Simply Hers Nov/Dec 2018

NOV/DEC 2018

SH SIM P LY

it’s a woman thing!

BRANCH/HILLSDALE/LENAWEE

HE R S

TAMMY TROPIANO JOHNNY T’S BISTRO

Building a business by building relationships

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Surviving Snow Covered roadS

By Rob Shewman

Winter driving presents a number of challenges to you and your car. Cold weather tests the limits of your car’s mechanical abilities. Treacherous conditions test your abilities as a driver. It pays to be prepared; here are a few tips to get ready for snow and sleet-covered roads.

Make sure your battery and charging system in good order.

Check the battery, charging system, and belts. Your battery can leave you stranded simply because it’s old. Or, it could leave you stranded because your charging system isn’t working well.

Check the cooling system.

Saying my life has been chaotic lately is an understatement on par with saying Michigan weather is a tad changeable. I am deeply into the “sandwich years:” I still have a child at home but I’m also dealing with the ever-increasing needs of aging parents in poor health. On top of it all is trying to find time for work, my personal relationships, and (maybe) squeeze in a little “me” time. This balancing act is very difficult, very emotional, and often exhausting. I know I’m not unique in this struggle, and, as life expectancy increases, it’s one that more and more of us will face. I just Marlanea McGraw try to deal with each day as it comes, but I wish they would stop all ganging up on me at once!

Owner/Publisher The Pittsford Wildcats had a great football season and I was so proud watching Lucas play! It was another of those “lasts” that we’re sharing as he goes through his senior year. We’ve made a number of college visits and he seems to like each one we look at, so the decision-making process could be a real challenge.

My dad heading down to Florida for the winter makes me think of all the snowbirds who will soon be leaving for warmer climates. We wish you all safe travels and a happy time in your winter quarters. Remember that you can keep up with us at www. simplyhers.net where you can read the issues online you’ll miss while you’re gone. Also, don’t forget to visit and like our Facebook page to see the latest happenings and posts.

We hope you have fun with our “flip book” format for this holiday issue! It’s something I’ve wanted to do for a long time, and this year we were able to make it happen. We tried to round up some tips and tricks to ease the mayhem of the season for you.

Make certain the antifreeze will protect your car at the winter temperatures you’ll experience. For our area, you’ll need a 50-50 mix of coolant to water.

If you have leaks in the cooling system, take care of them now.

As another year draws to a close, we truly cannot thank you enough for being part of the Simply Hers community. The support and encouragement that you give us make a huge difference, and we appreciate our readers more than you know. I, personally, want to thank my staff for going above and beyond every, single issue! We also offer a heartfelt “thank you” to the advertisers whose continued faith in this publication allows us to keep going. Please patronize the businesses and individuals whose ads appear in these pages.

Keep your gas tank close to full.

Wishing you all a warm, wonderful, safe, and blessed season!

In the summer, you can take a chance and run down to fumes. But in the winter, if you do get stuck or stranded, the engine will be your only source of heat.

Clean off your car - entirely!

Once snow or ice does arrive, take some extra time to make sure your car is clean and your visibility is good. Clear off the entire car, not just a little peephole in the windshield. You need just as much, if not more, visibility in poor conditions because you have to keep your eyes peeled for pedestrians.

Make sure you have some basic supplies in your car in case you do get stuck.

Invest in a substantial snowbrush and an ice scraper. It’s also good to have a shovel, a bag of sand to help with traction, and extra windshield washer fluid. A few things to keep in the trunk include a blanket, winter clothes you don’t wear anymore, and an old pair of boots too.

517-439-1323 146 Lewis St Hillsdale

4

from the publisher

SH SIM P LY

HE R S

Sales Staff

Becky Spratt

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

Sherry Sheffer

Cyndi Young

Staci Gramlich

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 Jess Piper Diane Clow Alicia Curtis Kara Wilson Rachel Yoder

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C O N T E N T

On the Cover 10 Johnny T’s Bistro

Fashion 13 It’s A Wrap

BEAUTY 16 7 Lip Tips

Muscle Up - Live Fit 18 Change Your Perception

Social Media 20

Helps Find Biological Family

Marriage, Menopause 22 and Mutts - OH MY!

Local Spotlight 24 Kegan Kares

40 Stuff

You May Not Know About

42 Keeping It In Stitches A Christmas Tradition

44 City Pages Hillsdale - 44 Jonesville - 46 Coldwater - 48 Tecumseh - 50 Manitou Beach - 52 Adrian - 54

Ask the Doctor 26

56 Simply Speaking

Turn the Page 30

58 Life is the Berries

The Local Beat 32

60 Treasure Hunt

Influenza

Book and Author Reviews

What’s New With Your Favorite Businesses

Gray Matters 34

13

It’s Straight Up Interesting

Dung Smear

24

62 Resale Trail

The World Needs More Empathy

3 Boys and a Transplant 36 Dedicated to Super Wyatt

Legal Matters 38

Providing for Your Minor Children After You Die

noV/dec 2018

SH s i m P l y

40

g! it’s a woman thin aWee le/len

BRanch/hillsda

h e R s

On the Cover:

TAMMY TROPIAONO JOHNNY T’S BISTR

LITY ABSOLUTE QUA AND BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS

kEgAN kARES

local student giVes Back

fashionable wraps for r winter weathe

6

plus

michigan holiday destinations

FREE1

Both Rick and Tammy Tropiano, owners of Johnny T’s Bistro, felt ready to have their own restaurant when they took the helm in 2009. Each brought years of experience to the job. Rick had been in food service since the early 1980s while Tammy entered the field in 1990. Besides experience, they brought a rock-solid foundation of faith. “Faith is why we are able to keep our perspective and push on when things get challenging,” explains Rick. When asked about the hallmarks of Johnny T’s, Rick replied: “Absolute quality and building relationships. Over the years, new customers have become regular customers and then friends.” Read more about this local landmark on page 10.

Photo by Synergy In Motion Studios

Holiday OpeN HOuSe NOVeMBeR 16 & 17

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9

JohnnyT on the cover

Bistro

s ’

By Melissa McCance

Building a business by building relationships

On a list of “Easy, Stress-Free Small Business Opportunities,” owning a restaurant would probably be very near—if not at—the bottom. What with creating the menu, choosing the décor, finding a chef, making connections with vendors, hiring and training the staff, and publicizing your eatery, well . . . it’s enough to send most people around the bend. Add to that the fact that over half of new restaurants fail within the first three years, and it’s a wonder anyone even tries. Fortunately for our area, Rick and Tammy Tropiano, owners of Johnny T’s Bistro, took the plunge!

