hole ¼” from edge.

Create great-looking finished corners by following the illustrations in photos at right. Clip the paper at an angle, just to the corners of the chipboard.

Repeat these steps for all the corners.

Top and bottom holes are 1 ½” from top and bottom edges and ¼” from LEFT edge of cover.

Next, mark the holes on each page that will go in the book. Punch the holes with a ¼” hole punch and assemble the pages together with the covers.

Apply glue to the flaps created by cutting the corner notches. Fold flaps to backside of covers.

Choose papers to add to the inside of the covers. Trim these to 6” x 10 ½” and glue to the inside of each cover.

Janna Wilson is a graphic designer, lettering artist and long-time crafter. Visit Janna’s blog at jannawilson.com for more crafty projects and creative ideas.

TIP: If you are using book board or thick chipboard, I recommend the Crop-a-Dile for punching through the thickness of chipboard with ease.

Be sure to get creative with patterned paper, stickers and embellishments to add some fun and flair to this project. I’ve lined paper strips to the inside edge of my list pages and added patterns and quotes to the back sides as well.

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Live. Love. Local. words and imageS Catherine Frederick

Ozark Beer Company Cream Stout, Six Point Imperial Red Global Warmer, Ciroc Apple Vodka, Jose Cuervo Strawberry Lime Margaritas, Knob Creek Smoked Maple Whiskey SODIE’S WINE & SPIRITS 479.783.8013

Hearts on Fire Teardrop Earrings, 1.00ct, 18kt. White Gold JOHN MAYS JEWELERS 479.452.2140

Bvlgari Sunglasses DR. STEVEN B. STILES OPTOMETRY 479.452.2020

Diaper Shirts & Romper, Wall Décor, Ella Jackson™ Baby Ganz® Stuffed Elephants JENNIFER’S GIFT SHOP AT SPARKS HEALTH 479.441.4221

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Love the River Valley as much as we do? Visit our local shops and discover unique gift items for those you love and must-have items just for you. Here are a few of the products we’re in love with this month!

Treasured Memories Picture Frame, License Plate Plaque, Key Chain SUNSHINE SHOP AT MERCY FORT SMITH 479.314.6079

Lolita® Hand Painted Pilsner Glass, Victory Brewing Company Golden Monkey Belgium, Ménage à Trois Vodka, Fever Tree Ginger Beer, True® Moscow Mule Copper Cocktail Mug IN GOOD SPIRITS 479.434.6604

The Essential Oils Handbook, Bamboo Ultrasonic Oil Diffuser, Get Real Nutrition Fermented Super Juice Fit Dietary Supplement, Now® Essential Oils, Lily’s™ Dark Chocolate with Almond & Coconut OLDE FASHIONED FOODS 479.649.8200/ 479.782.6183

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AFTER THE AZORES:

The Dana Idlet Story words Marla Cantrell images Anna Hutchison (courtesy Dana Idlet)

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The story of singer-songwriter Dana Idlet starts in Prairie Grove, Arkansas, a picturesque town of 4,800 that was incorporated in 1888. A recent post on the town's Facebook page lamented the cancelation of the Junior Civic League's Beans and Cornbread Dinner due to a deluge of rain that was forcing most everybody inside. The latest announcement on the town's website congratulated the school's high school football team for beating Star City, a victory that moved them into the 4A State Semi-finals.

It was here, in this tight-knit community, where Dana went to school. The Idlets lived twenty minutes south of town, moving there after they left Houston. When she mentions that her childhood home-place included one hundred acres, it's as if a bell goes off. Instantly, the

Dana Louise and the Glorious Birds

recollection of Winnie-the-Pooh's hundred-acre wood emerges, with all its nostalgia and honey and timeless wisdom.

It's easy to think that singing and songwriting and playing instruments felt as natural to her as walking and talking to the rest of us. But that

Not a bad comparison. Her own growing up was a bit magical.

was not the case. "Singing in front of people was always terrifying.

She and her younger brother, Steven, had the run of the

I'd sing in the car or shower, but even my parents didn't hear that."

place. What she remembers from that time is that they seldom watched TV. They played outdoors, discovering the natural

Growing up, Dana had other interests. She played basketball,

world as easily as their city counterparts were fine-tuning their

attending Tulsa University on scholarship. At 6'2" and with a good

video-gaming skills. When school was in session, the bus picked

deal of talent, she was an excellent center. During that time, she

them up, the ride long as they bumped along the country roads

signed up for an art class. "I considered it a blow-off hour," she says.

that passed farmhouses and open fields and cows and horses

But the class struck a chord. Dana loved art, and she was good at it.

and riots of wildflowers.

When school ended, she painted, showing her work at local venues The constant in the Idlet household was music. Their father, Ezra,

like the Fayetteville Underground. (Her brother Steven attended TU as

along with Keith Grimwood, play together in Trout Fishing in

well, and went on to play basketball for overseas teams in Switzerland,

America, the widely popular eclectic folk/rock band best known

Hungary, Lithuania, and Canada.)

for its family and children's songs (and their four Grammy速 nominations). They've been together for more than thirty years. If

In 2011, during an art residency to the Azores, a group of nine islands

you've grown up in Arkansas, the songs of your childhood likely

800 miles off the coast of Portugal, Dana's life turned again. She stayed

include ones from this iconic duo.

seven months, in a village of 200 people, with only a few cars around.

She swam each day in the dazzling ocean, ate fresh fish, and vegetables

Holidays, especially, were filled with music. After Thanksgiving,

newly plucked from the garden. Dana's only goal was to come back

they'd invite all their musician friends for a big "hootenanny,"

with new work for a future art show. But then she discovered a CD

a tradition that continues today. And Dana did take piano for

by folk/blues singer Alela Diane, and fell in love. "There was no piano

eight years. "I never really got the hang of it," she says. "My

around but my friend let me borrow a guitar and I sat with Alela

piano teacher would play a song to me and I'd memorize it. I'd

Diane's music and learned it string by string. After I felt like I knew it

kind of fake it instead of spending that time practicing during

well enough, I shared it with two friends I'd made there. They loved it

the week. I just played by ear."

and kept asking me to play and sing. It was terrifying, but I did it, and by the time I left I had about four hours of music I'd learned.

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"I became part of this community. I played guitar while they were cooking dinner. A shop owner from the village ended up giving me her guitar from twenty years ago. It stayed strapped to me and I became totally obsessed. It was the perfect spot and the perfect time. No one knew me there. No one knew my dad was this really great musician. I think sometimes you have to get away to be able to find things out about yourself."

