Kyle Pfeifer, M.D. Jeffrey Himmelberg, M.D. Michael Budler, M.D. John Allen, M.D.
It’s Our Anniversary!
It’s time to celebrate—this issue marks the 18th anniversary of Women’s Edition in Lincoln! Back in October of last year, Cassidy Pflanz, the franchisee of this magazine, decided that she wanted to move on to pursue other opportunities. She graciously handed the reigns over to me. We were fortunate enough to “inherit” the Lincoln writers and distributors from Cassidy. This made the transition pretty seamless! I am the original founder of Women’ s Edition in Omaha, almost 32 years ago.
My team in Omaha has always thought of the Lincoln magazine as our “sister” publication. It’s been terrific being able to work here in Lincoln, to meet such wonderful people, and to get to know the city again. My daughter, Carissa, went to college here…back in the day… so I spent quite a lot of time in Lincoln. My daughter is 39 now, so there has been just a little bit of a re-learning curve!
I have learned so much about this community. I love it! I have met so many gracious business owners and Lincoln residents. I have spoken with quite a few of our readers, and I often hear, “I love that magazine!” It makes my heart soar! I’m even getting better about finding my way around town (with a little help from Siri).
We have a great team here in Lincoln. Tiffanie Gregory, our Customer Service Coordinator, works directly with our advertisers, writers, and distributors. She’s great! Tiffanie has a sense of humor that doesn’t ever stop. She teases us all here in Omaha, and we shoot it right back to her. Bridget Wilkinson is our Lincoln Account Executive. I come to Lincoln on a regular basis so that Bridget and I can meet with small businesses that we feel we can help. Bridget is very committed and is doing a great job learning a new business. We appreciate Tiffanie and Bridget tremendously.
We have seen the magazine grow over the last several months and are looking forward to more growth in the future. We so appreciate all of you who pick us up each month, read us, and respond to our advertisers. Our advertisers are the ones who make it possible to publish Women’ s Edition every single month. Thank you to all of our advertisers! We are also so appreciative of our writers and distributors here in Lincoln, as well.
Thank you for your hard work! Last, but not least, I would like to thank Cassidy Pflanz for giving us this opportunity.
Hope you all have a happy Mother’ s Day! See you next month.
Points of Interest
Mother’s Day is getting close! Treat the special women in your life with a new service from Honest to Goodness Massage. Flip to page 31 to read more.
Do you want to rejuvenate your skin in a relaxing atmosphere? Ciao Bella can help! Read more about Ciao Bella and all of their services in our Out and About column on page 24. See the ad on the inside back cover.
Northrup & Associates welcomes Kayla Hunt to the practice! Read more about her in the ad on page 1.
May is Osteoporosis Awareness Month and Women’s Clinic of Lincoln is available for all your testing needs. Find their contact information in the ad on page 11.
Learn how Physicians Weight Loss has a different approach toward helping you get to a healthier you! Find the ad on page 22 and read more about them in our Healthy Living column on page 28.
Planning a wedding or other special event? Consider the beautiful Scottish Rite Masonic Center for your venue. Read more about Scottish Rite in Business Style on page 12. Find their ad on page 19.
Is your child struggling in school? Let Shane at ASL Psychotherapy help the whole family. You can find his ad and additional information on page 8.
Mark your calendars! Cause for Paws has special events this month. See the ad on page 8 for details.
Janet Van deWalle, National Publisher
On the Cover: Joseph Ribkoff
For more information, visit www.josephribkoff.com
Positive Thought of the Month
“Life doesn’t come with a manual, it comes with a mother.”—Unknown
Our children are individuals. No two kids are alike, even when they’re from the same family. Comparing kids isn’t like comparing apples to apples.
Fashion Favorites Are Blooming
How to Mix in the Hot Trends
By Holly Bell
We are all so grateful when we hear those birds singing, announcing the arrival of spring. With longer evenings and warmer temperatures, it’s time to start transitioning your wardrobe. This offers some exciting challenges. It’s fun to mix some of the season’s hot trends with your existing pieces to bring a fresh look to your wardrobe. Luckily, this year’s spring collections are definitely user-friendly when it
If you’re like me, you often want to wear your pretty spring clothing before the temperature fully cooperates. Go ahead and wear that spring dress—just add one of the longer sweaters or cardigans that have been so serviceable throughout the winter. The classic jean jacket is another good choice to throw over a summer frock. It adds a bit of edge and modernity to a summer floral. Classics are the backbone of every woman’ s wardrobe. Fashion expert Jess Cartner-Morley notes that fashion trends used to last mere months, while today’ s fashion consists of “five-year trends.” I love this! It means
comes to mixing it up for innovative looks that are personally you!
Your wardrobe may or may not already include a lot of purple, but Pantone’s color of the year, ultra violet, is surprisingly versatile. Add a springy feel to all your winter grays and blacks by bringing in this color with a top or scarf. As the weather warms, violet pairs perfectly with white for a breezy, fresh-looking summer outfit.
On the spring runway, there was no lack of sheer fabrics and ruffles, though most of us would only wear the sheerest intonations with a great camisole underneath. Beautiful botanical prints and highly saturated hues go organic this season with oversized flowers and leaves. It appears that designers want us to be thoroughly feminine this spring and summer. Best loved are the floaty, sheer dresses, often in floral patterns. These dresses feature an easy cut that skims the body and is sheer comfort. Tassels and fringe are on the comeback trail this year. Adding these fun details into our wardrobes brings a bit of whimsy and sass to our more conservative winter wardrobe.
that many more of our favorite new looks have become classics. For instance, take the statement sleeve. Trumpetflared sleeves were introduced a couple of years ago and are still going strong. Americana and nautical looks have been around for many years, but we still see new versions popping up every year. (You can’t really go wrong with red, white, and blue for summer—always a good investment.)
Glitter is on trend again this summer, along with sequin embellishments and metallic fabrics. It makes sense for this to be on a five-year trend. People will always love to sparkle, and we’ll always want a few pieces of glitter in our wardrobes. Glinting in the summer sun, sequins and metallics offer us a chance to reflect—literally.
We’re probably all familiar with the term “mom jeans” as poking a little fun at the high-waisted, front-pleated denim many women were wearing in the 1980s and early 1990s. This style was supposed to have been worn by wornout moms who didn’t care about fashion but just wanted to be comfortable. The style was considered to be very unflattering to the wearer’s figure. Well, guess what? Mom jeans are back, but they’re better! Modern “mom jeans” feature a high waist with a more flattering flat front. The leg is moderately loose but sleek-cut and looks cute rolled up for summer. Once we get used to wearing these comfy jeans again, I think it will be hard to give them up.
The spring and summer collections of 2018 offer a multitude of exciting and fun possibilities. Working with the classics and separates you already own, start mixing in some of the hot new trends and opening up your mind to fresh ideas. Breathe in the gorgeous colors of the botanical prints and revel in the bright, highly saturated colors. Summer is on its way!
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
For more information, visit www.josephribkoff.com
•
• Do you suffer from
• Do you suffer from gas and bloating?
• Do your joints hurt?
• Are you ready for a healthy change?
TAURUS
April 20–May 20
Happy birthday, Taurus! The shifting of the planets gives you an opportunity to take a break from personal ambitions and career goals and allow yourself time to dream. Mars moves into the Taurus zodiac which improves your energy and enhances your physical capabilities. Be aware that this could cause you to become more aggressive. Overall, your atmosphere will be peaceful. You’ll see an improvement in family environment.
