Women's Edition Lincoln – December 2019

THE MAGAZINE FOR METROPOLITAN WOMEN

December 2019 Always Free!

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December 2019

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Publisher’s Notes

Be a Kid…Feel the Magic Happy holidays, everyone! Are you ready yet?

I am always so impressed when people are on top of their game and have shopping completed, gifts wrapped—and shipped! How do they do it?

In the past, I have always been one of those last-minute shoppers, most likely because I haven’t really embraced the holidays for years. Maybe this year will be different! My husband, Manny, is truly a holiday elf. Doesn’t matter what holiday. He loves them all.

For example…Halloween. I am confessing here that, for the last six years, I have “gone dark” at my house during Halloween. This year, Manny and I were working at Women’s Edition. (Yes, he’s joined our team!) He said, “We have to go get candy…the trick-or-treaters will be at our house soon.” I admit, I sort of cringed. He then said, “It’s our first Halloween since we’ve been married!”

Well, that did it. I raced to get candy, and he headed for home in the Harry Potter costume he had put on first thing that morning. It was fun!

The kids were so very cute and so intrigued that Harry Potter was handing out candy to them. We had a record count on Halloween: 28 trick-or treaters. Years ago, if I got 10, I thought I was doing well. I really enjoyed it! The best costume was worn by an adult who was taking his kids around the neighborhood. He was a sumo wrestler. You get the picture.

With Thanksgiving and Christmas coming up, I am hoping that my holiday spirit continues. I have a feeling that it will. Manny has brought an entirely new perspective to my life. We have fun together, even when we are working, either at home or at the magazine. Being positive about the upcoming holidays has already gotten me in a better frame of mind. It’s the first week of November as I’m writing this, and I’m already thinking of ideas for gifts!

I realize that the holidays put additional stress on all of us, particularly women! We have to cram so much more into our already hectic schedules.

Here is a wish for all: I hope you find some time to be an innocent child—for at least a little while—this holiday.

Take some time for yourself to do what makes YOU happy! Maybe that is a long, hot bath with lots of candles, a drive around the neighborhood to see the lights, or a trip to see an old friend who always makes you smile. Do what you can to be a kid this season. Feel the magic. Then you can take care of everyone else!

Hope it’s a great holiday season. Onward to an amazing 2020!

Points of Interest From stocking suffers to home improvement, many advertisers are having great holiday offers and deals! Please shop local and let them know you heard about their business in Women’s Edition.

A delicious holiday starts with the main course. Del Gould Meats has a great selection for your holiday meals. They also have gift boxes available! See their ad on page 1 for contact information.

Looking for a new home this year?

Chateau Development has great floorplans to choose from including apartments and townhomes. Check out the ad on page 29 for all the details.

The Time Shoppe…where last minute shopping becomes timeless. Be sure to take a look at all of their services in the ad on page 15.

Have you been struggling with yo-yo diets and constantly battle with weight loss? Read about the latest in bariatric surgery at Heartland Surgical at Pine Lake Behavioral Health in our Healthy Living article on page 26 and see their ad on page 19.

Look great at your holiday party this winter with a new hair style or color! Walkins are welcomed at Partners N Hair. See the ad and details on page 30.

See the special event—Fantasy of Trees and Christmas Past and Present—at Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer! Details of all their special events can be found in their ad on page 9.

Cause for Paws has great holiday gifts and decor for everyone on your list. See their ad on page 25 for details on their upcoming 11th anniversary celebration!

Janet Van deWalle, National Publisher On the Cover: Tommy Bahama More information at www.tommybahama.com

Positive Thought of the Month “May your walls know joy, may every room hold laughter, and every window open to great possibility.”

— Mary Anne Radmacher

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December 2019

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Inside This Edition

10

2 Publisher’s Notes

22

Out and About

6 Fashion Worthy

24

To Your Good Health

9 Zodiac Forecast

26

Healthy Living

10 Weekend Gourmet

28

Home Works

12 Great Escapes

30

The Market Place

14 Seasons of Life

32

Income Outcome

33

Kids Comments

Short-term rehab facilities specialize in making sure recovery happens as quickly and as successfully as possible.

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The winter holidays are upon us.

Do you greet them with anticipation, or with a feeling of dread? Stress has its purpose—but it can also have adverse effects on our health.

16 Good Looks 18 Interiors By Design

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Auto Wise

20 Fresh Concept

36

Positive Perspective

Worldwide, obesity rates have almost tripled since 1975, and they continue to rise in the United States, for both adults and children.

National Publisher/Editor Janet Van deWalle

Have you ever met someone who has “an ego the size of Montana”?

The minute we meet people like this, we can sense that they are all about themselves.

Customer Service Coordinator Tiffanie Gregory

Art & Editorial Director Erin Lanza

12 Administrative Assistant Michelle Goodro

Copy Editor Liz Huett

Women’s Edition 4210 So uth 33rd Stre et, S u ite 240 • Lin coln, NE 68506 • (402) 466-2677 National Publisher: Women’s Edition, Inc. 888-892-4076 Women’s Edition® The Magazine For Metropolitan Women is a registered trademark of Women’s Edition, Inc. (Reg. No. 2,501,858).

All rights reserved. Women’s Edition has no affiliation with any other publication.

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December 2019

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Fashion Worthy

It’s Time to Get Fancy for Holiday Parties!

Flaunt Your Holiday Style

By Holly Bell

The holidays are the best time of the year to get dressed up! People have become so used to casual attire, it is really a treat to have a reason to don your party outfit and feel festive again. This holiday season, have fun dressing up in many ways. Try on-trend romantic black lace and ruffles! Black lace is so wonderfully versatile and so in style this holiday.

If wearing all-over lace and ruffles seems a little too much for you, you can still nod to the trend by layering a black lace top under a sleeveless black dress or jumper.

You can accessorize with lace, too. Wear a lace shawl around your shoulders or belt it around your hips over a solid black background. On this year’s runways, designers surprised us with the modern juxtaposition of edgier shoes with lace. Sometimes, opposites do attract! We saw boots with lace, rather than the delicate heels you might presume. Another juxtaposition was today’s fashion made with fabrics that seemed to be taking inspiration from years gone by. One of the most festive holiday trends was one we haven’t seen in a while: high-shine fabrics like lamé or shiny satin. This blast-from-the-past fabric shines on the runway and will make you feel ready to party.

One of the most-asked questions about the holiday party season is, “What is appropriate to wear to a work party?” This is a tricky issue to navigate. Should you choose looking professional or looking chic? Should you throw in the towel and wear an ugly but funny holiday sweater?

Don’t worry; you can make a festive but appropriate entrance to your holiday work party, even if your event is directly after work. Some suggestions would be to wear a soft, romantic maxi dress layered under a tailored blazer.

Bring along some dressy shoes and a sparkly necklace to swap out for your more conservative work accessories when you remove your blazer. Wear your conservative black pantsuit to work, but bring along a trendy top in gold or silver lamé or satin. Ditch the jacket and swap out your top, along with adding some dangle earrings, and your outfit says, “Hey, colleagues, let’s party!”

If your event is not directly after work, you have more options to wear and more time to get ready. Velvet is back as a holiday classic, and nothing is more elegant. For a casual twist on party attire, try a velvet top worn with your favorite jeans. Designers are always borrowing from past looks, and brocade has come into its own again. Try a brocade jacket or a brocade skirt for an elegant look.

Sequined fabrics are always fun to try. A sequined skirt worn with a tailored top is a great choice for a work party.

No matter what you wear, keep in mind that you can’t go

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wrong by keeping your look tasteful. You work with these people, so keep your cleavage under wraps and your hemlines below the knee.

While everyone is considering party dresses, are you trending toward pants?

Some women love dresses, but some strongly prefer pants, even for dressy occasions. Never fear—pants can be part of a holiday party ensemble. Try some full-legged pants in a soft, flowing fabric for a chic look. Keep the look tailored with a white blouse on top, adding some glittery jewelry and party shoes to keep things festive. Shiny fabrics are the rage this season, so try some satin pants! Add a velour top to pair shiny with matte for a gorgeous contrast in fabrics. Jewel tones are always in the spotlight during the holidays. Deep red, royal blue, and emerald green are all flattering and festive options.

One way to stand out at holiday party time is to wear white! Yes, I am talking about white pants or even an all-white ensemble. Add a black belt with an important buckle and you will stand out in a sea of black dresses.

