All About Women Jan/Feb 2011

2 JAN - FEB 2011 www.aawmag.com

JAN - FEB 2011 3www.aawmag.com


MARKETING CONSULTANTStacey Gibson PRODUCTION / LAYOUT ARTISTRobert Moore

GRAPHIC DESIGNERSRobert Moore, Jennifer Canosa, Robert Hampton, Meleah Petty

CONTRIBUTING WRITERSCorrinne Loucks Assad, Genevieve Austin, Susan Bacot, June W. Bare, Maggie Bishop, Sherry Boone, Heather Young Brandon, Sharon Carlton, Bonnie Church, Heather W. Jordan, Kenneth Kirksey, Kelly Penick, Teri Wiggans.

COPY EDITINGTom Mayer

Any reproduction of news articles, photographs, or advertising artwork is strictly prohibited without permission from management. ©Copyright 2010 A Mountain Times Publication

EDITORSherrie [email protected] ext. 251

FOR ADVERTISING CALL828-264-3612

Cover photo by Katie LangleyFeature photo by Sander Gibson

all about


FeaturesPlanning the Perfect Wedding .............................. pg 14Destination Weddings ......... pg 22

SectionsNews Bits ............................. pg 8Real Estate & Home ............. pg 37All About Biz ......................... pg 38Arts & Entertainment ............ pg 44Beauty & Style ...................... pg 48Health & Fitness ................... pg 49Food & Drink ......................... pg 56

ColumnsHeartfelt Healing ..................pg 24High Country Courtesies .....pg 26The Pet Page .......................pg 40All About Authors ................pg 42Bloom Where You’re Planted ......................pg 43Mom’s World... ....................pg 48

St. Kitts

Snow Pros

Custom Cakes

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Women of the Ski Industry

Creating Memories, One Layer at a Time

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Megan Robertson To Ireland – and Back – With Love

Where the Clock Ticks Quickly

South’s ................................ pg 28All About Men: Male Nurses ........................ pg 34Male Perspective ................. pg 36Balancing Brain Power ........ pg 44


I t’s that time of year again, when our minds contemplate all things new, and for several future brides I know, all things exciting, as they prepare for new life with the ones they love. As we said goodbye to the “old” in 2010 and welcomed the New Year,

for me, it was with great anticipation of wonderful things to come.I love to see a calendar of a new year before me on Jan. 1 – unscathed

by reminders of commitments that lay ahead. By now, some of those dates and appointments that were entered have already been marked through or erased as having occurred or canceled. But, there are 11 more blocks of months that have begun to fill up with reminders.

So much about a calendar dictates who we are, whether by choice or obligation. A blank block is often a good thing; I hope to have several of those reserved just for me in the coming year.

It’s important, as women, that we leave blank spaces on our planners. We need to feel as obligated to ourselves, or more so, as we do to all the others we serve on a regular basis. If we don’t take the time to care for ourselves, we won’t be of much value to anyone else.

In this issue of All About Women, you will read about and hear from women who know the importance of self-protection and preservation through improved health and fitness tips.

You will get a glimpse into just a few of the many women in the area who make great contributions to the local ski industry. I wish we had room to feature them all.

You will read about dreams and success and about love and romance, which lead to the biggest and most important day in the lives of many women.

Yes, it’s time to plan for those summer weddings.Within these pages, you will meet a few of the area’s lovely brides and

hear about their weddings and honeymoons. Hopefully, some of our tips will help with planning your own ceremony.

So, for the “something old, something new,” in our lives, it’s all right here in this publication. We hope you enjoy every word.

Let us hear from you with your ideas, suggestions, feedback and more.It’s All About Women, and that means it’s all about you!

Warm wishes for a wonderful year ahead,

Editor’s Note

Sherrie Norris, [email protected]

Visit aawmag.com to fi nd links and resources for all stories mentioned in this issue.

Something Old, Something New



NEWS BITS & Clips

Women Are Working More, Men Are Working ...

“Women are more likely to be in the labor force than they were 20 years ago, but men in the prime working ages of 20 to 54 are less likely to have jobs. But perhaps the most notable trend is that men and women are both much more likely to keep working than were their parents in what used to be known as the golden years.” Floyd Norris, New York Times.

Dedication Ceremony

The new Hospitality House shelter of Boone is nearing completion and will be dedicated Friday, 1 p.m. on February 4. The new facility is located at 338 Brook Hollow Road in Boone.

16th Annual Hearts of Hospitality Ball

The Hearts of Hospitality House will host its 16th annual fundraising ball on Friday, 6:30 p.m. on February 4 on at the Broyhill Inn and Conference Center on the ASU campus.

Guests will enjoy cocktails, a dinner

buffet, music by Todd Wright Band and a silent auction to benefi t the new homeless shelter. Tickets are $100 and can be acquired by contacting Rose Bridgeman at (828) 264-2733.

13th Annual Blowing Rock Winterfest

Jan 27 – 30 downtown Blowing Rock comes to life with celebrating the fun side of winter with wine auction, chili cook-off, live music, games for all ages, kids’ activities, polar plunge and much more.

Call (800) 295-7851 for more information.

Photo by Rob Moore


There is currently a serious blood shortage in our region, which is a common concern during and following major holidays. There are numerous upcoming opportunities for donors to share the gift of life with those in need, just as Peri Moretz, pictured here, does every chance she gets.

•Thursday, Jan. 27, 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Caldwell Community College, 372 Community College Way, Boone. For an appointment, call Diane at (828) 297-2185.

•Friday. Jan. 28, noon to 4:30 p.m. at Earth Fare, 178 West King Street, Boone. For appointment or more information, contact John Carmichael at the store at (828) 263-8138.

•Sunday. Jan. 30, 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at First Baptist Church, 375 West King Street, Boone. For an appointment call the church at (828) 264-3960.

For information on other upcoming blood drives, contact the Watauga Chapter of the American Red Cross (828) 264-8226.

Give the Gift of Life

Photo by Sherrie Norris


Snow ProsThe High Country would not be

what it is without the ski industry. And, as we’ve learned – and long

suspected – the ski industry would not be what it is without the immense talent and skills of area women.

There are hundreds of incredible females who help make the local ski and snowboard business a huge success. We would love to spotlight each and every one but neither time nor space permits. What we are able to do on these next few pages is introduce just a few of many deserving women from each of our three local ski resorts in hopes that they, and those they represent, realize that they are valued and appreciated for what they bring to the mountain.

Much thanks to our feature writer,

Corrinne Loucks Assad and various resort personnel, for their assistance in compiling information and providing photography for this feature.

Ski Beech Beckons:“Life is good” on the highest ski resort

east of the Rockies located “just up the road” and practically outside our back door. Staff members and avid skiers and snowboarders wouldn’t have their fun anywhere else, according to some of the women we’ve had a chance to interview.

Ashton Waldron, from Bristol, Va., and her bother, Collin, both work in ski patrol; she is very close to her coworkers. “Everyone is really friendly and nice, everyone has your back,” she states. She loves being able to help someone, whether on the slope or off. “I think having female ski patrollers is important. Sometimes it is hard for women who have been injured to

WOMEN OF THE SKI INDUSTRYSnow Pros

Ski patrol to the rescue with dedicated staff members Ashton Waldron left, and Amanda Ohlson, always ready to serve. Photo by Kyle Beckman

Serving as ski patrol helps Liz Lott stay fi t and healthy. Photo by Kyle Beckman

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talk to men. Women can do the job just as well as men can,” she says.

A Winthrop University student currently studying dance education, Ashton is a snowboarder who enjoys honing her skills in any free tine she might have.

Amanda Ohlson, from Abington, Va., has worked at Ski Beech since 2002 as a paid ski patroller. She’s keeping the family tradition alive which started with her father, Mike Ohlson, a ski patroller since Beech fi rst opened.

In her “other life,” Amanda is a Utilization Review Coordinator from Mountain City, Tenn., although she calls Beech her “second home.” Amanda is a “people person,” who is always ready to lend a helping hand, whether on the slopes or elsewhere. The camaraderie of her ski patrol team is something for which she is extremely grateful, knowing it makes a huge difference in what they do.

Snowboard instructor Tammy Berger Gates, has worked at Ski Beech for seven years.

A Florida native, Tammy loves snow and was 16 when she skied for the fi rst time; and she began snowboarding 10 years ago.

“Boarding is very fl uid to me, it is my time to myself. I love the freedom it gives me. I started teaching so others could love it as much as I do,” she says.

She loves seeing the expression on the faces of her students when they realize they’ve ‘got it’ and are actually snowboarding and doing it pretty well.

“I love Beech Mountain. It has given me the opportunity to bring snowboarding to my family and to give my kids

It can’t hurt that snowboard instructor Tammy Berger Gates loves snow, as evidenced by this fun scene with her daughter, Addison. Photo by Kyle Beckman

Continued On Page 12


opportunities I didn’t have as a kid,” she says.

Tammy is “so thankful” for the family atmosphere at Beech. “They say it takes a village – and Beech employees are like family,” she says.

She is quick to emphasize the importance of ski/snowboard lessons. “It makes the overall experience much more pleasant,” she says. “When I started, it was the difference between a stressful experience and an unbelievable memory.”

She has two children, Addison, 5, and Seth 2, and one stepson, Josiah, 9.

Liz Lott (feature photo) is an avid skier from Johnson City, Tenn. A ski patroller for eight years, she, too, followed in the footsteps of her father, Rick, also a ski patroller. Liz loves to ski, she loves the outdoors and the ski industry – especially Beech Mountain. “It has become a second home for my family and me,” she says. Liz loves staying fi t, so working in ski patrol keeps her active, while enabling her to help others.

A long-time employee of Beech Mountain Resort, the multi-talented Tracy Simms, is a snowboarder who also manages the Beech Tree Bar and Grille, at

the base of the mountain. She also works as a broker for Altitude

Realty and loves being a part of the ski industry and the highest resort town east of the Rockies.

Sugar is sweeter with Winston Amman on the slopes:

Winston Ammann has been a volunteer at Sugar Mountain Ski Resort for the last 15 years and

is decribed as “an integral part of Sugar Mountain Resort,” by Kim Jochl, director of marketing and merchandising. “She is currently secretary/treasurer of the ski and snowboard club, a role she takes very seriously,” Kim said. “She organizes everything, including ski/ snowboard practices, event administration and schedule distributions. She ensures memberships are up-to-date, serves as a liaison between the club and resort management; she organizes all club fundraisers and functions, and much more.” “She also hosts the entire ski/snowboard club and their families at her

house once a year. The club functions like a well-oiled machine because of Winston. She does it with a dedicated passion.”

Winston was nearly 40 when she learned to ski, and only after her husband suggested a trip to the North Carolina Mountains – and lessons with a ski instructor – after which she and her family were soon hooked. Family enthusiasm led to their membership and her volunteer participation with

Continued From Page 11

It’s Beech Mountain all the way for Tracy Simms. Photo by Kyle Beckman

Winston Ammann has shared her expertise as a volunteer with Sugar Mountain Resort for 15 years. Photo submitted

SNOW Pros


the Sugar Mountain Ski and Snowboard Foundation, aka, the ski team.

“Watching our young team members begin as eager, but wobbly amateurs, who soon progress to talented young racers, is an experience that never becomes stale. Without exception, these young people – ages 6-18 – develop the twin benefi ts of confi dence and poise that will serve them well all of their lives,” she says.

