sophie woman's magazine nov 2010

Sophie Woman’s Magazine Nov 2010 pg 1 Volume 6 - Issue 9November 2010

TAKE ONE

Wo m a n ’s M a g a z i n e

FREEA TASTY PART OF HICKORY pg 13ME, MYSELF, & INC. pg 19SHUTTERBUGGERZ pg 32

pg 2 Sophie Woman’s Magazine Nov 2010

‘Tis the Season for SHOPPING!Let Pure Reflection Spa help you find the perfect gift this Holiday season by bringing together some of the areas BEST local vendors

for your shopping pleasure!

2nd Annual Holiday Shopping Spa PartyMonday, November 15 from 5-7pm

Delicious RefreshmentsComplimentary Wine

Special Discounts on Spa Gift Cardsand Tons of Holiday Shopping fun!

915 Tate Blvd SE, Suite 146 | Hickory | w w w . p u r e r e f l e c t i o n . c o m

Spaces are very limited. Call to register yourself

and a friend!

828.345.1290You’re sure to find the

perfect gift for everyone on your list!

Sophie Woman’s Magazine Nov 2010 pg 3

Our september Winners

Visit us online at shutterbuggerz.com

Pro Winner: Elements Photography

Amateur Winner: Vanna Abernathy

from the

sophiewomansmagazine.com

by Judy Smith

Message

Be sure to visit our website at:Follow Us On Facebook@ Shutterbuggerz

Did you know that according to the Bible worry is a sin? Well, I am confessing that I sin a lot in that area. The definition of worry is “to torment oneself with or suffer from disturbing thoughts”. More than that some of the synonyms are: bother, fear, fret, fuss, stew, stress, sweat and trouble. Everyone raise your hand if that is what you want your days to be like. Yeah, I didn’t think so! Neither do I! It is so a waste of time. So why do we do it? I could say that it is automatically something that connects with you when you have children. I wish I could say that it goes away when they are grown and out on their own but then I would be adding another sin on top of the already confessed one. Before they were born, I worried if I would know how to take care of them. Then came worrying about teaching them right from wrong. After that I worried if others would like them, would they be bullied in school or would they be the bully. Then they started showing interests in the opposite sex and my, oh my, oh my; the worry scale was off the charts. Or so I thought, but that even escalated when they got their drivers license. I just need to calm down. I am getting myself all worked up just remembering those days. We survived. Most of the things I worried about never took place so all that fretting, fearing and stressing; well, I took ten years off my life and for what? So now, I am minus ten years and you would have thought I would have learned a lesson. But, nooo, not me. Then comes college, marriage and a baby carriage! That just came out and I can’t make myself take it out. A whole new set of worries takes over and now I have taken ten more years off my life! Please let it stop! My family’s life expectancy is not that great and reaching 80 would be a milestone for my family. Knowing that, though, doesn’t stop me from worrying and it multiplied. I have grandchildren! Will their parents know how to take care of them, etc., etc., etc.? Some are driving, some are in college, some might fall on the playground and break an arm. Why am I worrying? It is supposed to be their parents who are worrying. I am losing at least twenty years in this worrying stage. That is FORTY years! Oh, wait, that does not add up. Oh no….I have already gone forty years over my life expectancy. I will be kicking the bucket any minute now! Kids, I love you. Grand kids, I love you more. Husband, sorry, I won’t be able to be here to prepare you lots of fine meals. OK, that was a little white lie…another sin piling on. I don’t cook. Wait! It can’t end here. It has not been all worry. There have been some glorious times. I think I am starting to feel better. What is the definition of joy? It is “the emotion of great delight or happiness caused by something exceptionally good or satisfying; keen pleasure; elation”. I think I have just added ten years to my life because I can’t even count all those wonderful things that have happened in my life. My kids didn’t beat up anyone and they didn’t get beat up. What was I worried about. I am having “keen pleasure” right now just thinking about how great they turned out. And those grandkids…well my life is just full of “elation”. Yep, I am feeling it now. I might even do some sit-ups. Who knows, I might even cook my husband a fabulous meal. If I am not too tired from the sit-ups, that is. Thanksgiving is just around the corner and I will be cooking then. Whether it is fabulous or not, I am not going to worry about it. Instead, I am going to focus on joyfulness and that feeling caused by something exceptionally good or satisfying. Will you join me? Let’s not forget to be thankful for our many blessings and give God the praise for it all. After all, my life expectancy is forever with Him!


Sophie Woman’s Magazine LLC is published monthly. The articles published in Sophie do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. All articles are intended forinformational purposes only, and none should serve as a substitute for doctor’s advice and orders. Advertisers are solely responsible for the content and validity of informationpublished within their ads and are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher. Deceptive or misleading advertising is not knowingly accepted by the publisher. Advertising is acceptedwith the understanding that all liability for copyright violations is the sole responsibility of the advertiser. All material submitted for publication is considered to be the sole propertyof the advertiser.

21 East A StreetNewton, NC 28658(P) 828-466-0122(F) 828-466-0123

Editor: Judy Smith

Sales:Judy Smith

Debbie LewisRachel DeBlcokTerri Ferraguto

Graphic Design: Scott Hansley

Production Manager: Scott Hansley

Printing: RT [email protected]

Distribution: Scottie Townsend

Final Advertising DeadlineFor The Next Issue:

How to place an ad:Call our office at (828)466-0122 and leave a

message. One of our sales representatives will return your call as soon as possible. You may also

fax material to (828)466-0124. We reserve the right to refuse to run any ad we deem to be

controversial or in bad taste.

Nov 10th

SophieWoman’s Magazine

Attention Business Owners:Our readers are your customers!Designed to be a great read, Sophie Woman’s Magazine is written for and about women who are the key decision makers for the family in virtually all business categories. We regularly address matters of importance to women including health, education, home, and charitable events. Our advertisers appreciate the value of this loyal readership.

A Solid Investment During These Times Of Economic Uncertainty.You can expect solid results because together - with your ads and our content - we strengthen women, giving them confidence in themselves and their buying decisions. Your ad will be a standout in our publication and will bring greater return on your investment.

Advertise With Us!

For more information about advertising, contact one of our Account Representatives Today!

Judy SmithSales Manager(P) [email protected]

Rachel DeBlockAccount Representative(P) [email protected]

Debbie LewisAccount Representative

(P) [email protected]

Terri FerragutoAccount Representative

(P) [email protected]


Please be sure to visit all our participating advertisers and remember to support area local

small businesses.

A Special Thanks To All Of Our Distributors

Follow Us On Facebook @ Sophie Woman’s Magazine

sophiewomansmagazine.com Where Friends and Shoppers Meet

16 2nd St. NW Hickory, NCwww.USEHickory.com

The Cookie Nook

Head Over Heelz

Healthy Home Market

HaZ Golf

Thad & Louise

Lane Florist & Gifts

Your Holiday ShoppingAll UnderOne Roof!

