Women's Edition Colorado Springs - May 2019

May! A Time to Sing and Dance!

I can’t wait until Mother’s Day on May 12th. It’s not just because we love our moms and want them to have a special day. Here in the Rocky Mountains, that’s the day it’s safe to plant or pot our flowers without the threat of freeze…hopefully.

May is a month of promise for me. There are more activities outdoors, and people seem happier. When my neighbors are out walking their dogs, they often stop and say hi. On the weekends, I often leave my front door open, and some of the neighbors’ pups come to my door for attention. It’s fun to reconnect with friends and neighbors outside, just sitting on the front steps.

There are several occasions to recognize in May, but there is one that has been kind of forgotten—May Day. I thought it might be fun to get acquainted or reacquainted with this fun holiday. May Day is an ancient public holiday that celebrates the arrival of spring. It seems to have been recognized more in schools than anywhere else. I remember dancing around the May pole as a 2nd grader. Twenty kids with the attention spans of gnats ran to the playground and gathered around the tetherball pole, which had been embellished with flowers and 20 long, colorful ribbons attached to the top of the pole. We were instructed to hold the end of a ribbon. Half of us were to dance clockwise as the other half were to circle counter-clockwise. We danced and sang and collided as we twirled and dipped. The end result, intended to be a giant braid of silky color, turned out to be a knotted mess of ribbons, but we were still delighted with ourselves. What made it the most fun was that we were outdoors, surrounded by color and sunshine, singing and wearing flowers in our hair.

Another fun May Day tradition is the May basket, which is a surprise gift meant to say, “Hello!” and “Welcome, springtime!” It’ s easy to join in the fun of May baskets! Fold a piece of colorful construction paper into a cone and tape it closed. Fill it with flowers and attach a ribbon as a handle. Hang it on a friend’s door, ring the doorbell, and hide! Watch as your friend tries to figure out who left this thoughtful gift.

May is extra-special to me for a couple more reasons. My daughter-in-law, Valerie, shares her birthday with her mom, Marcie, on May 11th. Happy birthday, Valerie and Marcie! I love you both.

Anita Howarth, Editor

Points of Interest

Home Heating Service, Inc., wants to help you and your family breathe better. From air purification to heating and cooling to water heaters—they do it all! Flip to page 38 and call to learn about their Spring Perfect Air promotions.

All That Glitters offers a wide variety of jewelry, from modest to extravagant. They also have a full-service repair department and provide excellent customer service. See their ad on page 31.

Are you looking for whole body health…where body, spirit, emotions, and mind come together? Dr. Debbie Ting at Tai Ji Acupuncture is the answer. She offers highly individualized treatments and exceptional care. Learn more on page 3.

Aguirre Specialty Care wants to help you regain your confidence in an intimate way. They provide services in urogynecology, cosmetic vaginal rejuvenation, aesthetic body contouring, and more. Visit the inside front cover for more information.

Women have different healthcare needs during different stages of their lives. At Associates in Women’s Care, they provide comprehensive obstetric and gynecologic care. Find their ad on page 22.

On the Cover: Tru Luxe

For more information, visit www.truluxejeans.com

Retro Refreshed for 2019

What’s Old is New Again

By Holly Bell

Just like the rest of us, designers love to return to favorite style hits of years past. Their job, however, is to seize these old favorites and tweak the style or fabrication to add a fresh, modern vibe. There are so many new spring and summer trends, but the overall theme is a return to femininity and empowerment , along with feeling confident and comfortable. Let ’ s look at some upcoming and nostalgic trends that are likely to affect everyone ’ s wardrobe.

Some of the favorite looks for 2019 include tie-dye. Yes , it ’ s back! This season ’ s tie-dye has had a modern update with meticulous craftsmanship that creates artistic kaleidoscope patterns in unusual color combinations. High-end designers and fashion influencers are among this season ’ s fans.

More conservative but just as appealing is the return of the blazer. Blazers are everywhere this season , pulling together looks that are traditional yet trendy. Fabrics are a bit retro , featuring tweed , plaids , and stretch knits. Styles run the gamut , from boxy cuts to short and fitted to oversized with dominant shoulders reminiscent of the 1980s. You can ’ t really go wrong with purchasing a blazer. They are enormously effective at amplifying a simple outfit into a polished look. New this year is the trend of wearing long , fitted shorts with a blazer.

Denim is also tracking the “ what ’ s old is new again ” update. Bleached denim is on the comeback trail. It seems that people are nostalgic for the old-school feel of comfy , well-worn jeans. Bleached denim comes in an array of styles , from tie-dyed to full-on bleached to ombré. It ’ s showing up on jeans , dresses , jackets , even shoes! Nothing escapes the bleached trend. How do you care for your bleached denim? It ’ s delicate , so wash each item by itself and sparingly. Always wash inside out on a delicate cycle and line dry.

Jumpsuits are making a big comeback on the runways for spring and summer 2019 , and this trend is going forward into the next several seasons. Last year , it was the romper , which proved to be popular with teens. The garment is now elongated into the retro favorite of the 1970s and 1980s jumpsuit. This item of clothing is incredibly versatile! A jumpsuit can be casual with white tennis shoes or sandals but can morph into a dressed-up look with a heel or even a boot in cooler weather. Add some statement jewelry for an overall modern vibe. I prefer the longer length on a jumpsuit because I am short (the one-piece long look elongates the body). For a taller or longer-legged person , the shorter knee length is flattering. Look for a V-neck cross-stretch top for easy in and out.

Polka dots will pepper fashion this year,

adding a touch of whimsy to every imaginable silhouette. The forever cheerful and uplifting pattern will be found in all sizes, colors, and styles. Great for every age, polka dots may rule the fashion landscape. Along with polka dots, bows seem to be appearing on everything from shoes to necklines to jewelry for another whimsical touch.

As an elegant counterpoint to polka dots and bows (and for more conservative and tailored fashionistas), we love the classy and neutral tones of the entire spectrum of beige. This incorporates blush, beige, oatmeal, biscuit, and off-white. There is a demure sophistication about head-to-toe beige. It is always polished and appropriate. Along with this season’s blazer, you can bet this color will be a good investment for years to come.

It seems like the ’80s vibe just won ’t quit, and I love it! Leopard print looks fresh again in blouses, jackets, and shoes. Remember: When wearing an animal print, everything else should be solid and simple, so the focus is on the print. Chanel-inspired chains and chain belts, along with bolder shoulders, add a timely empowerment vibe to fashion this year.

Flattering also is the high waist trend. Everything seems to have a comfortable high waist with a tucked-in top. The look is very retro yet very polished. The top that is made to be worn loose instead of tucked is still in vogue , but it ’ s not as voluminous as in the past. The cut is trimmer and more body-skimming rather than flowing.

The comfort of nostalgia is all around us this year , and we can all use a little comfort. Nostalgia is a powerful feeling of good memories and happy times gone by. Nostalgia feels relaxing and safe—what a great way to get summer started! Let ’ s enjoy these new twists on old looks that bring smiles to our faces!

Editor ’ s Note: Holly has been in the fashion industry for over 30 years as a buyer , boutique store owner , visual merchandiser , and fashion show producer. She is currently the owner of a modeling agency. Holly regularly appears on local TV doing fashion segments. WE

More information at truluxejeans.com

TAURUS

April

19–May 20

Happy birthday, Taurus! Your professional life is vital but will not overshadow your personal affairs and family commitments. All-important priorities will be focused on family. You will feel an aura of love and peace that surrounds you and your loved ones. There is an improvement in interactions that can only be accomplished with optimism and determination, which you now possess. This type of commitment will last a lifetime!

Gemini (May 21–Jun 20) You should have the energy to accomplish your vision. Obstacles are easily evaded, and you feel empowered. Most of the energy you possess comes from the moon!

Cancer (Jun 21–July 22) Taking the creative path will serve you well in life. Don’t fret disappointment—the stars are aligned to bring you success and blessings!

Leo (July 23–Aug 22) Things in life are developing slowly but surely. You are focusing on your independence. You will be exercising your free will in more important matters.

Virgo (Aug 23–Sep 22) This month, you are enjoying family to the fullest! It’s important to surround yourself with loved ones who improve you, internally and externally.

Libra (Sep 23–Oct 22) You plan wisely and never seem to regret using your resources for the good of others! Those in the Libra sign tend to show mercy without judgment to those who are worthy of it, and you are no exception.

happy and fulfilled. Determination and commitment is your motto.

Sagittarius (Nov 22–Dec 22) Your family will be your main focus this month. Other endeavors, professional or otherwise, should be put aside. Don’t worry—you will be able to bring your focus into greater balance at a later time.

Capricorn (Dec 23–Jan 19) Your family and friends are encouraging you to pursue your dreams. Going after what you want can be difficult. With loving support, it is possible!

Aquarius (Jan 20–Feb 18) You are feeling overly health-conscious lately. Indulge in therapeutic activities such as yoga and meditation to stimulate your inner and outer chakras.

Pisces (Feb 19–Mar 20) This is the month to care for yourself! Slow down, unwind, and do not overthink everything. Relax and take care of your own mental and physical health.

Scorpio (Oct 23–Nov 21) The stars are aligned for romance! Your love life may arouse envy in others—they covet your ability to feel WE

Aries (Mar 21–April 19) You are determined and committed to everything that you do! Success will follow you in your traveling plans. The stars are there to bless you and bring you prosperity. Be proud of yourself!

Mothers’ Brunches and Backyard Picnics

By Kate Beiting

Spring Cheesecakes

Combine two 8-ounce packages of softened cream cheese with 2 eggs and 1 cup of sugar. Beat for 3–4 minutes. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla. Line a muffin tin with 12 paper muffin cups. Place a vanilla wafer cookie in the bottom of each cup. Pour the cheesecake batter in, filling each cup about 2/3 of the way. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Cool. Refrigerate. Before serving, top each one with a bit of whipped cream and any berries of your choosing.

Mother’s Day Quiche

Prebake a prepared pie shell for 5–8 minutes. Remove from oven. Beat together 4 eggs with 1/2 cup of half-and-half. Crumble 6 pieces of crispy bacon into the pie shell. Add 1 small can of diced chilies and 1 cup of grated Monterey Jack cheese. Pour in the egg mixture. Place on a cookie sheet and bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes or until a knife tests clean. Let set for 10 minutes.