Are you going to a house party or throwing a party at your own home? You need to be comfortable! Velour pants are the answer. Nothing is more comfortable or easier to wear. Add a top with a little sparkle detail and be ready for anything!

Every holiday season is special, but try to make this one even more enjoyable.

No holiday plans are perfect, and prioritizing is key to a fun holiday season.

Choose a couple of things you really want to do well and let the other things go.

No matter what you wear, your best accessories will be the smile on your face and the light in your eyes!

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 www.inspiredstyle.com

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December 2019

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8

Zodiac Forecast

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SAGITTARIUS November 22–December 21 Happy birthday, Sagittarius! This month, you should emphasize your own personal enjoyment as well as that of your loved ones. It’s the best season of the year, and love is in the air! There is much peace and harmony within your family. Throughout or following the winter holiday season, you may be traveling a lot with your family. Travel destinations could be new and exotic.

Capricorn (Dec 22–Jan 19) You are unwinding from a hectic year.

One way to relax is going to places you’ve never been—just for the joy of it!

Aquarius (Jan 20–Feb 18) Let the past go…the New Year is just around the corner. Focus on what the future may hold for you.

Loved ones will be encouraging.

Pisces (Feb 19–Mar 20) Your family plays a positive role in your life, and you enjoy a harmonious relationship with your partner…all the makings for a perfect holiday!

Aries (Mar 21–Apr 19) You love the holidays and often use this as a time to concentrate on future endeavors. Love can be found at social gatherings, so single Rams should not skip those holiday parties.

Cancer (Jun 21–Jul 22) You are going to have a great month financially. This enables you to pamper yourself and spoil your loved ones. Get out and enjoy all the festive highlights of the holiday season!

Leo (Jul 23–Aug 22) Although you are very independent, this is the season to expand your social horizons. Although your past might surface and haunt you, make it a point to focus on your future. Get out there and mingle—watch out for that mistletoe!

Virgo (Aug 23–Sep 22) Love will be stronger this month as loved ones spend more time together during the holiday season.

Remember, some of the greatest gifts are memories!

Taurus (Apr 20–May 20) Those born under the Taurus sign are always mindful of helping others. Use your compassion by offering your gifts and time to the less fortunate this holiday season.

Libra (Sep 23–Oct 22) Your health will be superb this month.

Travel locally. There is so much to see and do during the festive season, even close to home. Harmonize with your family and enjoy their company. You should revel in all of it!

Gemini (May 21–Jun 20) It’s a very social time of the year. Being social is essential to good health! Keep up your immune system so you won’t have to stay home.

Scorpio (Oct 23–Nov 21) Family matters will be your main priority this month. As you enjoy the season, you relish in your past achievements and your goals for the New Year. WE

December 2019

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Weekend Gourmet

Holiday Sweets and Treats!

By Kate Beiting

Kristi’s Homemade Ornaments Mix 4 cups of flour, 2 cups of salt, 1 teaspoon of alum, and 1 and 1/2 cups of water. Mix with hands and then roll out on a lightly floured board until the dough is 1/8 of an inch thick. Cut into desired shapes with cookie cutters and use a straw to make a string hole in the top of each one. Place the cutouts on an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake at 250 degrees for 30 minutes.

Turn them over and bake for another 90 minutes, until hard and dry. Cool. Use fine sandpaper to smooth the edges, if necessary.

Paint with acrylic or poster paint. Let dry, then shellac and hang.

Easy Christmas Fruitcake Whisk 2 and 1/2 cups of flour with 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda and set aside. In a large bowl, mix together 2 eggs, one 28-ounce jar of ready-to-use mincemeat, one 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk, 2 cups of mixed candied fruit, and 1 cup of roughly chopped walnuts or pecans. Mix well. Blend in the flour and baking soda. Grease and flour a Bundt or tube-style cake pan. Pour in the ingredients. Bake at 300 degrees for 50–55 minutes, until cake tests done. Cool.

Pour an ounce of good bourbon over the cake and refrigerate.

You can add bourbon once a week until ready to serve.

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Ginger Creams Mix 1/2 cup of sugar, 1/3 cup of butter, 1 egg, 1/2 cup of molasses, and 1/2 cup of water. Stir in a mixture of 2 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of ground ginger, and 1/2 teaspoon each of salt, baking soda, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon.

Refrigerate for 1 hour.

Using a teaspoon, drop dough onto ungreased cookie sheets.

Bake for 8 minutes at 400 degrees. Cool.

To make the frosting, combine 1/3 cup of soft butter, 2 cups of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla, and 1 Tablespoon of milk in a bowl. Spread or pipe onto cookies.

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Franklin’s Treasures and Treats

Franklin’s Treasures and Treats

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Jam Cookies Mix together 1 and 3/4 cups of flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. In a separate bowl, cream together 3/4 cup of soft butter, 2/3 cup of sugar, 1 egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Slowly blend the dry ingredients with the egg mixture.

Spoon out balls of dough and roll them in sugar. Place the balls on a cookie sheet and indent the middle of each one with your thumb. Fill the indentation with raspberry or strawberry jam. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes. Cool. Makes about 36 cookies.

Dolly Dream Bars Lightly grease a 9x13-inch pan. Mix 1 and 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs with 1/2 cup of melted butter. Mix and press firmly onto the bottom of the baking dish. Pour one 14-ounce can of sweetened condensed milk over the crumbs.

Layer with 1 cup of butterscotch chips, 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1 and 1/3 cups of flaked coconut, and 1 cup of chopped pecans.

Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes or until lightly browned.

Loosen a bit while still warm and then let cool. Cut into squares.

Grandpa’s Old Fashioned Peppermint Popcorn Pour 3 quarts of plain, unseasoned popcorn (store-bought is fine) into a large roasting pan. Melt 1 stick of butter in a saucepan.

Pour in 1 cup of sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 cup of light corn syrup. Cook (stirring) until sugar dissolves and mixture boils. Boil (without stirring) for 5 minutes. Remove from heat.

Add 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract and 1/8 teaspoon of green food coloring. (You could use any color of food coloring—

maybe combine a batch of red and a batch of green!) Pour over popcorn and stir to mix well. Bake on a cookie sheet for 1 hour at 250 degrees, stirring several times.

Optional extra peppermint: During the last 10 minutes of baking, sprinkle with 3–4 broken-up candy canes and put back in the oven.

My Sister’s Bourbon Balls (Cookies for Adults!)

Combine 3 cups of vanilla wafer crumbs, 1 cup of ground pecans, 1 cup of powdered sugar, and 1 and 1/2 Tablespoons of cocoa. Mix in 3 Tablespoons of light corn syrup and 1/2 cup of bourbon or rum (or orange juice). Shape into 1-inch balls. Roll in powdered sugar. Cover and store in the refrigerator.

Toffee Bars Line the bottom of a 9x13-inch pan with foil and spray lightly with a non-stick spray. Place graham crackers all over the foil, breaking them at perforations to fit the pan.

In a saucepan, melt 2 sticks of butter with 1 cup of light brown sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Boil for 4 minutes, stirring constantly. Pour over graham crackers. Bake for 6–7 minutes at 350 degrees.

Remove from oven and sprinkle the top with 2 cups of semisweet chocolate chips, spreading the chips while the bars are warm. Top with toffee bits, if desired. Let cool, then cut or break into pieces.

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. WE

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December 2019

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Great Escapes

Cruises Ocean Versus River

By Jackie Williams

I just got back from my second European river cruise, and I am ready to book my next one! I love the relaxing feel of travel along the river. The views are constantly changing, the atmosphere on board is very laid back, and (unlike the party scene on larger ocean ships), there just aren’t that many people on board. I love having the space to immerse myself in the destination.

I was attracted to booking with U by Uniworld because of the active excursion options. Hiking up to castles and biking along vineyards and orchards is my idea of a good time, in addition to the walking tours around the cities. I also appreciated that I did not feel like cattle, being herded along with thousands of other tourists at each port. I wasn’t alone in these opinions—everyone I talked to on our ship, “The A,” felt the same way.

River cruises used to be mainly for senior travelers, but the median age of a river cruise guest has dropped to 45 years. On the U by Uniworld cruise that I took, I saw guests of a wide variety of ages, from their 20s to their 70s, and everyone seemed to be having a good time. With free Wi-Fi, buffet-style meals, a fleet of bicycles on the deck, wellness activities every morning, daily guided tours, and on-board spa treatments, all the bases were covered. You can make a river cruise like this into a vacation that is as structured or non-structured as you want.