One of the things she discovered was that she was still afraid to perform on stage in front of people she did not know. But this time that didn't stop her. Once she came back to Northwest Arkansas, she booked three shows in a row. "I thought if I could make it through that weekend, then I could make it work. That first show, I think I cried all the way through because I was so scared."

At her second show, a friend and fellow musician, Jackson Jennings,

"There's this back and forth that happens when the audience loves something you're singing and playing, and it elevates the energy in the room.

I think everyone can feel that."

stepped in to help. The two hit it off so well they started performing as Air Loom, a collaboration that lasted more than a year.

Now, when she talks about performing, fear doesn't come into play.

"There's this back and forth that happens when the audience loves

When she started a solo album, she recorded it at her childhood

something you're singing and playing, and it elevates the energy in

home, and that's when things really got going. "My dad

the room. I think everyone can feel that. You can feel people being

asked Keith Grimwood [Trout Fishing in America] to play bass.

touched by your music. And that's whether it's a song I've written or

I needed percussion and guitar, so my dad did that." Before

a song a friend has written; I get so much from that. It's kind of the

the brainstorming ended, Adam Collins, who plays banjo and

same feeling I got when I played basketball and I was on the court and

vibraphone, signed on and the group became known as Dana

our team made a handful of good plays together and the crowd was

Louise and the Glorious Birds. Their sound is described as "roots-

cheering. Your whole body is covered in goose-bumps and you feel like

rooted flung-into-the-future folk." But I can tell you this: Dana's

you could jump all the way out of the gym. Music can be like that."

voice is smooth, her lyrics catchy and heartfelt, and at times she'll remind you of indie singers like Ingrid Michaelson. When asked

Looking at it now, she can see her creative progression that

to describe her sound, she comes up with only one word: "real."

backtracks all the way to Prairie Grove. It was there that she discovered her athletic ability. Playing basketball led her to art,

What amazes Dana is how this album, released in May 2015,

that led her to the Azores, that led her to music, that brought her

came together. "The band kind of formed naturally through all this

right back home. She sees it as a perfect circle, as round as any

recording. My dad is thrilled, but he knows he can't pounce on me

basketball, and as beautiful as her time on stage, the music doing

with excitement. I think we've finally figured out my limit. If I'm curious

its magic, and everyone—the band and the audience—becoming

about some aspect of music, he wants to give me all the information

part of something new and bright and wonderful.

he has. He wants to download his brain into my brain." Dana laughs as she says this, and in this one statement is the all the joy her dad must feel to have his daughter follow in his musical footsteps.

"My dad is awesome. My mom would do anything for me," Dana says. "My aunts and uncle and brother and cousin. My friends. This band. The support I have in my life is overwhelming."

To find out more about Dana, visit danalouisemusic.com.

Her album, Dana Louise and the Glorious Birds, is available there and at other locations, including Amazon.com.

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january's words and image Jessica Sowards

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At first glance, there is very little wonderment on a farm in January.

Come in March and you will fall madly in love with the place. Even the air is pregnant in March. The garden will be freshly tilled, ready to receive hundreds of seeds and transplants. Raised garden beds will turn out bowls of sweet peas, rhubarb, and cool weather greens. The air will smell of honeysuckle and spring rain. There will be chicks by the dozens—peeping little fluffs. Oh, and the goats! Have you ever seen a baby goat play? Google it. Thank me later.

Come in July and you will not want to leave. The goat milk will flow like it’s on tap, turning into cheese and yogurt in the cool, tiled kitchen. The spring chicks will hit maturity and begin to lay. The egg baskets will come in with so much bounty, your arms will tire from carrying them. We will live off watermelon and Caprese salads, every bit of it from our little piece of the earth. July on a farm is a glorious time.

October rivals it, though. Come in October and the soup pot will be bubbling with root vegetables and farm-raised chicken. The boys will do homeschool in the morning and climb trees in the afternoon. We will have the spoils of our first honey harvest. Bushels of apples and pears from friends’ trees will pour into the kitchen. Subsequently, the pantry shelves will welcome full mason jars, lined in rows, stacked to capacity.

It is easy to love the fruitful months. Even a person with no desire for homesteading could come and feel wonder when there are bouncing baby goats and pounds and pounds of provision hanging on the vine. But in January, there is none of that. The pantry shelves are dwindling. The milk has gone dry. The hens, in protest of the short daylight hours, rarely lay. Even the greenhouse greens have stopped their giving. The jug that usually holds wildflowers from the side of the road has been stored in the top of the pantry. There are no flowers for now.

The truth is, there is a part of me that starts wishing for spring as soon as the artificial Christmas tree disappears up the attic stairs. That wandering side of my heart shirks the waiting of the cold months and gets overwhelmed at the colorless, muddiness that is a farm in winter. That part of me has a hard time getting out of bed on the twenty-degree mornings and dreads buying grocery store produce. It’s not the best part of me, though. It’s the impatient part. It’s the part that certainly cannot take credit for the lovely things in my life.

Then there is the other side of me, the part that writes pretty words and finds beauty in January. On this side of my heart dwells the optimist.

To be honest, she’s hard to wake up sometimes. But when I let her determine my mindsets and rule my thinking, even January becomes a terribly romantic time to be a homesteader.

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Most mornings, before the sun is even thinking of shining on

and things like January, stopping to answer questions about the

Arkansas, my husband Jeremiah turns off his alarm and dresses in

capital of Australia and how to solve an equation for Y.

the camouflage clothes that are laid out next to the bed. He kisses my head, even though I don’t usually stir. He retrieves his bow from the

Sounds of worship music and power tools whir out of the garage

closet and heads to the woods, but stops before he reaches the door

shop where Jeremiah, by the warmth of an oil heater, builds small

and lights the stack of logs in the fireplace so we might wake to the

chicken coops we will sell with spring chicks in a few months.

warmth of it. I think most days he lets the deer walk. Between him

Noah has stripped off the multiple layers of Carhartt® and is

and the boys, the freezer is already full of deer burgers and sausage,

back in sweatpants, focused on his homeschool assignments on

all the venison we could need for the year. But he has left one of

the computer. Mikela, Jeremiah’s twenty-one-year-old sister, is

his deer tags unfilled. Either he’s waiting for “The Big One” or just

upstairs with the youngest boys, playing games about numbers

unwilling to finalize the season and give up that morning time with

and colors. She works on baking goods to put in our food baskets,

God in the deer stand. Either way, it is part of January.

as our ministry of gifting food boxes to church leadership and those in need is limited in the less productive months.