Homemade Bran Muffins

Mix together 1 and 1/4 cups of flour, 1/2 cup of sugar, 1 Tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. In another bowl, mix 2 cups of All Bran cereal with 1 egg, 1/4 cup of vegetable

SPRING CHEESECAKES

oil, and 1 and 1/4 cups of milk. Let this mixture soak for 3–4 minutes. Add the flour mixture and stir until just combined. Pour evenly into 12 paper-lined muffin cups. Bake at 400 degrees for 20 minutes.

Big Backyard Burgers

Lightly mix 2 pounds of ground chuck or ground round with 1/2 cup of shredded Parmesan, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and several dashes of Worcestershire sauce to taste. Make into 6 or 8 large round patties. Heat the grill to high. Sear burgers for 2 minutes on each side, then turn the grill to medium and cook until done. Add cheese during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Serve with crispy bacon and onion slices on toasted buns.

Grilled Flank Steak

Make a marinade for the steak by mixing together 1/2 cup of soy sauce, 1/2 cup of canola or olive oil, 2 Tablespoons of honey, 5 minced cloves of garlic, 1 teaspoon each of salt and pepper, 1 Tablespoon of dried rosemary, and 2 sliced scallions. Place the marinade in a zip-top bag with a 2-pound cut of flank steak. Marinate in the fridge for 2 hours or overnight.

Discard the marinade. Grill the steak over medium-high heat for about 4 minutes on each side (or until it is done the way you like). Let stand for 5 minutes. Cut across the grain and serve with tortillas or other roasted veggies and sauce.

Three-Bean Picnic Salad

Drain and rinse 1 can each of red kidney beans, cut green beans, and cut waxed beans. Pour into a large bowl and add 1/4 cup of chopped red pepper, 3 Tablespoons of chopped red onion, and 1/2 cup of sliced mushrooms. In another bowl or a mason jar, mix 1/2 cup of vegetable oil, 3 Tablespoons of white wine vinegar (or cider vinegar), 1 Tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and 1–2 Tablespoons of Greek seasoning. Shake or whisk the oil mixture and pour it over the beans. Stir. Cover and refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.

Twice-Baked Potato Poppers

Scrub 4 large baking potatoes. (All quantities can be doubled to make 8 potatoes.) Pierce each one and rub with a bit of canola oil. Bake at 400 degrees for 1 hour or until baked through. Cut the potatoes in half and carefully scoop out the middles—be careful not to tear the potato shells. Mash the potatoes with enough milk to make them creamy. Add 3 Tablespoons of butter, salt and pepper and garlic powder as desired, sour cream, some crumbled crispy

bacon, 1 or 2 chopped green onions, half a can of chopped chilies, and 1/2 cup of pepper Jack or any other cheese you like. Stir well. Fill the halved potato skins with the potato mixture. Sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top. Bake on a foil-lined cookie sheet at 350 degrees for 10–20 minutes.

Roasted Spring Asparagus

Clean and trim 1 pound of fresh asparagus. Place on a parchment-lined jelly roll pan. Mix 2 Tablespoons of olive oil with 1 Tablespoon of balsamic vinegar. Sprinkle this mixture on the asparagus. Put several cloves of garlic in the pan around the asparagus. Roast at 425 degrees for 10–15 minutes.

Rhubarb Crunch

Combine 1 cup of brown sugar with 1 cup of old-fashioned rolled oats, 1 and 1/2 cups of flour, and 1/2 cup of cubed butter. Mix until crumbly, then set aside. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Pour in 4 cups of cleaned and diced rhubarb, 1 cup of sugar, and 3 Tablespoons of flour. Sprinkle the crumb mixture on top. Bake at 375 degrees for 40 minutes.

Adults-Only Island Iced Tea

Mix 1 cup of sweet and sour mix with 3/4 cup each of vodka, gin, orange liqueur, rum, and tequila. Shake or mix well. Add 1 and 1/2 cups of cola. Serve over crushed ice in tall glasses. Drink cautiously—these are potent!

Editor’s Note: Kate has been an Omaha area culinary instructor since 1997. She attended The Institute for the Culinary Arts at Metropolitan Community College in Omaha.

“I

Studio 27 Aesthetic Care

Integrity, Trust, Experience

By Patty Schlegel

Michael Renee Bradburry, RN, is the owner of Studio 27 Aesthetic Care , and she believes that everyone deserves to look better and feel better. She began practicing aesthetic medicine 20 years ago , under the supervision of three doctors. More than 10 years ago , she opened Studio 27 in Old Colorado City , on the corner of 27th Street.

She now has a second location in Woodland Park.

“Studio 27 is a medically supervised spa with a boutique feel,” says Michael. After many years of offering a variety of aesthetic services, she decided to narrow her focus. “I do what I am good at and enjoy doing,” she explains. Her practice is now strictly medical. She offers Botox, fillers, medical-grade chemical peels, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, microneedling, sclerotherapy, HCG diets, and LipoLean. Michael notes that she was one of the first nurse advanced injectors in town and is proud and honored to have been trained by skilled and experienced doctors.

Longtime client G. A. Powers says that anyone can do fillers, but not everyone can achieve the natural results that he gets at Studio 27. People tell him that he looks good, he says—and no one has ever asked him if he has had work done. “Michael’s like an artist,” Mr. Powers says. “She is cognizant of bone structure, contours beautifully, and knows where to inject to avoid bruising.” It’ s knowing where to inject that makes for the most natural look, Michael stresses. “More is never better,” she advises. “I just want to complement their look, not change who they are.”

Michael is proud of her good reputation, of her experience and integrity, and of the trust her clients have in her. Having worked as a nurse in the neonatal intensive care unit, Michael is accustomed to working in conditions that leave no room for error. That’s the level of dedication that she now brings to her clients at Studio 27.

Michael’s work at her studio also involves educating her clients. With so many new businesses advertising aesthetic procedures, Michael teaches her clients that now, more than ever, they need to know who is behind the needle. It’s important to learn both the practitioner’ s qualifications and the contents of the products that are being used. “It’s your face,” she points out. “It’ s very important to know what is being injected.” She uses only the safest products on the market, she says, and she mixes the products in front of her clients. She takes the time to educate them on how much is being injected, where it is being injected, and why.

Mr. Powers says that Michael never pushes a product and helps you look natural within your budget. “There’ s a new confidence she instills in you,” he says. “You feel you are looking the best you can. It’s worth every penny.”

Another longtime client, “Laurie,” says that she had been to other places for procedures but, once she found Michael, she has never gone anywhere else. She encourages anyone who wants to look and feel younger to “go for it.” She is happy with the natural results she was able to achieve (with no bruising!), the fact that she never has to wait in the office, and the caring and personal approach Michael takes with her clients. “It’s my happy place, even though it’s a place with needles,” she laughs.

Because of the pleasant experiences she has had at Studio 27, Laurie says she has referred many of her friends to Michael. She would refer her own mother, she quips, but she has never told her mom that she has had procedures done…as far as she can tell, her mother has never even noticed.

She offers Botox , fillers , medical-grade chemical peels , platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy , microneedling, sclerotherapy, HCG diets , and LipoLean.

No matter how old you are , you ’ re aging every day. It is never too early to begin anti-aging prevention , Michael says , and it ’ s never too late to slow or even reverse some of the visible effects of aging. She says she has seen an expansion in her clientele , in both age and gender. More men and women of a wider age group are wanting to look and feel better these days. Michael is the sole advanced injector. This helps keep her overhead low , so she can pass on the savings to her clients. She says she finds her work rewarding and loves that she has the flexibility to spend time with her clients , to get to know them. “ It ’ s about doing the right thing , making people feel better about themselves ,” she concludes.

Studio 27 is located at 2631 West Colorado Avenue, in Old Colorado City (719-329-0304). The Woodland Park location is at 300 West Lake Avenue (719-2911569). For more information or to book an appointment, go to studio27co.com or send a message to info@ studio27co.com. WE

Michael Renee Bradburry, RN

Enjoy Your Own Party!

Hiring Professional Caterers

By Leslie Byrne

Wedding, graduation, and anniversary season is here! Most likely, you’ll be in charge of a large group gathering sometime this season. So much goes into planning a successful event that we sometimes lose sight of the fact that a party is supposed to be fun—even for the host! You should be enjoying the celebration, not refilling the salad bowl. This problem has one simple solution: Hire a caterer!

If you’ve never known the relaxation that comes from handing off the food details to a professional, make

2019 the year you find out. Let’s take a look at a few trends in catering.

Catering for a wedding is all about providing guests with a fun and memorable eating experience. One current trend is hiring food trucks. You heard me—food trucks. Does the newlywed couple love tacos? Pizza? Greek food? No problem. If one food truck isn’t going to cut it, a party planner can arrange for multiple food trucks to provide guests with a wide variety of foods.

If food trucks don’t fit the happy couple’s style, caterers can always handle any size of traditional sitdown dinner or buffet. For something more personalized but not too far out of the box, many couples are hiring caterers to make and serve their favorite foods.

Buffets featuring Mexican food, Italian food, or even just macaroni and cheese with delicious toppings are popular options. Another trend is a late-night snack for guests who have been dancing for hours and need a little something to eat before heading home. Caterers can prepare street tacos, cookies and milk shooters, warm pretzels, donut holes, and more.

Although many weddings are less formal than in the past, casual does not mean sloppy! It’s important to work with a professional who can serve a casual menu that meets professional standards. An experienced caterer can share all the latest trends and help find the perfect menu for any style of wedding.

Anniversary parties should also reflect the happy couple. They may want a more traditional sit-down dinner in remembrance of their wedding many years earlier. Hiring a caterer will ensure a delicious, stressfree dinner.

Graduation parties are often open house style, where guests come and go. Food trucks that make food to order can be a great option for an open house. Does your graduate love a certain restaurant? Find out if they cater; many restaurants do.

Are you in charge of the company picnic or national sales meeting? Hiring a caterer for a corporate event is a smart solution for a busy administrative assistant. Catering companies can take the worry and stress out of a big company picnic or formal dinner.

