Marlanea McGraw Owner/Publisher
from the publisher
As summer settles in, there is something special about these long, sun-filled days. From backyard barbecues and family vacations to evenings spent watching fireflies dance across the yard, the season invites us to slow down, reconnect, and appreciate the simple joys that make life meaningful.
For many, summer is centered on family. It is a time for gathering around the table, making memories with children and grandchildren, supporting local events, and embracing the beauty of the communities we call home. These moments may seem small, but they are often the ones we cherish most.
In this issue, we are proud to feature Stillwell Ford on our cover. For generations, the business has been a trusted part of the community, serving local families with dedication, integrity, and a commitment to excellence. We are honored to share its story and celebrate the role it continues to play in keeping our communities moving forward.
As always, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our advertisers. Their continued support makes Simply Hers possible. By investing in local media, they help us share inspiring stories, spotlight community businesses, and provide a publication that remains free for our readers. I encourage you to support the businesses featured in these pages. They are the backbone of our local communities.
Whether you are enjoying a weekend at the lake, tending a garden, planning a family gathering, or simply finding a quiet moment to yourself, I hope this issue brings inspiration, encouragement, and a reminder to savor all the beauty summer has to offer.
Thank you for reading and for being part of the Simply Hers family.
Wishing you a wonderful summer,
Automotive runs in the family for Eric and Nicole at Stillwell Ford, where they’re dedicated to serving Hillsdale and the surrounding communities with trusted vehicles and dependable service. Read more on page 10.
Summer Picnic Hits!
Please thank our ADVERTISERS
Without their continued commitment & support, this publication would not be possible.
517 Thrift Shop - 87
AB Collective Photography - 7
Advanced Autometrics - 2
All Aboard Travel - 51
Allen Antique Barn - 37
Arrow Swift Printing - 27
Becker & Scrivens Concrete - 80
Belson Asphalt - 63
Bildner & Donahue, PC - 62
Birdie’s & Howell Custom Framing - 69
Brandy Titus / Karla Mullaly -
Southern Michigan Bank & Trust - 57
Burdick’s Kitchen & Bath - 42
Carpet Outlet Plus - 71
CASA - 7
Cavoni’s Pizza - 48
Christie Plemmons Realty - 92
City Collision - 61
Classic Cabinets - 94
Christian Care Connection LLC - 65
Coldwater Auto - 68
Coldwell Banker
Groves Real Estate - 8
Cottage Inn Pizza - 37
County National Bank - 80
Country Carpets - 62
Day’s Inn - 61
Devils Lake Living - 59
D&D Heating & Cooling - 62
Dice Roofing - 29
DMCI Broadband - 59
DP Equipment - 27
Double A Lawnscape - 5
Drew’s Place - 49
Eagle Funeral Homes - 55
El Cerrito Mexican Restaurant - 35
Empowered Image Consulting - 17
Edward Jones / Waldvogel
Wealth Management - 55
ExtrOdinary Solutions - 31
Farm Bureau Insurance
McGraw Agency - 85
Family Life Radio - 19
G & G Glass - 31
Gene’s Auto Service, LLC - 37
Glory to God - 38
Green Energy LP - 53
Griffiths Mechanical - 39
Hampton Funeral Homes - 53
Hawkins Auto Sales - 38
Handmade by Sherry - 43
HD Mechanical - 27
Heffernan Soft Water / Tri County Water - 67
Helping Hands Preschool & Childcare Center - 31
Hillsdale County Community Foundation - 32, 33, 34
Hillsdale County Fair - 93
Hillsdale County Medical Care Facility - 66
Hillsdale County Veteran Affairs - 69
Hillsdale Community Library - 7
Hillsdale Family Chiropractic - 43
Hillsdale Gymnastics - 93
Hillsdale Natural Grocery - 48
Hillsdale Towing - 2
Hospiice of HIllsdale County - 43
Irish Hills Firearm Outfitters - 45
I’ve Been Framed! - 45
Jefferson Township
Trash & Recycling Center - 48
Jilly Beans Coffee House - 55
Johnny T - 53
Jonesville Lumber - 89
June’s Place - 55
Justin Price AgencyFarmers Insurance - 59
Kelly’s Furniture - 27
Leigh A. Raddatz, CPA and Co. LLC - 27
Life Changing Church - 57
Lifeways - 31
Local BUZZ Radio - 61
Lone Ranger Cafe - 81
Lorrie Miller Law - 69
Madison Garden Center - 73
Mindy Shoemaker, Viaggio Salon - 17
Mobile Shrinkwraping - 65
Paige Jameson NP - 25
Pattys Bridal - 45
Pediatric Place - 7
PRIME Fitness - 23
Professional Hearing Services - 51
Pub & Grub - 43
Rosalie’s Roadhouse - 63
Ryan & Bradshaw - 65
Sophia Frigerio
Design & Photography - 31
Shea’ Nanigans - 62
Shear Heaven Salon & Spa - 43
Spring Branch Academy - 59
State Farm Insurance
Jason Adcock - 57
Stillwell Ford - SALES - 12, 13
Stillwell Ford - 41
Ten East Treasures - 68
The Finish Line - 23
The Oak’s Tavern - 38
The Sauk - 83
Todd H. Ryan, D.D.S. - 66
Top Notch Tree Service - 38
Trevathan’s Sweep & Sew - 48
Truck Shop - 93
The Livery - 37
The Sparrow’s Nest - 37
Watkins Fence - 81
WCSR / The DALE - 23
Woods Of Lochaven - 3
Stillwell Ford
Everything they do is driven by you!
DBy Sarah Gray
riving around southern Michigan, most drivers will encounter a stillwellford.com sticker on the back of a vehicle or two. Or three. Or four.
Stillwell Ford has been a staple of the community for 60 years and continues to provide top quality vehicles and service to each and every customer.
“We take care of our customers,” says owner and dealer principal Eric Hoffman. “Most of them become customers for life.”
Which is no small task in the ever-changing automotive world where cars can now be delivered like groceries. Eric is quick to give credit for the loyalty of Stillwell Ford’s customers to his employees and their work ethic.
“I have the best staff in the world,” he says.
The employees are dedicated and stay with the dealership, with the longest-serving employee working for over 40 years for Stillwell Ford.
“We have a great team that cares about what they do, and the
customers like that,” Eric explains.
But a team is only as committed as their leader. Even though he is the owner of the dealership, Eric knows what goes on in every department of his business. That is due to the training he received before taking over Stillwell Ford from his father-in-law Charlie Holton.
After receiving a degree in construction management from Michigan State University, Eric, and his wife Nicole moved to Columbus, Ohio for four years. When they decided they wanted to start a family, they knew they wanted to come home. Eric and Nicole both grew up in Hillsdale County and wanted their children to do the same.
“It’s a great place to raise a family,” Eric says.
It was around this time that Eric’s father-in-law, Charlie, began thinking about retiring. He decided to sell the dealership to his daughters Michelle and Nicole in 2000. Eric began the process of learning what it takes to run a car dealership. Ten years ago, Eric and Nicole bought the other half of the business from her sister Michelle.
Eric fully admits he is not a “car guy,” but during the five years he worked at Stillwell Ford, before taking over as general manager, he learned the ins and outs of every department. He spent a year attending the National Automotive Dealers Association Academy in the Washington, D.C. area, where he worked in sales, parts and
service.
All that training led to an appreciation of what his staff does on a daily basis for Stillwell Ford customers. Throughout the week, Eric walks around every department, talks with sales staff, technicians, body shop crew, and customers about everything from how their day is going to how the dealership can be improved.
“I like interacting with people,” he says. “I like to walk around the dealership and talk to everyone. I enjoy the people.”
Good people who also have good ideas. That stillwellford.com sticker everyone sees around town? That was the idea of a Stillwell Ford employee.
