Simply Hers Magazine November/December 2019

NOV/DEC 2019

SH S I M P L Y

it’s a woman thing!

BRANCH/HILLSDALE/LENAWEE

H E R S

LISA SLADE THE FINISH LINE

PASSIONATE ABOUT SERVING GREAT FOOD TO THE COMMUNITY

SALVATION ARMY

FAMILY STORE AND DONATION CENTER

JUMP INTO A JUMPSUIT THIS WINTER

plus LOCAL HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS

FREE1

It’s a miracle.

I have no pain.

I don’t know how to thank Dr. Shendge. I have a brand new knee, he fixed the bone in my leg and straightened my leg—I never thought I’d see that leg straight again.

NINA SPENCER & DR. VITHAL SHENDGE

HIGH-QUALITY CARE YOU TRUST.

2

Hillsdale Orthopedics (517) 439-5411 hillsdalehospital.com

BUILT FOR STYLE, COMFORT, AND MOST IMPORTANTLY, FUN — 2020 FORD —

Escape

Starting at

24,873

$

See The Professionals Eric Hoffman, Jeff Hess, Chris Finch, Roger Karr, Chad Gibler, Jim Cole, Rob Sayles, Jeremy Taylor, Christopher Finch II, Rob Grossheim, Tim Kempter, Beshad Kowssaire, Steve Rzepka, Dustin Dihle, Billy Fielhauer and Steve Iveson

www.stillwellford.com

(517) 849-2121 M-99 (Between Hillsdale & Jonesville)

3

from the publisher

Ask The Expert

By Rob Shewman

WINTER AGAIN Marlanea McGraw Owner/Publisher

WELL, LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, IT IS FAST APPROACHING THAT WONDERFUL TIME OF YEAR AGAIN. With our temperatures already beginning to get below freezing, it is time to make sure our cars are ready for the long, cold winter.

Tires are an integral part of winterizing our vehicles.

The National Highway Safety conducted a test that showed all-season tires at tread depths as high as 6/32 (half-life) had remarkably lower handling in winter snow, sleet, and ice conditions.

Although they are not saying you have to run right out and get new tires or snow tires, this is important to know so that you can adjust yourdriving for potential loss of traction and handling. If your tires are 4/32 or below, we recommend new tires or snow tires for the winter season.

Now is the time to have your belts, hoses, battery, and coolant inspected.

Belts and hoses that are aged and dry may become weaker or break in freezing temperatures. Your mechanic should also inspect and test the coolant in your car to make sure that it is in optimal condition to protect your engine.

Are your heating and defrosting systems working properly? Do your wiper blades need replacing?

Visibility is greatly affected in the winter and making sure these systems function properly goes a long way in helping improve visibility.

517-439-1323 146 Lewis St Hillsdale

See our Season’s Savings Card located on the page 20 4

As incredible as it is, this issue of Simply Hers begins our TENTH year of publication!

I remember the early days so well, and it amazes me to see what’s become of this venture. We started with a small number of pages, some very brave advertisers, and a lot of hopes. Now we have four magazines, distribution in four counties, numerous contributors, and many supportive businesses providing us with advertising revenue. I have no words to express how thankful I am for how the community has supported and encouraged me and my staff!

We hope you will enjoy another double holiday issue! We’ve included many articles to help you handle your holidays as well as pump up the holiday spirit a bit. The holiday events calendar is updated, so take a look and find something new and fun to do this year! On the “flip side,” don’t miss our cover article on restaurant owner Lisa Slade, our spotlight articles on two local businesses, and the unknown abolitionist Laura Smith Haviland along with many more.

Please, please, please remember to browse the ads and do your best to SHOP LOCALLY this holiday season! I say it a lot, but it needs to be said—without our advertisers, we would not be able to bring this publication to you. Their belief in this magazine, their loyalty, and their support have been instrumental in getting Simply Hers off the ground and keeping it thriving.

With the year drawing to a close, I also want to offer my sincere thanks to my staff. We’ve had some tumultuous months over the last year with major life upheavals in our lives, but we’ve pulled together and pulled through! They are a wonderful group, and I am so happy to have them.

We wish all our readers a happy holiday season filled with love, joy, and warm memories!

SH S I M P L Y

H E R S

SALES STAFF

Sherry Sheffer

Simply Hers is published by and is the property of

CHESTNEY PUBLISHING For information on how to submit story ideas, concerns, or information on how to advertise, please contact Marlanea McGraw 517-320-9235 • sales@simplyhers.net www.simplyhers.net Simply Hers Magazine makes every effort to provide accurate information in advertising and editorial content, however, does not make any claims as to accuracy of information provided by advertisers or editorial contributors and accepts no responsibility or liability for inaccurate information

Cyndi Young

Hannah Sayles

EDITOR Melissa McCance GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Angela Blake Amanda Honeywell Laura Kast PHOTOGRAPHY Synergy In Motion Studios CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Peggie Bildner Sarah Gray Melissa McCance Tim Dixon Laura Loveberry Nancy Ryan Willie Smith Stephanie Gordon James Campbell Diane Clow Alicia Curtis Hannah Burkhart Rachel Yoder Aimee Spencer Tiemann

TM

OUTDOOR LIVING MADE BEAUTIFUL

JONESVILLE LUMBER (517) 849-2181 | 108 W Chicago St | Jonesville | www.jonesvillelumber.com

5

C O N T E N T

On the Cover 10

Finish Line Restaurant

Fashion 13 Jumpsuits

MUSCLE UP - Live Fit 16 Go for the Goals

13

Local Spotlight 21 Salvation Army

Peripheral Artery Disease 22 What is it?

Business Spotlight 24 The Local Eatery

Ask the Doctor 26 Influenza

40 Stuff

You May Not Know About

Turn the Page 30

42 Keeping It In Stitches

The Local Beat 32

44 City Pages

Book and Author Reviews

What’s New With Your Favorite Businesses

Gray Matters 34

Many Roses Among the Thorns for 2019

3 Boys and a Transplant 36 The Day Finally Arrives

Legal Matters 38

How Does an IRA Fit Into Your Estate Plan?

A Gift of Gift Giving Hillsdale - 44 Jonesville - 46 Coldwater - 48 Tecumseh - 52 Manitou Beach - 54 Adrian - 56

36

58 Simply Speaking

It’s Straight Up Interesting

60 Life is the Berries Life is Messy

62 Over The Edge Birthday Surprise

NOV/DEC 2019

SH S I M P L Y

g! it’s a woman thin AWEE LE/LEN

BRANCH/HILLSDA

46

H E R S

LISA SLADE THE FINISH LINE

PASSIONATE G ABOUT SERVIN GREAT FOOD TO ITY THE COMMUN

On the Cover:

KEGAN KARES

When Lisa Slade began working at The Finish Line Family Restaurant (then known as House of Flavors) in 1977, she had no idea she would someday own the restaurant.

Lisa’s work ethic, commitment to her customers, and her staff have made The Finish Line a staple of the community for over 40 years. Learn more about this inspirational woman and her family on page 10.

LOCAL STUDENT GIVES BACK

FASHIONABLE WRAPS FOR R WINTER WEATHE

plus

MICHIGAN HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS

6

FREE1

Photo by Synergy In Motion Studios

Holiday Open House

Fri. Nov. 15th and Sat. Nov.16th, 10:00 am to 5:30 pm

In celebration of our many blessings we want to offer you

20% STOREWIDE* and special savings on Christmas decor *Sale applies to full price merchandise

10 North Howell Street Hillsdale 517-437-3113

Style

Maribeth’s

HOME DECOR & MORE

Fashion

7

Glei’s Orchard & Greenhouse - 49 Glory to God - 4 Green Energy LP - 63 Greener Grass Farms - 31 Griffiths Mechanical - 29 Hidden Lake Gardens - 55 Hillsdale Academy - 39 Hillsdale Buick GMC - 9 Hillsdale Community Foundation - 8 Hillsdale Family Chiropractic - 61 Hillsdale Hospital - 2 Hillsdale Medical Associates - 23 Hillsdale Natural Grocery - 43 Hillsdale Towing - 63 Hospice of HIllsdale County - 64 Hudson Pharmacy - 63 Jonesville Lumber - 5 Key Consignment - 61 Kimball Camp - 33 Law of Timothy E. Dixon - 39 Longstreet Living - 33 Loveberry’s Tree Farm - 49 Lynch Brothers Insurance - 63 M.T. Hardwoods - 59

88

HCCF also offers a secure, confidential online giving option. Simply visit www.abouthccf.org and click the yellow “Donate” button.

⃝ Yes

⃝ No

Please make checks payable to: Hillsdale County Community Foundation (HCCF) PO Box 276 Hillsdale, MI 49242 All donations are tax deductible.

Publish my name on the donor list:

City, State, Zip: ________________________________________

Donations for this crucial program are gratefully accepted by the Hillsdale County Community Foundation throughout the year.

Please consider a contribution to provide new warm, winter clothing to families in need in Hillsdale County.

Address: _____________________________________________

The Warm the Children Fund provides financial support for children in need in Hillsdale County to receive new warm, winter clothing.

Program coordinators work with a local agency to determine eligibility for program participation and make arrangements with a local store to coordinate the shopping.

Maribeth’s - 7 Mindy Shoemaker, Viaggio Salon - 45 Modern Waste - 61 Omega Physical Therapy - 63 Pediatric Place, Dr. Ellis - 27 Performance Automotive - 47 Prestige Title - 57 PRIME Fitness - 18 Professional Hearing Services - 26 Rob’s Rentals - 55 Rosalie’s Roadhouse - 47 Ryan & Bradshaw - 39 Spratt’s Hobby Center - 45 State Farm Insurance - 59 Stillwell Ford, Lincoln - 3 Tecumseh Center for the Arts - 53 The Local Eatery - 25 The Salvation Army - 20 Tilton & Sons Shoes 52 Toasted Mud - 45 Todd H. Ryan, D.D.S. - 61 Trevathan’s Sweep & Sew - 45 Visiting Angels - 35

Enclosed is my donation to the Warm the Children Fund

Ann’s by Design - 57 Athletico - 28 Barrett’s Showplace Gardens and Flower Shop - 57 Becker & Scrivens - 19 Belson Asphalt - 43 Boot Jack Tavern - 55 Bras that Fit - 45 Bretty’s - 47 British Tea Garden - 52 Brown & Sons Roofing & Siding - 57 Buentello Pest Control - 27 C&H Family Practice - 51 CAPA - 43 CHBW - 59 CR Cars LLC - 49 Country Carpets - 47 Devils Lake View Living - 55 Dr. Desjarlais - 12 Drew’s Place - 35 Eagle Funeral Homes - 63 Eversew Quilted - 43 Ferry Farms - 50 Gallery of Shops - 56

Without their continued commitment & support, this publication would not be possible.

Name: _______________________________________________

Please thank our ADVERTISERS

Merry Christmas from all of us at Hillsdale Buick GMC

H i l l s d a l e • 5 1 7 - 4 3 7 - 7 3 3 4 | w w w. h i l l s d a l e b u i c kg m c. co m

9

on the cover

THE

Finish Line When Lisa Slade began working at The Finish Line Family Restaurant (then known as House of Flavors) in 1977, she had no idea that she would someday own the restaurant and make it a staple of the Hillsdale community for more than 40 years.

“We have good food and good service at reasonable prices,” she says of the restaurant she has been part of for almost as long as it has been open.

House of Flavors opened at 75 W. Carleton Road in Hillsdale in 1976.

The chain ice cream and sandwich shop had several locations, mostly in northern Michigan. Lisa began waitressing there in 1977 while she was still in high school. Although she had some aspirations of becoming a lawyer, she kept on at the restaurant, moving up the ladder from dining room manager to assistant manager and then manager. She married her husband Jerry and had two daughters, Christie and Whitney.

Then, in 1995, Lisa was presented with a significant opportunity.

Several years prior, the restaurant had been purchased by a retired teacher. Tragically, she died in a car accident. Her husband worked with Lisa to help her purchase the restaurant she had been managing and from then on she was in charge.

By then, House of Flavors menu had grown to serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but the name suggested there was only ice cream inside. So Lisa, backed by her husband and family’s love of racing, decided to change the name to The Finish Line Family Restaurant. She says they still, however, serve House of Flavors ice cream.

10

LISA SLADE’S PASSION for serving GREAT FOOD to her COMMUNITY By Sarah Gray The newly-refurbished interior is decorated with photos of local racers and the dessert menu has a racing theme.

Lisa’s work ethic, commitment to her customers, and her staff have made The Finish Line a staple of the community. “It is important to find what your passion is,” she says. “Work by definition is work. When you decide what you are passionate about you put in the work and the extra effort. Being successful in life – whatever you are doing – doesn’t just happen.”

Her hard work and drive were ingrained in her two daughters who got their first jobs working at their mother’s restaurant.

“From a young age, I always had a really good example of the commitment and hard work it takes to run a business and be a mother,” her daughter Whitney says. “She set a great example of both.”

Whitney says she started waitressing at The Finish Line at age 14 and learned some valuable lessons. “It taught me from a young age to be comfortable with people and I had a sense of responsibility from a young age which helped me to become a responsible adult.” Whitney is a chiropractor and owns Concord Chiropractic which she opened in May. Her sister Christie also got her start at the restaurant.

She says the skills she learned working at The Finish Line helped her

become successful in her career as a real estate agent and broker. “She taught us to serve well, be personable, and treat everyone the same,” she says. “She taught us efficiency in work as well and never to walk in or out of the kitchen emptyhanded. Its little things like that that have stuck with me. They are good skills to learn.”

Christie, who owns Christie Plemmons Realty in the building right next to The Finish Line, says her mother is a “well-oiled machine.” Whitney adds that although they knew she was busy with the restaurant “she always had time for us. She did both jobs very well.”

Lisa beams when she talks about her daughters and the women they have grown into. “I am very proud of both my daughters. They are successful in their own right. They both work hard and love what they do.”

The Finish Line may be the place to go for a good homecooked meal, but that does not mean the menu is stagnant.

There are staples everyone knows and loves, but Lisa says they are always trying out new specials, and, if one becomes a customer favorite, it is added to the menu. Likewise, if an item on the menu is constantly passed over, it will be taken off.

Seasonal dishes are also very popular with a pumpkin-themed menu in the fall and strawberries and chicken salad in the summer.

Lisa says she enjoys the “challenges and puzzles” that working in the food industry brings. “In the restaurant business, there are so many moving parts.”

I am very proud of both my daughters. They are successful in their own right. They both work hard and love what they do

She says she has been blessed with a “great staff and awesome cooks,” many of whom have been with her for many years. Much of her love of her business comes from her customers. “It is fun to establish relationships with members of the community,” she says.

Business stays busy with the influx of Hillsdale College students in the fall and vacationers in the summer. She says she enjoys being a place people can come and get a good meal. “People enjoy going out to eat. They like the experience.”

Lisa says she has no plans of going anywhere or changing any time soon. She is already looking ahead to 2026. “God willing, we will be here to celebrate 50 years and one year later I will be here 50 years,” she says, adding that she celebrated the restaurant’s 30th and 40th anniversaries and is already looking forward to and planning for the 50th. “I have no plans of slowing down.”

The Finish Line Family Restaurant is open every day from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. A full menu and more information can be found on their website: www.finishlinerestaurant.net. The business can also be found on Facebook.

11

Look Your

Holiday Best!

Countdown to Healthy, Holiday Skin:

DESJARLAIS AESTHETIC GIFT CERTIFICATES

• FREE consultations for a personalized skin care regimen • Relaxing, Luxurious Silk Peel • Skin Rejuvenation & Tightening • Body Contouring … and more!

A GIFT THAT KEEPS GIVING!

D ESJARLAIS A ESTHETIC C ENTER Medical Aesthetics • Cosmetic Dermatology • Complete Skin Care

Over 20 Years of Experience 12

www.drdesjarlais.com

517.759.3191 • 2000 Curtis Rd • lower level • Adrian

Get A

Jumpsuits...

Rompers... whatever you choose to call them, they are definitely here to stay.

Whether you are a fashionista or simply looking for a loweffort, stylish outfit, the romper might be a great addition to your existing wardrobe.

Though the romper is traditionally a summer piece of clothing, rompers can actually be adapted into a trendy fall or winter fashion. We have found a few of our favorite looks of the season. Take a peek, but keep in mind there are challenges involved in a trip to the little girls’ room.

13

Little Black Jumpsuit Every girl knows the closet is incomplete without the famed Little Black Dress. However, in addition to the LBD, the same is true for its younger, more limb-inclusive sister, the Little Black Jumpsuit. Not only are jumpsuits super comfortable, but they actually can be much more versatile than their dress counterparts. An LBJ in particular can look just as dressy as an LBD, but with the pants factor you’re getting all of the formality without the excess exposure of your lower extremities as temperatures drop.

14

Fashionista They are the answer for style when a woman doesn’t want to wear a dress, but she wants the simplicity of wearing a dress (not needing to match a shirt with a skirt or pants.) Rompers offer the added bonus of versatility when it comes to shoes. Most shoe types will pair well with a romper, from flats to heels to boots, the possibilities are endless.

Romper Dress

There are several styles of rompers that are suitable for formal events, date nights, and other activities, and more and more women are opting for those over traditional nice dresses.

This is predominantly because rompers are more comfortable and easier to move around in. If you’re tired of worrying about big gusts of wind or sitting properly in your chair, think about switching up your formal attire by wearing a romper dress.

15

16

Go for the

By James Campbell PRIME Fitness Studio

GOALS

Today, I sit on a plane as I fly to Florida for yet another Strongman comp, but this one is a bit different. It’s a world’s show, and I find myself thinking about how intimidating that COULD be. To some, doing any of the things I’ve done in a comp seems impossible. Trust me, there have been times I’ve felt the same.

Hahaha! Where am I going with this? Well, I understand how intimidating it COULD be for someone who’s never been in the gym or hasn’t been in a long time. Even though they feel this way, they (maybe you) still desire the outcome of a progressionbased program. I mean, who doesn’t want to be a little leaner, more confident, and just plain healthier? You can lower your cholesterol, manage diabetes, cure aching joints, or minimize or eliminate lower back pain. All of this can be accomplished with exercise!

So, let’s go a step further and say you took that initiative and walked into your local fitness spot (PRIME I hear is highly recommended). When you walk in, you are met by this fitness guru who may intimidate you more. Here is where I’ll tell you that a real trainer is eager and happy to meet you. He or she wants nothing more than for you to meet your goals and become a better you. I’m not saying you aren’t good already, I’m just saying that your goals—all goals—are in place for you to be a better version of you. Fitness is no different, so in this case, I mean a healthier, stronger version of you. More confidence to bring out that smile more frequently or to stand in front of a group of people with your head held higher or with your chest taller.

So, don’t be intimidated by that trainer that may appear to be this unapproachable monster because he is wanting nothing more than to lay out a plan of attack to help you be just that.

Remember, the only contest at this point is being better than you were yesterday.

We’re heading into the holiday season; it gets busy, chaotic even, and let’s not forget stressful. Well, for me the next four days will be stressful, so I understand stress. It doesn’t take a lot of time if you really think about it. Three hours a week will dramatically increase your adaptability through this crazy season. I want people to be healthy! I don’t give a d#@* where

you live—find a gym and start this journey TODAY! Literally!

(Well, finish reading this awesome publication that my person created first. I mean this is the 10 anniversary after all!) Then, get started.

It doesn’t matter what you do for a living, it doesn’t matter where you live or how big your family is. Do it for you because I promise you that it’ll make every aspect of your life better!

Makes stress more manageable, maybe because that workout was tough and that you just don’t wanna battle with it . . . it happens, haha! Really, though, there is a way and I have faith in each and every one of you that you can find a way. Don’t wait until the first of the year—why put off what you can do today?

DVR that show you think you’ll miss, put dinner in the crockpot, the kids have practice after school, anyway . . . . See where I’m going with this?

Finally, if it’s been a while or if your motivation is “off,” get that “intimidating” trainer to take care of you because that’s what they really want to do, anyway. With a trainer, you are held accountable with the appointments and, after that, just show up!

They don’t just put the plan together, they will inject motivation and inspiration and, when you do something great, they’ll let you know for sure! We trainers don’t do what we do to get rich, though we are well rewarded through your success, that I assure you.

Who knows? I might be speaking to the next strongman/ woman! How pumped I would be about that!! It all starts with that first step! I’d love to help everyone, but I’m only one man.

There are a handful of trainers in every gym in America and WE want to help YOU! I could talk all day about this I think, so I’ll leave you with this. Don’t let trivial things stand in the way of your fitness future. Find yourself on the other side and you’ll love it . . . and yourself!! To be honest, I’m a little jealous. You have so many gains in front of you! See you again soon, my friends! Until then . . .

MUSCLE UP . . . live fit

17

BE STRONGER THAN YOUR EXCUSES OPEN GYM MEMBERSHIP AS LOW AS ONLY $25MO

• PERSONAL TRAINING • GROUP TRAINING • STRONGMAN TRAINING

PRIME

DIFFERENCE

ONLY $35MO a a a a

CONSULTATION & ASSESSMENT 4 ONE ON ONE SESSIONS CONTINUED TRAINER SUPPORT OPEN GYM MEMBERSHIP

CLASSES: • STRENGTH • CORE • BOOT CAMPS • & MORE! Margot V. Biermann Athletic Center • Corner of Oak and College Streets 18

96 E CARLETON RD. | HILLSDALE — LIKE US ON FACEBOOK FOR SCHEDULES & UPDATES

1919

A COMMUNITY RETAIL SHOP DOING THE MOST GOOD This ad supported by these community-minded businesses: Alumi-Span Docks Biggby Coffee - Hillsdale Bob Evans Farms Inc. Hillsdale MI Plant County National Bank Hillsdale Medical Associates Market House - Hillsdale & Hudson

160 E BACON ST | 517.437.4240

20

LOCAL Spotlight written By: melissa mccance

S

Salvation Army

Family Store & Donation center

core bargains while helping people in your community! Resale shopping has been steadily gaining popularity and interest in second-hand items shows no sign of slowing. The movement to downsize and consume less has made consumers rethink always “buying new.”

People have also learned that resale shopping not only gives you a chance to buy great items at low prices . . . it’s just fun! Every visit to a resale store is a treasure hunt, and the rapid turnover in merchandise means you never know what you’ll find. The Salvation Army Family Store & Donation Center in Hillsdale is a great place to try your hand at this trendy pastime!

Store manager Annette Perkins oversees a staff of thirteen people who work to process donations, stock the displays, and keep things organized while serving customers. Annette came on board in the early part of 2019 at a time when a number of new employees were also hired. “It’s been a learning curve, that’s for sure,” laughs Annette, “but we are doing well now.” She is happy that the number of customers per day is rising—a testimony to the hard work put in by the staff.

One thing many people do not realize is that although profits from the store help fund services provided by the local Salvation Army corps, the store is not run by the corps. The family stores are administered by a separate department within the Salvation Army. So, if you have questions about the store, they should be addressed directly to the store (517-439-1202). Questions about programs and services available through the Salvation Army should go to the corps which is located at 160 E. Bacon St. (517437-4240).

In addition, there are two misconceptions about the Family Store that Annette often encounters. “Some people think we should have garage sale prices because ‘everything you have is donated.’

But, we do have overhead—thousands of dollars per month in overhead. There’s the building payment, utilities, wages, and dumpster costs, just to name some of them.”

Another assumption is that because it’s a resale shop, there aren’t nice things to be found there. In fact, the inventory includes name-brand clothing, nice home goods, toys, movies, CDs, artwork, and jewelry. People who are downsizing or trying to declutter often donate items that are brand new or barely used.

Annette says, “When something especially nice comes in, we do some research and try to price the item for about 60% under what it’s selling for on eBay and other online resale sites.” The store has recently been highlighting some especially nice donations with Facebook posts.

One practice by some donors that definitely doesn’t help is leaving items outside the store when it’s closed. “It’s really a problem and we’re trying to get the word out not to do it,” Annette says.

“People come by and help themselves to what’s out there so the donations never benefit the store. Also, there’s the possibility of weather damage. We can’t bring wet clothes into the store, and electronics, books, puzzles, and such are ruined by water.”

So, stop by the Salvation Army Family Store & Donation Center and see what you find! The store is located at 2940 W. Carleton Ave. near the Premiere Theatre. Store hours are 10 to 7, Monday through Saturday. Follow them on Facebook for the latest news on sales and happenings at the store. (Sneak preview: a big, 50%off sale is planned for the Friday and Saturday after Thanksgiving!)

21

WHAT IS

Peripheral Artery Disease?

Blood flows through your body in both arteries and veins. When an artery is blocked or narrowed, less blood than normal can move through it. If this happens in your legs or arms, it is called peripheral artery disease.

By Hannah Burkhart, FNP Hillsdale Medical Associates

Peripheral artery disease can cause pain and changes in skin color or temperature. It can make it hard to walk or stand for long periods of time. Additionally, this condition can worsen over time. If not treated and blood flow becomes completely blocked, it can permanently damage that part of your body.

Risk factors for peripheral artery disease include high blood sugar or diabetes, current and past smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, and inactivity. Peripheral artery disease may not have any symptoms.

If you do have symptoms, they can include painful cramping in one or both of your hips, thighs or calf muscles after certain activities such as walking or climbing stairs. Other symptoms may include leg numbness or weakness and coldness in your lower leg or foot, especially when compared with the other side.

Additionally, people may report sores on toes, feet, or legs that won’t heal.

22

Diagnostic tests for PAD The ankle brachial index is a measurement of the blood pressure in the lower legs compared to the blood pressure in the arms. The ABI screening helps evaluate the amount of blood flow to the legs and feet which is decreased in a person with PAD. It is a highly accurate method for detecting PAD.