There are some things to consider to make sure that your catering experience is a positive one. Don’t be shy about asking questions, requesting food samples, and taking ample time to read the contract. Of course, you

should always ask them to provide references!

Check that they are licensed to meet food safety standards. If they’re serving alcohol at your event, they’ll need a liquor license. Liquor liability insurance, to protect the venue, the caterer, and you, is also a must. Go through the liquor pricing and ask if they offer packages or can change to a cash bar after a certain time. Will their staff handle the money, or do you need to make other arrangements? If you need to provide the alcohol yourself, find out if they charge a separate fee to serve it.

Review menu options. They may have specialties or items you hadn’t considered yet. A good caterer will know the latest trends and what foods have worked at similar events. Ask if they can meet dietary restrictions. Don’t forget to try the food! You may find after tasting some menu items that you want to serve something else. Some caterers charge a small fee for tastings.

Find out exactly what is included in the caterer’ s price—you don’t want surprises in the bill. (You should also find out what your venue provides to make sure you ’re not paying for services twice.) What deposit is required? Many caterers ask for 20–50 percent up front and want to be booked at least six months in advance. They can figure out how much food you need when you give them an approximate head count.

You also don’t want surprises at the event. Ask what the catering staff will wear and whether gratuities are expected for the serving staff. Even if you have what you think is a basic or silly question—ask! A good catering experience depends on open communication.

Caterers want your event to be as wonderful as you do! Choose professional help to make your event a pleasure, for both you and your guests.

Sources for this article included: marthastewartweddings.com, and herecomestheguide.com. WE

A Day for All Mothers

Every Day is Mother’s Day

By Sharon Knierim

Mother’s Day has arrived, and it is once again time to stop what we ’ re doing and celebrate our mothers. Whether or not your mother is still living , it ’ s a very good exercise to reflect on what she has been and still remains and how she has shaped your own life. We all have a mother , and there are probably as

many different kinds of relationships between mother and child as there are mothers in this world.

Our mother is the first human we know. Even before our own birth, we have learned to recognize her voice. After nine or 10 months of feeding us and protecting us as best she can in her own body, she knows us better than anyone else probably will in our lifetimes.

There’s no denying that fatigue and discomfort set in as the baby inside grows and takes up more space toward the end of pregnancy. Finally, the big day arrives, and the baby is born! Pregnancy can be difficult, uncomfortable, and stressful (and labor is no picnic, either), but if you think the hard part of being a mother is over, you might be getting a little bit ahead of yourself.

From this point on, life becomes really interesting. From this point on, you will never be alone again. Although this may seem distressing to those of us who enjoy solitary time, it really is one of

life’s wonderful blessings. The companionship and love that grows between mother and child is enduring. With good luck and hard work, it can (and should) last an entire lifetime.

If you are a brand-new mother, don’t be discouraged by all the yucky diapers and the spitting up. Feeding time seems to take forever, and your little angel has what feels like a string of constant demands. Remember, you ’ll eventually grow accustomed to this new routine...at which time, your baby will change the routine entirely. Learn to be flexible.

Motherhood is something like a club. All mothers gossip about and compare their own children to all the other kids in the family

“I appreciate the opportunity to advertise in Women’s Edition. I have had a lot of positive response to my ads and the story George Scheaffer wrote about my store. The staff at Women’s Edition is professional, friendly, and caring.”

—Dwight Griggs, Owner

and the neighborhood. Sometimes, the competition can be quite remarkable. You wonder why your baby hasn’t started crawling when your sister’s baby has already crawled over half the county. Unless your baby’s development is drastically different from everyone else’ s, worrying about it is probably not worth your time. In the end, babies do everything at their own pace.

By the time a child becomes a toddler, we have become so engrossed in their little lives that they are always our first thought and remain number one in our plans, both large and small.

Technically, it’s our children who make us into mothers. On the flip side, however, we have to consider our own mothers, who greatly influence the kind of mothers we turn out to be. It can be hard to admit that we listened to what our mothers told us. After all, how could they know anything about being teenagers? A teenaged girl thinks her mother knows nothing about teen guys because Mom has been married to good old Dad for at least a century. Fashion has probably been a hot topic between mothers and daughters since the beginning of time. Teenage boys view their mothers a little differently. Instead of angst, they seem to be split in their opinion of Mom. Maybe that balances things out.

Although it is really startling, many of us seem to eventually turn into our mothers. We plagiarize their reasoning, their remarks, and their words of wisdom. How does this happen? When we are very young, we want desperately to be ourselves and to be special. Well, even though we might turn into our own mothers, we are still special.

Even more startling is the realization that our mothers were almost always right. I do not know if anyone has ever kept the score on this, but, over the years, mothers prove to be right a great percentage of the time. How do they do that? Their intentions are good. They care for us and want us to be able to make good, strong decisions. This can be truly annoying. Perhaps someday in the future, a generation will understand this early enough in life to benefit from it before they become parents themselves.

I wish you a happy Mother’s Day and hope that you will take some time to honor the woman who gave you life and set you on the road to adulthood. If you are a mother, take time to honor each of your children, and let them know how very special they are to you. Happy Mother’s Day to all! WE

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Mommy Makeovers Celebrate Yourself

By Kylie Gumpert

In May, we take time to celebrate all the things that mothers do. We let moms know just how much they mean to us…how beautiful and strong they are. We thank them for the things they do every day that make their families ’ lives better. We recognize the sacrifices they have made and continue to make. What often goes unrecognized is the toll that childbirth takes on their bodies. For some mothers , electing for certain cosmetic procedures can help them feel rejuvenated and restore their body confidence to its pre-childbirth state.

This series of surgeries, sometimes referred to as a “mommy makeover,” can help a mom when sagging skin causes aesthetic issues as well as physical comfort issues. Every makeover varies, depending on a woman’s situation and desires, but a mommy makeover may include procedures like breast augmentation or lift, buttock augmentation, tummy tuck, liposuction, and even vaginal rejuvenation.

It sounds like a lot of surgery to have done at once, but there are advantages to a single surgical session. Childbirth often impacts several areas of a woman’s body. Multiple custom surgeries that meet all of a woman’ s needs at once means that several areas of the body are addressed at the same time. While this leads to a longer recovery time, it also leads to a single recovery time—once healed, Mom can jump right back into work and life, feeling as confident as she deserves to feel. There may also be a cost savings to undergoing multiple procedures in a single surgical session.

Today, many women are integrating non-surgical procedures into their mommy makeovers, as well. These can include non-surgical fat reduction, injectables to tighten or plump skin, and skin resurfacing to rejuvenate the skin’s youthfulness and glow. These types of procedures can be performed on many different areas of the body.

A mommy makeover, like any series of surgical procedures, is no small undertaking. The most important thing to keep in mind if you are thinking about a mommy makeover is making sure that it’s what you want for yourself. No woman should undergo surgery because she feels pressured to do so by someone else. On the flip side, a woman who wants to undergo surgery shouldn’t just rule it out because she doesn’t feel like her decision is being supported by family and friends. People’s opinions on modifying our bodies can vary widely. When it comes to making changes to your body, the opinion that truly matters is your own.

Most women who have these procedures done are in their 30s or 40s, when they are finished having children. Surgeons recommend waiting to get a mommy makeover until you know you are done having kids, as a subsequent pregnancy will undo some of the work done during the surgery. You must wait at least six months after having a child to undergo these procedures. If you feel that you want some type of rejuvenation but aren’t sure whether

or not you’re going to have more children, non-surgical procedures are the better choice.

Let’s get into some of the specifics for common mommy makeover surgeries.

A breast augmentation is used to increase the size , fullness , and balance of the breasts. There are several types of implants today , including saline , structured saline , and silicone. Implants also come in different shapes and structures. Your surgeon can help guide you toward the implant that will give you the look that you desire. Implants are placed through an incision near the breast. The location of the incision also varies , depending on your breast situation , the type of implant you ’ re getting , and your concerns about scarring. Possible locations include around the areola , underneath the breast , or in the armpit.

A breast lift can be done by itself or in combination with a breast augmentation or reduction. This procedure helps place the breasts in a more youthful position after sagging occurs. As with breast augmentation, the location of the incision can vary.

A buttock lift can involve an incision and skin and tissue removal from either the bottom of the waistline or where the buttocks meet the upper thighs. A buttock augmentation can be done with implants or by transferring fat that is harvested through liposuction from another area of your body. There are several different types of incisions that can be made to insert a silicone implant made specifically for the buttock area. These incisions can be made toward the top of the buttocks, where they meet the thighs, or in the gluteal fold (to hide any scarring).

A tummy tuck (technically known as an abdominoplasty) removes excess fat and skin in the abdominal area and helps restore muscles that were weakened during pregnancy and childbirth. An incision will be made horizontally along the pubic hairline; a separate incision may be necessary around the belly

button. The surgeon will pull the abdominal skin down, trim the excess, and make a new opening for the belly button before suturing everything back together.

Liposuction can be performed on many different parts of the body, including the thighs, hips, upper arms, calves, ankles, and inner knee. It is meant for problem areas where diet and exercise don’t seem to have any effect on fat deposits. The surgeon makes a small incision and inserts a small tube with a surgical vacuum. The tube is moved back and forth, which loosens the fat. The dislodged fat is then suctioned out of the body by the vacuum.

Vaginal rejuvenation can involve one or several different types of procedures that can help increase comfort, confidence, and even function when childbirth changes the way a woman’ s vaginal area looks and feels. A labiaplasty reduces the length of the inner, hairless labia minora, which can become elongated and protrude after childbirth, leading to chafing, pain, and general discomfort. Vaginoplasty is a surgical procedure to correct vaginal laxity, a fairly common result of childbirth. Women with more moderate cases of vaginal laxity may choose a non-surgical procedure instead—heating the vaginal tissues with laser energy can also result in vaginal tightening.

Patients who undergo the multiple procedures involved in a mommy makeover should expect around two weeks of intensive recovery time, during which they will need to take leave from work. Weight-lifting limits are often in place for four additional weeks after surgery (generally, no lifting anything heavier than 10 pounds).