The dealership has had to adapt and shift many times under Eric’s leadership. Eric stays on top of the industry’s advancements. He is investing in the future of the dealership by investing in his employees. Stillwell Ford employs current and future graduates of the Ford ASSET (Automotive Student Service Educational Training) program. This two-year program pairs students with dealerships for hands-on, paid work experience. Stillwell students attend Henry Ford Community College for six to eight weeks and then spend six to eight weeks working at the dealership. After they graduate and work at the dealership for five years, they can become Ford Senior Master Technicians. Stillwell Ford currently has seven employees who have completed or are enrolled in the
Due to the increase in business, Stillwell Ford has expanded its service department by adding “Mobile Service” and moving the body and detail shops into the building on newly purchased property next to the main building. Stillwell Ford is the only Ford dealership in Michigan selling Hennessey vehicles, a well-known elite performance upfitter for Ford vehicles.
Co-owner Nicole Hoffman keeps very busy herself, overseeing the online presence of both businesses, while maintaining an active role on the Hillsdale Community Schools Board of Education.
Eric and Nicole’s plans are to keep the dealership in the family. Their son, Taegan, is following in his father’s footsteps by working in all the departments to fully understand the business.
As if running a dealership wasn’t enough, Eric and Nicole also own the Woods of Lochaven—a luxury condominium community in Hillsdale. The development is currently about 50% complete and most of the condos that have been built are occupied.
“There was a need,” Eric explains. “Some people do not want or aren’t able to maintain outdoor space.”
All that is included for the residents of Lochaven. The development offers two sizes of condominiums—a 1,775 square foot home with a crawl space, or a 3,500 square foot home with a basement.
Located at 2001 Barnard Rd. in Hillsdale, the development has a beautiful, serene setting among mature trees with a walking path connecting to Baw Beese Trail.
Nicole helps with the design of the condos, while plans are underway to start building out more of the development by the end of the summer.
Those interested in learning more about the Woods of Lochaven can email Eric or Nicole at woodsoflochaven@gmail.com or visit the website woodsoflochaven.com.
Looking for a new or used vehicle? Visit stillwellford.com to see a complete list of inventory or, better yet, stop into Stillwell Ford and look around in person. Visitors may even get a chance to meet the dealership mascot—Eric and Nicole’s three-year-old French bulldog, Ziggy. At Stillwell Ford, Everything They Do Is Driven By You.
Christian Image Consultant MindySHOEMAKER SHOEMAKER
Celebrate Recovery
By Elyse Apel
Life gets heavy for everyone at times.
For many people, the hardest part isn’t naming their struggle, it’s knowing where to take it. In Hillsdale County, Celebrate Recovery offers a place to do exactly that.
Meeting Monday nights at Hillsdale Free Methodist Church, Celebrate Recovery is a Christ-centered, 12-step program focused on finding freedom from what it calls “hurts, habits, and hang-ups.”
While the structure is familiar to anyone who has heard of traditional recovery programs, the approach is distinctly faithbased. The program is uniquely rooted in the belief that real, lasting change happens through both practical steps and spiritual renewal.
“It’s a 12-step program, but with biblical support,” says Christie Plemmons, a local realtor and member of the leadership team. “It’s all Christ-centered and faith-focused, and it really applies to a lot more people than they might think.”
That’s one of the biggest misconceptions about Celebrate Recovery, Christie explains.
While substance abuse is part of the picture, only about a third of participants attend for drug or alcohol-related issues. The majority come for what the program calls “mixed issues”— things like anxiety, anger, control, trauma, grief, or unhealthy relational patterns.
“I think people hear ‘recovery’ and immediately think addiction,” Christie says. “But it’s really for anyone dealing with something they want to work through. And that’s most people.”
The program itself first began in the 1990s at Saddleback Church in California, launched by Pastor Rick Warren. Leaders there recognized that the 12 steps often used in secular programs closely aligned with biblical principles. Celebrate Recovery grew from that realization and has since expanded worldwide.
In Hillsdale County, the program reflects the community’s collaboration. While Hillsdale Free Methodist serves as the host site, the leadership team includes volunteers from several churches across the area.
“It’s
not just one church running it,” Christie says. “We have people from seven or eight different churches involved. It’s really a community effort.”
That shared effort shows up in how the evenings are structured. While meeting weekly, on the first Monday of each month, the group starts with a free meal at 5:30 p.m., This gives people a chance to connect before the formal program begins. After dinner, the large group gathers for worship—typically a few songs— followed by either a short lesson or a personal testimony.
After that, participants break into smaller, gender-specific groups. These groups are designed to be confidential and consistent, giving people a space to talk openly and build trust over time. “It’s anonymous and confidential,” Christie says. “What’s shared there isn’t shared outside. That’s what helps people feel safe enough to be honest.”
Community members from all walks and stages of life attend Celebrate Recovery. Some are in the early stages of recovery, just days or weeks into addressing a problem. Others have years of progress behind them. In many cases, those further along stay
involved, both for continued growth and to support others.
“We have people at all different stages,” Christie says. “There are people who are actively struggling, and there are people who have been sober for decades. And then there are people who aren’t dealing with addiction at all, but are working through things like anger or anxiety.” That mix is part of what makes the program work. It keeps the focus on growth rather than perfection.
“It’s not something where you graduate and you’re done,” she says. “People stick around because they realize it applies to more than just one area of life.”
Since launching locally just a few months ago, Celebrate Recovery has been averaging around 40 attendees each week. For many, the biggest benefit isn’t just the structure or the teaching, but the consistency—knowing there’s a place to show up, week after week.
“The feedback we hear a lot is just that people are grateful for the community,” Christie explains. “A place where they can come, share if they want to, and not feel alone.”
The leadership team at Celebrate Recovery has worked hard to make it accessible for everyone. Childcare is provided. There’s no requirement to speak or participate beyond what someone is comfortable with. People can come with a friend or on their own.
“It’s really open to anyone,” Christie says. “No matter where they’re at.”
Celebrate Recovery meets every Monday at 6:30 p.m. at Hillsdale Free Methodist Church, with a free dinner at 5:30 p.m. on the first Monday of each month. More information is available on Facebook through the Celebrate Recovery Hillsdale or at hillsdalefmc.net.
Eight Summer Beauty Tips
Beauty trends this summer are simple: look fresh, feel comfortable, and let your natural features shine. That’s good news because it means summer beauty doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few thoughtful adjustments, you can achieve an attractive, polished look that works with the season’s heat.
1. Lighten Up Your Base
Swap full-coverage foundation for a lightweight tinted moisturizer or skin tint. Letting your skin breathe not only feels better in the heat, but it also creates a more natural, radiant finish. A little concealer where needed goes a long way.
2. Don’t Skip the Sunscreen
Sunscreen is the most important step in any summer routine. Daily SPF protects your skin from damage while helping maintain an even tone and smooth texture. Choose a formula that you enjoy wearing and adequately protects your skin so frequent reapplication feels easy.
3. Embrace Cream Products
Powders can look heavy or cakey in high temperatures. During the hot, summer months, cream blushes, bronzers, and highlighters melt into the skin for a soft, dewy glow that holds up better throughout the day.
4. Keep Makeup Minimal
Summer is not the time for a full face of makeup. A few essentials—mascara, a touch of blush, and a tinted lip—create a fresh, put-together look without feeling overdone. Think effortless.
5. Let Your Hair Work Naturally
Humidity and heat can make styling a challenge, so instead of fighting it, lean in. Air-dried waves, loose braids, or a simple bun feel right for the summer season. A lightweight leave-in conditioner can help control frizz while keeping hair soft and touchable.
If you’re spending time in the pool, be mindful of chlorine’s effects as well, as it can dry and damage hair. A little extra care can go a long way in keeping strands healthy all season.
6. Hydrate Inside and Out
Drinking enough water is essential for overall health, but it also shows in your skin. Pair frequent hydration with a simple skincare routine that includes a gentle cleanser and a lightweight moisturizer.