The camaraderie among the junior racers “is amazing,” as is participation from many of their parents who help by volunteering and traveling to competitions in the Southeast. “The team is very often a big, happy, multi-family band united by the common love of skiing. My only regret about the team is that most folks in our region are not even aware of this program,” she says.

Some of the youngsters develop into “truly expert skiers and gifted competitors, who will go to places like Gore Mountain, Whiteface and Sugarloaf to participate in Eastern Finals or Junior Olympics,” she says.

Winston is all about North Carolina skiing, where the mountaintop experience can be exciting or tranquil, challenging or uncomplicated, and a skier, while not always assured of perfect conditions, can often experience “hero snow.”

“Skiing our High Country is always exhilarating and always fun,” she says.

Winston is married and has two grown children. She and her husband, David, own and operate the Bayou Smokehouse and Grill in Banner Elk.

Women Help Move the Mountain at French-Swiss Ski College:

The winds have shifted and the forecast is in: women are taking their rightful place in the ski

industry.Long-gone are the days of promoting

snow bunnies wearing rabbit trimmed hoods and gracing the slopes on the arm candy of some handsome, debonair character in dark glasses.

In recent years, the ski industry, like many others, has recognized the talents and skills of women who have much more to offer than just a pretty face.

For example, the number of women (currently 36) working at The French-Swiss Ski College at Appalachian Ski Mountain has grown tremendously in recent years, says director Benjamin Marcellin, associated with the school since 1979. Overall, 93 women employed at Appalachian Ski Mountain.

“The French-Swiss Ski College is always looking for women skiers or snowboarders to teach in our programs,” he states, “Safety, fun and learning is what a snow sport is all about. Our ladies on the snow genuinely enjoy working with everyone who desires to learn new skills.”

Women Behind the Scenes at Ski College:

When not on the slope teaching the art of skiing, Rhonda Mueller might be found at the

circular desk near the ticket line, where aspiring, and advanced skiers sign up for lessons. “I love working here. Happy people come here on vacation and I have delightful people to work with on staff,” she states. Also, her daughter (17) teaches the wee snowboarders.

Rhonda and those working the circular desk have a fl air for matching students

and instructors. “We match personalities. Some instructors are more patient with children and beginners, while others enjoy working with advanced skiers,” she says.

It’s all about what the client wants. “Teenagers are looking for someone cool and hip to teach them snowboarding. We have plenty of instructors who fi t that bill, too,” Lanna says.

Ski instructor, Lanna Chandrasuwan, in her 12th year at the school, is also a parole offi cer who loves hitting the slopes on weekends and holidays.

While a student at ASU, she chose a ski class as an elective; within a year, she was working at the Ski College full time.

Lanna is also race team coach for the Jr. High Country Series and an annual volunteer at the Winter Special Olympics. “The athletes know me now and call me by name. We look forward to seeing each other every winter,” she says. Lanna works with all clients, from diffi cult and/or slow learners to spunky or advanced to sled skiers – those unable to stand on skis.

“I love working here. We offer versatile, fl exible instruction and we get to play and get paid,” she says.

Frances Hernandez, a senior at ASU, has been snowboarding since age 7. “I love working with children and am excited to be here,” she says. As a busy middle-school basketball and soccer coach, she’s a perfect fi t as an instructor during ski season.

For 10 years, Susan McKay has been a mainstay on the mountain and wears multiple hats as offi ce manager, and reservationist. “I don’t ski anymore since my children are grown, but I love the industry and working here at the college,” she says.

Most of the female staff volunteers with

Roxanne Thomas, Jenna Cantrell, Sierra Mueller, Lanna Chandrasuwan, Laura Gregory and Nicole Ferren are among the 36 women currently working at The French-Swiss Ski College at Appalachian Ski Mountain. Photo by Corrinne Loucks Assad

Diverse talent and skill are evident in the contributions that these women make to the ski industry: L-R: Rhonda Mueller, Ashley Wallat, Stephanie Pitts, Mary Schmidlin. Photo by Corrinne Loucks Assad


B y C o r r i n n e L o u c k s A s s a d


Continued From Page 13SNOW Pros

the Winter Special Olympics, which has become a much anticipated annual tradition on the mountain.

In 1977, French-Swiss Ski College was chosen to train athletes for the fi rst Special Olympics International Games and then in 1978, the College developed the fi rst Regional Winter Special Olympics. The manual that the school created in 1980 is still used worldwide today, Benjamin says.

The French-Swiss Ski College has been growing steadily since opening its doors during the 1968-69 ski season. Its clients include over 100 college and university groups, U.S. Army Green Beret training groups, Navy Seals, Marines, Secret Service and West Point ski instructors.

To learn more, visit www.skifrench-swiss.com or contact the Swiss-French Ski College at (828) 295-9311.

Planning the perfect wedding usually does not mean waiting until the month before the ceremony to jump into action. Important decisions must be

made well in advance. Dozens of people will become involved in the planning – family, friends, church

staff, fl orist, photographer, caterer, etc. – and it is vital that everyone knows just exactly what to

expect from each other.Many wedding experts – including former brides who know – recommend that

wedding plans, especially those for large events, begin a full year ahead of time.

Below is a recommended step-by-step timetable, particularly

for the bride planning a large wedding, to insure that all

goes well on her big day.

PLANNING

Nine - Twelve Months Prior To The Wedding:• Formally announce engagement• Determine wedding date• Discuss budget• Choose bridal party• Determine style/formality• Begin to compile guest list• Reserve site(s) for ceremony and reception• Meet with clergy or offi ciant • Begin looking at rings

Six - Nine Months Prior:• Plan ceremony details• Decide color scheme• Choose bridal gown and attendants’ attire• Choose caterer; plan reception• Choose fl orist; discuss bouquets/arrangements• Select bakery for cake and discuss preferences (fl avors, tiers, designs)• Line up musicians, photographers, and printers for invitations, etc..• Make honeymoon plans, consulting travel agent if necessary

Four - Six Months Prior:• Finalize guest lists with both families• Order all invitations, RSVP cards, imprinted napkins, wedding favors, etc.• Pay deposits as requested• Shop for mothers’ dresses• Buy wedding rings• Schedule fi ttings for all wedding attire

The Perfect Wedding




Two - Four Months Prior:• Address invitations• Plan rehearsal dinner with groom’s parents• Plan bridesmaids’ luncheon• Review all details with wedding director and/or consultant• Review ceremony schedule with church staff/clergy• Purchase gifts for bridal party

Four - Six Weeks Prior: • Mail invitations• Finalize arrangements for flowers, reception, photography and limousine service, if applicable• Confirm honeymoon/travel plans• Make appointments for health and beauty needs, i.e. physical examination, manicure, hairstyle, etc.• Obtain wedding announcement form from hometown newspaper• Order tuxedoes for groom and male attendants

One - Two Weeks Prior:• Review all details with entire wedding party and those assisting you• Confirm all wedding events and services: rehearsal dinner, church availability, receptionist caterer, florist, photographers, etc.• Delegate last-minute details to trustworthy friend or relative• Pack for honeymoon• Host party for bridesmaids

Remember, this is just a basic outline to help in the planning process. There will be other areas that will require your attention, as well, based upon individual needs, desires,

type of ceremony, etc.

One Day Before The Wedding• Spend uninterrupted time with your fiancé, mother, father and maid of honor (best friend), separately.• Visit briefly with out-of-town guests.• Arrange gown, veil, and shoes, checking to make sure hosiery and necessary cosmetics/accessories are easily accessible.• Enjoy the rehearsal/dinner as the guest of honor that you are. Bask in your moment in the spotlight and remember, this should be the most magical time of your entire life.• Go to bed as early as possible and get a good night’s sleep!


Editors note: Monthly columnist, Heather Young Brandon, gives us a glimpse into the honeymoon she and he husband Roger shared in the exotic Caribbean island of St. Kitts.

R oger and I are not exactly jetsetters, but we do like to travel when given the opportunity. We have a list of places

we would like to visit and are always open to new adventures. Therefore, when it came time to select a locale for our honeymoon, the only criteria was that it not be Boone!

We considered Curaçao, Napa Valley in California, St. Croix and St. Kitts. After much research and review reading, we selected St. Kitts.

St. Kitts and sister island, Nevis, are part of the Leeward Islands or West Indies and are located to the south of the US Virgin Islands. At times British, at times French, the St. Kitts of today is a blend of these infl uences along with the African

cultures brought over by the slaves who worked the sugar cane plantations.

The island is volcanic with lush rainforests and sandy beaches. The Atlantic facing side can be windy. The Caribbean side is calm. And, Green Vervet monkeys are everywhere.

The land remains relatively undeveloped, the people are friendly, the beaches are beautiful, the food is tasty and the beverages are strong. St. Kitts even has a National Cocktail, Ting with a Sting, a blend of a local grapefruit soda called Ting and the local sugar cane liquor, which provides the “sting.”

I would recommend St. Kitts and Nevis to anyone wanting a winter escape. But, be warned

that when you vacation in paradise, the clock keeps ticking the days away.

Day OneRoger and I arrive in St. Kitts around 3

pm on Wednesday, Nov. 17, 2010. I have

my fi rst experience with driving on the left side of the road as the taxi driver delivers us to the Marriott, the only large hotel on the island. We share the cab with a couple from New Jersey, Bill and Stephanie, who we meet standing in line at Customs. We check in, explore the hotel property and settle in our ocean-front room.

We conclude the day with dinner on

B y H e a t h e r B r a n d o n

The Clock Ticks Quickly on

B y H e a t h e r B r a n d o n

The Clock Ticks Quickly onThe Clock Ticks Quickly on

St. Kitts

Hilltop view of St. Kitts, Atlantic side. Photos by Roger and Heather Brandon


North Frigate Bay at Mr. X’s Shiggidy Shack Beach Bar, where we eat with our toes in the sand while watching the ocean. Roger has an excellent jerk chicken; I take the server’s recommendation and order the mahi mahi. Both are served with rice and peas, a salad and a local vegetable du jour. We soon learn that these sides are the standard accompaniment.

Day TwoWe discover that the breakfast buffet

included with our room is massive. I am momentarily blindsided by choices but quickly recover. When my plate begins to resemble the Leaning Tower of Pisa, I remind myself that I have several more days to sample all the goodies.

After lounging on the beach all morning, we decide to check out Friar’s Bay, home of Shipwreck Beach Bar & Restaurant. We have heard that it is a local dive with lots of monkeys. The monkeys do not disappoint and Roger gets what he calls “the best monkey photo – ever!”

Day ThreeBack to North Frigate Bay to explore

what we hear is the best snorkeling on St. Kitts. The beach is deserted because no cruise ships are in port. Lucky us!

On the walk back to the hotel, we pick up the ingredients to make Ting with a

Sting and proceed to have Happy Hour on our balcony.

Day FourRoger and I take a circle island tour

with Bill and Stephanie. Our guide, Reggie, takes us through the capital city of Basseterre and to visit all the sites: Romney Manor, former home of Samuel Jefferson, an ancestor of Thomas Jefferson, and current home to Batik artisans; Brimstone Hill, a British

fortifi cation and World Heritage site; and the Black Rocks lava formation. We also see lots of goats.

We have dinner at Cathy’s on North Frigate Bay. The grilled lobster leaves me speechless. We are surprised when we go to pay and discover that they are not accepting credit cards – today. Roger and I count our cash and come up short. Cathy, herself, sends us on our way telling us to come back and pay another day. She


North Frigate Bay, Caribbean side.


tells Roger, when he offers to leave what cash we are carrying, “Don’t make it a problem!” We proceed to tell everyone we meet to eat at Cathy’s.