A pulse volume recording is a noninvasive test that measures the blood volume changes that occur in the legs. The PVR test also helps locate the area of blockages in the legs.

A vascular ultrasound is a noninvasive test used to examine blood circulation. The ultrasound uses sound waves that bounce off the artery. These sound waves are recorded, and an image of the vessel is created and displayed on a monitor. This test may be used to detect a blockage in an artery.

Treatments for peripheral artery disease include both surgical and non-surgical options.

Non-surgical treatments include improved diet, exercise, and smoking cessation. Additionally, controlling high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes will help. If exercise therapy and non-surgical interventions are not successful, surgical procedures may be required. These treatments include stents, laser treatments, or bypass grafting.

If the condition is left untreated, patients with peripheral artery disease can develop serious health conditions. These can include heart attack, stroke, TIA, renal artery disease, or amputations. Talk with your healthcare provider if you are having symptoms of peripheral artery disease. Early detection can decrease the risk of severe complications from this condition.

DAN MCCANCE, DO

Holidays

Healthy

May your

be safe, happy &

KEITH BAKER, MD

ROBERT E. SCHALL, MD

KARA WILSON, PA-C

RACHEL GIER, FNP

HANNAH BURKHART, FNP

HILLSDALE MEDICAL ASSOCIATES

HMAPLC.PORTALFORPATIENTS.COM | 1456 HUDSON RD. | HILLSDALE | 517.439.0200 | HOURS: MON.-FRI. • 9 AM - 5 PM HMAPLC.PORTALFORPATIENTS.COM | 32 S. BROAD ST. | HILLSDALE | 517.437.3361 | HOURS: MON - THU. • 8 AM -6 PM 23

business spotlight

Locally owned for local people When Jason and Dena Walters heard about the opportunity to purchase the restaurant formerly known as The Palace Cafe, they felt a tug to breathe new life into the space. The restaurant holds a special place in Jason’s heart, not only because of its historic significance in the community but because of family history, as Jason’s grandparents owned and operated the Palace Cafe in the 1960’s. Later, his aunt and uncle took over operations. After a few decades, Jason becomes the third generation of this family to operate a restaurant in the same building. Dena is no stranger to the restaurant world, herself, having grown up working alongside her parents, who own and operate the D&S Lounge in Pittsford. Combining Jason’s entrepreneurialism, Dena’s degree in business, and a love of food, the husband

Story by Rachel Yoder

and wife team are filling a niche in downtown Hillsdale with The Local Eatery, which first welcomed the public on September 23.

Thanks to Jason’s training in building restoration and construction and a $10,000 grant from TIFA, the restaurant has undergone a major transformation. Visitors will notice new floors, updated styling, and high-backed booths—perfect for working lunches—all coming together to create a clean, contemporary atmosphere. The kitchen, too, has been completely modernized with all new appliances to serve you the very best. Most of the improvements were completed by Jason, working shoulder to shoulder with his dad, Bill Walters, who worked at The Palace Cafe as a kid. Bill’s work ethic made a huge impact on Jason as a child. Watching his dad buy and run businesses provided the spark for Jason’s own entrepreneurship. Jason’s best friend, Doug Baker, and many other friends and family members also pitched to get The Local Eatery up and running. Without them, none of this would be possible.

The Local Eatery takes diner staples and elevates them to the next level. Their coffee, ground fresh every day, is quickly becoming known as the best cup of coffee in town. Jason and Dena believe strongly in supporting local business and do their best to source from local producers, turning local products into Hillsdale’s favorite dishes. For breakfast, try Jason’s homemade sausage gravy made with Bob Evans sausage, a family recipe that he learned to make when he was 13. Or, indulge in Dena’s scrumptious rum custard brioche french toast topped with fresh fruit and

24

raspberry sauce. For lunch, start things out with a serving of the gouda mac and cheese bites, then chow down on a fresh, never frozen, hand-pattied burger, crafted with custom processed beef (made especially for The Local Eatery and D&S Lounge) with a side of hand-cut waffle fries. Or, maybe go for a chicken bacon ranch wrap. Can’t choose? The chicken and waffles, made with handmade liege waffles and served with honey and a side of hot sauce, is perfect any time of day.

Jason and Dena are very proud that The Local Eatery is part of Hillsdale’s flourishing downtown district, and they are thankful to be members of such a supportive community. The encouragement they have received from other local business owners and citizens in Hillsdale has been overwhelming and has given them a positive outlook for the future.

They would like to thank everyone who helped and continues to help make The Local Eatery a success. The City of Hillsdale has been wonderful to work with on this project, too; Dave Mackie, Kelly LoPresto, and Alan Beeker were particularly helpful. All of these things have come together to make The Local Eatery a new downtown staple, and they look forward to seeing you soon!

Stop by The Local Eatery from Tuesday – Sunday, 6 AM- 2 PM, closed Monday.

38 North Howell Street, Hillsdale, MI, 517-610-5650.

The Local Eatery

Only restaurant in town serving fresh ground coffee daily!

Serving fresh (never frozen) hand-patted burgers.

Quality, fresh ingredients

The area’s BEST chicken and waffles!

Home of the rum custard sauce!

Stop by for a great meal and a little conversation!

Tuesday – Sunday, 6 AM- 2 PM, Closed Monday.

38 North Howell Street, Hillsdale • 517-610-5650.

25

TRUST THE EXPERT WITH YOUR HEARING. Over 37 years of helping patients hear.

Call for a FREE Consultation!

Better hearing starts here...

Ask the Doctor:

Nichole Ellis, D.O.

Influenza Keeping your child healthy As this article finds you in the midst of influenza season, I hope everyone is staying healthy. I want to review influenza as well as its prevention and public health safety concerns.

Influenza is commonly confused with “the flu,” a tummy and vomiting and diarrhea illness. Symptoms more accurately are fever, chills, body aches, headaches, and a cough that typically does not produce sputum. This is not the common cold and the symptoms are much more severe. A secondary bacterial infection such as otitis media (ear infection), sepsis (whole body illness), and pneumonia can occur. A majority of people will recover after three to seven days.

Sandra Hepker Participating with most insurances and Care Credit.

517-439-1610

professional-hearing.com 1231 Hudson Road • Hillsdale 26

There are three types of influenza—A, B and C—and thousands of sub-types within those groups. Influenza mutates and shifts genetically even within the same influenza season which means that an individual can have influenza more than once a year.

Influenza is spread easily and is considered respiratory transmission. Respiratory transmission is coughing, sneezing near a person, or close contact with a contaminated surface.

If you have any topic ideas that you would like the doctor to

infants | children | adolescents

We are conveniently located nearby & would be delighted to have your child as our patient.

Occasionally, smaller particles or aerosols can also be a source of transmission. This means surfaces such as doorknobs, sinks, and countertops can be contaminated.

Because children are still learning respiratory and illness etiquette, they have amplified outbreaks, especially in and out of home groups, childcare settings, and in schools.

What is most important is to know that you can be infectious and contagious 24 hours before your onset of symptoms, so at the first signs please remove yourself or child from group settings, school, daycare, or work. This is vital to preventing further outbreaks. Viral shedding (how long someone is contagious) is seven days after onset of infection. I have been told by many that the impression is that once you are fever-free you are no longer contagious and this is NOT correct. Removal from school, work, or daycare for seven days after the onset of illness can be a financial and academic struggle for many families, but it is pivotal in controlling outbreaks within schools and in our community. Isolation during illness, hand washing, and supportive care are the best ways to minimize outbreaks in our area.

The influenza vaccine can reduce your risk of influenza between 40 and 60 percent. This, however, depends on the sub-type of influenza virus. While the influenza vaccine has only 25% protection against H3N2, it has 65% protection against H1N1. Prevention is our best defense.

Nichole Ellis, D.O.

Most Insurances Accepted

187 S Howell St | Hillsdale | (517) 437-5385

Buentello Pest Control Pittsford, MI 49271

Specializing in the control of flying and crawling insects and rodents.

Serving the tri-state area since 1995 Licensed & Insured

Wishing you a safe and healthy winter.

Office - 517-523-3662

discuss, please email them to us at marlanea@simplyhers.net

Donna - 517-673-7211 | Mike - 517-262-2944 27

PHYSICAL THERAPY DIRECT ACCESS:

NO PRESCRIPTION NECESSARY Sue Gruber, PT BROOKLYN FACILITY MANAGER

By: Stephanie Ray, PT, DPT – Hillsdale Facility Manager and Physical Therapist WHAT IS DIRECT ACCESS? Michigan is now a Direct Access state, which means we can initiate physical therapy without a referral or prescription from your physician. This provides you with an immediate physical therapy option, allowing you to start treatment as soon as possible. If you do need to see a specialist, Athletico can help to refer you to the right healthcare professional, ensuring you receive the quality of care you need in a timely manner. Early intervention of physical therapy can eliminate the need for unnecessary medication, surgery, or imaging – including x-rays, MRIs and CT scans.

WILL MY INSURANCE COVER DIRECT ACCESS? Athletico will verify your insurance benefits to determine whether a prescription or referral is required for physical therapy for your specific insurance plan. We recommend that our patients also do the same.

MEDICARE AND DIRECT ACCESS Medicare does not require a prescription or referral to establish the initial evaluation but does require a certified plan of care to be signed and dated within 30 days of the evaluation. Your physical therapist will establish your plan of care and send it to your physician to sign. Athletico will also call your physician and discuss their policy for Direct Access, as your physician may want to see you for an office visit. We can help to facilitate an office visit with your PCP if warranted.

HILLSDALE 16 W Carleton St., Ste. 1 517-439-2376

28

STATISTICS: PATIENTS WHO SEE A PT FOR PAIN BEFORE OTHER TREATMENTS HAVE:* • 89% lower probability of eventually needing an opioid prescription •28% lower probability of having advanced imaging services • 15% lower probability of making one or more ER visits *According to data from Health Services research, 2018.

Recent physical therapy graduates over the past 10 years have their doctorate degrees including differential diagnosis coursework. We are qualified to evaluate and treat a wide variety of orthopedic and neurological conditions including but not limited to muscle and joint pain, sprains and strains, tendinitis, headaches, imbalance, and vertigo.

Stephanie Ray, PT, DPT HILLSDALE FACILITY MANAGER

Brian McEwan, PT ADRIAN FACILITY MANAGER

Come see us first to get back to the things you love!

For more information on Direct Access and to find your closest Athletico location, visit Athletico.com or call the Hillsdale office at 517-439-2376. If your insurance plan does not participate in Direct Access, we also offer free assessments to determine if you are a physical therapy candidate, and/or to help guide you in your medical options.

BROOKLYN 250 S. Main St., Ste. 4 517-592-8695

HUDSON 325 Railroad St. 517-448-2035

Marilyn Rendel, MSPT HUDSON FACILITY MANAGER

ADRIAN 1801 W. Maumee St., Ste. 125 517-264-6141

Additional locations in Dundee, Eaton Rapids, Jackson, Marshall, Clinton, Temperance, and Coldwater.

Visit www.Athletico.com for more info.

Thank you Hillsdale County for choosing us as your #1 Heating & Air Conditioning Service 3 YEARS RUNNING!

Servicing ALL Makes & Models

FREE In-Home Estimates Servicing ALL Makes & Models 1250 E Chicago Rd, Jonesville

517.849.2632

29

TURN THE PAGE Book and Author Reviews

By Nancy Ryan Simply Hers Magazine

A couple of months ago one of my favorite authors, Elizabeth Berg, visited the Hudson Carnegie District Library in Hudson, Michigan. Before she began her presentation, she raved about the beauty of the library and the fact that it was a “Carnegie” library. She pointed out various architectural designs present and said that there were 2,509 Carnegie libraries built between 1883 and 1929 by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, and one of them is located in our own little Hudson, Michigan! Who knew?!

Elizabeth Berg is the author of 30 books and her book Open House was even an Oprah Winfrey Book Club selection. She is a 70-year-old woman who does not look her age. She is lovely and soft-spoken with an easy air about her. She puts on her reading glasses as she reads and then takes them off as she speaks and answers questions. I felt she would be a very relaxing woman to be around and to know. She lives in Oak Park, Illinois. She travels with Gabby, her golden retriever, and Gabby greeted us at the library door. In a past article, I positively reported on Berg’s recent books, namely, The Story of Arthur Truluv, and her sequel, Night of Miracles.

Her latest offerings are her “Happy Books series,” which is a collection of her Facebook posts written over time.

They are entitled Make Someone Happy, Still Happy, and Happy to Be Here. Berg indicated that the series features observations of ordinary life. The reviews I read stated“This series takes you on a ride through life’s ups and downs and reminds you there are friends you have not yet met.” “A poignant, touching and sometimes painful journey.” “They are joyful and heartbreaking reads. She makes your heart dance for joy at the wonder of life. I have begun rereading some of her past books, including Range of Motion (5 stars), Home Safe (5 stars), and currently Never Change (5 stars)—all great books! At her Hudson presentation,

30

Author Elizabeth Berg and Gabby

someone in the audience asked her to list some of her favorite authors. She indicated she enjoyed the works of Alice Munro and Elizabeth Strout’s Arthur Kitteridge.

Her latest book, The Confession Club, is coming out in November. It is a sequel to Night of Miracles, which I reviewed in a previous article and thoroughly enjoyed.

There are different genres out there for a reader to choose from. Mary reads anything author David Baldacci produces. His most recent One Good Deed introduces us to his latest protagonist, Aloysius Archer.

Archer has been released from prison for a crime he did not commit and is trying to exonerate himself. He takes a job as a repo-man. A murder takes place and he realizes that he could land himself right back in prison. With his freedom at risk, he forms a learning relationship with the lead detective on the case to solve the crime.

Fellow reader Kay just finished Brad Meltzer’s The First Conspiracy, The Secret Plot to Kill George Washington. It not only reveals Washington’s character but illuminates the origins of America’s counterintelligence movement that led to the modern-day Central Intelligence Agency.

Kim is reading The Alice Network by Kate Quinn. It is a historical novel set in 1947 and revolves around two women. One is a female spy recruited by the real-life Alice Network in France during WWI, and the other is an unconventional American socialite searching for her cousin. They are brought together in a mesmerizing story of courage and redemption.

What are you reading? Email me at nancyryan47@ gmail.com. See you at the library!

Greener Grass Farms

All Products Are: Non-GMO | No Steroids | No Hormones No Antibiotics

FEED HEALTHY • EAT HEALTHY • BE HEALTHY

Give the Gift of Health and Nutrition this Christmas

BUNDLES AVAILABLE

100% GRASS FED BEEF HIGHER IN: Omega 3 CLA Antioxidants Vitamin A & E

Greener Grass Farms

Feed Healthy • Eat Healthy • Be Healthy

GIFT CARDS

PASTURE RAISED CHICKEN Fed Non-GMO No Soy Feeds, lush pastures and juicy bugs just like nature Intended

Many More Products Available at

www.greenergrassfarms.com Dan 517-425-7049 or

Deb 517-425-7046

PASTURE RAISED PORK

Fed Non-GMO grains and lush pastures Heritage breeds for marbling and flavor

Greener Grass Farms Feed Healthy • Eat Healthy • Be Healthy

31

The LocalBeat WHAT’S N E W W ITH YOU R FAVOR ITE B U S INES S ES

By Melissa McCance

HOSPICE OF HILLSDALE COUNTY Hospice of Hillsdale County will be holding the annual Memorial Christmas Luncheon on Thursday, December 5, at 11:30 am. This event, which will be in the gymnasium of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church (2551 W. Bacon Rd., Hillsdale), is open to all who find themselves struggling with the loss of a loved one as the holidays approach. It doesn’t matter if the bereavement is recent or years ago—this is an opportunity to gather together and shift the focus from grieving to honoring the departed. Beautiful decorations and a lovely meal add to the uplifting atmosphere. There is no charge to attend, but those planning to participate are asked to call the hospice office to ensure an accurate headcount. Phone 517-437-5252 to reserve your place.

WARM THE CHILDREN FUND It’s not too late to donate to the Warm the Children Fund through the Hillsdale County Community Foundation. This program purchases new, warm clothing for children in our county who might otherwise be facing our region’s bitter winter weather without adequate protection. One hundred percent of your donation goes directly to buying the needed clothing. Call the Hillsdale County Community Foundation at 517-4395101 for more information. You can also donate online at www.abouthccf.org.

SHARE THE WARMTH Share the Warmth of Hillsdale County will open its warming center beginning Friday, November 1. The center has a new location this year: Sozo Church at 7 South Manning St. This center offers safe, temporary nighttime shelter for the homeless in Hillsdale County. Besides a warm place to sleep, those utilizing the warming center can have a snack and a light breakfast while they are there. Operating hours will be from 8 pm to 8 am, seven days a week (if staffing allows). Anyone interested in volunteering at the center or who would like to donate funds or appropriate food for snacks and breakfast can contact Executive Director Penny Myers through the Share the Warmth of Hillsdale County Facebook page.

32

This year, skip the electronics and give them more... friends MORE

MORE

Memories

MORE

fun

BOTH EVENTS for $139.00 WINTER FEST

NEW YEARS FEST

February 14-16 Arrive at 6:00 pm Depart at 1:00 pm Cost: $79 (ages 6-12)

December 30 - January 1 Arrive at 1:00 pm Depart at 1:00 pm Cost: $79 (ages 6-12)

Join us as we bring in the New Year in style.

We will climb Goliath, ride the Giant Swing, and make your own pizza!

• Ride the Giant Swing • Climb Goliath • Sledding • Create awesome crafts • Silly Skits • Games • Campfire Songs • Make Smores • Make snow sculptures • Snow carnivals

• Make your own pizza • Ping Pong • Foosball • Snow Ball Games • Ice Hockey • Make Friends • Make Memories

Enjoy a fun filled weekend at Kimball Camp.

We will go sledding, climb Goliath, ride the Giant Swing, and play fun games.

EDUCATIONAL DAY PROGRAMS FOR SCHOOLS : GRADES K - 8 TRADITIONAL THANKSGIVING

Teaches the history of the Pilgrims

INTERNATIONAL CHRISTMAS

Teaches the history of Christmas traditions.

WESTERN CHRISTMAS

GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE

Students play games from the “wild west”, make a craft and even go on a hay ride.

Contact for Reservations

Kimball Camp YMCA

4502 Berlin Drive | Reading | 517-283-2168

517-283-2168 office@kimballcamp.com | www.kimballcamp.com download a full brochure at www.kimballcamp.com

33

MANY ROSES among the thorns for 2019

With the end of 2019 fast approaching, it’s pretty typical to think back on the year and evaluate how it went.

GRAY MATTERS

By Sarah Gray Simply Hers Magazine

In many ways, 2019 was a typical year for me.

Kids in school, activities kept us busy in the evenings, much like in years past. In other ways, however, 2019 will stand out as a year of some unique and important events.

As I mentioned in my column back in January, this year I turned 40. While I wasn’t scared or sad to be hitting this big number, I did look at it as an opportunity. An opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and try some new things, which turned out to be a good distraction from my birthday that kind of came and went quietly.

One of the new things I decided to try was running a half marathon. I have been running for most of my life, but have never raced more than a 5K. In the last few years I have tried to increase my stamina a bit and have made my “long run” days five miles. So, to decide to run 13.1 miles was pretty scary to me. But, I was bound and determined. My amazing sister gave me a 12-week running plan to prepare me and I slowly watched the miles increase. There were many mornings I got up before the sun to avoid the heat and I had a small injury set-back about two weeks before the race, but thankfully I was able to recover quickly.

Then, bright and early on a sunny Saturday morning in August, with Jeff and the kids cheering me on, I ran 13.1 miles. I honestly could not stop smiling through the whole race!

It really goes to show that if you train and put in the effort, you will be successful. It is one of my greatest joys and biggest accomplishments of 2019.

34

But, the year has not been all roses. I have had disappointments and set-backs both professionally and personally. I have been discouraged, let down, and passed over. I have been exhausted mentally and physically.

Thankfully, my husband and children have helped to lift me up and out of those dark days.

And, I know my blessings far outweigh my hardships. This year has not only been a momentous one for me but for my family as well. In 2019, my oldest took her first big trip without us, traveling to Washington D.C. with her school. My son was bitten by the acting bug and graced The Sauk stage for the first time in Lord of the Flies, and my youngest was blessed to receive two sacraments in the church.

As a family, we had a wonderful family vacation up north – filled with memories I will cherish always. We read books together, played baseball together, and sat around our new fire pit eating s’mores and making up ridiculous stories.

Yes, 2019 has been more roses than thorns.

There is still some time left this year to accomplish a few more of my goals, and the success I have had so far this year should give me the motivation to see them through.

I’m sure, as we roll into the New Year, there will be lots of talk about having a “clear focus” or “clear vision” for 2020. My eyesight has always been a little fuzzy because my laser focus seemed to be on 2019. But, I guess I still have time to come up with a vision for 2020.

However, it most likely will NOT be a marathon.

IT’S ABOUT LIVING YOUR BEST LIFE AT DREWS PLACE

ASSISTED LIVING FOR SENIORS

DREWS COUNTRY LIVING 517-437-0239 | www.drewsplaceal.com 1127 N. Lake Pleasant Road Hillsdale

SENIOR HOMECARE SERVICES INCLUDE: Bathing, Dressing, Grooming, Walking, Medication Reminders, Errands, Shopping, Light Housekeeping, Meal Preparation, Exercise, Friendly Companionship & Respite Serving Lenawee, Hillsdale & Jackson Counties

Veteran Owned & Operated You Select Your Caregiver Individually Customized Care Plans Available When You Are – 24/7 Authorized Veterans Affairs (VA) Provider Accepting Long Term Care Insurance 235 N. Main St. Adrian (517) 920.4254

WWW.VISITINGANGELS.COM 35

3 boys and a TRANSPLANT

By Alicia Curtis, Simply Hers Magazine

PRAY. WAIT. PRAY, PRAY,PRAY.

The day had finally come, the day that my sweet little boy would get a second chance at life. and I took turns loving and bouncing and telling him how strong he was. I danced with him. I wanted one dance in case I never got the honor to dance with him on his wedding day. It’s a moment I will forever cherish, and a moment I hope to recreate when he is a healthy adult on the best day of his life.

J

anuary 28 was destined to be a special day. It was my grandma’s 80th birthday and the day Oscar would be receiving his second chance at life. Prepping him for surgery was all so surreal. We found out around 3:00 in the afternoon that Oscar would be receiving his liver. Surgery did not start until about 10:30 that night. During that time, people were in and out of his room and prepping him in many different ways. We were able to contact family members and arranged for our other two boys to come see Oscar in case it was their last chance.

Emotions were high, and the stress was mounting.

I kept waiting for someone to come in and tell me that it was all a dream, yet it all seemed very much a reality. The pastor of our church came to the hospital and said many prayers with him. Then, it was time to wait with just us three for a little bit. We watched The Polar Express with Oscar. He loved the trains, and it kept him busy for a little bit since he hadn’t been able to eat in so long. When that didn’t work, his dad

36

When the time came for him to go back, what seemed like a million doctors and nurses came to greet us, and I simply couldn’t let him go. I broke. I refused to let go of him. All of these strangers just stared at me as I death gripped my son and would not let anyone take him. I couldn’t lose him, and I felt like the second they took him from my arms it would be the last time I would get to be with him.

Eventually, I let go. To this day, it’s the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do in my life.

Oscar started surgery and was doing incredibly well. I kept that awful hospital phone in my hands like it was my only lifeline. Every call or text made me stop breathing. Hours went by and I finally received the call that Oscar had made it through surgery and everything looked good. I instantly needed to be with him. Surgery had lasted about 10 hours. I saw him and couldn’t believe how his belly looked. We could see his rib cage for the first time ever. His belly looked like a normal baby. I’ve never been more grateful to see an innie belly button.

The first few hours after transplant are very critical. He received around-the-clock care, eyes were on him every second. A couple

I had said goodbye to my world three different times and I had simply lost hope

of hours after his surgery, a team came in to do an ultrasound. This checks on the main arteries that lead into the liver. If there are any blockages, the new liver could die, and things would turn into a dire emergency. I remember looking at the ultrasound tech’s face and knowing that everything was not okay. One of the veins had clotted off, and he was losing blood supply to his brand new liver.

Things started happening really fast at this point. He was instantly being prepped to go back into surgery. As they took my baby from me a second time, I was hopeless. I had no faith that they could open up this sick baby a second time to try and save him. After six and a half hours of waiting, they did just that. At this point, Oscar’s little belly was so swollen and puffy. He looked miserable, but peaceful at the same time as machines kept him alive.

By now, we had not slept for two straight days, but we kept fighting.

We had as much fight as Oscar had. Two hours after being opened up for the second time, they discovered a bleed in Oscar. This would mean that they would have to take him back into surgery. At this point, my hope was gone, my faith was gone, and I was sure we would lose him. “A child died for this? So two children could die?” I couldn’t help thinking this over and over again. When they wheeled him out of the room one more time, I collapsed. I couldn’t do it anymore. I had said goodbye to my world three different times and I had simply lost hope. Yet, in true Oscar fashion, another four and a half hour surgery was what was needed to get the job done. He fought, and he won.

A mere 13 days after having his body opened up and his liver taken out on three different occasions, he came home to us. He came home and he never had another hospital stay. After eight months— and overall two years—13 days was all he needed. Oscar is one of the happiest, kindest, most thoughtful, loving human beings I’ve ever encountered. I can’t wait to continue his story on how he has changed the world.

37

HOW DOES AN IRA FIT INTO YOUR ESTATE PLAN?