"January may not look like much, but it is a season of rest. It’s a season of growth for each of us."

No, at first glance, this farm isn’t much to behold during January.

But when you look a little harder, past the molting chickens and the dormant gardens, you'll see incredible beauty in this family of mine. We are all a little stir-crazy, we are all a little tired of grocery store produce and going out three times a day to thaw the chicken waterers, but we are well aware of what is coming.

The daylight is the alarm for Toby and Ezra, ages two and three. As soon

In the approaching seasons, I’ll be traveling more, speaking at

as it floods in their window, their eyes pop open. Within a few minutes of

conferences for ministry, staying in hotels with no chickens or small boys

daybreak they will be bouncing on my bed with their impossible energy,

to bounce on the bed at daybreak. When at home, I’ll jump between

shouting, “It’s wake-up time!” So I rouse, and Ben, the baby, does too.

homeschool and writing and the endless list of work spring will bring. As

I dress us all in sweatshirts over our thermal pajamas. I put slippers over

soon as the weather allows, Noah and Jeremiah will set their minds to

socked feet. Our old house is cold, even when the heat is on.

building and planting. Jackson and Asher’s chores will grow with the rest of ours in spring. And Toby, almost four, will join in.

As I turn on the burner underneath the cast iron skillet and the kettle, I hear Noah, age sixteen, close the back door. In a few moments I’ll

So, as the optimist, I will say this: January may not look like much,

hear the roosters crow as he opens the coop doors and the chicken

but it is a season of rest. It’s a season of growth for each of us.

flock spills out onto the freezing yard. He will fill their waterers with

And while I may get a little over-excited at every seed catalog and

scalding water that will be frozen by noon, top off feeders and throw

hatchery order form that comes through the mail, and while my

corn. He’ll feed the goats and check the rabbits.

composition book of farm plans is chock full of sketches and lists and dreams for spring, I’m OK with January.

Meanwhile, I fry eggs, make hot tea with honey and cream, and coerce Jackson and Asher, ages eight and ten, out of bed with

I’m OK to stay here in front of the fireplace for the time God has

promises of bacon. By the time Noah and Jeremiah are back from

me here. Soon there will be bounty, but as for now, I will enjoy this

their morning routines, we are around the table with breakfast

abundant gift of family I am blessed with. At first glance, I may not

and Bibles. Thus start the days of January.

feel awe at January, but when I wake up the optimist, I realize this may be one of the most beautiful months of all.

Homeschool happens in front of the fireplace. Jackson speeds through math while Asher puts it off until last and prefers his language arts assignments. I stoke the fire anytime it threatens to weaken and tap away on my MacBook™ about God and chickens

Follow Jessica on her blog @ thehodgepodgedarling.blogspot.com

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Capturing the Beauty of an

Ordinary Day A

words Jessica Meinardus and Marla Cantrell images courtesy Jessica Meinardus Photography

A staged photo. We all have them. We're all on the beach wearing white. We're sitting in a field, our hair perfect, our kids smiling. And we wouldn't trade these photos for the world. But there are other times that define our families: movie night at home in our pajamas, or dinners around the dining table, or an impromptu game of Duck, Duck, Goose.

These everyday moments are what photographer Jessica Meinardus was thinking about when she came up with a project called An Everyday Love. Her idea was to visit a family for a day and capture what's best about their life.

She thought about her own life in Van Buren, Arkansas. On an ordinary day, she might be chasing her toddler who's bright with laughter, listening to her kids' jokes, or watching the comic antics of the family dog.

Her first photo shoot for An Everyday Love was on a gorgeous Sunday at the farm of Joey and Stacy Marrone, in Mulberry. They have four kids, and they have a great time working and playing together. Devoting an entire day results in some amazing shots. "When you spend time in the background you see real personality come out," Jessica says. "I saw the kids being goofy, playing together, helping one another, and a little bit of sibling rivalry. I watched as Joey led the family in the farm tasks and saw the pride he takes in his work and family. I enjoyed seeing Stacy's kindness and patience as she helped guide and teach her kids something new."

These are just a few of the photos from Jessica's day on the farm. They are lovely, but more than that, they document what it means to be part of the Marrone family, what they care deeply about, and the joy they find just by being together.

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The Marrone Family

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To see more of Jessica's photos from the Marrone shoot, visit dosouthmagazine.com.

For more on An Everyday Love, visit meinardusphotography.com.

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Ozzie Hurt

Playing Ball with Lions words Don Lowe images courtesy UAFS Sports Information

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After having gone through his inaugural season at the helm, University of Arkansas Fort Smith Lions baseball head coach Todd Holland is thrilled with how much more familiar he now is with the program. And he’s especially excited about his returners, guys like Josh Vanderpool (Vandy), Kasey Cooper and Ozzie Hurt, knowing how they played last year and that they now

Even with so little preparation time prior to their regular-season opener, Holland seems to be encouraged by his three main groups— the outfielders, infielders and pitchers.

have another year under their belts.

Head Coach Todd Holland Holland says, “I learned a lot about the Heartland Conference, what kind of conference it is, and what the teams are like, so I’m more prepared for what to expect

we play our first game.” Even with so little preparation time prior

week in and week out.”

to their regular-season opener, Holland seems to be encouraged by his three main groups—the outfielders, infielders and pitchers.

A tough lesson a year ago was the exhausting toll that so many lengthy road trips took on UAFS. So, Holland is ecstatic that

“Our outfield will be very good. Vandy has a little bit of a bummed

several of those long and winding journeys aren’t happening

elbow right now, so we are going to have to find a place for him.

this season. “We don’t have to go to Laredo, the Panhandle or

Alec Pender, who was a backup last year, had a really good fall.

Austin,” Holland says. “We don’t have to go to San Antonio

Our centerfielder, Trevor Crone, is a kid from Conners State who

twice and we don’t have to go to Odessa. So, our travel is going

has been a huge bonus for us. If Cooper can tie it together for a

to be a lot easier.”

year, he could be the best player in Division II baseball.”

It's also going to be a lot easier for Holland to identify his team’s

As for the infield, Holland says, “Ozzie’s probably the best

strengths after being with this group for a full year. “I think we are

defensive player in Arkansas at shortstop. We have a new third

going to be fairly well-balanced. We have some really good arms

baseman. We lost Ryan Justus, who was really good defensively.

this year and we’ll score runs. We may not be as good offensively,

Nick Yoning is getting better. He is transitioning from shortstop

but I think our pitching will do a better job of holding teams a little

to third base. He made an error this fall and I kind of hammered

bit closer. Last year, we had a lot of games where we scored eight

him and said, ‘You don’t do that here.’

to nine runs and we would lose by one or two runs.”