7. Add a Pop of Summer Color
While overall makeup may be minimal, adding hints of color to your outfits can elevate your overall look. Soft corals, warm bronzes, and sheer pinks complement sun-kissed, summer skin beautifully without overpowering it.
8. Keep It Simple and Consistent
The most attractive summer looks are the ones that feel easy. With kids out of school and vacations booked, a consistent, low-maintenance routine not only saves time but also helps you feel confident and comfortable day after day.
Backyard Fitness: A Way to Stay Active All Summer Long
Not every workout needs a set time or a trip to the gym. Your most consistent movement plan can easily become part of everyday life—yard work, errands, walking, and simple routines that keep you moving without much thought. In the summer months, this kind of “backyard fitness” can be one of the easiest ways to stay active.
At its core, backyard fitness is about using what you’re already doing. Mowing the lawn, pulling weeds, hauling mulch, or tending a garden all require physical strength, endurance, and activity.
Household chores—vacuuming, scrubbing, carrying laundry—also add movement to your day. These tasks may not feel like workouts, but when done regularly, they contribute to overall health. The summer months add even more opportunities for those chores around your home and yard to keep you active.
With pleasant summer mornings and a full calendar of local events, walking is one of the simplest ways to build on that foundation. Thankfully, Hillsdale County offers plenty of opportunities to do just that.
In the city of Hillsdale, Lewis Emery Park, Slayton Arboretum, and Mrs. Stock’s Park are all excellent options. For those who prefer water views, Baw Beese Lake has several access points where you can walk near the shoreline, including Bird Lake Park.
By Elyse Apel
The Baw Beese Trail also runs through town and is ideal for a longer, uninterrupted walk. If you’re looking for something a little more rustic, there are lots of other parks and trails throughout Hillsdale County, including portions of the North Country Trail, Lost Nations, and more.
The key with backyard fitness is consistency. A 20-minute walk in the evening, a few extra trips up and down the stairs, or choosing to work outside instead of indoors all add up over time. Parking a little farther away, taking the long way around a park, or adding a quick walk after dinner are small, realistic ways to build more movement into your day.
This approach also takes some of the pressure off. Instead of feeling like you need to carve out time for a formal workout or a trip to the gym, you’re simply staying active throughout the day. For many people, that’s more sustainable—especially during the busy summer season.
That said, it’s still important to be mindful and take care of your body, even when you’re not doing a formal workout. Stay hydrated when working or walking in the heat and make sure to not overdo it. A little awareness can make everyday movement safer and more effective.
Backyard fitness doesn’t replace structured exercise, but it supports it. It creates a steady routine of movement that keeps your body engaged, even on days when you don’t make it to the gym.
Medical Matters
Relief Beyond Cosmetics: Medical Neuromodulator Treatments That Change Lives
When most people hear the words Botox or Dysport, they often think of wrinkle reduction and cosmetic treatments. However, these neuromodulators have become valuable medical therapies that help patients manage chronic pain, muscle contractures, migraines and movement disorders, restoring comfort and improving quality of life.
At Paige Marie NP, patients receive comprehensive evaluations and individualized treatment plans from a certified nurse practitioner with advanced training in both therapeutic and aesthetic neuromodulator applications.
Conditions Commonly Treated
Cervical Dystonia
Cervical dystonia is a painful neurological condition that causes involuntary contractions of the neck muscles. These contractions can force the head into abnormal positions, resulting in chronic pain, headaches, limited range of motion and muscle fatigue. Targeted injections help relax overactive muscles, reducing spasms and improving function while often decreasing the need for pain medication.
Chronic Migraine Headaches
For patients with chronic migraines, neuromodulator therapy can be lifechanging. By treating specific muscle groups in the forehead, temples, scalp, neck and shoulders, injections may reduce both the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. Many patients report fewer headache days, improved productivity, better sleep and an overall improvement in daily quality of life.
TMJ Dysfunction and Jaw Pain
Temporomandibular joint dysfunction can cause jaw pain, clicking, headaches, facial tension, teeth grinding and neck discomfort. Treating the masseter and surrounding muscles may help reduce jaw clenching and teeth
grinding, improve muscle tension, decrease headache frequency and improve jaw function and comfort. It may also reduce muscle enlargement caused by chronic overuse.
Muscle Contractures, Injury Recovery and Postural Dysfunction
Muscle contractures often develop after injury, repetitive strain, chronic inflammation or long-term compensation patterns. Neuromodulator therapy can be combined with corrective treatments to interrupt chronic muscle guarding and allow tissues to heal more effectively. Patients with chronic neck pain, shoulder tension, upper back discomfort and muscle imbalances may benefit from a comprehensive approach that addresses both symptoms and underlying dysfunction.
Insurance Coverage May Be Available
Many patients are surprised to learn that medical neuromodulator treatments are often covered by insurance when used for qualifying diagnoses, including chronic migraines, cervical dystonia, blepharospasm and certain spasticity conditions. Coverage for TMJrelated conditions may vary depending on the plan and authorization requirements. The Paige Marie NP team assists patients in determining eligibility and navigating prior authorization whenever possible.
A Comprehensive Approach: Myofascial Release and Manual Therapy
Successful treatment often involves more than injections alone. At Paige Marie NP, neuromodulator therapy may be integrated with myofascial release and soft tissue techniques designed to address fascial restrictions, trigger points and chronic muscle tension patterns.
By Paige Marie, NP
These restrictions can contribute to chronic headaches, neck pain, jaw dysfunction, poor posture, restricted range of motion and persistent muscle tightness. Through targeted manual therapies, patients often experience improved mobility, decreased pain, enhanced circulation and better overall outcomes.
Exclusive Patient Recovery Spa
Healing does not stop after an appointment. Paige Marie NP offers an exclusive recovery spa experience for established patients seeking additional support for recovery, rejuvenation and overall wellness.
Medical-Grade Red Light Therapy
Red light therapy is used to support cellular function and tissue recovery. Potential benefits include improved circulation, reduced inflammation, enhanced collagen production, support for muscle recovery, improved skin appearance and accelerated healing. Patients often incorporate this therapy into post-procedure recovery plans and chronic pain management programs.
Infrared Sauna With Integrated Red Light Therapy
Combining infrared heat with red light technology creates a relaxing environment designed to support whole-body wellness. Benefits may include muscle relaxation, improved circulation, reduced soreness and stiffness, support for exercise recovery, temporary relief of aches and pains and stress reduction. Many patients include infrared sauna sessions in their routine following treatments, workouts or periods of increased physical stress.
The Future of Regenerative Wellness
Paige Marie NP also offers advanced regenerative wellness options, including exosome-based therapies and peptide treatments. These approaches are being studied for their potential to support tissue repair, recovery and rejuvenation. They are intended to support symptoms and overall wellness, not to treat specific disease processes.
Exosomes are microscopic extracellular vesicles involved in cellular communication. Available applications may include IV exosome therapy for whole-body support, targeted exosome injections for localized concerns, and aesthetic rejuvenation treatments to support skin recovery and appearance.
Because regenerative medicine continues to evolve, treatment plans are individualized based on each patient’s goals, medical history and provider assessment.
Personalized Care With Advanced Training
At Paige Marie NP, every treatment plan is tailored to the individual. Patients benefit from a combination of evidence-based medicine, advanced procedural training and a functional approach to wellness that focuses on long-term results.
Whether seeking relief from chronic migraines, cervical dystonia, TMJ pain or muscle tension, or exploring regenerative therapies, the goal remains the same: to help patients move better, feel better and live with less pain.
Consultations are available to determine whether neuromodulator therapy, manual treatments, regenerative options or recovery services may be appropriate for each patient’s needs.
By Laura Loveberry Elementary School Assembly Author/Speaker
Inspirational
Speaker
Women’s Retreats/Conferences
Caricature Artist
Life is the Berries
One Summer’s Eve
We delighted in my parents’ summer visits, camping their 1970 Airstream in our backyard. They enjoyed peaceful mornings together kid-free, naming the camper “Escape Pod.” They needed breaks from our hyperactive children, fixated on pulling their pant legs, constantly demanding “Come play.” The kid-free “grandparent timeouts” in the camper worked. Whew!
