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JONESVILLE LUMBER 2

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517 Thrift Shop - 25 Allen Antique Mall - 43 Becker & Scrivens Concrete - 17 Bildner & Donahue, PC - 55 Birdie’s & Howell Custom Framing - 13 CAPA - 7 Cavoni’s Pizza - 33 Christian Care Connection LLC - 49 County National Bank - 41 Country Carpets - 12 Day’s Inn - 13 DMCI Broadband - 39 Direct LinQ Appliance & Furniture - 45 Domestic Harmony - 58 El Cerrito Mexican Restaurant - 9 Edward Jones / Waldvogel Wealth Management - 12 Expressions Studio - 29 G and G Glass - 33 Gene’s Auto Service, LLC - 39 Grace & Growth Lactation - 40 Handmade by Sherry - 12 Haul Out Junk LLC - 33 Hawkes Dental - 33 Heffernan Soft Water Tri County Water - 27 Helping Hands Preschool & Childcare Center - 17

Hillsdale County Community Foundation; The Great Give - 44 Hillsdale County Community Foundation; Warm the Children - 55 Hillsdale County Medical Care Facility - 26 Hillsdale County Veteran Affairs - 33 Hillsdale Community Library - 16 Hillsdale Gymnastics - 33 Hillsdale Natural Grocery - 12 Johnny T - 30 Jonesville Lumber - 2 June’s Place - 16 Justin Price Agency, Farmers Insurance - 44 Leigh A. Raddatz, CPA and Co. LLC - 43 Lifeways - 43 Local BUZZ Radio - 44 Lorrie Miller Law - 49 MacFarland Painting - 19 Mitchell Research Center - 16 MoseArt - 39 Night of Luminaries - 21 Paige Jameson NP - 41 Pattys Bridal - 55 Pediatric Place - 49 Performance Automotive - 5 Phat Jaxx - 31 Rosalie’s Roadhouse - 6 Salvation Army - 5

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COVER FEATURE

Malibu Sunspa By Cortnee Dow: Owner, Malibu Sunspa

Malibu Sunspa has always been more than a tanning salon to me. It began with my parents, so stepping into ownership was never simply about taking over a business. It meant carrying forward something my parents had built while also finding a way to make it my own.

After the passing of my father, that became much harder than I ever expected. The Hillsdale location and the last couple of years have been seasons of major transition. There has been grief, pressure, uncertainty, long days, hard decisions and plenty of moments when I wondered what the future of Malibu would look like. But somewhere in the middle of all of that, the vision became clearer. My family has been the biggest part of helping me get to this point. They have supported me through every 10 | SimplyHers.net

decision, every risk, every difficult day and every idea I have had for what Malibu could become. I truly would not be able to move into this next phase without them beside me. Our girls are a huge part of my “why.” I want them to see that building something meaningful does not always happen easily. Sometimes it comes through loss, sacrifice, faith, hard work and choosing to keep moving forward when the road looks nothing like you expected. That is what this season has taught me. Malibu has an incredible group of loyal clients, and I am so thankful for the people who have continued to support us through every change. I love that our customers are more than names on a computer screen. We know them. We hear about their families, their lives, their milestones and their struggles. That personal connection is something I never want Malibu to lose.

At the same time, I know the business is ready to evolve. The vision for the future is to grow Malibu beyond traditional tanning and into a more complete beauty and wellness destination. That means newer technology, upgraded equipment, LED and red-light options, skinfocused services, wellness treatments and additional spa services that give our clients more ways to look and feel their best under one roof. The industry has changed. I want Malibu to offer modern services and equipment while still keeping the comfortable, familiar environment people already know and love. My faith has carried me through this entire process. There have been seasons where I could not see how everything was going to come together, especially while navigating the loss of my dad and the responsibilities that came with it, and that took time for me to grasp. I have had to trust God with the parts I could not control and keep doing the work in front of me. Now, for the first time in a while, I feel like I can see the other side of those difficult seasons. I am grateful for the foundation my parents created, grateful for my father and what he left behind, grateful for a husband who has stood beside me through all of it, and grateful for our girls who give me an even bigger reason to keep building. And I am genuinely excited again. Malibu is entering a new chapter, one that honors the legacy of where we came from while creating something even better for the future! There is still a lot ahead of us, but after everything it has taken to get here, I feel more certain than ever about where we are going. The new and improved Malibu Sunspa is coming, and I truly believe the best part of our story is still ahead. For more information, call (517) 439-8888 or visit on Instagram @malibusunspa

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Non-Profit Spotlight

Share the Warmth

Building Hope, Restoring Lives: A Year-Round Sanctuary for Hillsdale County When Michigan’s harsh winter settles over Hillsdale County, warmth is more than a comfort, it is a lifeline. For years, Share the Warmth of Hillsdale County has stood in the gap, providingshelter during the coldest months. But homelessness, hardship, and heartbreak do not disappear when spring arrives. Currently, our shelter operates only from November to March, opening its doors from 4:30 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. While these hours offer vital refuge from freezing temperatures, they leave a painful void during the rest of the year. Every day, neighbors right here in our community face the terrifying reality of having nowhere safe to turn when they need it most. Over the past eight years, we have held hands and heard the stories of hundreds of local neighbors in need, making the necessity of a year-round shelter painfully clear. Share the Warmth is ready to step forward, but it will take our entire community to answer the call. Share the Warmth is embarking on a capital campaign to establish and operate a full-time, year-round warming and homeless shelter. Our vision goes far beyond offering a dry bed and a hot meal; we aim to build a doorway to long-term healing and self-sufficiency. Homelessness is often connected to complex underlying challenges, including substance abuse and mental health struggles. Without stability and support, breaking these cycles can feel impossible. With a full-time, year round facility we plan to expand on the programs we’ve already built and offer dedicated, compassionate programming 14 | SimplyHers.net

focused on mental health and addiction recovery support, financial wellness and budgeting, as well as career readiness skills and job placement. By addressing the root causes of displacement, we are not just sheltering people for the night, we are giving them the tools to rebuild their lives. With hope and a helping hand our guests will not only survive their toughest times, but thrive as active members of our community. Transforming this vision into reality requires the collective heart of Hillsdale County. We invite you to stand alongside us in this mission of rebuilding hope and restoring lives. Mark your calendar for Tuesday, December 1, 2026. Share the Warmth is honored to participate in the Hillsdale County Community Foundation’s “Great Give” on Giving Tuesday. Your donation made on this day will stretch even further to bring a permanent, year-round shelter to life. Whether through a financial gift, volunteering your time, or simply sharing our mission with friends and family, your support sends a powerful message: you are seen, you are valued, and you matter.