Gemini (May 21–June 20) Your copious amounts of energy will aid you in achieving your professional goals. Notice financial improvements as well, which may be credited to the moon, your money planet.
Cancer (June 21–July 22) This is the time to follow your own path , although cooperation from others will be beneficial in accomplishing your goals. Activities with friends and family will ignite more than usual this month.
Leo (July 23–Aug 22) Your independence and free will is becoming stronger every day. Slowly but surely , things are moving your way. Your accomplishments will seem effortless.
Virgo (Aug 23–Sep 22) To meet your goals, you will need to adjust to other people around you. Allow things to happen! Try to go with the flow and accept the results with equanimity.
Libra (Sep 23–Oct 22) This month is about cleansing your mind and body. Free yourself of all unwanted impurities and toxins. This will prepare your mind for spiritual expansion.
Sagittarius (Nov 22–Dec 22) Your domestic life , along with psychological health , is more significant than your professional life this month. Maintain your health by taking more breaks and engaging in spiritual healing.
Capricorn (Dec 23–Jan 19) Due to the presence of the sun in the House of Fun and Entertainment , life will seem more amusing and thrilling. A new partnership could develop!
Aquarius (Jan 20–Feb 18) This is the ideal time to dream about future career goals and formulate a plan to make them materialize. To make these dreams last , be mindful of social grace and adaptability.
Pisces (Feb 19–Mar 20) Scholarly goals and education are taking up much of your attention this month. Don ’ t forget that personal desires and family matters are just as important. More relaxation may be necessary to find the right balance.
Scorpio (Oct 23–Nov 21) Social activities are vigorous and enjoyable. Use them to enhance your professional growth. WE
Aries (Mar 21–Apr 19) You are mindful of financial prosperity , spirituality , and cleansing your body of impurities this month. Your professional life will be active and enjoyable.
Celebrate Moms, Grads, and Springtime!
By Kate Beiting
Veggie Quiche
Cut up an assortment of fresh vegetables, like mushrooms, zucchini, asparagus, and onions (you will need a total of 1 cup of chopped veggies). Sauté veggies for 2–3 minutes and pour into a premade pie crust. Add 1 cup of shredded cheese (any kind you like). Beat 4 eggs with 1 cup of milk and 1 cup of heavy cream or evaporated milk. Pour the mixture into the pie shell over the veggies. Top with thinly sliced tomatoes, sliced green onions, or both. Bake at 350 degrees for 45–60 minutes, until it does not jiggle. Let sit for 5 minutes before slicing.
Mother’s Day Pancakes with Fresh Strawberry Sauce
For the sauce: Clean, stem, and cut up 2 cups of strawberries. Put berries in a saucepan. Add one-fourth cup of sugar and 3 Tablespoons of orange juice mixed with 1 Tablespoon of cornstarch. Cook over medium heat for 5–6 minutes, until berries are soft and juicy. Set aside to cool. Add a sliced banana, if desired.
For the pancakes: Whisk together 3 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, one-half cup of sugar, one and one-half Tablespoons of baking powder, and one and one-half teaspoons of baking soda. In another bowl, mix together 4 beaten eggs, 1 cup of milk, 1 cup of buttermilk, and 6 Tablespoons of melted butter. Add the dry
mixture to the wet mixture and mix until smooth. Cook on a hot griddle, flipping when the bubbles in the batter pop. Serve with sauce.
Glorious Muffins
Plump two-thirds of a cup of raisins in some hot water. Drain, pat dry, and set aside. Mix together two and one-half cups of flour, three-fourths cup of sugar, one-fourth cup of brown sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking soda, 2 teaspoons of cinnamon, and one-half teaspoon of salt. Add 2 cups of grated carrots, the raisins, 1 grated apple, one-half cup of chopped nuts, and one-third cup of flaked coconut. Mix together 1 cup of vegetable oil, 4 eggs, 2 teaspoons of
VEGGIE QUICHE
vanilla, and one-half teaspoon of fresh lemon juice. Add the wet egg mixture to the dry mixture and stir just until moistened. Fill muffin cups (18 regular or 12 giant). Bake at 350 degrees for 20–25 minutes, until toothpick comes clean.
Chili Lime Chicken
In a large zip-top bag, add one-half cup of flour, 1 Tablespoon of chili powder, one-half teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of garlic or onion powder. Add four thinly sliced (about one-fourth of an inch thick), boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Shake bag to coat chicken. Sauté chicken in 2 Tablespoons of vegetable oil for about 3 minutes on each side, until cooked through. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and the juice from 1 lime. Let cook another minute.
Hot Roast Beef Brunch Sandwiches
Cut two packages of dinner rolls horizontally and place on foillined cookie sheets. Spread mustard on the tops of the rolls and mayonnaise on the bottoms. Lightly coat the bottoms with peach or apricot preserves, along with a few finely chopped walnuts. Top with thinly sliced deli roast beef and thinly sliced Havarti or Provolone cheese. Put the tops of the rolls back on, and brush lightly with melted butter. Sprinkle poppy seeds on top, if desired. Cover with aluminum foil. Bake at 325 degrees for 20–25 minutes.
Southwest
Chicken Casserole
Mix together 1 sliced onion, 2 cans of diced green chilies, 1 large can of enchilada sauce, 2 cups of chicken broth, and 1 cup of sour cream. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Cut or tear up 10 corn tortillas. Begin building layers in the dish—first, pieces of tortilla, then 2 cups of cooked chicken chunks, then 2 cups of grated
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cheese, pouring the liquid mixture over each layer. Layer until finished—the last layer should be sauce. Bake at 250 degrees for 75–90 minutes.
Mom’s Easy and Elegant Shrimp
Melt 1 stick of butter in a 9x13-inch baking dish. Mix in 3 Tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder (or several sliced garlic cloves). Add any other dried spices you desire. Place 1 pound of rinsed shrimp in the baking dish (no need to peel). Top with 3–4 sliced green onions. Bake at 250 degrees for 30 minutes.
Mashed Cauliflower
Steam 1 head of cleaned and cut-up cauliflower until done (about 10 minutes). Mash with a fork. In another bowl, combine 3 ounces of cream cheese with 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese, a few dashes of garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Add the cauliflower and mix well. If necessary, thin the cauliflower with a bit of milk or cream.
The Dump Cake
Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Dump in 1 can of cherry pie filling and one 15-ounce can of crushed pineapple. Stir together. Sprinkle a box of white cake mix (no pudding added) on top. Cube one and onehalf sticks of butter and dot over the cake mix. Bake at 350 degrees for 45–60 minutes. Serve warm, with whipped cream or ice cream.
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.
Dr. Christine Rollman
Scottish Rite Masonic Center
Your Next Event Venue
By Kit Boesch
One of the most beautiful and publicly available facilities in Lincoln, just a stone’s throw from our capital, might surprise you: it’ s the Scottish Rite Masonic Center. After living in Lincoln for almost 40 years, I thought I knew every nook, cranny, and rental location in the city. I could not have been more wrong!
The Scottish Rite of Freemasonry is one of the oldest and largest fraternities in the country , chartered in Lincoln in 1867. Its mission , according to its website , is “ to improve its members and enhance the communities in which they live by teaching and emulating the principles of brotherly love , tolerance , charity , and truth while actively embracing high social , moral , and spiritual values , including fellowship , compassion , and dedication to God , family , and country. ”
The great news for those of us who aren ’ t members is that you don ’ t have to be affiliated with the Scottish Rite in order to make use of their facilities. In fact , there are several reasons why you might want to add the Scottish Rite Masonic Center of Lincoln to your list of potential sites for weddings , conferences , musical performances , and other events.