Lucky Lily’sJillybean’s CreationsArtist Tommy Stine

Artist Robert WicklanArtist Patti Fennick

Artist DerflaArtist Jim Norris

Artist Books By SigridArtist Kira

Chiller PhotosGifts For All Occasions

Belle TerreGerogina’sIda Lee’s

Open Hearts BakeryThe Tumbler Depot

Susan Guest InteriorsUnPlain Jane

The PlantationOphelia’s Web Design

Capture The Moment PhotographyMadison Rose

Collegiate FanaticsConfection Heaven

HeirloomsColorWhirl

Tybee CharmYour Sweet Boutique

Sister CompanyThe Collegiate Fanatic

Fancy BloomersMerchants of the Globe

Dana’s Fine Jewelry at the EmporiumDY Originals

324-SHOP

Message From The Heart........................................pg 3Mandy’s Misadventures..........................................pg 7 The Cupcake Cutie.................................................pg 8 Suviving A Death In The Family..........................pg 10A Tasty Part of Hickory.........................................pg 13Con Artists Don’t Take A Vacation......................pg 14Nicole Greer: Sophisticated Women....................pg 16Me, Myself, and Inc.............................................pg 19The Male Box.......................................................pg 20Girlfriends In God................................................pg 23Truth & Beauty by Teresa Pope............................pg 24Susan Guest: When To Hire A Pro....................pg 25 The Front Porch....................................................pg 27The Sophie Shopper..............................................pg 28Dinner Diva...........................................................pg 30Shutterbuggerz Feature.........................................pg 32 Turkey Leftovers The Family Will Eat.................pg 48A Plan of Attack on Black Friday......................pg 51How To Guide To Holiday Hosting...................pg 53The Holiday Snow Village Is Back......................pg 54


Debbie Willis Nail Tech

10% OFF All RetailWith Any Chemical Treatment

Stylist Needed Full/Part-time

Private Rooms Available

Below Carolina TheatreDowntown Hickory

Cuts • ~ Color Manicures• Pedicures•Waxing•Light Concept •

Nails Massage •

Therapist

Wishing EveryoneA Happy Thanksgiving

Walk-InsWelcome

Michael GendronMassage Therapist

381-4090(call for appointment)

Amy SevertOwner/Stylist

Christian MooreStylist

Lynn Laws Stylist

Melanie Williams Owner/Stylist

401 Mulberry St SW Suite 101

Lenoir, NC 28645

828-758-5501

Treatment AreasUpper Lip•Legs•Underarms•Arms•Back•Bikini•Chest•Chin•Neck•

Using State of the Art

Lumenis M 22

Refer 3 Friends & Receive 1 FREE

Session

Also ProvidingLaser Hair Removal

SAY GOODBYE TO UNSIGHTLY VEINS.GOOD RIDDANCE WRINKLES & SUN SPOTS OF SUMMER.

WE PROVIDE A FULL RANGE OF SKIN REJUVENATION TECHNIQUES

FOR VEINS, WRINKLES, AND SUN/AGE SPOTS.

“I used to be embarrassed by the way my legs looked, but not anymore! I have had excellent results from the laser treatments; my ugly veins are disappearing. Very professional yet personable approach to my situation. I would highly recommend”. S. Younce

Great Gift Ideas!

G I F T C E R T I F I C AT E S AVA I L A B L E

Highland Recreation Center (828)326-5000 [email protected]

Pay by the class or by the month. No Long Term Contract.

“We work so others can play”

land Recreation Center [email protected]

by the class or by the month. No Lo

Present This Ad To Save

$1000

At Your First Class Only


Misadv en tur e sby Mandy ThomasMandy’s

This past month has been hazardous for my health.

Literally.

Kidney stones and back pain are but two symptoms of what I have endured, and I was in bed more than I was out of it. Thankfully, my mother-in-law was able to come down and help me out by taking care of the girls, cooking and doing laundry. Really, she is such a lifesaver and a blessing.

So when I say “not much has been going on,” I really mean “oh, hey y’all, I haven’t been out of bed in a month!” But what I can tell you is that in every season of life there are lessons, and this season of pain has been no exception for me.

I’d like to share some of the lessons I’ve learned during my down and out time.

1. If you pull it, they will come. Being so far away from my family, it’s been nerve-wracking when emergencies arise and I find myself unable to function without some sort of help. But, as mentioned earlier, my “other Mama” came and helped me in my time of need, and I want her to know how very thankful I am that she’s in my life. And shame on me if I didn’t mention my father-in-law, who was kind enough to let me steal her away from him for two weeks. I owe him a lot of home cooked meals.

2. Oh, wow, I do miss them. My kids are insane. They climb walls, swing from my chandelier, break my leopard heels, swipe my lipstick when I’m not looking, and often times won’t let me shower. That being said, while lying destitute I wanted nothing more than to listen to Savannah talk about Elvis or Barbie or even what color her boogers were - I just missed her! And, to my surprise, I even missed Addison crawling all over me like I’m her own personal Carowinds.

3. He can cook and do laundry. Oh yes he can, y’all. My husband can cook and do the laundry while I’m down and out, and now I know about it. Guess what I’m going to make him do now? Guess, guess!

4. Apparently, I owe my dad a huge “I was wrong” for thinking he was a sissy crying about kidney stones. They do hurt, and Daddy, I was wrong.

And finally,

5. Talking to myself in the privacy of my own home is okay, but doing it in public is socially ostracizing.

So while the idea of laying around doing absolutely nothing may sound appealing in the next three weeks or so, when my kids are sticking those boogers I missed so much in my drink and my husband’s dirty laundry is piling up and dinner needs to be done because people will starve if I don’t get it done... well, right now I’m just thankful to be back in the swing of things.


By, Marisa Brown Everyone loves a good cupcake. Cupcakes… well, cupcakes just put a smile on your face! I remember making cupcakes with my mom when I was a little girl. I would sit on the counter and help her measure and mix. Lick-ing the spoon was always my favorite part! Make a cupcake for someone you love and put a smile on their face. Better yet, make cupcakes with someone you love. Decorate them together too!

DirectionsPreheat your oven to 350 degrees. Line cupcake pans with paper liners. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin pie spice; set aside.In a large bowl, mix together brown sugar, sugar, butter, and eggs. Add dry ingredients slowly and mix until smooth. Mix in pumpkin puree.Divide batter evenly among paper liners, batter should fill 24 liners at about half full. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes (until a toothpick is inserted and comes out clean).While cupcakes are baking, make the frosting. In a large bowl, mix cream cheese and butter with an electric mixer. Stir in the maple flavoring and vanilla extract. Add the confectioners’ sugar and mix on low until smooth.Transfer cupcakes to a cooling rack; let cool completely before icing.

IngredientsCupcakes:2 cups all purpose flour1 teaspoon baking soda1 teaspoon baking powder½ teaspoon salt1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice*1 cup packed brown sugar¾ cup sugar1 cup (2 sticks) softened butter4 large eggs (beaten)1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree (not pie filling)Frosting:6 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)3 tablespoons softened butter¼ teaspoon natural maple flavor½ teaspoon vanilla extract2 cups confectioners’ sugar

*If you cannot find pumpkin pie spice, make your own! Just mix together 1 tsp. cinnamon, 1 tsp. ginger, 1/4 tsp. allspice, and a 1/4 tsp. nutmeg.

DirectionsPreheat oven to 350 degrees. Line cupcake pans with paper liners. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin pie spice; set aside.In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, sugar, butter, and eggs. Add dry ingredients slowly and whisk until smooth. Mix in pumpkin puree.Divide batter evenly among paper liners, filling each about halfway. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes (until a toothpick is inserted and comes out clean).Transfer to cooling rack; let cool completely before icing.For icing:In a large bowl, mix cream cheese and butter with an electric mixer. Stir in the maple flavoring and vanilla extract. Add the confectioners’ sugar and mix on low until smooth.Transfer cupcakes to a cooling rack; let cool completely before icing.