To learn more about our capital campaign, explore volunteer opportunities, or make a contribution, visit our website at www.sharethewarmthofhillsdale.org. Together, we can build a warmer, stronger, and more hopeful Hillsdale County.

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Life is the Berries

Count the Cost

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

Are you a hardcore, sweat-equity, tool-belt-wearing DIY enthusiast? We used to be. As newly married homeowners on a shoestring budget, “Do It Yourself” translated directly to “Let’s see how close we can get to emergency room discharge papers while saving fifty bucks.” The Bible wisely reminds us to count the cost: “For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?” (Luke 14:28 KJV). Well, we counted the financial cost, but we completely forgot to factor in the cost of medical tape, frozen peas for swelling and pain trauma. An early venture into budget renovations began with kitchen cabinets purchased from a factory “scratchand-dent” clearance center. The doors were a mashup of mismatched styles, but my hubster was determined to make them look like a million bucks. He borrowed a high-powered pneumatic nail gun to speed up the trim installation. He grinned like an HGTV host right up until the final second. BAM! He accidentally shot a nail straight through the wood trim — and directly through his index finger. His proud smile instantly flipped upside down, his eyes bulged like a cartoon character, and he instantly achieved a whole new level of vocal range. Undeterred by bloodshed, our next brilliant moneysaving scheme involved installing a carpet remnant ourselves. Lacking a professional carpet stretcher, we engineered a makeshift wooden board with protruding nails. When that glorious contraption failed to tighten 18 | SimplyHers.net

the wrinkles, we resorted to highintensity interval training. We spent an hour sprinting across the room and forcefully launching our bodies at an angle to slide the carpet into place. The floor looked wonderfully flat! The only downside … a week later, our big toenails turned a lovely shade of black and blue … and popped off completely. Apparently, using your feet as human battering rams stresses the digits to the point of annihilation. The grand finale occurred in my art studio, where we attempted to lay some foolproof, “easy-click” vinyl tile. The instructions claimed you just needed to “gently tap” the edges with a rubber mallet. You already know how this tragedy ends. After hours of backbreaking labor, the very last stubborn corner refused to snap into position. Sweating profusely while huffing and puffing, my hubster swung that mallet with the fury of Thor. He missed the tile completely and pancaked his own finger with a force shifting tectonic plates. Yep, we hit our breaking point. We have officially updated our DIY philosophy to “DON’T INJURE YOURSELF.” For our latest flooring project, we gladly handed over the credit card to actual, licensed professionals. It cost a bit more financially, but our remaining digits are throwing a celebration. These days, when we count the cost of home improvements, we literally count on whatever working fingers and toes we have left!

Creative Submission A Wonderful World By Autumn Brodock A little bird on a single branch Who sings his song with glee, Is a bird who has no worries at all, it’s a wonderful world to me. A dozen colorful butterflies Who flutter for us to see, Makes a perfect example of nature, it’s a wonderful world to me. An eagle who soars over canyons, Higher than the tallest tree, He is the symbol of freedom, it’s a wonderful world to me. Every baby who’s born alive Every child who’s strong and healthy, They’re such precious things to hold, it’s a wonderful world to me. Every prayer and wish that gets answered, Whatever else makes you happy, And all the blessings we are given, it’s a wonderful world to me. However small something may look Or insignificant it may be, If they’re big or small they count, it’s a wonderful world to me. If you want the happiness to life My dear friend that’s the key, If I look at things with the right perspective, it’s a wonderful world to me.

Autumn is a 17-year-old homeschooled senior this year. She loves cats and enjoys playing her guitar, solving Rubik’s cubes, and writing stories and poetry.

We love celebrating creativity in all its forms and invite our readers to be part of it. Simply Hers is currently accepting creative submissions, including poetry, original artwork, and short stories for potential inclusion in upcoming issues. Whether you’re a seasoned creator or just beginning to share your work, we would be honored to consider your submission. Please send your pieces to submissions@simplyhers.net, along with a brief bio. We look forward to seeing and sharing creativity within our community.

20 | | SimplyHers.net SimplyHers.net

CREATIVE SUBMISSION

A Flower Lost - A Short Story A

This story is an allegory about love, loss, grief, and finding hope after heartbreak. By A. B. Mann

ll flowers are beautiful. Some are small and full of colors, some are large and plain. Sometimes they smell so addictive that you can’t let go, and sometimes they make you hold your breath to avoid gagging. Each flower is unique and wonderful, even if they come from the same garden. Each with their own imperfections that make them perfect. One day, a woman decided to grow her own garden. Her husband agreed and was excited, but not as excited as she. Her plans and preparations began immediately! She rushed to the garden store to purchase everything they could possibly need—maybe even some things they didn’t. She thought of every possible situation for her garden. What type of flowers would grow? Would they be pink or blue? How many would they have in total, she wondered? Some people were satisfied with one beautiful flower that they spoiled with the best soils, the freshest of water, and the best spots of sunlight. While others were more ambitious—with more flowers than one thought possible in just one garden. The woman tended to lean towards the latter, believing her love could nurture so many flowers. She knew there were risks with gardening. Some flowers had thorns, some could even be poisonous if not tended to well. She hoped with all her heart that she could care for them in a way that it did not matter in what form they grew, just that they were hers, and she was theirs. She came home with all the tools and supplies needed for the best garden. She had even bought books and magazines that she read until the pages were bent and filled with notes. She planned out her garden before beginning her work. Where the flowers would grow, when 22 | SimplyHers.net