First of all , the facilities are spacious and beautiful. Throughout the building , you ’ ll find yourself standing on gleaming hardwood floors , surrounded by elegant marble walls. Lincoln architect Ellery Davis designed the neo-classical building , which is striking in its grand scale and its simplicity of geometric forms. The largest room can seat 300–350 people , has an available ceiling projector , and has access to a kitchen and a smaller side room that could easily be used as a bride ’ s room or other preparation area. Another room , with a capacity of 70 people. It is directly adjacent to the kitchen area , making it perfect for a clinic or educational conference. Another very large and beautiful multipurpose room is currently the home of the Boys Choir of Lincoln. They practice and perform there because of the phenomenal acoustics.
One thing that can make or break an event is ease of parking. It ’ s so common to overlook this factor when choosing a venue! The Scottish Rite Masonic Center has plentiful parking adjacent to the building and has a handicapped-accessible entrance.
Another reason to consider renting these facilities is that some of the rent goes toward an incredible charitable cause. The Scottish Rite Foundation helps support RiteCare Speech and Language Clinics of Nebraska , which are located in Lincoln (University of Nebraska campus) , in Omaha (UNMC ’ s MunroeMeyer Institute) , and in Hastings and Kearney. Telepractice technology through the University of
Nebraska at Kearney makes their services available to children and families in western Nebraska communities.
The RiteCare clinics provide evaluation , assessment , and therapy for young children with a variety of speech and language disorders. The Scottish Rite raises funds to pay all the clinicians , to rent the clinic space , and to cover all patient costs. That ’ s right—all services are provided without regard for the family ’ s ability to pay. In fact , since the 1970s , the Scottish Rite Foundation has been America ’ s largest private organization involved with remedying communication disorders in children. Nationally , they have donated over $20 million toward RiteCare Speech and Language services.
The rental fees also help the fraternity support the Lincoln Public Schools with the Scottish Rite Distinguished Teacher of the Year Award. They have given this annual award , along with its $5 , 000 scholarship , for the past 50 years. Last year , Lincoln Public Schools recognized Janelle McKeown , instructional technology coach at Lefler Middle School. “ This is a highlight of the year for Lincoln Public Schools ,” says superintendent Steve Joel. “ This award is about all the things we do in the classroom…an honor of the highest distinction. ”
It is often a daunting task to locate the perfect facilities for your special occasion , at the right price. For many events , you ’ ll want a place that ’ s just the right size , that has the kitchen facilities you ’ ll need , that will make it easy for your guests to park and enter the building , and , of course , that will not charge too much money. You ’ ll find all this and more at the Scottish Rite Masonic Center of Lincoln! As an added bonus , you ’ ll know your money is supporting valuable causes.
The Scottish Rite Masonic Center of Lincoln is located at 332 Centennial Mall South. Scottish Rite is managed by Bruce Wood and office manager Joni Bennett. Learn more at scottishritelincoln.org. To schedule a tour or book a room , simply call Venue , one of Lincoln ’ s finest restaurants—they handle all of the catering and reservations for the facility. You can reach Lisa at 402-499-3608 or online at www. yourvenue.net.
Bruce Wood and Joni Bennett
—Tina S.
—Lauren R.
C.
Something Shiny This Way Comes
A Mother’s Advice
By Sharon Knierim
If you are or ever have been a mother, you’ll easily recognize what a struggle it can be to actually be heard by your own children. Though we feel that they are not often listening and certainly not heeding our warnings or accepting our advice, don’t give up. Something shiny this way comes. If you wait long enough (and I’m talking years here), something
amazing happens when your children have children of their own.
Most grandmothers can tell you that there comes a time , slowly but surely , when our children magically (but oh so unhurriedly) begin to offer counsel and guidance to their own offspring. The first few times you hear it , you may think that your hearing has started to fail or that you have entered into some crazy kind of time warp. Keep your ear to the ground , mothers—isn ’ t that the very same advice you proffered just a few years ago to your own child? Could it be possible? Before you laugh , consider this: Where did you learn these words of wisdom? That ’ s right. You most likely heard them from your very own mother , who probably got the word from her mother before that.
Mother ’ s advice is always good. Mother ’ s intentions are always good. Most of the problem seems to be in the delivery
of this golden information which can sometimes sound like opinion or judgment even if it ’ s not (and definitely when it is). Most often , like any other bit of counsel , mother ’ s advice should be and often is watered down to make it more user-friendly and acceptable.
Of course , the kind of advice no one likes is that which we do not ask for and do not want but seems to come to us , anyway. (Amazingly , much of this unwanted and unsolicited information is correct , at least on some level.) Unwanted advice can turn some of us into amateur rebels as we attempt
to prove that we know what we ’ re doing and that we don ’ t need any help to accomplish what we ’ ve set out to do. This can be painful for both the advisor and advisee. As we all know , and I ’ m including this formerly naive youngster , unwelcome consequences can often be the harvest of not thinking something through before diving in.
Sometimes , it ’ s hard to listen to what is really best for us. Problems can arise when we think that we know better than someone who has already lived through the same situation and needed to make the same or similar decisions that we are currently making. In actuality , receiving this kind of advice is like catching the brass ring. When you think about it , it ’ s very lucky to find someone who is close to us , cares deeply for us , and is willing to share those experiences and the feelings and emotions she has already lived through. Why do we so often turn our backs on this advice , much of which is tendered by Dear Old Mom? It must have something to do with wanting to assert our own independence as we move toward our own adulthood. Ironically , this is one of the most childish things we could do.
Well, anyway, let’s get back to the good part. That’s the part where the mother (that’s you and me) is always right…or is at least hoping to be right most of the time. Just a few days ago, my own grown daughter said to me, “Mom, you were right about so many things.” Naturally, I pretended I didn’t hear her correctly, so I could ask her to please say it again. She did. I have heard her dancing around this subject a few times before, but this time she actually said it out loud to me. In fact, she said it twice! My dear daughter really hit the ball out of the park with the next thing she said. “Mom, one day, I opened my mouth, and you stepped out.” She was really shocked. Aha! She must have been listening after all. If I was right, that means my own mother was right, and so was her mother. It must run in the family. How lucky for us.
As we stop and celebrate Mother’ s Day, try to remember how your mother advised you and what golden advice you offered to your own children. See how much of it is the same! I hope all the mothers and daughters out there enjoy the holiday. One last thing: Dear daughters, the next time you have the chance to offer your mother some advice, go right ahead. She’ll probably love it. WE
Create the Ultimate Kitchen
Combine the Best in Form and Function
By Robyn V. Powell
Years ago, kitchens were hidden in the back of the home and served simple functions: space for meal preparation, cleanup, and storage. Fast forward to 2018, and the kitchen has become the hub of the home. No matter the age of your house, adding a stylish, functional kitchen is one of the best investments you can make. Done well, a kitchen remodel can transform your lifestyle and add value to your home. Understanding the key elements and assembling the right team can make your dream kitchen a reality.