10

Both Rick and Tammy felt ready to have their own restaurant when they took over in 2009 and each brought years of experience to the job. Rick had been in food service since the early 1980s while Tammy entered the field in 1990. Besides experience, they brought a rock-solid foundation of faith. “Faith is why we are able to keep our perspective and push on when things get challenging,” explains Rick. Their faith also shapes how they deal with everyone who’s part of their business including customers, employees, vendors, and the community as a whole.

When asked about the hallmarks of Johnny T’s, Rick replied: “Absolute quality and building relationships. Over the years, new customers have become regular customers and then friends. We don’t really focus on finding employees who are planning to stay forever; we love bringing people in, honing and polishing their skills, and then seeing them move on. We’ve had staff leave and go into medicine, acting, law—one’s even a chef!”

Because the food scene is ever-changing, Johnny T’s recently introduced a revamped menu with a focus on “doing fewer things better,” and they are planning to update the offerings more regularly than before. One thing that won’t change is the commitment to first-rate cuisine. “All of our food is housemade,” says Rick. “The recipes are created here. Sometimes the experiments work and sometimes they don’t ever get on the menu, but everything we serve is crafted in this kitchen.”

Their popular banquet facility is busy all year, and it’s rare for there to be more than a handful of weekends when it’s not in use. In addition, Johnny T’s will do off-site catering for groups. The menu and banquet brochure is available online, as is the restaurant menu if you want to browse before you visit. Considering the tempting range of options, looking ahead and narrowing your choices ahead of time is probably a good idea!

All of our food is housemade ... The recipes are created here.

With the holidays just around the corner, Johnny T’s is again offering their great gift card special.

Beginning the day after Thanksgiving, customers who purchase five $20 gift cards will receive another $20 gift card free. Rick said these cards can be reloaded and make great gifts for local college students. “The students can have a nice meal out, and the parents or grandparents can reload the card later in the year.”

Johnny T’s Bistro is located at 173 E. South St. in Hillsdale. You can contact them by phone at 517-439-1100 or by email at info@johnnytsbistro. com. Their website address is johnnytsbistro.com and you can follow them on Facebook.

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It ’s A Are you ready to bundle up?

Wrap!

What good is it to have the most amazing outfit and then cover it up with a drab, lifeless overcoat? This winter it may be time to pay some attention to the outer layers. A splash of color or a fabulous scarf could add some much needed life to an otherwise dreary Michigan day. Check out some of our favorites . . . .

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Cape:

Capes have been very popular over the last few years, offering a stylish and sophisticated covering for any wardrobe. A sash will help give the cape a more fitted shape and a slim pair of pants will add balance to the look.

Oversized Scarf:

One part neck accesory, one part blanket yet always stylish and warm. The oversized scarf is the hippest accessory of the season. These beauties come in unlimited colors and styles and with a little on-line research you can find multiple ways to style this versatile piece.

Driving Gloves:

It’s chilly outside again, and you need gloves to keep your fingers warm.

Sometimes, the only thing you want to do is hop in your car and drive home or to the store for hot chocolate, so you’ll want to have leather driving gloves you can quickly slip on before opening a frozen car door. Look for styles lined with fleece or flannel for a cozy fit.

Beret

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Berets have long been associated with the Bohemian lifestyle. Boho is huge in fashion, and there’s nothing like a cute beret to bring out the quirky Boho spirit.

Peacoat

This classic military-inspired wool coat — originally worn solely by sailors — is ultrawarm, often unisex, and always double-breasted.

Shearling Coat:

A shearling and leather combination is the way to go if you’re looking for an edgier coat for winter. Style it with black jeans or a skirt, but either way you’ll look like a trendsetter.

Trench Coat:

No closet is complete without this key transitional coat which can take wearers from crisp fall nights to cool winter mornings. Loose and belted, it’s often waterproof.

A trench coat is an essential rainy day jacket for chilly fall weather! Make it stylish by opting for a traditional trench coat paired with a striped long-sleeve shirt and a pair of dark-wash jeans.

15

7

Lip Tips to keep your lips healthy, especially during cold, windy winters.

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1. Slather The Scrub

Exfoliate once a week. Yes, even your lips need a good scrub every now and then. This gets rid of excess skin for smooth lips ready to be hydrated. Don’t go overboard. It can dry your lips out even worse. Stick to a weekly regimen.You can use a face scrub on your lips—not just your face. Once you’ve given your lips a gentle scrubbing, you’ll need to moisturize. Follow up your scrub session with a thick coat of an ultra-hydrating lip balm.

2. Avoid Fragrances or Menthol

Ingredients that are meant to be tasty or fragrant can also be drying. And, although vitamin E is usually a soothing, it can actually be an irritant, too. Look for hydrating ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, vitamin E, and almond, jojoba or coconut oils. Good old petroleum jelly (think: Vaseline) works well too.

3.Drink Water

It seems obvious, but healthy, smooth skin and lips need lots of water, so drink up this winter. Take a water bottle with you wherever you go. Drinking enough water (the equivalent of at least 9 cups of fluids daily) will keep the body, skin, and lips hydrated.

4. Use a Humidifier

Humidify your house and turn down the heat. The winter air is already drying enough, but a too-hot house can suck the moisture right out of the air making your lips (and skin!) feel dryer.

5. Apply Sunscreen

Protect, protect, protect. Lips are susceptible to sunburn since they lack melanin, the pigment that helps shield skin from the sun. No matter the season, it’s a must to apply (and reapply) sunscreen regularly—and the same goes for your lips. In the day time—whether the sun is shining or not—be sure to wear a lip balm with an SPF value of at least 15.

6. Kick the Lick

Licking your lips damages the protective barrier which can dry out the lips. You might be under the impression that you’re giving your lips a quick boost of moisture, but that’s far from the case. Saliva evaporates quickly which means your lips are left even drier than before you licked them. To help curb your lip licking habit, avoid flavored lip balms— they may tempt you to have a taste.

7. Try Tinted Lip Balm

Certain lipstick formulas can be extremely drying. If you’d like to avoid that without forgoing a flattering lip color, go for a lip balm with a tint. And, of course, the lasting hydration doesn’t hurt, either.

17

muscle up —

Change Your Perception

Jess Piper ACE Certified Personal Trainer & Senior Fitness Specialist PRIME Fitness

It’s 5 a.m., it’s cold outside, and your alarm goes off! BEEP, BEEP, BEEP! You’re lying in bed thinking of every excuse in the book not to get up and work out . . . trust me, we have all been there. But, you’re faced with the ultimate dilemma: hit snooze, or get up? As your mind races back and forth, you ask yourself, “Why do I HAVE to work out?” Maybe that’s the issue, we think we “have” to work out like it’s a chore. Maybe we should stop looking at our workout as something we “have” to do and start looking at it as something we “get” to do.