By Timothy Dixon Simply Hers Magazine

Timothy E. Dixon Licensed Michigan Attorney Law Office of Timothy E. Dixon 27 N. Broad St. Hillsdale, MI 49242 Ph: (517) 437-4070 Fx: (517) 437-4062

38

When you think of IRAs, you probably think of retirement. But what happens to your IRA money after you’re gone? The answer depends on how you go about creating your estate plan and selecting beneficiaries, and you might be surprised to find out that your money could end up with the wrong people or cause an unexpected tax bill if you don’t take action ahead of time.

What your IRA means for your estate plan Individual retirement accounts (IRAs) are often one of the biggest financial accounts you invest in over the course of your lifetime. When you’re working on your trust, will, and other documents contained in your estate plan, you have to consider all the “big stuff” like your IRA, your house, and your small business, to name a few; however, IRAs have limited lifetime planning opportunities.

Common IRA mistakes One of the most common mistakes people make is letting their IRA beneficiary forms become out of date after a divorce, the birth of a child or grandchild, or another major life event that would alter their choice of beneficiary.

Another misstep to avoid is naming your own estate as the beneficiary of your IRA. If you name a beneficiary such as your spouse or child, they’ll be in the position to make that money grow into even more wealth over time by using the so-called “stretch out” feature of these accounts. If your own estate is the beneficiary, the money will be passed onto your loved ones in as little as five years (and possibly even faster), resulting in greatly accelerated (and often higher) taxation and a halt to the IRA’s potential growth over time.

If you decide to leave your IRA to your minor children, you can cause a less-than-ideal situation by forgetting to appoint a guardian to oversee the IRA until your kids are old enough to inherit the IRA. Without a guardian, IRAs left to underage children may end up going to exes or other people with whom you might not wish to share your wealth. Better than a guardian, you can create an IRA trust to receive the IRA distributions, providing long-term financial support for your children or grandchildren and protection against others you don’t want to be involved in your children’s inheritance.

Turning even a modest IRA into a huge advantage for your family One way to make the most of an inherited IRA is to take a stretch-out approach. This strategy lets your beneficiary stretch the length of time over which they’ll be collecting money from the IRA, giving it more time to accrue growth without income taxes eating away at it. When this is paired with a retirement trust, the result can be a huge advantage even if your IRA is only a modest amount.

Even though passing your IRA to your spouse or onto the next generation may seem relatively straightforward, there are plenty of pitfalls along the way, so the guidance of an expert should be sought.

The weather outside is frightful...

But inside is so delightful.

Hillsdale Academy A Private Classical K-12 School ROOTED IN TRADITION PURSUING TRUTH CULTIVATING VIRTUE & WISDOM

Call today to schedule a tour. Currently accepting applications for 2020-21.

PLUMBING - HEATING - AIR CONDITIONING

517-437-4259

1401 VERA DR. • HILLSDALE, MI 49242

Law Office of TimOThy E. DixOn

(517) 439-8644 academy.hillsdale.edu One Academy Lane Hillsdale, MI 49242

Business Formation and Law Real Estate Wills and Trust Probate

ATTORnEy LAuRA RAhE FAmiLy LAW (517) 437-4070 | 27 N. Broad St. | Hillsdale, MI 49242 39

stuff You May Not Know About ...

By Sarah Gray

Southern Michigan is home to many fascinating and accomplished women. Throughout the years, women from our area have done and continue to do amazing things without thought of recognition or praise. One such woman, Laura Smith Haviland, changed the lives of hundreds of people while risking her own life in the process.

Laura Smith Haviland was born December 20, 1808, in Ontario, Canada, to American parents who immigrated shortly before her birth.

Her parents were farmers and members of the Quakers which gave Laura some unique opportunities not always given to females during that time. When she was about seven years old, her family moved to western New York. During her youth, Laura received education equal that to boys and was an avid reader and excellent speller.

Laura Smith Haviland AN IMPORTANT FIGURE IN THE HISTORY OF THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD. 40

She married her husband Charles when she was just sixteen in 1825.

In 1829, she and her growing family moved to Raisin Township near Adrian. There she met Elizabeth Montgomery Chandler, and the two families quickly became friends. The Chandlers were a progressive family deeply involved the anti-slavery movement. Laura and Elizabeth, together with other women in the area, founded the Logan Female Anti-Slavery Society in 1832. It was the first anti-slavery organization in Michigan.

Following Elizabeth’s Laura and untimely death and the tragic death of her husband her husband and several children to erysipelas (a skin infection), opened the Laura became even more Raisin Institute... focused on the abolitionist cause. During the 1830s, the first raciallythe Haviland family began integrated school hiding runaway slaves in their home and they became in Michigan. the first Underground Railroad station in Michigan.

After her husband’s death, she continued to take in runaway slaves sometimes escorting them herself to Canada. Laura also traveled south to help free slaves. She was so successful in aiding slaves to safety that southern slave owners placed a $3,000 reward on her head.

A STATUE OF LAURA SMITH HAVILAND GRACES THE LAWN OF ADRIAN CITY HALL. Laura worked tirelessly with other abolitionists guiding slaves north so they could live normal lives. Her life-long pursuit of freedom for all led Haviland, Kansas, to be named after her. She has also been mentioned in various abolitionist diaries and books which describe her significant efforts in the movement.

Along with her work to abolish slavery, Laura also had many concerns about the disadvantages of women. She was an outspoken supporter of the women’s suffrage movement and a leader in the Woman’s Christian Temperance Union in Michigan. Before his death, Laura and her husband also opened what was later known as the Raisin Institute. The school was open to all children regardless of race, creed, or sex and was the first racially-integrated school in Michigan.

Laura Haviland died in 1898 in Grand Rapids and is buried next to her husband Charles in Raisin Valley Cemetery in Adrian. The Laura Smith Haviland Elementary School in Waterford is named after her. She was inducted into the Michigan Women’s Hall of Fame in 1983 and the National Abolition Hall of Fame and Museum in 2018.

41

Keeping It in Stitches A Gift of Gift Giving

By Diane K Clow Sewist and Long Arm Quilter Eversew Quilted

Weirdly, Halloween is one of my favorite holidays.

Buying massive quantities of candy bars, stocking up for the Big Night, and then purchasing an additional supply as we tend to eat the stockpile leading up to the Big Night. I love to stand on the front porch and hand out candy to the little trick-or-treaters. All three to four hundred of them on our busy little hometown street. It’s the gift of giving.

Then, Thanksgiving rolls around, and, to be honest, Thanksgiving is probably my least favorite holiday. It even follows Groundhog Day in my book. Although I really like to cook, the traditional Thanksgiving menu is not a favorite. My family isn’t even fans of turkey. But yet, there we are, fixing this massive meal, cleaning up every dish we own and going into a comatose state afterward. The one redeeming quality is—there’s pumpkin pie. It’s the gift of giving. Thanksgiving, that is.

Birthdays can be a great time to do some serious gifting. The best gifts are those that cost much thoughtful consideration. In anticipation of my 60th birthday, I made a request to each of my three grown children to make a list of the best memories they had of growing up. One memory for each of the years of their ages: 30, 27, and 25 respectively at the time. Then on my birthday, we read them aloud. It was wonderful! Some of the memories were the same for each of the three, like when we took a vacation up north and stayed in a rustic resort on Lake Michigan. No TV or air conditioning. Just board games, outdoor ping pong tables, and The Lake. The memory lists were some of the best gifts I’ve ever received.

42

This year we had Easter with a twist. Instead of the traditional egg hunt, I made a gift ball using plastic wrap, that was rolled up and encased candy, gift cards, scented wax melts, you name it. Numbers were assigned and dice rolled. If you rolled your number or doubles, you got to unroll the ball until you got a “gift”. This was a lot of fun and included friendly bargaining over the gift cards, as well as who had to take the marshmallow Peeps.

Christmas is, of course, the traditional time of gifting. Although the season has a much higher meaning, it is a time when we have the common thought of giving to others. I’ve heard of mature couples who feel they have no need for additional material things, so they shop for toys and warm clothing to gift to children in need. Many will seek out the Red Kettles, donate coats, and/or add a toy to the firemen’s collection drive. You will find Angel Trees where a gift can make a child’s Christmas much brighter. The opportunities are endless to practice the gift of gift-giving.

Holidays provide the greatest gift, creating a reason for friends and family to gather. Having family home is a gift in itself. Even Thanksgiving.

Even if it involves turkey.

May your holiday season be bright and full of the gift of giving. Keeping it in Stitches wishes you the best, the brightest and Happiest of Holidays.

Eversew Quilted

Quality is not in the name, but in the workmanship

Custom Quilting Service - Your Quilt Vision Partner

D I A N E C LO W 311 Maumee St. • Jonesville 517.849.2674 or 517.554.0305

longarm quilting & binding service available

do the holidays your way!

517-283-3584 • 800-934-2500 asphalt paving Asphalt Repair • Milling Asphalt Curbing • Crack Repair RAW • MEDITERRANEAN • NO SUGAR • VEGAN VEGETARIAN • LOW CARB • KETO • PALEO

Infrared Repair • Resurfacing Seal Coating • Line Striping

Located downtown Hillsdale, we have the organic foods you love! With new products coming in and sale items at the ready, you’re bound to find what you need!

You do not have to be a member to shop our fine store!

EVERYONE IS WELCOME. GIFT CERTIFICATES • STOCKING STUFFERS Mon-Friday • 9 - 6 | Sat • 9 - 5 | Closed Sun. 517.439.1397 | 31 N Broad St | Hillsdale | hillsdalenaturalgrocery.com

5th Annual CAPA Children’s Charity Ball

SAVE THE DATE — FEB. 15, 2020 HILLSDALE COLLEGE SEARLE CENTER

This year’s theme...

HOLLYWOOD!

FULLY INSURED • FREE ESTIMATES serving most of southern michigan northwest ohio & northeast indiana family owned & operated www.belsonasphaltpaving.com belsonasphalt@core.com COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL • RESIDENTIAL

TICKETS

$60/EA. OR 2/$100 capahillsdale.net • 517.437.3100

5651 BANkERS RD • READINg 43

Small Business Saturday is November 30th this year from 10 am to 4 pm in historic downtown Hillsdale. Stroll through unique boutiques, eateries, and coffehouses to kick off the Christmas Season. Enjoy refreshments, sale promotions, live music, door prizes, and more!

The Hillsdale College Music Department presents Amahl and the Night Visitors performed by Hillsdale College voice students and directed by Melissa Osmond and Debbi Wyse. Menotti’s classic Christmas operetta will be performed in the McNamara Rehearsal Hall from Thursday, December 5, to Saturday, December 7. Nightly show times are 7:30 p.m. with a 2 p.m. matinee on Saturday. Admission is free but tickets are required. Contact the box office to reserve your tickets: 517-607-2848 or via email boxoffice@hillsdale.edu.

As the Tower Dancers continue to grow and develop, so does their production season!

Director of Dance Holly Hobbs and the Tower Dancers showcase works performed and choreographed by faculty, guest artists, and students. The performance will take place on Saturday, December 7 at 8pm in the Markel Auditorium. Admission is free and tickets are not required.

44

The Hillsdale Wind Symphony presents its final concert of 2019 on Friday, December 13th. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. in the Markel Auditorium and will feature old and new wind band music as well as Christmas music. Admission is free and tickets are not required.

The Light Parade and Golden Sleigh Scavenger Hunt is on Dec. 7th in downtown Hillsdale. The scavenger hunt will be from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. with golden sleighs in over 30 downtown businesses. The parade will be that evening beginning at 6:15 p.m.

HUB is hosting the 6th Annual Xmas Market – Sat, Dec. 7th from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Small Town Sweet Boutique — Paw Patrol Christmas Dec 6&7 And Grinchmas (yes, Grinch) Dec 13&14. More info on website smalltownsweetboutique.com

Christmas at the Poorhouse Join us for Christmas with period decorations, snacks and entertainment on Saturday, Dec. 7, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 8, from 1-5 p.m. On Saturday from 2-4 p.m.

There will be rides in a covered wagon if the ground is solid. Sunday from 2-4 p.m.

Santa will visit the General Store. All weekend the General Store will be open with delicious baked goods and homemade crafts for sale.

City of Hillsdale New Years Eve Bash at the Hillsdale County Fairgrounds. Lots of activities for the whole family starting at 6 p.m. and finishing up with a fireworks display at midnigt. Activities include: Skating Rink – 6-9pm, DJ – 9pm to midnight, Kids activities – 6-9pm, Horse & Carriage rides – 8-11 pm, Caricature Drawings/Face Painting – 8-11 pm and Edwin the Penguin drop and fireworks at midnight.

3000 State Road, Hillsdale • 517-437-3773 www.sprattshobbycenter.com

eFlH2400

PLANES • CARS • TRUCKS • COPTERS • PARTS • FUELS • SERVICE

Where RC junkies come

Where RC junkies come to get their FIX!

to get their FIX! MINI APPRENTICE #HBZ3100

249⁹⁹

$

Thank you for Another Great Year!

STAMPEDE #36054-1

199⁹⁹

$

TYPHOON MEGA #ARA102694

219⁹⁹

$

HOBBY CENTER 3000 State Road, Hillsdale • 517-437-3773 www.sprattshobbycenter.com

Gift Certificates Are Available!

Viaggio

SALON & SPA

nkies come to get their FIX! TREVATHAN'S

2370 Hudson Rd. , Hillsdale • (517)610-5869

ChristmasNights

r SWEEP & SEW SHOPPE r

Lingerie Sets

Janome Great Gifts Sale Oct. 1 - Dec. 31 Black Friday Sale - Nov. 29 Small Business Saturday Sale - Nov. 30 Financing Available Gift Certificates Available.

Great gift ideas for the Holidays.

Visit our web page to see all that is happening!

Perfect FIT. Perfect PRICE

BRAS THAT FIT

FABRIC - FABRIC - FABRIC - FABRIC Trevathans.com VARIETY OF FREE CLASSES AVAILABLE Tues. - Sat. 10 am-5 pm (Closed Sun. & Mon.) • (517) 437-5555 • 47 N Broad St. Hillsdale

Toasted Mud

Mindy Shoemaker

Mon-Fri 10 am-6 pm • Sat 10 am -3 pm 4114 Page Ave • Michigan Center 800-796-0977 | www.brasthatfit.net

TOAST TO CANVAS 6 PM ON:

November 5th November 19th December 3rd December 17th

517.439.1677 • 74 N. Howell St • Hillsdale Sat, Mon, Tue • 10 AM - 6 PM | Wed, Thu, Fri • 10 AM - 9 PM | Sun • 12 - 6 PM

Kids Canvas during Christmas break — Call for more info — 45

City Pages Jonesville

Jonesville isGetting Ready...

THE CITY OF

T H E Y ’ R E D R E S S I N G I N H O L I D AY G E A R A N D

, W E L C O M I N G E V E R Y O N E T O H O L I D AY F U N !

You won’t want to miss anything that’s happening during the big weekend of Friday, December 6, through Sunday, December 8!

Santa will help start the season in style when he arrives at Carl Fast Park on a firetruck! The jolly old elf will be there from 5:30 pm until about 6:45 pm. If you can’t be there Friday night, Santa has another visit scheduled for that Saturday from noon to 2 pm at the Jonesville Library. The official tree lighting is set for 6 pm and the holiday spirit will shine as members of the Sauk Theatre sing Christmas songs. The Jonesville High School band has been asked to play as well. Downtown businesses stay open during the tree lighting, so plan to stop in while you’re there!

There will be no shortage of seasonal decorations in Jonesville’s downtown. Fourth-grade students from Williams Elementary School are making luminaries for display throughout the park, and the downtown Christmas trees will be decorated by the first-grade students. The downtown businesses will be decorating their windows, and patrons can vote for the display they like best.

46

For a classic Christmas story that all ages can enjoy, that weekend sees the opening of The Sauk’s production of “A Christmas Carol,” running December 5-7 and 12-14 at 8 p.m. as well as December 8 and 15 at 3 p.m. Don’t miss your chance to see Ebenezer Scrooge—the original Grinch—be transformed by visits from three Christmas spirits.

The Grosvenor House Museum hosts the annual Christmas open house on December 7-8 and 14-15. Enjoy the beautifully-decorated Italianate home that truly comes into its own every holiday season.

Tickets are $5 per person or $10 for a family.

One special addition this year is the inaugural Lights of Love event hosted by the Lions Club. The trees are $100 and can be purchased by any individual, family, business, or organization. They can be in memory of a loved one, to honor someone, or just for fun. The Lights of Love trees are currently on sale, and the Lions Club is hosting a total of 50 trees to be decorated with white lights and a red bow. Each tree will also be adorned with the name of the honoree, business, or donor and will be placed along the diagonal sidewalk in Carl Fast Park.

To sponsor a tree, see any Jonesville Lions Club member or contact Don or Tracy at County National Bank in Jonesville.

JOIN US FOR YOUR HOLIDAY CHEERS!

ROAD HOUSE US12 • Jonesville • 517.849.2120

BRETTY’S Spirit!

Capture the Christmas Come see our fine Selection of..

• Americana • Santas / Snowmen • Feather Trees • Primitives

• Pottery • Lodge Look Handwoven Throws • Gourmet Foods

• Interior / Exterior Lighting • Prints • Soaps / Lotions • & Much More!

Our Sincerest Thanks and Best Wishes for a Happy Holiday Season and a New Year filled with Peace, Joy and Success Locally Owned

Join us on Dec. 6th & 7th for our

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK AND OUR WEBSITE FOR UPCOMING SALES AND EVENTS Mon - Sat • 10-5 | Sun 12-4 2971 E. Sterling • Jonesville • 4 Miles E. of Jonesville on US-12 • 517.849.2477 • Brettys.com

d, Thurs, 9-5 9-6

2 Locations To Better Serve Your Needs!

Jonesville

490 Olds Street - (517) 849-7500 M- F • 7-7 | Sat. 8-5 | Sun. 9 - 5

Hillsdale

30 Union Street - (517) 437-4465 M- F • 7-7 & Sat. 8-4

Order Online @ www.autoparts2020.com

Your floors deserve to dress up for the Holidays — Stop by today to see the LATEST FASHIONS!

Serving the area for more than 40 years.

COUNTRY CARPETS Mon, Wed, Thu • 9-5 | Tues, Fri • 9-6 | Sat • 9-2

394 W. Chicago • Jonesville • 517-995-5070 47

48

CR Cars, LLC CR Deals

Decking halls t h e

beautifully since 1918

FINANCING FOR EVERYONE Dedicated to finding you the BEST cars at the BEST deals!

869 E. Chicago Rd • Quincy crcarllc@gmail.com 517-607-9237 or 517-932-8602 www.crcar.deals

Holiday pies - ready to bake at Home!

Christmas trees • Gift Baskets Christmas DeCorations Poinsettias • fudGe & more selection of craft beer & wine ~ coldwater location only.

Glei’s

hillsdale 3500 milnes rd.

(517)437-4495

Orchard GreenhOuse Farm market Bakery

www.gleisinc.com

cOldwater 464 n. willowbrook (517)278-1400

Visit us on Facebook

Take a horse drawn wagon To selecT your perfecT holiday Tree.

Warm up by the fire Sip hot chocolate, mulled cider or coffee Taste Amish candy & homemade kettle corn

Meet Santa at the farM

and have your picture taken with him.

Santa visit — Nov 23-25, Dec 1-2, Dec 8-9

Visit The Berry Patch Gift Shop for Amazing Christmas Treasures!

165 S. Ray-Quincy Rd • Quincy • 517-639-8360 www.loveberrystreefarm.com

open the day after thanksgiving until december 23.

Tues - Fri • NooN - 5:30 saT & suN • 10aM - 5:30pM closed mondays 49

50

Santa’s Secret!

GOT A

A non-invasive approach to eliminating unwanted fat cells.

CHIMNEY

Going Down the

Just got a whole lot easier!

Look Great for the Holidays WITHOUT SURGERY or DOWNTIME in as little as 35 minutes!

CALL OR STOP IN TODAY TO SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION.

Family Practice &

Orthopedic Care Center, PC Yanni Chen, DO, & Richard J. Hartman, Jr. DO, FAOAO

410 N. Willowbrook Rd. • Coldwater • 517.279.9599

51

tF u ut Fiirr B B

sstt

T ea MUST HAVE TILTON

Boots

for Fall

52

Shop: M-Su 11-5 ● Tea Room: F-Su 11-4 M-F: Shop 10-5, 3-4:30 ● Tecumseh 112 E. Chicago Blvd.Tea S: Shop 10-5:30, Tea 3-5 ● Su: Shop 11-4 517.423.7873 112 E. Chicago Blvd. ● Tecumseh 517.423.7873

Lunch Daily 11-3 11-3 Gifts LooseLunch Teas Daily Desserts Loose Teas Desserts Gifts

John Latini | Legends of MI Comedy | NY, NY Dueling Pianos | Le Cirque Esprit | Phase 5

Nov. 2 | 7:30 pm Jan. 25 | 7:30 pm Feb. 15 | 7:30 pm

March 7 | 4 pm

April 25 | 7:30 pm

2019-20 National Touring Season 400 N. Maumee St. Tecumseh, MI| 517.423.6617 | www.TheTCA.org 53

City Pages Manitou Beach

The Thanksgiving/Christmas and New Year’s holidays are always a special time of year. In Manitou Beach Village, there is always an event to celebrate the changing seasons.

Don’t miss Nov 30 which is Small Business Saturday. In an effort to support local shops that make our communities strong, we encourage you to shop small. You’re shopping small every time you pick up a coffee at the corner shop, grab lunch at a local spot, or buy a new bag from your neighborhood boutique. It’s all about the experience, finding those special and unique items, enjoying a meal with family at the local restaurant, or sharing a hot cup of latte with a friend. This holiday season, shop small and support your local community.

As Brooklyn Irish Hills Chamber members, Manitou Beach Village participates in Holidays in the Hills –Irish Hills, that is. Christmas in the Village begins Friday night. We will have a tree lighting at 7 pm next to the Lighthouse which will include the Santa Lucia girls. Afterward, be sure to head across the street to Two Lakes Tavern. The businesses in Manitou Beach Village will be offering a variety of specials throughout the weekend, and you won’t want to miss a visit with Santa on Sunday from 11 am to 2 pm.

If you are looking for a weekend getaway, be sure to check out the Devils Lake Inn located in the heart 54

of Manitou Beach Village and enjoy one of the three beautiful Michigan-themed rooms. Also opening soon is an additional three-room inn called the Manitou Beach Inn located on Walnut Street. Watch our village Facebook page and website for the opening date.

For more information about our year-round events, visit our village Facebook page or our website at: https://www.manitoubeachmichigan.com/

Bring the Holidays

Home!

Holiday Festivities at

Hidden Lake Gardens Saturday, December 7 from 4-8 p.m. p,m.

Holiday Festival

AppArel Jewelry purses And BAgs Customized pAintings BAth And Body gourmet Food items dinnerwAre CAndles BABy giFts And more!

Live musical entertainment Create crafts from nature for children Visit with Santa Claus Observe lighted plant displays in the Conservatory Gift shop items for nature lovers Over 2,000 candle-lit luminaries Enjoy refreshments $7 per person/free for HLG Members ($25 max per vehicle)

FREE GIFT WRAP

Open Year R ound

December 8, 14, & 15 from 5 – 8 p.m.

Evening of Lights

Over 2,000 candle-lit luminaries Gift Shop and Conservatory open till 8 p.m. $5 per person/free for HLG Members

Distinctive gifts for your home and your lifestyle!

devilslakeviewliving.com

517.252.5287 | 200 Devils Lake Hwy | Manitou Beach

Boot Jack Tavern

LIVE MUSIC

6214 W. Monroe Road Tipton, MI 49287

For more information please call (517)431-2060 or visit our website at www.hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu Michigan State University is committed to providing equal opportunity for participation in all programs, services, and activities. Accommodations for persons with disabilities may be requested by contacting Cheryl Roe at 517-431-2060 or roe2@msu.edu. Requests must be made at least 3 weeks in advance of program and will be honored whenever possible.

Perfect entertainment for any occasion!

WATERSPORT RENTALS

Pontoon Boats Fishing Boats Ski Boats Aqua Lily Pad 2 Person Tube Paddle Boards

Kayaks Bicycles Clear Kayaks Retail Options Jet Skis And more!

Rob & Paula Saganek Owners

Michigan Craft Brews On Tap!

Paula’s Poop Deck

Swimwear & Apparel

735 Manitou Rd. | Manitou Beach, MI | 517.252.5475

BOOTJACKTAVERN.COM

STAY CONNECTED @bootjacktavern

Full line of women’s bathing suits, cover-ups & men’s board shorts & summer accessories

762 Manitou Rd., Manitou Beach • 517-673-3620 • robs-rentals.com

55

Spectacular

CHRISTMAS Extravaganza

DEC 6 • 5-8 PM OPEN HOUSES AT: Mon Amour Salon United Way of Monroe/ Lenawee Counties Yarn Hoppers Hang Loose Boutique & Hair Salon Farmers Insurance Loveland Agency Goodwill’s- Blue Boutique

FREE PHOTO WITH SANTA at My Cousin Vinny’s courtesy of Crea8ive Clicks Photography

FREE HOT CHOCOLATE at Downtown Dempsey’s Good Eats, Sweet Treats

FACE PAINTING with Make N Faces

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS & MUSIC Vote for your favorite Christmas tree when you play the game to

WIN YOUR OWN GRAND PRIZE! GalleryofShopsAdrian.com 136 East Maumee St. Adrian 56

written By: ANN HUGHES

T

Christmas in Adrian

he holidays are upon us and the streets of downtown Adrian will soon be aglow with twinkling lights, greenery festooned with ribbons, the sounds of holiday music, and stores filled with gifts for the friends and family on your lists!