There will also be a lot of swelling, especially if you’ve had a breast augmentation or a tummy tuck. This is normal! Don’t be alarmed if, at first, your breasts are much larger than you were

expecting. It usually takes anywhere from six months to a full year for swelling from these surgeries to fully subside.

Finding a surgeon you trust is paramount to the success of your mommy makeover. It’s important to ensure that you’ re working with a board-certified surgeon. Check for board certification in a field related to the procedures you want (for example, the American Board of Plastic Surgery). Many qualified surgeons are also fellows in the American College of Surgeons (FACS).

Finding a board-certified surgeon isn’t enough. You also need to make sure your surgeon has relevant experience doing the procedures you want to have done. This track record should include before and after photos as well as patient testimonials.

Once you’ve found some experienced, board-certified surgeons…your search still isn’t over! Like artists, surgeons have their own styles, so even the most qualified surgeon may not be a good fit for you if your visions don’t match. You will want to meet with several different surgeons as well as other women who have had a mommy makeover. Consult with your own physician, as well as family members and friends, to get recommendations.

Once you’ve found a surgeon that you like and trust, you also want to confirm the accreditation of the facility in which your surgery will be performed. This is important for your overall health and safety during surgery. Look for AAAASF, AAAHC, or JCAHO certification.

If you think a mommy makeover is right for you, start looking for surgeons in your area! You might just be headed on the path toward a more confident you.

Sources for this article included: plasticsurgery.org, americanboardcosmeticsurgery.com, and abfprs.org. WE

Douglas H. Barton, MBA, CLU, ChFC, AIF®

Hilary M. Dobrich

Bathroom Bliss

High-Tech Remodels Make a Splash

By Robyn V. Powell

Most of us dream of indulging in the kind of pampering found at luxurious spas. Imagine getting that wonderful sense of well-being without leaving your home. A growing number of people no longer see the bathroom as simply a utilitarian room—homeowners everywhere are transforming their bathrooms into stylish personal sanctuaries. New technologies such as smart showers and voice-activated features for lighting and temperature control are just a few of the amenities showing up in 2019 bath -

rooms. If a bathroom remodel is on your wish list, check out this year ’s trends and discover how form and function are coming together in exciting new ways.

Apart from personal enjoyment, one of the best reasons to remodel your bathroom is the added resale value it offers to your home. Bathrooms now rival kitchens as the most important room in the house, and realtors say that bathrooms can make or break a sale. Moreover, homes with remodeled bathrooms sell faster. According to the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI), a bathroom remodel is likely to recoup 50 percent of the project cost.

With energy savings as one of a home’s biggest selling points, rising utility bills make energy efficiency a priority for every homeowner. When planning your remodel, consider items that maximize efficiency. Save money and resources by investing in a tankless water

heater and by tapping into eco-friendly but stylish fixtures such as LED lighting and low-flow toilets and faucets.

The shift to warmer shades of gold and brass is a welcome change from the cooler feel of the sleek, polished chrome that was popular in recent years. These lovely, soft-toned fixtures add just the right dimension and luxury to your space. Available in matte, satin, and spun gold finishes, warm metal plumbing fixtures can be matched to accent pieces such as mirrors, light fixtures, and hardware. As an added bonus, a gold finish shows fewer fingerprints and water spots than chrome.

This year, bolder, deeper color is being combined with lots of natural wood. The industrial trend remains strong. Create the vibe by choosing black for light fixtures, plumbing fixtures, mirrors, and vanities, and then setting them against a backdrop of gleaming white tile. Subway tile remains popular, though the sizes and shapes are ›››

Eddie McNulty

Confidence! Smile

Complete & Gentle Care for the Entire Family!

✦ Lifetime Whitening Program

✦ Cosmetic Dentistry

✦ Dentures

✦ Laser Dentistry— procedures without shots

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✦ CEREC Crowns— crowns completed in one visit

✦ DNA Testing—for better oral & total health

✦ VELscope— early cancer detection (complimentary)

✦ Oral Surgery (wisdom teeth)

✦ Dental Implants – For Missing Teeth & Dentures

✦ Laser Periodontal Therapy

Now There is a Faster, Safer & More Comfortable Way to Have Straight Teeth & a Beautiful Smile… Fastbraces® for Colorado Springs Adults & Teens! Fastbraces® typically straighten teeth between 3 months to one year. Lifetime satisfaction commitment. Fastbraces® offices worldwide.

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I love restoring smiles and oral health. I believe healthy teeth and gums are critical for the overall health of an individual. I want our patients to be healthy and enjoy a full life. I consider it a privilege to help my patients be restored to dental health.” —Donald E. Couchman, DDS

Couchman Center for Complete Dentistry®

“The genuine care I receive at Associates in Women’s Care is unlike any other OBGYN office I have been to. They treat me as a person, not just a patient. The office environment is professional, comfortable and I can’t say enough about how wonderful all the staff is. When I was pregnant it eased my anxiety knowing that their practice was connected to the hospital, so if I ever needed anything they were right next door.” —Carissa

Brent Shelton, MD Andrea Lerch, MD

Megan Renehan, MD Christine Ryan, MD Sandra Winn, NP

changing to linear and skinnier tiles.

For the ultimate spa-like experience, install a spacious shower equipped with rain shower heads and a seamless glass enclosure. Take luxury to the next level with high-tech features like digital temperature settings to keep shower water consistent and mood lighting that can be programmed with different colors and patterns. If space allows, install a sleek and stylish standalone soaker tub.

Furniture-style and floating vanities are forecast to be very popular in 2019 and beyond. Instead of sitting on the ground, floating vanities hang on the wall, usually about 12 inches off the floor, visually opening up the space and creating a seamless, airy feeling. The countertop of choice is engineered stone, which brings the look of natural stone without the maintenance. Non-porous quartz won’t scratch or crack and resists mold and mildew. Concrete is a customizable surface that can be cast in almost any shape or color. Complete your vanity with asymmetrical or geometric mirrors reflecting their smarts with anti-fog and touch-control technology.

Nothing compares to the luxury and comfort of stepping onto a heated floor. Say goodbye to slippers and socks! To begin each day on the right foot, transform that cold tile floor into a warm and soothing surface. Under-floor heating can be used with a variety of flooring options such as wood, tile, and concrete.

A powder room with a petite footprint offers the perfect opportunity to splurge on more luxurious materials. Add drama with bold wallpaper or a glass or hand-painted vessel sink paired with a unique faucet.

Most kids want a cheerful place to wake up every morning. For the kids’ bathroom, choose a vibrant color scheme or a fun motif. Selecting a design and style that kids love will make the time spent there more fun, even if they’d rather be playing than taking a bath!

As with any renovation project, sound planning is required. Look for contractors who have experience with similar projects. If your plan involves removing walls, work with an architect. Designers are always on the lookout for new trends and innovations and are excellent resources to help pull your project together. A bathroom remodel is a major investment. Hire the right team and enjoy the lush comfort of a spa-inspired retreat in the comfort of your own home every single day!

Sources for this article included: nari.org, consumerreports.org, and houzz.com.

A Few Words From One of Our Advertisers:

“We are very pleased with the attention Anita and Shannon have given us. We initially signed on with Women’s Edition to see how this compared with some other local advertising we were doing. We have loved the response and we certainly have seen a direct increase in client interaction and visits. The art department has gone out of their way to help us achieve our best pictorial ads. No hesitation, we love it!”

—Drs. Marsala and Adams and Certified Aesthetician Bozena CordovA

Dr. Marsala

College Pharmacy

One-Stop Shopping for Personalized Wellness

By William J. Dagendesh

We all want to live longer, healthier lives. Luckily for those of us in the Colorado Springs area, College Pharmacy is here to help us achieve our own personal wellness goals. The caring and experienced practitioners at College Pharmacy develop and provide quality formulations and customer service to healthcare practitioners and their patients. They collaborate with patients and practitioners to provide innovative

solutions for health and wellness success, including pharmaceutical-grade nutritional supplements.

According to the chief executive officer and pharmacy manager, Jerry Gillick, RPh, custom compounding is what sets College Pharmacy apart from other pharmacies. Custom compounding is when drugs are prepared from pure, pharmaceutical-grade raw materials according to a doctor’ s prescription and based on a particular patient’s needs. In other words, your doctor and your pharmacist will create a medication that is customized just for you! “About 30 to 40 million prescriptions are compounded each year,” Jerry says. College Pharmacy’s compounding expertise includes biologically identical hormone and thyroid formulations, environmental medicine, and chelation therapy. Custom medications for age management and aesthetic medicine, pain management, discontinued medications, and veterinary compounding are also offered.

Experienced compounding pharmaceutical and technical teams consult with healthcare practitioners to choose the right drug and dosage strength. To determine what supplements are best for patients, College Pharmacy conducts an OligoScan mineral test to measure 20 minerals and 14 heavy metals present in the body. It is a painless procedure during which a handheld spectrophotometry device scans the hand to determine mineral deficiencies and toxic metal levels that could lead to a medical condition.

For example, too much mercury in the body can lead to memory problems, muscle weakness, numbness in the hands and feet, and vision issues. In this particular case, dandelion and selenium are good for detoxifying the liver of mercury. “We all have heavy metals in our bodies, most of which are produced by diet and the environment,” Jerry explains. The OligoScan offers corrective information, which helps the healthcare team take the right steps for the patient’s best health. “We need to maintain a balance of those minerals, and College Pharmacy works with integrated physicians to help treat these problems.” Jerry notes that Vitamin C is an essential nutrient— it helps repair tissue and enhances immune system function. “The ‘60 Minutes’ news program aired a segment about doctors who were ready to pull the plug on a patient who had contracted the H1N1 virus (swine flu),” Jerry recalls. “Luckily, his sons had learned about

Vitamin C infusions, which saved the patient.” Deb Schaller, RPh, is the supervisor of College Pharmacy’s non-sterile department, and she knows the benefits of using College Pharmacy’s products firsthand. “I have done hormone replacement and have taken supplements which I would not have done had I worked someplace else,” Deb notes. Vanessa Vangen, the marketing coordinator, adds, “I take supplements and have noticed a positive change in my health and performance.”