“We’ll probably have to move Vandy to first base just to keep Regardless of the positives, Holland’s biggest concern at the

him in the lineup. If Vandy can handle the transition to first base

outset of this season is that they don’t start the spring semester

and Yoning picks things up, we’ll be just as good defensively as

until January 19. “So we’ll have, maybe, a week of practices before

we were last year.”

Ozzie Hurt

Hasten Freeman

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Josh Vanderpool

Kasey Cooper

Southeastern Oklahoma, Evan Sanders, who was 92-93 mph.

Landon Bradley from Conners State was 92 mph this fall. We’ve got arms. It’s just a matter if they can tie it all together.”

Ultimately, Holland believes that if UAFS is going to piece everything together and enjoy a fair amount of success, they are going to have to pitch. Holland says, “We are going to score runs.

We may not score eight to ten runs like we did last year. We may score five to seven, which most Division II teams would take. It’s going to be whether or not we can control our pitching and throw When it comes to pitching, Holland’s assessment is this: “We have four guys who are [throwing] 90 miles an hour, plus. We have two who throw 95 mph. We are deeper. We probably have five frontline guys who will be really good. The only question mark will be the ability to throw enough strikes. But, the third, fourth and fifth guys coming out are good enough that they throw strikes all the time. Our last year’s number one and two guys, besides Kellen

strikes. If we throw strikes, we’ll be tough to beat.”

Regardless of what may transpire over the next couple of months, at this point nothing beats having a year under his belt for Holland as he focuses on leading a UAFS squad that he knows so much more about. No doubt about it, that’s a refreshing start as this season gets underway.

Smith, would be about our number seven or eight guy on this staff, which is good for us.”

take the field, there are a number of individuals who will be

UAFS BASEBALL FAST FACTS

counted on to shine. In particular, Holland expects good things

Head Coach: Todd Holland

from “Josh Vanderpool, Ozzie defensively, Kasey Cooper will be

Assistant Coaches:

big and Crone will be huge for us in centerfield this year.”

Justin Wichert, Jon Ubbenga

While it will take an entire team effort every time Holland’s Lions

Record Last Year: 28-21 Holland continued, saying “Clayton Whelchel is a kid from

overall, 15-10 in Heartland

Huntsville who throws it 95 mph, Hasten Freeman had a really

Conference

good fall and topped out at 94 mph and we have a lefty from DOSOUTHMAGAZINE.COM

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THE MAGIC OF MAKING A MOVIE words Marcus Coker images courtesy Parker’s Anchor

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F

From now until January 16, a crew of actors, producers, and set

The filming of Parker’s Anchor marks the second time the

hands will gather from across the country to meet in Fayetteville,

Schwartzmans have made a movie in Arkansas, which is home

Arkansas, with the singular goal of filming a movie

to Ryan’s family. Their first film, Gordon Family Tree,

called Parker’s Anchor, the fictional story of a

was released in 2014 and was directed by Marc

woman whose search for a family to call her

Hampson of Anaheim, California, who is also

own leads her through disappointment,

directing Parker’s Anchor.

acceptance, and finally, celebration.

Another producer, as well as a

Parker’s Anchor is the story of

casting director for the film, is

Krystal Parker, a married woman

Elizabeth Barnes Keener, who’s

from Los Angeles, who plans to

from Fort Smith and now lives in

have a child with her husband.

Los Angeles. Her casting director

However, when she discovers

credits include the shows Studio 60

she's

husband

on the Sunset Strip and Revenge.

leaves her and Krystal moves to

infertile,

her

“I run into a lot of people who say

Fayetteville to pick up the pieces and

they’re making a movie, and the

begin again. Along the way, Krystal

percentage of people who actually do

makes new friends and adopts a child,

it is very small,” says Elizabeth, “so what

finding love, not where she’d planned, but

Ryan and Jennica have done and are doing

where it was waiting for her all along.

again is a big accomplishment. When they filmed Gordon Family Tree, Ryan was the lead actor,

“You find yourself in your twenties and thirties, and things don’t

and Jennica came in and stole a scene. Ryan said, ‘When we do

pan out like you thought,” says Jennica Schwartzman, who’s thirty,

the next movie, it’s Jennica’s turn to be in front of the camera, and

from Los Angeles, and the lead actress for Parker’s Anchor. “You’re

I’m going to be behind the scenes to support her.’ And they give

starting a new chapter, so what do you do? What does that look like

like that in every aspect of their lives, which is one of the reasons

when life changes and your identity changes along with it?”

they are so good to work with.”

Jennica, in addition to playing Krystal Parker, is a co-writer of

Elizabeth says, “Los Angeles is an industry town, so everything

the film along with her husband, Ryan. The couple is producing

is a transaction, a business. It’s great making a movie in

the movie through their company, Purpose Pictures. “We didn’t

Northwest Arkansas because people are interested in the art

start writing it until I was pregnant in 2013, but I’d always

and experience of it. All of our sponsors get something from it,

wanted to write about adoption, in part because our nephew is

but it’s not always a financial transaction.” To that end, dozens

adopted,” says Jennica.

of local businesses will be contributing to or shown in Parker’s Anchor, including Greenhouse Grille, Hawaiian Brian’s, Theo’s,

Several of the actors are seasoned performers, including Sarah

The Mustache, and Fayetteville High School. In most cases,

Colonna, who grew up in Farmington and graduated from the

business names and logos will stay the same, which will help

drama department at the University of Arkansas. She’s a New

create what Jennica calls “a realistic sense of place.”

York Times best-selling author and is often seen on Chelsea Lately.

Elizabeth's husband, Brandon Keener, will also have a role in Local actors and actresses will play a total of sixteen roles, whose

the film. Brandon, who grew up in Fort Smith, also graduated

character ages range from nine to early sixties. Jennica says, “When

from the drama department at U of A and was in He’s Just Not

we held a casting call in Fayetteville last September, we knew we

That Into You and Catch Me If You Can. Additionally, film music

would have a hard time deciding. We saw so much talent, and

will be provided in part by local musicians Shannon Wurst and

that was a positive problem we were happy to encounter.”

Trout Fishing in America.