Changing your perspective in the gym could change your life.

I am a firm believer in positive thinking. Every day I see people with debilitating issues that choose not to “hit snooze.” They chose to get out of bed and conquered their workout with a positive outlook! They are faced with physical ailments that make it hard, if not nearly impossible, just to walk, but that

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doesn’t stop them. These people motivate me and inspire me to view working out as a privilege!

Ask yourself this question: are you a glass half full or half empty kind of person? Either way is fine, and it takes both types to make the world go around, but what if we all took the “glass half full” approach when we hit the gym? Think about it . . . changing simple phrases like “I have to” to “I get to” can make a huge difference in one’s attitude towards working out. When your thought process starts to take a negative turn, stop yourself and redirect in a positive direction. The body is nothing without the mind and vice versa. When you get them to work together amazing things can happen. We all get tired, we all are busy, and we all have a million excuses to hit snooze . . . but change your perception and find that reason to get out of bed and conquer that workout!

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1919

The Missing Piece Social media helps find biological family

By Sarah Gray

Gene Tucker grew up in a loving home in Allen with wonderful parents Loren and Wilma (Burlew) Tucker. A graduate of Reading High School, Gene has always been an outdoorsman who enjoys hunting and fishing. Twenty-nine years ago he met his wife Kim; they have been married for 27 years and have a daughter Lacey and grandson Logan.

Gene has lived a very nice life, but for almost 45 years a piece has been missing.

In 1965, the year Gene was born, his biological mother gave him up for adoption.

According to the Adoption Network, in the United States there are 1.5 million adopted children and 135,000 children are adopted yearly. In November 1965, Gene became part of those statistics. “They are my parents and I still think of them as my parents,” Gene says of the Tuckers who have both passed away. “But, part of me was always curious about my biological parents.”

His parents told Gene he was adopted when he was about seven or eight years old. He doesn’t remember much of the conversation or it having a big impact on his life. As he grew older, however, Gene, who is an only child, began to wonder more about 20

his biological parents and if he had any biological siblings.

Today, almost 70 percent of adoptions are open adoptions meaning there is some contact between the biological and adoptive parents. When Gene was born, however, the majority of adoptions were considered closed with no contact between the two parties. So, in the early 90s when Gene wanted to know a little more information about who his birth parents were, getting help was difficult.

Gene and Kim contacted the agency in Jackson that handled the adoption, but the information they received was sparse and not very helpful. The paperwork gave his parents ages at the time of the adoption and the ages of other children his mother had at the time. “They never gave me any names,” Gene says. “I wrote for more information but they said they couldn’t give me any more.”

Gene put his search on hold at that time for several reasons, the main being he could see that it was

upsetting his mother Wilma. “She was hesitant about me finding my birth parents,” he says. He never knew quite why but thinks she may have been a bit scared that he would find them and connect more with his birth parents.

For the next 25 years, Gene sat on what little information he had. Earlier

this year, Gene’s father Lorne passed away. With both parents now gone and no brothers or sisters, the questions about where he came from and why he was given up were no longer a passing thought in the back of his mind. “I was just kind of curious about it.”

Gene and Kim contacted the adoption agency again, but the agency asked for payment for the files. “It’s your life and they want money,” Kim says. They decided to do what many people who were adopted in that era are doing to try finding their birth parents: they went to social media.

Kim posted Gene’s photo on Facebook with all the information they had, and, within days, it was shared around the world. Kim said she received hundreds of comments; many suggested Gene take a DNA test to help find the missing pieces he sought. One woman even offered Gene her own DNA kit from Ancestry.com.

Gene admits that once he received the DNA test kit, it sat around the house for a couple of months. Then, on his daughter’s urging, Gene gave the saliva sample and sent it in. “Lacey was always curious about my biological family,” Gene says.

Gene was anxious for the results to come back. Thankfully, Ancestry.com kept him updated. Within a couple of weeks, he had results. Not a list of names, addresses or birth records, but a family tree filled with potential relatives both living and deceased. No bullseye, but more information than he’d had before.

Through the family tree, Gene discovered he was related to the Goldsmiths of Jackson. He contacted Jane Goldsmith and from information each had they determined she was Gene’s cousin. They met at the beginning of September and she showed him the genealogy work she had done, giving Gene more clues into his past and starting him down a path that would drastically change his life.

The information from Jane and Ancestry. com helped Gene and Kim connect dates and ages to names until they believe they found Gene’s biological father – Gordon Batterson. “It all added up like a puzzle,” Kim says. Gordon was listed as deceased on the family tree but he had a brother Marvin. Gene and Kim found Marvin’s address, drove to his house in Jackson, and knocked on his door. Marvin’s wife Carol answered and the two explained who they were and why they were there.

When Marvin came to the door Gene said to him, “I believe I might be your nephew.”

Marvin took one look at him and told him he looked just like Gordon, his biological father.

They talked awhile and Marvin said he had no idea Gordon has given up a child for adoption. He and Carol concluded Gene must be the son of Gordon and Emma Lou. Emma Lou—who died in 2012—had four children from a previous marriage and, after giving up Gene for adoption, married Gordon. They had another son, Gordon Jr. Marvin contacted Gordon Jr. and Gene’s half-sister Susan; a few days later Gene met his brother and sister for the first time. They were excited to meet Gene and continue to stay in touch. Gene has yet to meet his three older half-brothers but is hopeful that he will be able to, in time. “I’m still trying to absorb everything,” he says. “September has been a good month.”

search. “It wd as so much quicker and more efficient,” he says. “It cut through all the red tape.” He and Kim are waiting for paperwork from the adoption agency, hoping it will answer a few more questions. He is also grateful to Kim who spent countless hours doing research and finding information for Gene. “I really owe it all to my wife Kim.” For Gene, the happiness is two-fold.

He is happy he was adopted by such wonderful and loving parents and he is glad for the life he had growing up. And, he is glad for the chance to connect with his biological family and meet his siblings.

He says his Uncle Marvin is planning a picnic to get more family members together which will give Lacey and Logan a chance to meet Gene’s newly discovered family.

“It’s been nice, really nice,” he says. “It’s been an emotional experience but a good experience.”