In operation since 1974, College Pharmacy might be Colorado Springs’ best-kept secret, Jerry says. “Some people don’t know we exist. They visit the doctor and might ask for a certain drug the doctor isn’t aware of. That’s where we can help. Because of this, we see thousands and thousands of patients each year.”

Of course, much of College Pharmacy’s success has to do with the employees. From the moment shoppers enter the facility, they are greeted by skilled professionals whose caring and cheerful attitude make for a client-friendly atmosphere. Interacting with patients is the most rewarding aspect of working in the pharmacy, Deb says. “I enjoy problem-solving and interacting with patients.” She joined the team in 2003 and loves the time she can dedicate to patients. “You can spend a lot of time with them, instead of just a couple of minutes, as in other pharmacies.”

Vanessa, who has been with College Pharmacy for nearly two years, adds, “I like planning for conferences. Learning about the pharmacy and all it has to offer is rewarding.” Vanessa’s husband is stationed at Fort Carson, and Vanessa appreciates how much College Pharmacy cares about the military community. “Service members are always welcome to come and learn more about us,” she says.

College Pharmacy ships compounded preparations to 45 states and several countries, including Dubai, Egypt, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.

Despite offering a one-stop shopping experience, College Pharmacy encourages customers to first visit their physicians before looking into all that College Pharmacy has to offer. “Your doctor knows your medical background and what drugs are best for you,” Jerry says.

Located at 3505 Austin Buffs Parkway, Suite 101, College Pharmacy is open from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday–Friday. Call 719-262-0022, visit collegepharmacy.com, or send a message to customerservice@collegepharmacy.com.

l-r: Deb Schaller, R.Ph., Jerry Gillick, R.Ph., and Vanessa Vangen

Spa Vacation Getaways

My Top 7 Choices

By Jackie Williams

Are you ready for a real vacation? One of relaxation, pampering, and much-needed “me time”? I have found seven spectacular spa destinations in the United States for you to choose from. Read on as you sit back and imagine cucumber slices being placed over your eyes while gentle music plays in the background and your cares melt away….

The Spa at Sea Island. Located on the Atlantic coast of Georgia , conveniently between the Jacksonville and Savannah International airports , this Forbes five-star spa and fitness facility boasts an amazing 65 , 000 square feet. Relax before your treatment in the eucalyptus-infused steam room , mineral pool , and hydrotherapy pool , and you will be like putty in your therapist ’ s hands. The fitness center hosts over 50 group classes , or you can be active outside. With five miles of private beach , three champion golf courses , and award-winning accommodations , staying at Sea Island is a fantastic all-around vacation ; when you throw the spa into it—well , it will be your best holiday yet!

The Spa at the Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee . Another gem in Georgia , the spa at the RitzCarlton Reynolds , Lake Oconee , is easy to get to from Atlanta. It boasts over 27 , 000 square feet and comes complete with indoor pool , plunge pools , saunas , and steam rooms.

Located right on the lake , the environment truly makes you slow down. Book a club room during your stay to take advantage of the great amenities in the club lounge , and then have the concierge book your first spa treatment: the Georgian , complete with exfoliation , red clay mask , Vichy shower , and massage. You won ’ t want to leave.

The Spa at Omni Grove Park Inn. This Omni hotel property in Asheville , North Carolina , is so popular for its spa that it has a separate “ Spa Vacations ” tab on its website. The hardest choice you will make is from their menu of wonderful body treatments , like the Mountain Honey Wrap or a full sensory experience called Fire , Rock , Water , and Light. With scenic views of the Blue Mountains and 43 , 000 square feet of subterranean spa , the spa at Omni Grove Park Inn is in high demand. Ensure access by booking a club room while staying at the resort and enjoy the spa amenities during your stay.

Kohler Waters Spa at American Club Resort. Renew and recharge at Destination Kohler in Wisconsin. Similar to Central Park in New York City , the Village of Kohler is a huge green space with parks , biking and hiking trails , gardens , golf courses , and more. Enjoy the beautiful surroundings during your stay with your choice of accommodations. The

Kohler Waters Spa is one of only 64 fivestar spas in the world , and , of course , you will need to take advantage of their hydrotherapy treatments. Book the Acoustic Bath with massage and Thermal Hydro Body Wrap and then go back to your room for the best sleep of your life. Afterwards , you will be remodeling your bathroom at home with these showers!

Ranch Creek Spa at Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa. This is one of my own personal favorites. Perfect during the winter , after an active day of crosscountry skiing or snowboarding , indulge in an afternoon at the Ranch Creek Spa in Tabernash , Colorado. It all starts with a steam shower and aromatherapy room while you await your Signature Massage. Afterwards , sit outside in the fresh mountain air , wrapped in your fluffy robe and sipping a cup of tea , taking in the beautiful and peaceful view.

Miraval Resorts. The main property is in Arizona , but there is also a location in Austin and one opening soon in the Berkshires (in Massachusetts). If you are looking for an all-inclusive spa vacation , Miraval does it right. All packages include accommodations , meals , snacks , wellness activities , lectures , and fitness classes. Different amounts of resort credit goes to your spa treatments. These are great facilities for total wellness and girls ’ getaways.

Glen Ivy Hot Springs. This hidden gem in Corona , California , isn ’ t so hidden anymore. Come for the day to unwind alone or with friends , nosh on healthy food , join in the fitness classes , take advantage of therapeutic treatments , and relax among Glen Ivy ’ s 19 pools , Club Mud , and the Grotto. You will love it!

The hard part is deciding where to go. Have your travel agent keep you informed of airfare deals. Most of these spas are affiliated with or in a resort—you can stay for an entire vacation or choose to go to the spa just for the day. Either way , I would recommend booking at least a month ahead. Whether you ’ re looking for simple relaxation or total body wellness , one of these spa vacation destinations will definitely soothe your soul.

Sources for this article included: glenivy.com , omnihotels.com , and americanclubresort.com.

Summer Body To-Do List

Hair Treatments

, Scrubs, Facials, Hair

Removal, and More!

By Loretta McCollum

Summer is on its way! We’re talking bikinis, backyards, bare toes, shorts, and sandals. Summer officially begins in June, but most of us kick off the season on Memorial Day weekend, the first unofficial summer holiday. Will your body be ready?

After the icy grip of winter, we ’ve been slowly extricating ourselves from our frosty cocoons, rediscovering our unpainted toenails, our hairy legs, and our dull, lifeless tresses. We need a little sprucing up! Let’s take our

bodies from “not venturing past my own deck” to “lounging on a beach, sipping a pink umbrella cocktail.”

Working from the top down, we begin with lackluster locks. As with many things, what’s old is new again in hairstyles. The 1970s layered shag is trending, as is the ’90s blunt bob. The long, straight hair of the late 1960s is back, along with thick, blunt bangs.

Summer is the perfect time to update your color and add highlights. Some of the hottest new colors even sound like summer: white sand or strawberry lemonade for blondes. Brunettes can select white sand highlights or shiny blues and purples. Balayage provides a contemporary look with color transitioning from light to dark, creating natural-looking highlights.

Well-shaped brows enhance any face. Your salon may have an aesthetician specializing in brow shaping and tinting. One option for brow shaping is brow waxing— this is one of the fastest ways to get a great brow that lasts for weeks.

Other brow choices include threading and electrolysis. Eyebrow threading is an ancient technique that has recently regained popularity. It’s a precise procedure whereby a cotton strand is twisted around multiple hairs at the same time, after which the hair is lifted from the follicles. It’s relatively painless, and the results last up to six weeks. The more the process is repeated, the sparser the regrowth will be.

Electrolysis isn’t new, either, but it’s still popular. An aesthetician sends an electric current into the hair follicle with a small probe, preventing regrowth. Multiple procedures are needed to remove all unwanted hair, but results are permanent. After you have the perfect brow shape, it’s time for tinting. Dark-haired ladies should try going lighter, and vice versa for fair-haired gals.

A facial will slough off that dull, winter skin, revealing a fresher, brighter complexion. There’s a facial for everyone! During an anti-aging facial, a special tool sands away the outer layer of skin, reducing the appearance of lines, wrinkles, and sun damage. That’s followed with collagen or vitamin-infused serums for a smooth complexion. A HydraFacial uses a vacuum-like device to suck stuff like blackheads out of your skin. Who wouldn’t love that? You can ’t go wrong with a classic facial to clean, exfoliate, and moisturize. A head and neck massage is often included for a relaxing experience.

Now, it’s time to do the whole body. There are body

wraps and scrubs to exfoliate, moisturize, detox, and even slim down. Results of slimming wraps are temporary, but they can work wonders just before a summer wedding. For a really fresh start to summer, try a detox body wrap to stimulate circulation and eliminate the toxins that accumulated in your system over the winter.

Last but not least, attend to your lovely legs and tantalizing toes. If your post-winter limbs look like you could shave them and donate the hair to Locks of Love, you ’ re not alone. As with brows, waxing and electrolysis are great hair removal choices. Those with dark hair might consider laser hair removal, which destroys the hair bulb at the root and is permanent. Several treatments are needed, a few weeks apart, but the results are worth it.

Like most everything post-winter, we want to add color to our dingy digits. Of course, a pedicure must come first to trim the nails and soften the cuticles. Doesn’t a margarita pedicure sound delightfully seasonal? The feet are scrubbed with a lime salt scrub, followed by lime oil moisturizer. All that’s left is to choose a pretty summer nail color.

Artificial nails, while lovely to behold, are hard on your natural nails, so it’s best to reserve them for special occasions. When you do go the artificial route, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) suggests that you choose soak-off gel nails instead of acrylic because they’re a little more flexible. To protect your hands from UV rays, choose a salon that uses an LED light instead of a UV light to cure gel nails. Whether you’re going with artificial nails or just a manicure, the AAD advises against trimming cuticles—it leaves you open to infection.

Congrats! Your body is now ready to enjoy all that awaits this summer. Have a few umbrella cocktails for me!