For the past decade, the all-white kitchen has dominated. Simply beautiful and timeless, white kitchens aren’t going away anytime soon. Current trends, however, see breaking up all the white by staining or painting an island. Another way to punch up an all-white canvas is adding a stylish Spanish-style tile backsplash. For something a little more layered, consider gray cabinets. Soft and bold shades of gray add instant sophistication and are showing up in new kitchens everywhere. Cabinets are the backbone of a kitchen. While custom cabinets are the most expensive option, they offer the most creative freedom in terms of style, materials, and finishes. They are a great option for kitchens with an unusual shape or a unique design style. Customizing cabinetry allows for tailored features such as ceilingheight cabinets for added drama and additional storage space. Popular storage options include pull-out trash cans and under-sink drawers for cleaning supplies.
If your current cabinets are still in good shape and you don’t want to change the cabinet layout, you may want to consider a cosmetic refacing. New doors and drawer faces replace the old ones, giving the kitchen a new look without the inconvenience and cost of construction. Refacing options come in a wide variety. Wood veneers come in oak, maple, cherry, and birch and can be stained any color. Plastic laminate veneers are mid-priced, more moisture-resistant than wood, and very durable.
Another growing trend is removing upper cabinets and installing open shelving. This makes the kitchen appear larger and brighter and allows the range hood to become a focal point. A customized range hood in copper or stainless steel sheeting with coordinating strapping and rivets is a great way to create a statement in your kitchen.
A stylish and functional island is often the central feature in
today’s kitchen. Some designs place the island between the kitchen and an adjacent living space, seamlessly connecting the rooms. Other ideas include a kitchen island table that can serve as an extension of the counter or as a place to eat. When equipped with a sink or cooktop, an island doubles as a prep surface and a natural gathering place to keep the cook company!
Granite remains the most popular countertop choice, but man-made options are gaining ground. Non-porous quartz mimics natural stone but is easier to maintain and is resistant to heat, scratches, and stains. Thanks to advancing technology, there are now a multitude of colors and patterns to choose from. Concrete and stainless steel, classic marble, and butcher block are all popular countertop choices to add utility and style to any kitchen.
No longer just an afterthought to countertops, backsplashes are getting the attention they deserve. Ceiling height, metallic or bold colors, large patterns, and graphic prints are all hot trends and offer an opportunity to add visual interest.
While stainless steel and farm sinks remain popular, composite sinks are a growing trend. Made of the same material as countertops, these streamlined sinks create a uniform look and are easy to maintain. For the finishing touch, add a pot filler.
Current kitchen flooring trends are natural wood and stone. Technology has made it possible to achieve these sleek floors with low-maintenance manufactured options that mimic solid hardwood. Vinyl plank waterproof tiles offer the beauty of hardwood with unparalleled durability and are available in rustic, farmhouse, industrial, and contemporary styles.
Hiring the right professionals to help you navigate your kitchen remodel is a wise investment. Creative ideas, cost-cutting solutions, and help avoiding costly mistakes are a few of the benefits. A designer’ s expertise with materials and construction can help you narrow down your options to the ones that best fit your lifestyle and budget.
For help with decorative elements such as color, finishes, or sourcing unusual materials, consider hiring an interior designer. Designers can also create a cohesive aesthetic between your kitchen and the rest of your home. Remodeling your kitchen is a major project, but it can definitely be worth the expense. The right experts can provide the help you need to create the ultimate kitchen.
Sources for this article included: consumerreports.org, nari.org, and hgtv.com.
A Day at the Spa
The Perfect Mother’s Day Treat
By Loretta McCollum
Mother’s Day is here, and it’s an opportunity for us to show our moms how much we care. What better way to express our appreciation for these amazing, selfless women than by treating them to a day of head-to-toe pampering, relaxation, and rejuvenation? A day spa experience provides exactly that.
Most spas offer a full menu of body treatments, facials, and massages. Other services, such as manicures, pedicures, waxing, and even hairstyling and makeup application are standard at many facilities. Multiple package options are available—you can tailor the experience to your mother’s preferences. Some spas even offer food and drink. Can you say massage and merlot, or pedicure and paella? You could even make it a mother-daughter experience and treat yourself, as well.
There’s nothing better than a good massage to relax tense muscles and break up those tight knots. To get the most out of your spa experience, be sure to choose the type of massage that’s right for you. The Swedish massage is a popular choice. It’s a great all-over massage that can be slow and gentle or more forceful and invigorating. In contrast, a deep tissue massage involves applying strong, constant pressure to deeper tissue and muscle structure. This is a
good choice for chronic muscle pain. You could also choose a hot stone massage, where the therapist places heated stones along your spine or in the palm of your hand. The warmth from the stones helps relax tight muscles.
Want a body detox or an allover exfoliation and hydration? Consider a body wrap. A detox wrap draws impurities out of your system and provides your body with extra minerals. First, a body mask containing mud, clay, algae, or seaweed is applied. Then, you ’ re wrapped in plastic and covered with a blanket. The mask stimulates circulation, which helps rid the body of toxins. After 20 minutes, you jump into the shower to rinse off the mask. A hydrating body wrap uses a rich cream or gel to penetrate the skin following an exfoliating body scrub. While your skin soaks up the moisture, you ’re relaxing, all wrapped up in a warm towel. In addition to detoxing and hydrating, different types of body wraps can also tone and tighten
or temporarily boost metabolism.
If you don’t want a wrap but still want some professional exfoliation, consider a relaxing body scrub, instead. A massage therapist rubs the skin with a blend of sea salt, oils, and aromatics. This is followed by a rinse in the shower. A moisturizer may be applied afterward.
Including a facial treatment in a spa day helps us put our best face forward. Basic facials steam and cleanse the pores. Targeted anti-aging facials use alpha hydroxy creams to help skin look smooth and fresh. An antioxidant facial utilizes vitamin A, vitamin E, and beta-carotene to remove pollutants. No matter which option you choose, a facial will cleanse, improve skin tone, moisturize, tighten, and hydrate your skin for a smoother, healthy-looking face.
Hair removal treatments such as waxing can be incorporated into your day spa experience. Razor shaving is like an engraved invitation to a Band-aid festival! Instead, take advantage of a hot wax treatment while you ’re chilling in your comfy spa robe. Waxing removes unwanted hair at the root, leaving you smooth and slowing the regrowth process.
Another popular site for hair removal is the eyebrows. Threading is an ancient practice that removes unwanted hairs by pulling them out at the follicle. It’s less painful than tweezing, and the regrowth process is much slower.
After you’ve been hydrated, massaged, exfoliated, and smoothed, some facilities offer a light lunch and a glass of wine or mineral water, served up in a quiet room with soft music and a soothing waterfall. Then, it’s time to focus on the finishing touches like makeup and nails.
With a makeup makeover, a trained aesthetician chooses shades and colors that best flatter your face and then shows you how to apply them to get the look you’ re going for. Eyelash extensions are popular, and we’re not talking about drugstore false eyelashes. At a day spa, you can choose your lash length and curl style—plus, they’ re professionally applied. The extensions typically last one to two months.
Last but not least, sit back and relax with a drink while a technician trims, files, scrubs, and polishes your nails with your choice of colors. You’ll emerge from the spa looking and feeling like a new woman, ready to conquer the world. Doesn’t that sound like a fantastic gift for the woman who gave you everything? Happy Mother’s Day!
Sources for this article included: beautystyle. com.ru, intothegloss.com, and leaf.tv.