to begin planting, how long each would take to grow, even the amount of water and sunlight required. She read that sometimes plants needed supplements to help them grow stronger. She bought every kind just in case the flowers seemed to favor a specific one. She was so thorough in her planning.She researched and studied so much that her husband laughed to himself. The world is full of flowers, she was overthinking the process. Finally the timing was perfect, she had done all that she could. She found the perfect place for her garden to grow, and gathered the supplies for a day full of hard work. The sun was out and shining so brightly, everything seemed perfect for her new adventure. She laid the soil as she learned from her books, making sure it was fluffed up for room to move. She meticulously placed each seed with space to grow, and covered them gently to keep them safe. Pouring water over top to give them a drink, being sure the water was clean and cold. She cared for them each day, through rain or shine. When the weather seemed like too much, she would stand in the rain holding an umbrella so the flowers wouldn’t flood. Through intense heat, furious winds, random spouts of cold, the woman fought for each seed that pushed to grow. Sometimes, she would believe it was working. Something would sprout up and she would think she saw green, but to her disappointment it would be a weed. The weeds would come and grow and be stronger than she would like. She would pull them out and let the bad week pass, hoping the next time she saw something, it would be her flower. This went on for months and she began to wonder if she was cut out for this. Was she doing something wrong? She

was following all the books, she watered the soil when she was supposed to, was using the right supplements, yet everything seemed to be lacking. Was it her? Did she just not have the “green thumb” that others did? Or was she still just not doing something right? Doubts and questions filled her mind as each passing opportunity went by. That is until one day, she noticed something different. Usually around this time of her planning, is when the weeds would burst out of the soil. But she found none. She waited another day, then another, and still no weeds. She felt her chest tighten with hope but did not say anything as she waited. After almost a week of the weeds being absent, she risked a small look into the garden. To her complete amazement, she saw a small growing stem with not one, but two green little leaves. She gasped with awe and covered her mouth. She bounced with excitement and cried with joy. It finally was happening, a flower of her own in the garden she worked month after month to nourish and protect. She wanted to shout and share the news with everyone she could think of. Obviously she first ran to her husband to tell him the tidings, and together they looked at the strong two leaves. They held each other and laughed over the happiness they felt. They laid their together in the grass next to their growing flower and talked about what future it had. They talked and laughed and cried and kissed for what seemed like the whole day, there next to their garden that held their new hope. The woman struggled to leave that spot, worried about what could happen in the night. It was no longer a maybe, but a true bud growing—so many new worries filled her mind. Her husband told her to trust and relax, she could tend to the flower best if she was not so nervous. She did all that she could, but even her dreams were now about the growing flower. It consumed her mind throughout the day; while at work, while making dinner, all she could think about was her precious flower. Soon it was taller and stronger than ever. She finally told her family and friends about the newest addition and the love she had for it. Most were elated and questioned if she needed accessories for her garden. Would she prefer traditional gnomes or something specific for her garden? She smiled at their care and discussed the possibilities. Some though were more guarded, worried she was planning too much for just a sprout. “Flowers are so fragile,” they would tell her, just don’t be too excited they chided. But who could not be excited? Why focus on the potential bad when there was already proof of tremendous good? The husband excused them from those conversations, he saw no point in his wife hearing such sadness. Together they continued to plan and discuss all the plans for the

future. This was their first garden and flower, and all the questions from planning seemed much more real. With even more time and growth, they began to see a bud. It was brilliant and small, with a tint of pink beginning to show. The woman and man were thrilled to their core! A pink flower for them to adore. Again they shared the news to those they held close, with much less disapproval from the skeptics. They bought a windchime that sang and placed spring butterfly stakes nearby for their flower to enjoy. The time was getting close, and they were sure their flower would bloom. Until one morning, when the woman noticed something she feared most of all. In her garden bed that she meticulously cared for, just underneath her growing flower, laid one of its petals. It was so small and light, she didn’t think much of it. Until she returned again soon after and many more had fallen. She yelled for her husband whose eyes became wide at the sight. He grabbed a nearby pot and filled it with soil. Gently he wrapped his hands around the roots of their flower and put it safely into the new fresh pot. Together with tears in their eyes, they drove quickly but silently to the botanist. The woman clutched the pot to her chest with all that she had, and her tears fell harder as the petals covered her hands. There were so many petals— they not only covered her hands now, but her lap and even the floor. She will never forget the amount of petals. Together they sat in a cold white room that had lights far too bright. The botanist ran many tests, took photos and asked them questions. It felt like hours dragged on as they waited for answers. Anyone who has ever watched any kind of show involving botany knows what it means when the specialists come in with a fake half smile on their face. Both the husband and wife already knew before he entered, but they pretended for each other they didn’t. They were told their flower had wilted too much, and they would not be able to watch it bloom. The flower carefully had to be removed from its pot, and the woman held it fully in her hands for the first time. Even wilted and with its pink color fading, it was the most beautiful flower she had ever seen. The flower still had a smell she would remember and treasure forever. She wrapped her finger in the flower leaves, memorizing the feeling. She held the flower close to her face, kissing it softly so that it would never doubt how much it is loved. With her husband holding the two of them in his arms, they cried for the lost flower. They cried and held one another until the botanist gave even more unfortunate news. It was time to say goodbye. The couple went home a couple days later. They walked 23