Sources for this article included: cosmopolitan.com, forbes. com, webmd.com, and aad.org. WE

2019 Student Catwalk

Tracey’s Boutique

Combining Fashion and Compassion

By Adrienne West

Life’s challenges can encourage someone to take a new path. This is definitely the case for Tracey Fogle, owner of Tracey’s Boutique. While Tracey’s mother was recovering from breast cancer treatment, Tracey realized there was a need in the local area for more services and mastectomy products for those facing breast cancer.

Armed with a love of fashion and a strong compassion for women who struggled with breast cancer, Tracey opened her boutique three years ago. The boutique is an expansion of her long-standing Merle Norman franchise and is located in Chapel Hills Mall. “I like fashion and making women feel good,” Tracey explains. “It just kind of seemed like a nice progression.”

For women whose chemotherapy treatments have cost them their hair, Tracey offers a large variety of beautiful head scarves and wigs—both practical and fun. The wigs are designed to look very natural, but Tracey notes that many women choose a brightly colored wig that is completely different from their own hair. “The short bob; the long red hair,” Tracey says. “I like to encourage women to buy something that is out of their comfort zone.” This change can help to bring out their sassy side during a difficult time.

The boutique also offers prostheses, ready-made breast forms, and post-surgical clothing, as well as a line of bras. Tracey stocks seasonal clothing, including shirts, swimsuits, and activewear that fit prostheses, from the Amoena and American Breast Care product lines. Tracey and the other three employees are happy to help each client find the perfect wig, clothing item, or skin care product to meet her unique needs.

Tracey is a certified mastectomy fitter. To achieve this designation, Tracey completed over 500 hours of specialized training. She is one of only a few mastectomy fitters in the area, so she regularly volunteers to help with fittings at the Dorcy Cancer Center, located in the St. Mary-Corwin Medical Center, in Pueblo.

At Tracey’s Boutique, women who need help fitting a prosthesis, a bra, or clothing come to the store for an appointment. She recommends that clients plan on spending an hour at the boutique to complete insurance paperwork and to undergo the fittings. Tracey spends time with each client, discussing the client’s history and medical journey. She then proceeds with the fittings, helping clients choose their new items in a luxurious, private fitting room. If a client needs a prosthesis but doesn’t have one yet, Tracey offers a personalized scan to create a custom prosthesis. She finishes each appointment with a customized makeup session in the Merle Norman portion of the store.

Tracey loves this part of her job. “When women come in, they say they don’t feel feminine anymore…they

don’t feel pretty,” she says. “When they leave, they are smiling. They feel good. I see happy tears a lot.” Tracey’s mother, Nancy, is doing very well and currently serves as the spokesperson and model for the boutique. “She helps me figure out what looks and feels good,” Tracey shares.

Client JoAnn Dobson loved her experience at Tracey’s Boutique. “I was very impressed with Tracey,” she writes in her Google review. “She was VERY helpful and knowledgeable. She made me feel very comfortable. I have been to another store, and there was no comparison in the two. I highly recommend this store.

”

While helping clients, Tracey realized there was another important need for this population, and she was inspired to create a solution. During fittings, many women shared with Tracey that they could not afford to pay the insurance co-payments to receive the prosthesis and bras that they needed. Tracey created The Rosa Fund, named in honor of a beloved client, to help women in this situation. At the boutique, and at trade shows, she sells pink t-shirts with an inspirational quote from Audrey Hepburn printed on them. The quote reads, in part, “I believe in being strong, when everything is going wrong.” The retail cost of these shirts is $20, and all profits go to helping clients who cannot afford their insurance co-payments or who don’t have insurance.

Tracey also participates in Colorado Springs’ annual Cowgirls and Cocktails event, which is usually held in the summer. Cowgirls and Cocktails is a Colorado Springs volunteer committee and grassroots effort that raises funds to help those facing breast cancer. This organization uses the collected funds to provide people in the community with transportation, meals, wigs, camisoles not covered by insurance, mammograms, and much more. This organization is under the umbrella of the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo Foundation.

Tracey’s Boutique is located inside the Merle Norman store at the Chapel Hills Mall, at 1710 Briargate Boulevard. To schedule an appointment, call 719-599-0282 or 720-386-4333. Visit mastectomyitems. com to learn more about the services and products that Tracey offers.

Tracey Fogle, owner

Jill Isbell, CFP Becky Miller, AAMS Yenni Chesire, FPQP

Creative Financial Services, Inc.

Greetings to all of you! I have a question for you ; do you manage your money or does your money manage you? Are you smirking or smiling? Often we fail to reach our financial goals because we allow our impulses and the “ tyranny of the urgent ” to dictate our futures. Perhaps you need a guide to teach you the tools for managing your personal finances. Without this step , it is very difficult to then go on to begin investing for your financial future.

Do you have questions? Please give us a call at Creative Financial Services , 719-4714774. We are here to Earn Your Trust and Grow Your Wealth!

Healthy Image Colorado

Healthy Image Colorado is committed to helping you look and feel better. We have searched far and wide to provide the most effective treatments for YOU. We offer a variety of services from body wraps and microcurrent facials to pain treatment and prevention. We are excited to announce that we have just received the Cryoskin 3.0 direct from France and are offering amazing DEALS. Cyroskin 3.0 is a cutting edge machine that offers two different treatments. Cryoslimming freezes and kills your fat cells, permanently eliminating them from your body. No down time. Cryotoning stimulates the production of collagen and tightening of muscles to diminish the appearance of cellulite, loose skin, fine lines, and wrinkles. Your experience matters to us! Call 719-433-4844 or visit www.healthyimagecolorado.com.

Floor Craft LLC

1216 W. Colorado Ave. Colorado Springs, CO 80904

www.create-wealth.com

email: pauli@create-wealth.com

email: jill@create-wealth.com

email: becky@create-wealth.com email: yenni@create-wealth.com Pauli Hubbard, CFP

Floor Craft, a 3rd generation, family-owned business, is Colorado Springs’ oldest floor covering store. We just celebrated our 75th Anniversary! If you are thinking about upgrading your flooring, wall tile, or backsplash, come in and view our large showroom for ideas and inspiration! Our experienced sales staff can assist you in making the right choices to fit your lifestyle and budget. We also provide samples to take home to match your existing decor, and will provide Free Estimates!

Check us out and experience the unique difference at Floor Craft! Call for more information 719-633-7724 and visit our website at www.FloorCraft.us.

All That Glitters

At All That Glitters , we have been serving the area with award winning designers and the top craftsmen in the state for over three decades. Our commitment to quality and meticulous attention to detail gives you the confidence of working with jewelers who care about your custom project , repair , or that perfect gift.

Give her a gift she wants, a gift she will always remember. Visit our store and meet the jewelers who have the finest reputation for putting art into your jewelry.

We are located under Jake and Telly ’ s deck in the historic Old Colorado City at 2616 West Colorado Ave. #23.

Lifetime Dental

Are you looking for a dental office where you feel like a person instead of a number? Are you looking for a dental office where the work is done right the first time? Have you had less-than-satisfactory dental work done elsewhere, and you are not sure where to go next to have your past dental work fixed? Lifetime Dental is your answer!

Dr. David Blackley and his staff are dedicated to providing gentle yet quality dental care in a relaxed , personal atmosphere. They believe your dentistry is a reflection of their abilities , and they are proud to provide you with the best in dental care from your first consultation.

Dr. David Blackley has been providing quality dental care in Colorado since 1984. He promotes continuing education for himself and his staff. He is a visiting faculty member at the prestigious Spear Institute at the Scottsdale Center for Dentistry. He was also voted one of the “Top Dentists” in Colorado Springs by his colleagues!

From your first appointment, you will experience the difference in Lifetime Dental’ s personal mission to educate you on the importance of a healthy mouth and how best to achieve yours! Quality dental care can be affordable.

Ask about the New Dental Care Savings Package for anyone who does not have dental insurance.

Give Lifetime Dental a call today at 719-268-9777. You may also visit the website at www.LifetimeDentalColorado.com to learn more about the practice, staff, and services.

Trust the Universe Its Order is Divine

“All is truly well.”—Abraham/Hicks

Do we believe this? When life is throwing one curveball after another, are we calm and serene because we know that all is truly well? If I am honest with myself, I would say that I know this— most of the time. Once in a while, I find myself rushing through the day, hoping that I will have a moment or two just to “be.”

“I trust in the ebb and flow of the Universe. I trust that life is bigger than what I can see. I trust that there is a Divine Order beyond my control. And I trust that no matter what happens, I will be all right.”—Oprah

Winfrey

Having faith in Divine Order helps me through tough times. If I look back on my life, I know that everything that has happened to me has happened for a reason.

Back in the day, when I faced a challenge, I found myself turning to drama. I don’t really know why. All I know is that it seemed to ramp everything up—my blood pressure increased, my voice got higher, I talked too fast, I moved too fast. I was, a lot of the time, on the verge of hysteria. Boy, was that NOT fun.

“All the world’s a stage, and most of us are desperately unrehearsed.”—Sean O’Casey

By Janet Van deWalle

Utilizing the affirmation “all is truly well” calms me, reminds me, and centers me. I have gotten to know myself better. I can feel it now when I’m heading down the path of drama. I have learned that my best approach is to step away from whatever situation has caused my stress to increase. I exit the room and I find a quiet place and re-center myself. I know that the Universe always has my back.

“Let the world unfold without always attempting to figure it all out. Let relationships just be, since everything is going to stretch out in Divine Order. Don’t try so hard to make something work—simply allow. Don’t always toil at trying to understand your mate, your children, your parents, your boss, or anyone else, because the Tao is working at all times.”—Wayne Dyer

I believe this all comes down to letting go and realizing that I can ’t control everything and everybody. As a business owner, I was a control freak. It was exhausting! By truly knowing that everything is in Divine Order, I am calmer and more centered.

“Invite Divine Order into your life today and a more serene tomorrow will unfold.” Sarah Ban Breathnach

Welcome, Divine Order.

Curiosity, Learning, and Adventure My Inheritance from Mom

If living a long time necessarily engenders wisdom, then my mother was extremely wise. Mom was born in 1907 and died in 2011, just a few months shy of her 104th birthday. She lived through both World Wars, Korea, Vietnam, the World Trade Center destruction, and a good portion of the fracas in the Middle East. In her lifetime, she saw the popularization of automobiles, televisions, cell phones, and computers. Over the years, she worked in a bank, did medical transcription in a hospital, typed notes for a doctor studying the aging, and was secretary to a politician (she went to the Chicago Convention). She lived in eight states, moving her family several times. She was married in her 30s and widowed in her 50s. She experienced a lot over her lifetime.