Day FiveGreg, of Greg’s Safaris, picks us up early

in the morning for a rainforest hike. Greg is a fi fth-generation Kittitian and is very knowledgeable about the island’s ecology. During the excursion, he points out various unique plants, shows us monkeys in the wild and encourages us to take a dip in a mountain spring swimming hole. Good thing I wore my swimsuit under my clothing.

Later that day, Roger and I return to Cathy’s with cash in hand. We tell more people to eat there.

Day SixWe wake to a rainy day and proceed to

lounge over breakfast, by the pool, in the room, etc.

We decide to make reservations for a “fancy” dinner at Marshall’s, one of the highest-rated restaurants on St. Kitts. The food is good but not any better than what we have had at the beach shanties.

Day SevenRoger and I take the ferry to Nevis and

tour the island. Nevis is the birthplace of Alexander Hamilton, and is home to several plantation hotels: Montpelier, where Princess Diana loved to stay; Golden Rocks, with lovely stonework and lush gardens; and Nesbit Plantation, ranked one of the top 10 hotels in the world.

Continued From page 17St. Kitts

Heather and Roger at the Romney Manor Bell Tower ruins. Photos by Roger and Heather Brandon


Romney Manor Bell Tower

Golden Rocks (above) and island goats.



Roger and I agree that Golden Rocks is one of the most beautiful places we have ever seen. We hope to return one day.

Our tour concludes with lunch and rum punch. The rum punch is served with fresh ground nutmeg on top. Who knew that such a small thing could add such big fl avor!

NevisApproaching Nevis on the ferry / Golden Rocks Plantation hotel. Photos by Roger and Heather Brandon

Wendy of Caribbean Cooks / The feast / Dessert, a fi tting end.

Continued From page 18St. Kitts


Day EightOn our last full day in St. Kitts, we

try to do as little as possible. Roger and I unanimously agree that we should return to Cathy’s for more grilled lobster. Unfortunately, their catch did not come in that day. We instead end up back where we began, at Mr. X’s Shiggidy Shack.

Day NineThe day of our departure has arrived,

but we manage to cram in one more activity – a cooking seminar. Wendy, our hostess and the owner of Caribbean Cooks, shares her knowledge of the history of island culinary traditions and regional ingredients. Roger and I discover the core spices that make jerk – allspice, cloves and thyme – and we sample Wendy’s feast of island specialties including jerk pork, cinnamon plantain chicken, peas and rice, spiced pumpkin and christophine with mango coconut bread pudding for dessert.

We head to the airport with tired bodies, piles of dirty clothes, full memory cards and happy tummies. Roger and I learned a lot and thoroughly enjoyed our trip, and we were happy to be able to slow the constant ticking of time, even if only for a few days!

Brimstone Hill



Destination WeddingsB y S h e r r i e N o r r i s

A Hot New Trend From The Mountains To The Ocean

Bridal parties from all across the southeast and beyond have begun flocking to the mountains in recent years for their destination

weddings. Likewise, mountain girls are taking their ceremonies to points south and many to the coastal areas for seaside services, as is happening in our family this year.

So what if we mothers don’t see our long-held dreams materialize of our sons waiting at our home church altar for his bride? Is it really a big deal if our daughters choose not to walk the red carpet on dad’s arm to meet her anxious groom in a formal church setting?

Destination weddings are fast becoming a new trend in today’s world, lending a bit of anticipation and adventure for all involved.

While some brides choose a more traditional church service in a unique historic district away from home, many are taking a more fun-filled route to hit a popular garden or beach setting, and often in less formal attire.

Listed below are just a few – of many – important tips from wedding experts for the bride dreaming of getting her heels out of her hometown for her special day.

• First of all, choose a location that has special meaning to both you and your future groom.

• As soon as possible, visit the town, its event facilities, wedding vendors, and lodging sources.

• Ask the right questions for the information you need to make the perfect choices.

• Consider all options and prices and ask for references before making any commitments.

• Unless you’re doing a drive-through in Vegas, start researching and planning as soon as possible. Not only do you have to reserve your venue, but if going abroad, fulfilling marriage requirements may take a few months. Some countries require that documents be translated, public notices posted, and residency

requirements fulfilled (ranging from nonexistent to one month).

• Be flexible. In some locales, you may only be able to marry Monday through Friday. Some places do not permit civil (nonreligious) ceremonies. And unless you’re packing your family priest, be open-minded about who officiates your big day.

• Work with a bridal consultant who specializes in destination weddings and/or a wedding planner based in the area where you’ll be married to help you navigate through any red tape. Planners also serve as expert eyes for finding– and overseeing – local vendors.

• Confirm all agreements in writing before you let a single dollar leave your account.

• Give your guests as much advance notice about the wedding as possible: Send out save-the-date cards a minimum of five months in advance for travel and vacation arrangements.

• Ask your travel agent or wedding coordinator about group discounts on air and hotels.

• Reserve a block of rooms at two hotels in different price ranges, considering the fact that not everyone on your guest list might be able to afford luxurious accommodations.

• Establish a wedding website where you can post details and helpful information for out-of-town guests.

• Plan to arrive at your destination a few days before the main event to assure that the paperwork is processed and to nail down any last-minute details.

Sources:Destination.weddings.comWeddingchannel.com

Photos by Sander and Stacey Gibson


Would you like to have more energy for the coming year, month, week or even a day?

One of the many ways to boost your energy is by honoring yourself and at the same time honoring the “divine” within. If we think about or even share with others derogatory messages like, “I am fat,” or “I am poor at budgeting money,” those messages are based on past perceptions about ourselves, which are no longer relevant now in this moment.

Those negative thoughts decrease our energy level and weaken us. To boost our energy it is beneficial to gift ourselves with only positive thoughts about ourselves and others. Each moment is a new moment and we can begin each one with a new way of seeing ourselves.

Another way to lose energy or become weaker is to obsess about the what, why and how of every thought and action. Many people have difficulty sleeping at night or focusing during the day because they are mulling over something that already occurred and dwelling on the “‘what ifs’.”

Again, it brings forth the past and does not allow a person to enjoy the present moment or be ready for the next moment. It’s like a moment lost in time.

All those moments, where one might be dwelling in the past, can add up to a lifetime where life slips by and you wonder where it went. Acceptance of each and every moment without judgment is a way to circumvent this loss of energy.

Believing you are a victim in life also weakens you. Thoughts like, “Nobody pays attention to me; I must be invisible,” or “Nobody understands me” fall into the

HEARTFELT Healing

New Perceptions, New Energy for the New Year

B y T e r i W i g g a n s


category of feeling sorry for yourself or believing you are a victim. The opposite side of this coin is putting someone else on a pedestal and believing they are greater than you. Either perception does not serve you or anyone else.

Our day has come to share ourselves in a way that honors our beauty, power and gifts. As we honor ourselves, our higher energy radiates outward and invites others to do the same. A universal law states, “Like attracts like.” We will attract those people into our lives that have similar energy.

I have recently witnessed a dear friend of mine shift her perception from one of being a victim of a dysfunctional family filled with abuse and fear to a person who no longer dwells on the ‘what ifs’ in life, the sadness she experienced as a child or the fear of being with other people because of how they might treat her based on her past experience. She has turned her focus on accepting each moment as it comes, enjoying people immensely, laughing spontaneously and affirming her ‘light’ as she radiates it out into the world.

Seeing others finding their light within and sharing it with others brings a joy to my heart. I am so blessed to know so many who are shining.

Teri Wiggans loves to witness people blossoming at the Heartfelt Healing Center, (828) 264-4443.

Room by Room

We spend January 1 walking through our

lives, room by room, drawing up a list of

work to be done, cracks to be patched.

Maybe this year, to balance the list, we

ought to walk through rooms of our lives

... not looking for flaws, but for potential.

— Ellen Goodman


Conflict and trials are a natural part of life. Successful personal and business relationships require

all parties to adjust to life situations, to learn and to grow through challenges or difficulties. Because individuals bring different personalities, experiences and perspectives to interactions, the need to communicate respectfully and negotiate fairly is a vital skill for negotiating win-win solutions.

Webster’s Dictionary defines compromise as, “a settlement in which each side gives up some demands or makes concessions;” and “an adjustment of opposing principles, systems, etc. by modifying some aspects of each.”

The objective of compromise is the satisfaction of all parties, or at the least, an acceptable decision with which all involved can proceed. Some differences of opinion can be easily resolved: choices of where to eat dinner or which movie to watch on Friday evening, for example. However, when larger controversies affect jobs, relationships or lives, extra effort should be exerted to protect everyone’s interests. The following steps are recommended to assist in creative, cooperative compromise:

• Listen. Listening and being empathetic to each party’s views conveys respect for others.

• Express yourself. Communicate feelings and opinions thoroughly without over emotionalizing. Avoid degrading others or their opinions.

HIGH COUNTRY Courtesies

B y S h a r o n C a r l t o n

The Etiquette of Compromise

• Adjust Attitudes. Recognize that no one knows everything. Be willing to learn; be open to change. Determine to proceed with the mutual benefit of all as the highest priority.

• Analyze. Work together as a team in evaluating available options.

• Decide. Choose the options that are most beneficial for all parties.

‘Compromise is the art of dividing a cake in such a way that everyone believes he has the biggest

piece.’ – Ludwig Erhard

Resolving Conflict –

“Compromise, if not the spice

of life, is its solidity. It is what

makes nations great and marriages

happy.” - Phyllis McGinley


Successful collaboration in relationships requires teamwork. When a partner demands team members acquiesce to his/her ways consistently without concern for the other’s feelings or best interest, the relationship suffers. Also, no one should be asked to sacrifice the core of who he is. For example, a person can be asked to adapt for the benefit of others by putting toilet seats down without affecting who the person is. However, asking a painfully shy person to assume a spokesperson role requires the individual to behave contrary to who he is.

Remember, feelings are non-negotiable. Neither right nor wrong, feelings are simply how a person feels. Empathize with others, recognizing their right to their feelings and ideas. Furthermore, understand differing opinions do not necessarily equal right and wrong opinions, merely individual opinions.

Recognizing each person’s individuality and value is the heart of fair, effective compromising and strong leadership. In addition to genuine concern for others, good leadership of a couple, family, team or business requires serving others, putting mutual benefit above personal desires. Putting aside one’s own agenda and exploring other avenues of thought promotes creativity.

Gary Smalley, author of “The DNA of Relationships,” recommends adopting a “No Losers” policy for decision-making, which conveys a deep sense of caring and lets others know they are valued as human beings.

A predetermined plan for a win-win outcome allows participants freedom to bargain with a common vision in sight. Arriving at such a destination necessitates tolerance, flexibility and selflessness on the part of all parties.

We do not get to choose the challenges we face in life; we do choose how we respond to the challenges. Be willing to look at conflict as an opportunity to learn and grow – and compromise for success.

Sharon Carlton, High Country Courtesies ©2010. Sharon Carlton conducts High Country Courtesies customer service workshops and is director of High Country Cotillion, a social education program for youth. She writes and speaks on modern etiquette and life skill topics. Contact her at [email protected]


South’s Specialty Clothiers, a full-service bridal store in the Boone Mall, goes the extra mile for its

brides, to which Shannon Brown Moore easily attests.

“Not only is the shop’s staff professional and honest, but they are also very personable. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience,” she says.

Shannon became the bride of Dr. Todd Moore, last October on a picturesque autumn afternoon atop a rocky cliff on Tater Hill, just west of Boone.