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One of the words Jennica uses to describe both the movie and the

When Jennica talks about Parker’s Anchor, it’s clear she’s making

movie-making process is “magical.” As an example, she tells the

a big commitment. The licensing agreements for film distribution

story of Brian and Ashley Bailey, who own The Mustache (a quirky

last fifteen years, which means fifteen years of paperwork and

gift and clothing store) on the Square in Fayetteville and will be

tax forms. As producers of the film, Ryan and Jennica are self-

lending their home as a shooting location for the film. Jennica

financing the film with the exception of just over twenty-five

says, “They put online that they are opening a sister shop called

thousand dollars they raised online from over two hundred and

The Anchor [that will sell home goods]. Well, in our story, Krystal

fifty donors via Kickstarter, a website that allows people to donate

opens a shop called The Anchor. It couldn’t be more perfect. And

money to creative projects.

we’ve encountered help like that at every step.”

Jennica says, “Self-financing means debt, as much legal debt as we Elizabeth says, “Once you start telling people what you are doing,

can acquire. And it’s an uphill battle all the way. This is the hardest

people just come forward. So we all get to do something together.

thing I’ve ever done. We can’t buy a house. We can’t send our child

They’re happy. You’re happy.”

to private school. But I truly believe in the projects we are making, that they enrich the lives of others. That’s why we do it. I believe

It’s magical.

someone’s going to watch the film and Google adoption and go, ‘I didn’t even know I wanted you, but I’m so glad I found you.’”

For the Schwartzmans and Elizabeth, there’s a certain trust that comes along with the entire process, a knowing that things will

If you’ve ever been changed by a story—a movie, a book—you

work out the way they should. Jennica says, “It’s a theme in

understand. Stories have power, especially ones that are told

the movie too. There’s no such thing as a plan that didn’t work

from a generous heart like Jennica’s, whose goal is to give so that

out. When you get to the end, there’s no Plan B. This was the

someone else may receive. If that’s not magic, nothing is.

plan; it was destined. No matter what your family looks like, it’s supposed to be that way.

Nothing wrong happened.”

During the process, Jennica is keeping a digital “Filmmaker’s Bible,” a binder that includes copies of contracts, agreements, and to-do lists. The reason? Whenever she encounters someone wanting to learn about making a movie, she can send them a copy. She says, “Education is a big part of the process. The next group of filmmakers needs to be ten steps ahead of me. People say, ‘If you live in the penthouse, send the elevator down.’ But if I live in the penthouse, I need to build above me. And they should also send the elevator down.”

Ryan and Jennica Schwartzman

Once shooting is finished, Jennica is hoping for nine months of post-production and editing, resulting in a movie that’s an hour and a half long. After that, there will be a red-carpet premier somewhere between the summer of 2016

For more information, visit parkersanchor.com or find

and the winter of 2017.

Parker’s Anchor on Facebook.

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taste

Words and images Rachael McGrew

SPICY PIGSKIN CHEESEBALL I DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU, BUT MY FAVORITE PART ABOUT SUPER BOWL SUNDAY IS THE EATING. I’M ONLY IN IT FOR THE FOOD AND COULDN’T CARE LESS ABOUT WHO’S PLAYING. BUT I DO KNOW ONE THING; SHOW UP WITH THIS AND YOU CAN’T LOSE! THE GREAT THING ABOUT THIS RECIPE IS IT CAN BE A FOOTBALL-SHAPED CHEESEBALL OR A DIP. BACON-CHEDDAR-JALAPEÑO DIP FOR THE WIN!

INGREDIENTS

16 oz. cream cheese, softened 2 cups cheddar cheese • ¼ cup sour cream • 2 packages dry ranch mix (6 Tablespoons, if you have a container) • 2 Tablespoons pickled jalapeño slices + 2 Tablespoons juice from jar • 3 packages Oscar Meyer® Real Bacon Recipe Pieces • 1 package string cheese for laces • •

METHOD

Combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, sour cream, ranch mix, jalapeño slices, juice, and 1 package bacon in large bowl. On serving platter, form mixture into oval.

Gently flatten to create football shape. Cover top and sides with 2 packages of bacon. Quarter string cheese from top to bottom for laces. Place one strip horizontally for the long lace. Cut remaining strips in half, lay pieces vertically across long lace. Cover and chill for 1 hour. Serve with your favorite crackers.

For dip: Omit two packages of bacon pieces and string cheese. Increase sour cream to 1 ½ cups. Combine all ingredients, cover and chill for 1 hour. Serve with crackers or vegetables.

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white

chicken chili recipe, Words and images Catherine Frederick

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Wait! Now, don’t just flip this page because the ingredient list seems long. Not only is this recipe worth it (it’s my family’s all-time favorite), but also, there’s really just not that much to it. This hearty and delicious soup is perfect for those cold winter nights when all you want to do is snuggle up by the fire (with a full belly) and lounge in your PJs. Let’s get started!

Ingredients 1 yellow onion, chopped 1 stick unsalted butter ¼ cup all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons chili powder 2 teaspoons ground cumin 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 rotisserie chicken, breast meat deboned and cut into small chunks 1 (15 oz.) can Great Northern beans, rinsed and drained 1 (15 oz.) can Navy beans, rinsed and drained 1 (11 oz.) can white Shoepeg corn 2 (4 oz.) cans green chilies, chopped 2 cups half-and-half 1 (32 oz.) box chicken stock 1 ½ cups (about 6oz.) Monterey Jack cheese, grated, plus extra for garnish ½ cup sour cream Green onions for garnish (optional) Bacon crumbles for garnish (optional)

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Method

In large soup pot, cook onions in 2 Tablespoons butter over medium heat until softened. Remove onions from pot, set aside. Melt remaining 6 Tablespoons butter in pot over low-medium heat. Whisk in flour, which creates the roux, and stir continuously for 2-3 minutes. Stir in onions.

Slowly add half-and-half and ž box of chicken stock, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally. Simmer for 5 minutes or until it begins to thicken. If too thick, add more chicken stock.

Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt and pepper. Add chicken, corn, beans, green chilies, and cheese.

Cook over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally for 20 minutes. Stir in sour cream. Cook for 5 minutes. Ladle into bowls, garnish with bacon crumbles, green onions, and grated cheese.

Serve with warm and crispy French bread.

Tasty tips: Taste test after adding the spices, giving the chili a few minutes to simmer. I always go back and add more along the way, but I’m a spice hound and tend to be heavyhanded when it comes to pepper, chili powder and cumin.

If you prefer a thinner consistency, add more chicken stock or half-and-half, just be sure to adjust the spices!