We played backyard beachball volleyball, giggled through wiffle ball with paper-plate bases, and laughed over dueling Uno, War, and Concentration card games. Sometimes our kiddos’ tears flowed as little feet stomped off. Other times, the kids’ epic celebration dancing mimicked the best end zone jives.
In the evenings, the fire pit was stoked as we circled around Grandpa, munching s’mores, sharing exaggerated stories of my siblings’ and my past shenanigans. My kids roared with laughter, slapping their legs, sometimes flopping out of their lawn chairs.
What a blast as a family!
Dad and my husband—opposites. My dad loved his beer and filled clear garbage bags, tying them to the backyard fence. My hubster Mark never drank a beer in his life. Mark did not cuss, but Dad cursed like a sailor. Dad grew up as an only child in Brooklyn, New York, in an apartment on the 20th floor. Mark was raised on a country farm with four siblings. My dad grabbed attention as the life of
the party. My hubster sat reserved on the side, avoiding the limelight.
Who knew a deep bond would form between these two?
Our evenings were highlighted with sit-down dinners, taking turns sharing highs and lows. One night, my dad stood up, clearing his throat. Dad boldly declared his pride in my husband Mark for raising our children well, for building up his business, and for putting up with me, his highmaintenance wife. Giggle. With a handwritten certificate of adoption, my parents announced they officially adopted Mark as their true son.
Dad bear-hugged Mark. Mark’s eyes brimmed with tears as our kids bounced around the table clapping exuberantly. The kids cheered again and again, “Hip hip hurray!” My tears flowed as Mom and I met eyes. This moment moved in slow motion.
Afterwards, Mark’s head tilted up. His posture straightened. He walked taller. This summer night changed everything for my hubster. Mark Loveberry received the blessing he never knew he craved . . . and nothing was ever the same after that.
Everything got better on a summer’s eve with family.
them in my kitchen booth at the antique mall. But no. Those little ceramic, wide-mouthed, bug-eyed figurines are here to stay in my home. I am talking about scrubby frogs.
Scrubby frogs were introduced in the 1970s. My grandma had one by her kitchen sink. A little green sentinel sitting there, mouth opened wide to hold a pot scrubber. Many scrubby frogs were made in ceramic classes painted in each hobbyist’s vision of what a scrubby frog should be. They were created in slip-casting molds and hand-painted in brown, green, orange, and speckled patterns, then glazed and baked in kilns. This created an endless variety of individual frogs to be enjoyed over generations. Both decorative and functional, today they provide nostalgic décor in the kitchen. Or, in my case, bathroom. And dining room. And kitchen.
The glass shelves above my toilet in the main bathroom hold spare towels on one shelf and a lineup of scrubby frogs on the other. Each frog holds a bar of bath soap in its open mouth. Over the Christmas holidays, they sit silently with candy canes in their yaps. During Easter, they have a mouth full of plastic colored Easter eggs. I also have a trio of them sitting on my dining room table and a couple even hang out in my kitchen. None of which holds a scrubby.
Loving Me Those Scrubby Frogs
By Diane K. Clow
At estate sales, my first stop is the kitchen. I scan the cupboards for Warner Bros. cartoon character glasses, CorningWare cookware, Pyrex glass measuring cups, wooden spoons, and I check the sink area for scrubby frogs. I recently picked up an ugly blue painted one at an antique store for $5. I repainted him a jade green and sprayed him with a high-gloss coating. He is a much happier little dude sporting green skin.
While not enjoying the popularity they held in the 70’s, scrubby frogs are still being manufactured today. You can find scrubby holders in a variety of forms too. I have seen scrubby apples, pigs, lemons, and mushrooms. Although for me, none holds the same charm as my silent noncroaking, bug-eyed scrubby frogs.
So, check grandma’s sink counter and see if she has a scrubby frog. And if she does, and she’s ready to release him into the wild, give me a call. I have a bar of soap ready for him!
Keeping it in Stitches and Scrubby Frogs.
Quilter and Sewist Picker
And, hopefully, Good Friend
BETWEEN THE PAGES
Summer Book Recommendations
By Elyse Apel
There is something about summer that invites you to slow down and savor a good book. Whether you are reading on the porch, by the water, or in the comfort of your own home, summer is the perfect time to try out a new recommendation.
The following recommendations highlight a variety of genres for adult readers, offering everything from light picks to deeper novels. No matter your mood, there is a book here to match it.
Historical Fiction
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah is a powerful story set in Nazi-occupied France during World War II. It follows two sisters navigating danger, resistance, and survival in very different ways. Rich in emotion and historical detail, it is a compelling choice for readers who enjoy stories of resilience and courage.
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr weaves together the lives of a blind French girl and a German soldier as their paths converge during the war. The lyrical writing and intricate storytelling make this an immersive read.
Romance
Love Comes Softly by Janette Oke is a tender pioneer story centered on faith, resilience, and unexpected love. After a sudden tragedy, a young widow agrees to a marriage of convenience that slowly grows into something deeper. If you like this book, you will be excited to learn it is a series.
It Ends with Us by Colleen Hoover is an emotional story that blends romance with more serious themes. Recently adapted into a major motion picture, it offers the perfect opportunity for readers to compare the book and its on-screen adaptation. Please note: This novel includes themes of domestic abuse that may be difficult for some readers.
Mystery & Thriller
Magpie Murders by Anthony Horowitz offers a clever story within a story. When an editor begins reading a manuscript from a bestselling mystery writer, she quickly realizes the fiction may be hiding a reallife crime. It is a perfect choice for readers who enjoy classic whodunits with a modern twist.
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens blends mystery with coming-of-age storytelling. Set in the marshes of North Carolina, it follows an isolated young woman who becomes entangled in a local murder investigation.
Where Care Matters
Congratulations to
The Sparrows Nest
By Elyse Apel
For Kandy Hayes, owning an antique shop has been a lifelong dream.
For 11 years, Kandy worked at the Area Agency on Aging doing intakes for end-of-life care, a role that became especially demanding during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Those years were really chaotic,” she explains. “Everything felt upside down.”
She decided to retire at 62. She didn’t decide to stop working though, instead she pursued her dream of opening an antique store.
“When you start collecting antiques, you run out of room pretty fast,” she says with a laugh.
For more than 20 years, she rented booths at the Allen Antique Mall. After retiring, she spent two years working there, learning the ins and outs of running an antique shop. So, when the opportunity came to open a small store of her own in Allen, Kandy was ready to take the leap. “God opened the door for me to have my own store,” she says.
selling. It even became part of her own story—she was married at Preston’s Antique Gaslight Village in 2007, now known as Le’ Vintage Rose and the Pink Chapel, where they are following the tradition of using the chapel and the old school houses for weddings.
Over time, that love became a skill. Today, Kandy still sources items from estate sales, garage sales, and secondhand shops. But, sometimes, the inventory comes to her.
“People bring me things just about every week,” she says. Kandy says her vision for The Sparrow’s Nest is simple: keep the shop fresh and interesting, and display pieces in a way that helps customers imagine them in their own homes. It’s a goal that resonates—she often hears visitors say, “I want to live here.”
Today, her shop, The Sparrows Nest, is a quaint, rustic building nestled in between the Allen Antique Malls. With its warm-feel and carefullycurated inventory, the store reflects Kandy’s personal style and longstanding love for antiques. Its tagline—antique, vintage, farmhouse, repurposed, unique finds—captures the mix customers can expect when they walk through the door.
“I love that the store causes people to walk down memory lane,” Kandy says.
This is not a new love for Kandy, whose appreciation for old things started early. During some of her childhood years in California, she remembers discovering thrift stores.
“I was probably nine or ten,” she says. “And I just fell in love with it— finding things, learning about them.”