In one of the area’s most unique weddings, the couple exchanged vows in a private ceremony with nature at its best, and serving as a colorful autumn backdrop.

The bride, attired in her custom-made gown from South’s, felt like Cinderella going to the ball. The best thing about it, she’s still living her dream and couldn’t be happier.

Describing herself as a “one-stop shopper,” Shannon was sure she could fi nd what she wanted at South’s.

“The dress I initially picked out was on a mannequin but my sister thought I would look better in one of their halter-style dresses she saw online. She was right. I was amazed at how it all came together in a relatively short amount of time,” she said.

The dress she chose was magically transformed into a custom-made gown, expertly altered from a six 12 to a size six, with the addition of a green sash. “Green is my favorite color. Everything turned out absolutely gorgeous,” she states.

She purchased shoes and jewelry there, too.

“I highly recommend South’s for many reasons. Watching them cater to other customers and juggle so much at one time was amazing. Even under pressure, they never became frustrated one single time, plus, their quality of work is excellent,” she said.

Shannon, along with other brides who fi nd tremendous satisfaction at South’s, has learned that purchasing a wedding gown there comes with numerous perks:


Takes Pride in Its Brides

South’s

Pho

tos

by

Chr

isty

Bro

wn


children born to Jim and Shirley Brown, is a graduate of Watauga High School and Calldwell Community College and is employed as an Occupational Therapy Assistant at Life Care Center of Banner Elk.

Having been acquainted with local dentist Todd Moore, and living within a few short miles of him for a number of years, it was only through a mutual friend that the two were reintroduced last year.

“Todd proposed to me on Aug. 1. We were riding our motorcycles toward

Kentucky; it was a gorgeous day. We pulled off at an overlook and I was just sitting there with the sun glaring in my eyes when all of a sudden, I looked up and saw him with this big shiny ring in his hand. It was so romantic,” she said.

The couple, “seeing no reason to wait,” began making plans quickly, choosing Oct. 9 as their wedding day, the same as Shannon’s sister, Lisa and her husband, Mike.

“Within the week, I was at South’s. I fell in love with my dress and the staff. They pulled it off in record time for me and I just can’t say enough good about them,” she said.

“We had a very small wedding because of the site we chose; we didn’t want to worry about people falling off the side of a cliff. However, we did enjoy having about 100 people at our reception,” she said.

Shannon considers herself, “extremely blessed,” and has settled in well to life on the farm in Zionville with her husband and son, a cow, baby goats, a horse, a donkey and several dogs.

For a stress-free wedding experience, Shannon highly recommends a visit to South’s Specialty Clothiers, located inside the Boone Mall at 1180 Blowing Rock Road Boone, NC 28607 Appointment are recommended for bridal consultations by calling (828) 264-8977.

gown storage, with bag, until the wedding day, two full steams; bridesmaids’ discounts on their dresses with a steam the week of the wedding, at no extra cost.

Alterations are available, with a fee, by appointment only; South’s make the appointment and provides space for the seamstress and bride to meet in the store.

Plus, the groom’s tux is free and with fi ve paid groomsmen tuxedos, the sixth one is also free.

As Shannon experienced, brides are treated with dignity, respect and compassion by a knowledgeable and friendly staff that seemed just as excited about her big day as was she.

“I highly recommend South’s as a one-stop bridal shop for all your wedding needs,” Shannon states.

Though several months have passed since her wedding, Shannon is still reeling from the magic of it all.

Her outdoor ceremony on private property, overlooking the vast valley encompassing the NC/Tennessee state line, was simply perfect, she said, but not without a few challenges.

“I was asked if my son, Connor walked me down the aisle. I had to laugh as I answered, ‘No, he walked me up a cliff,” she said.

To reach the mountaintop oasis, a trail was cut prior for the ceremony. “It took some hard work but it was all worth it,” Shannon said. “The weather was perfect, at 70 degrees, and the fall foliage was breathtaking.” Highlights of her special day included having her brother-in-law perform the ceremony, in the midst of which her son Connor, 11, and her groom, vowed to accept each other as son and father. “It was extremely powerful,” she says.

Additionally, a surprise call came later, at an open reception for family and friends at the Todd Gristmill, from her nephew, serving in the military in Iraq. “And one of the most touching moments was when Connor toasted Todd and me – his mom and new dad – and then asked that everyone bow their heads in a moment of silence to honor those serving in Iraq. We were all crying,” she said.

Her wedding and reception would not have been possible, she said, without the help of her “very talented family.”

Her sister, Lisa, baked and decorated the cake, complete with over 1,000 handmade edible fl owers; her sister, Christy, was the photographer and her mother arranged all the fl owers.

Bandana’s catered the reception “and did an exceptional job,” she says. “They even cut the cake for us and served it as well as poured the wine. They didn’t leave one piece of trash behind and cleaned up everything,” she says.

Having lived most of her life in Watauga County, Shannon is one of six


With LoveStudying abroad was always a desire

of Watauga native Megan Robertson – but who wasn’t sure if she could

stand being far away from her family and friends for an extended time period.

During her senior year at UNC-Asheville, where she was completing her undergraduate studies, her “very loving and generous aunt in San Francisco” offered her the opportunity to fulfi ll her dream. After endless debating on where to go to school, Megan narrowed her choices to two favored locations – Scotland and Ireland. “I started researching both. My

parents visited Cork, Ireland, during the summer of 2005 and returned raving about the people, the beauty of the land and how great the university was in Cork city,” she states.

After much deliberation – between studying in Galway on the west coast of Ireland or in Cork, the southernmost county in Ireland, she decided on University College in Cork. “It is located in a thriving city of about 274,000 people and is the second largest city in the Republic of Ireland to Dublin,” she states.

After much “nervous anticipation,”

To Ireland – and Back –


Megan Robertson Corkery


Megan made her way “across the pond,” flying for the first time on her own and for her first trip to Europe. “I truly had the world before me as a young 21-year-old,” she says.

During her first week in Ireland, she ventured out into city center with another Meghan from America, “to explore what Cork had to offer,” she says. “We happened upon a neat Irish pub called Costigans. The place was packed and for the first time in my life, I was hearing accents and languages from all over the world,” she recalls. “It was, at that moment, that I fell in love with the city of Cork and Ireland. Meghan and I went up to the barman and both ordered Murphy’s, a local Cork stout. We wanted to fit in. We quickly noticed that not many women were drinking stout, so we realized we stood out.” After finding a seat, the duo was approached by an Irish fellow who asked from what part of America they came. “He was a warm and very handsome young Irish guy named Paul Corkery who was sitting with some friends in the pub. We started talking to him and his friends. At the end of the evening we exchanged phone numbers with Paul,” she states.

“For the next month or so, Paul became a good friend to Meghan and me. He showed us the Irish countryside, took us to nearby beaches, and recommended the best restaurants and pubs. He was like our little Irish chauffer.”

After a while, Paul focused his invitations and attention primarily on Megan Robertson, who, did not seem to notice, at first, that she was being singled out. “Meghan said she knew that he fancied me, so it came as no surprise to her.”

Megan and Paul began dating officially two months after meeting. “I had always had an infatuation with Ireland but never anticipated meeting a guy while studying abroad, let alone the man of my dreams,” she states. “We developed a strong friendship and liking towards each other and eventually realized we were falling deeply in love by the end of my time in Ireland.”

The ever dreaded “goodbye” arrived all too quickly that December. Megan says. “By then, we knew we had something special and worth holding on to. We just were not sure how to make such a long distance relationship work,” she says.

Admitting to never being in love before, she was determined to see where things were headed. “We decided to remain in a relationship and to speak via Skype, as often as we could, once I returned to the U.S. for my last semester of college.”

The tearful goodbye at the Cork airport was the hardest thing she ever had to do, Megan says. “Little did I know we would

have to encounter similar tearful airport goodbyes for the next 3½ years,” she states.

Upon returning to school, the couple had “Skype dates” every day. Megan decided to go back for a visit during spring break of her senior year. “After that visit, we knew how strong our love was and that we wanted to pursue our relationship as long as possible.”

Before graduation, she applied for a work permit to return to Ireland. “I obtained the work visa and spent the

summer working two jobs, saving for my big move to Cork,” she states. “I moved there in September and was lucky enough to find a job within two days of arrival.”

The visa was only temporary, forcing her to return home after seven months. “Paul and I had the time of our lives for those seven months. We knew that we could not live without each other,” she states.

For the next year, the two traveled back and forth to each other and maintained the long distance relationship, thanks, in part again, to Skype. “We never went more than three to six months without seeing each other. Being apart from someone you love so deeply was some of the hardest times in our lives,” she states.

The couple was engaged in Ireland on New Year’s Eve “as we rung in 2009,” she

states. “It happened in a little Irish village in Kenmare, County Kerry. Paul and I were there with all of his friends and he pulled me away for a little stroll around midnight. We were crossing a stone bridge that had a little creek below when Paul stopped me and said, ‘It’s nearly midnight.’

Just as I started to give him a New Year’s kiss, he started to get down on one knee. I immediately knew what was happening. I was in shock and overcome with joy and surprise at the same time,”

Megan states. “He asked me to marry him. Right after I said ‘Of course,’ the village sky lit up with fireworks and church bells started ringing. I asked Paul if he had planned it that way but he said, “No,” but it could not have been more perfect if he


Making memories to last a lifetime. Photos by Katie Langley


had. That moment was more magical than I could have ever imagined. We knew it was meant to be,” she says.

Megan returned to the U.S. “on cloud nine” but still saddened that her fi ancé was back in Ireland.

“Paul and I started the green card process that July and began planning a wedding here in the High Country for 6 p.m. on June 12, 2010. After a 3½-year, 3,548 mile long distance relationship, we were fi nally going to be together and never have an ocean separating us again,” she says.

“Trying to be an understanding and loving soon-to-be wife, I gave the OK for Paul and the lads, (groomsmen), to spend

the afternoon watching America beat England in the fi rst round of the World Cup on our wedding day at Six Pence Pub in Blowing Rock.”

After all, she states, “It would not be a true Irish wedding without a little pub action on our wedding day.”

In an effort to make Paul feel more “at home,” the wedding incorporated several Irish themes and traditions, including a bag piper and a lot of Irish music during the service. “The ceremony took place in my lifelong church, Boone United Methodist,” Megan says, “And we celebrated with 225 of our closest friends and family for the fi rst-ever reception in the Summit Trail Solarium of the Plemmons Student Union at Appalachian State University, which allowed us to bring our outdoor wedding indoors with trees and waterfalls surrounding our guests,” she states.

Most of Paul’s family and friends were able to come from Ireland, making it a unique celebration for both families. “We could not have asked for a more perfect wedding day and we feel so blessed to fi nally be living on the same continent,” Megan states.

Megan is currently a graduate student at ASU, pursuing a Master’s degree in College Student Development; Paul is employed in the customer service department at WJ Offi ce in Boone. The coupe resides in Blowing Rock.

For their wedding, the couple chose the following vendors to help make their day the perfect occasion that it was: Did Someone Say Party, ASU Bake Shop, Katie Langley Photography; Elizabeth Hempfl ing and Cheryl Marshbanks, event coordinators, Dana Addison/ Air Haven Limousine, Digital DJs; Sheri Furman/Bless Your Heart; ASU Catering Services; The Village Inns & The Meadowbrook Inn of Blowing Rock.


“I had always had an infatuation with Ireland, but never anticipated meeting a guy while studying abroad, let alone the man of my dreams.”