Special events provide the opportunity to pick up the perfect gift in the local stores located downtown: the annual Holiday Open House will kick off on December 6 with First Friday festivities and run through December 7. It will be highlighted with store specials, a food drive, and, of course, Santa.

The Holiday Light Parade will take place just as the city welcomes dusk and will culminate with the annual Comstock Christmas Riverwalk tree lighting. More than 30 trees are adopted by area organizations and displayed until after the New Year for all to enjoy. The Light Parade and the tree lighting happen on the evening of December 6. The Lenawee County Historical Museum will feature its popular tree display as well.

The historic Croswell Opera House and the Adrian Symphony Orchestra are proud to call Adrian home and each will feature holiday entertainment. The ASO is planning a Tchaikovsky Festival on Sunday, November 10, at 3:00 pm in Dawson Auditorium on the campus of Adrian

College. Concert highlights include his Piano Concerto No. 1 and Symphony No. 6 “Pathetique.”

The ASO will showcase holiday tunes with area choirs on Saturday, December 14, at 8:00 PM. Log onto www.adriansymphony.org for details and to purchase tickets.

Everyone’s favorite Man Band is back at the Croswell. Under the Streetlamp delivers an electrifying evening of classic hits from the American Radio Songbook, bringing their unique blend of tight harmonies and slick dance moves to your favorite doo-wop, Motown and old-time rock ‘n’ roll hits. This not-to-be-missed concert takes place at the Croswell in downtown Adrian on Saturday, December 21, at 7:30 in the evening.

The Croswell wraps up its holiday season with the hilarious fish-out-of-water comedy, “Elf, the Musical.” Based on the movie of the same name, this feel-good holiday tale will delight the whole family and runs from November 22nd through December 8. To purchase Croswell tickets, log on to https://croswell.org .

Barrett’s Flower Shop

1033 W. Beecher St., Adrian, MI | 517-265-5595 or 800-748-0279 BarrettsFlowerAndGardens.com | BarrettsFlowerShop@yahoo.com

Celebrate the Season

MOST REQUESTED HOLIDAY GIFTS • Ann’s By Design Gift Card • Perfect Scissors Set – 3 pcs. + a $20 Gift Card and Project Bag • Beginning Knitting and Crochet Kits

118 W. Maumee St. Adrian MI 49221 517-438-8459 ann@annsbydesign.com

We specialize in creating extraordinary holiday arrangements that capture the mood and beauty of the season. Contact us today!

Ask about our current promotions!

From a HOLE in your roof to a WHOLE new roof!

3270 Ogden Hwy • Adrian brownandsonsroofingsiding.com

YOUR

ROOF

NEEDS PROTECTION

• Roofing/ Siding • Roof Tune-ups • Guaranteed Workmanship • Residential/Commercial • Licensed and Insured • Financing available

We know that your home is one of your largest investments and your roof is one of the best ways to protect it.

FREE ESTImaTES!

517-263-6851

57

58

Holiday Holiday wishes. wishes.

Jason Adcock CPCU CLU FLMI, Agent May the magic of the season Jason May the magic of the season 32 Adcock S HowellCPCU StreetCLU FLMI, Agent bring you peace, love and joy.

32 SHillsdale, Howell Street MI 49242 bring you peace, love and joy.

Hillsdale, MI 49242 Bus: 517-437-3364 Happy Holidays to an Bus:jason@jasonsffamily.com 517-437-3364 Happy Holidays to an jason@jasonsffamily.com incredible community!

incredible community!

Laura R. Nevins, E.A. Laura R. Nevins is a graduate of Baker College with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree emphasizing accounting. She earned her Master’s degree in Business Administration from Spring Arbor University. Laura joined CHBW & Co., P.C. in June of 2015 and during her tenure she has earned certification as an Enrolled Agent.

Laura has extensive experience with payroll services and business advisory services in a multitude of industries, specializing in agriculture and farming. Laura provides services for individual, corporate, and partnership tax returns. Laura is a QuickBooks Pro Advisor and specializes in assisting businesses with all types of accounting software-related issues.

Laura maintains a minimum of forty hours annually of State and National CPA Society sponsored seminars in accounting, tax and others relating to the various types of industries and services provided.

Laura currently serves as the Treasurer for the Grosvenor House Museum and Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness-Hillsdale County (“CAPA”), and is on the board of the Hillsdale County Community Foundation. She is a 4-H leader and volunteers her accounting expertise annually at the Hillsdale County Fair Small Animal Auction.

Offering tax, accounting, consulting and fiduciary services.

StateState FarmFarm Bloomington, Bloomington, IL IL

1708156 1708156

5% OFF

With mention of this ad.

Exp 12/31/19

184 W. Carleton Road, Hillsdale, Michigan 517-439-9331 | w w w.chbwcpa.com

WHOLESALE AND RETAIL HARDWOOD FLOORING: • Oak Trim • Luxury Vinyl Tile • Floor Vents • Stair Systems

Celebrate the NEW YEAR with a NEW LOOK!

hardwood flooring

517-523-3468 • 115 E. Bacon • Hillsdale • 800-523-8878 • orders@mthardwoods.com www.mthardwoods.com | Hours: Mon - Fri • 8-4 • Sat 9-Noon • Closed Sun.

59

Life is the Berries Life is Messy.

By Laura Loveberry Elementary School Assembly Author/Speaker, Inspirational Speaker Women’s Retreats/Conferences, Caricature Artist

Life is messy. Unexpected things happen. I am talking with a friend of a friend who took her 2-year-old daughter into the public restroom.

In the cramped bathroom stall, this mom is fastening her belt and attempting to keep her eyes on her active toddler. Suddenly, the mom’s eyes pop out of her sockets, she hyperventilates, and finally gasps, “NOOOOOO!” It is too late.

Her kiddo is evidently quite thirsty, and the condensation on the front of the toilet bowl just is too tempting for the toddler’s parched lips. This resourceful child simply sticks out her tongue, slurps up from the bottom to the top of the not-often-cleaned toilet bowl, then turns and flashes a smile of satisfaction at her bewildered momma. Ewwwwww! Can you even imagine the multitude of germs crawling on the surface of the front of a public toilet stool???

Life is messy.

60

Sometimes we are like this toilet-licking toddler.

We think something will satisfy our deep thirst in life, but, in actuality, it is absolutely not healthy or good for our wellbeing. At the impulsive time, it may seem like a good idea, but after a while, the consequences of our actions can make us sick.

For example, we may enjoy the attention of gossiping with the popular people, but later we lose a valued friendship because the talkedabout victim finds out. We may just make a

quick, “harmless” text while driving and end up in a devastating crash wrecking lives. We may think keeping our phone charging by our bed is a good idea but end up with an eight-hour-aday social media addiction that wastes our time, eats into our productivity, and leads to a level of depression.

When we make the wrong choices and discover the consequences are harsh, life becomes hard.

Our bad choices, our sins, or our impulsivity can wreak havoc in our once peaceful lives.

For this, we have the Psalms.

The Bible is full of encouragement to restart, reboot, recharge, recover, and regain your life.

We need God’s Word to revive our thirsty, messy lives. Reading the Psalms is a refreshing place to start. Check out this inspiration from the Word of God, “You have allowed me to suffer much hardship, but you will restore me to life again and lift me up from the depths of the earth.” Psalm 71:20 NLT Bible. Divine courage to carry on is sprinkled all through the reading of Psalms.

Our lives are messy. For the muddled, miserable, and mucked-up people—let’s go get splashed clean with the Psalms!

Season This

Decorate on a

from

DIMe

Key opportunities Consignment & Vintage Center

517-437-4469 400 N Hillsdale St., Hillsdale MI | M-F 10:00-5:00 • Sat. 10:00– 2:00

We usually TALK TRASH but we wanted to wish you a...

Hillsdale Family Chiropractic

Dr. James Daniels Dr. Sasha Griffis Dr. Matt Gordon Dr. Daniel Nye

Chiropractic Care | Corrective Exercises | Nutritional Counseling | Lifestyle Advice Massage Therapy | Personalized Treatments | Well Wave Therapy

WALK-INS WELCOME OR CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT 79 Hillsdale St., Hillsdale | (517) 439-9800 | www.hillsdalefamilychiropractic.com

MODERN WASTE SYSTEMS

CALL BONNIE AT 517-812-8516

7245 S. Brooklyn Rd. • Napoleon • Locally owned & operated

Suffering with

With Our Experienced Dentist, This Life Changing Approach Will Restore Your Confidence to Smile and Eat What You Like....

Embarrassed to Smile because of

No More Dentures!

LOOSE DENTURES? MISSING TEETH?

NM HER ICHI UT

N GA

SO

MINI IMPLANTS are the AFFORDABLE SOLUTION for you!

CE

DE

NTR

E

MINI NT AL I

M PLAN

T

HillsdaleMDI.com 57 N. Howell Street • Hillsdale, MI 49242

Mini Implant Restoration FREE

NT MINI IMPLAATION T L U S N CO ITH W IC PANORAM Y A X-R

Immediate Tooth Replacement Denture Stabilization Full Arch Fixed Bridges

Todd H. Ryan, DDS CALL TODAY!

(517)437-1000 61

Over The

By Willie Smith Simply Hers Magazine

GE

ED

Do you have someone in your family that is already making arrangements for you to be committed because they’re convinced that you’re losing it and quickly? And then, just to top it off, you do something stupid to prove to them and everyone else that they’re right? I did that recently and it’s enough to put me over the edge.

I know when my son was born. How could I forget?

It took me five years to get pregnant with him and I was really looking forward to his birth. Add that to the fact that I was right there when it happened so we all know I know when the boy was born. It was October 5th. Even though I send his birthday greetings early on his birthday because he lives in Germany and their time is six hours ahead of us, his birthday is pretty much over by the time he sees my message. This year was going to be different. I looked at the October calendar a few months early and somehow it stuck in my brain that October 5th was on a Friday. The date was almost here and he was vacationing in Mauritius so I had to figure out the additional two hour time difference as per the internet. The internet said it and I believed it. If only I could blame the internet for this.

Let’s just get right to the meat of the matter, shall we? Number one, I obviously looked at the wrong calendar because this year October 5th was a Saturday. To top that off, I had my husband sing our birthday song on video Wednesday night so I could push the send button before I went to bed thinking Wednesday was Thursday and Thursday was Friday. Boy, did I have things messed up, but my question is this: why didn’t my husband ask me why

62

I was doing this early? Why didn’t he me ask me if I knew what day of the week it was? Why didn’t he say something, anything? Hey, if I can’t blame the internet, my husband is the next logical choice, right?

I felt so good about pushing that send button as I laid my little head on the pillow Wednesday night and hoped for sweet dreams, but what happened?

The boy got his birthday greeting on Thursday morning which was a full two days before his birthday! Don’t you wonder how this happened?

Me, too! Maybe my neurotransmitters were off.

Now does that sound like someone who’s lost it?

No, it does not. My son was so nice in his return message that it should have set off alarms. Usually he makes a point of telling me my memory stinks, but instead, he thanked me for the birthday wishes and said he’d wait until his real birthday to watch the video. Hmmm.

With all the calendars available to me, you would think I could have figured this out, but no, not me!

Now my son has proof positive I’m losing it. It’s not only on “paper” in my message, but it’s on video to boot. I just know he’s on the phone right now making arrangements to have me committed and I’m pretty sure my husband has pen in hand ready to sign the papers too. They’ve both seemed very happy the last couple of days. And to think Kirk used to be my very favorite oldest child. Actually, he is still my favorite oldest son and always will be. My concern over being committed, though, is enough to put me over the edge.

If you find yourself stuck this holiday season...

WE’RE ONLY A PHONE CALL AWAY!

May you Have a Joyous Holiday Season!

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE Owners: Jeff Valentine and Phil Palmer Hillsdale VanHorn-Eagle

40 S. Manning St. 517.437.3160

517-439-5393 Find how can save Find out out how youyou can save money with Auto-Owners money with Auto-Owners multi-policy discount. multi-policy discount.

THE BEST LOCAL INSURANCE AGENCY

CITY • 000-000-0000 ‘Tis the season www.bestinsuranceagency.com for savings.

Tis the season for savings.

303 N. Summit Street 517.458.2311

HudsON Eagle Funeral Home 415 W. Main Street 517.448.3481

JONesVille Eagle Funeral Home 109 East Street 517.849.9191

litcHfield quiNcy readiNg Eagle Funeral Home Eagle Funeral Home Eagle Funeral Home George White Chapel George White Chapel George White Chapel 220 N. Chicago Street 517.542.3098

111 E. Chicago Street 517.639.5555

403 S. Main Street 517.283.2145

www.eaglefuneralhomes.com

17 Hillsdale St • Hillsdale

Find out how you can save money with Auto-Owners multi-policy discount.

mOreNci Charles Fink Chapel

Live in Comfort and Save Money!

Trust the propane professionals to keep your home comfortable, no matter the season.

THE BESTBROTHERS LOCAL LYNCH INSURANCE AGENCY

THE BEST LOCAL INSURANCE AGENCY CITY • 000-000-0000 www.bestinsuranceagency.com INSURANCE AGENCY Licensed Agents: CITY • 000-000-0000 www.bestinsuranceagency.com

BION LYNCH SHELLIE LYNCH ALLIE LYNCH 517-287-4226

102 East Main Street • North Adams

(Located inside Bob’s Market House)

OPEN SEVEN DAYS -Extensive Inventory -Leader Discount Program -Delivery Service Available (Hudson Area)

HOURS: Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Saturday 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Sunday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

800-276-9741 | 325 Railroad Street, Hudson | 517-448-3111

Budget Plans Delivery Service Emergency Service greenenergylp.net • 517-688-3787 • 7242 E. Chicago • Jonesville

If you have an Injury or Illness that results In physIcal ImpaIrment or loss of functIon, a physIcal therapIst can help.

Appointments available after work and after school Affiliated with Hillsdale College Jake Neukom

DScPT, aTC, oCS, CmPT

Athletic Training / Sports Medicine

38 E. CarlEton road, HillsdalE | 517 437-2222

or 517 437-7702

63

NOVEMBER IS NATIONAL HOSPICE MONTH HOSPICE OF HILLSDALE COUNTY

Hope, dignity, love ... It must be Hospice of Hillsdale County! The care that our staff and volunteers provide brings hope to help people live life as fully as possible, offers dignity when there is not a cure and surrounds families with love at one of life’s most challenging times.

Thank you for your most generous support of Hospice of Hillsdale County over the past 36 years. We appreciate your confidence in the quality end-of-life care we provide each day to patients and families entrusted to us.

Kitty Aemisegger, Executive Director

Your only locally-based non-profit hospice serving the community since 1983 • Board of Directors who reside locally.

• Licensed and certified to bill insurance for reimbursement.

• Patients accepted regardless of insurance coverage, no billing to patients/families.

• Focus on quality of life.

• Patient choices respected, independence encouraged.

• Physical, emotional, spiritual comfort.

• Hospice team educated in symptom management.

• 24/7 RN response 1 hour or less.

• Same staff visits for continuity of care, no visit time quotas.

• RN attends all death calls to provide emotional support.

• Grief support to family and community for 14 months at no charge.

Please consider a donation to our local independent non-profit hospice. We have been selected, again this year, to participate in the Hillsdale County Community Foundation’s Great Give on December 3, 2019. If you date your donation that day and specify our organization, added opportunities from the foundation will be available to our program. It can be mailed to our office or you can donate online using the Foundation website, www.abouthccf.org For additional information, please call Hospice of Hillsdale County at 517-437-5252 or 517-398-4380

HOSPICE OF HILLSDALE COUNTY PRESENTS “A TIME TO HEAL” CHRISTMAS MEMORIAL LUNCHEON This annual event will be held December 5, 2019, at 11:30 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 2551 W. Bacon Road, Hillsdale

Please RSVP with number of guests by November 22, 2019 by calling 517-437-5252

— ALL ARE WELCOME —

WE’RE HERE TO SUPPORT YOU

Hospice of Hillsdale County’s Bereavement Program is open to anyone in our community who has suffered a loss.

We are here to help you with your grief journey and offer private, safe and secure grief resources.

BEREAVEMENT COUNSELING We are concerned about anyone in our community who has suffered a loss. Grief is valuable part of life and losing a loved one can be very challenging. Our bereavement counseling program can help those who are grieving by giving them the tools to adjust, heal and regain the ability to cope with daily living without their loved one. One-on-one counseling can be scheduled day or evening by appointment.

ADULT GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP Our free support group is held weekly and is open to the public, as well as our hospice patients’ families. It is held in a relaxed, comfortable setting where participants are educated about grief while helping and supporting each other.

CHRISTMAS MEMORIAL LUNCHEON Each December, Hospice of Hillsdale County offers a free luncheon for Hospice families and community members. This holiday-themed event is a way for those who are grieving to honor their loved ones and manage their grief through the holidays.

BEREAVEMENT COUNSELOR Hospice of Hillsdale County’s Bereavement Counselor/Coordinator has a Masters and Ph.D. in counseling and is certified as a Grief Recovery Practioner.

64

CAMP COURAGE Hospice of Hillsdale County offers a one-day grief camp for children each year in June on the Saturday after Father’s Day (rain or shine). The campers are offered structured and free-time activities designed to show them that they can gain the “COURAGE” to cope with their loss. A bereavement counselor and adult volunteers are present to monitor and reach out to any child who may need more in-depth help with their healing process. Activities include swimming, face painting, crafts, music therapy and a reptile sanctuary. Parents/guardians are encouraged to attend. The day closes with a memorial service. The children LOVE THIS CAMP! PLEASE CONTACT US AT 517-437-5252 FOR ANY OF THESE RESOURCES OR FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONCERNING: Camp Courage Registration Individual Counseling Grief Support Groups Christmas Luncheon

124 South Howell Street, Hillsdale www.hospiceofhillsdalecounty.org

“When medical science can no longer add more days to life, Hospice of Hillsdale County adds more life to every day!”

NOV/DEC 2019

SH S I M P L Y

it’s a woman thing!

BRANCH/HILLSDALE/LENAWEE

H E R S

2019 HOLIDAY SURVIVAL GUIDE

MARLANEA McGRAW SIMPLY HERS MAGAZINE

DIY BEAUTY RECIPES

SURVIVING HOLIDAY GRIEF

plus GREAT HOLIDAY RECIPES

FREE

HIGHQUALITY CARE YOU TRUST here and now.

Need to see the doc today? No need to go far!

Primary care providers located throughout Hillsdale County offering same-day appointments and walk-in care.

Hillsdale Health & Wellness (517) 437-7040 Walk-ins Litchfield Health Clinic (517) 330-3000 Same-day appointments Reading Health Clinic (517) 283-1772 Same-day appointments

hillsdalehospital.com 2

NOV/DEC 2019

SH S I M P L Y

it’s a woman thing!

H E R S

10 YEARS of

serving YOU!

SIMPLY HERS MAGAZINE THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING US!

SH IT’S A WOMAN THING!

plus NICHE PUBLICATIONS FOR PARENTS, BRIDES & EVEN MEN!

3

C O N T E N T

On the Cover 8

Marlanea McGraw Simply Hers Magazine

Beauty 10

Affordable DIY Gifts

Countdown to Christmas 12 Facebook Give-Away

Local Spotlight 16

Hillsdale’s Light Up Parade

Business Spotlight 18 Daphne’s

The Importance of Tradition 20 Stephanie Gordon

Business Spotlight 22 Tammy’s Affordable Furniture

PSA 24

The Warming Center

Grow Where You’re Planted 26 The TOP of the Homemaking Game

Managing the Holidays 28 After the Loss of a Loved One

Helping Relationships 32 Survive the Holidays

Adopt A Pet 30

Hilldale and Lenawee counties

Holiday Decorating 36 Outside Your Home

NOV/DEC 2019

SH S I M P L Y

40 Pinterest Picks

Christmas Time is Here

42 Seniors at the Holidays Give the Gift of Time

44 Holiday Dieting Tips

Stay Healthy AND Have Fun

10

47 Trading Memories For Gifts

51 Celebrate Winter In Michigan

56 Cookies

Around the World

70 2019 Holiday Festivals and Events Calendar

54 Recipes

54 - Hot Chocolate Tablets 58 - Poland - Ice Cream Kolacky 58 - Italy - Anginetti Lemon Cookies 60 - Mexico - Marranitos 60 - Holland - Speculoos Spice Cookies 62 - China - Peanut Cookies 62 - Russia - Gribochky 64 - Roasted Red Pepper & Cannellini Dip 64 - Pumpkin Dip 66 - Tex-Mex Beef and Bean Dip 66 - Creamy Garlic-Herb Dip 68 - Candy Cane Martini - 68 69 - White Reinder 69 -Irish Creme Holiday Martini 69 -Gingerbread Man Martini

16

51

it’s a woman thing!

LE/LENAWEE

BRANCH/HILLSDA

H E R S

2019 HOLIDAY SURVIVAL GUIDE

MARLANEA McGRAW

On the Cover:

SIMPLY HERS MAGAZINE

DIY BEAUTY RECIPES

SURVIVING HOLIDAY GRIEF

plus

GREAT HOLIDAY RECIPES

4

FREE1

Many people think of things they’d like to achieve but they never do because they don’t take the steps to make it happen even though thought and work and persistence can bring those goals to life. Marlanea McGraw has seen her goal of producing a regional magazine become a successful and varied enterprise that now includes four different publications with thousands of issues distributed in four counties. To get the whole story, see page 8.

Photo by Synergy In Motion Studios Wardrobe provided by Maribeth’s, Hilldale, Mi

FRI NOV. 15 10-5

SAT NOV. 16 10-5

SUN NOV. 17 11-3

We will have refreshments and drawings for store gift certificates.

And lots of decor to get your home ready for Christmas.

Lucy & Nellies COTTAGE AND LAKE DECOR

112 E. Chicago Rd. • Downtown Allen • 517.227.8497

5

6

Without their continued commitment & support, this publication would not be possible.

Anderson Funeral Home - 29 Antiques & Vintage on the Boulevard - 38 Archery Spot Guns & More LLC - 29 Artesian Wells - 57 Blossom Shop - 29 Brock Sprunger Frank Beck Chevrolet - 34 Board of Public Utilities BPU - 24, 31 Bob Evans Foods BEF - 24 CASA - 21 Carpet Outlet Plus - 25 Cavoni’s Pizza - 67 City Collision - 29 City of Hillsdale - 17 Classic Cabinets - 33 Coldwell Banker Denny Groves & Associates - 39 D&D Heating & Cooling - 45 D&S Lounge- 61 Daphne’s Framing and Gifts, Inc - 18 Denise’s Diner - 61 Diamond In The Ruff - 34 El Cerrito Mexican Restaurant - 30 Finish Line Restaurant - 61 Frank Beck Chevrolet - 24, 49 G & D Wood Products - 45

PRIME Fitness - 24 Pub & Grub - 67 Sander’s Insurance - 53 Sandy’s American Auto Detailing - 63 Sheá Nanigans - 67 Silver & Rust - 65 Small Town Sweet Boutique - 43 Smith’s Flower Shop - 45 Southern Michigan Bank & Trust - 17 The Salvation Army - 38 Tammy’s Affordable Furniture - 23 Ten East Treasures - 41 The Crow’s Nest - 7, 38 The Feed Bag - 34 The Posy Shop - 65 Truck Shop - 65 Viaggio Salon - 37 WCSR - 53 Your Big Day - 65

Gene’s Service - 67 Gorton Chimney & Fireplace Company - 50 Gossage Eye Institute - 50 Habitat for Humanity - Restore - 38 Heffernan Soft Water - 27 Hillsdale Buick GMC - 7 Hillsdale Business Association - 17 Hillsdale College - 63 Hillsdale Communty Schools - 59 Hillsdale Community Thrift - 38 Hillsdale County Medical Care Facility - 72 Hillsdale Craft Supply - 67 Hillsdale County Community Foundation - 27 Hillsdale Hospital - 2 Hillsdale High School Craft Bazaar - 29 Hillsdale UB Church Craft Show - 29 Hitching Post - 38 IDK - 38 Jilly Beans Coffee House - 65

Johnny T’s Bistro - 15 June’s Place - 38 Karen’s Uptown Kafe - 67 Kelly’s Furniture - 57 Key Consignment - 46 Leigh Raddatz, CPA - 65 Lifeways - 27 Longstreet Living - 6 Lone Ranger Cafe - 61 Lucy & Nellies - 5 M&M Smokehouse - 35 Maggie Anne Shoppe - 45 Mom’s Diner - 61 My Turn to Drive - 45 Natural Paths Healing Arts Center - 59 North Adams Coffee Shop - 65 Perennial Park - 63 Pittsford Gas & Tire - 63 Precision Metal Art - 55

Capture the Holiday

Spirit!

www.hillsdalebuickgmc.com I 99 W Carleton Rd, Hillsdale, MI 49242 I 517-437-7334

Please thank our ADVERTISERS

Tue-Fri • 10 - 5:30 | Sat 10 - 5 | Closed Sun & Mon

517-917-6436 • 41 East Bacon St, Hillsdale

7

on the cover

SIMPLY HERS

Enters 10th Year!

— By Melissa McCance — It’s been said that goals without a plan are just dreams.

Many people think of things they’d like to achieve but they never do because they don’t take the steps to make it happen even though thought and work and persistence can bring those goals to life. Marlanea McGraw has seen her goal of producing a regional magazine become a successful and varied enterprise that now includes four different publications with thousands of issues distributed in four counties.

Marlanea grew up in North Adams and graduated from North Adams High School. After graduation, she was employed by the Hillsdale Daily News for a time before relocating to the Detroit area where she worked in radio.