River cruises are gaining in popularity and ships are booking at 100 percent occupancy, so look ahead now to when you want to travel. River cruises lines are reporting satisfaction rates of over 96 percent.

Companies like Uniworld, U by Uniworld, Viking, AmaWaterways, Tauck, and Avalon all offer luxurious experiences and are now following the trends by offering active tours in addition to the traditional walking tours. River cruises are typically for adult passengers, but there are some family itineraries where you can bring the kids and grandkids, especially during the holidays. I cannot wait to try out another river cruise line! The two experiences I have had have been wonderful but different, and I’m looking forward to trying a third.

Does the drama of an oversized ocean liner sound more like your style? If so, you’re not alone.

About 30 million people are expected to take an ocean cruise this year, and cruise travel is booming. Why do people love cruises so much? Offering itineraries for travelers of all ages to enjoy, visiting multiple destinations in one trip, and the ease of booking are among the many reasons. Women-only and solo itineraries are also on the rise. People are looking to spend their money on experiences instead of material things, to stay connected while traveling, and to pay attention to their personal wellness. The cruise lines have heard and are delivering!

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Where is everyone going? Well, cruises to the Mediterranean are growing in popularity, as are cruises of shorter durations. Alaska and the Caribbean are always popular, and more people are cruising Asia, as well. Mega ships that hold more than 6,500 passengers are destinations in themselves! This year alone, 18 new ocean ships debuted, with plenty more scheduled for the next five years to meet the demand.

According to a 2019 poll done by Conde Nast Traveler, the best-rated cruise lines this year out of small ships are Crystal and Windstar. The best mid-sized cruise ships are Crystal, Viking Ocean, and Seabourn. For the large ocean liners, it’s Disney, Cunard, and Holland America. This doesn’t mean that Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Princess, and the like are not up to par. They have plenty to offer, including great value and a lot of fun.

Ocean cruises are great vacations for a family traveling with multiple generations. One ship hotel manager explained to me that they make sure the kids love their cruises—when the kids are happy, the parents are happy, and that means everyone wants to come back!

Planning now for next year would be a great idea.

Talk to your travel agent about where you would like to cruise and which ship you would like to take, but keep an open mind—your agent might have some great ideas for you. Booking through a travel agent can get you better pricing and perks. It also saves you a ton of time when you make someone else responsible for arranging the trip! That’s a win-win situation. Get ready to cruise the world with your family next year!

Sources for this article included: cruising.org, statista. com, and maritime-executive.com. WE

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December 2019

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Seasons of Life

Short-Term Rehabilitation Faster, More Complete Recovery

By Linda Barnes

As much as we prefer not to think about unexpected illnesses, surgeries, or injuries, it’s so helpful to be informed about the options for transition from hospital to home before you’re staring that transition in the face.

Short-term rehab facilities specialize in making sure recovery happens as quickly and as successfully as possible.

Perhaps you’re planning an elective surgery and wondering about the advantages of rehabilitation services available at a short-term facility. When my husband had knee replacement surgery, we were confident that, between the two of us, we could manage his care afterward. Not everyone is so fortunate! Many patients live alone or with family members who are unable to perform the care needed after hospitalization. In these cases, a short-term rehab facility is a great choice. Patients who are well enough to leave the hospital after a stroke, surgery, or injury can heal under the care of professionals until they’re able to function independently at home.

Statistics show that 20 percent of patients need post-acute care after release from the hospital. In patients who are 65 years and older, the number jumps to 40 percent. Post-acute care can be provided by a skilled nursing facility, short-term rehab, or home health care.

Short-term rehab may be a special unit of a hospital, a wing of a skilled nursing facility, or a free-standing facility. The goal is to provide the medical care, therapies, and support needed to return to optimal function. A typical stay lasts two to four weeks.

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Regardless of the structure, inpatient short-term rehab has certain common features. Professional medical staff is on site around the clock. Doctors and nurses supervise the medical care of the residents.

Trained therapists provide daily physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy on site. Rooms may be private or semi-private, depending upon the facility. Meals are provided, along with assistance with getting in and out of bed, if needed. Medications are dispensed and social needs are addressed.

Recent studies have shown that those who take advantage of inpatient short-term rehab have quicker recoveries, lower mortality rates, and fewer re-admissions to the hospital. One reason for the lower re-admission rate is that short-term rehab has trained staff who can deal with unexpected medical issues on site. This avoids the trip to the emergency room that someone recuperating at home might have to take.

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The rehabilitation part of the equation is an important part of the success of these programs. Physical, occupational, and speech therapists are integral parts of the recovery process. Physical therapy involves strengthening muscles and learning to use aids like walkers, wheelchairs, and canes. Patients practice sitting and getting up as well as using stairs. Occupational therapy concentrates on daily activities that will be needed when the patient returns home. Preparing meals, getting dressed, and using medical response tools are some of these skills.

Speech therapy is often needed with stroke patients and those with other injuries or surgeries that affect swallowing or verbal communication. Those in rehab can strengthen tongue and lip muscles and re-learn to drink and swallow. The number of hours spent in daily therapy depends on the level of injury or the skills that the patient needs to re-learn. Outpatient therapy may follow release when ongoing work is needed.

A short-term rehab center near my home offers all the medical and therapy support plus some terrific amenities. The goals are maximum health, wellness, and independence. Meals are chef-prepared.

They have patios and outdoor spaces, walkin showers, educational programs, Wi-Fi, activities, and entertainment. A full calendar, including games, crafts, music, and afternoon coffee and cookies keeps everyone engaged.

For younger patients, private health insurance will likely pay, but it’s always smart to make sure. Those 65 and older who are on Medicare will need to meet certain criteria. A three-night hospital stay is required, within the previous 30 days, as well as a need for daily skilled services. A doctor must order the short-term inpatient rehab. Medicare covers the first 20 days. For days 21-100, a co-pay is required.

If you’re planning elective surgery, scout out the possibilities ahead of time and visit the facilities, if you can. Be aware that you might not always have your first choice if the facility is full, so prioritize a list of three or four, just in case.

A facility must have Medicare certification in order to receive Medicare reimbursement.Your state and local government may require licensing or other credentials, as well. Look for a facility that is clean and well-staffed. The other amenities will depend upon your personal preferences.

Why not opt for the best chance of a quicker and more complete recovery in a short-term rehab facility?

Sources for this article included: medlineplus. gov, usnews.com, and seniordirectory.com. WE

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December 2019

15

Good Looks

Have a Stress-Free Holiday Give the Gift of Massage or Aromatherapy

By Loretta McCollum

’Tis the season of making merry! December is filled with family gatherings, parties, and shopping for the perfect gifts for the special people on your list. It’s definitely the most joyful time of the year, but it can also be the most fatiguing. The majority of us run ourselves ragged in our quest to provide the perfect holiday for our family and friends. At the end of the day, we are often too frenzied and frazzled to actually enjoy the fruits of our labor. We need to take time out from all of the festivities, food, and frolic to relax and rejuvenate. Getting a massage is a great way to ease the stress and strain of the holidays.

Are you one of the many people who often say they would love a massage but have never actually gotten one? Well, enough is enough. Don’t you deserve a little attention and relaxation? Let’s make this the holiday season that you finally treat yourself. The frenzied end to the year is an ideal time to reward yourself for all that you do for others.

A professional massage can also be the perfect gift for the person on your list who seems to have everything. A massage can have many physical benefits, including muscle relaxation, stress relief, improving sleep quality, and easing chronic pain.

Certain types of massage can also help with specific problems, like sports injuries.

There are multiple types of massage, each designed to

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produce a particular result. Swedish massages utilize soft, broad strokes up and down the entire body, focusing on specific regions that are often strained or fatigued. The muscles are rubbed in the direction that blood returns to the heart. Tapping motions on the top layer of muscles, combined with manipulated joint movement, is both relaxing and energizing. A Swedish massage also increases the blood’s oxygen levels, improving circulation and relieving tension.

Hot stone massages help relax tight muscles with, as the name describes, hot stones. Stones that have been heated in water are placed on specific areas of the body, such as the back, stomach, and face. The stones warm and relax the muscles. The massage therapist is then able to apply deeper pressure on those areas without discomfort to the person on the table. A hot stone massage can decrease stress, increase flexibility, and decrease muscle spasms.