Megan Robertson Corkery(below) Paul, at right, enjoyed the afternoon of his wedding with his groomsmen in Blowing Rock.

www.aawmag.com JAN - FEB 2011 33


You probably no longer do a double take when you read “RN” on a man’s nametag. Today, nearly

8 percent of registered nurses and almost 10 percent of nursing students are men, and the trend is growing. In the last 30 years, the increase of men in the profession has grown close to 300 percent. Discrimination against men in nursing is not as prevalent as it was 30 years ago. Does prejudice remain for the old reasons, including the concept that a man who chooses the nursing profession is a glorifi ed orderly, a frustrated would-be-physician, or even unmanly?

ER Nurse Overcomes Prejudice

According to Andy Blavatt, well-respected emergency room nurse at Watauga Medical Center, “different prejudices” exist today, indicating more of a “superfi cial prejudice,” particularly among the very young and the elderly. “Where I see a stereotype is when some assume I am a doctor, or ask why I didn’t go on to become one,” he says.

Blavatt did not set out to become a nurse. Early in his engineering studies, he recognized that he lacked passion for that particular pursuit. He received

his fi rst degree in psychology at the University of Wisconsin and went on to theological seminary in Charlotte. Still dissatisfi ed that he wasn’t following his true calling, he recognized his role as a hands-on caregiver. He obtained an associate degree in nursing at Central Piedmont Community College, followed by a Bachelor of Science at Appalachian State University. Although he initially followed in his grandmother’s footsteps as a surgical nurse, he has reached his 10-year milestone in the emergency room.

“ER nursing allows me a window on life and the opportunity to watch people’s

MALE NURSES

Rise Above The

“Stereotype”

All About Men

Andy Blavatt, local emergency room nurse, successfully combines tenderness with strength in his role as a male caregiver. Photo by June W. Bare

B y J u n e W . B a r e


story unfold,” he states. Andy’s traditional view of patient care

is one to be admired. “When nursing care becomes intimate, I feel I should be respectful of the person’s privacy and dignity,” he says. Some healthcare professionals see it differently, and believe the male/female differences should be ignored in the patient/nurse relationship.

Andy is a well-rounded family man, who, along with his wife, homeschools their teenage sons, volunteers at Hope Pregnancy Resource Center and is active in church at Alliance Bible Fellowship. Andy leads two adult small groups and occasionally volunteers with the youth ministry as a teacher, worship leader, and/or small group leader.

Nursing Is Not About Gender

There is no reference to gender in the definition of nursing, according to the International Council of Nurses: “Nursing encompasses autonomous and collaborative care of individuals of all ages, families, groups and communities, sick or well and in all settings. Nursing includes the promotion of health, prevention of illness, and the care of ill, disabled and dying people. Advocacy,

promotion of a safe environment, research, participation in shaping health policy and in patient and health systems management, and education are also key nursing roles.”

Statistics indicate that a man who chooses to be a nurse often delivers healthcare more consistently than his female counterpart, because he is not tied to homemaking and mothering, as are many female nurses. He is likely to advance his career on the job and be more faithful in attendance and performance.

A Man’s Role In History of Nursing

“Nurse,” the Latin of which is nutrire, meaning to nourish, originally denoted a female servant who cared for babies, i.e., a “wet nurse.” Nursing evolved to include a wider field of caring for the sick and wounded. The Bible illustrates nursing in

the story of the Good Samaritan, which was, by all accounts – a man.

In our Western culture, nursing entered convents and monasteries, involving both sexes during the Dark Ages of Europe. Nurses were primarily men during wartimes throughout history up until the early 19th century. A modern counterpart would be the function of medics and corpsmen during twentieth century wars. These men were highly respected by their patients.

From the 17th to the 19th century, nursing earned a bad name as often both women and men were indentured as nurses, as punishment for their crimes or indebtedness. The reputation of obnoxious and drunken behavior of these nurses shadowed the profession until the War Between the States.

Mid 19th- century women, such as Florence Nightingale and Dorothea Dix, developed systematic approaches to good nursing care. Schools for training nurses ushered in today’s complex profession. By 1888, nursing school was available for men, but the percentage of men remained low – until recently. Now with each aspect of nursing presenting almost a profession within a profession, the need for men in the field is growing.


“Where I see a stereotype is when some assume I am a doctor, or ask why I didn’t go on to

become one.”


Mack Mosher veered from his expected career path in engineering to pursue that of a certified registered nurse-anesthetist. Photo submitted

Tenderness And Strength – A Winning Combination

Local resident, Mack Mosher, is a pre-nursing student at Auburn University, with plans to become a certified registered nurse-anesthetist.

“For most of my life I thought that I’d be studying engineering or physics (something math related) in college,” he said. Things changed during his senior year of high school. “It was kind of an out-of-the-blue thing, but I had two different people, within a week, tell me that I should consider being a CRNA. I looked up a job description online and it intrigued me,” Mack said. He shadowed Cindy Vogt, CRNA, for a week, “for an on site look at the profession,” he said, and related well to the role.

Currently, Mack is enrolled in Army ROTC and states that his ultimate goal is the Army’s “Forward Surgical Team.”

Andy Blavatt offers encouraging words to young men who may be considering a nursing career. “If God has gifted you and drawn you to the vocation, go for it and approach it with all the tenderness and strength of your manhood,” he said.


All About Men

MALE NURSES

Your mind has a sense of humor; it loves to play practical jokes on you. Ever notice how it will remind you

of something you need to do, something important, when you’re somewhere where you can do absolutely nothing about it and have no way of jotting down a reminder? Your mind is great at coming up with ideas, but it’s a terrible place to store things you need to remember. The solution to this problem: a Ubiquitous Capture Tool (UCT).

I first read about the UCT a few years ago in David Allen’s ground breaking time management book “Getting Things Done.” The idea is pretty simple: always have on you or near at hand some tool for capturing ideas and “to dos” as they come to you. I’ve tried a number of UCTs over the years. These worked best for me:

A UCT can be as simple as pen and paper, and that’s all many people may need. Stock up on inexpensive pens and 3 x 5-inch index cards or note pads. Place them everywhere in your house so one will always be just a few steps away: kitchen, bedroom, living room, even the bathroom. Keep one out on your desk at your office. Whatever you choose, put

only one note per card or sheet. Listing more than one per card makes it easy to forget you haven’t done all of the things you listed on that card and throw the card out before you’re finished.

For an on-the-go capture tool, use an inexpensive reporter’s notebook that will easily slip in a pocket or purse.

You’ll often be in a situation where jotting down a note on paper would be impractical or unsafe (like when you’re driving). In that case, a small digital voice recorder makes a great UCT.

Smartphones (iPhone or Android) can capture tool both written and voice notes.

However you decide to collect your ideas and to dos, remember that a UCT only works if you have it with you all the time, and you make a point to collect notes from all your locations at least once per day. Once you start using a UCT, you’ll wonder how you got anything done without one.

Kenneth Kirksey is President of Kirksey Consulting LLC, www.kirkseyconsultingllc.com, offering time management and organization coaching for individuals and businesses.

B y K e n n e t h K i r k s e y

The Male Perspective:

Remembering What You Shouldn’t Forget

“It was kind of an out-of-the-blue thing, but I had two different people, within a week,

tell me that I should consider being a

CRNA.”


While stuck in the midst of winter and doing our best to stay warm, it’s hard to imagine gardening.

Most people close down their garden shops until spring, but for the avid green thumbs gardeners, opportunities abound to put down the snow shovels and pick up the clippers. Just don’t leave the gloves behind.

Easy Ways To Brighten Your Corner

Use bright plants, containers and ornamentation to brighten up your garden area in the winter. Amid nature’s gray and brown hues this time of year, sunshine and shadows are integral to successful gardening. Joined by such plants as winterberry, with its thick stands of bright red berries, as well as holly, Jersey Knight, Old Heavy Berry or Croonenbur, your landscape will maintain color for months.

Plant colorful containers and place them near windows so you can see them from inside. Conifers are great in cold climates.

Where plants won’t grow, use colorful objects and ornamentation to brighten the scene. Place a painted wooden lawn chair, a table or even well chosen and rocks placed on the surface of a container, can make for a beautiful scene.

Going Green Indoors

An obvious choice for gardeners here in the mountains is to grow winter plants in a greenhouse; houseplants and windowsill gardens are other choices. Inside gardens work well with just a little

extra consideration, like plenty of lighting and good soil. Equal parts of soil, sand, peat and vermiculite, along with small amounts of lime and phosphates, offer a nutritious base.

Always use warm water or have water at or near room temperature to protect root systems and growth of plants. Whether on a windowsill, or in portable containers, (plastic, clay, wood or ceramic), a southern exposure will provide the most daylight in winter.

A few good choices for indoor containers are herbs such as parsley, basil, sage and rosemary. Carrots, radishes, onions and lettuce are also easy foods to grow indoors.

When growing plants in pots, add a few pebbles to the bottom of the pot to prevent the soil from draining during watering. Select pots with a diameter of at least six inches to provide room for root development and good air circulation.

Before The Freeze

Before the ground freezes each year is a great time to plant bulbs. Bulbs can be the first flowers to bloom in late winter and early spring. Among the best for winter planning include daffodils, day lilies, iris, tulips, and ranunculus.

Winter is also the time to maintain trees such as evergreens and fruit trees. Brush snow from evergreens as soon as possible after a storm, using a broom and upward sweeps to avoid breakage. When pruning large limbs, always undercut first. Do this by cutting the limb from the bottom up, 1/3 of the way and then finish by cutting from the top.

Careful With The Salt

When applying salt to walkways, be careful not to get too close to bushes and shrubs. Consider using sand or sawdust instead to preserve outdoor plants. Avoid heavy traffic on your dormant lawn to prevent breakage and to avoid killing grass. Bring all unused containers in to the shed or basement to prevent breakage from freezing temperatures. If too large to move, turn them upside down to prevent water collecting and freezing. Clean pots before storing, especially the clay pots, by adding one cup each of white vinegar and household bleach to one gallon of warm water; soak the pots. For heavily crusted pots, scrub with a steel wool pad after soaking for 12 hours.

Be Kind To The Birds

Feed birds regularly and make sure they have water. Birds like suet, fruit, nuts, and breadcrumbs, as well as birdseed. When you’ve taken down your Christmas tree, use it in the garden as a hiding place for food and a nesting place for the species that didn’t fly south for the winter. Plan ahead for your spring garden. Don’t wait too late to order your favorite seeds as many sell out early.

With just a little creativity and a naturist’s heart, gardening enjoyment can be prolonged throughout winter while your surroundings remain beautiful. Winter doesn’t have to be dreary and, with these tips, your home will be the bright spot of the season.

Winter Gardening Equals Year- Round ColorB y C o r r i n n e L o u c k s A s s a d

REAL ESTATE & Home


With the gowing interest in green energy, housing, and gardening, it’s only “natural” to go green

with our families.Ask Ashe County’s Dixie Jarman who

knows that parenting doesn’t always come “natural,” despite popular opinion.

“Natural parenting has now become the rage and is re-recognized as the healthier alternative for our children and for the planet,” Dixie says, referring to a way of life, “30 or 40 years ago reserved for hippies.”

Natural parenting is simply about getting back to more gentle methods of parenting – avoiding societal customs and expectations that separate us from our children. It is choosing more organic and instinctive techniques such as breastfeeding, baby wearing, homeschooling and natural bonding. And avoiding common products that are harmful to our babies and our environments.