Ciao Bella Med Spa A Personal Experience for Your Appearance
By Michaela Aerts
When it comes to enhancing and improving our physical appearance, there’s no such thing as “one size fits all.” Body image can be quite a vulnerable topic, and it’s hard to know who to trust for advice. Upon entering the Ciao Bella Med Spa, located at 5640 South Street, you ’ll feel an overwhelming sense of comfort, warmth, and welcome. There’s no pressure here, no judgment, no anxiety. You’re surrounded by a team of caring and kind professionals who make you feel like you have been invited into their home.
Erica Lee, the owner of Ciao Bella, had a vision that started in her early 20s while visiting a friend who was stationed with the Navy in Italy. Erica recalls that everyone walked around saying “Ciao, Bella!” The English translation of this phrase is “Hello, Beautiful,” or “Goodbye, Beautiful.” This sentiment really stuck with Erica, even after she came home. “I found it so endearing,” she says. “There is something about being told we are beautiful that brings a smile to our faces
and warms our hearts.” This summer, Erica will be celebrating her 11th year of business, with the same three women who were working with her at the start of this journey. An additional three employees have joined the team since Ciao Bella moved to their new location in 2017.
The vision at Ciao Bella is that every person who comes to visit will be treated as an individual and will find a safe place to explore what will help her become
Owner Erica Lee
her best self. “If you feel good about yourself, you will project that onto others,” Erica points out, “and that is a very good thing.”
Ciao Bella offers many of the services you would expect to find in a day spa, including a nail salon, massages, hair removal, and facials. However, Ciao Bella is also a med spa, which allows them to offer more invasive services, like dermaplaning, chemical peels, permanent cosmetics, acne treatments, and various other skin-related procedures. Ciao Bella also offers injection treatments like Dermal Fillers, Botox, and Kybella. A simple consultation with a member of Ciao Bella’s highly competent staff can help you to explore which package is best for you and your skin.
Dermal fillers are injectables that are used to restore lost volume underneath the skin and smooth out fine lines. They are excellent choices for rejuvenating the face and hands. They can be used to restore volume that has degenerated with age and are often injected where fat loss has caused cheeks to collapse. Fillers can also be used to fill in pockmarks and acne scars, to contour or reshape facial features, to add volume to lips and cheeks, and to reduce nasolabial folds.
movements, it prevents fine lines from developing in the first place. Botox is a popular choice for creating a slimmer-looking profile. It is also a less invasive and less expensive alternative to plastic surgery.
Kybella is the first of its kind in that it is an injectable method for targeting body fat. It is generally used under the chin and works by literally melting the fat. Minimally invasive Kybella injections require very little downtime.
“There is something about being told we are beautiful that brings a smile to our faces and warms our hearts.”
Botox injections work by reducing communication between the nerves and the muscles in the injected area. This relaxes the muscles contracting, which stops wrinkles from forming. Botox can be used to address existing wrinkles and can even help prevent wrinkles—by protecting the skin from repeated muscle
One of Ciao Bella ’ s very satisfied customers is grateful for Erica ’ s strict attention to detail. “ I came in one day to have a chemical peel done , and Erica commented to me about a scar on my face from when I was a child ,” she says. “ She told me I needed to have it looked at by my doctor. I told her it had been there for over 70 years! Erica insisted , so I had my doctor take a look. Sure enough , it was precancerous. I am so grateful for Erica ’ s attention to detail and for really examining my skin as she treats it. ”
At Ciao Bella, the staff members strive to help you feel and look your very best. Come experience the difference for yourself in this safe, comfortable, and private setting. Schedule your consultation and begin your journey to looking and feeling better than ever.
Ciao Bella Med Spa for Women and Men is located at 5640 South Street, in Lincoln. Call or text 402-416-5636 for more information, or find them on Facebook. WE
Revitalize at a Med Spa Affordable and Fast Body and Skin Treatments
By Kylie Gumpert
We could all use a little TLC here and there, especially as we age. Some of us dive into cosmetic procedures and don’t look back. For those of us who want a more conservative approach, a medical spa is an excellent place to explore minimally invasive or noninvasive procedures that are highly effective.
According to the American Med Spa Association, a medical spa (med spa, for short) is a hybrid between a traditional day spa and an aesthetic medical center that offers non-surgical services. Med spas can offer
more aggressive treatments for skin than you would see at a day spa, including chemical peels, more invasive wrinkle treatments, and light therapies. These procedures are often performed or supervised by registered nurses, dermatologists, or physician assistants.
What kinds of treatments do most medical spas offer? Let’s start with the least invasive treatments. Oxygen facials, microdermabrasion, and medical-grade skin care are some of the med spa treatments that aim to stimulate healing, treat acne or acne scarring, reduce pore size, improve circulation, and decrease inflammation.
Oxygen facials, which are good choices for people with sensitive skin, involve several steps. First, the face is cleansed and exfoliated. The aesthetician or medical professional may also help unclog pores. She may apply a mask or moisturizer and then use an airbrush to apply oxygen directly to the face. This helps replenish oxygen levels in the skin, which helps skin look healthier and brighter.
There are two types of microdermabrasion. One type involves a tool that sprays tiny, exfoliating crystals onto the skin. The crystals and dead skin are then sucked up through a small vacuum. A newer approach involves a diamond-tipped wand that is moved across the skin, exfoliating along the way. Either method may cause irritation or redness, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Medical-grade or pharmaceutical skin care products penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin and contain higher amounts of active ingredients. This makes them more powerful than over-the-counter products that are developed to impact just the skin’s surface layer. Products might include a vitamin C serum to help reverse sun damage or a potent topical spot treatment for acne. Some of these products can increase sensitivity to sunlight or cause dryness and irritation. Most of them require a prescription.
More invasive procedures are generally used to treat acne or acne scarring, rejuvenate the skin by stimulating new cell production, and improve the look of wrinkles. Because these treatments could result in bodily harm if administered incorrectly, it’s important to make sure the right person is performing them. You should undergo a medical exam prior to treatment to ensure the treatment is safe for you.
Requirements for who can perform treatments in a medical spa vary by state, so you need to do your
homework on the procedure you plan to have. A general rule is that a medical professional who is at least a registered nurse should perform medical spa treatments that involve a needle, scalpel, or laser.
Advanced acne treatments include red and blue light therapy, photodynamic therapy, and photopneumatic therapy. These therapies all use light to treat stubborn acne.
With red and blue light therapy, the patient lies under a light device for around 20 minutes. This light penetrates the skin’s deeper layers, helping to kill bacteria that cause blemishes and reducing sebum (oil) production. The longterm effectiveness of these treatments is currently being researched.
Photopneumatic therapy, such as Isolaz, is FDAapproved for treating blackheads and whiteheads. Its wand shines intense pulsed light (IPL) to help open pores, while an attached vacuum helps unclog pores and collect oil and dead skin cells. It may cause mild redness afterwards, but it is virtually painless, and patients can immediately resume regular activities.
Photodynamic therapy can help treat cystic acne, one of the trickiest forms to tame. First, a solution that makes skin more sensitive to light is applied to the face and left on for up to 3 hours. Then, blue or red light or, sometimes, more powerful lasers are shone onto the skin for around 20 minutes.
This treatment is painful, and patients need to avoid sunlight for at least two days afterwards. Patients should expect redness, peeling, and itching for up to two weeks. The sebaceous glands sustain damage during this therapy, so be sure to discuss the pros and cons with your dermatologist.
Skin rejuvenation treatments, such as dermabrasion, dermaplaning, and microneedling, help stimulate the body to produce new skin cells. This can improve tone, texture, and fine lines and wrinkles, giving you a refreshed look.