From that, Marlanea returned to the world of print media and entered into a joint venture to publish a regional women’s magazine geared to the Detroit metropolitan area.

When Marlanea returned to Hillsdale County, she had the idea to create another women’s magazine, geared this time to the Hillsdale area. What held her back was knowing that doing a monthly publication largely on her own was probably not feasible. Then, she saw the solution: do the magazine on a bi-monthly schedule instead. Thus, Simply Hers was launched!

The first issue appeared in November 2010 and featured articles about community involvement, travel, family, fashion, beauty, recipes, local business spotlights, gift ideas, humor, and health and wellness. Marlanea’s focus from the outset was to give readers content that is uplifting, refreshing, positive, and empowering. The idea was to give area women a magazine that would inform, entertain, and encourage them, centered on the people, places, and events that had an impact on their daily lives.

Another important niche filled by Simply Hers was providing a vehicle for businesses within the distribution area to reach local women. Marketing research has revealed that women make or influence more than 85% of buying decisions within their households. Giving retailers, professionals, and service providers a way to connect with 8

these decision-makers allowed them to advertise to people in a more specific, tailored fashion.

do it without them—they have come through for me under some very stressful and challenging conditions!”

Simply Hers has grown in many ways since that inaugural issue. The November/December 2010 issue had 48 pages, but most issues now feature twice that number.

And, the special holiday issues can run to almost three times as many. Content has changed in some ways as well. While there is still a balanced presentation covering the same areas as the first magazine, the writers of Simply Hers have taken on some deeper, more challenging topics such as homelessness, suicide prevention, and human trafficking. A number of human interest stories featuring local residents have appeared in the magazine’s pages, sharing stories that highlight the joys, sorrows, struggles, and victories of the women around us.

When asked if she has any immediate goals for the magazine, Marlanea laughingly replied, “Yes! Getting the next issue out on time!” Besides meeting those print deadlines, though, she says that she and her staff are very interested in knowing what readers enjoy about the magazine, what they don’t enjoy, and what they would like to see in future issues. To that end, a readership survey has been developed, and a card with information on how to participate is enclosed in this magazine. She also wants to improve the magazine’s website and will be focusing on that in the months to come.

What is especially impressive about Marlanea’s accomplishment in creating and building her publishing business is that she has done it without formal education in journalism or business. Drawing on everything she’s learned from past work experiences and following her instincts, she has brought her enterprise along, expanding, deepening, and polishing the product as she goes. “It was a learning curve from the very beginning,” she explains. “A lot of it has been trial and error, definitely following our own path.”

One thing Marlanea values greatly has been how the magazine has developed community relationships that have lasted nearly a decade. She is especially indebted to the people who took a leap of faith and committed to advertising in that first issue. Because the magazine is complimentary, the financial support of its advertisers is what allows it to exist. Marlanea is grateful to have the support of the business community and says that a significant number of advertisers from that first issue are still on board. She also says that her staff has been phenomenal in their dedication and willingness to deal with the craziness of putting out a magazine! “I couldn’t

The community’s acceptance and encouragement mean a great deal to Marlanea. “When someone I don’t know comes up to me and makes a point of complimenting our work and saying how much she or he enjoys the magazine, that is truly meaningful.

It happens to my staff as well as to me, and it’s just amazing!”

Several additional publications have been added to Marlanea’s lineup. Along with Simply Hers, the list includes a twice-yearly men’s magazine called Everything Men that comes out each spring and fall, Michigan Parent—a twice-yearly parenting magazine issued in June and November—and an annual bridal issue. The current distribution area includes Hillsdale and Lenawee counties along with portions of Branch and Jackson counties. Ten thousand copies are printed and shared among area retailers, restaurants, professional offices, and service providers.

As Simply Hers enters its tenth year of publication, it is a testimony to what vision, drive, commitment, and hard work can do. Who knows what Marlanea might think of next? It will be interesting to see!

9

y t u a e B RECIPES

INGREDIENTS 1 1/2 cups brown sugar 1 1/2 – 2 cups coconut oil 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste Glass jars with airtight lids Ribbon Cardboard paper or labels pen/marker 10

Affordable DIY gifts for yourself or your loved ones!

DIRECTIONS 1. Combine dry ingredients in a bowl. Add vanilla paste and coconut oil.

If the coconut oil is hard you can put it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, so that it softens.

2. Mix everything until combined. You want to get a sugary paste out of this.

Depending on the consistency, add more sugar or oil if needed.

3. Put the scrub into jars and decorate any way you like.

Note: This recipe makes two small jars of body scrub. One jar should last you a few months, so you don’t have to worry about it going bad. Double or triple the ingredients if you are making this for more people. I think your mom, sisters, coworkers, … will love it!

Peppermint Massage Truffles 3 Tablespoons cocoa butter 3 Tablespoons beeswax 1 1/2 Tablespoons grapeseed oil 2 teaspoons peppermint essential oil 1 teaspoon menthol essential oil 1 Tablespoon cassia oil Melt the cocoa butter, beeswax, and grapeseed oil over medium low heat in a small saucepan, keeping a close eye on it so it doesn’t smoke or burn. As soon as everything is melted, remove from heat.

Stir in the essential oils. Pour into little silicone chocolate moulds, popping the pan back over the heat to re-warm as needed (these solidify quickly).

Let the truffles set for an hour or two before removing from the moulds. To use, massage into sore muscles and wait a couple minutes for the cooling to set in. Enjoy!

Pom Lip Gloss INGREDIENTS: 2 cup petroleum jelly 1 scoop or 2 packets of Natural Cherry Pomegranate Crystal Light 1 teaspoon water DIRECTIONS 1. Mix petroleum jelly and Crystal Light in a bowl

Candy Cane Salt Scrubs INGREDIENTS: 2 cups Epsom Salts 2 cups Sea Salt Red Food Coloring Peppermint Essential Oil DIRECTIONS 1. Combine the Epsom salt and sea salt into one mixing bowl.

Whisk or stir to fully combine.

2. Scoop 2 cups of the salts into a second mixing bowl.

Add 5-10 drops of peppermint essential oil to the salts and whisk to combine.

3. Next add 5-10 drops of red coloring to the mixture for Candy Cane Bath Salts,and whisk vigorously to fully combine.

Additional coloring may be added if desired.

SPICED LATTE HAND SOAP INGREDIENTS: 2 tbsp mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves 1/4 tsp coffee grounds 1 lb shea butter melt and pour soap base DIRECTIONS 1. Cut soap base into cubes and melti n a microwave or with a double broiler.

2.When base is completely melted, add spices and coffee grounds.

2. Add water until the gloss is a berry color.

3. Quickly pour soap into a silicon mold because the soap base cools fast!

3. Use a spatula to spoon into jars.

4. Let soap cool completely before you pop them out of the mold!

11

Christmas GIVE-AWAY!

Countdown to

CHRISTMAS IS IN THE

MINIS CAN BE

BAG!

Mighty FUN

Everybody LOVES

SWEETS

Woman’s bag and clutch combo - $48 value Hillsdale Hospital Gift Shop 168 South Howell, Hillsdale 517-437-5237

Two Nora Fleming Minis - $25 value Your choice of in-stock items Longstreet Living 720 E Chicago Rd, Coldwater 517-278-4487

Like us on Facebook for a chance to win one of these great gifts!

Holiday Candy Bouquet $20 value Small Town Sweet Boutique 4 S. Howell St, Hillsdale 517-610-5403

GIVE THEM A

SMOKIN’

GOOD CHRISTMAS Gift Certificate - $25 Value M&M Smokehouse 4880 Hudson Rd., Osseo 517-523-2121

BRING THEM

A Touch of

CHRISTMAS! Merry Christmas Santa Board, decorative Christmas tree, and Iron & Pearl soy candle - $50 value.

Ten East Treasures 10 E. Chicago - Downtown Quincy 517-639-2456

12

COMFORT & JOY

$100

$100 Gift Certificate Tammy’s Affordable Furniture, Antiques & More Adrian Mall (Across from Bath & Body Works) 517-264-9877 105 E. Main Street, North Adams 517-287-0110

Countdown to christmas Keep Their

SERVE UP A LITTLE

LOVE!

RIDE

RUNNING SMOOTHLY

Christmas plaid wooden bowl to fill with holiday treats or décor. Value: $45.00 Maribeth’s 10 North Howell St, Hillsdale 517-437-3113

$10 OFF Synthetic Oil ChangeFrank Beck Chevrolet M-99 Between Hillsdale & Jonesville 517-849-2886

Let it SEW, Let it SEW,

LET IT SEW

$30 Gift Certificate Individual and group classes available.

Trevathan’s Sweep and Sew Shoppe 47 N. Broad Street, Hillsdale 517-437-5555

Let them

SLING IRON 1 month FREE Open Gym $49 value PRIME Fitness Studio 96 E. Carleton | Hillsdale 517-817-6475

LET THEM EAT

PANCAKES le, MI 49242 n Rd. Hillsda 252 W. Carleto ter, MI 49036 o St. Coldwa 74 W. Chicag

$50 Gift Certificate Finish Line Family Restaurant 75 W. Carleton Road, Hillsdale 517-437-3470

A Gift For You

SPICE UP THE HOLIDAYS

IT’S A

WRAP

Alpine Fleece Micro Mink Sherpa Blanket - $32 Value Urban Graffiti 6820 S. Bird Lake Rd. Osseo 517-594-5074.

$50 gift certificate to be used at either location.

El Cerrito Mexican Restaurant 252 W. Carleton, Hillsdale 517-437-7919 74 W. Chicago, Coldwater 517-278-4234

13

Countdown to christmas

SCENTS

OF THE

Season Ultrasonic Metal Touch Oil Diffuser and a bottle of oil $44.99 value Hillsdale Natural Grocery 31 N. Broad St., Hillsdale 517-439-1397

A FLUTTER OF

BEAUTY Beaded Butterfly Necklace on a silver chain - $65 value Hillsdale Craft Supply 164 Lewis Street, Hillsdale 517-610-5193

WE Can See CLEARLY Now

THE RAIN IS GONE...

STYLE FOR YOUR HOLIDAYS 14

$50 Gift Certificate Devils Lake View Living 200 Devils Lake Hwy Manitou Beach 517-252-5287

Anco Winter Series Wiper Blades WX20UB or WX 22UB FREE installation $30 value Performance Automotive Either location: 30 Union Street, Hillsdale 517-437-4465 490 Olds Street, Jonesville 517-849-7500

MITTEN

MAGIC MISMITTS Mittens - $20 Handmade from recycled sweaters Aavailable at Jilly Beans, Hillsdale 517-320-9235

MAKE A

CLEAN

SWEEP THIS HOLIDAY $50 gift certificate to be used at the following locations on a car wash, oil change or detailing. Note not all locations have oil change and detailing services.

3295 Carleton Rd., Hillsdale - 517-439-4181 100 Hoosier Dr., Angola - 260-624-2993 1709 W. Michigan Ave., Jackson - 517-787-6044 1312 S. West Ave., Jackson - 517-787-4088 3511 Scheele Drive, Jackson - 517-787-8098

JOHNNY T’S “NEXT DOOR” BANQUET FACILITY

SMALL BUSINESS NIGHT CHRISTMAS PARTY EAT. DRINK. LAUGH. DANCE

ONE NIGHT ONLY DECEMBER 14, 2019 Doors open at 6:00 pm Dinner is served at 7:15 pm.

The comedien starts at 8:30 pm Dancing to Sunshine DJ Paul starts at 9:30 pm.

HORS D’OEUVRES Charcuterie Display Fresh Vegetables & Dip BBQ Meatballs Spinach/Artichoke Dip with Crostini DESSERT BAR CASH BAR AVAILABLE

DINNER BUFFET TO INCLUDE: Slow-roasted Beef Tenderloin Classic Chicken Marsala Loaded Mashed Potatoes Baked Macaroni and Cheese Southern-style Green Beens Build-Your-Own Salad Station Warm Dinner Rolls w/butter

Cost: $30/person (Includes coffee, tea and soft drinks) + tax & gratuity.

For reservations call Penny — 517.607.8463 or Rick — 517.439.110

173 E. South St., Hillsdale • 439-1100

Hillsdale Hosts Light-UP Parade To KICK OFF holiday season.

By Sarah Gray

A fun-filled family evening celebrating the Hillsdale County community and the holiday season is what keeps the Hillsdale Light-Up parade going year after year. This year’s parade will take place Saturday, December 7, at 6:15 p.m. through downtown Hillsdale.

“It is a kick-off for the holiday season,” says Mary Bertakis, a member of the Hillsdale Business Association and organizer of the event. This is the parade’s seventh year and Mary has been a part of organizing it for the past five years. She also owns Chef’s Way Organic Farms with her husband Ezra and the business is a big sponsor of the parade as is County National Bank.

The 2019 Hillsdale Light-Up Parade Grand Marshal is Denise Baker and the staff at Hillsdale County Medical Care Facility. The medical care facility was recently named the number one nursing home in Michigan by a Newsweek poll. This ranking, and knowing the difficult but rewarding work done there, made it easy for Mary and the parade committee to choose them as Grand Marshals. “We are lucky as a community to have them,” Mary says. “They bring a light into the community.”

16

Each year, the Light-Up parade has about 50 entries, and, over the past

seven years, some traditions have begun to form. Mary says the Girl Scout troops of Hillsdale County have always been the color guard and the Jonesville Marching Band always plays the national anthem. Several other community groups also help out in various ways making the event truly a community-wide endeavor. Andy Brown of WCSR 92.1 will emcee the parade again this year as well.

Participants in the parade are encouraged to decorate their floats, vehicles, and even themselves with lights. Mary says her family decorates their tractor with lights for the parade and she likes to think of all the families coming together the night or two before to decorate for the parade. There is even a bit of friendly competition among groups for the most lights or the most unique lights.

Parade entries are open until December 5 and any group, business, or organization can enter for free by emailing lightupparade@gmail. com. The parade kicks off at 6:15 and travels through downtown Hillsdale.

Earlier in the day, the Hillsdale Business Association will be hosting a scavenger hunt around downtown.

More information on the scavenger hunt can be found on the Hillsdale Business Association Facebook page.

Parade and Scavenger Hunt December 7th 2019 10 aM am - 3 pm PM • Parade 6:15 PM (Weather Permitting)

Downtown Hillsdale’s Annual kick-off Christmas events with the Golden Sleigh Scavenger Hunt and other fun activities!

Register for parade at LighUpParade@gmail.com.

Hillsdale Business Association PO Box 98, Hillsdale, MI 49242

THANK YOU TO OUR LOYAL CUSTOMERS

Wishing you a season filled with warmth, comfort and good cheer!

www.smb-t.com | 10 E. Carleton Rd. Hillsdale, MI 49242 17

Daphne's AnnualDaphne's Hunter's Annual Hunter's Widow/Widower Event IT'S THAT TIME AGAIN!

Widow/Widower SATURDAY • NOV.Event 16 SATURDAY 10 AM - 5• NOV. PM 16 10 AM - 5 PM

YUMMY FOOD & LIBATIONS. GOODIE BAGS. YUMMY FOOD & LIBATIONS. GOODIE BAGS.

D O O R P RD IZ ER S .P RG O GOERO U RI S IS TA M OO IZE SR . G GE OS U SC CH HR TM SA S COR AND SEASONAL GIFTS. DÉCOR D AÉN D SEASONAL GIFTS.

103 W. Main St Downtown Homer 517.568.5555

18

t

Always something new at Daphne’s

business spotlight

Always

SOMETHING NEW at

Daphne’s Story by Sarah Gray

There is always something new to find and fall in love with at Daphne’s. The eclectic gift and framing store is named after its owner Daphne Stonebraker who dreamed of opening her own gift shop long before it became a reality.

“Since 1970, I have always wanted to have my own gift shop,” she says of her store in downtown Homer. Now she has had the current store for 20 years and been in her current location – at the corner of Main and Sophia streets – for the past eight years. “Homer is the best place I’ve ever lived. The community is very supportive.”

Anyone who’s been in Daphne’s knows it is packed to the brim with unique gifts for every taste. Wall hangings, wreaths, candles, and seasonal décor for any time of year allow customers to get just the right pieces to let their personalities shine through.

The store is its own piece of art – with all its meticulously placed items – any time of year, but no time is as unique as Christmas. “It just sparkles,” she says.

In order to transform her store into a Christmas wonderland, Daphne closes her doors for a week.

“I cover the windows so no one can peek,” she says with a smile.

Then, she opens with a flourish for her Christmas open house with food, drinks, giveaways, and lots of fun for her customers because, as Daphne says, there would not be a store without them “I just love ‘em, love ‘em, love ‘em.”

And, they love her. Customers know when they come into Daphne’s they are going to be well taken care of. They are first greeted at the door with happy tail wags from Daphne’s famous canine, Raylan.

Daphne will also take the time to help them find exactly what they are looking for – even if they didn’t know what they were looking for to begin with. “We never let a gift leave the store without ribbon and tissue,” she says. “The customers like it and it’s like a gift for the gift. It makes them feel good.”

It is not just the presentation of the gift, however; it’s the time Daphne takes with each customer to make him or her feel special. “Sometimes, I feel like a bartender or a hairdresser,” she says of the way her customers open up to her. “But I always say, ‘what is said and done at Daphne’s, stays at Daphne’s.’”

This year’s Christmas open house will take place Saturday, November 2, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. She will also have a hunting widow and widowers open house November 16 – she says she always tries to have one near opening day of rifle season.

Customers will be sure to find some special gift for themselves or a friend or loved one at Daphne’s. She has several Christmas trees decorated in themes such as Santa, snowmen, owls and her popular peacock tree. She also has trees for animal lovers including cats and dogs – special for Raylan – but they must be separate. “Raylan won’t let me have a cat on his tree,” Daphne says.

In addition to the wide selection of holiday home goods, Daphne will also have her selection of children’s and baby items, jewelry, and candles. In addition, she does custom framing. “I love art. I love making other people’s art better,” she says.

Daphne’s is open on Monday during the holiday season beginning at noon, Tuesday from noon to 6 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (during the holiday season, hours will be extended to 5 p.m.).

Holiday hours begin after Thanksgiving.

For more information on the unique gifts and lines at Daphne’s, visit her website at www.daphnesframingandgifts.com. The store can also be found on Facebook.

19

The Importance of Tradition and the

CHRISTMAS SEASON

BY Stephanie Gordon, Simply Hers Magazine

It’s that time of year again! The holidays are here. It is the most joyous season made possible by endless smiles of excitement, Christmas music, classic holiday movies, celebrating Jesus, and, of course, children.

I can’t tell you how happy the holidays are with the girls. I always knew children would make the holidays magical, but, really, it’s just so happy and special.

Watching this season unfold through their eyes is a true treat. Each year we have several traditions.

Traditions are what make the season special. If you’re looking to add some holiday traditions to your family, I hope some of my ideas will help.

Go get a tree: We always venture to our favorite Christmas tree farm the day after Thanksgiving. We hunt for the perfect tree, cut it down, and bring it home. I always have a leftover turkey casserole waiting so there’s no meal prep to worry about. We simply enjoy the day with family, all while decorating our tree with lots of Christmas music.

Have a Christmas Eve dinner: Our favorite is to make homemade paleo lasagna for Christmas Eve. Church and lasagna make for plenty of special moments and memories.

New pajamas and a Christmas book: This is a tradition from my childhood. We get the girls a new pair of Christmas jammies and a new Christmas book to read. Our family is a fan of Robert Sabuta popup books. They are beautiful and can be found on Amazon.

Reading of the Christmas story: This is a tradition from my husband’s childhood. He reads the Christmas story (Luke 2: 1-20) before opening presents on Christmas morning. Reading this helps focus on the true meaning of this season.

Decorate the house: Hang up some wreaths, and a few extra twinkle lights. Bring out some favorite figurines from childhood. These trinkets are full of great memories.

Christmas day: Relax! Stay in pajamas. Listen to music, watch movies, spend time with family and those closest to you. Celebrate with a big breakfast.

We always have paleo biscuits and gravy, waffles, and lots of espresso. Make a charcuterie board for dinner.

Keep it simple and cozy. Cozy is always the best Christmas.

Write a letter to St. Nick: I know that not everyone celebrates the holidays with Santa, but Santa is very welcome at our home. The girls write their letter to Santa (which also helps with gift ideas!) which we deliver to the local post office.

This is a season to slow down and focus on what’s important. I think we can learn a lot from the holiday season. If we applied the importance of tradition and family and Jesus throughout the year, we might just be a little more cheery year round.

Get an advent calendar: Last year Matt and I celebrated with a wine advent calendar from Aldi. It was so fun. I know some families celebrate with books or practicing acts of kindness each day of the season.

Watch Christmas movies: Every Sunday night, November through December, we watch our favorite Christmas movies. We sit down with cozy blankets Margot V. Biermann Athletic Center • Corner of Oak and College Streets and sip homemade hot cocoa. This is probably one of the girls’ favorite traditions.

20

I wish you and your family a

healthy and happy holiday season and New Year!

Be a Voice for the Voiceless.

Become a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) CASA volunteers work with foster children and advocate for their best interest in court.

NEW VOLUNTEER TRAINING SCHEDULED FEBRUARY 2020 www.casaofhillsdalecounty.com For more info: Contact Heather Upton Program Coordinator at 517.425.4145(text) or 517.797.6020 (office) 21

Tammy’s Affordable Furniture opens second location

Q

— By Sarah Gray —

uality furniture at affordable prices can now be found in two locations. Tammy’s Affordable Furniture recently opened a second location in the Adrian Mall located at 1357 Main Street on Business 223 in Adrian. Tammy Kies said she decided to open a second location after talking with the owners of the mall.

She said they were looking for businesses in order to reopen and approached Tammy.

Tammy’s Affordable Furniture, which also has a location in downtown North Adams, has been open in Adrian for several weeks. Her store offers high-quality furniture at reasonable prices.

“I carry a little bit of everything,” she says of her selection which includes sofas, entertainment centers, love seats, beds, day beds, recliners, and lift chairs. From sleeper sofas to sectionals, recliners to dining sets, Tammy’s can furnish just about any room in your home.

She also has a selection of antique clocks and dressers for sale.

Quality and price are not the only ways Tammy’s Affordable Furniture stands out from the competition. She also offers delivery at both her Adrian and North Adams locations. The store offers a selection of furniture with brands such as Lane, Beauty Rest, Simmons, Signature Design by Ashley, Washington, and Cat Napper.

Tammy’s Affordable Furniture is open Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday, noon to 6 p.m. Her North Adams location—Tammy’s Affordable Furniture Antiques & More—is located at 105 E. Main St., North Adams, and is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, call 517-287-0110 or find the business on Facebook.

22

Just In TIME For The

Holidays

Dress up your home or find the perfect gift...

Signature Design by Ashley, Lane and Simmons Furniture 2 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS

NEW LOCATION Adrian Mall (across from Bath & Body Works) 517-264-9877 Tues. - Sat. 10-7 Sunday • 12-6 | Closed Monday

NORTH ADAMS 105 E. Main Street 517-287-0110 Tues. - Fri. • 10-5:30 | Sat. 10-3 Closed Sunday & Monday

Gift Certificates Financing Available

23

YOU DON’T HAVE TO STOP SMOKING IN ONE DAY. START WITH DAY ONE. Quitting smoking isn’t easy. It takes time. And a plan.

You don’t have to stop smoking in one day. Start with day one. Let the Great American Smokeout® event on November 21 be your day to start your journey toward a smoke-free life. The American Cancer Society can help you access the resources and support you need to quit. Quitting starts here.

Learn more at cancer.org/smokeout or call 1-800-227-2345.

This message brought to you by these community-minded businesses

Your Business Could be 304 S Main St, Adrian Here!

(517) 266-6773 • commspec.biz 2424

NOW HIRING! FRANK BECK CHEVROLET 3750 W. Carleton Rd Hillsdale (517) 849-2886

www.hillsdalebpu.com

45 MONROE ST • HILLSDALE (517) 437-3387

200 N. WOLCOTT ST. HILLSDALE

517-437-3349 96 E. CARLETON RD • HILLSDALE

jobs.postholdings.com/bob-evans-farms

Get your home ready for the

HOLIDAYS! DESIGNER AREA RUGS 5x8 Rugs starting at $29 8x11 Rugs starting at $59

WE BIND CARPET

20 Twin Mattress Styles

for custom $89 to $649

RUGS!

FANTASTIC

PRICING

RUNNERS on Full, Queen GREAT FLOORING FROM $39.95 Rolls & Remnants and Kings too!

AT DISCOUNT PRICES! Pick from over 500 In Stock

Monday thru Saturday 9 am to 7 pm CORNERSTONE’S 517-263-2929 • www.carpetoutletplus.net

3101 S. Adrian Hwy., Adrian • ParkingOUTLET on M52 at US 223 FLOORING 3101 S Adrian Hwy, Adrian MI Monday - Saturday 9 am - 7 pm www.carpetoutletplus.net

1000 State St. may differ from photos.

Merchandise subject to prior sale. Typos are subject to correction. We reserve the right to limit quantities. Most prices are cash and carry. S. Prices may changes. Merchandise Pioneer, OH St. Rt. 15 or M-99

Mon. - Fri. 9:00-6:00; Sat. 9:00 - Noon; Sun. Closed

Grow Where You Are Planted.

By Rachel Yoder

The TOP of the Homemaking Game.

Well, guys, I am excited to announce that I was chosen as Hillsdale County’s 2019 Homemaker Of The Year! I’m telling you about this not because I want to toot my own horn, but because I know for a fact that there are a whole bunch more people who take homemaking to heart like me and the wonderful women who have come before me. You don’t have to be a stay-at-home parent, you’ve just got to create, give back to our community, and enter your projects in the fair!