Marisa Brown lives in Hickory, North Carolina with her husband Eric. They are both originally from Portland, Oregon. Marisa is an Account Execu-tive at Catawba Valley Staffing, Inc. She may be contacted at [email protected]

The Cup cake

Cutie


Ear Piercing • Custom Jewelry Design Jewelry & Watch Repair • Custom Engraving

DDowntown Newton

828-466-1999 Find Us On Facebook @ facebook.com/danasfinejewelry

Layaway Now For Christmas

Your Terms • No Minimums • No Fees

Dana’s F i n e J e w e l r y

Produced by:

TicketsOn Sale

Now!North Carolina Stage Company& Immediate Theatre Project

WWW.NEWTON-CONOVERAUDITORIUM.ORG

. . . And . . . Open in August: . . . And . . . Open in August:

Women & Children’sDesigner Clothing

& AccessoriesGigi’sNOW OPEN INDOWNTOWNNEWTON!

Abercrombie, Ann Taylor, Banana REpublic, Chico’s, Children’s Place, Express, Gap,

Guess, Gymboree, Hollister, Lilly Pulitzer, Ralph Lauren, Talbots, and so many more!

WE HAVE THE TOP BRANDS!

Follow Us On Facebook @ gigi’s consignment

Now With 2 Locations!Gigi’s Unique Boutique116 N. Main St Newton

828-464-0888

Gigi’s Consignment Boutique110 E. Main St. Lincolnton

704-732-0085OR

No Joining Fee!No Contracts

Low Monthly Rates!

State of the Art Equipment

Zumba • Flirty Fitness TurboKick • Piloxing Body Bar Boxing • Yoga Pilates

Foam Roller Workout Cardio Medicine Ball/

Kettlebell Mix and more!

Specialty Classes Including:

Cardiovascular Machines •Weighted Circuit Machines • Free Weights

828.465.4055www.theperfectworkout.net

Clean Private Gym Atmosphere Without The High Costs!

Search:uptalker1 for workout videos

TINA HAS LOST 35 POUNDS!


1088 Radio Station Road • (828) 466-7474

“I thought my mother was destined for a nursing home until we found The Garden Place at Carillon. Now she gets 24-hour care in a secure residential setting from a specially trained staff.”

The affordable monthly fee includes:

• 3 daily meals with snacks.• Medication management.• Full calendar of activity programs.• Private or shared rooms.

Alzheimer’s Disease Carillon Assisted Living can help.

• Secured garden with walking paths.• Short-term care available.• Worship services.

CoCo’s ClosetA Trendy Ladies Boutique

Designer Brand ClothesAt A Fraction Of The Price

All For Us Girls!Come Check Us Out!828-320-74791776 B N Center StHickory NC 28601

Beautiful Fall Fashions

Make This Thanksgiving Day One To Remember

1385 Lenoir Rhyne Blvd SE • Hickory, NC

Let Us Do The Work While You Relax & Enjoy Those Who You Are Most Thankful For!

Seatings 11:30 AM & 2 PM

$21.95 Adults1/2 Price for Children

Ages 6-125 & Under Are Our Guest

Come Savor The Thanksgiving

Buffet At Piedmont Park

“Where Memories Are Made”

Reserve Your Table Today!828-323-8241, Ext 5008

Thursday, November 25th

Private Rooms Available For Rent

Melissa Reitzel962-1111

Walk-Ins Welcome

WELCOMES

828-345-1130 HWY 127 ~ Hickory

By: Casey M. Winebarger, Esq.

As an attorney who practices estate planning and estate administration, I encounter families who have lost loved ones on a daily basis. While each person handles a death differently, those who are given the responsibility of settling the deceased’s financial affairs must also shoulder this added stress. In fact, it is common to hear this person say that they have been unable to properly grieve for the deceased because they have been so worried about what they have to do. Fortunately, I am often able to relieve this stress by walking the families through the estate administration process. If you find yourself faced with the loss of a parent, grandparent, brother, sister, or friend, here is a list of steps you will take in the estate administration process.

• Mourn your loss. First, take the time to be with your family and friends, to attend the funeral, and to celebrate and honor your loved one’s life. This is one of the most important steps and should not be overlooked.

• Apply for survivor’s benefits. The surviving spouse of the deceased may be entitled to one or more survivor’s benefits, including a Year’s Allowance of up to $20,000 from the estate, Social Security widow’s benefits, and/or survivor benefits through the Veterans’ Administration. If the deceased left minor or disabled children, additional benefits may also be available for them.

• Locate the will. As soon as possible after the death, you should locate the deceased’s will, if he or she had one. People often leave their wills in safety

deposit boxes, fire proof safes in their homes, or with their other important papers. If the will is in a safety deposit box, or you think it might be, you may have to obtain court approval to open the box, in which case the Clerk of Court will have to be present at the time the box is opened.

• Qualify the personal representative. The person named as executor in the will or, if there was not a will, a spouse, child, or next of kin must apply to the Clerk of Court for appointment as the personal representative of the deceased’s estate. This person must file certain forms with the Clerk of Court to receive the Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration that will give him the power to act as the personal representative. In

Surviving a Death in the Family


Casey Winebarger is an attorney at Patrick, Harper & Dixon, LLP in Hickory, North Carolina. She practices

primarily in the areas of estate planning, elder law, and business and corporate law. Casey may be contacted at

828-322-7741 or via email at [email protected]. Patrick, Harper & Dixon is Hickory’s oldest and largest

full-service law firm.

Midway CarpetDistributors, Inc.Since 1972

Complete Line Of:Carpet

Hardwood Floors Ceramic Tile

Area Rugs Wallpaper

Vinyl FlooringLaminate Flooring

828-465-10331525 NW Blvd. • Hwy 321 By-Pass Newton

www.midwaycarpetdist.com

Check

Out Our

Great Prices!

PURCHASE A GIFT CARDSAVE 20% OFF

THE FACE VALUE OF CARDNot Valid with a Gift Card, Not Valid with any other offer or special. Expires 12-31-10.

EXCLUSIVE VIRTUAL NAILSMANICURES & PEDICURES

LITTLE DIVA SERVICESFull body massage

permanent manicureWAXING

Book now for all your holiday parties: Basic Diva, Spoiled Diva, & all out Diva Packages Available

Located at 2103 Catawba Valley Blvd. SE Hickory, NC(Behind the mall and beside Quizno’s)

828-431-2331M-F 10-8Sat. 10-6

Experience the Diva Difference

some instances, the personal representative may need to obtain a bond from an insurance company as well.

• Identify and value the assets of the estate. The personal representative is responsible for collecting the assets of the estate, paying any final debts, and distributing the remainder to the heirs in accordance with the will or state law. To accomplish this, the personal representative will notify the deceased person’s banks, financial advisors, and insurance companies of the death. If the deceased did not leave a list of his or her assets, the personal representative may inquire with various banks and companies as to whether the deceased had an account.

• Gather the assets. The personal representative must open a checking account in the name of the estate in which to deposit the deceased’s assets and from which to pay the estate administration expenses and the debts of the deceased. Bank accounts, certificates of deposit, and money market accounts will be transferred to the estate checking account. The personal representative may need to submit forms to collect other assets, such as insurance. The Clerk of Court will require the personal representative to account for all money coming in and going out of the estate, so it is critical to keep detailed records of the estate checking account transactions.

• Identify and pay debts. The personal representative should also publish a notice in a local newspaper to inform creditors that the person has died. Any creditors will have a certain amount of time to make claims for repayment of money owed to them by the deceased. If there are more debts than assets in the estate, state law will determine in what order they are paid. The personal representative is also responsible for filing the applicable income and estate tax returns of the deceased and of the estate. A CPA can advise the personal representative of what returns are required. Furthermore, these returns can be complex, so it is often wise to have the CPA complete and file the returns.