Mom taught us that becoming responsible adults didn’t necessarily mean we had to “ grow up. ” She always maintained a childlike curiosity and sense of adventure. She was interested in people and events, and she never stopped learning. Sometimes, she would hesitate before agreeing to some adventure. On her 100th birthday, she was invited on a road trip to visit friends in a distant state. “I’m too old to take a trip that far,” she demurred. “I’d be too much of a burden.” Only a few days later, she asked if she could change her mind. “I decided I don’t want to be a rusty gate and never do anything,” she stated. Her travels took her to the Holy Land and Egypt, to parts of Canada, and across the United States.

By Marge Shoemaker, BS, MS

I was fortunate to be asked to travel with her on some of those trips. She and two of her sisters (they were in their 70s and 80s at the time) planned to drive to New England to see the fall colors and visit a few nieces and nephews along the way. They asked me to go along. (I may have hinted that I’d help with the driving.) I had inherited Mom’s sense of adventure and love of learning, so I didn’t hesitate.

That trip took us to London and Paris in Ontario, Niagara Falls, Lake Placid, Lake Champlain, Stowe in Vermont, and through New York to northeastern Maine. We had lunch with relatives at the Trapp Family Lodge in Vermont and stayed with cousins in Maine who took us to see Land’s End, the Bay of Fundy, and the Roosevelt family’s cottage. On the drive home, we visited cousins in New Hampshire and other family in Columbus, Ohio. We visited Lincoln’s cabin in Illinois and toured Tom Sawyer’s neighborhood in Hannibal, Missouri.

Friends ask why I still drive to visit the kids in Arizona. The answer is that I don’t want to be a rusty gate! Thanks, Mom, for sharing your senses of adventure and curiosity and love of learning. Happy Mother’s Day!

Editor ’ s Note: Marge has three children , two grandchildren , and numerous nieces and nephews. She holds advanced degrees in education. Her life ’ s mission is to teach everyone that kids are people , too.

Aladdin’s Rug Gallery

Masterpieces for Your Floor

By Cheryl Lassota

A well-crafted, vibrant rug can add beauty and tranquility to any living space. Whether saturated in bold color or more subtle in design, a top-quality rug can be a focal point for decorating or the perfect finishing touch. For more than 25 years, Parviz and Patricia Golabi, the owners of Aladdin’s Rug Gallery, have been helping customers find the perfect area rugs for their homes and businesses.

“ When people come to us , they are purchasing an important item for their home. Customers become like friends and continue to do business with us over many years ,” shares Parviz. “ Seventy percent of our customers are repeat business. They return to us because the rugs they purchased years ago are of such high quality and are still beautiful. Some say their rugs still look new after 10 years. ”

The magnificent Chapel Hills Mall showroom makes it easy to view full-size rugs , from the classic symmetry of traditional designs to the bold palettes of southwest designs. “ Our large selection accommodates a wide range of tastes and price points ,” says Patricia. “ Our rugs are sourced from all over the world. We enjoy finding any type of rug a person is looking for , from handmade Persians to machine-made. If it exists , we will find it. ”

The customer service at Aladdin ’ s Rug Gallery is top-notch. Customers are welcome to take a rug home for a few days to observe its shape , patterns , and colors in the daylight and at night ; to feel its texture ; and to determine if it complements the overall aesthetic of their home or office. “ If they love it , they can keep it. If not , they can bring it back , no questions asked ,” Parviz says. They also carry pads that go under rugs and are suitable for a variety of surfaces , which is particularly helpful for those who are moving and want to take their rugs to their new home.

“ Many of our area rugs are one-of-a kind pieces of art and cannot be found online ,” Parviz continues. Those who have never bought a handmade rug may not have considered what kind of purchase they ’ re truly making. “ A handmade rug comes with a certificate verifying its age , its content , and its market value ,” he explains. “ Handmade rugs tend to keep their value and can be passed on to loved ones , traded , or sold. When someone finds a rug they love , they know it is a masterpiece. They want to enjoy it! ” Parviz can discern where and how a rug was made , how long it took to make it , and how to spot the weaver ’ s family signature on it. The renderings of intricate woven flowers , leaves , and paisley patterns are much more than whimsy. “ Many symbolize the story of a rug creator ’ s life. Finer , hand-knotted rugs are becoming harder to find ,” Parviz says , studying a large silk rug with 85 , 000 knots per square foot

that can take up to 10 years to complete. He points to framed photos of a 400-year-old rug that sold in New York for 33 million dollars. “ We have a machine-made copy of it for much less ,” he smiles.

Customers from coast to coast , from Texas to the Dakotas , and from all over Colorado appreciate the exceptional value and friendly customer service at Aladdin ’ s Rug Gallery. The Golabis share their extensive expertise and are happy to assist in rug selections by visiting customers ’ homes or businesses. “ We can trim and cut larger rugs to fit a smaller home , if someone wants to keep a favorite rug ,” Parviz says. “ We also have clips for stair runners , pillows , and wall hangers for displaying precious rugs or tapestry. ” Their affable store manager , George Basta , dropped by 10 years ago , looking for a job. “ I was welcomed and treated like family from day one ,” says George. “ I love working with people and learning from our customers. ”

Parviz and Patricia met at the University of Colorado in the 1980s. Patricia wanted to remain in her hometown of Colorado Springs , so they opened Aladdin ’ s Rug Gallery in the Chapel Hills Mall in 1993. In the years since , they ’ ve raised four sons in Colorado Springs while building a thriving , family-owned business. They give back to their community by donating to charity silent auctions and by offering military discounts.

“Our rugs are sourced from all over the world. We enjoy finding any type of rug a person is looking for, from handmade Persians to machine-made. If it exists, we will find it.”

Visit Aladdin ’ s Rug Gallery , open 7 days a week , inside Chapel Hills Mall , at 1710 Briargate Boulevard. You can reach them by phone at 719-260-8404. Of course , the best way to view a rug is in person , but you can check out their online gallery at aladdinsrug. com. They also offer wash , repair , buy , trade , and appraisals.

Midwestern Wineries

Wine Country Gets Local

By Janette Calabro

You don’t have to book a trip to Napa Valley for an amazing winery event. In fact, hundreds of wineries pepper the Midwest and the Rockies , beckoning us in for a taste , a party , or an event. Plan a scenic drive on your way—and don ’ t forget to pack a bag for an overnight stay.

Local wineries are stirring up visitors and excursionists with a new energy that highlights special events with a cozy, even romantic, feel. Gone are the days of traditional “come and go” tour groups. The new vibe

radiates a more personal experience with family and friends, exploring delicious wines on fertile Midwest farms or lofty perches high in the Rockies.

For some, fancy wines reigned last year, but 2019 punches in a different prediction for people who love midwestern wines. Red blends, chardonnay, and Riesling are high up on the tasting list, as is mead (fermented honey and water, sometimes with fruits, spices, and hops). Local vineyards are growing specialty grapes like cabernet Franc, with some sites climbing high into the Rockies. Cabernet Franc is one of the major black grape varieties for blending cabernet sauvignon and merlot, Bordeaux style. Some say that Bordeaux is making a comeback—if it ever left.

In 2019 , wine tastes are expanding. While one wine steward favors “ light brick reds ” as a leader this year , another boasts that classic pinot noir leads the pack. Other praiseworthy wines for 2019 include the German Riesling , great for food pairing and , now , more affordable. Also popular and affordable is French rosé in multiple varieties. Expect a rise in sales for both.

Not convinced you know how to taste wine? Follow the 4 S ’ s (seeing , swirling , sniffing , and sipping) , and you ’ re in the game. See it: Observe the color and clarity , which can be affected by age and process. Swirl it: Gently spin your glass stem to allow oxygen into the wine. Sniff it: Pull back the glass a few inches from your nose , then drop into the glass to better identify the aroma. Sip it: Let a small sip linger in your mouth to let your taste buds savor the subtle nuances.

Life is too short not to celebrate, and a good wine can improve just about any celebration. Is your 40th wedding anniversary coming up? Drink ruby red wine (ruby is the traditional gift for your 40th) from a crystal wine glass. Feeling like a grown-up at your 30th birthday party? Invite a few friends to an elegant winery, now that you’re really adults. Giggle at your high school reunion as you impress old friends with your skills in wine tasting.

How about scheduling a corporate event once annual sales goals hit that milestone number? A laidback picnic at the family reunion could always use some extra pizzazz—why not add a wine tasting? Remember that caterers and entertainers are often booked months

out, so plan ahead. For holiday parties, book about four months ahead (especially during the Christmas season) for in-the-moment, wine-stoked enchantment.

A local winery is a classic venue to tie the knot. Weddings celebrated at the local vineyard will be held in high regard when you and your guests are surrounded by cascading vines and a picturesque backdrop. Most wineries will accommodate perfect food choices for guests and, of course, a great wine menu. Make sure your caterers will have food-prep areas or kitchen space available. Most venues have access to large equipment like microphones, speakers, linens, tents, and lighting. Ask the winery if they have a vendor list that specializes in vineyard weddings.

Whether you ’re planning a quick visit to attend a great concert or an overnight stay after a wine dinner, choose an idea that embraces your brand and budget. Most wineries require a group reservation for private tastings—per-person tasting fees vary. Often, a deposit is required at the time of reservation. If you cancel, a no-show fee might be charged. Deposits are usually refunded if cancellation is made within 24 hours of making the appointment. Wineries and corresponding events are different, and so are deposits and cancellation policies. Check with your winery for specifics, and schedule appointments well in advance. The fees charged at wineries can vary widely, from $10–$150 per person. These fees depend on the winery and the activity.

Midwestern wineries are busiest during summer and fall, so schedule your event at the beginning of the year, and let the good times roll. Let the classic beauty of wine bring enjoyment to your next outing!

Sources for this article included: forbes.com, midwestliving.com, and tripstodiscover.com.