Dermabrasion is used to reduce the visibility of scars and some wrinkling. Treatment involves a qualified professional injecting numbing medicine into different areas of the face, after which your skin will be cleaned. A tool with a high-speed, abrasive brush or wheel will be used to remove irregularities. Dermabrasion is only recommended for those with lighter skin tones, as it can cause discoloration or scarring on darker skin.
Dermaplaning is used to reduce the appearance of acne scarring, as well as to improve skin tone and texture.
A medical professional will use a scalpel to scrape away the topmost layers of skin, smoothing the overall complexion. There is usually little pain, but anesthesia may be used if the patient desires it.
Microneedling can help reduce the signs of aging and improve acne scarring and skin tone. During this treatment, tools like the FDA-approved SkinPen, which contains tiny needles that pierce the skin’ s pores, are used to stimulate the body’s natural healing response. This can cause the skin to tighten, improves texture, is safe on all skin tones, and can be used on other parts of the body.
For wrinkle removal, nothing beats a surgical face lift. However, several less invasive treatments offer real improvement in this area. Such treatments include Botox injections, dermal fillers, the liquid facelift, and chemical peels.
Products like Botox or Dysport are injected into the muscle and block the nerve signals that direct the muscles to contract. These injections result in diminished wrinkling in the treated area. During micro-Botox treatment, Botox is injected into the superficial layer of skin in areas such as the cheeks or chin. This results in pore minimization and tighter, younger-looking skin without affecting the underlying muscle.
Belotero Balance, a dermal filler gel, can help minimize the appearance of stubborn lines or wrinkles around the lips. A medical professional will inject the filler, composed of hyaluronic acid, into these lines or wrinkles to essentially fill in the space beneath them. The filler naturally degrades over time, so results should last about six months.
Filler-like Sculptra is FDA-approved and works by stimulating collagen production in your skin. It takes longer to work than a standard filler, but, since it increases your body’s natural production of collagen, more youthful-looking skin often lasts several months longer.
A liquid face lift utilizes dermal fillers and sometimes Botox to “lift” and revitalize different areas of the face. Filler injections can help decrease bags under the eyes or even lift the jowls. Results often last one or two years.
Chemical peels, which can also be done on the neck and hands, are normally used to reduce fine wrinkles, sun damage, scars, and skin discoloration. There are generally three types: a superficial or light peel, a medium peel, and a deep peel. Chemical peels work best on patients with lighter skin tones.
Increasingly powerful acids are used for each peel. Light peels gently exfoliate the surface layer of the skin. A medium peel also reaches the middle layer of skin, helping to remove damaged skin cells and improving age spots or fine wrinkles. A deep peel more deeply penetrates the middle layer of skin, removing fine lines, freckles, and some scars. The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery notes that any particular patient can only undergo a single deep chemical peel. Recovery time ranges from up to a week for a light peel to around a month for a deep peel. It can also involve taking antiviral medication, using special creams, and avoiding exposure to sunlight.
If you want to get rid of acne scars, improve the look of fine lines and wrinkles, or give your skin an overall revitalization, check out a local med spa. Their medical professionals have great options to help you look and feel younger and more beautiful without going under the knife.
Sources for this article included: americanmedspa.org, today. com, linkedin.com, plasticsurgery.org, webmd.com, asds.net, dermatologyalliancetx.com, belotero.com, sculptraaesthetic.com, americanmedspa.org, facialesthetics.org, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, skinpen.com, acne.org, aad.org, facingacne.com, and liquidfacelifts.org. WE
Banquet Tables
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3 Lounge Areas
Outdoor Patio / Beer Garden
Adjustable Dance Floor
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Cater-In Kitchen
On-site Staff Support & More
Physicians Weight Loss Centers
A New Outlook on Weight Loss
By Kit Boesch
If you’re like me, you know a lot of people who have paid big bucks for opinions and treatments for weight loss, only to return to the same weight battle all over again. Perhaps you’ve even gone through that process yourself! If you’re tired of fighting without seeing results, it’s time to meet Jethro and Nancy Hopkins—a weight loss team with a totally different outlook.
Jethro is the backbone of the two Lincoln locations of Physicians Weight Loss Centers. He has developed seven different research-based weight loss plans and works successfully with people of all ages who are struggling with weight loss. His partner and wife, Nancy, is the general manager of the two sites. Nancy was a program administrator and registered nuclear pharmacy technician for Harris Labs for over 20 years. She utilizes her extensive medical knowledge when overseeing the nursing staff and counselors at the centers.
As Jethro points out, anyone can lose weight. The most frustrating part of weight loss is usually the challenge of maintaining it—of keeping off the weight you ’ve lost. The theory they promote at Physicians
Weight Loss Centers is based on a three-step process, which helps clients slim down while maintaining proper nutrition and lean muscle mass. They provide one-on-one encouragement in a medically focused client plan. Physicians Weight Loss Centers give their clients the power and responsibility to understand their own metabolism, eating behaviors, and ability to exercise in a manner that best fits into their schedules. Their medically based plans include lab work, an EKG, and a physician’s exam before starting the program. The first 16 weeks focus on slimming down and weight loss. During this time, it is not unusual for clients to lose one to three inches and up to 30 pounds. Next comes the calorie adjustment phase,
Owner Jethro Hopkins
followed by a six-month maintenance program involving staff therapists and counselors. It is rare to find customized options, even in a physician-supervised program, that actually guarantee successful results, but that’s just what you’ll find at Physicians Weight Loss Centers.
Even successful weight loss can leave stubborn fat deposits behind. To address these, they offer LipoGenics. This is a noninvasive body contouring procedure that reduces individually targeted fat pockets. With LipoGenics, clients can get the long-lasting results of traditional liposuction without the pain, bruising, and extended recovery period.
Physicians Weight Loss Centers also provide an opportunity to receive vitamin B12 and vitamin B-complex injections. These injections are believed to strengthen the immune system and increase metabolism. Vitamin B12 is an especially important way for pregnant and nursing women to maintain a healthy immune system. More than 100 clients participate in the injection program.
Lincoln often contract Physicians Weight Loss Centers for their employees; research has shown that participation leads to fewer sick days and increased productivity at work.
The cost for one year of service is $595, with an additional $50 per month for products sold through the center. Insurance does not generally cover weight loss programs, though funds from health savings accounts (HSAs) can be used. You still do all of your own food shopping at your local grocery store. Counselors will assist you in menu planning for the best results. Curbing alcohol consumption is a part of all of their programs.
Physicians Weight Loss Centers give their clients the power and responsibility to understand their own metabolism, eating behaviors, and ability to exercise in a manner that best fits into their schedules.
The staff at Physicians Weight Loss Centers serve women and men of all ages. They also help children who are struggling with weight loss issues. Their newest counselor, Abby, works with the parents of children who need help losing weight.
One in every eight of their clients is referred directly by his or her physician. Between the two centers, they are serving approximately 80–150 clients at any one time. Businesses around
In addition to providing a great opportunity for the people of Lincoln to lose weight successfully and improve their overall health, Physicians Weight Loss Centers also give back to the community. Local non-profit agencies receiving their charitable funds this past year included Clinic with a Heart, People’s City Mission, and Friendship Home.
From physical factors and genetics to self-sabotage, there are many things that may deprive us of our chance for a slimmer, healthier body. If you have been struggling with weight loss and you need someone to show you a better way, call Physicians Weight Loss Centers. They can provide a healthy, medically supervised road map for your journey.