That curiosity eventually evolved into collecting, and then into
Her collection leans into an eclectic, shabby chic, Victorian aesthetic, with quality furniture, distinctive decor, handmade Hobo Pants, vintage clothing, and one-of-a-kind finds layered throughout the space. She also carries Jeanne d’Arc Living magazine, adding another touch of inspiration for those drawn to the style.
“If you have something unique—something different—that’s what brings people in,” she says. In addition to Kandy’s collection, The Sparrows Nest features a small group of vendors. Each of the vendors bring their own style and specialty to the shop, selling everything from original artwork to Amish furniture.
Kandy also recently added work by David Youngman, who painted a mural on the building facing the garden last year. Out front, a lush perennial garden welcomes visitors, while a small shed—packed with treasures of its own—invites customers to browse its collection. For Kandy, antiques have always been more than a hobby, and now she’s living out that passion every day.
The Sparrows Nest is located in Allen at 9011 W. Chicago Rd. The shop is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, you can find her on Facebook or call (517) 320-0567.
OPEN: BEER, BURGERS, & BOURBON
FRI & SAT: 11 AM–12 AM SUN: 12–10 PM MON - THURS: 11 AM–10 PM
Stillwell Ford Car Show
Summer is typically the most popular time for car shows, with warm, dry weather providing ideal conditions for classic cars to be admired. So when Stillwell Ford held its first car show in October, it came as a surprise.
The first show was held to celebrate Stillwell Ford’s 50th anniversary. Nearly 150 cars attended, making for a strong turnout, and participants offered a few suggestions for future events.
“Many classic car owners put storage insurance on their vehicles after Labor Day,” says Eric Hoffman, owner and president of Stillwell Ford.
While participants loved the event, they said they just wanted it a little earlier in the year. So the show was moved to the second Saturday in September. And Eric has a good reason for picking that day.
“Statisically it is the driest week of the year for Hillsdale County,” he explains.
This year, the dealership will host its 10th annual Stillwell Ford Annual Car Show on M-99, between Hillsdale and Jonesville, on September 12.
By Sarah Gray
it still feels a little strange to leave the dealership that evening without a single car on site.
“It looks like we have gone out of business,” he says, laughing.
But bright and early the next morning, when Eric pulls into the lot at 6:30 a.m., a line of cars is already waiting, ready for the show to begin.
Officially, the car show runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., but participants arrive well before the start to have their official photo taken with their car in front of the American flag and to set up for the show.
Parking spots are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, and spaces cannot be reserved. Eric suggests that groups wishing to park together should arrive together to ensure they can park side by side.
There is no fee to enter the car show, and no awards are given. Each participant receives a calendar featuring a photo of their car.
This should be the car show’s 11th year, though it was canceled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The event continues to grow each year. Last year’s show featured about 550 entries and drew an estimated 2,000 to 3,000 attendees.
It’s all hands on deck the night before the car show, as employees work together to clear Stillwell Ford’s lot of every vehicle. Eric says that after so many years of hosting the event, the team has the process down to a science, taking just about two hours to move all the cars, trucks, and SUVs. He adds that
Multiple food trucks will be on site, offering food for both participants and the thousands of spectators who attend each year. Car enthusiasts travel from across the tristate area, and attendance continues to grow annually.
A 50/50 drawing will take place during the show, with the winning ticket drawn at 12:45 p.m. In past years, the drawing has raised thousands of dollars for local nonprofit organizations. This year’s proceeds will benefit the Hillsdale Rotary Fitness Park.
Here is the Community Calendar, where local events happening in Hillsdale, Branch, Jackson, and Lenawee counties will be featured. If you have events that you would like featured in our calendar or city pages in the next issue, please submit those to submissions@simplyhers.net by August 1. Michigan’s Primary Election: August 4. Register to vote now.
By Elyse Apel
Hillsdale
Illumination Station VBS: July 12 - 16 from 6 - 8:30 p.m. at Hillsdale UB Church. At Illumination Station VBS, kids will be challenged to answer Jesus’ important question to His disciples, “Who do you say that I am?” Register your kids online now.
I Love the 80s: July 18 at 6 p.m. at Johnny T’s Bistro. I Love the 80s to Death is a 1980s Murder Mystery benefitting the Heritage Association of Hillsdale County. Taco bar, cash bar, costume competition. Tickets available online now.
Summer Outdoor Yoga Hike: July 19 at 8 a.m., starting at Owens Memorial Park. Hike length and type is approximately seven miles out and back. Yoga will be at 8 a.m. and hike will be at 9 a.m. Meet at Owens Memorial Park to complete a 45–60-minute yoga session before the start of the hike.
Purse Bingo: August 15 at 4:30 p.m. at Johnny T’s Bistro. Save the date! Tickets will go on sale for Hillsdale CASA’s seventh annual designer purse bingo in July.
Coldwater
Pancake Breakfast: July 4 from 8 - 11 a.m. at Coldwater Lake Association. Get pancakes, sausage, and juice or coffee for the whole family. Dine in or take it to-go.
Entertainment Under the Stars: July 7 - August 11 at 7 p.m. at Heritage Park. A free summer concert series running from July 7 - August 11. Concerts will take place every Tuesday. Be sure to bring your own lawn chairs or picnic blankets to sit on.
Hops on Monroe: July 9 from 5 - 9 p.m. in downtown Coldwater. Drinks, food trucks, and live music. Check it out in downtown Coldwater on Monroe Street.
Crushed Glass Craft Party: July 22 from 6 - 8 p.m. at Jim’s Place. Make your own crushed glass & resin 12” light-catching window art, and take it home the same night. All supplies included. This event brings together a room full of women, great conversation, and creative energy. Everyone is welcome. Come solo or bring your friends. $60 and register online.
Live Music: July 24 at 8 p.m. at Jim’s Place. The Funkles performing live.
Crafting Workshop: July 25 at 9 p.m. at Waffle Farm Campground. Bring your creativity and a willingness to learn. All materials and instruction provided to create a beautiful wood project or doormat. Register online.
Blues Club: August 1 from 11 p.m. - 1:30 a.m. at Arts Bar and Grill.
Jackson
Yardsaleapalooza: July 12 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. at the Commonwealth Commerce Center. A collection of over 100 garage sales. Crazy deals, tons of items. Open to the public.
Itchycoo Park Concert: August 7 from 7 - 10 p.m. at Greenwood Acres Family Campground. A musical tribute spanning almost prolific times in American history.
America 250 Concert: August 9 at 2:30 p.m. at Redeemer Lutheran Church. A free afternoon of music and ice cream. Celebrate 250 years of America. Ice cream at 2:30, concert at 3:00. Note: please bring a folding chair or blanket to sit on.
Truck and Tractor Pulls: August 14 at 7 p.m. at Jackson County Fair. Get ready for intense competition, incredible horsepower, and edge of your seat excitement. Grandstand gates open at 6 p.m., show begins at 7 p.m. Grandstand tickets available online for $15, box seats for $20.
Tecumseh
Christmas in July: July 25 from 5:30 - 8 p.m. at Clay it Forward. For this fun mid-summer event, listen to holiday music, enjoy 10% off all Christmas or winter-themed items, and use the wide range of Jungle Gems crystal glazes that are not normally offered. Registration required and available online. For adults only.
Live Music: August 8 from 7 - 10 p.m. at Tecumseh Tavern. The Jim Dandy Band performing.
Adrian
Ragtime Extravaganza: July 3 at 8 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Adrian. Enjoy a free concert with music from iconic American composers including Scott Joplin, Irving Berlin, and George Gershwin. Open to the community. Performed by River Raisin Ragtime Revue.
TECUMSEH
Live Music Returns to Tecumseh
By Elyse Apel
As summer settles into its stride, Tecumseh’s Music in the Park brings the community together for evenings filled with live music. Held at Adams Park on the third Thursday of each month, the series offers a strong and varied lineup from July through September, giving residents and visitors several chances to enjoy live performances in a relaxed outdoor setting.