It’s open to any Hillsdale county resident 18 or older, male or female, and I want to see you next year. So, what I want you to do is to take this little nugget of information and tuck it into the back of your mind for next season. I won’t be letting you forget, either; I know you guys are out there and you deserve this honor.

In other news, I’ve come to the decision that I will be reviving my blog. New place, new beginning. In the last year, it has taken a back seat for a lot of different reasons, the biggest one being myself. I had this notion that since thousands of other people are writing/blogging about the exact same topics that anything I wrote about was just white noise. (That doesn’t really sound like I was growing where I was planted, does it?) What makes my perspective unique and different? Honestly, I’m not too sure, but I am sure of this: I have amazing friends who do amazing things and I want to show them off. (Be sure to stop by my website for a great article by my friend Cristy about the monarch butterfly house she made for her girls.) Maybe I’ll bring the focus back around to lifting others up as well as keeping up with all the projects I get myself wrapped up in.

Speaking of projects, I thought it would be a great idea to make the boys each a sweater for Christmas . . . the level of insanity on my part is staggering. Because not only did I think the idea, I actually said it out loud to my children. So, now I have no choice but to produce three small sweaters for Christmas. Because, as you well know, if you have children or have ever been near them and uttered any sort of statement about them receiving anything they will never, ever, ever let you forget it.

It’s not just that, though. I actually felt the need to learn an entirely new crochet technique because I wanted the look of knitting without actually having to knit. I am making Tunisian knit stitch sweaters with a circular yoke using Fair Isle color work with NO PATTERN. I’m totally winging it. I’m barely counting stitches. The good thing is that my kids are sweet and would totally love a hacked up old t-shirt someone dug out of the trash, so I’ve got high hopes that they’ll like the ugly sweaters their poor mom toiled over for three months. [*crossing fingers] I hope each and every one of you has an amazing holiday season with your loved ones!

Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas, & Happy New Year, with love from the Yoders.

Rachel is a gardener, beekeeper, wife, mother of three wild and crazy boys, and lover of all things homesteading. Come grow with her at greenpromisegrows.com. Or, follow Green Promise Grows on facebook or green.promise.grows on Instagram.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year...

or Is It?

Happy Holidays & Merry Christmas

or is it?

from the team at Heffernan Soft Water

Are your holidays not-somerry and bright? If you are having intense feelings of sadness, anger, anxiety, or Are your holidays not so merry and bright? thoughts of harming yourself If you are having intense feelings of

sadness, anger, anxiety, or thoughts of harming yourself or others, call our 24-hour crisis line at 800-284-8288 or visit us at 25 Care Dr., Hillsdale, MI 49242 8 AM - 6 PM • Monday - Friday

Hope and Help Begin at Lifeways

517-437-2628

3275 W Carleton Road Hillsdale www.heffernansoftwater.com

The Hillsdale County Community Foundation is proud to host an event aimed at encouraging all of Hillsdale County to give to local nonprofits on one specific date, to be the largest single day of giving in Hillsdale County on December 3, 2019, HCCF will be hosting the Great Give.

Come Together 12.03.19

Select Hillsdale County nonprofits will be raising funds on December 3 and will be eligible for bonus pool dollars from the Foundation on this date. Please consider supporting our local nonprofits on this day with your charitable giving, as this opportunity is not to be missed!

Online gifts are encouraged using the HCCF website, www.abouthccf.org; walk-in gifts will be accepted on site at 2 South Howell St. in downtown Hillsdale from 9:00 am until 4:00 pm on Giving Day, December 3rd.

27

MANAGING THE HOLIDAYS

after the loss of a loved one.

BY SARAH GRAY

Know that this year is not going to look like years past, and that is perfectly fine.

28

The holidays are usually a stressful time. Schedules become overcrowded with events, parties, and shopping. Everyone looks merry and bright and we are supposed to as well. Right?

But, when you are someone who has recently lost a loved one, the holiday season can be one of sadness, confusion, and pain. So, what can you do to manage the stress of the holidays with the grief you feel?

According to verywellhealth.org, one of the very best things someone can do is allow themselves to feel whatever they are feeling. Grief does not look the same for everyone. It is perfectly acceptable to feel happy one day and sad the next. Do not feel pressure to make this holiday season just like every other one has been – because it is not.

Only take on the things you can handle. If, this year, the idea of Christmas cards seems too much, don’t send them. If getting together with a large group is overwhelming, don’t go. Do not take on more than you can handle. There may be certain triggers for you that you may not be able to control. Psychology Today says to think about what you can do to lessen the heartache when you can.

If you are struggling with missing a loved one this season, see Local Beat on page 32 in the opposite side of the magazine for information about the memorial luncheon hosted by Hospice of Hillsdale County.

Maybe only shop for gifts online this year or limit the amount of decoration in your home.

However, if it is too difficult to be alone right now, seek out the company and affection of others.

Friends and family want to help during this difficult time, but often do not know what to do. Tell them if you enjoy hearing about the loved one you lost – they may feel uneasy about bringing it up. Talk about favorite traditions or memories you have.

Know that this year is not going to look like years past, and that is perfectly fine. It may be difficult to see others fully embracing the holiday season while you are sad or in pain. Expressing your feelings to others can help them understand what you are going through. A brave face can often look like everything is just fine. So, talk about how you are feeling and allow others to give you help and support. While family and friends are a wonderful support system, you may also look for grief support groups to be able to talk to others who are going through a similar situation to yours.

This year will look different than years past, so try to make some new traditions or alter old ones. Honor the one you have lost but also look forward to the future. Although you may think you have nothing to give, you do! Performing acts of kindness is good for the grieving spirit says Psychology Today.

Donate to families in need or volunteer at a soup kitchen or nursing home.

Although it may seem impossible, you will get through the holidays. Some days will be tougher than others. Do not be hard on yourself if this year the holidays go by without much fanfare. Allow yourself joy when you feel it and try not to feel guilty. Be true to yourself and allow others to help you and take care of you. Grief is a part of healing.

The holiday season will get better with time but only if you permit yourself to grieve and get through the season without your loved one.

Funeral planning and cremation services you can trust. heather Pearce Advanced Funeral Planner

Sharon rickaby Certified Pre-Planning Consultant

Your one stop pro shop

CHECK OUT OUR CABINS AND SHEDS AT THE FAIR!

CHECK OUTOUR OUR CHECK OUT

Largest Sporting Goods Store in the Tri-State Area!

GUNS & MORE

CABINSAND & SHEDS CABINS SHEDS BOWS IN STOCK LARGEST SPORTINGOVER GOODS300 STORE IN THE TRI-STATE AREA FINANCING AT THE FAIR! AVAILABLE OVER GUNS STOCK OVER 300 BOWS ON STOCK500 - OVER 500 IN GUNS IN STOCK GUNS & MORE HOYT •MATHEWS • MISSION BOWTECH LARGEST SPORTING GOODS STORE IN THE•TRI-STATE AREA RAVIN • BEAR ARCHERY OVER 300 •CENTERPOINT BOWS ON STOCK - OVER 500 GUNS IN STOCK 3400 TERRITORIAL RD. (St.517-254-4455 Rt. 120) Camden, MI 49232

www.thearcheryspot.com

DECK THE HALLS

IN STYLE!

NEW OWNER HEATHER WEBSTER

11/2 Miles West of M-99 www.thearcheryspot.com

517-254-4455

3 Miles From Pioneer, OH 3400 3400 Territorial Rd (St. Rt. 120) TERRITORIAL RD.IN 18 Miles From Fremont, (St. Rt.- 120) Camden, MI M-99 49232 Camden 1.5 MI West of 1 www.thearcheryspot.com 1 /2 Miles West of M-99 ARCHERY SPOT 3 Miles from Pioneer, 3 Miles From Pioneer,OH OH 18 Miles From Fremont, IN

517-254-4455

www.hillsdaleblossomshopmi.com • 20 N. Howell St. • Hillsdale • 517-437-4160

From fender benders to deer accidents, we work with all insurance companies to give you the best service possible.

FULL WARRANTY

ON ALL COLLISION REPAIRS!

“We Use Strictly OEM Parts” Hours M-F 9-5 BRYAN DUNLAP, OWNER 3391 Hudson Road, Hillsdale, MI 49242 • 517-437-4551 • citycollision.hillsdale@gmail.com 29

TWO LOCATIONS — SAME GREAT TASTE! HILLSDALE — 252 W. CARLETON — 517-437-7919

e!

Gift Certificates Availabl gs & Office Parties!

Great for Small Gatherin Full-Service Bar at Both Locations!

Coldwater — 74 w. ChiCago — 517-278-4234 Hours: Mon -Thurs 11AM - 9:30 PM • Fri & Sat 11AM - 10 PM • Sun 11AM - 9 PM

HILLSDALE

31

Helping Relationships Survive the Season.

‘Tis the season to be jolly. Yeah, right! It is more like the season to be stressed, grouchy, and completely tired of spending time with just about everybody.

Let’s face it, the holiday season can be very stressful on a relationship.

It doesn’t matter if this is your first Christmas together or if you have been doing this for more than a decade as a couple, the stress can get to everyone. Here are a few suggestions to help you do more than just survive; you might actually have a Merry Christmas.

1. Do one tiny thing for each other every day. This doesn’t have to be anything major, it is simply a way for your partner to know that he is important to you. Make him a cup of coffee before you head out on your shopping trip, go for a walk together, or give him a minimassage to relieve the stress.

2. Help your shopping-challenged guy get it all done. Come to his rescue and you’ll not only have a grateful man on your hands, you’ll also score more couple time. Hit the mall early or late, when it’s less crowded. Be sure to steer him toward appropriate gifts and away from the remote-control cars he thinks everyone likes as much as he does.

3. Pull him aside at a party and make a private toast. Creating a quiet moment in the middle of a crowd can help you reconnect when you’ve both been making the rounds.

4. Take advantage of our high-tech world. Send a random text or funny picture when you know the stress is starting to wear on him. Another great use of today’s technology is shopping online. The mall is fun, but shopping in your PJs in front of a warm fire is pretty great, too.

5. Plan a down day at least once a week. The schedules get crowded very quickly this time of year; by planning some time to stay in and chill, you won’t feel guilty when you’ve had enough and decide to blow-off your friend’s invite.

6. Be considerate of both sides of the family. This is one of the hardest parts of the season: deciding where to spend your time. Although you may have spent every Christmas with your family in the past, keep in mind that may be true for him as well. Compromise is the key to happiness here. Really talk about it and come up with the best plan possible to keep the peace. It is important to point out that your decision may not make everyone happy, but the ultimate goal is to make yourselves as a couple happy with the decision and let everyone else come to terms with it. Trust me, there is no one out there who hasn’t gone through the same dilemma.

Now go out there and have yourselves a merry little Christmas.

REMODELING SERVICES

Make it A to REMEMBER

Experience the Difference classiccabinetsandinteriors.com

Amie Pelham Owner/Designer

• CABINETRY • COUNTERTOPS • FLOORING • LIGHTING • CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS • BLINDS • FURNITURE • REMODELING • WALLPAPER • HARDWARE SERVICES • ELECTRIC • INTERIOR DESIGN FIREPLACES NEW PRODUCTS • INTERIOR DESIGN • WINDOWS INTERIOR DOORS • • WINDOWS EXTERIOR DOORS • • INTERIOR DOORS • INTERIOR TRIM • EXTERIOR DOORS • DECKING • • INTERIOR TRIM CAD DESIGN SERVICES (FULL HOUSE PLANS)

Ask us about our Masco employees’ friends and family purchase programs

Craig Barnes Owner/Designer

Brian Renald Lisa VanSickle Owner/Project Manager Interior Designer

Betsy Writer Interior Designer

Sarah Mende Interior Designer

33

ADOPT- A -PET Neil

Mixed Breed Neutered Male 1 year old

Pheobe 3 1/2 yrs. old Spayed female Greater Hillsdale Humane Society

Lenawee Humane Society 705 W Beecher Adrian

3881 Tripp Rd. Osseo (517) 523-2308

(517) 263-3463

This is Phoebe. She came to our shelter in April with 5 newborn kittens. They have all been adopted and now she is waiting for her forever home.

Neil is looking for his own Sweet Caroline. Short and stocky but handsome as heck, he’ll make you realize good times never seemed so good. Neil loves long walks on the beach, spontaneous adventures, and cheesing for the camera.

Apply to adopt this 1-year-old heart breaker online at lenhumanesoc.org!

She is a very sweet, loving cat weighing in at about 11 lbs. Phoebe is around 3½ yrs old. She loves to play with feather toys but will also enjoy sitting on your lap. She is UTD on all of her vaccinations and she tested Neg for FeLeuk/FIV. You can meet Phoebe Tuesday - Saturday from noon to 3 pm. You will not be disappointed.

COME SEE me for a NEW RIDE for the HOLIDAYS!

BROCK SPRUNGER

Sales Professional

FRANK BECK CHEVROLET — 3750 Carleton Rd, Hillsdale 517-849-2886 ext. 104 • Cell 517-403-2785 • brock@frankbeck.info

Unique Gifts They’ll LOVE

Without going to a big box store!

GIFT CERTIFICATES 34

107 E. Main St., North Adams Wed - Fri • 10 am - 6 pm | Sat. • 10 am - 2 pm

Deer Processing Custom Butchering

All cuts & products are Deer Drop Available QUALITY MEAT SUPERSTORE vacuum sealed!

After Hours

ORDER TODAY FOR YOUR HOLIDAY EVENTS!

Voted #1 Meat Processor!

Open 7 days a week!

BUCK Monday POLE STARTS NOV 15 - Friday 9am - 5:30pm Saturday 9am - 4pm Sunday 10am - 3pm

4880 Hudson Road osseo, MI 49266 517-523-2121

Bring in your deer for processing between Oct. 1 and Dec. 31 and be entered to win this 2019 Polaris Sportsman 570. Drawing will be Jan. 15, 2020.

MEAT BUNDLES STARTING AT $40 - GREAT GIFT IDEA!

Gift Certificates • Catering • Custom Butchering • Deer Processing Check Out Our Weekly Specials on Facebook at MMSmokehouse!

4880 Hudson Road, Osseo (M-34 at 99) • 517-523-2121

Home

HOLIDAY DECORATNG OUTSIDE YOUR HOME. Want to make the exterior of your home just as classically welcoming with holiday cheer as your interior? Check out these tips for giving your home’s landscape a festive, timeless look you’ll love.

Think Outside the Box While looking at the architecture of your house, consider a non-traditionally shaped wreath, such as a square boxwood wreath adorned with faux fruit and berries, and hang it on an angle. Sometimes this twist can bridge the season from Thanksgiving to Christmas and on into the New Year. A simple boxwood wreath with a blue or silver satin ribbon would be a welcoming Hanukkah touch.

36

Highlight the Yard’s Natural Beauty Illumination of a solitary tree in the landscape can make a subtle and elegant statement.

The Mariani firm suggests highlighting the natural structure of the tree with intricate branch wrapping. Be careful not to disturb spring blooming branches. Create a pathway of light that leads to your front door.

Give Guests a Welcoming First Impression Create an inviting holiday mailbox—a pretty swag of pine tied on with wire adds a seasonal flourish. Enhance it with red accents and pinecones.

Utilize Summer Planting Pots

Dress Up the Doorway

If the planters are weatherproof, the holidays are a great time to fill them with cut evergreen boughs, branches and berries.

Look around your yard and use found items such as pine, boxwood, yew, and holly, or try dried hydrangea flowers and seedpods. A winter display arrangement adds the finishing touch to your garden and looks beautiful under a light dusting of snow.

Use live trees to dress up your front entrance.

Smaller specimens, such as Frasier fir and Alberta spruce, are readily available in potted containers. Slip the tree into your existing pots and cover the edges with evergreen boughs. When the season is over, you will have a beautiful evergreen for that perfect spot in your garden—thus multiplying your investment.

Natural Beauty

Go with Garlands

Natural materials are the easiest to work with for an exterior display. Embellishments such as holly, berries, or small ornaments, add a punch of color. A bright red velvet bow on a fir wreath is a classic we love.

When the long nights of winter arrive, fresh evergreen garland draped on a front porch creates a traditional, polished look.

When lit with white lights, the garland creates a festive welcome.

FULL-SERVICE SALON:

Haircuts for men, women, and children highlights | colors | perms | facials up-dos | extensions | shellac massage | manicures | pedicures Gift certificates available

! s y a d i l o H y p p a H rls!

From all the gi

iaggio V

V

SALON

SPA

2370 Hudson Rd. | Hillsdale MI 49242 (517) 610-5869 | viaggiosalonspahillsdale.com

37

RESALE R S LE TRAIL RA L

ANTIQUES •CLOTHING • COLLECTIBLES • RE-PURPOSE

Adrian

TECUMSEH

Hitching Post Antiques Mall 1025 E. US 223 • Adrian Tue - Sat • 10 -5 517.266.0746 Donations and purchases help to build and repair homes in Lenawee County! Selling new and gently-used donated building supplies, appliances, and furniture

Reading 125 S. Main, Reading Fri & Sat • 9-5 517.283.1888 Clothes, household items, holiday decor, small appliances, books, movies, toys, games, and occasional vintage. All items are clean & cheap! Taking garage sale leftovers & estates.

BROOKLYN

IDK Creative Décor

146 1/2 N. Main St. (M-50) • Brooklyn Thur 10-6 • Fri 10-8 • Sat 10-6 517.938.8147 idkcreativedecor.com Vintage, Industrial, Antiques, Jewelry

HILLSDALE

THE CROW’S NEST

38

41 E. Bacon St. • Hillsdale Tue-Fri 10-5:30 • Sat 10-5 Closed Sun & Mon 517.917.6436 Home Decor, Antique & Handmade Items Like us on Facebook!

1322 E. Monroe (M-50 at M-52) Tecumseh • Open 7 Days 10-5:30 517.423.8277 hitchingpostantiques.com Over 8000 sq ft – Victorian, Military, Clocks, Glass, Estate Jewelry, Lighting & Lamp Parts

Antiques & Vintage On The Boulevard

138 E. Chicago Blvd. • Tecumseh Open 7 Days • M-Sat 10-6 • Sun 12-5 517.301.4747 antiqueboulevard@yahoo.com Primitives, Shabby Chic, Industrial, Home Décor, Painted & Finished Furniture, Architectural Salvage

HILLSDALE Hillsdale Community

THRIFT 390 W. Carleton • Hillsdale Mon-Fri 9-6 • Sat 9 - 4 • Sun 10 - 3 517.513.1729 www.hillsdalecommunitythrift.com New/gently used clothing for the family. Housewares, furniture, books, electronics, jewelry Donations are tax-deductible and accepted during business hours.

Non-profit helping the non-profits of Hillsdale County.

Family Store & Donation center 2940 W. Carleton, Hillsdale Mon -Sat 10 - 7 517.439.1202 New and gently-used items including clothing, housewares, home decor, furniture, books, collectibles.

Donations are tax-deductible & always accepted.

Tim Groves 517-398-1514

DENNY GROVES & ASSOCIATES DENNY GROVES Tim Groves Sherri Groves & ASSOCIATES 517-398-1514 517-398-2996

Denny Groves 517-849-2268

Tim Groves Tim Groves 517-398-1514 517-398-1514Groves Denny Groves Hayes Barb Groves BarbaraJessica Mary Brandeberry 269-788-8906 517-320-7325 517-320-7325 517-320-3466517-849-2268

She 517

Mike M 734-44

Sherri Groves

Alicia Edison Colleen Paulson 517-320-7018 330-416-6374

517-398-2996 Amy Howe Amy Howe 517-320-0663 517-320-0663

Alicia 517-3

DENNY GROVES DENNY Becky GROVES Dawn Crystal Stoner Spratt 517-3 Mike McCarthy Christina 517-320-2280 517-610-0067 & ASSOCIATES & ASSOCIATES 734-444-4449 517-42

Dennis Ireland Scott Phillips Christine Bowman Colleen Paulson 517-398-6036 330-416-6374 517-320-7917 Denny Groves 517-607-1713 Denny Groves 517-849-2268 517-849-2268

Tim Groves 517-398-151 Mary Brandeberry 517-320-3466

Christine Bowman Loretta Blank Rick Loretta Blank Spahr ChristinaAmy Cekander Howe ColleenRick Jessica Hayes René Barb Groves AliciaQuiggle Edison Amy Howe Becky 517-607-1713 517-320-0851 517-3 Paulson Barb Colleen Groves Paulson Jessica Hayes Mary Brandeberry 517-320-0851 517-425-1380 517-398-4461 330-416-6374 269-788-8906 517-320-0663 330-416-6374 269-788-8906 517-607-6394 517-320-7325 517-320-7018 517-320-0663 517-61 517-320-7325 517-320-3466

10

268 W. Carleton Rd. Hillsdale Office: 517-439-1511 Scott Phillips 517-320-7917

Mike McCarthy Dennis Ireland Scott Phillips 517-398-6036 734-444-4449 517-320-7917

Loretta Blank 517-320-0851

Christine BowmanLoretta Blank Becki Jager 517-607-1713 517-320-0851 517-250-7722

Offi www.homesofhillsdale.com

DawnBuehrer Buehrer Dennis Irelan Scott Phillips Dennis Ireland Each office is independently owned and Dawn operated.

517-398-0146 517-398-6036 517-320-7917 517-398-0146 517-398-6036

Christine Bowman

Mark Flanders 517-607-1713 248-403-5265

Jessica Hayes 269-788-8906

Rick Quiggle

Mary517-398-4461 Brandeberry Mary Brandeberry 517-320-3466 517-320-3466

BeckiG Denny 517-25 517-849

Crystal Barb G 517-32 517-32

10602 Leann B 268 W. Carleton Rd.268 W. Carleton Rd. SOMERSET Somerset Hillsdale HILLSDALE Hillsdale Leann517-900Blvd.

268 W. Carleton Office: Office: 517-439-1511 Office:Road 517-439-1511 C B G ROV E S . C OM 10602 Jerome Hillsdale 517-900-9175 517-439-1511www.homesofhillsdale.com www.homesofhillsdale.com Each office is independently owned and operated.

Each office is independently owned and operated.

Scott Phillips

517-320-7917

Dennis 517-39

Christmas time is here!

picks

WHO CAN RESIST THAT SNOWMAN SMILE? hungryhappenings.com

Let’s get the holidays started off right. These little cuties are simple to make and will be the hit of any party. We recommend not keeping these around for more than a day before eating them as they will get soggy from the berries.

GREAT IDEA TO KEEP THE KIDDOS BUSY! www.pinterest.com

lovelylittlekitchen.com/chocolate-covered-strawberry-christmas-trees/

SANTA CRUNCH CHRISTMAS POPCORN 40

www.twosisterscrafting.com

DIP MIX ORNAMENTS

www.bubblynaturecreations.com/2013/11/dip-mix-ornaments

WINTER FUN, ANYONE? Found on mylifeandkids.com

Marvelous Treasures Await!

Wednesday, Thursday 10-2 Friday, Saturday 10-4 517-639-2456 10 E Chicago St ~Downtown Quincy

The

Gift of

TIME

Looking for an affordable gift with a personal touch? You can find the best gift you will ever give without having to drive a single mile. No need to wait in line at the local department store, surf the web for hours or pay outlandish prices for a gift that is “all the rave”. In fact, the greatest gift of all will not cost you one red cent. This season give the special senior in your life a gift he/she will not soon forget. Give the gift of time.

The hustle and bustle of the season is upon us. So much to do, so many people to see, how will we ever finish everything in time?

With demands pushing, pulling and speeding us along, it is hard to remember that many seniors are lonely during the holidays.

They sit quietly as the next generation begins the annual struggle.

Wishing there was a demand being placed on their time. An event or errand that has to be completed or the holiday just won’t be the same.

We all know that time passes and generations change but how quickly we forget those who do not demand our attention. The ones that once took the time to teach us to tie a shoe or ride a bike.

This holiday give the gift of time to the special seniors in your life.

Here are a few ideas that have been proven to put a smile on the faces of everyone involved.

Gift Certificates Not the traditional kind that will buy an item in the store, these certificates are hand-made and include items such as a game night, a Saturday afternoon outing or a night of BINGO. Be creative, it doesn’t matter what the certificate is for, what you are really giving is your time.

Be a Santa’s Helper Visit your elderly neighbors and offer to do any outside chore that needs to be done. Even if you are not taken up on your offer it will be appreciated. Remember, seniors often do not ask for help. Only by you taking the first step will this be successful.

Be A Chauffeur Many seniors would love the opportunity to purchase gifts for the important people in their lives but lack the ability to go shopping on their own. Whether they are unable to drive or just can not handle the crowds, your offer to drive them may be just what they are looking for. Why not keep the gift going after the holidays and make it a regular visit to the grocery store?

42

Feed the birds It may seem a bit corny but many seniors love to spend time enjoying the outside air. Feeding the birds is a wonderful past time but many will not spend money on anything as trivial as

bird seed. A large bag of bird seed or a gift certificate to the feed store will bring hours of enjoyment.

The Gift of Beauty A regular visit to the beauty salon for a shampoo and set will do wonders for the self esteem of a senior. Not only will it make her smile when she looks in the mirror, it will give her the opportunity to have a conversation with someone other than family.

Say Cookies Have a baking day. Together you can make gifts to give to others and enjoy a wonderful day in the process. Here’s a suggestion... keep a pen and paper handy to write down any words of wisdom while you are baking. You never know what you will learn.

No matter what you decide is the best gift for the senior in your life, as long as you take the time to get to know them, it will be perfect.