In the short time he’s known his biological family, Gene is already making connections. He found that many of his family members enjoy hunting and fishing like he does and several family members were part of local fire departments and police. Gene was a volunteer firefighter for 23 and half years.

“I am still processing all this and probably will for a while.”

Gene is grateful that social media directed him to DNA testing and to Ancestry. com for giving him more clues in his

21

MARRIAGE, MeNOpaUsE and MUTTS - OH MY!

By Peggie Bildner I’m not going to sugarcoat it, I have struggled with finding humor in a lot of the things going on in my life lately. Some days I’ve spent more time looking backward than forward. Fortunately, there are a lot of smiles back there! I thought I’d share a few with you ~

MARRIAGE ~ A church where Buzz and I used to attend always put on a couples’ Sweetheart Banquet for Valentine’s Day. One year, they added to the entertainment by having everyone vote in advance for categories like “Best Dressed Couple,”“Best Looking Couple,” “Smartest Couple,” etc. At the banquet, Buzz and I were chosen “Funniest Couple.” On the way home, we were smiling and thinking what a compliment it was that others thought we were funny . . . until it came to me that the word “funny” can also mean “weird!” As I think back over some of the things that happened while attending that church, I’m pretty sure the honor was bestowed on us for the second reason!

We both had our share of “OOPS” moments, but one of my most embarrassing came within the first few weeks of attending. We were sitting in a pew behind an elderly woman. The song leader told us to take our hymnals and stand to sing. I rose with the songbook in front of me but unfortunately, the lady in front of me did not. As I went up with the book, I caught her wig and tipped it forward, down onto her face! If I wasn’t already appalled enough, she turned around to give me a nasty look with the wig still down over her eyes! It is VERY hard not to giggle at that, just sayin’!

MeNOpaUsE ~ I still prefer to get up and start my day fairly early. Buzz likes to stay up later and sleep in. He will sometimes ask me to please stay in bed with him. After 38 years of marriage, I’ve taken the fact that he still wants to cuddle with me as a compliment. But, the rest of the story came out on this chilly morning when he admitted that having me (and my hot flashes) in bed was “like laying beside a big heating pad.” I’m going to pretend that just means he still thinks I’m HOT! and MUTTS ~ Those of you who love their dogs as we do, I’m sure will agree they can have human reactions sometimes. The other day Buzz was going into the basement. Kacie, our Keeshond, started to follow him down. Buzz said, “You’d better behave if you’re coming down here.” Kacie stopped, gave him a dirty look, turned around and went back upstairs!

At six years old, Kacie still cannot be trusted out of our sight for any length of time, so it’s a constant challenge to keep track of her. Me (to Buzz): “Where’s Kacie? I thought she was with you.”

Buzz (straight-faced, serious): “I don’t know. When she left the room I asked her where she was going, but she didn’t answer me.”

Another incident during the opening hymns (this time caused

by Buzz), brought half the church down in laughter, including the song leader! Buzz loves to sing, especially hymns. He doesn’t care that he can’t carry a tune or hasn’t a clue what they mean by singing in a certain key. On this particular Sunday, as soon as the music started, he enthusiastically stood tall, proud, and loud to sing one of his favorites. The problem was that the song leader had not told us to stand up and Buzz didn’t realize he was the ONLY ONE standing! I was trying to tug discreetly on his sweater but he continued to sing, oblivious to what was going on. Everyone seated behind us and the song leader up front started laughing before he finally figured out what was going on and sat down.

After church, the song leader told Buzz he owed him an apology because we should have all been standing. After all, the song was “I Stand Amazed.”

Yep, I’m pretty sure that was a polite way of voting us the “Weirdest Couple!”

22

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Keagan Kares A Tender Hear t for

Children in Need

By Melissa McCance

There can be moments in life that bring us up short and provide a new understanding of life’s realities.

This happened to Keagan Gimenez four years ago during her junior year of high school. She was part of Jonesville Community Schools’ “Peer to Peer” program in which high school students work with elementary students. One day, she discovered a small kindergarten student burrowing in the trash looking for food. Shocked and saddened, Keagan went home and shared what she’d seen with her mother Melissa, telling her that something had to be done about it. They enlisted the help of fifth-grade teacher Brian Stroble and the Keagan Kares program was launched.

Each month, Melissa picks up 100 supplementary food bags from the Food Bank of South Central Michigan that are distributed on Fridays to elementary children who’ve been identified as facing food insecurity. Student volunteers assist with the distribution which is done in a way to avoid making the recipient students feel self-conscious. Keagan says that sometimes parents are uncomfortable about accepting the help but adds that they do their best to encourage focusing on what is best for the children.

Keagan is anxious to see the program expand and help as many students and families as possible.

The program is now being ex-

24

tended into the middle school, and Keagan envisions assisting more middle school students and moving into the high school. She is particularly concerned about the need for more volunteers to distribute the bags. Keagan currently attends Jackson College and has arranged her school and work schedules around the time demands of Keagan Kares, but she is transferring to Siena Heights next year to complete a degree in computer networking and cybersecurity. That means she won’t be as available for distribution days.

“It can be a way for National Honor Society members to get some of their community service hours,” Keagan explains. “Actually, any student who needs service hours could be part of this.”

Besides additional volunteers, the program also seeks monetary support. Keagan tries to do something special for the families around the holidays, so they do extra fundraising to cover those costs. Keagan Kares has received some funds from community sources, but more is required to meet the need.

It’s Keagan’s hope that a small group will come together to keep Keagan Kares going and growing. Anyone interested in getting involved should contact Brian Stroble at Williams Elementary School: bstroble@jonesvilleschools. org or 517-849-9175.

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Celebrating 30 years of delivering better hearing.

Influenza

by Nichole Ellis, D.O. Simply Hers Magazine

Better hearing starts here...

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.

Sandra Hepker

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.

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.

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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.

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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.

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blood flow restriction training:

Sue gruber, PT BRooklyn FaciliTy ManageR

By: Triston culp, PT, DPT, astym cert.

What is Blood Flow Restriction Training (BFR)?

Blood flow restriction training uses a special inflatable device around the upper portion of an extremity to reduce venous blood flow in the limb while allowing arterial flow. This technique allows for an increase in workout intensity with less pressure through the affected joint. It allows patients to have a faster recovery time with less loss of muscle mass during recovery. This “harder” full body workout allows for better hormone release and blood flow, resulting in an increased healing rate, thus shortening rehabilitation time and enhancing outcomes.