• Distribute the remaining assets to the heirs. At the conclusion of the estate administration, the personal representative will distribute the remaining funds in the estate checking account to the heirs by writing a check. Title to any non-cash assets, such as vehicles and stocks, will be transferred to the heirs. If the deceased owned real estate, title automatically passes to the heirs, so a new deed is not required.

Just as no two people are alike, no two estates are alike. Of course, attorneys are available to answer questions and offer guidance. The personnel in the county Clerk of Court offices are also helpful and knowledgeable. Finally, there is good information available on the internet, such as the estate administration pamphlet published by the North Carolina Administrative Office of the Courts (available in the Forms section of www.nccourts.org). With the abundance of resources available, you can rest assured that you won’t have to go through the process alone.

Disclaimer: The content of this article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice. You should not rely solely on the information herein when making legal decisions. You should consult an attorney for specific advice tailored to your unique situation.

pg 12 Sophie Woman’s Magazine Nov 2010pg 12/ Aug 2010 / Sophie Woman’s Magazine

Josh’sOn Union Square

Want to be part of an exciting casual dining experience? Look no further than Josh’s on Union Square. Chef Josh will prepare some of your most favorite traditional southern comfort dishes, with atwist of course, which will make it one of your most unique dining experiences. Come enjoy the soft tones of our dining area along with historical pictures of day’s gone by. Not to forget there’s plenty of southern hospitality to go around. Come and be a part of the best of both culinary delights, fine dining and comfort food with an exciting casual dining atmosphere at a value for all.

“Come As You Are” Chef JPhillips206 Union Square Hickory, N.C. ~ 828.324.5674

Lunch

11am -2pm

Mon - FriBrunch11am - 2pmSat & Sun

Dinner5pm - UntilMon - Sat


Coffees, Teas, and Homemade Eats A Tasty Part of

HickoryTaste Full Beans Coffee Shop Celebrates

Ten Years Serving Hickory

Taste Full Beans Coffee Shop is celebrating, and they are inviting the community to join the party. The excitement and festivities are happening to commemorate a decade of serving their friends and non-profit organizations of Hickory. Anniversary celebrations are planned for Thursday, November 18. Events are planned throughout the day, starting with a special early morning food delight, an invitational luncheon, and topped off with a late day mix of hor d’oeuvres, wine and live entertainment. Opened in 2000 by D.W. Bentley and Edgar Nucamendi, Taste Full Beans has become a mainstay business in Hickory. The only coffee and tea shop in the downtown area, it is a comfortable environment for relaxing, reading, or gathering with friends. Their assortment of healthy food adds to their offerings. From the very beginning, Hickory has embraced D.W. and Edgar as friends. That is easy to do, since the pair makes everyone feel right at home, firmly cementing Taste Full Beans into the heart of the neighborhood. “This is my community and I love building long relationships with my customers, friends, and fellow neighbors” said Nucamendi. “I consider them all family.” Their support of area non-profit organizations further shows their dedica-tion to the people of Hickory. Each year, they continually give back to the community by encouraging contributions, and hosting fundraising events. Organizations supported by Taste Full Beans in 2010 are the Humane Soci-ety of Catawba County, ALFA, and the Women’s Resource Center. Their philanthropic efforts have not gone unnoticed. Several awards of recognition for their work have been received including WSOC-TV’s 9 Who Care award, The NC Governor’s Award for Distinguished Volunteer award, and the FPA Philanthropic award. Taste Full Beans also supports the talents of local artists and photogra-phers, featuring showcase exhibits of paintings and photographic works throughout the bistro.

Everyone is invited to join in the celebration. Visit

www.tastefullbeans.com for more details.


Con Artists Don’t Take a Holiday

Vacation While most people are consumed with shopping for holiday presents, con artists are hard at work coming up with new ways to part individuals from a buck. Unsuspecting people could lose their holiday spirit if victim-ized by a scam. Every year people save money so that they can purchase scores of gifts for their family members and friends. While money is being charged to credit cards or flying out of wallets at check-out counters, con artists are interested in getting their cut of the proceeds. Many scammers prey on the goodwill of people this time of year, fleecing them of their hard-earned money. There are a number of scams that are commonplace throughout the year, but seem to escalate come the holiday season. Many of these fake deals are solicited through mail or e-mail. Here are some to avoid.

* Spam scams: Check anyone’s e-mail inbox and there’s bound to be dozens of unsolicited messages in their offering products and services. While many advertisements are from legitimate companies (many from stores and busi-nesses a consumer may have used in the past), others are from bogus outfits looking to prey on the unaware. These scam e-mails may promise unbeat-able deals on all types of things. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Shoppers can avoid the headaches of losing money to scammers by delet-ing unsolicited e-mails and not falling prey to the deals they offer.

* Name a star, planet, etc.: Individuals looking for clever gifts for that hard-to-buy-for person may have been tempted to “name a star” in one’s honor. A number of companies charge a fee to register a chosen name for a star at particular coordinates. The trouble is that only the International Astronomi-cal Union (IAU) names stars, and the stars are not for sale. Many stars are actually named with numbers and in abidance to strict regulations by the IAU. Any organization that claims they can name a star is not legitimate.

* Phony charities: All types of charities spring up around the holidays and do their best to collect money for a particular cause. There are many legiti-mate charities around the world, even some the average person may not be aware of. It is important for consumers looking to donate money to a charity to carefully research the organization before writing any checks. In the U.S., most charities must file a Form 990, which will indicate how much the groups spent on programs, administration and fundraising activities. Aperson can request a copy of the Form 990, although some charities charge a fee for this. Houses of worship may not be required to file a Form 990. Beware of charities offering a Tax ID number in place of a Form 990. This ID number can be issued to any business and does not necessarily indicate a legitimate charity.

* Online auctions: Thousands of nameless people list items for sale on popular auction Web sites. Individuals take leaps of faith when bidding on and eventually purchasing items at auction. Selecting sellers with high rates of positive feedback is a good idea, as is paying with a form of payment that can be cancelled should the item not be shipped out.

* Destructive e-mails: ‘Tis the season for merriment, and people are anxious to download cute and whimsical ring tones or e-greetings to celebrate the season. What they may not know is that some of these seemingly harmless downloads contain potentially damaging computer viruses.

* Bad gift cards: A favorite trick of con artists is to swipe and steal the information from gift cards on display in stores and then periodically check to see if they’ve been activated. Once active, the scammers can use the cards to shop online. Another gift card scam is to sell bogus cards online that have no monetary value.

* Pickpockets: Not all holiday scams need to be high-tech. Picking a pocket or stealing a purse is still thriving today -- especially in crowded places like a busy mall. Shoppers should be aware of their belongings at all times while shopping.

************************************************************


THE CENTER FOR

ADVANCEDVEINCARE& L A S E RSOLUTIONS

50% Hair RemovaloffLip, Chin, & Underarms!

Long-lasting results with

COMFORT, SAFETY & SPEED

Unsightly varicose veins disappear at The Center For Advance Vein Care. We understand your feelings about maintaining your body image. We can help you bring new style into your walk by erasing blemishing or bulging veins, permanently.

We perform Sclerotherapy, ultrasound-guided Sclerotherapy and Ambulatory Phlebectomy. Our most advanced option, EVLT, is a virtually painless, laser-energy day surgery that results in immediate recovery. Scarring is avoided, and you will be on your feet again that day. We encourage it.