past their now empty garden bed with their heads lowered. Their days went on as before but with less joy, less light. The woman would cry often, every time she thought of her flower. She thought about what could have happened. What she did wrong. She followed all of the guides, the rules, the advice. She cared for her garden more than herself. She maintained her garden with precision, never stepping out of line or routine. Her flower was well fed, only the best soils to give it sustenance. She watered it often, allowed the right amount of sunlight, and spoke to it gently, lovingly. Yet her flower had withered. Why did it wither? Months, years, or maybe days had passed, the woman wasn’t sure. All she knew is she had to return to life where everyone else but her and her husband forgot about their flower. Other lives went on, and hers did too, but she did not. She would work and clean and cook and read and write and draw and grocery shop and smile when she knew she was supposed to, but it wasn’t really her. How could it be, when part of her, her flower, was not there with her? How did people sing and celebrate when her flower would not be there to watch and enjoy it too? After a long time, the woman looked out her window and saw the garden bed she normally avoided. It looked lonely like her, so she thought she would give it company. She sat in the grass next to it. The butterflies she once placed were fading in color. The windchimes were silent as she sat there and gazed at the dry, hard, covered in dead leaves, soil. She touched the rough dirt and moved it around, seeing much fresher and less pale soil underneath. For just a brief moment, she had a spark of hope. Maybe she could try to grow another flower? Immediately struck with guilt, how could she even think of it? She did not, could not, and would not forget her beautiful pink flower. Did she have to? In order to grow another? She shook her head furiously, hitting the cold hard soil that took her flower from her. She yelled and screamed, angry at the world. Angry at the dirt, at the sun, and herself for failing her flower. Her shouts quieted into sobs. She cried and cried until her face was puffy and red, until her nose ran and her tears fell into the too hard soil. As she continued to cry, the sky rumbled with what she believed was its own sadness for her flower. Together, she and the sky cried. They cried until she could not tell apart her tears from the rain. She stayed there by her garden bed and thought of all she would not see with her flower. She also thought of another flower, one that she could watch grow here in this life.

When she started to wonder if it would be okay, if her perfect pink flower would allow her to be okay, the rain began to slow. The woman pulled her head up from the soil, her face covered in a mix of tears, rain, and mud. Just as her thoughts led her to think she could never garden again, the sun peaked through the clouds at just the right angle. Through the sprinkle of the clouds’ tears, the sun gave a blessing the woman had not expected. More colors than she’d ever seen before erupted in silence in the sky, seemingly leading to the corner of her garden bed. At first, she marveled at the rainbow that appeared to ease her pain. Then with a sudden light in her chest, she felt herself being pulled toward the end of the prism that touched her garden bed. A blossom of hope and dread filled her simultaneously. She felt rushed and yet was deliberate to make her way as calmly as possible. At first it seemed almost empty, that untouched side of the soil. There were spider webs holding small insects hostage, leftover crumpled and deteriorating leaves—but there! There it was, just underneath a misplaced yellow leaf. Protected by the leaf that she did not place herself, that she had not prepared diligently as before, was a little bud. So small, so new, so alive, it surprised her to her core. Could it be true? What if it was just a weed impersonating a flower? What if it was just a leftover piece of her past flower that hadn’t fully left? What if this flower wilted too? Was she even allowed to love a new bud? She fiercely loved her little lost flower. In memory of the precious love, the woman planted a tree. The flower would no longer grow with her, but the tree would, and the woman could remember each day she saw the tree. She promised to always cherish the time they had. Never replacing or forgetting her pink flower that she knew she would see again someday. So the woman put on her gloves, pulled out her watering can, and she began to garden again. She watered it when needed, she watched as closely as last time, maybe, definitely more. She helped her rainbow flower grow, loving it every way she could. The grief never left, but she learned that her garden, and her heart could grow larger than she ever believed.

Submitted by a local teacher and mother of two beautiful boys: Davey and Ben.

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AT THE AT THE HOLIDAY HOLIDAY SEASON SEASON OUR THOUGHTS OUR THOUGHTS TURN TURN GRATEFULLY GRATEFULLY TO THOSE TO THOSE THAT THAT HAVE MADE HAVE MADE OUR OUR PROGRESS POSSIBLE PROGRESS POSSIBLE IT IS IT IS IN IN THIS THIS SPIRIT SPIRIT WE WE SAY SAY SIMPLY BUT SIMPLY BUT SINCERELY... SINCERELY...

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Business Spotlight

Expressions Studio Capturing the Moments That Matter By Elyse Apel For Lisa and Patrick Cook, the love of photography has woven throughout some of the most significant seasons of their lives.

At Expressions Studio, one of Lisa and Patrick’s favorite parts of the job is the relationships they build with their clients.

Now, after spending several years photographing clients without a permanent studio, the couple is excited to welcome clients into the newly renovated Expressions Studio in Coldwater.

“They come to you multiple times, and the kids get comfortable,” Lisa says. “So then you get some really true personalities that come out in their pictures, which is just a real joy to get to experience and to watch.”