The Physicians Weight Loss Centers in Lincoln are located at 5733 South 34th Street, Suite 200, and 2601 Champlain Drive, Suite 200. You can reach them by phone at 402-483-7952 or online at pwlclincoln.com. WE
The Market Place
Frontier Home Medical
At Frontier Home Medical, it is our family helping yours! Frontier is Nebraska’s largest privately owned durable medical equipment supplier. We specialize in mobility solutions and complex rehabilitory wheelchair systems, sleep therapy and treatment, incontinence products, home safety, infant care products and more. Providing the best possible patient experience is our number one focus. Our staff of doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists, and nursing aids understand medical equipment and how it can benefit you and your loved ones. Family owned and operated, Frontier has eight locations across the state of Nebraska. Visit our Lincoln location at 45th and O or call 877-465-0033
Make-A-Wish Foundation of America
Tens of thousands of volunteers, donors, and supporters advance the Make-A-Wish® vision to grant the wish of every child diagnosed with a life-threatening medical condition. In the United States and its territories, on average, a wish is granted every 35 minutes. We believe a wish experience can be a game-changer. This one belief guides us and inspires us to grant wishes that change the lives of the kids we serve.
Make-A-Wish chapters across the United States and its territories serve their communities and have a variety of volunteering needs that are specific to each chapter.
Find your local chapter and visit its website to learn more about volunteering opportunities.
Want to help grant wishes every month? Become a Monthly Wishmaker
Granting wishes to kids with life-threatening medical conditions gives them more than an amazing experience. A wish come true has the power to make kids feel stronger, more courageous, and more determined to overcome their illnesses. A combined 89 percent of doctors, nurses, and health professionals surveyed say they believe a wish experience can influence wish kids’ physical health.
When you make a monthly gift today, you ’ll help Make-A-Wish reach its goal to grant the wish of every eligible child. Monthly Wishmakers are dedicated supporters who make regular monthly gifts and help make a lasting impact on the lives of wish kids and their families. Donate now by visiting wish.org.
Trinity Chiropractic
Jon Wooden said, “Discipline yourself so no one else has to.” This quote spoke to me. Why? Easy; because I can be quite selfish and lack the self-control at times to be disciplined. I want what I want and I want it now! That mentality prevails in our culture and in me and I desire for it not to control me. So how do I do that? I came up with a formula that may help: Selfdiscipline = Intentionality + Consistency + Encouragement. If I am to discipline myself, I have to be intentional & consistent with my thoughts, actions and efforts. But I also need encouragement from others; this journey is not meant to be journeyed alone. Join Trinity on the journey to Stop Suffering & Start Living! To learn more, visit www.trinitychiro.com.
Honest To Goodness Massage Therapy & Wellness
Margarita Foot Bath and Massage! This new service at Honest to Goodness Massage is just what our winter feet need for a little pampering. Giving that extra care and attention to the muscles of your feet and calves and increase your circulation.
After a warm epson salt soak and a gentle salt scrub, a non alcoholic margarita mix is poured over your feet and calves to awaken and refresh the muscles. Finished off with a fabulous 30 minute foot massage. Relaxing and rejuvenation with the thrill and chill of the foot massage of your dreams! Call Leah Buckbee, LMT, at 402-309-3800 or check out the website to see what’s new at www.honest2goodnessmassage.com.
Blown, A Blow Dry Bar
Lincoln’s first blow-dry bar is here to have you feeling beautiful, confident, and fierce! Come alone or with friends, either way its an experience you’ll want to have again and again. Just wash, blow, and go!
At Blown, you will receive an invigorating shampoo, scalp massage, and a professional blow dry style. The blowout takes about 45 minutes to create the style of your dreams and can last up to five days. Whether you are you a busy lady, want to spoil yourself, have a special event to attend, or fun night on the town, we take pride to make your day special.
“My hair looks fantastic when I leave there. It saves me time, product, and hassle. My hair blow outs last for days,” says client Ashley U. Call us at 402-416-8808
You Can Change Your Thoughts Tomorrow Can Be a Better Day
Sometimes I feel as if I’m living in a world that is determined to mess with my mind, mess with my attitude, and mess with my creation on this planet. I am one of the most optimistic people that I know. I consciously talk about what I want—not what “is.” When I talk with others, my goal is to leave them in a better place than before our interaction. On many occasions in my life, I have been told that I live in “la la land.”
“What is reality anyway! It’s nothing but a collective hunch.”
—Jane Wagner
This feeling of being “messed with” often occurs when I make the mistake of actually watching the commercials that come over the airways versus fast-forwarding them on my DVR. If I were to believe what “they” are telling me, I’m destined to get some kind of disease and have to be on medication the rest of my life—however short that life might be! If I’m to believe “them,” I have to make it a point to be afraid all the time. (It doesn’t matter what it is that they are telling me to be afraid of. It changes minute by minute. A pandemic flu; the collapse of our financial system; the “reality” that when I retire, I’ll be financially destitute—or homeless, to boot!)
“Are you a SNIOP? Someone who is Sensitive to the Negative Influence Of Others?” —Zig Ziglar
By Janet Van deWalle
I don’t know about you, but I don’t like being messed with. When I’m being messed with, I very quickly feel like a victim. Feeling like a victim stinks. The good news, though, is this experience inevitably forces me to get a grip on my thoughts. It forces me to make a deliberate choice about what my self-talk is going to be. This is not a bad thing—it’s a good thing. (There’s that optimism rearing its ugly head again!)
Thoughts are very powerful things in our lives. Thoughts help us move through our feelings. Thoughts can help us dig our way out of depression, frustration, irritation, annoyance—thoughts can help us move past those feelings that feel so bad.
“Change your thoughts, and you change your world.”
—Norman Vincent Peale
I don’t like feeling bad. Feeling bad feels bad!
“If if feels good, it’s good; if it feels bad, it’s bad.”
—Abraham/Hicks
We need to give ourselves permission to gently think our way to a better place. We have to realize that we did not get to this negative path in a split second. We need to realize that tomorrow will be another day. A better day.
A Few Words From One Of Our Advertisers:
“Advertising in Women’s Edition has brought our business many qualified and loyal clients throughout the years. The staff at Women’s Edition are professional women and I believe they truly want our business to continue growing in Lincoln and Omaha. The process of creating ads is simple and we are always satisfied with the finished product. Devan and I are often recognized by people who have seen our ads in Women’s Edition magazine. It has been a wise and beneficial investment of our marketing dollars.”
—Jeff & Devan Martin
Lincoln Hypnosis Center and Nebraska Change Works
Trust Yourself to Raise Your Kids
There ’ s No One Right Way to Parent
I’ve received some feedback on my March column about comparing our children. A mom named Lauren says she often finds herself coming out on the short end when comparing her children with those of her friends. “Other people’s kids seem so much better adjusted than mine,” she notes. “I sometimes wonder if I’m doing the right thing.” Lauren isn’t alone in questioning herself. At one time or another, we ’ve all wondered if we’re doing right by our children.
Each of us is an individual product of our own upbringing. Some of us have experienced unique hardships. Through various circumstances, we may be left raising young children by ourselves. Some of us work full time, while others stay at home with their children. Some of us have children dealing with debilitating illnesses or disabilities. Some of us live lives of relative ease and comfort while others struggle to make ends meet every day. We have to make decisions based on what we know.