On July 16, The Rebel Eves take the stage with their Americana sound and tight three-part harmonies. Known for their focus on connection and storytelling, the group delivers an engaging, strippeddown performance style that highlights both vocals and songwriting. Their set creates an inviting atmosphere that pairs well with a summer evening in the park.
Schlitz Creek Bluegrass Band performs August 6, bringing a
traditional bluegrass sound rooted in the genre’s classic style. Their performance blends familiar standards with creative covers, offering something for both longtime bluegrass fans and those newer to the genre. Later in the month, on August 20, Wasabi Pearls—well-known locally—bring an upbeat, energetic set. Their broad appeal and lively stage presence make them a crowd favorite and a strong addition to the series.
The season wraps up on September 17 with The TCA Big Band & VocalAires. Featuring jazz standards and Big Band-era favorites, the group delivers a full, polished sound that provides a fitting close to the concert series.
All concerts run from 6 to 8 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring a chair or blanket for seating. Light refreshments are typically available for purchase, or guests can bring their own food. In case of bad weather, performances will move indoors to the Tecumseh Center for the Arts.
Testimonial:
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-M.M.
JACKSON
Hot Air Jubilee Returns
The Jackson Hot Air Jubilee returns this July with a week full of events, bringing together balloons, classic cars, live entertainment, and familyfriendly activities at Ella Sharp Park. Running July 13 through 18, the annual festival is a perfect summer highlight for the whole family.
One of the featured events is the Hot Air Jubilee Car Show on Saturday, July 18, from 3 to 7 p.m. Open to all makes and models, the show welcomes both classic and custom vehicles, with free registration for participants. Throughout the afternoon, attendees can expect a range of highlights, including Top 25 awards, a Pilots Pick trophy, door prizes, and Model T rides. Activities for kids and a variety of vendor booths add to the event’s appeal.
By Elyse Apel
Beyond the car show, the Jubilee offers a packed schedule throughout the week. Visitors can explore food vendors, a beer tent, and live music while taking in one of the festival’s signature experiences—hot air balloons launching in the evening sky. Balloon launches are scheduled for 7 p.m., weather permitting, followed by the popular Night Glow at dusk, where illuminated balloons create a striking display across the park.
The week will also feature the BFA U.S. Women’s National Championship, drawing skilled pilots from across the country.
For those planning their visit, the official Hot Air Jubilee app provides real-time schedule updates, maps, pilot information, and event details, making it easier to navigate the festival. It is available in your app store. You can also find more information on Facebook or at hotairjubilee.com.
It can rock our world when someone we love passes away before we’re ready to comprehend what’s happening. We’ve all experienced moments like that. We take for granted how fragile life really is, but a sudden loss brings it home. That is why it can be so beneficial for your loved ones when funeral plans are arranged ahead of time. This gives those closest to you the room to grieve without the stress of planning and preparing. It also allows you the opportunity to create your own unique celebration of life with your family by your side and can help them feel connected to you in life and death. No matter what life throws your way, pre-planning will be a blessing to your dear ones.
ADRIAN
Adrian’s Summer Lineup
By Elyse Apel
Downtown Adrian comes alive on the first Friday of each month with its ongoing First Friday events, offering an easy way to enjoy art, music, shopping, and dining in the heart of the city. Held from 5 to 8 p.m., the monthly event invites visitors to stroll through downtown while local businesses extend hours and offer specials.
July’s First Friday, set for July 3, takes on a patriotic theme with “Firecracker Friday.” The evening features red, white, and blue as shops and restaurants join in with festive displays and promotions. Visitors can browse, dine, and take in the energy of downtown before heading to Comstock Park for a fireworks finale at dusk.
Other summer events continue beyond First Friday with Shop and Stroll days. On July 11, downtown hosts a “Downtown Luau” from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., bringing a tropical feel to the streets. Participating businesses lean into the theme with
decorations, specials, and activities, creating a relaxed, summer-focused shopping experience.
In August, the focus shifts to the upcoming school year. On August 15, a “Back-to-School” shop and stroll runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., offering families a chance to find clothing, supplies, and other essentials while supporting local businesses. Specials and promotions throughout downtown make it a convenient way to prepare for the new school year.
With a wide variety of events, Adrian’s downtown continues to offer consistent opportunities to shop local and enjoy the warmer season.
COLDWATER
Coldwater Celebrates the Fourth of July
By Elyse Apel
Coldwater and the surrounding Branch County communities are preparing for a full slate of Independence Day celebrations, with events spanning multiple days and offering something for all ages. As the nation marks its 250th birthday, local festivities bring together longtime traditions and community spirit.
Activities begin Friday, July 3, in Union City at Alumni Park. The evening features food, field events, and family-friendly activities starting at 6:30 p.m., followed by fireworks at dusk.
On Saturday, July 4, Coldwater takes center stage with a full day of celebrations. The Coldwater Lake Association hosts a pancake breakfast fundraiser from 8 to 11 a.m. Later, the Coldwater Lake flotilla begins at 1 p.m. from the public launch, inviting boaters to decorate in red, white, and blue and join in a patriotic display across the water. No registration is required.
As evening approaches, fireworks will light up throughout the area. Coldwater’s display at Heritage Park begins at dusk, offering a traditional viewing experience within the city. At the same time, Coldwater Lake hosts its annual fireworks show, a long-standing highlight that is entirely funded by community donations. Organizers hope to make this year’s show especially memorable in honor of the nation’s milestone anniversary.
Additional celebrations take place throughout the county. Colon’s Fourth of July events include an 11 a.m. parade, midday festivities, a country concert at 7:30 p.m., and fireworks at dusk. Quincy will also hold its annual parade at 11 a.m. For those looking for a different experience, the Capri DriveIn in Coldwater offers a double feature with fireworks and carload admission.
MANITOU BEACH
Summer Traditions Shine in Manitou Beach
Summer at the lake brings simple pleasures: sun on the water, boat rides, bike rides, campfires with marshmallows, and the smell of burgers and corn on the grill. Days begin with quiet sunrises and end with glowing sunsets, all shared with family and friends. For those who grew up visiting the lake, those memories last a lifetime.
In recent years, many empty nesters have traded city homes for lakefront living, creating new traditions for the next generation. In Manitou Beach at Devils Lake, a dedicated community works year-round to offer events that keep those traditions alive.
Manitou Beach Village hosts a full calendar of activities, especially in July and August, along with a variety of boutiques, restaurants and services. The Manitou Beach Village Farmers Market, located at Devils Lake Highway and Walnut Street, runs every Saturday through Labor Day from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., offering local goods and a place to gather. Nearby, Blackbird Café and Baking Co. has become a favorite spot to meet over coffee.
Holiday festivities highlight the season. Fireworks over Devils Lake will take place July 3 at sunset. On July 4, the Devils and Round Lakes Men’s Club hosts its 15th annual Firecracker 7K walk/run. Registration begins at 7:15 a.m. at the Highland Inn, with the race starting at 8 a.m.
Creative opportunities are also abundant. Manitou Beach art camps at Devils Lake Inn and local shops such as Faust House Scrap N Craft and Art Supplies offer classes throughout the year.
The Devils and Round Lake Auto Show is set for Aug. 8 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring classic and modern vehicles, live music and food. Live music by Ryan Groth and BBQ by Smoky D’Z BBQ. Registration is $20 and $10 for veterans. Register by email at devilsroundlakeautoshow@gmail.com. For a full list of events, visit www.manitoubeachmichigan. com or pick up the 2026 Visitors Guide.
HILLSDALE
Hillsdale Spots to Beat the Heat
As summer temperatures climb, Hillsdale offers plenty of ways to stay cool without sacrificing a good time. From quiet indoor spaces to lively local spots, there are many options to keep you busy on these warm days.
For a relaxed escape, the Hillsdale Community Library provides a comfortable place to spend an afternoon. With books, computers, puzzles, and plenty of seating, it’s an easy way to cool off while catching up on reading or enjoying a quiet break from the heat.