WE

Melanoma Is on the Rise

What Is a Tan Worth to You?

By Elizabeth French

We all love when the days get longer, the temperature begins to rise, and the wait for summer draws to a close. After months of darkness , our skin happily soaks in vitamin D and develops that golden summer glow that we ’ ve grown to love. However , a summer of tanning may turn into a life-threatening skin condition: melanoma. Rates of this type of skin cancer have been rising for three decades. According to the American Cancer Society , an estimated 96 , 480 new cases of melanoma will be

diagnosed in 2019, and 7,230 people will likely die of the disease. Melanoma affects the cells in the body that produce melanin, so it most often develops on the skin. It can often be successfully treated when it is caught early. However, it can be more serious than other skin cancers because of its tendency to metastasize (spread) throughout the rest of the body.

People with fair skin that burns easily, light-colored hair and eyes, or a history of intense sun exposure are at higher risk of developing melanoma. A family history of melanoma or a personal history of melanoma or other types of skin cancer also increases a person ’s risk of developing the disease.

To diagnose melanoma, doctors perform a simple biopsy, in which they remove a small piece of skin to send to a lab for testing. Since melanomas are generally small, the doctor will often remove the entire lesion in question to avoid another procedure in the future.

Melanoma treatment has several different options , including surgery to completely move the lesion , immunotherapy (using the body ’ s immune system to fight the cancer) , targeted therapy (hindering the growth of specific cancerous cells) , chemotherapy , and radiation therapy. Patients partner with their physicians , dermatologists , and oncologists to determine the best course of treatment. Even when melanoma is successfully treated , the patient remains at higher risk for developing another case of melanoma later in life. With each case of melanoma comes the risk of metastasis.

An important safety precaution is to regularly examine your skin for unusual growths. It can be hard to distinguish a normal mole from a cancerous skin lesion , so the American Cancer Society recommends using the ABCDE rule to help identify which skin spots need attention from a dermatologist.

A Few Words From One Of Our Advertisers:

“I have been an advertiser with Women’s Edition for a number of years. At first it was a stab in the dark; would this form of exposure work or would I need to look for another venue to get my services noticed? I have been very pleased with the quality of the magazine, the staff I have worked with, and most of all the quality of prospects who have become wonderful clients. I wholeheartedly recommend advertising in this publication.”

—Pauli Hubbard, CFP with Creative Financial Services, Inc.

Creative Financial Services, Inc.

A is for Asymmetry (when one half of the mole doesn ’ t match the other half). B is for Border (when borders are irregular or ragged). C is for Color (when a single mole contains more than one color). D is for Diameter (when a mole is larger than 6 mm across , which is about the size of a pencil eraser). E is for Evolving (when a mole has changed in shape , color , or size). If you have a mole that exhibits any of these warning signs or that has only shown up recently , make an appointment with your dermatologist. If you ’ re in a high risk category for melanoma , it ’ s a good idea to include a full-body visual examination in your annual physical.

No matter what your genetic risk factors may be , limiting your exposure to UV rays will lower your risk of developing melanoma. Simply staying in the shade is one of the best ways to limit your UV exposure. If you ’ re going to be in the sun , slip on a shirt as an added layer of protection from the sun ’ s rays , wear a hat , or sport stylish sunglasses that protect the eyes and the delicate skin around them. Be sure to find a hat with a wide brim to protect the most exposed areas of the face , eyes , forehead , neck , and scalp. Many hats now have UV ray protection and even reduce glare from reflective surfaces like water!

Of course , it ’ s vital to wear sunscreen (and to allow it to soak in before jumping into the water). Don ’ t forget to check the expiration date on that sunscreen! Most sunscreens expire after a couple of years , but some that have been exposed to heat may be less effective over time. Be sure to always have a spare on hand.

Finally , don ’ t forget to avoid tanning beds and sun lamps! You may have heard that UV exposure from tanning beds does not cause skin cancer—this is simply not the case. Just like UV rays from the sun , UV rays from tanning beds greatly increase your risk of developing skin cancer. Even the tiny UV lamps used at nail salons can cause damage to the skin. For a beaming glow without the harmful damage , try a tanning lotion or spray. This safer option is also quicker and cheaper—you can often achieve a darker look in just one session! If you have any questions about your own melanoma risk , contact your dermatologist today.

Sources for this article included: cancer. org, skincancer.org, and medicinenet.com. WE

Our Orthopaedic Surgeons and multi-disciplinary team of specialists offers the most comprehensive orthopaedic care for injuries and degenerative conditions of the shoulder, elbow, hand, wrist, foot, ankle, hip, & knees. Treating everyone from injured workers, to weekend warriors, to Olympic athletes.

Spring Floor Cleaning

Wash Away the Winter!

By Anne Yankus

It’s been a long, messy winter, and your house is probably a little worse for the wear. Now that spring has finally sprung, it’s the perfect time for a deep clean of all your carpets, hard flooring, rugs, and upholstery!

As something that probably covers most of your floors, carpet can

get pretty dirty over the winter months. Fortunately, professional carpet cleaners can bring their services right to your door. The most popular methods of carpet cleaning are steaming or dry cleaning.

Carpet steaming (or carpet shampooing) is a pretty straightforward process. You can purchase or rent a steam machine and clean them yourself, but professionals can offer your carpets a deeper clean. Most professionals use a truck-mounted steam cleaner that will heat the water and detergents to a higher temperature than a purchased or rental unit. The larger and more powerful machines get your carpet cleaner and shorten the time for drying. You’ll need to keep foot traffic to a minimum while the carpet is drying

On the other hand, dry cleaning can be a great option if you don

’t have time to wait for the carpet to dry. This method consists of spreading a cleaning agent on the carpet, working the powder

into the carpet with a stiff brush or broom, waiting a couple of hours, and vacuuming the cleaners back up. Hiring a professional lets you avoid having to handle the chemicals yourself. You’ll want to keep pets and children away from the carpet while the dry cleaners are working; once they’re done, you ’ve got clean and dry carpet to walk or play on.

What about rugs? Throw rugs and bath mats can generally be put into a gentle wash cycle, and larger area rugs can usually be cleaned using the same methods as your carpet. However, cleaning antique or delicate rugs should be left to specialized professionals. They are familiar with the fibers and dyes used in all types of rugs and can customize a cleaning method that won’t damage your rug. Many specialty rug cleaners also offer repair services—you’d be amazed what they can do with patching and weaving!

Ask about

How about the hard floors in your house, like in the bathrooms and the kitchen? You’ve been doing basic sweeping and mopping all year, which helps keep the dirt and salt of winter at bay. In the spring, however, you ’ll want to get down and really scrub these floors for a deep clean. While there are many DIY methods out there for cleaning tile and hardwood flooring, most of us just don’t have the time or patience for it. That’ s when you call the pros!

Like carpet steamers, professional tile cleaners will use a high-pressure machine with hot water and powerful solvents to get a deep clean that you can’t achieve with elbow grease alone. Some cleaning services also offer grout sealing to keep your grout cleaner longer! Professional tile cleaning can last up to three or four years before you need to call the cleaners again.

Last, but not least, you ’ve got upholstery to be cleaned. Just like clothing, your upholstered furniture should have a tag with cleaning instructions on it. Most tags will have a simple W (can clean with water), S (no water; special solvent-based cleaner only), WS (water or solvent-based cleaners), or X (vacuum only). When in doubt, you can always look up cleaning methods based on the type of fabric. Anything marked with WS can be steam-cleaned. Professional carpet cleaners often bring upholstery attachments to deep-clean your furniture.

Like any time you hire a professional, you ’ll want to do your research before choosing someone to clean your floors and upholstery. The website for the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is a great place to start. The IICRC not only certifies cleaners to a globally-recognized standard of excellence—they also have a search function to help you find certified professionals in your area. Whether or not you use their search engine to find local cleaners, you ’ll want to keep an eye out for IICRC certifications. They certify cleaners for carpet, rugs, stone, tile, and both textile and leather upholstery. Make professional floor cleaning a regular part of your spring cleaning routine. Once your floors have been refreshed, you ’ll wonder how you were able to tolerate the winter grime for so many months!

Sources for this article included: hunker. com, thespruce.com, architecturaldigest.com, and iicrc.org. WE

Create a Space You Love

Back to Basics

Life is Meant to be Fun

“If it feels good, it’s good. If it feels bad, it’s bad.” —Abraham/Hicks

I am remembering the importance of reaching for that goodfeeling place in my life. I am remembering that laughter is good. I am remembering that fun is good. I am remembering that life is what I decide it is going to be, and I want it to be positive. I am remembering that like attracts like. I am remembering that life is supposed to be fun. Boy, this feels like coming home.

“At the end of the day, if I can say I had fun, it was a good day.”

—Simone Biles

Years ago, I had weekly meetings with friends to discuss the Abraham/Hicks teachings and philosophy. It was a small group. We had all listened to the weekly cassette…yes, cassette…and we discussed what we had learned. Inevitably, I would ask everyone, “Did you have any fun this week?” Looking back on it, I would guess that my question was quite annoying to everyone in my group.

“When you start recognizing that you’re having fun, life can be delightful.” —Jane Birkin

Fun is a great thing. Think about the people you like to spend

By Janet Van deWalle

time with. My best guess is that you like to spend time with them because they are FUN!

“Let go of the people who dull your shine, poison your spirit, and bring you drama. Cancel your subscription to their issues.” —Steve Marboli

Analyzing whether we are having fun may seem silly, but think about those people out there who appear to be truly having fun. It may be an incredibly successful business person—Richard Branson comes to mind. It may be your neighbor, who is a stay-at-home parent who adores his or her children. It may be a committed athlete who is always smiling and winning. The common denominator is that they love their lives. They are passionate about what they have made a commitment to. They are having fun, just about every single day.

“Edit your life frequently and ruthlessly. It’s your masterpiece, after all.” —Anonymous

Editing our lives means making deliberate decisions about everything…about who we are going to spend time with, what movies we ’ll choose to watch, what “channel” we are going to tune into every morning. This determines the level of fun in our lives. I’m choosing fun. Today. Tomorrow. Every day. Back to basics. Life is meant to be fun!

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