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Southern Staple recipe, Words and image Catherine Frederick

The Bloody Mary is a Southern staple. Any card-carrying Southerner will attest to that.

And if you want to impress your friends and keep hangovers at bay, I suggest you have a damn good recipe. We start with our favorite mix as a base—trust me, we’ve tried them all and there’s none better—then let the doctoring up process begin.

METHOD

INGREDIENTS ½ oz. Smirnoff® Citrus Vodka

(fills one 16oz. mason jar)

1

4oz. Whiskey Willy’s Original Bloody Mary Mix

½ oz. Bombay® Sapphire Dry Gin

¼ teaspoon Tabasco® 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce

½ teaspoon Prepared Horseradish 1 teaspoon Dill Pickle Juice Juice from

½ of a Lime

Combine all ingredients except garnishment in cocktail shaker with cubed ice. Shake vigorously until combined. Pour into glass and garnish as you like.

1 splash Angostura® Aromatic Bitters Garnishment options: celery stalk, pickled okra, cubed cheese, jalapeño-stuffed green olive, pickle spear, lime wedge, cocktail onion, shrimp

Always drink responsibly. Never drink and drive.

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54

travel

Lead toMethe odge!

L Words and images courtesy Big Cedar Lodge

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travel taste

If dropping temperatures have you dreaming of cozy winter getaways, the perfect solution may lie right across the border. Tucked away in Missouri’s Ozark Mountains is Big Cedar Lodge, an 800-acre natural haven that exudes rustic elegance. Originally the vacation homes of wealthy entrepreneurs in the 1920s, then known as Big Cedar Hollow, this land has been brought to life by the guiding hand of Johnny Morris, founder of Bass Pro Shops. The successful visionary and conservationist purchased the land in the 1980s, sparing no detail to reveal the beauty of the Ozarks region.

Originally intended to be a fishing camp, Big Cedar Lodge has developed into a world-class destination. With over thirty different room types and an unbelievable array of attractions, guests can do everything or nothing at all.

Ridgetop views are an integral part of the grand Falls Lodge, where deluxe king rooms offer fireplaces, vaulted ceilings, and Jacuzzi tubs with separate walkin showers. Balconies offering sunset views all point toward Table Rock Lake while overlooking the charming Garden Chapel and meandering streams.

If you’re envisioning natural seclusion for your weekend getaway, more than eighty private cabins dot the vast property, scattering across the lakeside or tucked cozily into the surrounding woods. A one room cabin is sized perfectly for two, with a studio-style king bed adjacent to a wood burning fireplace. With firewood restocked daily and room service available for every meal, you don’t even have to leave your room if you choose.

Certainly the crème-de-la-crème of romance retreats can be found inside Cottage 600. Designed with relaxation in mind, this one-of-a-kind Tudor-style accommodation is

chandeliers. A roaring fireplace serves as the dramatic backdrop

perched over a stream that can be seen from the balcony—or

for the saunas, hot spas and steam rooms leading out to private

from the glass floor inside the spa-like bathroom. The open-

open-air showers. Grand double staircases lead you to one of

concept suite offers a king bed, sofa, and wood burning

eleven luxuriously appointed treatment rooms, each with its own

fireplace, with heated floors throughout.

cozy fireplace. After indulging in a relaxing massage or facial, experience the soothing qualities of hot and cold therapy inside

A charming bridge fit for a storybook is all that separates Cottage

the stone-lined grotto pool and ice room. Start with the ninety-five

600 and the world-class Cedar Creek Spa. This 18,000 square-

degree calming pool and its water jets, and then make your way to

foot paradise is complete with hand-hewn timber ceilings, natural

the grotto’s forty-five degree ice chamber, where a hand-activated

stone floors, handcrafted stained-glass accents, and antique-style

laser beam dispenses ice to invigorate and energize your body.

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All of the little things add up to a lot of charm at Big Cedar Lodge. If you can manage to leave the ambiance of the crackling fireside in your private cabin, a stroll across the property’s grounds offers an array of surprises. Your meandering may take you past the turtle pond, historic Worman House, or to Devil’s Pool Bridge with its breathtaking waterfall patio.

As dinnertime rolls around, dining options abound at Big Cedar Lodge. Enjoy the views of Table Rock Lake from one of Big Cedar’s three restaurants: Devil’s Pool Restaurant, Buzzard Bar, and Truman Café. (Insider note: the Buzzard Bar offers live entertainment every night.)

For the traveler who wants to add a little adventure, look no further than Johnny Morris’ Top of the Rock Ozarks Heritage Preserve. Located adjacent to Big Cedar, this landmark first for the region is a true celebration of the Ozarks terrain and its early settlers. Pack you sweater and embark on the 2.5 mile Lost Canyon Cave and Nature Trail, where you’ll drive yourself on a golf cart through the ancient Ozarks landscape past waterfalls, scenic overlooks, over handmade Amish bridges, and even through a cave. Once reaching Top of the Rock, spectacular views open to the Arnold Palmer Driving Range, Tom Watson Putting Green, and Jack Nicklaus Golf Course all overlooking Table Rock Lake. (Insider Tip: For a truly exclusive experience, stay overnight in the Civil War-era cabin, the only overnight accommodation at Top of the Rock. This historic structure was

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travel taste

relocated and rebuilt by local Amish craftsmen and overlooks the driving range, hole #1 and Table Rock Lake.)

Dining at Top of the Rock is nothing short of extraordinary.

Arnie’s Barn Restaurant is a 150-year-old barn that was found in Arnold Palmer’s hometown. The barn was moved and reassembled by local Amish craftsmen at Top of Rock where it now serves Mexican food with an Ozarks flare. The cornerstone dining experience, however, is The Osage, with enchanting sunset views and traditional Americana fare. There truly isn’t a bad seat in the house with panoramic scenes of the Ozark hills and décor that reflects the inspiration drawn from the landscape and history of the area. Below The Osage is Buffalo Bar, with wood-fired pizzas and open-air patios.

Descend the stone-lined stairway from Buffalo Bar to find yourself in the End of the Trail All-American Wine Cellar.

With its candlelight ambiance and awe-inspiring views from the infinity pool, this destination is the perfect place to unwind before or after dinner.

At the heart of Top of the Rock, you can learn about the passion that started it all at the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum.

This subterranean adventure chronologically walks you through the development of the Ozarks, beginning with the real skeletal remains and dioramas of the prehistoric era and finishes with impressive displays of Civil War history. The museum features one of the most astounding collections of Native American

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artifacts ever assembled. You’ll walk away feeling inspired as you learn about the key history of this region and its evolution into one of the country’s best-kept secrets.