“To have a studio again has been super exciting for us,” Lisa says. “An enormous step.” Patrick has been a photographer since 2007. When Lisa met him in 2012, she already loved photography, but Patrick helped her learn how to do it professionally. They began working together after they married in 2013. The couple eventually opened a studio in Quincy before separating and divorcing. After rebuilding their relationship, they remarried in 2021. Through the ups and downs though, photography has remained a constant. “Our love of photography has weaved through all of it,” Lisa says. Expressions Studio offers a wide range of photography specialties, including sports, senior portraits, weddings, family and children’s sessions, and mini sessions. One of the biggest events of the year is Santa photography, which has become a cherished tradition for many families. Santa sessions are also a favorite for both Lisa and Patrick. For them, though, the experience is about much more than creating a Christmas photograph. “It’s about getting the opportunity to create tradition and magical memories for people. So clients can walk into the experience, feel the Christmas magic, and take it home in photos year after year,” Lisa says. 28 | SimplyHers.net

At the heart of Expressions Studio’s work is a desire to celebrate people for who they are. “I love the fact that it celebrates people and who they are,” Lisa explains. “Celebrating people and their journeys and their growth and the moments of life is really quite an honor and a joy to get to do.” More than anything, Lisa and Patrick love the opportunity photography gives them to connect with the community. “We enjoy interacting with people,” Lisa says. “We enjoy being creative. We really enjoy creating something together, and really helping people express who they are.” Expressions Studio operates under Joyous Journey LLC, which also offers courses and other educational opportunities for photographers. Outside of work, family is at the center of Lisa and Patrick’s lives. Much of their free time is spent watching movies, having family game nights, and keeping up with the growing interests of their two sons, Quinn and Rafe.

For more information or to schedule a session, contact Expressions Studio at lisa@joyousjourneyphoto.com or call/ text (517) 617-2567. You can also follow Expressions Studio on Facebook.

| SimplyHers.net

Business Spotlight

Haul Out Junk LLC Reliable and Affordable Service

By Elyse Apel Sometimes the best business ideas come from recognizing a with customers, and following through from the first conversation problem that needs solving. For Austin Janes, that’s exactly what to the final pickup. he did when he founded Haul Out Junk LLC in 2024. “I want people to know they can count on us,” Austin says. “We “I saw a need in the community for a reliable and affordable way take pride in being reliable, professional and friendly.” to get rid of things people no longer wanted,” Austin says. That commitment becomes especially important when a job After years of working in customer service, Austin decided involves more than simply removing unwanted belongings. to build the business around serving homeowners, property Haul Out Junk sometimes helps families clean out the home of managers, contractors and businesses in need of dumpster someone who has passed away. rentals, junk removal, light demolition, and property cleanups. “We call ourselves Haul Out Junk, but we know that not What first began as a one-man operation has since grown into everything we haul away is junk,” Austin says. “A lot of times, a full-service business handling projects of all sizes throughout there’s a story behind those things, and we try to be respectful of Hillsdale and the surrounding counties. that.” “We have your junk removal covered,” Austin says. Along with a wide range of cleanup and hauling needs, Haul Out Junk also takes on larger, more complex jobs. These projects involve much more than simply loading items onto a truck. Austin explains that he approaches each job with careful attention and planning. “Every job is different, so we take the time to plan it out and make sure we have the right equipment and people to get it done safely and efficiently,” he says. “That requires careful planning and coordination.” For customers who prefer to tackle a cleanup themselves, Haul Out Junk offers five different dumpster sizes. Each rental includes seven days, giving customers time to work through a project at their own pace. The company handles delivery, pickup, and disposal. For Austin, providing exceptional customer service is essential. That means providing accurate quotes, communicating clearly 32 | SimplyHers.net

Whenever possible, items that still have value are given a second life rather than simply being discarded. Austin has taken trailer loads of usable belongings from cleanouts to The Naomi Davis Shelterhouse in Coldwater, a women’s and children’s domestic violence shelter. “It’s rewarding to know that something someone no longer needs can still help someone else,” Austin says. Looking ahead, Austin is excited to continue serving his community and growing the business he has built through dedication and long hours. “At the end of the day, I want to provide excellent service to the community,” Austin says. “My family makes all that hard work worth it.”

To learn more or request a quote for junk removal, dumpster rentals or cleanup services, call Haul Out Junk LLC at (517) 200-8305. You can also find Haul Out Junk LLC on Facebook.

Owners: Frank & Carolyn Mancino

Quality Second to None!

ITALIAN DINNERS NACHOS • SALADS Mon.-Thurs. 11 am - 10 pm Fri. & Sat. 11 am - 11 pm Sunday 12 pm - 8 pm

437-9585

256 CARLETON RD. • HILLSDALE

COUNTY OF HILLSDALE VETERANS SERVICES LOCAL SERVICES FOR VETERANS: We can assist veterans in filing for all Federal, State and County Veteran’s benefits. TRANSPORTATION: Hillsdale County offers transportation to Ann Arbor Monday through Thursday by appointment only and for VA Clinic or hospital only.

Director of Veteran Affairs Renae Shircliff — r.shircliff@co.hillsdale.mi.us 33 McCollum St. Suite 108, Hillsdale • 517-437-3630

Beauty Luxuries to Put on Your Christmas List

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1. A Beautiful Robe

A soft, plush robe can make your morning coffee or evening routine feel instantly more luxurious. Choose one you will actually want to live in all winter.

2. A Signature Fragrance

There is something special about having a fragrance that feels uniquely yours. Put that perfume you’ve been eyeing on your list, or ask for a holiday set that lets you try several products.

3. An Upgraded Pillowcase

A small upgrade with a luxurious feel, a silk or satin pillowcase can also be gentler on hair and skin. Choose a pretty color and make bedtime feel a little more special.

4. A Quality Hair Tool

A new curling iron, styling brush, or blow-dry brush can be more than a beauty splurge. The right tool can make getting ready faster and easier.

5. A Luxe Face Cream

Winter is hard on skin, so a rich moisturizer is both practical and indulgent. Look for hydrating ingredients such as ceramides, hyaluronic acid or squalane.

6. A Beautiful Candle

A sophisticated candle can transform an ordinary evening at home. Look for warm winter scents such as amber, cedar, vanilla or cinnamon.

7. A Spa-Worthy Body Care Set

Body butter, bath soak, scrub, and lotion can turn an everyday shower into a little athome spa experience. It is the kind of gift that encourages you to slow down and enjoy it.