Keep in mind our gifts are an indication of how well we know each other. Ask yourself which of these ideas would be the best for your grandma. If you don’t know the answer, just pick up the phone and invite her to dinner. You can figure it out over a big pot of chili.

Something Sweet for the...

Holidays Candy bouquets for everyone on your list!

CHECK OUT OUR HOLIDAY EVENTS Paw Patrol Christmas Dec. 6th & 7th GRINCHMAS Dec. 13th and 14th.

More information available online

Custom designs & bulk orders order early for Christmas.

COTTON CANDY MADE FRESH DAILY! CUSTOM MADE: CANDY BOUQUETS PARTY FAVORS GOODY BAGS WEDDING FAVORS CANDY CASES BULK CANDY: CHOCOLATE GUMMIES WRAPPED CANDY

Check out all our Sweet Stocking Stuffers!

Visit our website or Facebook page for more custom gifts !

4 S. Howell St, Hillsdale • 517.610.5403 Tue - Sat • 10 - 6 | Closed Sun & Mon | smalltownsweetboutique.com

NAME BRANDS: M&M COLOR WORKS JELLY BELLY SANDERS CANDY HAMMOND’S CANDY BARS ALBANESE GUMMIES TAFFY TOWN AND MORE!

HOLIDAY DIETING TIPS How to have fun and stay healthy

Whether you’ve already lost weight and want to maintain it or you are just beginning your weight loss journey, consuming sugary foods and other unhealthy carbohydrates this holiday season can stop your progress in a big way. Maintaining your nutrition goals during this time of year is more simple than it sounds, despite all the cookies, cocktails, and other temptations.

Here are some survival tips and recipes to help you stay on track this season: SET REALISTIC GOALS

With all of the sugary and carb-filled foods associated with the holidays, continuing to lose weight at the same pace will inevitably be more challenging. Setting New Year’s resolutions -- like maintaining the weight you’ve already lost -- can help you stay committed to your low carb lifestyle and avoid a feeling of failure.

WRITE IT DOWN

Studies have shown that people who keep food diaries during the holidays are better able to manage their weight.

Keeping up with your food journal will also help you stick to your holiday diet plan.

PLAN AHEAD

In the hectic weeks between Halloween and New Year’s Day, planning ahead is critical to successful dieting. Keep the right food in the house and make some great low carb snack recipes you can substitute for sugary seasonal offerings.

And plan on indulging, too! Cut back on other carb-filled dishes throughout the day so you can really enjoy the carbs you’re choosing to eat but still staying within your desired carb count.

44

SOCIALIZE INSTEAD OF SNACKING

The ultimate aim of holiday gatherings is to enjoy the company of your friends and family, so focus on socializing and sharing meaningful conversation rather than snacking. Standing at least an arm’s reach away from platters of food can also prevent unintentional grazing.

BRING YOUR OWN DISH

Holiday treats don’t have to be high in carbohydrates, and bringing your own dish to a holiday party means you’ll be guaranteed at least one healthy option.

INDULGE SMARTER

Skip the sugary holiday cocktails, have a low carb beer or glass of champagne in hand to celebrate without overdoing it. And, don’t forget to hydrate! Drinking plenty of water fills you up, helping to prevent mindless eating. If you need a little variety, try infusing your water with cucumber or lemon slices.

BE PICKY

Whether it’s roast turkey or a holiday ham, protein dishes keep you feeling full and generally contain fewer carbs. Steer clear of the empty carbs found in some of the other popular holiday dishes.

GIFT THE LEFTOVERS

If you’re hosting the big meal, send home leftovers as care packages with your guests. It will get excess food out of your house, and your friends and family will appreciate the delicious food for days to come.

BE KIND TO YOURSELF

If you commit to your usual healthy eating habits for most days of the week, you can slightly relax your diet some of the time without seriously impacting your weight. Give yourself some leeway to enjoy the holidays, and if you do overindulge, don’t beat yourself up or view it as an excuse to continue overeating. Get back on track, and avoid feeling guilty. Aim for as much consistency with your diet as possible, but remember that no one is perfect!

If you’re feeling overwhelmed thinking about sticking to your fitness goals this holiday season, remember that Christmas and New Year’s Eve are just one day each—not an entire season. Putting your low carb lifestyle on pause until after the holidays will only make getting back into the swing of things that much more difficult. This year, remind yourself that there’s no gift like good health.

Order your holiday arrangement today.

(517) 437-4485

www.smithsflowersmi.com

www.myturntodrive.com

106 N Broad St Hillsdale

Michigan may have four seasons ... but you should always be comfortable at home.

r family From ou s... to your

Happy s!

Holiday

D&D

Heating and Cooling

517-425-7628 David Dow - Owner

y adle r B Vera ton h Brig l Triba tones S o Sea Sunwo a Clar Pie e Mud J som NYD gan Awe i Mich ore ...

M And

BUYERS OF STANDING TIMBER G&D WOOD PRODUCTS SONS & DAUGHTERS INC. • 517-254-4463

Ladies, Is Your Wish List Ready For Your FAVORITE SANTA?

MEN’S DAY THU • Dec 19

MAGGIE ANNE’S www.facebook.com/MaggieAnnes

(517) 439-1334 | 50 North Howell • Hillsdale

45

City of Hillsdale and Hillsdale Elks Lodge 1575 Present:

2019

December 31

I

6 pm - Midnight

HILLSDALE COUNTY FAIR GROUNDS I HILLSDALE

Fireworks Show

Watch

Edwin the 4’ Penguin

waddle his way into the new year!

at t! h g i n Mid

SH Magazine

• Heated Beer & Wine Building • Skating Rink - 6-9 pm • Kid’s Activities - 6-9 pm • Caricature Pictures - 8-11 pm • Horse & Carriage Rides - 8-11 pm • Heated DJ Building - 9 pm - Midnight

A BIG thank you to our sponsors: County National Bank, EDC, Vested Risk Ins., Hillsdale BPU, Hillsdale College, Hillsdsale Hospital, Simply Hers Magazine, S I M P L Y

H E R S

Paragon, Hillsdale County Chamber of Commerce, Stillwell Ford Lincoln, Modern Waste Hillsdale Marketing, Edward Jones of Hillsdale County, DuPont, Public Title, Precision Metal Art, Hillsdale Terminal, Gleis, Small Town Sweet Boutique, Drews Place, Fleis & Vandenbrink, plus many more!

FOOD VENDORS AVAILABLE

46

For more info visit www.cityofhillsdale.org, follow us on FB, or call 517.437.6426

Trading in Memories FOR GIFTS

by Aimee Spencer Tiemann

Why are parents asking loved ones to cut back on gifts and trade them in for experiences?

My pride and joy, my nephew, Parker, was born seven years ago. Every year at the holidays, I would shop and shop and shop. Then I would wrap for days. I couldn’t wait to watch Parker feverishly tear through the wrapping paper to see what surprise was waiting for him. It was so exciting to see him tear through the sparkly paper and perfectlyconstructed bows and watch him get excited to see what coveted gift would be waiting in the box.

THE SHIFT

join me on my journey at www.aimeespencer.com, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/aimeespencertiemann, or on Instagram @aimeespencerttiemann111

Last year there was a shift. He would open the gift, look at it and have his crazy excitement for a second, then look at me asking where the next gift was?

In that moment, I realized the holiday was all about the quantity of things, not the quality of people surrounding him.

47

was born. And, well, he loves it. He loves spending time with his aunts and uncles, and he has opportunities to go and see new places with the people he loves the most.”

IT GOT ME THINKING I started thinking about the best gift I ever got as a kid on Christmas morning.

You know what I remembered, oh, that’s right, nothing.

In all my years of Christmases past, the only thing I remember is the time I spent with my family.

I remember Christmas Eve service, I remember Christmas caroling with my cousin in the freezing cold. I remember eating my aunt’s famous angel food cake, I remember being in the basement and hearing Santa on the roof with his reindeer every year, never understanding why I always missed him.

Was my friend right? Would experiences with the kids in my life make a bigger impact than buying the hottest gift of the year?

AND WHY WOULDN’T HE THINK THIS WAY . . . .

We have programmed kids to believe the hype.

The hype of Santa, the elves, the reindeer, and the workshop.

The hype of marketing and advertising at it’s best.

We didn’t prep children for what comes next. And what comes next is to continue to expect these grand gifts that really don’t provide a great deal of personal satisfaction after they’ve been revealed.

I WAS DEFEATED I left our Christmas gathering feeling defeated.

There was nothing special about the holiday. There wasn’t a memory made. There wasn’t any tradition in the making. It was an explosion of sparkly paper and, well, a million little pieces manufactured in China that 48

probably would never be put together.

Why? Because life would resume and the next best toy would be in his eyesight as he plotted for the next holiday.

I TOLD MY FRIEND The week after Christmas I went to lunch with a friend. I told him about my great disappointment.

My friend, a father of two under the age of five, looked at me and laughed. He quickly said, “That’s why I asked our family to give our kids experiences rather than JUST gifts.” I quickly fired off, “What is your two-year-old going to remember by having her aunts and uncles take her out?” He said in great confidence, “The same thing she will remember about opening a toy, nothing, she’s two. He went on to share, we made this request this five years ago when my son

I WENT TO THE SOURCE – MRS. CLAUS HERSELF Well, not really Mrs. Claus, but I did go to my friend’s wife to ask her about this giving an experience philosophy.

Catherine Tuczek of St. Clair Shores, Michigan, is a mom to Walter who is five and Carmen who is two and a half. She also works in education for Detroit Public Schools. “Our baby showers showed us our families are very generous,” Tuczek recollected. “The first and second Christmases, we knew we would have to limit the toys because we only have so much room in our small house.

More importantly, we wanted our kids to develop meaningful relationships with their aunts, uncles, and grandparents. We thought this could be one way.”

Tuczek was quick to tell me that it’s not just experiences over gifts or vice versa, it’s a healthy balance of both.

BUT, WHAT IF THE PARENTS AREN’T COMFORTABLE LEAVING THEIR CHILDREN WITH OTHER ADULTS YET? From the outside looking in as an aunt, this sounded incredible; however, my nephew is only with my brother two days a week. So, he loves his precious time with Parker.

INCLUDE THE PARENTS IN THE EXPERIENCE. Tuczek weighed in on this. “Sometimes we participate,” Tuczek said. “Last Christmas, with my husband’s sister’s family whose kids are the same age as ours, we did an outing. But, for my brother and sister, who don’t have kids, we try to send the kids to spend some one on one time with them. It allows a different kind of bonding opportunity—and gives my husband and me a little break!”

HOW DO YOU DECIDE WHAT KIND OF EXPERIENCE YOU WANT TO GIVE THE CHILDREN IN YOUR LIFE? Figure out what the child is excited about right now in his or her life, don’t guess at this. “One year, my sister took my son to Cranbrook just to see their dinosaur exhibits and activities,” Tuczek shared. “He loved it. The adults need to create and organize the outing. As an educator, I really want to expose my children to new things so they can, in fact, develop new interests. I know our relatives are not interested in going to Chuck E. Cheese and would rather take them to an experience that involves some learning. Talk to the parents and find out what the child is really into and start the research from there.”

IN TRUE SANTA FASHION, I IMMEDIATELY STARTED TO MAKE MY LIST AND CHECK IT TWICE This has weighed on my mind since last year; I’ve started planting the idea in all of my friends’ and family members’ ears. Some are super excited about this new plan and, well, some are nervous to hand their kid over for the day, and I am absolutely fine with that. My husband and I have already started looking at family passes to the zoo and museums in the area for the parents who don’t want this to be a solo outing. We’ve realized GROUPON has some most excellent adventures at a great discounted rate. Our goal this year is to figure out how we can start making our own memories and traditions for the children we’re so grateful to have in our lives.

What about you—will the Hatchimals Wow Re-Hatchable Egg top your list or is a trip to the local museum starting to sound like more of a plan?

Can’t wait to hear from you. Let me know at aimee@aimeespencertiemann.com.

Keep me accountable, join me on my journey this year at www.aimeespencer.com, on Facebook at www.facebook. com/aimeespencertiemann, or on Instagram @aimeespencerttiemann111 as my husband and I start to decide what experiential gifts and memories we are hopeful to create with our nieces and nephews this Christmas. I’d love to see and hear what you come up with.

FREE

In Hillsdale County with service repairs

TOWING

Use the hashtag #memoriesovermaterial Until next time— Aimee

800-351-5585 • 517-849-2886 • After 5 PM Towing 800-688-3166 HOURS: Mon - Fri 7:30-5:00 • Saturday 8:00-12:00 www.frankbeckchevy.com

49

Light up your season with the latest styles.

We are welcoming new patients for eye exams and full optical services at both Hillsdale and Homer locations. the ONLY Ophthalmologists in Hillsdale county...

YOUR VISION IS OUR FOCUS. HOMER OFFICE HOURS Tue & Wed 9 am - 4 pm 125 W. Main St. • Homer • 517-568-4411

Most major insurance plans accepted

Dr. David D. Gossage Comprehensive Ophthalmology

Dr. Karen M. Luparello Pediatric Eye Care & Adult Strabismus

Dr. Brad Runyon, OD Optometrist

HILLSDALE OFFICE HOURS Mon - Thur. 8 am - 5 pm • Friday 8 am - 4 pm 50 W. Carleton Rd. • Hillsdale • 517-439-2020

TURN UP THE HEAT THIS CHRISTMAS...

WE CARRY ALL THE HOTTEST BRANDS! FIRE CHIEF

Serving You For 39 Years!

gortonchimney.com Visit Our Showroom by appt only: 2951 E. Chicago Road • Jonesville

50

BRECKWELL PELLET

LARGE SELECTION OF

SALES/SERVICE/INSTALLATION JOTUL

ENVIRO GREAT GRILLS FOR CHRISTMAS!

CALL TODAY FOR AN APPOINTMENT!

Celebrate Winter in

MICHIGAN

Once all the colorful leaves have fallen and the crisp air is accompanied by a flurry of snowflakes, you know that it is officially winter in Michigan. As the peninsulas are blanketed with fresh, white snow, you’ll find that the Great Lakes state is the perfect place for winter wonderland adventures.

Whether you are looking to explore new holiday and seasonal traditions, experience an exciting winter event, try a new sport, or sit leisurely while you watch the snowfall through a train car window, there is something for everyone this winter in Michigan.

EXPERIENCE CULTURAL FESTIVITIES Michigan has events celebrating all different holidays and traditions to enjoy during the winter months. Start off by hearing the beautiful voices of the Mona Shores High School Choir in Muskegon as they form America’s largest singing Christmas tree at the Frauenthal Center for the Performing Arts. With its 25,000 colored lights, 15 tiers that reach 67 feet, and over 275 singers, the Singing Christmas Tree must be seen to be believed. Another holiday staple is Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland in Frankenmuth, the world’s largest Christmas store where aisles are packed floor-toceiling with decorations, light displays, and more than 350 fullydecorated Christmas trees.

Plan your winter adventure at Michigan.org

MENORAH IN THE D On the first day of Hanukkah, gather in Detroit for Menorah in the D to roast marshmallows, enjoy entertainment, and experience the lighting ceremony of the 26-foot Menorah. In Holland, explore the Dutch celebration of Sinterklass and walk through the Kerstmarkt, a European-style market filled with holiday items. In Hamtramck, celebrate the Polish tradition of Wigilia and enjoy the Szopka competition where competitors showcase stunning Polish nativity scenes.

51

PLAY IN A WINTER WONDERLAND For those looking to take the snow and ice in stride, Michigan has plenty of outdoor adventures, no matter your level of experience.

Start off with cross-country skiing through the Porcupine Mountains or along the historic paths of Fort Mackinac. For a thrill, hit the slopes of Boyne Mountain Resort or Crystal Mountain and test your skills on a downhill run. For those looking to try something new, head to Michigan Ice Fest in Munising where professionals and beginners alike take on some of the best ice climbing Michigan has to offer around the shores of Lake Superior.

Take a class from a pro or simply attend to watch -- but the festival is one you won’t want to miss as the Yooper culture and local festivities will make you want to come back every year.

So much of Michigan freezes over during the chilly months, and the lighthouses along the Great Lakes are no exception. When winter waves of the lakes crash against Michigan’s lighthouses, the iconic structures become beautiful winter castles encased in ice against a stunning snowy landscape. Please note to view these frozen marvels from land to stay safe and warm.

52

FAMILY-FUN ENTERTAINMENT Visit downtown Marquette in the Upper Peninsula this winter where spectators from all over gather to watch the exciting start of the UP 200—a premier 12-dog, mid-distance sled dog race that qualifies teams for the famous Iditarod. Mushers race through the snowcovered terrain of the UP wilderness, and spectators enjoy the local culture and cuisine while cheering on teams of furry, four-legged racers. Don’t leave the UP without checking out the Lights of Soo when all of Sault Ste. Marie, including the Soo Locks, twinkles in an array of holiday lights.

In the Lower Peninsula, the city of Rochester takes the holidays seriously with their Big, Bright Light Show. From sidewalk to rooftop, the storefronts of the city streets transform as they are lit by more than 1.5 million glimmering seasonal lights. To the west in Owosso, take a seat on the North Pole Express to create unforgettable family memories. The nostalgic Steam Railroading Institute’s holidaythemed train ride, pulled by the historic Pere Marquette 1225 Steam Locomotive, is complete with hot chocolate, a souvenir ticket and bell, and a stop at the Village of Ashley Country Christmas.

Everyone needs a little support!

53

Hot Chocolate Tablets

By Rachel Yoder

Ever since my favorite drinking chocolate mix stopped being made, I’ve been on a quest to find a replacement. I had tried all name and number of dry powdered hot chocolate mixes. I even made a few of my own, but nothing compared to the creamy texture and rich chocolate flavor of my drinking chocolate. One day I stumbled upon Abuelita’s Mexican hot chocolate drinking tablets in the grocery store and I had finally found what I had been searching for! It got me to thinking about making my own with different flavors and chocolates. I just love it when an idea pans out in real life, and I am very excited to share with you my recipe for hot chocolate tablets. I’ve included four flavors below but, really, the combinations are as endless as your palate. These little guys make a wonderful holiday gift for friends and family and recipients will love them—not to mention they are super quick and easy to make with ingredients and tools you already have!

SPECIAL EQUIPMENT: Double boiler: if you don’t have one, no problem! Simply sit a glass bowl on top of a small saucepan of water.

Boom! Instant double boiler.

TABLET MOLD: you will need some sort of mold to shape the melted chocolate mixture. A muffin tin with cupcake liners yields a perfectly-sized tablet. Silicone molds would work perfectly–just make sure they hold as much as a muffin cup. An ice cube tray can be used as well for smaller portions.

METHOD: Melt chocolate in a double boiler over medium/low heat; stir in the other ingredients. Pour into prepared molds to the top, then lightly tap pan on the counter to release any air bubbles and allow to harden. This recipe will yield 3 tablets. An 11.5-12 ounce bag of chocolate chips yields 6 tablets but make sure you also double the rest of the ingredients, too.

54

TO USE: Add 4 cups of your favorite milk (also works great with alternative milks) into a small saucepan and drop in one tablet. Warm milk over medium heat and whisk until no chocolate chunks remain, bring mixture to a boil, then immediately remove from heat. Some specks of chocolate will still remain giving it a beautiful rustic appearance. Pour into mugs and enjoy!. Tablets can be cut in half or quartered to make smaller batches.

Mocha 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips 3 tablespoons instant coffee ⅓ cup sugar

Cinnamon Bun 1 cup white chocolate chips 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon cinnamon ⅓ cup sugar

White Chocolate Peppermint 1 cup white chocolate chips 3 crushed candy canes ⅓ cup sugar

Spicy Hot Chocolate 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips 1 teaspoon cinnamon ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper ⅓ cup sugar

WHAT DO YOU GET SOMEONE WHO HAS IT ALL? WE'VE GOT YOU COVERED WITH THE PERFECT GIFT! Shop our full line of personalized and monogrammed metal art. Made from American steel, each piece is crafted with care at our facility in Hillsdale and powder coated for durability. Give your loved ones the perfect gift from Precision Metal Art.

USE CODE: SH30 Simply Hers readers get an exclusive deal.

Take 30% off of your order!

Shop online at www.precisionmetalartusa.com Visit our retail store at: 1252 E. Chicago Rd Jonesville, MI 49250

55

Cookies Around World The

by Rachel Yoder

In nearly every culture all around the world, one thing holds true: everyone loves a cookie. Cookies showed up in human diets almost as soon as flour and since then they have been made for celebrations and holidays to bring a little something sweet for kids and adults alike to enjoy. The word “cookie” is derived from the Dutch word koekje which means “little cake,” and it is only one term for these little treats. In the UK they’re referred to as biscuits, in Germany keks, in Spain galletas, and in Mexico as pan dulce meaning sweet bread.

Sugar as we know it originated in southeast Asia and was spread to Persia and the Mediterranean by Alexander The Great in 327AD after making contact with Asian sources of sugar. The earliest forms of cookies are thought to have originated around the 7th century AD in Persia, one of the first countries to cultivate sugar. The developing spice trade then brought sugar and Arabian spices to northern Europe, and, by the 14th century, small wafers were available in markets in Paris. These days there are so many cookie recipes out there it’s 56

impossible to count them all, and every country has its own variations. Here are just a few to try this holiday season to make your seasonal cookie plates interesting.

Polish Kolacky: There are many different recipes out there for kolacky; the variations seem to be regional and are found in long-time family recipes. You can expect a rich flaky cookie base accented by your choice of filling, typically jam or a sweet cheese.

Italian Anginetti: A light cookie with the brightness of lemon and topped with colorful sprinkles make anginetti a welcome change from the heavy and warmly-spiced assortment that is the norm this time of year.

Mexican Marranitos: Also known as puerquitos or cochinitos—all the names are different ways to say “little pigs”— these delightful little piggy cookies are flavored with molasses, ginger, and cinnamon and are sure to be a new favorite all winter long.

Dutch Speculoos: Expect this to become your new favorite rolled cookie.

Cardamom, ginger, and a subtle hint of clove give these cookies amazing flavor.

The dough is beautiful to work with and holds its shape while baking.

Russian Gribochy (mushroom cookies): Although the construction is a bit tedious, you will be rewarded with “WOW” when you present your cookie tray. The not-too-sweet cookies are “glued” together with chocolate and dipped in an orange flavored red glaze . . . you might want to hide some back just for yourself.

Chinese Peanut Cookies: If you love peanut butter, you’ll love this traditional Chinese cookie typically made to celebrate the Chinese new year.

Trevin Collection Sofa - $849.95

Matching Chair $499.95 Accent Chair $299.95

It’s all in the details, from the chic tapered legs to the clean lines and beautiful buttoned back cushions, the Trevin Sofa will be the centerpiece in any space.

This collection is the perfect mix of comfort and style.

Choose from an assortment of finishes for the tapered wooden legs and over 700 fabric options or select top grain leathers for endless customization possibilities.

All I want for

CHRISTMAS Brosmer Rocker Recliner $ 95

449

Patrick manual / Power $ 95 $ 95

649

749

This high leg recliner combines the best of both worlds, real world style of a wing back chair with the relaxation of a recliner.

Queen Bed $ 95

999

100% solid pine, great durability and value.

Two tone, multi-step lacquer finish. Tops feature weathered gray finish on hand-distressed wood.

Eggshell antiqued finish on the rest of the case pieces

Not only can you customize this in over 700+ fabrics or a diverse offering of genuine leather, but it’s available as a Space Saver®, Rocker, Swivel Rocker, Swivel Glider, Power Lift, Power Rocker or Power Space Saver® - both of which can come with a power adjustable headrest option.

Unique Birdhouse $ 95

49

Solid cedar Indoor/outdoor

Floor Clock $ 95

Large Selection of Lamps

www.kellysfurniturepittsford.com

1299

92ND ANNIVERSARY EDITION. Natural Gray finish on solid Hickory hardwood with knots, natural edges, and distressing.

57

POLAND: Ice Cream Kolacky or Kolaczki

ITALY: Anginetti Italian lemon cookies

INGREDIENTS 2 cups all-purpose flour 4 ounces (1/2 cup/1 stick) cold butter 1 cup vanilla ice cream (slightly softened) Fruit or sweet cheese filling of choice (favorite jams work well) Confectioners’ sugar

INGREDIENTS For the cookies ½ cup sugar 6 tablespoons unsalted butter at room temperature 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 teaspoon lemon zest, grated 3 large eggs 2 cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons baking powder For the icing 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter 1½ cups sifted powdered sugar 1 tablespoon water 1 tablespoon lemon juice colored sprinkles (optional)

(Recipe from The Spruce Eats) Yield: about 42 cookies

INSTRUCTIONS 1. In a large bowl, cut butter into flour as for pie dough until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Cut ice cream into small chunks and add to flour mixture. Cut in with a pastry blender until ice cream absorbs flour and dough binds together.

2. Knead dough in bowl 5 to 8 strokes or until smooth.

Divide dough into 2 equal-size pieces. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for several hours.

3. When ready to bake, heat oven to 400°. Roll out one piece of dough on a lightly floured surface to ¼” thickness. Cut with a floured 2½” plain or fluted round cookie cutter.

4. Place cookies on ungreased baking sheets, spacing about 1” apart. Spoon a level teaspoonful of filling onto the center of each cookie. Repeat with remaining dough and filling.

5. Bake 12-15 minutes or until cookies are golden. Remove from baking sheets and place on wire racks to cool completely. Store in an airtight container. When ready to serve, dust with confectioner’s sugar.

(Recipe from Cooking The Globe) Yield: about 20 cookies

INSTRUCTIONS THE ICING. Melt the butter over low heat. Add the sugar, lemon juice, and water. Whisk until the sugar melts. If icing is too thick, add some more water.