Tell your doctor about your concern, ask for a referral to Advanced Vein Care. It’s your first step toward good vein health.Before After

A.D. Thompson, Jr., M.D., F.A.C.S. 3513 Graystone Place, Hickory

828-322-8485

Style Exchange TEEN Brands, TRENDY Styles, COOL Prices!

109C Williamson Rd Mooresville

(704) 664-7200

We pay CA$H for trendy clothing & accessories!

(up to size 24 & 3X) 1822 Hwy 70 SE

Hickory (828) 267-7200

Hours: Mon-Sat 10-8 & Sun 1-6

WWW.STYLEEXCHANGEONLINE.COM

Meetings, Banquets, Reunions, Receptions, Parties/Socials

300 South Center Street ~ Historic Downtown StatesvilleFOR RESERVATIONS CALL: 704.878.3493

www.statesvilleciviccenter.com


By Nicole Greer, PPCC Founder and Principle Coach at Vibrant Coaching

Sophisticated Women Say

TM

Visit Us At

www.wewinusa.com

Saying, “Grace” growing up was simply rote. I knew it was expected and required. Obediently, I did as I was told. The words just rolled off my tongue. I didn’t understand their meaning so they lost their energy, their impact, and their influence. A fresh look at the words surprises me. Just look at these words.

God is great. God is good. Let us thank Him for this food. Amen

Do you see what I see? I see powerful words that are true and an invitation to give thanksgiving. God is indeed great. And God is indeed good. What would it be like if once a day we stopped and really saw how great and good the creator is? You would regain focus, capture meaning, experience more balance,and feel fulfilled. November is the designated month to give thanks, but I believe that a vibrant sophisticated woman can navigate each and every day, the year, and the world when she stops to count her blessings. In this case, I am not calling you to count your blessings as another rote cliché but I offer you some real time strategies, systems, and smarts for embracing a life of gratitude. Practice the Daily Examen: Sit in a quiet space at the end of your day specifically set aside for contemplation. Consider what in your day brought joy, delight, and increased your energy. Simply write down key words or a phrase for what you are grateful for in a journal. Purchase a copy of Simple Abundance by Sarah Ban Breathnach: This book is a classic. The strategies for living simply in the comfort and joy of what you have right now in the moment can teach you to celebrate who you are, what you have, and how to live in gratitude. Write your Thank You Notes: Not with an obligatory heart or with that nagging inner voice chastising you to ‘Get them done”. Do it with a whole new intention, an intention of acknowledging the character of the gift giver. I attended a seminar where Joe Stumpf taught me to write the perfect thank you note. His directions were:

Start the Thank You note without saying, “Thank you for...” Instead make a statement about the character or virtue you most appreciate about the gift giver. Tell the gift giver a story of when you witnessed them exhibit this character trait. Finally, tell the gift giver how you or your life is different because they are so generous. As an example, I will share the note I wrote to Judy Smith, Editor of Sophie Woman’s Magazine for her many referrals. Dear Judy, You are authentic. People can trust you. I have observed you in many networking situations, on the job, and in personal one on one conversation and you never abandon your ideals of generosity, humor, and innovativeness. Just this week at the Catawba County Independent Business Owners meeting, you promoted others, made people laugh and shared your ideas freely. My life is richer and my work has gained influence due to you. Thank you for being my border booster. Vibrantly,Nicole Greer, PPCC

Grace Embrace what is offered here. Instead of simply saying thank you, you can live a life that shouts, “Life is full of grace!” “Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, and confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow.” -Melody Beattie Let’s get started.

Nicole Greer, PPCC is a professional life and business coach. At its deepest level,

working with a coach frees you to indentify your birthright gifts, discern your deepest passions, and fulfill your highest purpose. Principal Coach for Vibrant Coaching and

Workshop Leader for The Lydia Group, LLC, a collaboration of individuals focused on work, life and spiritual growth, Nicole is on a mission

to impact, energize, and influence people to lead a Vibrant Life by engaging the possibilities. As

a life and business coach, speaker and workshop leader, Nicole views her role as a conduit to

release all that you want to achieve. Join me on the PATH to move forward with authenticity, skill and confidence. www.thevibrantcoach.

com/www.thelydiagroup.com


If you are troubled by...hot flashes • headaches • insomnia • depression

food cravings • cramps • anxiety mood swings • bloating • chronic fatigue

750 4th Street SW Hickory, NC 28602

828-324-4115

Bio-Identical Hormonescan make a difference in your life!

www.thecompoundingrx.com

We offer FREE Lectures

and Individual Consultations

for bothMen and Women

The only PCAB Accredited pharmacy in Western North Carolina

Jan Mixon BSN, RN Bill Mixon R.PH, MS, C.D.E., CGP

1670 Southwest Blvd

Newton, NC 28658

Please call for advanced reservations between 9 am & 6 pm Phone: 828-464-5780 Fax: 828-464-5781 [email protected]

PeacockTHE

INN& Resort

Please call for advance reservations between 9 am & 5pm

www.thepeacockinn-newton.comPhone: 828.464.5780Fax: 828.464.5781

Special Bridal rates for January, February, & March, call for information.Let us make your dreams come true!

Book your Christmas Parties now...Christmas Party Banquet Hall Specials

Christmas Luncheon Specials Monday - Friday

We’re Offering:A STRESS FREE HOLIDAY SERVICE!

Is your room too crowded to decorate for the holidays?

Is it difficult to find your holiday decorations?

We will pick up your furniture that’s in the way of your holiday decorating, store and return it after the decorations come

down. We will also pick-up and store your decorations until next year.

FREE QUOTE828-851-4383


2120 Nor th C en ter S tr e e t Hi ck ory , NC

8 28-8 5 5-040 7

2 120 Nor th C en ter S tr e et H i ck ory , NC

828-8 5 5-040 7

An Artistic Twist on Rescued Home Goods!An Artistic Twist on Rescued Home Goods!

www . war eh ou s e 21 20 . c omwww . war ehou s e 212 0 . c om


for my business came from personal contacts. You simply never know if no one else knows what you aspire to and hope to do. The “Myself” part of You. What are you doing for yourself as a means of fun, fulfillment, curiosity or pure indulgence? How are you nurturing who you are as a person to take yourself away from the demands of work and family for a while to refresh, rejuvenate, recharge and relax? What makes you unique and how are you nurturing and embracing this aspect of you? How are you taking care of yourself physically, emotionally and spiritually? It is never selfish to carve out some regular time for you and only you. It is actually the greatest gift you can give to others because they will see a happier, more vibrant, confident, and healthy you. And then you will be able to give more in more meaningful ways because you are keeping your emotional, spiritual, and physical tank full. The “Inc.” part of You. What are you doing to nurture and grow as a professional or as a business owner? Are you stepping outside of your business or work to look at it from an outsider’s view or are you so busy working in the day-to-day of the business or your work that you cannot truly see what lies ahead and plan accordingly? Do you view your job as a job or a career? Do you view your work as tasks or fulfilling a higher purpose? Do you look forward to Mondays or the beginning of your work week or do you dread it? Are you laid off and feeling frustrated by the job prospects right now? If the Inc. part of you is not being satisfied, then it can have significant impact of the other two aspects of you. And if you are not truly swirling the other aspects of you into your Inc., then you may be missing opportunities that are right before your eyes. By focusing on the three aspects of who you are and allowing them to come to life, you are truly building a life that you love and enjoy which includes enjoying your work as well. I am thrilled to be helping you each month do this through this column.

Take the Synergy Quik Quiz to find out more about how your balance mindset may be holding you back. Go to www.memyselfandinc.com and click on the link in the right column of the home page. Download and print the PDF and see for yourself where you fall to begin making the shift.