8. A Piece of Jewelry You’ll Keep Forever

It does not have to be extravagant. A classic pair of earrings, delicate necklace, or simple bracelet can become an everyday favorite for years to come.

By Elyse Apel

Hillsdale Here is the new Community Calendar, where local events happening in Hillsdale, Branch, and Coldwater 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 December 1.

After-School Crafting: Nov. 2, Nov. 16, Dec. 7 from 3:45 - 4:30 p.m. at Hillsdale Community Library. Kids of all ages are invited to join for crafting after school on the first and third Monday of each month at 3:45 p.m. Craft projects vary and are announced on social media. There is no cost to participate, and no library card or registration is required. Children ages 9 and under must be accompanied by an adult for craft assistance and supervision. Homeschool Meetup: Nov. 2, Nov. 9, Nov. 16, Nov. 23, Nov. 30, Dec. 7, Dec. 14, Dec. 21, Dec. 28 at 10:15 a.m. - noon at Hillsdale Community Library. Homeschool families are invited to join this informal, self-run group to learn, brainstorm and socialize together. There is no cost to attend, and no registration or library card is required. Coffee and Books: Nov. 17 and Dec. 15 at 11 a.m. - noon at Hillsdale Community Library. There is no cost, registration, or library card required to attend. Hillsdale’s Great Give: Dec. 1. A community-wide day of giving in support of local nonprofits and organizations making a difference throughout Hillsdale County. Hosted by the Hillsdale County Community Foundation, the event offers several ways to participate, including in-person donations, online giving, and drive-by drop boxes. Follow the Hillsdale County Community Foundation on Facebook for more information and details.

Tecumseh S eniors: Live Well – Caregiver Burnout: Nov. 4 at 1:30 p.m. at the AJ Smith Recreation Center, 810 N. Evans St., Tecumseh. Part of a free informational series for retirees and local senior citizens, this session will be led by Martha York of WellWise Services Area Agency on Aging and address caregiver burnout. Preregistration is encouraged. To register or for more information, call 517423-5602 or visit tecumsehparksandrec.recdesk.com. The Book Social with Novella Bound: Nov. 4 from 6-8 p.m. at The Stacy Mansion in Tecumseh. Celebrate cozy season with an evening featuring a book exchange, hot chocolate bar, crafting and conversation Board Game Club: Nov. 8, Nov. 15, Nov. 22, Nov. 29, Dec. 6, Dec. 13, Dec. 20, Dec. 27 from 1-4 p.m. at Tecumseh District Library, 215 N. Ottawa St., Tecumseh. Unplug and enjoy board games ranging from strategy games and cooperative challenges to quick party classics. Participants may choose from the library’s collection or bring their own games to share. Admission is free, and no registration is required. Bean-to-Bar Chocolate Tasting: Nov. 15 at 3 p.m. at Harvest Chocolate, 110 W. Chicago Blvd. in

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downtown Tecumseh. Learn about the chocolate-making process, from cacao bean harvesting and fermentation to finished chocolate bars, and enjoy a tasting of locally made chocolate. Additional dates are available. Holiday Night Market: Dec. 4 from 4-8 p.m. at The Market on Evans, 213 N. Evans St., Tecumseh. Coinciding with Tecumseh’s annual Christmas Parade, the market will feature live music, food trucks, Santa’s house, and a towering Christmas tree. Santa will end the parade at the market to receive the key from the mayor.

Coldwater Stretch and Story: Nov. 5 from 5:45 - 6:30 p.m. at Branch District Library, 10 E. Chicago St, Coldwater. Relax so deeply, you’ll forget you’re exercising! Join resident instructor Kayla for a gentle, beginner-friendly yoga flow accompanied by a young adult audiobook. Mats are provided, but you’re welcome to bring your own. Indoor Christmas Market: Dec. 11 at the Dr. Browne Recreation Center. Enjoy an evening of holiday shopping with a variety of vendors offering last-minute Christmas gifts. Visitors can also enjoy hot cocoa and other treats from food trucks, participate in a make-and-take craft and take photos with Santa.

Adrian Christmas Riverwalk and Holiday Light Parade: Dec. 4 in downtown Adrian. Celebrate the holiday season with the annual Holiday Light Parade, a winter wonderland and the Comstock Christmas Riverwalk tree lighting at 8 p.m. in Comstock Park. Musical performances will take place before the tree lighting ceremony. Handmade Ornaments: Dec. 5 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Adrian Center for the Arts, 1375 N. Adrian Highway, Adrian. Join instructor Christine Filipek for a hands-on class making up to six handmade ornaments to decorate your Christmas tree or give as gifts. The cost is $50, and the class is open to ages 13 and older. Register online. Broadway Holidays: Dec. 12 - Dec. 14 at The Croswell. A Croswell concert featuring both favorites of the holiday season as well as highlights from the Croswell shows you’ve loved the most! Tickets available online.