Conditions that respond well to Blood Flow Restriction Blood flow restriction was invented for postsurgical patients or patients with joints that are restricted and painful. It is also used by Olympic athletes to improve training and by bodybuilders to improve muscle mass. Longer recovery time from surgery is typically due to the strength lost in the muscles surrounding the surgical joint. Those recovering from total joint replacements, fractures, Achilles tendon repairs, knee ligament reconstructions, rotator cuff repairs, muscle strains, nerve injuries, and knee arthritis could benefit from BFR rehabilitation.

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28

Blood Flow Restriction Expectations and Treatment BFR therapy feels like increased pressure and fatigue in the muscles used. A light, 20-minute BFR workout session is said to be equivalent to a heavy load training 60-minute workout session. BFR should only be done twice a week. Early training post-surgical is limited due to the affected joint not being able to support significant loads to maintain body mass.

A typical physical therapy session is about an hour, with BFR supplementing the exercise and conditioning portions of the session.

Muscle soreness is expected, which indicates appropriate stress to the tissue; this, in turn, will help strengthen the muscles surrounding the joint being treated. Joint pain and bruising at the cuff site should not occur.

Is Blood Flow Restriction Therapy Safe?

Side effects of BFR can include headaches and muscle soreness. Precautions are for swelling, high blood pressure, edema, open wounds, headache, and blood clotting disorders.

Overall, treatment is safe, and we suggest bringing up any concerns that you may have with your surgeon, referring provider, or your certified BFR Physical Therapist.

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The Post-Operative Knee The most common loss of motor activation and muscle mass is with the quadriceps and thigh after knee surgery; this can be seen in the thigh of the surgical leg being much smaller than the non-surgical leg. BFR rehabilitation engages the muscles around the surgical joint not to lose mass quickly, and can, in turn, improve neuron activation and stability.

Patient Testimony “I was impressed with my overall response to my first treatment with blood flow restriction.

I got a great workout with lighter weights compared to my normal workout with heavier weights. It is awesome to get a real workout in 20 minutes. I cannot wait for my next session.”

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For more information and to find your closest Athletico location, visit Athletico.com or call the Hillsdale office at 517-439-2376. We also offer free injury screens to determine if you are a physical therapy candidate, a blood flow restriction candidate, or to help guide you in your medical options.

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turn the page Book and Author Reviews

Fall has arrived and the leaves have turned to those fabulous autumn colors! Hopefully, you were able to hop in your car and take a color tour around our state and local counties. Beauty abounds! On that note, here are some suggested readings for our upcoming autumn holiday, Thanksgiving.

By Nancy Ryan Simply Hers Magazine

The Mayflower: The Families, The Voyage, and the Founding of America written by acclaimed historian and biographer Rebecca Fraser. This is a vivid narrative history of the Mayflower and of the Winslow family, “who traveled to America in search of a new world.” Author Fraser traces two generations of one ordinary family and their extraordinary response to the challenges of life in the new world. Edward Winslow was an apprentice printer who fled England and Holland for a life of religious freedom and opportunity. He built a home and family and a deep friendship with King Massassoit, Chief of the Wampanoags (which has become part of the legend of Thanksgiving). Fifty years later, in juxtaposition, we see son Josiah commanding the New England militias against King Massassoit’s son in “King Philip’s War.” This can be purchased as either an e-book or in audiobook form.

Changing pace to something lighter we have author Joanne Fluke’s Raspberry Danish Murder. Hannah’s brand new husband Ross has vanished into thin air, leaving Hannah bitter and confused. She is the owner of The Cookie Jar, and bakery orders for Thanksgiving are pouring in. Hannah is in a frenzy to keep up there and in her personal life. Fluke has written several books in this series and they are known for their recipes, comedy, and endings. They also contain romance. Some of these include Chocolate Cream Pie Murder, Christmas Cake Murder, Chocolate Chip Cookie Murder, Key Lime Pie Murder, Wedding Cake Murder – you get the drift. She also writes under several pseudonyms, including Jo Gibson, Chris Hunter, John Fisher, Kathryn Kirkwood, and Gina Jackson.

She’s a busy lady!

30

Lastly, James Patterson has a Thanksgiving treat for his readers in You’ve Been Warned—Again. “Joanie was dreading Thanksgiving with her family at their strange new house. Then she encounters her brother standing in the kitchen. It was hard to know what to say to him, seeing as he’d died five years ago . . . .“ I have never read

a Patterson novel. Been meaning to, but there’s so much to read . . . .

I received an email from fellow reader Marge who really enjoys a series entitled Annie’s Attic Mystery Series. These mysteries take place in the small town of Stony Point, Maine, and revolve around the ladies in the Needlecraft Club. They include the recently-widowed Annie Dawson; her divorced, childhood friend Alice; never-married Mary Beth, who owns the local yarn shop in Stony Point; and Annie’s daughter, LeeAnn. If you go online to www.anniesfiction.com you will be able to read more about this mystery series and order them. Each month thereafter you will automatically receive the next book in the series (I just might do this!), or you can just order them at your local library.

My friend, Sandi, thought I would enjoy Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Scottish author Gail Honeyman.

She was correct. This is an uplifting, wonderfully written, five-star novel! I could not stop thinking about it and wondering what would happen next when it was out of my hands and sitting on my table. It is the story of 30year old Eleanor who has been alone all of her life, going from foster home to foster home. But through it all, she does not feel sorry for herself, doesn’t really even realize her life is lonely. The author allows us into Eleanor’s thoughts and how she talks back to her fellow workers in her mind and rationalizes her beliefs and their dumb observations. She is funny, and we soon discover that she is quite a character!

Through happenstance at her office where she works in billing, a series of events occur to bring her from her isolated life into contact with happy, caring people.

Gradually, they enable her to move out of her lonesome shell and become a woman who finds friendships and love. It was so poignant and heartwarming. I wish I had slowed down and savored what I had in my hands. This author knows how to write a story. It is her debut novel, and she won the 2018 Costa Book Award for Best First Novel. She also won the Audie Award for Fiction and was nominated for Goodreads Choice Awards for Best Fiction. No surprise there!

Please let me know what you’re reading: nancyryan47@ gmail.com. See you at the library!

31

The LocalBeat What’s n e w with you r favor ite b u s ines s eS

By Melissa McCance

PRIME FITNESS STUDIO A new fitness option is coming to PRIME Fitness Studio! Owner and lead trainer James Campbell is excited to announce that a limited number of open gym memberships are now available.

Open gym members have access to the studio and use of all equipment during open hours which run weekdays 6 AM - 9 PM and weekends 9 AM - 6 PM. For an additional fee, open gym members get personalized, trainer-designed workout programs that will be updated monthly.