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A deep tissue massage is an intense massage that specifically targets muscle knots and tissue adhesions. The massage therapist applies warm oils and direct pressure to relax the top muscle layers, allowing for penetration to the deeper muscle tissues. This type of massage is more of a therapeutic treatment than a relaxation aid; it helps relieve chronic aches and pains. It’s also beneficial for sports injuries, sciatica pain, and fibromyalgia. During a deep tissue massage, you should expect to feel pressure that is significantly more intense than what you would feel during a Swedish massage.

It’s fairly common to feel sore the next day.

There’s also Shiatsu, a Japanese technique in which the therapist applies finger pressure to multiple areas, holding each one for several seconds. Stretching and joint rotation are also employed. This massage method is based on traditional Chinese acupuncture and can help ease headache pain and muscle pain and stiffness. It promotes overall well-being and can also increase blood flow and improve mood.

Reflexology is a type of massage that applies pressure to various reflex areas of the feet, relieving pain and stress while promoting relaxation and a good night’s sleep. This kind of massage can be especially wonderful for someone who stands for long periods of time.

Aromatherapy is not a type of massage, but it is another type of holistic and healing treatment that can be used in conjunction with other therapies or on its own. Aromatherapy uses natural plant extracts in many forms, including diffusers, oils, creams, lotions, and bath salts. It’s more than just enjoying a pleasant scent (though that is an added benefit). Aromatherapy is known for managing pain, reducing stress and anxiety, relieving fatigue, and improving digestion. If you’re interested in aromatherapy, you may want to seek out a certified aromatherapist. Your local spa or yoga studio is a good place to start for a referral.

This time of year, who couldn’t use an extra dose of relaxation? Give the amazing and beneficial gift of massage to a loved one…or to yourself. Your local spa, salon, or massage therapy studio can help you choose the best options for your gift to yourself or to someone else.

Sources for this article included: healthline.com, webmd.com, and amcollege.edu. WE

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December 2019

17

Interiors

by Design

Sweet Dreams Stylish, Sleep-Friendly Beds

By Robyn V. Powell

Nothing is more inviting than a luxurious bed. From the quality of the mattress to the thread count of the sheets, the details matter. As Americans, we spend nearly half our life in bed, but only 53 percent of us actually like our beds. In fact, three out of four people believe their bed should be more comfortable. How did we end up this way?

According to recent research, most people are more concerned about choosing a bed that looks good than one that feels good. If your bed is more like a nightmare than a dream come true, it’s time to wake up. There’s no need to sacrifice style for comfort! It’s possible to create a bed that provides the comfortable, rejuvenating sleep you need without sacrificing the style you love.

When it comes to building your dream bed, selecting the right mattress is foundational. Experts recommend replacing your mattress every eight years—or sooner, if you’re experiencing chronic neck or back pain. While there are many considerations in mattresses, ranging from your budget to your preferred sleeping position, the biggest challenge is identifying the ideal construction and material to give you the right levels of support and comfort.

Innovative materials and technology have made it possible to match the right product to your personal needs. Traditional and durable coil mattresses provide good bounce, and they sleep cooler

than other options. Memory foam offers good contour and hug but retains heat, while natural latex is cool, comfortable, and bouncy.

When shopping for mattresses, it’s best to try reclining on different types (not a bad way to spend an afternoon). Bring your sleep partner along to ensure the mattress you choose will be a happy fit for you both!

The journey to dreamland doesn’t stop at your mattress. You need quality linens, as well. Many people assume that higher thread counts equate to better quality linens and make their buying decision based on this feature alone. While it’s true that thread count is important, there’s another factor that plays an even more important role in overall comfort: the type of fabric. According to Consumer Reports, there’s no need to pay extra for sheets with thread counts over 400, but it is worth the extra cost for sheets made from the best quality cotton. Investing in pima, Egyptian, and

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The number one complaint among sleepers is waking up hot. Whether you naturally run hot, are going through menopause, or are just trying to stay cool in a bedroom that’s heated to someone else’s taste, waking up drenched in sweat is unpleasant and can throw off your sleep cycle.

Dressing your bed with cooling linens can keep you from overheating at night and help ensure quality shut-eye.

Natural cotton is one of the most breathable textiles on the market. Percale sheets, known for their crisp, airy feel, are ideal for breathable summer nights. Keep in mind that the tighter weave of linens with high thread counts can reduce breathability and increase heat retention; when it comes to cool comfort, cotton sheets with lower thread counts are a better option. To help manage night sweats, look for linens that offer unique features like cooling technology, moisture wicking, and super lightweight and breathable construction, like eco-friendly soft bamboo and microfiber. For best results, pair cooling sheets with a cooling mattress protector or cooling blanket.

For many hot-blooded sleepers, cooling pillows made with materials that release heat more effectively than regular pillows can help provide a sounder night’s sleep.

(That way, every side of the pillow is the cool side!) From cooling gel to memory foam, cooling pillows are often designed with contours to help eliminate pain and stiffness. There’s no need to sacrifice comfort for cool, so search for a pillow that gives you the best of all worlds. Even if you don’t need a cooling pillow, you might want a contoured shape to keep your head and neck in proper alignment while you rest. Bedding store specialists are excellent resources to help guide you through the maze of options.

Your bedroom should be a stylish retreat where you go at the end of the day to rest your mind, rejuvenate your body, and renew your spirit. To create a relaxed vibe, this year’s bedding trends inspire serenity.

The all-white bed, always beautiful and fresh, is all about soft layering and luxe texturing. Begin with sumptuous linens, top with a lush velvet coverlet, a lofty duvet, and clouds of just slightly overstuffed pillows. A faux fur throw adds just the right touch of cozy luxe to help you drift away!

Sources for this article included: consumerreports.com, sleep.org, and sleep health.org. WE

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December 2019

19

Fresh Concept

Obesity is Ballooning Bariatric Surgery Can Help

By Janette Calabro

Worldwide, obesity rates have almost tripled since 1975, and they continue to rise in the United States, for both adults and children. The American Medical Association (AMA) states that “the nation’s obesity rate is approaching 40 percent after holding around 34–35 percent between 2005 and 2012. No state has had a statistically significant drop in its obesity rate in the past five years.” The AMA goes on to note that rising obesity rates bring an increase in related diseases, some of which can be serious or even life-threatening. That’s enough to scare you skinny!

It’s smart to take a good look at your relationship with food. There is a difference between eating when you’re hungry and eating when you’re bored, stressed, or emotional. Some of the most common causes of obesity are physical inactivity and overeating, but some causes are more complicated, including genetics, medications, and conditions like hypothyroidism or insulin resistance. Even demographics play a role in obesity. For example, people who live in a city are less likely to have obesity than their rural neighbors, and women are more prone than men to have severe obesity.

Body mass index (BMI) defines an individual’s height-to-weight ratio, and it’s a common starting point for determining whether a person is at a healthy weight. A BMI between 20 and 25 is generally considered normal. Beyond that, there are different risk levels. For example, a BMI of 25 to 29.9 indicates that the individual is overweight; a BMI between 30 and 39.9 indicates obesity. If your BMI is 40 or above, or if you are 100 pounds or more over your ideal body weight, you are considered morbidly obese—the highest risk category. This level of obesity presents serious health risks, interfering with basic functions such as walking or even breathing.

It’s important to remember that, while BMI is a useful tool, it’s only a starting point for identifying obesity. Muscle weighs more than fat, so if you are very athletic, all that extra muscle may put your BMI outside the normal range, even if you are healthy. For older people, the healthiest BMI is between 25 and 27.

Children should not be evaluated with any calculator; their health and weight should be discussed with their primary physician. If you want to find your own BMI, you can click on one of many online calculators or crunch the numbers yourself. Start by multiplying your weight in pounds by 703. Divide that number by your height in inches. Last, divide that answer by your height in inches one more time.

The health risks involved with obesity are numerous, including arthritis (especially in the knees and hips), heart disease, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, diabetes, and even varicose veins. If your heart can’t take on the excess weight, it won’t work as it should. As a result, hypertension can lead to a stroke or damage the heart and kidneys. If your joints are

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bearing extra weight, knees and hips will wear out rapidly, causing pain and inflammation. Extra fat in the tongue and neck area can block your airway, causing sleep apnea. Don’t count out reflux disease, which can happen when too much weight overloads the valve at the top of the stomach. Too much heartburn can even lead to esophageal cancer. Depression, infertility, and even urinary incontinence can be caused by obesity.