Bio: Sherré DeMao inspires millions through her monthly Savvy Business Owner column, her weekly Monday Motivation & Insight and her national contributing writing for FoxBusiness.com, Entrepreneur, Women Entrepreneur, and Enterprising Women magazines. An expert strategist and marketer focused on entrepreneurs, her unique perspective and innovative approach has earned more than 50 awards regionally, nationally and internationally including being named among the Top 50 Enterprising Women of North America in 2007. Her first book, Me, Myself & Inc. - A Synergized World, An Energized Business, Living Your Ultimate Life (www.memyselfandinc.com), was cited as a Top Business Shelf pick by Midwest Book Review. Her next book, 50 Marketing Secrets of Growth Companies in Down Economic Times (www.50marketingsecrets.com) is to be released in fall of 2010.

It is my pleasure to be a new columnist for Sophie Woman’s Magazine. This column is all about and for YOU … The family, friends, and community you that sometimes feels pulled in all directions … the individual you that is oftentimes placed at the bottom of your priorities … and the professional, work you that strives to succeed and achieve in business. This first column will lay the groundwork for an entirely different approach to having it all and making your life and work more satisfying and fulfilling. So let’s begin shifting the way we think!

Are you working to have a life or is your work your life? Do you feel that you have lost a bit of yourself in attempting to keep everything flowing at home and at work? Are there things you want to do that continually get put on the back burner? Part of the problem may likely be that you are still in the mindset of trying to balance it all. I determined about 15 years ago that the whole work/life balance scenario simply doesn’t work. And here’s why. It is not about work and life but about YOU and who you are trying to be for yourself and others in your life. There are three aspects of you: Me, Myself and Inc.

Me = This is the family, friends and community you Myself = This is the individual youInc. = This is the business professional or work you

The reason work/life balance is so difficult to achieve is you cannot divide two by three. No wonder you feel pulled in all directions! Instead, I propose shifting to work/life synergy where you are swirling and embracing all three aspects of who you are into your work and life so they synergistically work together versus competing. Now doesn’t this sound much more exciting, guilt-free and rewarding? It does because it is. During these challenging times, it is very easy to get caught of up in the mindset that your work needs your uninterrupted attention in order to navigate the economic storm. While sacrificing time and enjoyment with family, friends, and yourself seems necessary temporarily for long-term gain, is it really the course of wisdom? On the flip side, you are feeling guilty about not spending as much time with family or perhaps you have been laid off or are seeking another position and are feeling frustrated by the lack of opportunities. Because of all of this happening, you simply do not do anything for yourself as this would be selfish considering the pressures right now. Sound familiar? Then it is time to acknowledge and nurture the three aspects of who you are and shift your thinking about achievement. Why? Because those who have done so have actually brought ingenuity, innovation, creativity, renewed thinking, new options and resources into their work and life while at the same time, truly enjoying their lives. They have realized a deep satisfaction and synergy that everyone benefits from, including those most important in their lives, simply by truly being all that they can be honoring the three aspects of who they uniquely are. Wouldn’t you like to experience the same? Let’s take a look at these three aspects more closely for you to see how important it is for all of them to be embraced and allowed to flourish. The “Me” part of You. How are you enjoying your family, friends and community? How are they a part of your life, enhancing it and participating in it? How are you a part of their lives, enhancing and participating in theirs? How are you involving or excluding your family, friends and community from what you are trying to accomplish in your work or life? Did you know that goals are seven times more likely to be achieved simply by sharing them with others? Think about this. The more who know, the more likely options and resources will come to light. Are you giving your family, friends, or coworkers an understanding of what you hope to achieve so they have the opportunity to strategize and participate? Some of the best ideas to help run my business more efficiently or to do something more profitably has not come from me, but from others who saw something I did not. Some of the most unexpected resources for my personal life came from business contacts and

Me, Myself, & Inc.By Sherré DeMao


Owner & Operator of The CORE Fitness Studio, NASCAR Coach, Mas-ter Fitness Instructor, Personal Trainer and Sports Nutritionist Wayne DeLoriea, One of NASCAR’s most successful and decorated coaches, certified in 79 countries around the world and author of Coach Without A Whistle joins forces with Healthy Lifestyles to help you realize your nutri-tion and fitness goals.

THE

MALEBOXby Wayne DeLoriea

Never to be the one to go the simple route and just do an article on the meaning of Thanksgiving… As a father, coach, writer and speaker I have always been troubled by what I think is my inability to communicate. I am always looking for the best way to say things. I understand that often, I only get one chance to impact a life and I agonize over my words and tone of my voice. I wonder about the positive impact and I regret my missed opportunities. I think about my words like a sniper considers his bullets. One shot, one kill. Too often, however, I have seen the look of confusion and it just pains me. As I drove to work this morning I had a thought. Its neither new, nor is it profound. It is not original, nor is it particularly sage. It just is…it’s truth and I think we, too often, forget it. If I may, please let me try my best to put the thought into words. The reason all of my relationships fell apart, up to meeting Linda, is that I was trying to love someone else. All of those ‘someone elses’ let me down. From the time I awoke to the time I slept again, I lived, breathed and made every decision based upon the feelings of someone else. I was nowhere to be found in the equation. As I read the Bible I found a passage that says,” love others as you love yourself”. If I may be so bold and presumptuous as to change a word or two in my effort to bring out the meaning, as it pertains to this subject. Love others through the love I have for myself. Look at others through the glasses I use to see myself, and until I like what I see, I have no reason to think I’ll find anyone who will like what they see in me. Does that make sense or are my words failing me again? If you don’t like yourself, others just CAN’T like you for long. They only get to see what you show. After awhile, you’ll start showing them…what you see. If I find no real lasting value in myself, how can I expect to give anything of lasting value to another person? If I can’t like ‘me’ how can I expect anyone else to? The truth is, if I hear you, I do so with MY ears and if I see you, I have to do it through MY eyes and if I love you… I can only love you through the love I have in myself. Too often, we find someone and try to love ourselves through them…that’s just backwards. That’s like going shopping with empty pockets. All you can hope to do is steal something… and thieves always get caught and end up with less than they started with. The thought that crossed my mind this morning was simply this. True love is when we don’t just love other people, but we love them through the love we have for ourselves. It’s not always wrong to go out of your way and do something for someone...something that you really don’t feel like doing. To do it repeatedly however, sets up a martyr situation and a “you owe me” and “I feel like I owe you” relationship. That’s NOT love. This kind of relationship has other friends like jealousy and abuse that come with it. A very wise friend once told me that I gave for all the wrong reasons. He told me that I was constantly giving to make others happy, when I should be giving to make ME happy. Let me explain. If I give you my pen…and this pen has been handed down from my grandfather to my father and then to me. Now, I see that you’re going through a difficult time and I want to make you happy…so I am giving you this special gift. Well, you didn’t know my grandfather and father, so the pen is just a pen