In downtown Hillsdale, Dante’s Fine Wines & Spirits offers a different kind of retreat with three distinct experiences under one name. Guests can stop into Paradiso Cocktail Bar for a refreshing drink, browse selections at Purgatorio Fine Wines and Spirits Shop, or enjoy a drink in the Inferno Cigar Lounge.
By Elyse Apel
Just down the street, St. Joe’s Café brings a European-style setting with a focus on fresh, simple ingredients. Known for its sourdough bread, pastries, woodfired pizza, and coffee, the café recently expanded its hours to offer both lunch and dinner service throughout the week. It even offers gelato to cool you down.
For those looking for something more active, Silo’s Fun Park delivers indoor entertainment with plenty to do. Visitors can take on laser tag, explore the arcade, or enjoy other activities like ax throwing or the bumper boat pool that provide a break from the heat.
DIFFERENTLY SEE
Our Unwanted Thoughts, Feelings, and Behaviors
by Cherith Nottingham, LLPC
Avoidance of the unwanted is one of the most common human responses to emotional pain. In clinical mental health, we understand that avoidance can shape both the onset and the escalation of mental health struggles. While avoidance may help us survive overwhelm, remaining rarely supports healing. Suppressing our internal experiences—our emotions and thoughts—often leaves us more distressed, not less. I often hear clients say, “I wish I had explored these thoughts or behaviors with someone sooner.”
Avoidance may help us survive a moment, but curiosity can help us begin to heal from those moments.
One of the most powerful antidotes to avoidance is connection. In my clinical experience, some people have never known what it feels like to sit with another human being and, even briefly, be seen and feel comforted, or emotionally held. In counseling, we call this attunement and co -regulation. From infancy, humans are wired to regulate through the presence of a safe caregiver—someone who offers warmth, steadiness, responsiveness, and the basic means for survival. For some, this attunement is also experienced spiritually, in relationship with God. Over time, as we grow in emotional capacity, we learn to extend that same attunement to ourselves.
In his book Unwanted: How sexual brokenness reveals our way to healing (2018), researcher and author Jay Stringer explores how unwanted behaviors—particularly unwanted sexual behaviors—can serve as signals rather than just moral verdicts. His work suggests that these behaviors often reflect earlier experiences of harm, neglect, or unmet needs. He proposes that unwanted sexual acting out may be a way we unconsciously revisit or reenact difficult experiences from our families of origin. Through his research, Stringer found that many unwanted behaviors generate what he calls surrogate emotions—emotional substitutes that stand in for the deeper, more vulnerable feelings we have not yet been able to face. His invitation is not toward blaming
families of origin where these may have begun, but toward curiosity: What might these behaviors or surrogate emotions be communicating about our unmet needs?
Exploring the unwanted may feel counterintuitive. People often fear that paying attention to intrusive thoughts or troubling behaviors will make them worse. Yet, clinically, we often see the opposite. When we approach our internal world with curiosity rather than condemnation, we gain insight into the patterns that keep us stuck. Avoidance tends to intensify distress; curiosity opens the door to change.
A Gentle Invitation
Take a moment and extend a gentle curiosity toward any unwanted behaviors or persistent thoughts in your own life. Have you ever wondered why they show up, especially when you don’t want them to? Could they be coping strategies— attempts to soothe or distract from something deeper that feels too overwhelming to face? What parts of your story are asking to be acknowledged and seen?
This is one of the central aims of good clinical therapeutic care. A counselor’s role is not to accuse or shame but to walk alongside clients with compassion and curiosity. As individuals begin this journey, many discover that their unwanted things contain clues—road maps, even—pointing toward unmet needs, unresolved pain, or areas of growth they had not yet recognized.
Curiosity is not a weakness. It is courage. It is the first step toward healing, integration, and change. What if, instead of viewing our unwanted thoughts and behaviors as problems to eliminate, we approached them with inquiry— wondering what deeper part of our story they may be pointing toward.
Declaration of Independence Public Reading
The Daughters of the American Revolution US Heritage Trail Chapter, in partnership with Hillsdale County, will host a public reading of the Declaration of Independence on Wednesday, July 8, as part of the nationwide America 250 celebration marking the country’s 250th anniversary. The event will take place on the Hillsdale County Courthouse grounds. Pre-reading programs will begin at 5:30 p.m., followed by the official reading at 6 p.m. The date commemorates July 8, 1776, when the Declaration of Independence was first publicly read. Communities across the country will participate in similar readings to honor the milestone.
Residents are invited to attend and hear State Rep. Jennifer Wortz deliver a live reading of the document. Donna Finley, regent of the US Heritage Trail Chapter, says the gathering is intended to bring the community together in reflection and celebration of the nation’s founding. In addition to the reading, the chapter will recognize 20 men from Branch and Hillsdale counties who served in the Revolutionary War and are buried in local cemeteries.
“This is an opportunity for our community to connect with its history and honor those who helped secure our independence,” Donna says. The event is free and open to the public.
Kristin Lucas 31st Memorial Duck Derby
Domestic Harmony will host its annual Kristin Lucas Memorial Duck Derby on Saturday, July 11, at Mrs. Stock’s Park. This family-friendly event invites community members to gather for a morning of fun and fundraising. Activities will begin at 9 a.m. with donuts and coffee, followed by the official duck race at 10:30 a.m., when participants’ rubber ducks “swim” to the finish line. There will also be a raffle. Marking its 31st anniversary, the Kristin Lucas Memorial Duck Derby continues as a key fundraiser for Domestic Harmony, a local nonprofit that provides comprehensive services to survivors of domestic violence.
Duck Derby tickets are available for purchase at several local businesses. Visit Facebook for more information on the event, tickets, and day-of details.
Shea’Nanigans 6th Annual Charity Ride
Shea’Nanigans will host its 6th Annual Charity Ride on Saturday, Aug. 15, inviting the community to take part in a day of fundraising, food and live entertainment.The event will kick off with registration at 11 a.m., followed by kickstands up at noon. Participants can join the ride by motorcycle or car, with entry set at $20 for drivers and $15 for passengers. Festivities will continue into the evening with food and a live auction at 5 p.m., followed by live music from 6 to 10 p.m. Organizers say the event is open to all and designed to bring the community together in support of a good cause. Gift certificates for the event are also available. Community members are encouraged to attend, whether riding or simply stopping by to enjoy the activities and support the cause. For more information, call (517) 4481070, visit Facebook, or stop by Shea’Nanigans at 521 S. Meridian Rd. in Hudson.
PET TALK
Boarding or Pet Sitter?
Summer Travel Tips for Pet Owners
Summer travel plans are exciting—but for pet owners, they come with an extra layer of decision-making. Whether you’re heading out for a long weekend or an extended vacation, ensuring your pet is safe, comfortable, and well cared for is just as important as packing your own suitcase.
One of the first choices to make is whether to board your pet or hire a pet sitter. Both options have their benefits, and the right fit often depends on your pet’s personality and needs.
Boarding facilities can be a great choice for social, high-energy dogs. Many offer structured playtime, interaction with other animals, and consistent supervision. For pets that thrive on activity and stimulation, this environment can feel like an animal summer camp. Be sure to find a reputable facility that also has trained staff and clear routines, which can provide peace of mind for owners.
That said, boarding isn’t ideal for every animal. Some pets—especially older dogs, cats, or those with anxiety—may find the noise and unfamiliar setting stressful. In these cases, a pet sitter can offer a more comfortable alternative.
Hiring a pet sitter allows your pet to stay in their own environment, surrounded by familiar sights, sounds, and routines. This can reduce stress significantly, particularly for animals that are more sensitive to change. Sitters can also provide one-on-one attention and maintain your pet’s normal feeding, walking, and sleeping schedule.
When deciding between the two, consider your pet’s tempera-
By Elyse Apel
ment. Are they social and adaptable, or do they prefer quiet and consistency? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, it will depend on what works best for your individual pet.