The good news is that there are many paths to reversing obesity. Improvements to diet and exercise regimens are always the first line of treatment. More invasive treatment might include one of many types of weight-loss surgery that are known collectively as bariatric surgery. Bariatric surgery may be a good option if your BMI is at least 35 or if you have already developed serious health problems related to obesity.

These surgeries are recommended when changes to diet and exercise haven’t resulted in sufficient weight loss. Gastric bypass, the most common bariatric surgery, changes your digestive system by limiting the size of the stomach, literally slowing down digestion.

This weight-loss surgery includes a permanent reduction in stomach size, and weight loss is usually between 50 to 80 percent of excess body weight within 12 to 18 months. A more extreme option in malabsorptive surgeries (those that restrict nutrients in the small intestine) includes removing some of the digestive tract along with gastric bypass to reduce stomach size.

Lap band surgery is a reversible treatment. A laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (actually an inflatable silicone device) is placed at the top of the stomach, curbing hunger and reducing the physical amount of food you can eat. Patients typically lose one or two pounds per week. The band can be removed when it is no longer needed. Recovery time varies, but it is usually a quicker recovery and shorter hospital stay than with more invasive surgery. If patients follow their doctors’ orders, success rates are high, and the surgery is FDA-approved.

Sleeve gastrectomy is also performed laparoscopically, but this surgery is not reversible.

The stomach is divided vertically and stapled, and up to 85 percent of the stomach is removed. Stomach size reverts to a sleeve-like tube connected to the intestines. The hormone that regulates hunger (ghrelin)

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disappears with the part of the stomach that is removed.

The success rate of this procedure, according to the National Institutes of Health, is “96.1 percent of the patients after 1 year, 95.1 percent after 2 years, 89.5 percent after 3 years, 82.1 percent after 4 years, and 73.3 percent after 5 years.”

Bariatric surgery isn’t a cure-all, and it isn’t for everyone.

An extensive screening process is required before your doctor can consent to surgery. Expect pre-surgical lab tests to prove there is no indication of alcoholism or active drug addiction. A psychiatric exam is usually included. Physical exams may include an abdominal ultrasound, a blood study, cardiac clearance, chest x-ray, echo and electrocardiograms, liver function tests, pulmonary tests, an upper gastrointestinal evaluation, and even a sleep study. Other exams include a screening of general health and, of course, BMI and weight determination. A documented history of weight management under a professional’s supervision of diet and exercise may be required, as well. All of these screenings for physical health and emotional state help determine if you are a good candidate for bariatric surgery, and they are required before medical clearance for surgery is granted.

After surgery, your doctor will recommend some basic healthy lifestyle changes. Follow this prescribed advice, and you’ll likely feel and look like a million bucks. Permanent lifestyle changes like regular exercise and a healthy diet are necessary to make sure your bariatric investment lasts for the long term.

After bariatric surgery, you’ll need to develop a new way of eating. The Mayo Clinic recommends that you eat and drink slowly and keep meals small. It’s also a good idea to drink liquids (plenty of water) in between meals. Chew

your food mindfully and completely before swallowing. Also recommended is a focus on high-protein foods, avoiding foods that contain lots of fat and sugar.

Calorie intake for the first few months after surgery shouldn’t exceed 1,000 calories per day. If that doesn’t sound like much, you’re right—that’s why vitamin and mineral supplements are advised. After six weeks, a normal solid food diet is usually back in the picture. Emotionally, it’s always good to rethink your relationship with food to create healthy eating habits that last a lifetime.

The regimen continues with exercise for at least one hour, four days a week. You’ll need to make fitness a priority and assemble a post-surgery support team. Long-term success doesn’t mean going it alone—talking with others who have been through the same challenges can be great moral support and an opportunity to openly discuss your concerns.

Assemble a health team, too—for example, a therapist who can help with the common problem of emotional eating or a nutritionist to help you stay in tune with your body’s dietary needs. Build muscle mass on your own by walking or regularly going to the gym. If you are new to exercise and need help building a fitness plan with small, reachable goals, consider hiring a personal trainer.

Some slip-ups and weight regain are inevitable, but that’s when your team holds you accountable for long-term weight loss success. Work with your doctor to choose the best bariatric surgery option for you, and tune into your support teams to stay healthy. Stay motivated and rock this healthy new you!

Sources for this article included: ucla.edu, nih.gov, mayoclinic. org, and ama-assn.org. WE

December 2019

21

Out and About

Southeast Community College One of Lincoln’s Best Kept Secrets

By Kit Boesch

Do you ever feel sort of stuck, and you’re not sure why? You have a great family. You live in a nice house. You have two cars that run most of the time. Your “better half” has a fantastic job. Yet, you feel like something might be missing. You feel like you’re just rolling along, not really being challenged. Have you ever thought of going back to school?

To those of us who haven’t been to school in a while, the thought of going back can be daunting.

How much time and money will it take? Who will take care of the kids while I’m in class? Speaking of kids, will I be surrounded by teenagers? The educators at Southeast Community College (SCC) can help you answer these questions and more. They can help you find a course of study that will bring you the challenges you seek. You might also get a boost in your career or get trained in a new career altogether!

Today, nearly 10,000 students navigate numerous different pathways to successful careers through SCC. Like you, these students have the opportunity to work with an academic advisor who can make suggestions about avenues of study or help create a unique path.

SCC can also help with the financial side of

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returning to school. In addition to many scholarship programs, they offer an affordable childcare program for children aged 6 months to 6 years. Parking is free at the 84th Street location. If you are a veteran, check out SCC’s Veteran’s Center, which offers support as well as space for studying and holding meetings.

For many adults, the biggest obstacle to going back to school is time. After all, we only have from morning until night to fit in children, work, errands, dinner, laundry, and yard work…not to mention time with your spouse, coffee with a friend, and five other things I forgot to list. The good news is that SCC can provide a very flexible schedule, including evening classes.

While continuing with the many responsibilities you

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Hospitality program at SCC. Inside the Great Plains Culinary already have, SCC can help you fit in additional education in Institute, students learn the professional side of hospitality, over 60 program areas. We are looking for ways to increase making use of both the demonstration lab and the pastry lab. To female enrollment in these areas. get hands-on experience in service, students serve lunch to the SCC can also open doors to continuing your education public, Monday through Thursday, and serve dinner on certain at a four-year institution. Whether you already have credits Wednesday evenings. Having eaten there myself, I can vouch to transfer or even a finished degree, you can transfer your for the outstanding food as well as SCC credits to many four-year the excellent service. The instructors schools. “The SCC system has clearly know their stuff, and they now adopted semesters rather SCC can also help with the know how to impart that expertise on than quarters, matching most to their students! four-year institutions,” explains financial side of returning to If you’re feeling like you’re stuck Stu Osterthun, Administrative in a rut and are looking for a new Director of Public Information and school. In addition to many challenge, there are many things you Marketing at SCC. This makes it can do to kick yourself back into high even easier to get a head start on a scholarship programs, they gear. If you’re ready to learn something bachelor’s degree. new, go to southeast.edu and browse If you’re interested in learning offer an affordable childcare the course listings. When you’re ready, but not heading toward a program for children aged 6 head over to 84th and O Streets or the degree, check out some of SCC’s Education Square location downtown personal interest classes. Learn months to 6 years. Parking is at 8900 O St., walk under the copper a new language or how to make arches toward the information desk, a stunning floral centerpiece. free at the 84th Street location. and ask to see an academic advisor.

Expand your scrapbooking In the words of the great Mark Twain: skills or take part in a puzzle “The secret of getting ahead is getting tournament. Improve your started.” Get started today at Southeast Community College! financial savvy or your gardening expertise. Brush up on your For more information, call 402-471-3333. SCC also has photography skills, whether you’re a beginner or already a campuses in Beatrice and Milford, and they have Learning skilled photographer.

Centers in several other Nebraska cities. Visit southeast.edu to If you’re a person who loves to cook, throw parties, learn more. WE bake pastries, and entertain, you will love the new Culinary/

December 2019

23

To Your Good Health

Managing Chronic Pain Relieve Pain Without Risking Addiction

By Leslie Byrne

Opioid abuse and addiction have become serious problems in the United States. For years, opioids were widely prescribed and considered an excellent solution for chronic pain sufferers. Now, we know that opioids are highly addictive and should never be the first treatment option. Providers and patients are taking a second look at non-opioid options to manage pain without risking addiction.