to you and when you look me in the eyes and crack a joke about the gift... I’m CRUSHED! My friend showed me that if I gave anything, it should be with the thought that, “It would make ME happy for you to have this pen.” Now, no matter what you say or do, I have accomplished my own happiness. I can’t make you happy…I can’t make you anything at all. That’s your job. All I can do is to let you know that I care and that I’m nearby. What I can do is please my own heart and in the process, if you’re willing…set the stage for you to please yourself by the way you receive the gift or in a relationship…receive me. I think the reason my relationship works with Linda, at least from my perspective, is that I work hard within my own heart to love me enough to keep all the doors open. Doors of commitment, truth, loyalty etc. and I think she does the same thing. When she strolls through the halls of my heart she feels welcome and free to go into any corner or recess and I feel the same. See, I am loving myself enough to trust that I am acceptable and worth loving. It’s because of this, that when I walk through the halls of her love, I am not looking for secrets and hidden things. I am looking at the beauty of her soul. It simply sets the stage for loving her…because I love me. I try to bring Linda flowers on the 14th of every month…and it makes ME feel good about ME. I love to see her reaction and I am very happy that it pleases her…but I feel good about ME. The mistake I used to make was trying to find someone else to love me, so I could love myself. I found my worth and acceptance in what others felt about me. I found my only joy in doing things for all the wrong reasons. I was too outwardly focused. I cared too much in what others felt and thought and not enough about how I felt about ‘me’. We all too often miss the ridiculously simple by thinking that nothing could be that easy…when in reality, everything that God has given us to do IS just that simple. We make it difficult by trying to over think things. You just can’t find a lasting relationship until you first find love and acceptance for yourself…within yourself. You’ll never know true love until you fall in love with yourself. If this strikes a chord for you and you find meaning in my words, you’re next and obvious question will be…how do I do it? Well. Remember, it’s simple. Do something for yourself…find out what YOU enjoy. Identify the things that have meaning to you. Learn what you do well…then step back and see the whole picture that is YOU. If you do this with honesty and heart…you can’t help but see something to love. Then, operate out of that love. It’ll take time, but what else have you got to do? Happy Thanksgiving! Coach


Your Thanksgiving Headquarters

Butcha Hut216 HWY 70 SW HickorY, Nc

Fresh Seafood

Available

Call 828-322-1184

EBT Accepted

Organic Chicken, Seafood, Buffalo, & Rabbit Available

All Major Credit Cards Accepted

Call One Day Ahead

Mon - Sat 9am - 7pm

Spend $50 Or More & Receive Our Buyer’s Rewards

TURKEYS / HAM / BEEF12-14 lb Spare Ribs

$1.59 lbFilet Mignon $10.49 lb10lbs Ground Chuck

$2.09 lb

BEAM FAMILY FARMS(BFF Beef)

Locally raised, grass grown, no hormones, no antibiotics. Raised the way nature

intended. You will love the difference.

WE GUARANTEE IT!Serving Him & Sharing With You!

BFFBeef .com

We Carry...

092009READER’S CHOICE

828.327.9680

WHAT WEBRING INTOYOUR HOME

CraigCurtis

Service • Maintenance Program • Installations


828.327.9680


CraigCurtis



828.327.9680


CraigCurtis


Steve WhiteMotorS

Steve White MotorS

Steve White MotorS

$19.98* “THE WORKS”Oil & Filter Service

Tire Rotations & 26-Point Inspection

Includes up to five quarts of Mopar Oil & new filter. Taxes and disposal fees extra. See Dealership for details. Some exceptions. Offer valid with coupon. Expires 11/30/10

1-800-779-3634 • 3470 HWY 70SE • EXIT 128 OFF 1-40 • HICKORY, NC • 828-324-4410

MelanieService Advisor

KimService Advisor

KarenParts Department

The Softer Side Of

Steve White Service


Beauty. Love. Pregnancy. Nurturing. Caring. Home. Hap-piness. Possibilities. Multi-Tasking. High Heels. Strength. Survivor. Wisdom. Selflessness. Intelligence. Freedom. Superhero. Supermodel. Tenacity. Children. Respect.

Being a WomanIs something to be thankful for!

A Woman’s View wants to be there every step of the way.Gynecology | Obstetrics | Primary Care

915 Tate Blvd Suite 170 | Hickory, NC | www.awomansview.com

Hours: Mon-Fri 8-1 and 2-5

828.345.1290


Girlfriends in GodP.O. Box 725

Matthews, NC [email protected]

Today’s Truth Psalm 138:2 “I will give thanks to your name for your unfailing love and faithfulness, because your promises are backed by all the honor of your name.”

Friend To Friend One of the first lessons we teach our children is to say “thank you” when receiving a gift or a compliment from someone. It is just good manners, right? When it comes to thanking God for all He has done in my life, my manners need a monumental overhaul. I am quick to lay my needs and concerns at His feet in prayer, but when those prayers are answered, I tend to get so wrapped up in the answer that I forget to thank the One who provided the answer. Can you relate? We are not alone. While Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem, he came to a small town where ten men who had a skin disease met him. They did not come close to Jesus but called to him, “Jesus! Master! Have mercy on us!” When Jesus saw the men, he said, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” As the ten men walked away, they were healed. When one of them saw that he was healed, he went back to Jesus, praising God in a loud voice. Then he bowed down at Jesus’ feet and thanked him. Jesus said, “Weren’t ten men healed? Where are the other nine? (Luke 17) We are quick to ask God to meet our needs but we sometimes forget to thank Him for doing so. While Thanksgiving does remind us to stop and give thanks, Thanksgiving is not just a national holiday to be celebrated for a few hours each November. Learning to live in the gear of perpetual thanksgiving is a life changing discipline. Giving thanks should be a natural characteristic and innate practice of every believer. We should be quick to thank God for all that He has done as well as for all He is presently doing and going to do in our life. That is where faith comes in. We may not always understand God’s process but we can always trust His heart. A thankful heart is a trusting heart. Learning to be thankful - even when we cannot see, hear or understand what God is doing or how He is working - is authentic thanksgiving and the direct result of a living, active and personal faith in God. It is said that in Africa there is a fruit called the “taste berry.” It changes a person’s taste so that everything eaten after eating the berry tastes good and

sweet. A thankful heart is the “taste berry” of an obedient life. When our heart is filled with gratitude, life is sweeter. Before you cut that turkey or eat that first bite of dressing, check your heart.

Let’s Pray Lord, I give thanks to You for You are good; Your love endures forever. You are with me so I will not be afraid. You are my strength and my song and my salvation. You have made this day so I will rejoice and be glad in it. You are my God and I will give You thanks. You are good and I will lift You up with my thanksgiving. Father, I praise You because You have conquered and taken away the sting of death. Today, I choose to give You thanks in all circumstances - no matter what - because I know it is Your will for me to praise You. Be lifted up, God, and be enthroned in the praises I bring.In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Now It’s Your Turn It may be Thanksgiving Day on the calendar but for some of us it is a dark and uncertain day. Remember that our inner attitude does not have to reflect our outer circumstances. We can choose to give God thanks and we can literally train our heart in an attitude of gratitude. Go back over the past year. What has God done in your life? Thank Him for each blessing that comes to mind. Thank Him for answered prayer, spiritual blessings, relational blessings, physical blessings and material blessings. Make a list of your blessings. Share them with family and friends. Make a new commitment today to cultivate a thankful heart.

More From The Girlfriends The Girlfriends in God team prays that you have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday! We pray that your table is full, that your family and friends are gathered together and that your home is a place of joy and your life an illustration of our living God! Gwen, Sharon and I thank God for you and this precious ministry we share as girlfriends in God and look forward to doing life with you in the days ahead. Blessings!

The Taste Berry by Mary Southerland


&TRUTHBEAUTY

by Teresa Pope, Esthetician

Please submit questions to Teresa Pope @ Alabaster Healing

221 1st. Ave. NW - Suite 207 Hickory, NC 28601 828-256-1081

© 2010 Vera Bradley Designs, Inc.

New! 2010 Holiday Ornaments Have a ball (five in all) with our handpainted and dated glass ornaments in winter colors

(Shown: Twirly Birds Pink). Each is presented in a coordinating, fabric-covered keepsake box.