Children are as unique and individual as their parents. They grow and mature at their own pace. Johnny and Jimmy may be the same age, but their gene pool isn’t the same. Jimmy may be the tallest in his class now, but Johnny may catch up with or even pass him in height when they are adults. Linda and Lou may both love hosting tea parties now, but their social lives may be completely different later on. Bobbie’s family has relocated a lot; Bob’s family has lived in the same house all his life. No two kids, even from the
By Marge Shoemaker, BS, MS
same family, have the same reaction to the same events in their lives.
Comparing our kids to others rarely accomplishes anything positive. We think we’re using comparisons to ease our own anxieties, but we end up increasing our insecurities. We question ourselves. As parents, it’s our job to let the kids make mistakes and learn how to get along, just like we learn from our own mistakes. Allow the kids to follow their own drummers. Let them lead their own lives (with guidance) without the pressure of measuring up to the expectations of others.
What’s my advice to parents who are questioning their childrearing skills? When you’ re unsure, ask the experts, talk to friends and family, and get some advice. Then relax. Trust your intuition. Believe in yourself. You’re doing the best you know how with what you know now. Only through hindsight can we can judge our own actions. We may think now that we should (or could) have done something different in the past, but we didn’t, and we can’t change that.
Our children are individuals. No two kids are alike, even when they’re from the same family. Comparing kids isn’t like comparing apples to apples. Remember, kids are people, too. 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.
Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics
Your Child’s Path to Good Dental Health
By Leslie Byrne
Parents understand that children’s medical needs aren’t the same as adults’ medical needs, so they take their children to a pediatrician—a medical doctor who is trained in caring for children. Did you know that there’s also a specialty in dentistry that focuses exclusively on children’s dental needs? It’s called pedodontics, and it’s something that all parents should consider.
All dentists are trained to care for both children and adults , but pedodontists (also known as pediatric dentists) complete two or three additional years of training after graduating from dental school. During this training, they learn how to handle childhood dental concerns, become experts on how teeth develop, and learn how to handle dental problems caused by long-term thumb-sucking or pacifier use. Their training includes how to talk to children, how to make them feel more comfortable at the office, and how to decrease fears a child may have about seeing the dentist. They study child behavior, psychology, and physical growth, as well as how to provide dental care for children with special needs.
One of the first differences a parent may notice when visiting a pedodontist is how brightly and cheerfully the office is decorated. This is no coincidence—the entire office is designed with kids in mind. Child-sized dental tools are more comfortable in a child’s mouth. The exam chairs are often smaller and may be decorated to interest a child. Many offices have television screens showing cartoons or movies that the child can watch while the dentist works.
Don’t let the inviting decoration and entertaining distractions fool you into thinking this isn’t a serious visit. Pedodontists focus on preventative care and can identify problems early so treatment is easier and can get started promptly.
It’s recommended that children as young as six months visit a pedodontist. Early on, young patients (and their parents) are introduced to healthy habits, like brushing twice a day and flossing. Pedodontists perform regular dental cleanings, repair cavities, and treat children who have had a dental injury from sports or playing. They use the latest preventative treatments and often alert parents when a visit to the orthodontist is likely to be recommended in the future.
Orthodontists specialize in straightening teeth and correcting jaw alignment. Like a pedodontist, an orthodontist completes two or three years of additional training after dental school. Orthodontists treat adults as well as children, but most of their patients are children and teens.
Teeth that are crowded together or spaced too far apart can often be addressed with orthodontic treatment. Orthodontics can also treat over bites, under bites, or cross bites. Heredity often is the reason that someone ’s teeth are crooked or misaligned, but thumb-
sucking or lengthy pacifier use can also cause a child to need braces.
There is no set age at which someone should see an orthodontist. Depending on the issue, some children as young as six should visit an orthodontist. This doesn’t mean they will need braces at that time. It is not uncommon for a child to wear braces when she is as young as ten years old, have them removed, and then wear braces again as a teenager to correct a different issue.
Braces can be worn for different lengths of time, but most children wear them for one to three years. After the braces are removed, children wear a retainer. A retainer is a removable appliance that helps keep teeth in their new position after braces have been removed. (In some cases, a child’ s bite can be corrected with a retainer instead of braces.) It is vital to wear the retainer properly after braces are removed to maintain the new bite. If a child stops wearing her retainer, her teeth can move back—sometimes, far enough that she’ll want braces to correct her teeth again as an adult.
Invisalign is a newer orthodontic device that is a transparent, plastic form placed over the teeth to gently move them. Though Invisalign is more commonly used for adults, an orthodontist may recommend Invisalign instead of full braces for a child, depending on the child’s treatment plan.
Since pedodontists are trained in detecting dental concerns that may require orthodontic care, a pedodontist and an orthodontist can work together to ensure your child’s dental care is the best it can be. In some cases, a pedodontist and an orthodontist may even work together in the same practice to provide stellar continuity of care.
When your child is ready to see a dentist, consider taking her to a pedodontist. She’ll get the dental care she needs in an environment that is welcoming and designed just for kids. It’s a great way to start your child on a path to lifelong dental health.
Sources for this article included: childrenandteendental. com, colgate.com, healthychildren.org, kidshealth.org, and theschulhofcenter.com.
A Few Words From One of Our Advertisers:
“In today’s healthcare world, patients are more engaged and involved in selecting their healthcare providers. Women tend to be the navigator whether that is for their own healthcare or that of a family member. We selected Women’s Edition Magazine as a means to communicate that we would be honored to be their preferred provider of orthopaedic care.“
— Heidi Hergott, Front Office Manager, Lincoln Orthopaedic Center
A Time for Rebirth Getting Back to Happy
Spring is a time of growth, change, and rebirth in nature. This spring, I have made it my intention to have my own sort of rebirth.
“Remember that your natural state is joy.” —Wayne Dyer
I know that how we feel every day is simply a choice. I understand that terrible things can and do happen, but how we respond and what we do is completely up to us. I’ve made a commitment to myself that I am going to start demanding things from my life and myself. I feel, I know, that if I focus my attention on accomplishing these things, I will undoubtedly become a happier person, and in turn, I hope to bring some extra joy and happiness to those around me. So what am I going to demand?
First, I am going to demand that I stop every day to find things in my life to be appreciative of. Last weekend, I told my granddaughters that I am going to call and ask them to tell me three positive things that happened to them at school. I told them I would share my three things from my day, as well. I want them (and myself) to start appreciating the little things in life more and recognizing them. Often times, we skim past the little wins or thoughtful gestures that happen to us every day. I think if every one of us took just a few minutes a day to reflect and pull out those positive moments, we would all start to get more of them.
By Janet Van deWalle
“Being happy doesn’t mean everything is perfect, it means you have decided to look beyond imperfections.”—Unknown
The other major commitment I’m making to myself is to listen to my heart. I’ve noticed over the last six months or so I have really stopped listening to myself. I used to be someone who was decisive and knew what I wanted. Lately, I have felt that I listen to what everyone else wants me to do. This has really taken its toll on me. I literally feel like a different person, someone I neither recognize nor like. I admit it can sometimes be easier to let others tell you what to do, but if you are constantly listening to others you are being disrespectful to your heart. Remember, you are the one who is living your life. You are the one facing the consequences of your choices.
I know there is more I can and will do. For now, my primary intention is to be happy. I challenge each of you to make that your primary intention, as well. Keep a notebook and write a few things down each day that you are appreciative of. Take note of the times you are truly listening to your heart and how those situations turned out.
“Life is short. If there was ever a moment to follow your passion and do something that matters to you, that moment is now.”—Unknown