Chronic pain is defined as pain every day for three months.

According to a 2016 CDC survey, a staggering 50 million Americans (that’s one out of every five people) suffer from chronic pain. With numbers like that, perhaps we should not be surprised so many have turned to opioids to help control their pain.

The concern with opioids is not that they aren’t effective pain relievers—they often are. The problem is that they change the chemistry of the brain, which can lead to drug addiction. Over time, the dose needs to be increased to continue to control the pain, and this leads to dependence and all the negative trappings that can come with it, up to and including death by overdose. Not everyone who takes opioids will develop an addiction, and not everyone who develops an addiction will overdose, but that’s no help to the 130 people every day who die of an opioid overdose.

Fortunately, many non-opioid options are available for patients who have chronic pain. In fact, many of them have been around

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for a long time and are coming back to the forefront as medical professionals re-evaluate the use of opioids. Doctors may suggest many alternative options to their patients before prescribing opioids to manage pain.

Some common non-drug treatments include light to moderate exercise to improve the flow of blood and oxygen to muscles. A moderate amount of exercise can help people who suffer from lower back pain or arthritis. Applying heat or cold to the sore area can effectively control pain, as well.

Non-addictive medications like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are another common treatment for pain. This class of drugs includes things like ibuprofen. Taken correctly, these medications can effectively relieve pain. Creams or ointments that contain the anesthetic lidocaine may be used, depending on the type of pain.

Since the opioid crisis, acupuncture is often suggested to patients to ease chronic pain, and some states are looking to extend Medicaid to cover acupuncture. Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese treatment in which thin needles are inserted into the skin at specific

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points on the body. Inserting the needles at these specific points is thought to correct imbalances in the flow of energy in the body, called qi (pronounced “chee”). It is believed to decrease inflammation and is often suggested as arthritis treatment.

Regular treatments are most effective, and it should only be done by a certified acupuncturist. Don’t worry if you can’t find an acupuncturist in your community—many chiropractors have taken additional training to obtain the required certification and are happy to offer this treatment.

Biofeedback therapy is another nonpharmaceutical option for chronic pain.

During a biofeedback session, electrodes are attached to the patient’s skin and monitored by a technician, who can identify when the patient’s pain levels are waxing and waning.

Since pain can be monitored visually, patients can learn to control things like muscle tension to help with relaxation. It is a good option for pregnant women, since there is no medication involved, and can be very effective for pain that is related to physical tension (like headaches or neck pain).

Less conventional pain treatments might include Botox injections to paralyze muscles, aromatherapy to reduce anxiety, or hypnosis to relax and to alter the perception of pain. CBD oil, from the cannabis plant, is being used to relieve pain and inflammation.

Though research about CBD oil for pain management is promising, most CBD products are not FDA-approved. Since they are not regulated for purity and dosage, it is important to work with a reputable source.

Even with the risk of addiction, there are times when opioids are the best option to control pain. These cases should be closely supervised by a physician or a pain management specialist. Pain management is a fast-growing medical specialty that takes a multidisciplinary approach to treating all kinds of pain and is usually done in a clinic or office environment.

If someone becomes addicted to pain medications, a medically supervised detox is needed. A drug called Suboxone is often used during the withdrawal phase to alleviate opioid withdrawal symptoms. The dose is gradually reduced until the patient no longer needs the medication.

Pain management may not be simple, but it’s worth the effort to live a life with less pain. Work with your physician to find the therapies that works best for you.

Sources for this article included: clevelandclinic.org, healthline.com, medicalnewstoday.com, health.harvard.edu, ghr.nlm.nih.gov, and mayoclinic.org. WE

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Healthy Living

Heartland Surgical at Pine Lake Behavioral Health Practical, Personalized Prescriptions

By Jodi Fuson

At the start of 2019, Shayna Fox recalls, bariatric surgery wasn’t even on her radar. Then, the 30-year-old, former college volleyball athlete talked to Dr. Richard Fermelia, a general surgeon who has specialized in bariatric surgery and obesity medicine since 2004. He helped Shayna see the facts without fat-shaming her, she says. He explained that everyone’s body has a weight set point that it tries to maintain. Restricting calories doesn’t work for the long term, Dr. Fermelia says. “You can have initial success for a while, and then metabolic centers in your brain start to take control.” According to Dr. Fermelia, Shayna has a genetically abnormal set point.

All of this rang true for Shayna, who had been fighting a losing battle with yo-yo dieting and weight loss drugs. “My whole family is overweight,” she shares. “It wasn’t that I wasn’t trying. I was hindered by something I had little control over.” She ultimately decided that bariatric surgery was her best option for living a long, healthy life and raising her three children.

Obesity puts people at risk for other metabolicrelated conditions, like hypertension, sleep apnea, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. After badly herniating a disc two years ago in a fall, Shayna’s weight increased to 383 pounds. Back pain and her orthopedic surgeon’s reluctance to operate at Shayna’s weight helped tip the scales toward surgery.

Shayna opted for the gastric sleeve procedure, where two thirds of the stomach is removed, leaving a bananasized tube that will not stretch over time. The surgery offers effective long-term weight loss by restricting the amount of food the stomach can hold and resetting the metabolism. “It is a tool that you can use, if you use it correctly, to lose weight,” Shayna explains.

“I need to make sure what I put in my body is for fuel, not fun,” she continues. That means 90 grams of protein a day, only 2 and a half ounces at a time. “I don’t regret it for a second, but it’s something I will have to work on for the rest of my life.” One of the immediate changes that she noticed was fitting into her seat at a hockey game.

At 49 days after surgery, Shayna had lost 44 pounds.

“Dr. Fermelia has been supportive the whole way,” says Shayna. “It was about making sure I was healthy.”

Before bariatric surgery is approved, surgical candidates must undergo a psychological evaluation.

Dr. Fermelia works closely with Dr. Lisa Jones at Pine Lake Behavioral Health to get the evaluations completed. He relocated his Heartland Surgical practice to Pine Lake Behavioral Health, one of the largest private mental health and substance use partnerships serving southeastern Nebraska, to achieve the best

26

comprehensive care for his weight loss patients. “We make sure they’re medically ready,” he says. Dr. Fermelia’s surgery patients typically weigh between 250 and 350 pounds and must have a body mass index of 35 or higher to qualify.

In addition to laparoscopic gastric sleeve procedures, Dr. Fermelia performs laparoscopic gastric bypasses.

Both have been proven to be safe, effective, and durable, he shares, and both change the way gastrointestinal hormones work for the long term and decrease fat mass.

Weight loss surgery will put most (83 percent) patients with diabetes in remission, Dr. Fermelia says.

Tammy Green, 49, has dieted all her life and tried weight loss drugs, with temporary success. She decided gastric bypass surgery was the way to go because of a family health history of diabetes and weight issues.

Tammy clicked immediately with Dr. Fermelia. “He just is no-nonsense and factual,” she says. “He treats me like we’re working together.”

With the gastric bypass procedure, a small pouch is formed from the upper part of the stomach, bypassing the lower stomach. The small intestine is connected to the pouch in a Y-shaped configuration that changes the way gastrointestinal hormones interact with food and the brain. Weight loss is very rapid the first six months after surgery, averaging 75–100 pounds, and then it plateaus.

Prior to her August 6th surgery, Tammy was taking six different prescriptions; now, she takes just one. By mid-October, she had lost 60 pounds. “I need it to be a lifetime solution,” she says. After surgery, Tammy’s intake is limited. “I’m not hungry, and when I do eat, I get full pretty quickly,” she shares.

Dr. Fermelia will continue to monitor Shayna and Tammy for weight gain every three months for three years so they don’t lose the benefit of their surgeries. “I’m making a commitment to them,” he states, “and they’re making a commitment to me.”

Bariatric surgery is most often covered by insurance providers. Dr. Fermelia has the expertise to investigate coverage and help patients meet surgery precertification criteria. For more information about weight loss options, contact Dr. Fermelia at 402-227-8157 or visit heartlandsurg.com. WE

Dr. Richard Fermelia

www.womensedition.com

December 2019

27

Home Works

Luxury Hardware Increase Your Home’s Value and Style!