If your romantic weekend for two turns into a family affair, don’t worry—there is plenty to see and do for guests of all ages. The Kid’s Adventure Club, for ages four through twelve, is a hands-on experience for the resort’s younger guests.

From archery, to cooking, to plants and wildlife, each club has a different theme where kids will have different games and activities to collect adventure pins. Big Cedar Adventure Planners are released monthly and give guests the low down on the don’t-miss activities during their stay, like bingo, bonfires, movies and scavenger hunts.

Don’t let Big Cedar fall off your radar, because in the coming months there will be even more exciting additions. As Johnny Morris’ incredible vision for the Ozarks continues, a gristmill, treehouse, and shooting range are all in the works.

Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, located in nearby Lampe, Missouri, is a 10,000-acre nature-lover’s paradise with horseback riding, wildlife tram tours, fishing, hiking and biking.

In the spring, the property will reopen with a new working gristmill, complete with a general store, restaurant, bike barn, and patio area. The education center will offer a place for groups and families to learn more about conservation, and includes a treehouse built by the Treehouse Masters.

Also coming this year is the Bass Pro Shops Outdoor Academy, a great place to practice your sharpshooting with a variety of shooting sports available. The Academy will also be home to an outdoor amphitheater that will host unforgettable entertainment.

No matter the season, Big Cedar Lodge has served as the ultimate escape for generations as its visitors have sought to find tranquility and a little piece of heaven on earth. Whether your trip is a getaway for two or twelve, unforgettable memories await.

To plan your getaway and learn more about Big Cedar, visit bigcedar.com or call 1.800.225.6343.

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southern fiction

Signs of Departure FICTION Marla Cantrell, Arkansas Arts Council Fellow in Short Fiction

T

Tom threw his stuff in the back of his truck this morning, after the big

engagement. Six months. To a man from Arizona. I drew a breath

fight, after we'd talked all night, both of us finally crying.

when I first heard the news. At the time, Arizona seemed far away enough from Arkansas not to matter.

"It was a mess from the start," he said, and what he meant was that we were both engaged when we met, and that we tore two people

"And I guess you never look up Dan?" Tom said, and I stared him

apart when we got together, tore them up good.

down. Dan was the man that maybe I should have married. "Never," I said. And Tom said, "Cora, you're a liar."

So I just shook my head when he said it. Then Tom ran his fingers through his dark hair like he does, and that flicker of why I'd fallen for

It's foggy this morning, the world gray as a ghost. I used to like

him, and why I'd do it again, sparked, even if I'd known we'd end up

mornings like this. Fog is soft. Fog is a feather. But lately it's turned

right here, dark circles under our eyes, and bitter to the core.

into a parachute that's come down to blind us. You don't know whose parachute it is, but you know they took off running once their

"You've been looking up Cecilia online again," I said, and this

feet hit the ground and didn't look back.

time he didn't deny it. Cecilia married quick after Tom broke their

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southern fiction

Tom should be at work by now, out at the plant where they make

that Bible verse that has the phrase, "For now we see through a glass

nuts and bolts and screws. He used to wear a T-shirt that had the

darkly." Corinthians, I think. I was raised on the King James version,

picture of a giant screw on it, and it said "Screw You" in big orange

the words mysterious as Latin sometimes, but so full of poetry. I used

letters, but then his boss made him quit it. "Not good for morale,"

to read it for hours, holed up in my room, my parents fussing more

he'd said, and Tom just pointed to the message on his shirt.

likely than not, and Ben bouncing his basketball against the outside of the house.

Two hours later, just as the fog retreats, I head for my car. I should go to work—I sell tires down at Corky's Auto and More—but my old

Sederman's Park is on the edge of town. It's just a few picnic

Hyundai veers north when it should go south. When I drive by where

tables and a trail that wraps around a body of water that's more

Tom works, his pickup is parked at the far end of the lot. He's got his

pond than lake.

rust-colored recliner in the bed of the truck. Three trash bags full of clothes. His high-dollar ice chest is in there, too. If he put icy beer in

I've got on my best boots, not fit for walking, but I head out anyway.

it right now, it would still be cold in August. And this is only January.

There's a runner up ahead. He turns the corner, rounds the part where the pine trees block out the light. I make it once around the

The security guard is short and bulky, and his name tag says

water, and I'm puffing like an old lady. The guy passes me while I'm

"Butch." He won't let me in the parking lot, even after I tell him

bent over, my hands on my knees. I stand up straight and he turns

who I am, even after I show him my driver's license. I twine a lock

around so he's facing me, jogs in place, says, "You OK? You look a

of my honey-colored hair around my index finger and try my best

little, well..."

to pout. "Cannot let you in, ma'am," Butch says, his voice a cloud in the frosty air when he speaks, but I can still see my reflection in

"Out of shape?" I ask.

his sunglasses. I'm a thirty-three-year-old woman who could pass "No, no," he says. "Hurt. You look hurt. Like your feelings, you

for forty this morning, and so I start to cry.

know. I get like that sometimes."

"Come on, now, ma'am," Butch says, and cuffs me on the arm the way my brother Ben used to do. "Rules is rules." And then he

I should be embarrassed, I know I should, but I need someone to

points to Tom's truck, and I realize they must be buddies. "I would

listen. "My husband left this morning," I say. "Packed up his stuff and

not venture to know the extent of your trouble, but I'd say letting

took off. Didn't even look back, I don't think."

you anywhere near that pickup would only make it worse."

He stops running in place. "Man," he says. "Has he done that We stand like that until Butch pulls his handkerchief out of his

before?"

pocket, takes my wrist, and lays the hankie in the palm of my hand. That one act, Butch's fingers touching my skin, feels like an

I think about lying, but what's the point? "Yeah," I say.

ache. When was the last time Tom held my hand? Long enough that I have to search to find it.

"Like, a lot?"

"Come on, now" he says again, but this time his voice is an apology.

"What's a lot?"

Back in my car, I fish my phone out of my purse, touching the spiky

The runner takes off his beanie, scratches his head. His hair is

bristles of my hairbrush, tossing aside a tube of lip gloss. Even if Tom

brown and shiny and he's probably not a day over twenty. "How

wanted to call, he couldn't. No phones allowed inside the factory.

long you been married?"

Still, I look at mine. No missed calls. No text messages. I start to type on my phone's small screen but stop before I hit "send."

"Eleven years."