The studio is equipped with treadmills, ellipticals, rowers, and a stationary bike; free weights including bars, plates, and dumbbells; squat racks; TRX suspension systems; and a variety of weight machines. If you’re interested in finding out more about this great opportunity, stop by PRIME Fitness at 96 E. Carleton, Hillsdale (across from Family Video) or call 517-817-6475.

COUNTRY CARPETS Have you checked out the new location for Country Carpets? If you’re looking for flooring, you need to stop by! The new store features a larger showroom and MORE INVENTORY! You can browse among more samples and see many options to beautify your home. Their inventory now includes carpet remnants and rolls, vinyl remnants and rolls, carpet tiles, and luxury vinyl plank flooring.

Something that hasn’t changed with the new location is their commitment to customer satisfaction. You’ll get the same personalized service and quality installation which have earned Country Carpets outstanding customer reviews and ratings. Come see them at 394 W. Chicago Road in Jonesville. Be sure to make note of the new phone number: 517-995-5070. Store hours are Monday and Wednesday from 9 to 5; Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 9 to 6; and Saturday from 9 to 2.

LAWRENCE DESJARLAIS, M.D. An addition to the staff at the office of Dr. Lawrence Desjarlais will allow for an even higher standard of care for their patients. Cathleen Y. Chidester, MPAS-PAC, has joined the practice as the Physician Assistant. Cathie is not new to the field, however, having over 26 years’ experience with 16 of them in dermatology. Her commitment to quality, compassionate care motivates her to update her education continually, allowing her to bring the most up-to-date knowledge and techniques to her patients.

Cathie holds both a BS and an MA in PA Studies. When not caring for patients, she enjoys working out, hiking, cooking, and going on medical mission trips to countries around the world. Dr. Desjarlais hopes you will join him in welcoming Cathie to the practice!

32

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The world needs a little more

empathy

Gray Matters

By Sarah Gray Simply Hers Magazine

Empathy. It’s a word that needs to be talked about a little bit more these days. Our culture has become so mean and ugly lately it can be difficult not to be sucked down into the trenches of cruel quips and nasty gossip. Our society has become one of instantaneous gratification. We can get just about anything we need just about as fast as we want it.

High-speed internet allows us to be online nearly anywhere meaning we can watch movies or be on social media with just a couple of swipes. Shopping can be done online and delivered to our cars, and Amazon has spoiled us so much with their Prime shipping we seemingly never have to wait for anything.

And, while all that technology can be great (I personally LOVE Amazon), I wonder if our need for instant gratification has weakened our ability to empathize. Hear me out . . . .

We are so used to getting everything we want right now that when we don’t or something goes wrong, what is our immediate reaction? Are we patient? Do we think to ourselves, “Well, 10 years ago I wouldn’t have been able to do this at all, so it’s not that big a deal?” More often than not we get upset— sometimes very upset.

This can easily carry over into how we deal with the people around us. We go, go, go, expect things now, now, now and then, when we are stopped, we get upset. And usually, that emotion does not stay contained but instead comes out to the person we are interacting with. And so we say something rude or complain in the heat of our anger, not realizing that interaction can have a long-lasting effect.

When my son was in preschool, his teacher read this wonderful book called “Have You Filled a Bucket today?

A guide to daily happiness for kids” by Carol McCloud. The concept is very simple: everyone has an imaginary

34

bucket over their heads, and when you say something or do something nice you get a drop in your bucket. If you do or say something unkind, you drip out of your bucket. In addition, your positive or negative words and actions “drop” or “drip” in other people’s buckets.

Depending on how full your “bucket” is equates to the happiness you outwardly show. So, a person with a full bucket is happy and a person with an empty bucket is unhappy. Pretty straightforward, right? And, while it may seem overly simple and bit cheesy, it: 1) is a very effective concept to teach young children; and, 2) is true!

Have you ever noticed that when you compliment a total stranger his or her body language changes?

Even if it’s just for a moment – the face softens, the shoulders relax, you may even see a smile or blush.

That’s a drop in that person’s bucket. And how do you feel seeing a reaction like that from something you said. Feels pretty good, right? That’s a drop in your bucket, too. On the flip side, how do you feel when someone bumps into you in the store and doesn’t say “sorry” or cuts you off driving and doesn’t give an apologetic wave? You get a little ticked, right? Your face may darken a bit and you may not be quick to apologize when you bump into someone with your cart at the store. Those moments are drips from your bucket and from the buckets of those around you.

I recently read a book for adults on this subject called “How Full is Your Bucket?” by Tom Rath and Donald O. Clifton. Clifton is one of the pioneers in the study of positive psychology. It expands on this fairly basic concept and helps relay it to everyday life.

I could go on and on because as you may have noticed I feel passionate about it, but I will end with this. The world needs more empathy. We need more “bucket fillers” and fewer “bucket dippers.” We have the opportunity to choose which one we will be every day. So, which one will you be?

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3 boys and a transplant

By Alicia Curtis, Simply Hers Magazine

dedicated to super wyatt...

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panic, I am able to look stare at the blessing that time gave to me and this fall another little miracle landed in my lap.

With organ donation on the horizon, the tension was running high. Oscar’s full body cast was nothing short of horrendous. What we and the doctors didn’t plan for is his sick belly getting bigger and bigger. Underneath this enormous cast was a belly that was growing with no room. We had to play the waiting game . . . again.

By the time they took the cast off, Oscar’s skin was completely broken down from bodily fluids. When they tried to pull it off, some of his skin came off with it. The next visit came with orthopedics and a phone call to plastic surgery to see if he would need any skin grafts. Thankfully, that was an easy consultation that never needed to happen. I think back to all of the negative thoughts I had during this time. The anger and resentment I held towards his team. What I failed to see in the moment is how many times God stepped in and took care of our fears.

I have this beautiful little blonde baby in my classroom this year.

He walks the halls with a smile that lights up your world. But he has a love for life, he has a love for life that only “super moms” will understand. I spent moments leading up to this year tickling him, making him laugh at inappropriate times, secretly asking his previous teacher to keep me updated on appointments that I shouldn’t know about. This little guy I prayed for before his family knew anything about it. Why? Because he is a blond-haired angel that deserves life. This little boy deserves life to its fullest. When you think God hasn’t given you exactly what you asked for, he gives you not one but two little blond-haired boys to look after.