By Anne Yankus

Whether you’re looking to sell your house at a profit or just want to enjoy a little touch of luxury in your space, one of the best returns on investment you can get is with an upgrade to your cabinet and door hardware. This may sound small, but even a simple change to the finishing touches can make all the difference in a room. You’ll get the most for your money by staying on trend, which can vary from state to state or even city to city. Ask your real estate agent what is trending in your area.

There are a lot of different luxury hardware materials out there. Some of the most common are brass, bronze, stainless steel, zinc, pewter, crystal, glass, and stone. Keep in mind that you’ll want to look at solid materials to get the full value of these hardware types. (For example, choose solid brass as opposed to a brass finish on a cheaper core metal.)

Like everything else in life, each material has its pros and cons. Brass has a durable finish, an elegant appearance, and anti-microbial properties.

On the other hand, brass is a softer metal and is vulnerable to tarnish. Bronze is resistant to corrosion and has a unique reddish hue. Despite its resistance, bronze does still require cleaning to prevent green oxidation. Stainless steel is strong and self-healing and does not tarnish, but it shows fingerprints easily. Zinc hardware is a more affordable option but is more brittle than any of the other options mentioned so far and needs to be refinished regularly.

Pewter is a very malleable metal, which allows for unique shapes and custom designs and also develops a patina that does not require cleaning.

Precisely because of its malleability, however, pewter is easy to damage. Crystal hardware can be a gorgeous addition to your home; it comes in varying colors, all with elegant flair. Crystal is also very durable and provides a nice contrast to other fixtures if you want to mix and match. Glass is similarly versatile. It is less expensive than crystal but is more fragile. Lastly, stone can have gorgeous natural variants, is quite sturdy, and doesn’t require much maintenance. However, it is limited to smaller knobs.

Making a comeback lately are some older luxury materials such as copper, weathered nickel, and weathered brass. Copper hardware has been around for a long time but has recently enjoyed a resurgence in farmhouse-style kitchens. Brushed nickel hardware has been popular for the last couple of decades, but weathered nickel and weathered brass are making a comeback in farmhouse or traditional Shakerstyle kitchens.

Some other recent trends have been knobs with antique and eclectic details, as well as mix-and-

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match looks that combine two or more materials.

Owners of older homes sometimes request historical reproductions of the home’s original hardware.

These can be more expensive, especially if they need to be custom-made, but they can be a stunning feature.

Replacing your doorknobs and latches can also be a great investment for your home. Some popular door hardware materials and styles are brushed mixed nickel and bronze, unusual color tones such as oil-rubbed bronze and champagne bronze, stainless steel, brushed and matte combos, black matte, and Venetian bronze.

Of course, style is only half the equation when it comes to door hardware—you also want to consider security for your home. Smart locks are the latest in door technology. These high-tech devices can have a variety of functions, such as wireless or remote locking and unlocking, numeric keypads, mobile support, and eliminating the need for additional keys.

If smart locks aren’t your thing, you can’t go wrong with a tried-and-true deadbolt. Of course, not all deadbolts are made the same. For maximum investment return (and maximum home safety), you’ll definitely want to go for a higher quality deadbolt that is made of hardened steel, and make sure it’s installed at least one inch into the doorjamb.

Whether you’re re-locking your existing door or getting a new door altogether, you need to consider the type of door you’ll have when you’re choosing a deadbolt. Single deadbolts are the best with wooden, metal, and solid core doors; double deadbolts are best if you have glass in your door; and hollow core doors are best without deadbolts.

Upgrading your knobs and pulls to highquality, luxury hardware does much more than add a fresh look to your kitchen or bath. These simple changes can provide an excellent return on investment. The good looks and safety of the latest technology for your doors and locks will bring peace of mind for you and for the next person who buys your home.

Sources for this story include homelight.com, theflooringgirl.com, hgtv.com, and sdmmag.com. WE

www.womensedition.com

December 2019

29

The Market Place

FALL IN LOVE WITH YOUR HAIR Full Service Salon for Men, Women, and Children.

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Partners ’N Hair Walk-ins are always welcome at Partners ‘ N Hair. You are in good hands with the licensed, fun, confident, and experienced stylists.

Whether you need a simple cut or you want an elaborate new style, we can help you decide just the look you are trying to achieve. You can count on service with a smile and consistently great looking results when you choose Partners ‘N Hair for your hair cutting and styling needs.

Look great, feel amazing. Stop in or call 402-483-7376 to make an appointment. Find Partners ‘ N Hair at the corner of 70th and Van Dorn.

Rotary International Rotary is a global network of 1.2 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problemsolvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change. Rotary members believe that we have a shared responsibility to take action on our world’s most persistent issues.

Our 35,000+ clubs work together to: promote peace; fight disease; provide clean water, sanitation, and hygiene; save mothers and children; support education; and grow local economies. With your help, we can make lives better in your community and around the world. Visit www.rotary.org/donate to find out a variety of secure ways to donate.

Eastview Family Dental From the moment you walk through our office doors, we will be focused on your comfort.

From our warm and family-friendly office, to our professional and caring staff, we will ensure that you are completely happy with your oral health and smile.

We know that you work hard to provide for your family. For that reason, we provide a variety of payment options to make it easy for you to obtain the dental care you need. We are open Monday and Wednesday 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and Friday 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

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Trigger Point Release Therapy People who live with muscle pain may find it challenging to find relief with medication because the root cause of their condition isn’t being treated.

Trigger Point Release Therapy addresses the source of the issue, which other techniques may miss. It removes blockages and allows the musculoskeletal system to restore proper function, relieving pain caused by contracted muscle segments.

Sometimes, this process takes a single visit, while in other cases it may require several treatments. Schedule your appointment with me today and let me help relieve your pain.

Franklin’s Treasures and Treats It’s officially Holiday Season! We have so many fun gift ideas and stocking stuffers for all ages! In addition to our normal hours, we will be open on Sundays (December 1, 8, 15, and 22) from Noon to 4 p.m. to give you even more time to shop! We can’t wait to see you!

Meadowlane Shopping Center (where we are located) is hosting a family Holiday Festival on Saturday, December 7th. Come meet Santa and check out some of our awesome neighbor stores!

Check out our Facebook page to keep up with our annual “ 25 Days of Christmas” for gift ideas and a chance to win a $50 gift card each week of December leading up to Christmas! We thank you for shopping local and hope you have a wonderful Holiday Season!

Kitchen Tune-Up Kitchen remodeling is often the most expensive home improvement project, but what if you could get an updated look at a fraction of the cost? You can, with Kitchen Tune-Up. We specialize in turning outdated kitchens into a beautifully updated part of your home.

Re-dooring your cabinets is an affordable option and can save you up to 75% of the cost to replace them with new cabinets. We have unlimited number of door styles, sizes, woods, and colors to choose from. We also offer a wide variety of new pulls and knobs. It’s a quick and easy way to update your kitchen.

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December 2019

31

Income Outcome

Please and Thank You Spread the Words “Beginning today, treat everyone you meet as if they were going to be dead by midnight. Extend to them all the care, kindness, and understanding you can muster, and do it with no thought of any reward. Your life will never be the same again.”—Og Mandino Wow—there’s a goal! When I read this quote for the first time, I realized that it was a wonderful way for me to get back into the habit of respecting everyone in my life, from dear friends to complete strangers.

“Respect is a two-way street; if you want to get it, you’ve got to give it.”—R.G. Risch In the past, I had come to feel as if the act of respecting others had pretty much gone out the window. Everyone was in such a rush. I witnessed drivers cutting people off on the highway. There were constant interruptions when people were speaking. It became common to see others roll their eyes at their spouse, friends, or kids. Voices were raised. Being rude had become everyone’s favorite pastime.

“Replacing rudeness and impatience with the Golden Rule may not change the world, but it will change your world and your relationships.”—Steve Shallenberger

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By Janet Van deWalle

The Golden Rule is really quite a brilliant road map for living our lives: Treat others as you would like others to treat you. Well, that sounds fair, doesn’t it?

“Only I can change my life. No one can do it for me.”

—Carol Burnett What I have realized is that I cannot change that person who is being rude to me, but I can change how I react to rudeness. My new habit of behavior is that when I encounter a person who is being rude to me, I do everything in my power to treat the next person I meet with total respect. Sometimes, there is an “energy hangover” from my last encounter; if I am calm and persistent, the energy does turn around.

“Politeness is a sign of dignity, not subservience.”