I drop my phone in the cup holder and drive. The day is dull. I think of

He bends his left knee, grabs the toe of his left shoe and bends it

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back, stretching his leg while he thinks. "Five. Five times would be

"No," I say, "no. Three years ago today." I point again, this time

a lot."

to the highway and beyond. "He fell off Cedar Bluff, horsing around with his friends, late at night." My nose burns, a sure sign I'm going to cry, so I rub my temples to try to stop it. "One of the

"Try twelve."

deputies came to my house to tell me. He said, 'We are none of us ever promised tomorrow.' That's what I remember. The cop,

"Dang," he says. "But he always comes back?"

standing with his hat in his hand, sounding biblical."

"So far."

"You think your husband knows what day it is?"

"And what does he say when he blasts back through your door?"

I shake my head no. If I think he did, then I'll not be able to take him I rub the spot between my eyes. "Not much, anymore. We've

back, even if he comes to me with a fistful of flowers, even if he rides

got what you'd call a communication problem. I just thought

in on his recliner like a king.

today of all days..."

The runner stands up straighter. He looks around. Beyond the There is silence then, but not really silence. My heart is a drum. Crows

way is a picnic table with a grill beside it, balls of aluminum foil

cry. The traffic on the two-lane highway that leads here and then past

like Christmas ornaments gathered where the charcoal should be.

here, out to Texas, eventually, rumbles.

"What was Ben's favorite meal?" he asks, and I say, "White Spot hamburgers, fried potatoes, cherry pie."

"What's today?" the runner asks as he takes a step toward me.

"Dang," he says. "I love White Spot. They put those grilled onions "I have a brother, Ben," I say, and then I squeeze my eyes shut

on the burgers." He rubs his hands together. "Dang," he says again.

for a second. "Two years older than me." I hold my hand up

"We should go there. Eat what Ben loved. You can tell me stories

high. "Tall. He wrote things. Stories. Poems. A lot of them had

about him. Tell me about the alligators and what-not."

alligators in them. He played guitar. The girls," I say. "Well, anyway, the girls loved him." My voice quivers. "He left one

The air smells like pine and dirt. The runner's face opens like

day." I press my palms together. "Just left."

the sky. One of his front teeth just barely overlaps the other. It is recklessness to say yes for a dozen reasons besides my being

The runner's eyes are blue, like wildflowers I'd seen on the road

married, or maybe barely married, even if the runner is just a kid

to Amarillo. Lady Bird Johnson. Wasn't she the one who planted

with a good heart. But if I say no, my chance at reliving Ben, for

flowers everywhere? I almost ask him, but then he takes another

putting him back together, will disappear.

step and puts his hand on my shoulder, squeezes, and says, And so I give in. And for an hour, maybe longer, the calendar turns

"Where is he now?"

the wrong way, the deputy unsays Ben's name, and Cedar Bluff I point up. And the runner follows my finger to the sky, which is

unkills my brother. I talk until I can hear Ben's voice again. The day he

cloud-ridden. "There," I say, and he says, "Heaven?"

died, he stopped by my house. When he left, he ruffled my hair the way he had my entire life. As he walked away, I watched through the

The men I know, down at the tire center, out at the Elks Club where

kitchen window. It looked as if light was spilling from his head, blue

beer's still cheap, they all want you to get to the point, but this guy

and violet and yellow. It spiked around him, a crown, electric, jagged.

just listens. I shake my head yes.

I should have known then that Ben wasn't coming back, but I didn't suspect a thing. I thought he was playing some kind of trick, and

"Oh, man," he says, and a crease forms in his forehead. "It didn't

that when he came back he'd tell me how he'd done it. That's what

happen this morning, did it?"

I thought when the cop knocked on my door. I thought, Ben's back, but of course, he wasn't.

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FAMILY HEALTH AND WELLNESS

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FAMILY HEALTH AND WELLNESS

SPARKS HEALTH SYSTEM ARKANSAS SURGICAL WEIGHT LOSS 479.709.DOCS SparksHealth.com / ARSurgicalWeightLoss.com

‘OH, THE PLACES YOU WILL GO’ TWO FRIENDS COVER NEW GROUND WITH WEIGHT LOSS JOURNEY

Stephanie Hancock, 41, says she didn’t realize how overweight she was. Years of working long hours as a nurse, taking classes and stopping at fast-food chains after little league practice caught up to her.

Two years ago, her family took a vacation to Florida. She was a size 24 and just walking from the condo to the beach made her short of breath.

“I’d just sit in the lawn chair and watch everybody else have a great time,” she said. “I wanted to be involved. I wanted to be a part of it.”

When she returned she told her coworker, Debbie Parish, 62, it was time to make a change. The women had gone through many diets during their 15-year friendship, but never saw lasting results. They attended a free seminar with Arkansas Surgical Weight Loss at Sparks Regional Medical Center to learn more about bariatric surgery options such as gastric bypass and gastric sleeve.

Although there’s 20 years difference in their ages, their goals were the same. The two scheduled an appointment together with Dr. C Michael Gooden at Arkansas Surgical Associates and have supported each other every step of the way.

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OFF TO GREAT PLACES Since their surgeries in March 2014, the women have collectively lost 230 pounds. They regularly go to Marvin Altman Fitness Center and have become certified Zumba instructors. Both plan to run the relay portion of the upcoming Fort Smith Marathon with two other bariatric surgery patients.

Their energy is definitely contagious. Coworkers and family members are making healthier choices. Their patients are much more receptive to advice too.

“We were taking care of all of these people and trying to teach them how to get healthy, but we weren’t healthy,” Stephanie said.

Now both women are off medications for high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Stephanie’s husband is better managing his diabetes and her children exercise more. Debbie’s husband has since had bariatric surgery, too, and is enjoying retirement.

“It’s so worth it, not only just for the way we feel, but seeing how we can encourage other people,” Stephanie said.

MOVE MOUNTAINS Both women agree bariatric surgery is just a ‘tool’ to help patients get a jumpstart on their weight loss. Changing eating habits and activity levels is up to you.

“When you go out to eat, they give you massive portions that no one should be eating,” Stephanie said. “I could keep eating and eating until I made myself sick.”

Stephanie says thanks to the gastric sleeve she finally feels “full.” Now they look for entertainment not with food but activities like going to antique malls or hiking.

“It doesn’t matter what shape you’re in or what your age is, as long as you’re moving,” Debbie said. “Just go.”

To learn more about bariatric surgery, log on to ArkansasSurgicalWeightLoss. com and sign up to attend a free seminar or call (479) 709-DOCS.

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