Starting in September 2013, Oscar continued to get sick. When I say that Oscar started to get sick, Oscar’s body was slowly breaking down. His belly was so incredibly big. He was so sick. Without care, Oscar was going to heaven. I knew it, my husband knew it, total strangers knew that things were way off. We ended up having to attend a transplant seminar on how to take care of a child who has just had a transplant. When we showed the head transplant nurse of the facility a picture of Oscar, we were at Mott the next day. This was the first. The first of his last chance at life. Oscar was admitted to Mott Children’s Hospital in Ann Arbor. This was the beginning of his ending. This hospital stay came with blood work, around the clock care, 24-hour mommy and daddy surveillance, blood transfusions, and every single specialist you could possibly imagine seeing my little baby boy. This visit, this visit was the first of what would transpire.

That is my life this year. Exactly five years ago my own little blueeyed blond was fighting for his life. On this day, Oscar loves life more than anyone I know. But what is so amazing about that is I have a Super Wyatt that loves life just the same. This little boy fought cancer for half of his already amazing life. In the years that Oscar battled, I absolutely REFUSED to step foot on the cancer floor at Motts. Oscar has a higher percentage of battling cancer and I couldn’t and CAN’T say the C word in regards to him to this day. But, I’m here to tell you that some fierce fighters come off of that floor. I write about him to give all of those fighting hope. I am so blessed to watch over two miracles (and a whole beautiful classroom of 22 others). If these babies could fight and pull through, so can anyone else in this great big world. I hope that these upcoming holidays bring you and yours peace, joy, strength, and, most importantly, love.

This time of year is especially hard for me. A lot of memories and pictures flood my news feed. Each one feeling like it takes me right back to that exact same place and time. Yet, once I get over the

Dedicated to Super Wyatt, a little guy who has a great big part of my heart.

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Providing for Your Minor Children after You Die Nominating a person to raise your children and handle their inheritances may be the most vexing decision you will make during estate planning. Not only must the person you select raise your children as you want them raised, but that person may also become financially responsible for your children’s inheritance.

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

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The good news is that the person who raises your children and the person who handles their inheritance does not have to be the same person. If necessary, these roles can be separated whereby one person is entrusted with your children’s care while another person is entrusted with their financial matters.

The financial side of the dual model provides additional options as either an individual person or a trustee of a trust could be responsible for your children’s inheritance. A trust holds the children’s inheritances and provides guidelines for the inheritance’s use. A trust could also provide motivating incentives for your children to attain specific accomplishments that are important to you.

These accomplishments could include graduating from college, staying clear of drug abuse or lawbreaking activities, or anything else you may want as long as it is not contrary to what the law allows.

The trust’s assets can be released to the children or the guardian incrementally according to age and needs. For example, the trustee could distribute money for the children’s needs until age 18 and then manage the money until the child is a financially mature adult. Your trustee may also exercise discretion in investing and distributing the funds for the children’s support, education, healthcare needs,

etc., to ensure the children’s needs are met until they come of age. This method can ensure that the assets are there when they’re needed for your family.

Your children’s guardian will incur expenses while raising your children which is often a concern for the guardian and parent nominating the guardian.

Annuities are one way to overcome this hurdle.

Annuities are a very flexible financial product with many different options. Annuities pay out regular income which can make them convenient vehicles to cover ongoing expenses for minor children. Your estate’s personal representative or the trustee of your trust could be directed through your estate plan to purchase an annuity, the payment of which will be made to the children’s guardian and provide resources to cover the expenses inured in raising your children.

If you have set up an annuity for yourself or a spouse, you can name the children as beneficiaries or you can also name a trust for the benefit of your children.

If you are still paying into the annuity at the time of death, your children may receive the balance or you may give a trustee the option of rolling the balance into another annuity to be paid out to the children at a later maturity date. If you are already receiving annuity payments yourself, the children may simply continue receiving these payments for the remainder of the term.

Planning for the welfare of minor children after your death is neither simple nor pleasant, but important.

Determining the right people and plan for raising your children and controlling their inheritances requires careful thought. With the right estate plan, both facets can successfully be managed.

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Stuff

You May Not Know About . . . .

Hillsdale native becomes film star Simply Hers is starting a new segment of the magazine called “Stuff you may not know about . . . .” This segment will inform readers about some of the people, places, and events in Hillsdale, Lenawee, and Branch counties that may have been forgotten or were never well known.

It is a way to shine a light on some important facts and people from our area and inform our readers more about the communities in which they live. For the first installment in this series, we look at a famous stage and screen actor from Hillsdale County who went on to have an equally famous son.

Jason Nelson Robards Sr. was born on a farm in Hillsdale on December 31, 1892, the son of Frank and Elizabeth (Loomis) Robards. Frank was a post office inspector, farmer, and also managed Theodore Roosevelt’s 1912 Presidential campaign in Michigan. He was chosen as chairman of the Hillsdale County Republican Society in 1898. According to the Hillsdale County Historical Society, in addition to being the post office inspector, Frank was also “said to have set up rural free delivery mail service in and around Hillsdale County.”

Jason Robards Sr. – then known as Jay – studied at Michigan State University (then the Michigan Agricultural School) for two years before deciding he was not interested in pursuing a career in farming. He began spending a lot of time in Detroit at the theater and soon after decided to become an actor himself.

Jason trained at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts.

He landed his first role in a motion picture in 1921 as Frank Thompson in the movie “The Gilded Lily.” He appeared as a leading man in many films during the early part of his career including “Footloose Widows,”“Hills of Kentucky,” and “Tracked by the Police” (in the last two he starred with famous canine Rin Tin Tin). His film career spanned mostly from 1921 to 1961.

During his early career, he was billed Jason Robards; however, once his son Jason Robards Jr. began his career, he was listed in the credits at Jason Robards Sr. The Internet Data Movie Base (IMDb) listed Jason Robards Sr. as appearing in 208 films over a 30-year career. In addition to acting in films, Jason Robards Sr. 40

also appeared on stage including the Broadway musical “Turn to the Right” in 1917. His best-known stage role was John Marvin in the longrunning hit “Lightnin’.” During the latter part of his career, he appeared in guest spots on many television programs such as “Man Hunt,” “Wagon Train,” and “General Electric Theater.”

Jason Robards Jr. was born July 26, 1922, and had his first role in the short film “Follow the Music” in 1947. He went on to have memorable roles in such films as “Philadelphia,”“Parenthood,” and “Hour of the Gun” and won Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actor in “All the President’s Men” and “Julia.”

Jason Robards Sr. and his son appeared on stage together only once in Budd Schulberg’s “The Disenchanted,” a play inspired by the story of F. Scott Fitzgerald. Jason Jr. won his only Tony Award for his performance.

Jason Jr. has two sons Jason Robards III and Sam Robards who are both actors as well. Jason Sr. died April 4, 1963, at his home in Sherman Oaks California at the age of 70.