—Theodore Roosevelt Remember how our parents taught us to say “please” and “thank you”? I have rediscovered these polite phrases in my language. In the beginning, it felt a little strange, but the responses that I received from the people I said these words to have been well worth my efforts. Now, for me, it has become a habit. Please, give this a try.

Perhaps we can create a kinder, gentler country. Thank you. WE

Kids Comments

www.womensedition.com

Keep Holiday Stress at Bay Prioritize!

The winter holidays are upon us. Do you greet them with anticipation, or with a feeling of dread? Some people find joy in making lists and crossing off tasks as they are completed.

(Proof they’ve accomplished something?) However, long lists can be intimidating. I know people who freak out and convince themselves they’ll never get it all done. Others shrug their shoulders, saying, “Meh…I’ll do what I can and not worry about the rest.” What’s your point of view?

Stress has its purpose—it may be the impetus to get us moving—but it can also have adverse effects on our health.

Sara gets severe headaches and digestive problems when she’s stressed. When her blood pressure rises, she worries, which only raises it more. Jan, on the other hand, relishes being busy. She gives herself deadlines, claiming it’s the only way she can get everything done on time. We all are aware of how debilitating long-term stress can be, even leading to depression, weight gain, and other serious problems. Know yourself.

The easiest way I’ve found to cope with holiday stress is to identify the main cause, be it gifts, budgets, entertaining, decorating, cards, or baking. I make lists and then prioritize. Who do I want to give gifts to? Who must I have gifts for? How much should I spend? Which parties do I have to go to? Which ones do I want to attend? Do I have to entertain? Do I even want to? Do

By Marge Shoemaker, BS, MS

I have to decorate elaborately, or at all? Should I send cards or email greetings? Do I really have to bake?

Regarding gifts, I give my grandsons money and something small, and I take them on an outing when I visit. One year, they thanked me for printing the card holding their money so they could read it. The rest of the family gets something small and a check. Spending time together doesn’t put any of us into debt! There are a few parties that I have to go to, but I choose to entertain when everyone isn’t so busy. I decorate simply unless I’m entertaining or expecting visitors. I’ve pared down my holiday card list significantly, and a local bakery does my baking.

The best thing about prioritizing, besides easing stress, is that it improves my state of mind. I’m generally a pretty positive person and don’t sweat the stuff I can’t change. It’s much easier to enjoy friends when I’m not worried about getting things done.

We go to lunch or get together for a cocktail or coffee. When we do gather, everyone brings something to share; no one is burdened by a lot of preparation.

Look for the positive this holiday season. If you’re making someone else’s holiday a little brighter, it’s worth a little bit of effort…but it’s not worth your health.

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. WE

December 2019

33

Auto Wise

Got Power?

Maintaining Your Vehicle’s Battery

By Brennan Hallock

When cars first began replacing horses as the primary form of transportation on American roads in the early 20th century, they did not come with batteries. Instead, hand cranks were used to start their engines.

This system was quickly replaced by electric batteries, though, which allow us to start our engines with the turn of a key or the press of a button. As electricity becomes more and more essential to our modern vehicles, the battery is becoming more and more important to maintain.

Your vehicle’s battery is essential to starting the engine, of course, but it’s also integral to many other parts of your driving experience, even in a gas-powered vehicle. Your alternator, headlights, dashboard, interior lights, charging functions, air conditioner, radio, and more are powered and maintained by the battery.

Most vehicle batteries last about four to six years, but a number of factors impact the life of your battery. These include how often you drive, what electronics you use in your vehicle, how secure your battery is, your battery’s corrosion, and the weather.

Short or infrequent drives can cause your battery to fail faster because they don’t allow the battery to fully recharge. If you don’t plan to drive your vehicle regularly, it is smart to invest in a portable car battery charger to make sure you don’t end up stranded.

The electronics you use in your vehicle pull their electricity directly from the battery. This is fine while you’re driving because the vehicle is recharging the battery. If your vehicle is idling, you should unplug any electronics and turn off the lights so they don’t drain the battery. This is not only because it can leave you stranded. Allowing your battery to be drained will force it to work harder and shorten its lifespan.

A battery’s life can be shortened if it is not securely fastened under the hood—batteries that shake and vibrate may end up with internal damage and short circuits. Check your battery terminal regularly to make sure it is secure, especially if you drive on bumpy roads such as gravel or dirt.

Corrosion on your vehicle’s battery terminals is common, especially with older vehicles, and can cause a bad connection that harms your battery life. Luckily, it’s easy to clean: Dip

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34

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www.womensedition.com

a toothbrush in baking soda and water and then scrub the terminals. Spray them clean with cold water and wipe them off with a dry rag.

The weather is the biggest factor affecting your battery’s lifespan. In extremely hot temperatures, the fluid in the battery can evaporate, damaging the internal structure and limiting its ability to hold a charge. If you notice a rotten egg (sulphur) smell coming from your battery, this is usually the cause. You can’t control the weather, but you can keep your car cooler by parking in a garage or out of direct sunlight.

Cold temperatures are also damaging because they reduce the solution’s ability to transfer full power (this is why it can be hard to start a vehicle in the winter). One way to fight this problem is to buy a battery heater.

When purchasing a vehicle battery, you have a few choices.

These choices include lead-acid, lithium metal or lithium ion, and deep cycle.

Lead-acid are the most common and affordable batteries and have been around the longest. They can be used in nearly all vehicles and have an average lifespan. Valve-regulated deep-acid (VRLA) batteries are the most modern version of these; they are lower maintenance and more durable.

Lithium batteries are some of the most advanced on the market, and they tend to be more expensive. The lithium ion is rechargeable; it’s what you will normally find in electric vehicles.

Deep cycle batteries offer longer, more sustained power, which is why they are used for marine vehicles or golf carts.

They are also more suited for colder climates, where more reserve cranking power is necessary.

In most vehicles, the battery is located under the front hood, next to the engine, but there is no required location for a vehicle battery. On some vehicles, you may find it under the wheel well, under a floorboard panel, in the rear of the car, or even in the trunk.

No matter where it is located, the manufacturer will have designed it to be accessible in case you need to jump your car. You may have to refer to the owner’s manual, though, to see exactly how this should be done.

You may have to pop off a panel or remove a wheel.

If you keep your battery happy, your whole driving experience will be happier. If you have any questions about your vehicle’s current battery or whether you might need a new one, ask your mechanic.

Sources for this article included: popularmechanics.com, blog. nationwide.com, and knowhow.napaonline.com. WE

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December 2019

35

Positive Perspective

Always Be Humble and Kind Trading Ego for Knowledge Have you ever met someone who has “an ego the size of Montana”? The minute we meet people like this, we can sense that they are all about themselves. They don’t listen well. They don’t give praise to others. They are very much involved in their own lives and no one else’s.

“Ego is false confidence; self-respect is true confidence.”

—Naval Ravikant Self-esteem and self-respect are not the same thing as ego. The difference? People with healthy self-esteem recognize that they have many positive traits, but they also recognize that they are not perfect and will always be looking for ways to learn, grow, and change. People with inflated egos, on the other hand, think that they are better than everyone else. They believe things have to be their way or the highway.

They feel as if they are perfect. They will take other people’s ideas and claim them as their own. They will rarely admit when they are wrong.

“All you need to know and observe in yourself is this: Whenever you feel superior or inferior to anyone, that’s the ego in you.”—Eckhart Tolle

By Janet Van deWalle

“The gulf left by the absence of ego is quickly filled with knowledge.”—Shane Parrish Learning and growing, gaining knowledge about other people’s lives and about treating others with respect, has been a challenge for me. I realized that because I owned my own business, I had become one of those individuals who had an exaggerated sense of self-importance.

“It’s much easier to live with ourselves when we feel superior rather than responsible.”—Anonymous When I read this quote, I had a major “Aha!” moment. It was quite humbling. Looking back on my life, I was always the one who pointed the finger at those who came off as superior to others. When I was having this conversation with my husband, brother, and sister in law, my brother, Tom, said something that I had never heard before: “Instead of pointing the finger, point the thumb.”

I truly do appreciate all that I have learned in the last several years. I am on a quest to fill my gulf with knowledge. I will live by these words:

I’ve taken a good hard look at myself and my own ego. At times, I realized that I was feeling superior to others. At other times, I was feeling very inferior to others. Ego.

“When the dreams you’re dreamin’ come to you/ When the work you put in is realized/ Let yourself feel the pride, but always stay humble and kind.” —Tim McGraw

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