Dixie, wife and mother of four, has decided to get back to the basics by going natural.

Becoming more environmentally

conscious with each child, she began sewing while pregnant with her last, one-year-old, Natalie.

“It bothered me to be creating so much trash with disposable diapers,” she explained, “and I wanted to create a product that would be better for my children,” she states.

Her efforts are paying off, one diaper at a time.

Jarman’s PIXIE FLUFF business offers several styles and sizes of handmade diapers, including the sleeve waterproof-lined cloth diapers with openings for absorbent inserts, fitting babies from to those 30+ pounds.

She has also designed the one-size diaper, for babies three months and older, that include variable snap adjustments making it easier to grow with your baby. Dixie also makes training pants with snap-on sides, unique nursing covers that enhance privacy and disposable liners for the cloth diapers. She also offers an environmentally friendly detergent for diapers with a guarantee that the diapers will come out cleaner than popular commercial, chemically-ridden brands.

ALL ABOUT Biz

B y C o r r r i n n e L o u c k s A s s a d

Dixie Jarman, wife and mother of four, shown here with her two younger children, says that natural parenting is the only way to go.

Examples of Dixie’s Pixie Fluff handmade, environmentally-friendly diapers that come in various styles and sizes. Photos by Corrinne Loucks Assad

‘Natural’ Parenting with PIXIE FLUFF STUFF

‘Making natural

parenting super

simple with easy to

use cloth diapers

and nursing

covers.’


Dixie is happy to fulfill custom orders and to use fabric print of choice for custom orders.

Dixie is capable of fulfilling orders for baby showers, in which each guest purchases one diaper, presenting the new mom with all the diapers she’ll need for the duration. Dixie can also design matching gift sets from her varied selection of the diapers and bags, inserts/pads and nursing covers, as well as provide a custom “diaper” cake for that special baby shower.

Dixie suggests a newborn baby start with 24 diapers and six covers.

Eco-friendly, cost-effective, hygienic, durable, no rashes and no creams required is how Dixie describes her diapers. “And most importantly, they are healthier for your baby. Cloth diapers are replacing disposable diapers every day,” she said.

Making sure that a baby is healthy is the most important aspect of raising a baby. “Just as proper nutrition is essential, so are hygiene and cleanliness,” she said.

Disposable diapers are made with chemicals that can harm your baby. With synthetic texture, they are uncomfortable and can cause rashes and allergic reactions. Cloth diapers are not only natural and soothing to baby’s skin, but they are also environmentally friendly.

In a recent news segment, ABC featured a related story called, “The Diaper Debate – Are Disposables as Green as Cloth?” during which, the most significant environmental impacts for diapers were listed as resource depletion, acidification and global warming. It included the idea that for one child, 2½ years of age, these impacts are roughly comparable with driving a car between 1,300 and 2,200 miles.”

It is estimated that a baby will go through more than 1,000 diapers before his first birthday, making the purchase of disposable diapers an expensive undertaking.

From the PIXIE FLUFF website try one for free at pixiefluff.weebly.com/fitted-diapers ... Info on Test Diapers: “Here’s the scoop on these cheap diapers. You buy one, I send it to you. You get to try it for a while, and then I will send you a link to my Facebook page to give me a review. If you have any suggestions on how to improve them, send me an email,” Dixie said.

PIXIE FLUFF can also be found on Facebook or on Etsy: www.etsy.com/shop/PixieFluffStuff.


PET Page

“It’s a dog’s life,” seems to be the prevailing theme around the 100-acre Weaver property, home to

Toni Weaver Floyd, her paternal relatives, their dogs and meandering deer.

Considered by her family to be “a dog magnet,” Toni loves her four-legged friends and always had a dog while growing up. Her father has often said, “Toni brought home every stray she came across.” After marrying and becoming a mother, Toni wanted her children to have

the same experience; it wasn’t that easy since one of her daughters had allergies. Knowing that poodles didn’t have dander (a material shed from various animals, similar to dandruff, that contributes to allergies), Toni asked at the Humane Society if poodles ever showed up there. She left her phone number, just in case.

Months passed. A call fi nally came. The dog was about four-years-old, without a docked tail. “Its hair was completely matted and it was, by far, the ugliest dog

B y G e n e v i e v e A u s t i n

LifeIt’s a DOG’S


I’ve ever seen!” Her husband was eager to take it home, intending to train the dog to hunt. Toni got it groomed and recalls her embarrassment when she picked up the dog. The groomer had placed bows on its ears; Toni didn’t recognize the dog and was certain that it wasn’t the same one she had dropped off. “Sweets,” named so because of its temperament and new look, became Toni’s dog without question.

Sweets was devoted to Toni and so protective of the children; he woke Toni in the middle of the night when one of them ran a high fever. Sweets lived to be 17-years-old.

Before he died, Toni took ownership of a second rescue dog, this time, a toy poodle. Formerly known as Pierre (or “something French,” Toni recalls), the Weaver-Floyd family renamed it Petey.

Petey became protective of Sweets, which had become blind and deaf in his fi nal years. When Sweets passed away, Petey missed him but before long, he gained a new friend.

Employed by Watauga County School

System, Toni met Petey’s friend after walking into the high school offi ce on a snow day. When she sat down, a boisterous beagle puppy jumped into her lap. The puppy had been abandoned by a family, which, before moving away, had chained it to a tree.

Once again, Toni hadn’t sought a new canine friend but this little beagle puppy adopted her. Today, Copper oozes personality and enjoys dog “heaven on earth” at Toni’s house. Toni says that between her and her family they have about 10 dogs running free between their homes. She says there are so many deer that the dogs don’t even bark at them when they meander through their yards.

While Toni says she has rarely sought out “a new dog,” since they always fi nd her fi rst. She also knows that if there are no dogs in heaven, she doesn’t want to go there. Toni encourages all who need companionship to contact Friends for Life: www.hcfriendsforlife.org/home.

Check out Copper Floyd on Facebook.

Copper, kissing our new baby goat! Photos by Toni Weaver


ALL ABOUT Authors

T his month’s featured author is Sarah Byrd, from Elkin, who writes from the heart about life in a way

that all women can understand.

MB:Tell us about your latest book.

SB: “Guardian Spirit” is the story of Millie and her 12-year-old daughter Sadie and 5-year-old son Sammy. Millie escapes her abusive husband and takes her children to the abandoned cabin in The Blue Ridge Mountains where she often visited with her grandparents as a child. She hides there for the summer. The cabin has no running water so they carry it from a spring and take baths in a #3 washtub. Of course, the mean husband tries to fi nd them. A Cherokee medicine woman plus Sadie’s Guardian Spirit help the Madison family get away from him.

MB:What inspired you to write “Guardian Spirit?”

SB: The original plan was for “Guardian Spirit” to be a children’s story for my granddaughter. The cabin is real; it is a very mystical spot, with animals and nostalgia all around. I wanted my granddaughter to experience the magic of it all. But then the voices of Millie and Sadie became too strong, as my own childhood memories surfaced. “Guardian Spirit” quickly became a gift to myself as well as others who have experienced domestic violence.

I did, however, pen two children’s

stories for my granddaughter. They are spin-offs from “Guardian Spirit” and are called, “The Wayward Adventures” and “From Skunk Cabbage Bog.”

MB: What was the most diffi cult part of writing the book?

SB: Finding time to get my thoughts on paper. This novel fl owed out of me like melted butter. I couldn’t get it written fast enough.

MB: Describe your writing space.

SB: I handwrite all of my novels, so I like sitting outside, or in my sunroom, or in the wingback chair in my living room The space where I work on the computer is quite interesting. My Mac sits on an old desk I bought years ago for $99. I sit in a straight-backed chair that once belonged to Herman and Bertie Gentry, and there are post-it notes everywhere!

MB: Is there a next novel? Tell us about it.

SB: “The Color of my Heart” is now going through its fi rst edit. The story takes you

back to the last known slave ship, The Wanderer, that landed on Jekyll Island. It tells the experience of Lucia who was on that ship and of the next six generations to modern day, where the story evolves around Laura. She thinks her life is perfect, then fi nds out her mother was a descendent of Lucia, and a woman of color.

MB: What do you love about your hometown of Elkin?

SB: I love the smallness of it and the Big Elkin Creek where I waded as a child, and the Yadkin where I’ve caught many a catfi sh. I love looking out my sunroom window to see the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains ahead. And I love the downtown area, where I’ve walked the streets all my life.

For more information visit www.sarahmartinbyrd.com, www.sarahmartinbyrd.com/blog/, www.youtube.com/watch?v=x_AEq4_D_3s or at www.luckypress.com.

Sarah

BYRD And Her “Guardian Spirit”

Sarah Byrd’s work is quickly catching on and touches the heart of her readers in a mighty way. Photo submitted

W i t h M a g g i e B i s h o p


BLOOM Where You’re Planted

The one day of the year devoted to hearts and flowers is quickly approaching and has always been a

favorite time for me.My mind goes back to third grade

and a little boy who I thought for sure would someday be my husband. Why? Because, he left a box of Fifth Avenue candy bars on my porch on Valentine’s Day. I thought that was a pretty good sign of things to come. He was my first sweetheart.

That was years before “Sammy” Boone came into my life. He and I exchanged many valentines through the years – 50, to be exact. Sam didn’t use a lot of “flowery words” but he sure could pick out cards with romantic messages. I still have them.

I am a firm believer in the words of the song, “Little Things Mean a Lot.” It was popular more than 50 years ago and its message remains strong today, especially for us women.

Thinking of those “little things” reminds me of something else Sam did years ago when we lived in Florida.

He had a green thumb and grew beautiful roses in our yard. He got up early one Saturday morning while I was still sleeping. When I awoke, I discovered a lovely rose that had been placed on my pillow. That single rose meant just as much to me, if not more, than any of the florist-delivered roses that came to me through the years.

Our first summer here in the mountains was extremely rainy and depressing, especially for Sam. I heard him say, “I don’t think I can live without sunshine.” I was so afraid he’d want to move back. I replied, “The sun is shining. We just can’t see it.”

Several years later, on a cold, dreary day, he gave me a handwritten note that contained only five words: “You are my sunshine. Sam.” That simple gesture held more meaning than all of the cards he’d ever bought for me.

Other Love StoriesThrough the years, friends have shared

with me some of their own love stories and I asked three of them for permission to share them with you. They’re all High Country stories and the first is about a

Love StoriesB y S h e r r y B o o n e

couple, now over 80 years old. When they were younger, they often

carried a thermos of hot coffee, two cups and a quilt out to a yard swing where they snuggled up to watch the gentle snow fall around them. Complete silence usually surrounded them, but sometimes the peaceful sound of the snow falling in the woods could be heard. They can’t do this anymore but that memory still remains with them. They have been married for 63 years.

The second story, told to me by a friend, is all about sweet things a husband can do for a wife. Her loving husband serves her coffee in bed every morning. They have been married 43 years and are still “love birds.” Most women would be happy simply with coffee served to them in bed on Sunday mornings.

Do you believe in love at first sight? A friend told me that she and her husband were married after they had known each other for only three months. He

passed away this year after they spent 63 wonderful years together. He had been very ill and his “bride” underwent serious surgery soon after his passing. She said to me, “If he had to die, I’m thankful it happened before my surgery. He would’ve been so upset and might not have been able to accept it.” Her husband was well over 80, and so is his widow.

She had to go through her stressful time without him but I feel sure the love they shared all those years, along with God’s love and the love and support of others, carried her through the most difficult time of her life.