Whichever option you choose, preparation is key. If you’re boarding, schedule a visit in advance to tour the facility, ask questions, and ensure it feels clean, safe, and well-managed. For pet sitters, ask for recommendations, conduct an interview, and, if possible, arrange a trial visit before your trip.
It’s also important to provide detailed instructions. Leave clear notes about feeding schedules, medications, routines, and any quirks your pet may have. The more information you share, the smoother the experience will be for both your pet and their caregiver.
Don’t forget the essentials. Make sure your pet’s identification tags are up to date, and consider microchipping if you haven’t already. Provide emergency contact information, including your veterinarian’s details, and ensure vaccinations are current—especially if your pet will be around other animals.
Maybe you’ve decided to bring your pet along as a travel companion. For those heading out on summer adventures together, a little planning goes a long way. Pack a travel kit with food, water, bowls, medications, and a favorite toy or blanket for comfort. Stick to regular routines as much as possible, and plan ahead for where your pet will stay while you’re out and about.
Ultimately, the goal is simple: to enjoy your time away knowing your pet is safe and cared for. With a bit of preparation and the right choice between boarding and a pet sitter, you can travel with confidence.
Michigan’s 2026 Summer Festivals
Summer in Michigan is a season of celebration, premier festivals and unforgettable flavors. Honor regional heritage and creative spirit while forming meaningful connections with the locals.
National Cherry Festival 100th Celebration (July)
This year marks the 100th anniversary of the National Cherry Festival in Traverse City, the Cherry Capital of the World, and visitors can expect eight days of special performances at the Pepsi Bayside Music Stage, anniversary pop up shops, the return of the Historic Bed Race, and so much more. The festival began in 1926 when Hawkins Bakery baked a giant cherry pie with more than 5,000 cherries for President Calvin Coolidge, and over the years the festival grew into a week-long, multifaceted celebration of cherries, summer and community.
Hiawatha Traditional Music Festival (July)
Marquette’s annual Hiawatha Traditional Music Festival has celebrated traditional music styles for going on 50 years — including bluegrass, old-time, Cajun, Celtic, acoustic blues and folk — held at Tourist Park. Visitors can camp at the park, which features miles of hiking and biking trails, while enjoying three days of acoustic concerts, songwriting workshops and more, including a teen-only dance, the Children’s Parade and an art show.
Art on the Rocks Fine Art Show (July)
Since 1959, this Marquette event has brought together artists and aficionados in the Upper Peninsula during the last full weekend in July. Over 100 artists are selected to showcase their works at Art on the Rocks, which is free and open to the public.
Michigan Brown Trout Festival (July)
Head to Alpena to be a part of the longest-running fishing tournament in the Great Lakes. The Michigan Brown Trout Festival is 10 days of fish-loving festivities, with fun weigh-ins, daily prizes and a Kiddie Classic, along with live music and special activities for the whole family.
National Blueberry Festival (August)
For more than half a century, South Haven annual National Blueberry Festival celebrates Michigan’s agricultural bounty — Michigan produces over 100 million pounds of blueberries each year — and the region’s thriving fruit-growing traditions. Located in Stanley Johnston Park, the festival features blueberrythemed food, lively entertainment, carnival rides, a craft market, pie-eating contests, tours of berry fields and more.
Upper Peninsula State Fair (August)
Dating back to 1928, the Upper Peninsula State Fair is a weeklong festival held in Escanaba that invites visitors to share and celebrate the heritage and agriculture of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Enjoy thrilling midway rides, livestock shows, authentic regional cuisine, demolition derbies, and exhibits showcasing the region’s unique farming and logging history.
Porcupine Mountains Music Festival (August)
Set in the rugged Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, this two-day festival made history as the first music festival held in a Michigan State Park. The Porcupine Mountains Music Festival lineup features an eclectic mix of genres — Americana, blues, country, bluegrass, rock, folk and others — from touring bands from across the country and abroad. In addition, the all-acoustic Busking Barn stage will host a songwriter’s workshop, and the colorful Kid’s Tent holds plenty of crafts and activities for young audience members.
Traverse City Food & Wine Festival (August)
This milestone celebration of local flavors debuted in 2025 to showcase the bounty of the Traverse City region’s amazing agriculture, craft, and creativity. Through a variety of special events, guests are invited to indulge in bold bites from renowned chefs and restaurants, sip on local wines and craft beverages, taste foods that are distinctly “up north”, and learn from chefs, winemakers and experts. Set against the stunning
coastline of Lake Michigan, Traverse City Food & Wine provides a true feast for the senses at every turn.
Michigan Irish Music Festival (September)
Muskegon’s Michigan Irish Music Festival is a four-day celebration of Irish and Celtic music and culture. Hosted at Heritage Landing, the festival showcases traditional Irish, folk and contemporary Celtic music on multiple stages. More than just concerts, the festival also includes Gaelic folk dance shows; hearty Celtic food, beer and spirits; an Irish market; and a lively Wee Ones Area for children.
Traverse City International Fireworks Competition (September)
The International Fireworks Competition championship made its debut in 2023 with an unforgettable lineup featuring teams from Germany, Mexico, France, and the USA, establishing itself as one of the most exciting fireworks showcases anywhere.
Courtesy of Michigan.org
Do it Yourself
Seven Weekend DIY Projects Anyone Can Tackle This Summer
Here are some practical projects to incorporate into your schedule this summer!
T.here’s something satisfying about finishing a small project in a single weekend. It doesn’t require a full renovation, a big budget, or a longterm commitment. Just a little time, a bit of effort, and the willingness to get started. Thankfully, the lovely rhythm of summer can be just the push you need, and these simple DIY projects offer an easy way to refresh your space without overcomplicating things.
1. Refresh Your Front Entry
Your front door sets the tone for your home. A fresh coat of paint, a new welcome mat, or a few potted plants can instantly brighten the space. It’s a quick update that makes a noticeable difference, both for guests and for your own everyday arrival.
2. Create a Simple Outdoor Seating Area
You don’t need an elaborate patio setup to enjoy your yard. Rearranging what you already have, or adding a couple of chairs, a small table, or even an outdoor rug, can create a space that you are excited to spend your time in. String lights or lanterns can add a soft, inviting touch for lovely summer evenings.
3. Update Cabinet Hardware
One of the easiest indoor upgrades is swapping out cabinet knobs or handles. Kitchens and bathrooms can feel surprisingly refreshed with this small change. It’s affordable, quick to install, and doesn’t require any major tools or experience.
4. Build or Style a DIY Planter
Whether you’re planting herbs, flowers, or greenery, adding planters is a simple way to bring life into your space. You can repurpose containers you already have or build a basic wooden box. Grouping a few together creates a fuller, more finished look to your front porch or an indoor space.
5. Declutter and Rework One Space
Not all DIY projects involve tools. Consider doing a challenge of choosing one drawer, closet, or corner of a room to declutter and
By Elyse Apel
reorganize each weekend. Often, you’ll quickly find motivation to tackle even more. Adding simple storage solutions like baskets or bins is another tip to keep things in place and make the space easier to maintain.
6. Add a Fresh Coat of Paint
If painting a full room feels like too much, focus on a smaller area—a single wall, a piece of furniture, or even a set of shelves. A new color can lighten a room for summer or give older pieces a second life.
7. Create a Simple Accent Wall, Photo Gallery, or Display
Use what you already have to create a focal point in your home. Framed prints, family photos, or even a collection of mirrors can be arranged into a gallerystyle wall. It’s a lovely and trendy way to update a room without buying all new decor.
The key to any successful weekend project is keeping it manageable. Choose something that fits your time, your space, and your energy level. Often though, these small updates that make your home feel more comfortable and give it a real facelift as summer winds down.
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OU T D O OR LIVI NG M A DE BE AU TIF U L
Inside orhaveoutside, you covered! Inside orhaveoutside, you covered!
ONES V ILL E LUM B E R
By Elyse Apel