Anyone who has an idea for this new segment can email their pitch to Sarah Gray at sarah@simplyhers.net.

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Keeping It in Stitches A Christmas Tradition

By Diane K Clow Sewist and Long Arm Quilter Eversew Quilted

Don’t you love Christmas holiday traditions?

My very favorite for a number of years was the Annual Ornament Exchange. A group of us would handcraft ornaments for each other and go home with that number of new ornaments for our tree. This was a tradition I participated in for over 30 years. At one time, I was a member of two exchanges and had to produce over 50 ornaments! Production would begin in September following the agonizing decision of what to make, how long it would take, and how much $$$ would be at stake!

When an exchange was established with my co-workers, I hosted this event for several years at my home. Now, the upside of hosting an event at your home prior to the holidays is that you have this huge incentive to get your house in order. Literally. Then you’re all set for the actual holiday! Everyone would bring their ornaments and a finger-food passing dish. We would draw numbers to see who would get to choose their ornament first. This was especially important if someone’s ornament offerings were not identical—right, Allison? If they were different, you’d want to get first dibs for the one of your choice.

There were traditional snowmen, Santas, reindeer, angels, and Christmas trees made of felt, slate, wood, pinecones, plastic, even some from spoons and empty ammunition shells! Mine were often less traditional. Over the years, I made zebras, bears, dinosaurs, and Raggedy Anns. Later there were cupcakes, gingerbread boys, donuts, and little chefs (I guess I was on a food binge).

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The exchange of ornaments was a lot of fun.

We’d tell the story of where we got our idea, how we made them, and how long it took. We heard the tragic story of almost-completed ornaments being stolen while traveling—right, Cindy? How one member didn’t get a chance even to START her ornaments until the day before the exchange—right, Deb? But the best part of the evening (okay, other than the food) was the telling of the OTHER stories! These included stories from a few of our members who went to parochial school rather than public school. Now keep in mind this was back in the 1970s. These girls had to wear uniforms to school and during the lunch break would play pool in the local bar.

And, enjoy a beer. During the school day. And it was legal because WE were allowed to drink when WE were 18! (Take that you generations who followed behind!) Right, Rae? Of course we would “oooh and ahhh” over the skills required to make these precious ornaments, too.

Every year when we haul the Christmas tree out of the garage rafters and set it up, I truly enjoy reliving the moments of those exchange evenings as I put each ornament on the tree. Over the course of 30 years, some of the ornaments have been “retired” but most still remain intact. When my granddaughter visits at Thanksgiving, she and I put the ornaments on the tree together. She asks me the story of each one.

“Who made this one, Grandma?” she asks. And we laugh and look at each one as we decorate.

These exchange ornaments are the only ones I put on my tree. And I love them. Every one.

Merriest of Christmas to you All. May your traditions and stories always Keep you in Stitches.

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May you Have a Joyous Holiday Season!

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Life is the Berries Dung Smear

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

God will smear DUNG on the faces of priests??? Did I read this right? What am I visualizing in my daily Scripture reading, and how did I miss this part with . . . poop? I read through the Bible yearly, and I don’t ever recall reading of a fecal face smear!

As I am studying through the Old Testament, I am on the last book, Malachi. The New Testament is written 400 years later, so some scholars call the space between the Old and New Testament the “silent years.” I am pondering the impact of the last words before the long silence. What profound truths will God share right before the lengthy absence of God-breathed writing?

God shares a “dung smear” illustration.

That’s right. God includes this verse: “. . . I will smear on your faces the dung of your festival sacrifices . . . .” Malachi 2:3b NIV. The context is the priests were not honoring God and were sinning in their sacrifices to God. The application for me is God hates my sin and to Him, my sin is as disgusting and dishonorable as fecal matter smudged on my face. Can you imagine the stench stuck under the nostrils? Eeewwww!

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I will smear on your faces the dung of your festival sacrifices . . . .” Malachi 2:3b NIV.

Shortly after my reading, I enjoy a glorious hike through the woods. At the end of my wilderness trek, I spot trash along the trail and bend over to clean it up. As I am leaning over, I focus on the rubbish. GASP! I nearly picked up, with my bare hands, a repulsive used tampon tossed out on the nature trail.

Again, “Eeewwwww!”

I grasp the word picture God is vividly reteaching me from my morning reading.

My sins are dishonoring, disturbing, and downright gross, like unexpected garbage on a picture-perfect path. Another verse from Psalms pops in my head, “Wash me thoroughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.” Psalm 51:2 KJV. (I suggest reading all of Psalm 51 to comprehend the cleansing power of God’s forgiveness.)

When I do what I know is wrong against God, I am going to picture myself walking around with fecal face. Yep. That stinking word picture is helpful to make me to stop when I am sinning, ask forgiveness from God, and let Jesus wash my poopy face clean.

Let’s gasp at the sinful mess in the mirror, let God scrub our faces clean, and start our day afresh!

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R S LE TRAIL RA L RESALE

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2940 W. Carleton, Hillsdale Mon -Sat 10 - 7 517.439.1202 New and gently-used items including clothing for men, women and children, housewares, kitchen wares, home decor, furniture, books, electronics, jewelry, collectibles.

Donations are tax-deductible & always accepted.

Reading 1025 E. US 223 • Adrian Tue - Sat10 -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

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.

Resale shopping is one of the fastest-growing retail categories today, and we wanted to introduce you to some of our favorites! Be sure to check the listings in each issue for new updates and special offers exclusively for Simply Hers readers.

Happy trails!

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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

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TANKS

FOR THE

WARM WELCOME

Crystal Flash now delivers propane from our newest location in Adrian.

We are the proud new owners of the Lenawee Farm Bureau Oil Co-Op in Adrian. Our goal is to be a great neighbor — and we will do this by investing in our community, employees and facilities. As an example, we’re adding propane delivery service to the Lenawee, Monroe, Washtenaw, Jackson and Hillsdale county area.

WHO WE ARE

CORE BENEFITS

We are a 100% employee-owned energy

• • • • • • •

distribution company with locations throughout Michigan. We deliver propane, fuel and heating oil to residential, agricultural, commercial, industrial and government facilities. Since 1932, we have focused on the communities we serve.

No enrollment fees Extended customer service hours 24-Hour emergency service Price protection programs Automatic fill delivery available Multiple payment options Unlimited $100 referral program

WE’RE READY TO DELIVER FOR YOU Call 800-875-4851 or Visit crystalflash.com

A 100% Employee-Owned Company

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