THE COOKIES: Preheat oven to 350°. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.

1. In a large bowl, beat together the sugar, vanilla, lemon zest, and butter with an electric mixer until well blended. Beat in eggs, one at a time. After adding all the eggs, beat for 1 minute more. Stir in baking powder and flour and blend just until mixed. Cover the dough and refrigerate for about 1 hour. The dough will be sticky, so we chill it to make it easier to handle.

2. To form the knots, roll pieces of the dough into logs about 5” long.

Take one side and spiral the log into a circle. Repeat until all the dough is used. Bake for 15-17 minutes or until light golden brown.

3. Remove cookies from the oven and let them cool. Brush the icing over the cookies. If using, top with colored sprinkles. Let the cookies to dry for about an hour. Store in an airtight container. Enjoy!

58

Offering our introductory truSculpt® iD pricing 50% lower than the national average!

UP TO 24% FAT REDUCTION

The body you want, down to the last curve.

• Fast, as little as 15 minutes • No surgery or needles • No downtime

• Clinically proven results • Comfortable, safe and effective • Latest technology available

Call today for a FREE consulattion.

(517) 398-6100 • 1600 S. Hillsdale Rd • Hillsdale www.hillsdalenaturalpaths.com

Give of Gift the

Award Winning Education

HILLSDALE COMMUNITY SCHOOLS 30 S. Norwood St., Hillsdale I (517) 437-4401 @HILLSDALECOMMUNITYSCHOOLS

I It’s always a great day to be a Hornet!

59

MEXICO: Marranitos Or Cochinitos Or Puerquitos

INGREDIENTS ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (about 1 stick) 1 cup dark brown sugar, packed 2 large eggs ¾ cup unsulfured molasses ¼ cup milk 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract 5 cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons ground ginger 1½ teaspoons baking soda 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon

(Recipe from The View From Great Island) Yield: source did not provide this ⅔ cup sugar INGREDIENTS 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon For the cookies ½ teaspoon ground cardamom ⅓ cup almond flour ¼ teaspoon ground cloves 2¼ cups all-purpose flour ½ teaspoon ground ginger ½ teaspoon baking soda 1 large egg 1⅓ sticks unsalted butter at room temperature (about 11 tablespoons) For the royal icing 2 egg whites (or you can use dried egg whites mixed with water according to the package) 2-3 cups confectioner’s sugar (add it in slowly, just enough so you get a spreadable consistency. Add more sugar for a stiffer icing. decorations, if desired Instructions Set oven to 350°.

INSTRUCTION 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper and set aside.

INSTRUCTION 1. Cream the butter and sugar together until fluffy. Beat in the egg.

Add the dry ingredients and mix well.

2. In the bowl of a stand mixer, cream butter until smooth. Add the dark brown sugar and mix until well combined. Add in one egg, molasses, milk and vanilla extract. Mix together until smooth.

2. Turn the dough out onto a board and bring together into one piece; if it’s crumbly, knead it a bit. Cut the dough in two and form flat discs, as if for pie dough. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour.

3. In a separate large bowl, add the flour, ground ginger, baking soda and cinnamon. Mix together to combine. Add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients 1 cup at a time and mix until well combined.

The dough should cleanly pull away from the mixing bowl.

3. Roll out the dough to your desired thickness and cut your cookies.

If you spray the inside of your cutters with cooking spray, they will release the dough more easily. Place the cut out cookies on a baking sheet lined with a Silpat mat or parchment.

(Recipe from Isabel Eats) Yield: about 28 cookies

4. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll out to ⅜” thickness (or a little less than ½”).

Use a pig-shaped cookie cutter to cut into pigs. (For reference, look at the Big Pig Cookie Cutter on Amazon.) Place pigs 1½” inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.

5. Whisk the remaining egg in a small bowl. Brush the beaten egg over the tops of the pigs using a pastry brush. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly browned.

60

HOLLAND: Speculoos Spice Cookies

4. Bake the cookies for about 10 minutes, depending on thickness, and cool on a rack. They won’t brown, and will firm up as they cool.

5. Frost with royal icing and add decorative sugars, etc., if you’d like.

6. To make the frosting, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form.

Add in the sugar, and beat well, until you get stiff peaks.

7. Transfer to a baggie with the edge clipped, or a pastry bag. Or, you can just spoon the icing over the cookies for total coverage like I did.

If the icing seems too thick, thin with a little warm water. Add in food coloring if you like.

D&S Lounge

4458 S Pittsford Rd, Pittsford • (517) 523-3146

WHEN WINTER IS TOO MUCH...

THE SOUP’S ON HERE!

Mom’s Diner Mom’s

BREAKFAST SERVED ALL DAY! Daily Specials!

Homemade Pies!

BUSY HOLIDAY SEASON?

JOIN US FOR SOME DELICIOUS FAMILY DINING WITHOUT THE HASSLE.

Gift Certificates Available

• BREAKFAST SERVED ALL DAY • Soup & Salad Every Day —Hot Bar Starts at 4:30 pm • Fri. 4:30-9 pm —BBQ Rib Buffet-All You Can Eat Fish • Sat. & Sun. 6 am - 12 pm —Breakfast Buffet • Sat. 4:30-9 pm —Seafood Buffet • Sun. 12 - 9 pm —3 Meat Buffet

Open 7 days • 7 am - 7 pm 517-448-8444 • 105 McKenzie St., Hudson (12 blocks East of US-127/M-34 intersection)

DINNER IS READY AT

• Wed. —Tacos $1.50 Each Open 7 Days • 6 AM - 9 PM 517-901-0360 • 135 E. Michigan Ave • Reading

THE GIFT OF

Home Cooked Meals Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner Daily Specials Available Thursday

Country Style BBQ Rib Dinner - $8.99

Friday

Fish & Shrimp Fry - $10.99

AYCE - $13.99

GOOD TASTE. Gift Certificates...

The perfect gift for any budget

Includes cottage cheese or coleslaw, roll, french fries or curly fries.

Saturday

Mexican Menu

Homemade desserts made daily!

Denise’s

DINER

M-W - 6 - 2 • Thurs - Sat - 6 - 8 105 S. Main St., Camden • 517-368-0099

FINISH LINE FAMILY RESTAURANT

75 W. Carleton rd • Hillsdale •(517) 437-3470 61

CHINA: Chinese Peanut Cookies (Recipe from Daily Cooking Quest) Yield: about 100 very small cookies

INGREDIENTS 3 cup roasted peanuts, ground 3 cup all purpose flour 3 sticks (1½ cup) butter, melted (**) 1 cup powdered sugar ⅛ teaspoon salt 1 egg yolk, lightly beaten INSTRUCTIONS 1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground peanuts, flour, sugar, and salt. Mix well. Slowly pour melted butter into the dry ingredients and mix until it becomes a smooth dough.

2. Pinch a small amount of dough (about 10 grams, or a heaping teaspoon), roll into a ball, and place on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Repeat until all dough is used up.

3. To make the indentation in the cookies, use any small, round tube.

4. Brush the top of the cookies with egg yolk.

5. Preheat oven to 340° and bake the cookies for 25 minutes until golden brown.

6. Let cool completely before storing.

NOTES (*) If you have raw peanuts you can roast them yourself. Preheat oven to 350°, then spread the peanuts on a baking tray in one layer. Cook in the oven for 20-25 minutes. Let the peanuts cool completely before grinding. (**) Traditionally, 1 cup of lard is used instead of butter.

62

RUSSIA: Gribochky

(Recipe from Cooking Melangery) Makes about 24 mushrooms INGREDIENTS For the dough: 2 cups all-purpose flour ½ cup cornstarch pinch of salt ½ teaspoon baking powder 1 stick (8 tablespoons) butter 1 cup sugar 1 large egg ½ cup sour cream 1 teaspoon vanilla extract INSTRUCTIONS

FOR THE GLAZE: 1 cup confectioners’ sugar, sifted 1-2 tablespoons orange or lemon juice or milk (more if needed) red food coloring (optional) confectioner’s sugar for dust (optional) 4 oz. semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, chopped

1. Preheat an oven to 350°F. Line large baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. To make the cookies, sift together the flour, baking powder, cornstarch, and salt over a sheet of waxed paper, and set aside.

3. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the butter and sugar until creamy. Add the vanilla, egg, and sour cream and continue beating until blended, 1 to 2 minutes more, stopping the mixer occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl. Add flour mixture and mix until blended.

4. With floured hands, shape half of the dough into 24 mushroom caps/balls (about 0.7 oz each) and place them on the prepared sheets, spacing them about 1” apart. You can put 12 on one baking sheet. Shape the rest of the dough into 24 mushroom stems, (about 0.5 oz each). You can put the “caps” on one sheet and “stems” on another.

5. Bake two sheets at a time until the cookies are just beginning to brown, about 10-12 minutes, switching the pans and rotating a half turn halfway through baking.

Transfer the baking sheets to wire racks and let the cookies cool on the sheets for 5 minutes. Repeat with two more baking sheets.

6. Place the chocolate in the top pan of a double boiler or in a heatproof bowl.

Place over but not touching simmering water in the bottom pan. Heat, stirring frequently, until melted and smooth. Remove from the heat.

7. While the cookies are warm, poke a small hole in the bottom of a mushroom cap. Spread chocolate over the bottom of the cap. Dip the tip of a stem in chocolate, and press lightly into the hole. When the chocolate sets, they will hold together. Repeat with remaining pieces. If desired, you can dip the base of the stems in chocolate as well, as shown in the photo.

8. To make the glaze, mix together the confectioner’s sugar and juice or milk in a small bowl until smooth. Stir in one drop of food coloring at a time until the desired shade is reached. Glaze the mushroom caps with sugar glaze and let it dry.

9. Dust the cookies with confectioners’ sugar shaken through a sieve.

Perennial Park Fitness Center

Be sure your tires are ready for winter.

• Offering a wide variety of equipment and classes.

• Certified Personal Trainers on Staff

PITTSFORD GAS & TIRE

(517) 523-2438 | 4536 South 1st St., Pittsford

SANDY’S AMERICAN AUTO DETAILING ~By Appointment Only~

NOW SELLING PRAIRIE BUILT BARNS BUY - RENT - OWN NO CREDIT CHECK

Park & Sell Your Vehicle — Call for Details

Gift Certificates Available

2768 Carleton Rd • Hillsdale • 734-787-6140

• The Fitness Center is open to community members 13 years of age and older.

• 1-yr., 6-mo., and punch-card memberships available.

• Please call, visit our web site, or stop by for more information.

Hours: Mon.-Thu. 6 am-7 pm Fri.- 6 am- 5 pm Sat.- 8 am- 12 Noon

New Classes Added!

- Ropes - Cardio Drumming - Golf Conditioning Clinic

Perennial Park Fitness Center 517.437.2422 | 800.479.3348 320 West Bacon Street, Hillsdale www.hillsdaleseniors.org

At Hillsdale College, you are always welcome.

Join us for lectures, athletic events, fine arts exhibits, theater, music performances, recreation, or a meal—just a short trip up the hill.

To stay informed about events and activities at Hillsdale College, please sign up for our monthly community e-newsletter, please visit hillsdale.edu/community.

63

DIP FUN INTO SOME

One thing the holidays bring to so many of us is guests! Whether it’s a quick gettogether or an extended stay, we often need food ideas to enhance our entertaining, and dips are a universal favorite. Here’s a collection of recipes to brighten your table this season. We’ve included a sweet dip that pairs beautifully with crisp apple slices!

Roasted Red Pepper and Cannellini Bean Dip

¼ cup chopped fresh basil 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar 1 (16-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained 1 (7-ounce) bottle roasted red bell peppers, rinsed and drained 1 large garlic clove 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Place the first five ingredients in a food processor; process until smooth. With processor on, slowly add oil through food chute and process until incorporated. Stir in salt and black pepper. www.myrecipes.com

Pumpkin Dip

¾ cup (6 ounces) 1/3-less-fat cream cheese (use full-fat, if you prefer) ½ cup packed brown sugar ½ cup canned pumpkin 2 teaspoons maple syrup ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon 24 apple slices Place the first three ingredients in a medium bowl and beat with a mixer at medium speed until well blended. Add syrup and cinnamon and beat until smooth. Cover and chill 30 minutes. Serve with apple slices or other fruit you think will pair well. www.myrecipes.com

64

Save the Date YOUR BIG DAY

Wedding 20% OFF*

Any In-Store Item Specializing in Custom Gifts for

Any Occasion! *Exp 12/24/19

Expo

Warmest Wishes for A Merry Christmas!

Jilly Beans/Jilly Beans Too HILLSDALE 2 N. Howell St. | 517.437.3338 Mon - Fri • 6:30-6 Sat 7:30-5 • Sun 8-3

JONESVILLE 245 W. Chicago | 517.437.3338 Mon - Fri • 5:30-5 Sat 7:30-5 • Sun 8-3

yourbigday weddingexpo.com

saturday january 11, 2020 noon-3pm adrian armory 230 w. maumee st.

Hours: Tues-Fri 10-5 Saturday 10-3

517-306-6021

217 W. Main St. • Hudson silverandrusthudson.com

$5 Entry 517.902.9945

The Holidays...

Brought to Life!

The

Posy Shop W W W.POSYSHOPHUDSONMI.COM 109 LANE ST • HUDSON • 517.448.5911

LEAVE THE HOLIDAY STRESS BEHIND...

JOIN US FOR

DINNER!

CATERING AVAILABLE

North Adams Coffee Shop

119 W Main St, North Adams • (517) 287-5711 65

Tex-Mex Beef and Bean Dip

½ pound ground sirloin 2 tablespoons no-salt-added tomato paste 1 to 2 teaspoons chipotle chile powder ¾ teaspoon ground cumin 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained ¾ cup (3 ounces) crumbled queso fresco ¼ cup thinly-sliced green onions Cook beef in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until browned, stirring to crumble. Drain well; return beef to pan. Add tomato paste and next four ingredients (through diced tomatoes) and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer five minutes or until thick, stirring occasionally. www.myrecipes.com

Spoon meat mixture into a serving bowl; top with crumbled cheese and green onions. Serve with tortilla chips.

CREAMY GARLIC-HERB DIP

½ cup (4 ounces) 1/3-less-fat cream cheese, softened (use full-fat, if you prefer) ¼ cup buttermilk 2 tablespoons minced fresh chives 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley 1 teaspoon grated lemon rind ¼ teaspoon salt ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 small garlic clove, minced Combine all ingredients in a bowl and beat with an electric mixer for two minutes, or until smooth.

Best Baked Biscuit Wreath Dip

1 can refrigerated biscuits extra-virgin olive oil, for brushing biscuits ½ c. plus 1 tbsp. grated Parmesan 2 c. shredded mozzarella 1 c. ricotta

www.myrecipes.com

¾ c. frozen spinach, defrosted andchopped ¼ c. mayonnaise 2 tsp. garlic powder 1 tsp. kosher salt Crushed red pepper flakes, for garnish

Preheat oven to 350°. Halve biscuits and flatten each one out, then roll into a ball and place in an oven-proof skillet seam side down. Arrange in a ring around the skillet. Brush biscuits with olive oil and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon Parmesan.

In a large bowl, combine Parmesan, mozzarella, ricotta, spinach, mayonnaise, garlic powder, and salt; mix until combined. Spoon dip into the center of the skillet and sprinkle with red pepper flakes. Bake until warmed through, bubbly, and golden, 25 to 30 minutes. Serve hot. www.delish.com 66

OPEN AT 7 AM ON SAT & SUN FOR BREAKFAST!

HOLIDAYS ARE HARD. WE’RE EASY....

Perfect for small family gathering or office parties for the holidays!

27 BEERS ON TAP! Here’s To You

OPEN 7 DAYS

facebook.com/sheananigans |

517-448-1070 • 521 S Meridian Rd • Hudson

Open @ 10:30 am

Gift Certificates

Mon-Sat 11am-2am, Sun 12pm-12am

PUB & GRUB 45 North St., Hillsdale

(517) 437-4002

The gift of SAFETY for the ones you LOVE. New Tire Sales & Installation GENE’S SERVICE

17 Hillsdale St. | Hillsdale | (517)439-1221 | M-F 8-5

General Auto Repair Call today to reserve one of our banquet rooms for your holiday gathering.

Winter Classes Forming Now! Check out our calendar of events at hillsdalecraftsupply.com/calendar

Ask about our customer discount program.

... Here it’s ALWAYS Grillin’ Weather!

perfect pumpkin pie!

314 S. Main St., Hudson ·(517) 448-7675 • Mon-Sat 6-2 • Sun 7-2

U.S. 12 & U.S. 127 • CEMENT CITY • 517-547-8777

67

Christmas Concoctions Delightful Drinks sure to aDD a touch of taste to any holiDay event.

Candy Cane Martini 1 1/2 oz Vodka 1/2 oz triple sec 2-3 oz white cranberry Shaken into a cocktail glass with red/white sugar rim and candy cane garnish

68

White Reindeer 1 1/2 oz. of vodka 1 1/2 oz Classic 3 oz Amarula 1/4 oz creme de cacao On the rocks in a rocks glass Add your vodka, Amarula and creme de cacao to a shaker filled with ice. Shake and pour into a tumbler. Serve with chocolate covered peppermint stick for added flavor.

Irish Creme Holiday Martini 2 oz. of Irish Cream liqueur 1/4 oz. of vodka 1/4 oz. chocolate liqueur A few raspberry Add your Irish Cream, vodka and chocolate liqueur to a shaker filled with ice.

Shake and strain into a martini glass. Garnish with raspberrys (optional).

Recipe from Rachel Ray.com

Gingerbread Man Martini 2 oz. of gingerbread flavoured liqueur 2 tsp. of vodka 2 tsp. of Kahlua 2 tsp. of Irish Cream liqueur 2 gingerbread cookies, crumbled 1 gingerbread cookie, to serve canned whipped cream (optional Dip a martini glass in water and then into the crushed gingerbread biscuits. Pour all the liqueurs into a shaker, and shake well. Pour into the martini glass and top with a squirt of whipped cream and the leftover gingerbread biscuit. (Adapted from Outback.com)

69

2019

11/8-11/11 Yuletide Cheer, Blissfield

HOLIDAY FESTIVALS & EVENTS

11/9 Holiday Marketplace, Grand Haven

With the holiday season comes an explosion of festivals and special events across Michigan. Here is a partial (yes, partial!) list of things to do during the next two months.

Many of these events have multiple attractions. Tree lighting ceremonies often include group carol singing, special refreshments, and holiday markets. Larger festivals may offer sleigh rides, appearances by Santa, special dining and shopping, home tours, and more.

There’s also an amazing number of arts and crafts shows, parades, and musical and theatrical events throughout the state. For a more complete list, visit www.michigan.org/events. You can search by date, name, and/or locations. (Note: this function may not be available on mobile devices.) Most events include clickable links for detailed information.

As always, we recommend checking the event’s current online information before heading out!

11/16 Holiday Open House, Holland 11/16-1/5 Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo (not open every day in date range; check site)

Holidays in the Heart of the City, Saginaw Luminary Festival, St. Joseph White Lake Holiday Walk, White Lake

11/29 Holiday Parade, Charlevoix Christmas Candlewalk, Chesaning Holiday Celebrations & Candlewalk, Frankenmuth

11/23 Festival of Lights, Big Rapids

11/29-12/1 Christmas Tree Festival, Monroe

11/23-12/14 Kerstmarkt, Holland

11/19 The Art of the Holidays, Coldwater

11/23-12/30 Wonderland of Lights at Potter Park Zoo, Lansing Marshall’s Merry Mile Light Display (Wed-Sun only), Marshall

11/20-1/6 Christmas & Holiday Traditions Around the World, Grand Rapids

11/25-1/5 Downtown Rochester Big Bright Light Show, Rochester

11/22 Light Night, Grand Haven Silver Bells in the City, Lansing (includes lighting the state tree)

11/28-12/31 Nite Lites at MIS, Jackson

11/29-12/15 Holly Dickens Festivals (weekends only, check site) 11/29-12/29 Christmas at Crossroads Holiday Magic, Flint 11/30 Holiday Lights, Buchanan City of Lights Parade, Lowell 11/30-12/23 ZooLights at Binder Park Zoo (Fri-Sun only), Battle Creek

IT’S OUR

SIMPLY HERS published the first issue in November of 2010, and we’ve been moving full steam ahead ever since.

We put out six issues a year, with a distribution of 10,000 copies. We have doubled in page count and serve Branch, Hillsdale and Lenawee counties.

Those are exciting statistics, but let’s get down to the REAL reason we have to celebrate- YOU!!

YOU are the heart of what we do every day. We are honored to highlight community members and promote your local businesses. We are humbled that our readers continue to pick up Simply Hers so we can share a laugh, important life information, shopping resources, recipes, crafts and more. You are our neighbors and friends. We take very seriously the responsibility to bring you our best effort in each and every issue. So, it’s not just coming up on a happy birthday to us, it’s THANK YOU to you! it’s all about him

EVERYTHING MEN

SUMMER 2019

Kimball Camp a safe, secure environment where children can try new things.

JBL

BRIDAL

Fall/Winter 2019

COMPANY

PAIN-FREE DAYS BEGIN HERE

NEW YORK STYLE

WITH SMALL TOWN SERVICE

HILLSDALE HOSPITAL treats you like family

Talk Beer like a Pro

vaping

PLUS

WEDDING TRADITIONS

on the rise among teens

THE INSIDE SCOOP ON THE FALL’S BEST GOLF

70

BRI

2020

We are planning some fun ways to celebrate as we approach our 10th anniversary, so please continue to pick up the magazine and stay connected on Facebook. This ride isn’t over…. do we smell birthday cake?!

surviving the empty nest

AND THEIR MEANINGS

DIY

plus

Wild Game Recipes for the Fall

apps that give your summer

WEDDING FAVORS & MORE!

spark 1

FREE

Photo by Holly Clark Photography Flowers by Flowers & Such

12/1 Winter Holiday Festival, Augusta

12/6-12/7 Promenade Candlewalk Home Tour, Tecumseh

12/2 Marshall Christmas Parade, Marshall

12/7 Light Up Parade, Hillsdale Reindog Parade, St. Joseph Christmas Tree Lighting & Parade, Saline Holiday Festival, Hidden Lake Gardens, Tipton

12/5-12/7 America’s Tallest Singing Christmas Tree, Muskegon 12/5-12/28 Holiday Nights at Greenfield Village (not open every night in date range, check site) 12/6 Holiday Light Parade and tree lighting, Adrian Sinterklaas Eve Procession, Holland Hudson Community Christmas Cantata, Hudson Christmas Parade, Tecumseh

it’s all about him!

EVERYTHING MEN

S I M P LY H E R S M A G A Z I N E

FREE

spring/summer 2018

SH NOV/DEC 2019

IDES

S I M P L Y

12/7-12/8 Christmas on the Farm, Grass Lake Candlelight Walk, Marshall

12/21 Winter Solstice Celebration, Midland 12/31-1/1 New Year’s Bash, Hillsdale Eve on the Ave, Jackson

Holiday Apps

TRACKING SANTA NORAD Tracks Santa Claus is a cute app that shows Santa’s location on the map and distance to your home, how many sleeps until Christmas, and Santa’s Status Check—what is he up to today?

Available for Android and iOS, free.

COUNTING DOWN Christmas Countdown (Jack McLean) offers a countdown plus a variety of backgrounds, Christmas music, and you can “open” a gift each day during Advent.

Available for Android & iOS, free.

12/7-12/8, 12/14-12/15 Little River Railroad Holiday Express, Coldwater 12/8 Christmas in the Village, Okemos 12/8, 12/14-15 Evening of Lights, Hidden Lake Gardens, Tipton

it’s a woman thing!

BRANCH/HILLSDALE/LENAWEE

SH S I M P L Y

H E R S

H E R S

2018 — Complimantary

SH S I M P L Y

*BECKER AND SCRIVENS

LISA SLADE PASSIONATE ABOUT SERVING GREAT FOOD TO THE COMMUNITY

MARLANEA McGRAW

KEGAN KARES

DIY

SIMPLY HERS MAGAZINE

LOCAL STUDENT GIVES BACK

BEAUTY RECIPES

PLUS

FASHIONABLE WRAPS FOR WINTER WEATHER

SURVIVING HOLIDAY GRIEF

plus

plus

FRANK BECHLER — THE MASTER OF MOWERS

HILLSDALE/LENAWEE/BRANCH

BRANCH/HILLSDALE/LENAWEE

2019 HOLIDAY SURVIVAL GUIDE

THE FINISH LINE

FROM BACON TO BREWS TREATS EVERY GUY CAN MAKE AT HOME

it’s a woman thing!

H E R S

LOCAL GYM OWNER COMPETES IN STRONgMAN COMPETITION

Ready to expand across state lines with A second location

COMPLIMENTARY

12/14 Old-Fashioned Christmas Horse Parade, Lexington

NOV/DEC 2019

12/3 Downtown Parade of Lights, Holland

12/13 Wassail Festival, Blissfield

MICHIGAN HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS

FREE1

GREAT HOLIDAY RECIPES

71

FREE1

You Always Have A Choice.

Rehabilitation Cottage is open for Short Term Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapy as well as Long Term Residents OFFERING: • 10 private bedrooms with private bath and shower, • Country setting with wildlife viewing in 2 courtyards • Easy access to the outdoors • Free Wi-Fi

HILLSDALE COUNTY

CMS Five Star Certified Rating!

MEDICAL CARE REHABILITATION COTTAGE facebook.com/

Claudia Glen’s Healing to Home 517.439.9341

| 30 Care Drive, Hillsdale, Michigan 49242 | www.hillsdalemedicalcare.org