This year marks the 10th without my valentine. I’m so thankful for every year we had together and know in my heart that I’m still his valentine.

May you spend Valentine’s Day with the love of your life this year. Keep making sweet memories together – they will help carry you through difficult days in years to come.

That Live Forever


B y T e r i W i g g a n s

Balan

cing B

rain Power

With Heart Power

One day, about six years ago, it came to me that I am here on this earth to ‘help heal the hearts of mankind.’ I had no idea what that looked like but it ran strong in my

blood that that was where I was to focus my attention. Over the past 2,000 years plus, our intentions have been more brain-centered. We have made several advances in technology and yet our world seems out of order or chaotic.


War still exists. Prejudice still exists. Greed still exists. Violence still exists. If we are so intelligent, why haven’t we been able to create a world where we can truly be free to live in harmony and share our gifts generously? I say it is time to balance the brain power with our heart power and re-create our world.

What does our heart power look like? The heart is the most powerful generator of rhythmic information, or energy patterns, in the body. Positive emotions like love, gratitude, joy, courage, trust, and compassion increase harmony and efficiency in the interactions within the physiology of the body, emotions, thoughts and spirit. It is like a chord in music which is composed of different notes or frequencies which resonate as a harmonious order of sound waves.

I recently attended a memorial service for a thirty-two year old adopted son of my girlfriend since eighth grade. He was of mixed heritage, Irish and African-American descent. He had reddish-orange hair, bright sensitive eyes and a beautiful smile. Many participants rose and spoke about him at the service as a person who loved and supported everyone he encountered. He always “had your back,” as he was often quoted, and he continued to have the innocence, trust and playfulness of a child. He radiated “heart power” and people were drawn to him.

After the service, I returned with my friend to her home. She and her husband had created an international family of two adopted Asian daughters, two biological Caucasian daughters, an Eskimo adopted daughter and an adopted African-

American Irish son; all of them were married and some had children of mixed heritage. That day, as everyone had their “brother,” Nate, in their thoughts and heart, I heard that resonating harmony of the notes of different frequencies creating a most beautiful chord in Nate’s honor.

Nate is one of those inspirational people who radiated love from his heart. Through my own intention of ‘helping to heal the hearts of mankind’ I have learned that the heart is where true wisdom lies. As we shift from relying on our brain for answers to asking our heart for answers and trusting that what we hear is truth

and wisdom, we will begin to heal.

Our hearts have been underutilized. Our fear of pain and hurt and sadness and anger have prevented us from keeping our heart open. Our closed heart has not allowed us to feel our emotions and that, in turn, has prevented us from loving, trusting and being joyous, compassionate,

courageous and grateful.I invite you to begin to feel your

emotions. If the emotion is fear-based, then ask your heart’s wisdom how to create harmony. If the emotion is from a place of love, then celebrate and notice how light and harmonious you feel as a result. This is what Nate radiated for much of his life. His life was a tribute to ‘helping to heal the hearts of mankind.’ We are in gratitude.

Teri Wiggans, RN/MSN is ‘helping to heal the hearts of mankind’ at the Heartfelt Healing Center, (828) 264-4443.

“The best and most

beautiful things in the

world cannot be seen or

touched. They must be

felt with the heart.”– Helen Keller


GIFT Suggestions

Valentine’s Day


• A handmade card is the perfect way to express your private thoughts and will mean much more than the generic ones found in the store.

• Fresh fl owers delivered to his/her place of work, scattered lovingly around the house, or a single red rose with a ring attached to it. What can be more romantic?

• Personalized chocolates are a way of putting your expressions of love into a unique delivery.

• Plane tickets to Paris or a weekend in Pigeon Forge; a trip for two needs to be as unique as the couple.

• A romantic candlelit dinner – for two. Cook his/her favorite meal and light some candles; soft background music will set the scene for a perfect evening.

• A CD compilation of your favorite love songs.

• Jewelry – a heart locket for her with a photo of the two of you inside, or a piece of jewelry with a message on it for him.

• Say it with words – write him/her a poem about how much he/she means to you. If you can’t write poetry, then give a book of poetry instead.

• Picture perfect – have a favorite photo of the two of you enlarged and mounted into a nice frame.

Editor’s friendly advice for the guys: No vacuum cleaners, fl oor mats or mixers, please. Giving the wrong gift, even with the right intentions, is almost as bad as no gift at all.

Show your love with a special gift that comes from the heart and the memories will last for a lifetime. It shouldn’t be about spending your money but about sharing your love.

• A handmade card

• Fresh fl owers

• Personalized chocolates

• Plane tickets

• A romantic candlelit dinner

• A CD compilation

• Say it with words –

• Jewelry – a heart locket for her with

• Picture perfect –


MOMS’ World

There are times when other people’s business can really rock your world. Lately, the number of friends,

family, and acquaintances that I have that are making a split with their spouses is a bit unnerving. In my mind, I certainly can logically understand that sometimes people grow apart, that it’s not good to stay in a bad relationship, and that the outside world does not often know exactly what is taking place inside closed doors. However, I must admit that my heart aches for these families, even those where it is mutual and “amicable.” Maybe it’s because it is a reality check that all those things that seem secure are not. Or maybe it’s the fear that somehow the ripple effect will ultimately cause a wave to hit my own boat.

When I get news of another break-up, I feel the need to brace myself. There is a sadness that starts at my core and emanates and, to be quite honest, it all starts to feel apocalyptic.

Recently, a good friend from college was in town and we happened to be on the computer looking at old public

announcements from the 1950s, most notable of which was one instructing everyone to “duck and cover” in the event of an atomic bomb. The futility of the exercise is clear in this day and age, although I’m sure, at the time, it made some people feel reassured that they were at least doing something in the midst of great catastrophe.

Despite my own attempts to mentally block out these fallen relationships, the explosions are pretty unmistakable. Somehow, the parties involved seem to be bravely surviving. For some, this survival is on the surface only, but other times the people involved relate that they feel happier than they were prior to the split. So why do these break-ups hit so hard?

Perhaps the aftershocks remind us that family is a fragile entity. In this day and age, divorce and separation are certainly not uncommon and it leads one to question what allows one couple to endure and another to move apart and move on.

I’m grateful for my friends who have found greater happiness with new partners after diffi cult relationships, but

also I cling to those whose love seems steadfast and unmovable.

Confused, I struggle to make whole the pieces that surround me and give thanks for those in my life that have helped me to hold strong in my own relationship.

I take a deep breath and sigh at the fact that sometimes our foundations and roots are not what they seem. It is when the logical mind fails that the spirit must endure and trust in the fact that we all can fi nd peace and that sheet-of-glass pond somewhere within.

My mind travels to the storybook house, fi re in the fi replace, kids snuggled in, bread baking smell, and I realize that sometimes one must go internal to keep from being shaken by elements of time and consequence. I think to myself, if the sky was graying and the walls were falling, I hope that somewhere in my soul there will be that bell ringing, calling me home.

Comments or questions? Contact Heather Jordan, Certifi ed Nurse-Midwife, at the offi ce of Charles E. Baker, MD at (828) 737-7711 ext. 253 or e-mail her at [email protected].

B y H e a t h e r W . J o r d a n , C N M , M S N

May the Lord watch for thee as He watches for me.And the skies turn gray and the great walls fellAnd the swells all break and the breakers swellAnd the only sound is the ringing of the bellThat calls us home, that calls us homeAmen. Amen. Amen.

– Scott Miller, from the song “May The Lord Watch for Thee”

Family Is A Fragile Entity


The Nia Technique has made it to the High Country.

Considered a pioneer in body/mind fi tness, “the Nia Technique” has been charting new territory in the relationship between fi tness and wellness since 1983, and is now practiced in over 40 countries.

Nia has motivated runners, Olympic athletes, dancers, fi tness buffs and novices to embrace this new way to get and stay fi t. Endorsed by thousands of students and health practitioners, Nia changes the bodies of people of all ages and from all walks of life, using pleasure – not pain – by integrating the body, mind, and spirit through movement.

Integrating Western dance modalities such as modern, jazz, and Duncan dance, with eastern martial arts such as tai chi, Aikido, and tai-kwon-do, Nia also incorporates the powerful, conscious postures of yoga, The Alexander Technique, and the work of Moshe Feldenkrais.

Nia combines these nine movement forms, that when integrated, deliver a safe, effective cardiovascular workout with total body conditioning and personal growth benefi ts.

This systemic, exhilarating, non-impact aerobic workout is ideal for all ages and fi tness levels.

Nia is practiced in a variety of facilities, from traditional fi tness settings, to hospitals, clinics, corporate offi ces, programs, cardiac rehab centers, performing arts centers, and in schools, from elementary level through colleges and university programs.

The High Country now has an opportunity to experience this safe,

grounded movement practice that provides whole body fi tness, strength, and fl exibility.

Certifi ed Nia instructor, Max Boutelle invites everyone to discover the power and joy of this creative, savvy, energizing fi tness class. “Nia will move you,” she states. “Through movement, we fi nd health.” She should know as she is also a personal trainer, licensed massage therapist and Pilates instructor.

Nia classes are currently held at Neighborhood Yoga and Northwestern Studios in Boone and Backstreet Yoga in West Jefferson.

To learn more, visit www.MAXWORX.org, call (828) 773.5047, or e-mail: [email protected] for more info.

HEALTH & Fitness

High Country Welcomes Nia


HEALTH & Fitness

It happened all over America. Throngs of women stood in front of the mirror on New

Year’s Day, eyed their thickening waists, clenched their teeth and declared, “This year, I am going to lose weight!”

Caught up in the emotion of their commitment, they rush to market to buy spandex tights and a truckload of celery sticks and carrots. “I’m going to do it THIS TIME, durn it! Yes, I am!”

Sadly, within 30 days that impassioned declaration of intent has died to a whimper for

78 percent of those women. Why?

Gritting your teeth and summoning will power alone cannot sustain you. Will power is like a muscle. You can only flex it for just so

long before it gives out.Research shows

that your chances of

It’s Never Too Late

B y B o n n i e C h u r c h , W e l l n e s s C o a c h

To Do The Right Thing


sustaining your New Year’s commitment is greatly improved if:

• You make one resolution at a time;• You tell a friend what you are doing;• You track your progress;• You treat occasional lapses as temporary set-backs.

This year, instead of worrying about the same old New Year’s resolution to lose weight, make a commitment to chip away at the bad habits that are feeding that midriff bulge. It’s not too late.

MAKE A GOOD/BAD HABIT LIST

Identify the unhealthy habits in your life that are standing in your way of reaching your weight loss goal. For each unhealthy habit on the list, replace it with a good habit.

Example:

• Break soda habit – Drink two quarts of water daily.

• Break French fry habit – Order side of veggies instead.

• Break TV/couch potato habit – Walk on treadmill during all commercial breaks.

CHOOSE ONE HABIT ON WHICH TO FOCUS

Research shows that it takes about 21 days to cultivate a new habit. A good rhythm would be to tackle a new habit every month.

DEVELOP A SIMPLE ACTION PLAN

If your focus is to “break soda habit and drink two quarts of water a day,” a simple action plan might be:

• Remove unhealthy drinks from your kitchen and workspace.

• Bring fi ve bottles of water to work each day.

• To enjoy something bubbly, add unsweetened seltzer water and add lemon.

• Keep a bottle on your desk, within easy reach.

• Keep a post-it note on your computer to log how much you drink each day.

• Tell a friend what you are doing. This will strengthen your resolve.

Don’t forget to celebrate your success before tackling another habit.