Jackson omen’s Expo & Craft Show: Nov. 14 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at W JaxNaz Church, 3905 Clinton Road, Jackson. Shop local vendors, discover unique handmade treasures and get a head start on holiday shopping. Bring a friend and enjoy a day of shopping and browsing. Follow JaxNaz Church on Facebook for event updates and vendor highlights. Evermore Crafts Fall Craft Show: Nov. 14 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the American Legion, 3200 Lansing Ave., Jackson. Shop handmade creations from Evermore Crafts, including glitter pens, freshies, 3D-printed accessories, rhinestone art and tumblers. Support small businesses and find unique gifts for the holiday season. Christkindl Holiday Market: Nov. 27-Dec. 20 on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. at River & Rail Farm Stop, 137 W. North St., Jackson. Inspired by traditional European Christmas markets, this festive outdoor chalet village will feature local artisans, unique gifts, festive foods, holiday treats, live music, special events, twinkling lights and seasonal cheer. Visitors can shop local, enjoy seasonal treats and celebrate the holidays with family and friends. Holiday Shop: Nov. 27 from 5-8 p.m. and Nov. 28 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Commonwealth Commerce Center. Shop local vendors offering unique gifts, handmade goods and holiday finds. Enjoy free gift wrapping, adult beverages and a festive atmosphere while supporting small businesses. Admission is free. For more information, call (517) 784-0059. Christmas on the Farm: Dec. 5 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Dec. 6 from noon to 4 p.m. at the Waterloo Farm Museum. Tour the farmhouse, authentic log house, and eight outbuildings decorated with hand-decorated greens. The holiday celebration will feature homemade baked goods, unique gifts, vendors, a wreath sale, live music, concessions, blacksmith demonstrations and more. Christmas Town Craft Show: Dec. 5 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the American 1 Credit Union Event Center, 128 W. Ganson St., Jackson. Shop more than 100 handmade craft vendors offering unique gifts and holiday treasures. Admission is $5 at the door. A Brassy Christmas Concert: Dec. 6 at 3 p.m. at Weatherwax Hall, inside the Jackson Symphony Orchestra building in Jackson. The Jackson Symphony Orchestra invites families to enjoy a festive afternoon of holiday music, featuring classic carols and seasonal favorites with a brass-forward sound. Doors open at 2 p.m. Seating is general admission and first-come, first-served. Tickets are available at jacksonsymphony.org or by calling (517) 782-3221.

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The gift of SAFETY for the ones you LOVE. TIRE INSPECTION • TUNE - UP • OIL CHANGE General Auto Repair New Tire Sales & Installation

GENE’S AUTO SERVICE, LLC

17 Hillsdale St. | Hillsdale | 517.439.1221 | M-F 8-5

Business Spotlight

The Livery Antiques By Elyse Apel

For Debbie Hanshaw, The Livery Antiques began with an unexpected auction purchase and a building she simply could not bring herself to tear down. In 2012, Debbie attended an auction in Allen, expecting to see the contents of a store being sold. Instead, she learned the property itself was also up for auction. “I called my husband that day, and I said I might be buying this little store over here,” Debbie recalls, laughing. She ended up buying it. At first, Debbie planned to tear the building down and replace it with a new structure designed to look old. But as she spent more time inside, she began to see something worth preserving. “There was just something about going into that building. It was just so relaxing and just so peaceful,” she says. “I thought there’s got to be more to this than what I’m seeing.” Her instincts proved right. As the building was taken apart and restored, Debbie discovered that it had originally been a blacksmith shop. Original writing remains on the walls, including the old saying, “Trust today and pay tomorrow.” She also uncovered the original bellows. For three years, Debbie worked to restore the building, bringing it up to code while preserving as much of its history and character as possible. The name The Livery Antiques was inspired by the building’s history and its location near the Old Allen Mill. It was a fitting name for a business built around appreciating the past. That appreciation for antiques began long before Debbie ever owned a store. As a child, she would attend auctions with her mother and find herself drawn to the things other people overlooked. “I would always be hanging out around the burn pile, going, ‘Oh my gosh, why are they throwing that away?’” she says. “I can just

envision these people using this, or building this, or working on this.” Today, those same primitive pieces she once saw being discarded are among the most sought-after items in the store. While The Livery Antiques began as a strictly antique shop, Debbie has expanded the business to include home decor, handmade furniture and candles, including Swan Creek candles and melts, which are handmade in Ohio. The combination of old and new has become part of what makes the store special. Debbie explains that customers come not only to purchase something, but also for decorating inspiration. “They say when they walk through the door, they just decompress,” Debbie says. “They’re just relaxed, happy.” For Debbie, the people have become one of the greatest parts of owning the business. Over the years, she has developed lasting friendships with customers, many of whom continue to visit and support the store simply because they want to see it continue to flourish. That community support has meant even more in recent weeks following the passing of her husband, John, who was by Debbie’s side throughout the journey. “He always supported me,” she says. From helping restore the building to making the 40-mile round trip on a tractor to clear snow from the store, her husband was part of The Livery Antiques from the beginning. Today, Debbie continues that work herself, carrying forward the business and the place they built together.

The Livery Antiques is open Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. through the Christmas season, with additional Friday hours expected after Allen’s annual Christmas festival Nov. 7-8. 106 Prentiss St. Allen, MI 49227 You can follow it on Facebook at The Livery Antiques.

“Some of the most skilled accountants I have met. Some of the kindest people you will ever meet. They know their stuff!” — J.E.

Bookkeeping, payroll, and tax services customized to fit your needs. Call for appointment!

576 Olds Street, Jonesville, MI Ph: 517.797.1173 info@lar-cpa.com

Celebrate Giving Tuesday by participating in The Great Give - day dedicated to supporting

local nonprofit organizations in Hillsdale County.

DECEMBER 1, 2026 9 AM - M

Three ways to support Hillsdale County this season!

EARLY GIVING

Stop by the Foundation office from November 9-25. Located at 2 S. o*e Street.

ONLINE GIVING

visit www.abouthccf.org

EVENT DAY DROP OFF

Drive through or drop off on De e! er 1 t he tivit+ enter: 1300 S. i &d e d, i &d e,

Stream Live on

Talk Back with Doug Spade & Mike Clements

Saturday morning 9-Noon

HITS FROM THE 60’S, 70’S, 80’S, 90’S Serving Hillsdale & Lenawee Co, and Beyond

www.LocalBuzzRadio.com 44 | SimplyHers.net

Photo by Synergy In Motion Studios

Do-It-Yourself

Holiday Wreaths here is something welcoming about a wreath on the front door during the holidays. And you don’t have to spend a fortune on one—something you can easily do. With a simple wreath and a few inexpensive supplies, you can create something festive and personal.