FAIL FORWARD

Anticipate lapses. What some describe as ‘failure’ can just as legitimately be described as ‘feedback.’ Revisit your

action plan and ask yourself:

• Have unhealthy drinks worked their way back into my kitchen and my workspace?

• Have I been bringing those fi ve bottles to work each day?

• Am I savoring that bottle of seltzer?

• Am I keeping a bottle within easy reach?

• Have I been logging my progress?

It can be helpful to give yourself permission to lapse occasionally. Ask yourself, “Does this occasional lapse awaken cravings for more?” If you can drink a glass of soda without being taken totally off track, then enjoy an occasional soda.

As you master new habits – barring medical complications – you will lose weight. The best part of all, you will have developed the healthy habits necessary to maintain your weight for life.


HEALTH & Fitness

Making time for what you value is rarely a problem. So, how do you train or retrain your mind and

body to love movement? Your body was designed to move, to be strong and to be healthy.

Watching a child on a playground helps one see that that our natural inclination is to run, jump, climb and move. Exercise and movement create energy. We expend energy, but also expand our capacity for creating more energy to move through life

with vitality when we exercise on a regular basis.

If you were diagnosed with a disease requiring daily treatments in order to preserve your life, would you take the time to go? Yes, of course you would. Exercise is a life preserving “treatment.” Yet, the number one excuse why people are not physically active is because they say they do not have time.

Some of the many benefits of exercise, according to the US Department of Health

and Human Services, include: reducing the risks of dying prematurely, dying from heart disease, developing diabetes, high blood pressure and colon cancer. It also reduces feelings of depression and anxiety, helps control weight, maintains healthy bones, muscles, and joints – and these are just a few of the benefits.

The American College of Sports Medicine recommends the following exercise for healthy adults under 65 years of age: Moderately intense cardio

Finding Time For

B y S u s a n B a c o tFitnessSusan Bacot - Photo by Sherrie Norris


Fitness

30 minutes a day, five days a week, or vigorously intense cardio 20 minutes a day, three days a week, and eight to 10 strength-training exercises, eight to 12 repetitions of each exercise twice a week.

Moderate intensity physical activity means working hard enough to raise your heart rate and break a sweat, yet still being able to carry on a conversation. It should be noted that to lose weight, or maintain weight loss, 60 to 90 minutes of physical activity might be necessary. The 30-minute recommendation is for the average healthy adult to maintain health and reduce the risk for chronic disease.

Follow the F.I.T.T. principle

The F.I.T.T. principle can help you get started. It stands for Frequency, Intensity, Time and Type.

Frequency: How often will you exercise in a week?

Intensity: How do you know if you are exercising at the right intensity? A heart rate monitor, or the rate of perceived exertion scale, (RPE-Scale), are good methods for monitoring intensity.

Time: How long will you exercise? Although, you can break it up in 10- minute bouts of exercise throughout the day, exercise maintained for at least 30 minutes at a time is most beneficial.

Type: Vary the type of exercise/movement you choose to insure all the components of fitness are covered in a week. For example, cardiovascular or aerobic training, strength training and flexibility exercises should be included in a well-rounded program of movement. If you are one of those persons who hate exercise, it is OK to hate it until you love it! And you will.

Susan McKenzie Bacot M.A., CPFT, [email protected]


HEALTH & Fitness

Most of us know that what we put into our bodies is refl ected in our skin.

Now is the perfect time to take a close look at ways we can improve the entire process, fi rst by making sure that our dietary intake supports great, supple skin that will help us to look and feel our best for any occasion.

Water

Few things are as good as water for keeping your skin in shape. Water keeps skin hydrated, reducing the look of fi ne lines and wrinkles. It helps cells take up nutrients and purge toxins. And water improves circulation and blood fl ow, keeping your skin glowing.

Follow your thirst, or aim for at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day.

Selenium

Selenium is a trace mineral that may help protect skin cells from free radical damage. It may also play a role in skin cancer prevention.

Excellent sources include Brazil nuts, button mushrooms, shrimp, lamb, and fi sh such as snapper, cod, halibut, tuna, and salmon. Selenium is also found in cooked beef, light turkey meat, oysters, sardines, crab, and whole-wheat pasta.

Coenzyme Q10

CoQ10 is a powerful antioxidant made naturally in your body. It protects skin and other body cells from the damages of free radicals. CoQ10 is also involved in energy production and immune system function.

The main food sources of CoQ10 include oily fi sh such as salmon and tuna, organ meats such as liver, and whole grains.

Antioxidants

Antioxidants prevent or slow the damage done to cells by free radicals. This damage contributes to signs of aging, such as wrinkles and dry skin.

Antioxidants can be found in all kinds of foods, especially colorful fruits and vegetables such as berries, tomatoes, apricots, beets, squash, spinach, sweet potato, tangerines, peppers, and beans.

Vitamin A

Want to steer clear of dry, fl aky skin? Grab an orange, a carrot, or a slice of cantaloupe.

These fruits and vegetables are loaded

What Goes In Affects

The Skin


with vitamin A, which helps hydrate the lower layers of the skin. Other good food sources of vitamin A include leafy greens, eggs, and low-fat dairy such as cheese and milk.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C helps protect skin from the sun. It also helps undo damage done by free radicals, which destroy skin-firming fibers such as collagen and elastin.

Excellent sources of vitamin C include red bell peppers, citrus fruits, papaya, kiwi, broccoli, greens, and Brussels sprouts.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is another antioxidant that may help shield your skin from damage done by the sun. Vitamin E is also an anti-inflammatory and immunity enhancer.

Vitamin E is found in vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, olives, spinach, asparagus, olives, and leafy greens in small amounts.

Essential Fatty Acids

Essential fatty acids such as omega-3s and omega-6s help produce your skin’s

natural oil barrier, keeping dry skin and blemishes at bay. EFAs are necessary fats that help leave skin smoother and younger-looking.

Good sources include olive and canola oils, flax, walnuts, and cold-water fish such as salmon, sardines, and mackerel.

Healthy Oils

Good-quality oils like extra virgin olive oil and cold or expeller-pressed oil are more simply processed than many commercial oils, and so they may help retain more skin-boosting nutrients.

These oils may also help lubricate skin and keep it looking and feeling healthy.

Green Tea

Green tea may be the closest thing to a magic elixir that nature can offer for your skin. Green tea helps to stop inflammation, slow DNA damage, and can help prevent the sun from burning your skin.

You can find green tea in an abundance of cosmetics, but why not go straight to the source for a green tea boost: your tea pot.


What began as a hobby more than a decade ago has turned into a booming business for a local

cake baker.Watauga County’s Elizabeth Taylor

founded E.A.T. Cakes and Desserts last year and is loving the idea that she can help make special occasions become times to remember for her growing client base.

Known to friends and family simply as Beth, this busy wife and mother of two

began making cakes for family and friends at about the time her first niece celebrated her first birthday.

She remembers the occasion well.

However, much earlier, at the age of 14,

during the wedding of her cousin, Lisa, did she discover a love for cake decorating.

“Lisa’s cake was amazing. I knew that I had to seek out that creative outlet. I have always loved weddings – or

any celebration – and to be responsible for the

centerpiece of something special gives me such satisfaction,” Elizabeth said.

Elizabeth takes advantage of every possible opportunity to expand her skills to perfect her techniques. She knew that starting her own cake-decorating business wouldn’t

be easy but her efforts are paying off

rather sweetly these days, one layer at a

time. “I love baking and decorating cakes,” she

states.While husband, Joshua,

and daughters, Emma, 6,

and Katie, 4, share center stage in her life, Elizabeth is committed to meeting the needs of her clients, as well. She enjoys the challenge of making each new creation as individual and unique as the recipient. She loves to try new things and takes off quickly with ideas and suggestions for amazing results,

often through the innocent eyes of her daughters who help keep her

creative juices flowing. “Sometimes, they help me come up with new ideas,” she states.

One of her most interesting was an eyeball cake. “This cake was red velvet inside so when it was cut open, it looked like it was bleeding

as the Jell-o ‘iris’ ran out. The idea was not very

appetizing, but the cake itself was delicious,” she states.

Her most comical experience occurred about 12 years ago, while attempting a red velvet cake for the first time. “I had mixed everything just right and put it in the oven. About 15 minutes into baking time, we heard a loud pop and went to investigate. The cake had exploded in the oven and was splattered everywhere. At the time I was crushed, but now it’s hilarious.”

Elizabeth grew up in a small town in Texas called Needville. In 1993, at the age of 15, Elizabeth moved to Boone with her parents, Daryl and Jan Beck and sister, Lorri. She graduated from Watauga High School in 1996, and enrolled at Caldwell Community College. Four years later, she received a diploma in Veterinary Technology from Professional Career Development Institute. However, she ultimately took a career detour and decided that a home-based business would allow her the chance to spend more time with her family.

She eventually attended an extensive cake-decorating course offered by Wilton, a leader in the cake industry, which she said gave her the chance to explore the world of decorating in a way she never thought possible. “I discovered so much, including a love for helping others make


Creating Memories, One Layer At A TimeCustom Cakes

FOOD & Drink


Easy Boston Cream Cupcakes

CAKE:1 pkg. French vanilla cake mix Oil, eggs, and water as directed on box1 Tbsp. rum

FILLING:1¼ cups cold milk1 pkg. instant vanilla pudding1 Tbsp. vanilla extract

TOPPING: 1 cup heavy cream1 (12 oz.) pkg. semi-sweet chocolate chips

Prepare cake mix as directed on box, adding rum to batter.

Pour into muffin pan lined with cupcake liners.

Bake as directed on package. Cool completely.

In a bowl, beat together vanilla pudding mix, milk and vanilla.

Refrigerate 15 minutes until firmly set. Place creamed mixture into a piping bag

with a metal piping tipCut small hole in the bottom of each

cupcake through the paper. Insert tip and fill slightly with cream mixture.

In a saucepan, heat heavy cream to a simmer. Remove from heat and add chocolate chips. Stir together until melted.

Holding each cupcake upside down. Dip into chocolate to cover top. Set aside to allow chocolate to set slightly.

Makes: 12

Easy Toffee Truffles

1 pkg. white candy melts (suggest Wilton)1 pkg. dark or light cocoa candy melts, melted½ cup heavy whipping cream¾ cup toffee bits, crushedPecans, chopped

In microwave safe bowl or on stovetop, melt white candy melts with cream.

Remove from heat and let stand 15 minutes. Stir in toffee bits.

Pour into shallow baking dish and refrigerate 1 to 2 hours or until cool, but pliable.

Roll into 1-inch balls. Dip into melted chocolate candy and pecans.

Makes 5 dozen.

wonderful memories,” she states.“Serving others with custom-made

cakes is my passion. One day, I hope to open a bakery in Boone and be a part of happy memories in the High Country for a long time to come,” she states.

Elizabeth’s business is based on the

belief that the needs of customers are of utmost importance, a commitment that is proving itself to be true, as a majority of her customers keep returning, one special occasion after another.

Elizabeth delivers her products at no additional cost within the High Country,

and elsewhere, for a delivery fee based on distance.

For more information, call (828) 297-6158, e-mail at [email protected] or visit www. eatcakesanddesserts.vpweb.com.

Elizabeth’s Valentine’s Day recommendations to make at home:

Recipes From the Heart


Parting Shot

Of winter’s lifeless world each treeNow seems a perfect part;Yet each one holds summer’s secretDeep down within its heart.– Charles G. Stater

Photo By Sherrie Norris


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