Start With the Basics

Begin with a grapevine, wire, or evergreen wreath form. For a traditional look, add evergreen branches, pinecones, berries and a wide ribbon. Secure everything with floral wire, especially if your wreath will hang outdoors. Don’t worry about making it perfectly symmetrical. A little variation gives a wreath a more natural, collected look.

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Bring the Outdoors In For a rustic wreath, look for natural materials such as pinecones, dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks, eucalyptus, twigs and evergreen branches. Arrange the larger pieces first, then fill in the spaces with smaller accents. This style works especially well with a simple burlap or velvet ribbon. You can also add a few small bells for a little extra holiday charm.

Use What You Have Before buying new decorations, look around your house. Old ornaments, leftover ribbon, bells and even scraps of fabric can all be repurposed. Have a box of mismatched ornaments? Attach a collection to a plain wreath form for a colorful, nostalgic look. Or keep things simple by wrapping a wreath with ribbon and finishing it with one oversized bow.

Make It Your Own

Choose one focal point before you begin, such as a large bow, ornament cluster or decorative sign. Then build the rest of the wreath around it. If your wreath will be outside, choose weatherresistant materials and secure heavier decorations with floral wire rather than glue alone. Most importantly, don’t worry about making your wreath look like something from a store. A DIY wreath is supposed to reflect your style.

RELATIONAL REPAIR By Cherith Nottingham, LLPC Christian Care Connection, LLC Coldwater, MI

As a clinical counselor working with individuals and couples, mental health concerns often show up most clearly in relationships. An example would be anxiety, which begins internally but becomes visible when pursuing connection with the people closest to us or even distant from us. While I love talking about the positive aspects of secure relationships—feeling seen, safe and soothed—much of my work involves helping clients identify maladaptive patterns that disrupt those connections. Rupture in relationships is universal. When asked, clients often describe how their major arguments began with something “really dumb.” We’ve all been there. Rupture is guaranteed, but repair is the part we struggle with. Repair work is essential for thriving relationships; it requires intentionality. Some deeply value repair and want to work toward it. I relate to this personally—I’m a relational fixer by profession and nature—repair work holds deep meaning for me. But repair work could easily be maladaptive when our desires become pressure. In work with domestic violence victims, coercion is a familiar term. For this piece, I’m not talking about unmistakable coercion, but something much more subtle: a softer coercion. This occurs when we push for resolution before the other person is ready or is struggling with trust issues. Even with good intentions, our efforts could be perceived as manipulative or controlling.

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Why Good Intentions Aren’t Always Enough

This is difficult to acknowledge, especially when our intentions are rooted in hope. It’s important to ask: Is my desire for repair being received as pressure? Sometimes, after sitting with that question, we can see how our efforts might feel overwhelming to the other person. So, what do we do in a moment when repair matters deeply to us, but the other person isn’t ready? A simple grounding skill can help regulate your nervous system and prevent escalation into coercion—no matter how soft it is: 1. Name one thing you can safely control. 2. Name two things that are unchanged. 3. Name three things you are thankful for. This exercise shifts your focus from the other person’s readiness to your own regulation. It interrupts the urge to fix and creates space for healthier engagement. Of course, this is only a small tool for a much larger issue—one shaped by years of relational patterns for both parties. If you need deeper support, our office offers specialized help for individuals navigating recovery from coercion or relational harm—as a victim or as a person with coercive tendencies. Christian Care Connection in Coldwater is here to help you safely explore these patterns and begin moving toward healthier relationships.

Now Accepting NEW Patients! 26

Ask for Rob for a

Great SAYLES Experience!

Attorney Lorrie Miller

Serving Hillsdale, Branch, and Lenawee Counties

A Truly Personal Experience

Rob Sayles

hillsdalelaw.com

3780 Carleton Rd / M-99 S • Hillsdale, MI 49242 Cell (517) 499-1771 • Work (517) 849-2121 robsayles @stillwellford.com www.stillwellford.com Call us at (517) 278-2505 or email LMiller@HillsdaleLaw.com

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ter Clothes Win e d vi dren in Ne o r Chil ed r P ! fo

We Know Numbers. But, You’re Not A Number To Us!

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

Call Us Today! 517-439-1585 HOURS:

Program coordinators work with Community Action Agency to

Monday - Friday 8-5

determine eligibility for program participation and make arrangements with Meijer to coordinate shopping.

2,637

Since 2007

1522 Hudson Rd. Hillsdale | www.bildneranddonahue.com

children have been served

158,870

Since 2007

has been directed towards providing

warm winter clothing for local children.

222

In 202 2025

children were helped because of your donation

My donation to the “Warm the Children” nd

Please make checks payable to: Hillsdale County Community Foundation PO Box 276 Hillsdale, MI 49242

Name:

All donations are tax deductible.

Address:

For a secure, confidential, online giving option, simply visit www.abouthccf.org and click on the button that says, "Donate" on the home page.

City, State, Zip:

Or, scan the QR code to go directly to the fund.

Phone #: Publish my name on the donors list: Yes

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Christmas

Present Wrapping

Wrapping Christmas presents can be more than a last-minute holiday chore. With a few simple techniques and thoughtful materials, even the most basic gifts can become beautiful additions beneath the tree. Choose a color scheme. Create a coordinated look by selecting two or three complementary colors, such as classic red and green or winter whites and golds. Get creative with decorations. Skip the traditional bow and try twine, dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks, sprigs of evergreen, or small ornaments. Make odd-shaped gifts easier to wrap. Not every present comes in a neat box. Place clothing, toys and other irregularly shaped items in gift bags, or use fabric gift wrap for a reusable alternative. Set up a wrapping station. Gather supplies in one place before beginning. A basket or storage bin can keep scissors, tape, tags and ribbon organized, while a dedicated table provides room to work. Wrapping several gifts at once can save time during the busiest days of the season.

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