Digital Hearing Aids•Custom Swim Plugs•

Hearing Protection•Earpieces for Sleeping•

Ipod / Cell Phone Earpieces•Shooters Filters•

Motorcycle Earpieces•Race Car Driver Sets•

Musician Filters•Free Hearing Test•

“Thank you for the quick and friendly service I received when I was getting ready for vacation and broke my hearing aid and also to find out I wasn’t even hearing with it. I can hear so much better now. Thank you for servicing it every three months to sure it stays working right. I recommend your service to anyone.” ~ Charlotte A. Hickory, NC

“Please see us before you buy!”

*Individual has not been compensated.

Question: I am 45 years old, but I feel like my eyes make me look much older. What can I do to have younger looking eyes?

Answer: There are many things that can make our eyes look older, and since I am not sure which problem or problems you have, I will cover the 4 most basic culprits. The complaint I hear most is CROW’S FEET. Crows feet are the lines on the outer corners of the eye. They are caused by smiling, laughing, squinting, and living life in general. A moisturizing eye cream will help to diminish their appearance, but it will only be temporary. Think of a dry dessert floor and it’s many cracks, when it rains you can no longer see the cracks, but as soon as it drys out again, they reappear. So keep your skin well hydrated to keep crows feet from showing as much. Other products, such as, retinoids (vitamin A) peptides, and antioxidants will help also. Another complaint I often hear is DARK CIRCLES. Dark circles can be caused by allergies, nasal congestion, not enough sleep, excessive rubbing, and other environmental factors, but the most common cause is simply the result of aging. Aging causes collagen loss and thinning of the skin, which in turn causes the blood vessels underneath the eyes to shine through, causing that blue hue. Vitamin K has shown some success in treating dark circles, but you have to use it everyday for several months before seeing results. Again, products containing retinol or the antioxidants C and E can also help. The next aging eye problem is BAGS. Bags are swollen, puffy eyes and are usually caused by the same culprits as dark circles; too little sleep, water retention, allergies, etc. However, for the most common cause, we can thank our parents. Heredity is the biggest factor in wether or not we have bags. Try products that contain caffeine and peptides. You may also want to try sleeping on an extra pillow, this will stop the water from pooling under the eye. If you have time in the mornings, place a slice of a cold cucumber on your eyes. The coolness of the cucumber will help the swelling and there is an ingredient in cucumbers that will temporarily tighten the skin. Then use a light reflecting concealer that will hide the shadows. I saved the hardest to fix for last, and that would be sagging upper lids also called HOODED LIDS. As we age the loss of collagen and thinning skin causes our lids to sag. Some people have a sag so pronounced that it can even block their peripheral vision. If this is the case with you, than some insurance companies will pay for you to have this fixed surgically. If your not so lucky, your only recourse would be to learn to apply your makeup to lift your eyes. Use a white, beige, or bone color over the entire eye and after you apply your other eye colors go back and apply an extra bright white at the brow bone. There are a few products that claim to lift, but to me the price of these products are not worth their small result. Don’t forget that today we don’t necessarily, need surgery to fix these problems, we have injectable fillers such as Restylane and Juvederm to put a buffer between the blue hue and the skin so the dark circles will not show. We also have Neurotoxins such as Botox and Dysport to help with crows feet and can also lift the brows to help with hooded lids. Today, you have many options to help you get the youthful eyes you desire.


Susan Guest, ASID is an award-winning interior designer in Hickory

and owner of Guest Interiors, LLC. She is one of the designers featured

in “Spectacular Homes of the Caro-linas”, found in high-end bookstores around the country. For more infor-

mation, visit www.guestinteriors.com.

by Susan Guest, ASID I know many artsy people who seem to navigate effortlessly through the design world of color, texture, space planning, and furnishings. These gifted souls can visualize a room in their head and easily get their ideas across to the builder or remodeler. Then there is the “visually challenged” individual who spends many agonizing hours going through furniture and hardware stores, magazines, and the internet. They are overwhelmed on making selections for a new home, office, or renovation project and are terrified of wasting time and, more importantly, money. How do you know when to hire a professional interior designer for your project? Here are some tips for knowing when to get help: • You and your spouse have opposite ideas or styles and neither refuses to budge. If you are sharpening your kitchen knives with murderous thoughts, please hire a pro. • You are involved with so many different activities and put off projects because your schedule is mind blowing. • You don’t like the items that are in the stores and want a polished look as seen in the shelter magazines. • You have made choices in the past that have not produced great results.

WHEN TO HIRE A PRO

• You are color blind. You may not know this-if your friends and coworkers gasp when they look at your clothing, you may need assistance on your home or office. • You like to dream about your space, but don’t quite know how to make it happen. • The project is too large and over-whelming for you to keep your sanity. • You just won the lottery and need help spending all that money. I know a great designer who has expensive taste who can help you with this dilemma. • You want your home or office to rock!

A great interior designer will base the entire project around your taste, needs, and desires. They will celebrate your uniqueness and awesomeness. Certified professionals are required to have annual educational requirements that keep them up to date on changes in the design field. They search for the best sources and bang for your buck. If you are up front about the budget for your project, the designer will try to get the very best solution that you can afford. Save your money and do it yourself if you are comfortable with your design abilities. If not, go to asid.org and find a qualified designer near you. You may need to visit websites and interview several designers before you find the right one to fit your needs.


Gobble Up This Turkey Trivia

Roughly 45 million turkeys are sold and cooked for Thanksgiving meals every year in the United States. As families dig into that delicious meal, some may wonder more about the delicious bird before them.

Here are some known and lesser-known facts about Tom Turkey.

* The taste of turkeys has to do with their age. An older male is preferable to a younger male, because the young “tom” is stringy. Conversely, younger female hens are preferred to older ones.

* A turkey less than 16 weeks old is called a fryer. An older turkey between 5 and 7 months of age is known as a roaster.

* Turkeys are a type of pheasant. They are the only breed of poultry native to the Western Hemisphere.

* Wild turkeys are able to fly for short durations and up to 55 mph. However, domesticated turkeys raised on farms for food are bred to be fat and meaty, which prevents their ability to get airborne.

* The turkey is no exception to other birds. Sometimes it likes to spend the night in trees.

* Benjamin Franklin was one person who argued vehemently on behalf of the turkey being the national symbol of America. However, as most know, the bald eagle won out.

* The first turkeys to domesticated were from Mexico and Central America. In Mexico, the turkey was a sacrificial bird.

* Male turkeys make the commonly known “gobble” sound, particularly during breeding seasons to attract a mate. Females, however, cluck.

* A mature turkey will have about 3,500 feathers. That’s a lot of plucking to do before the bird can be eaten.

* Minnesota and North Carolina produce the most turkeys for sale annually.

* The skin that hangs from a turkey’s neck is known as a wattle. The fleshy growth on the base of the beak is known as the snood.

* Every year 90 percent of Americans enjoy a turkey dinner for Thanksgiving, compared to 50 percent on Christmas.

* America doesn’t consume the most turkey per capita; Israel does.


FrontPorchThe by Judy Smith

© 2010 Vera Bradley Designs, Inc.

One Day Only: Holiday Tote! Friday, November 26 only, this unique tote in new Baroque

is our gift to you with a Vera Bradley purchase of $100 or more. Stop in and see all of Vera Bradley’s great gift ideas!

While in-stock quantities last. See a store associate for details.

Yo u r G i f t D e s t i n a t i o n

828-328-5599H o u r s : M o n - F r i 1 0 - 6

S a t 1 0 - 5 / C l o s e d S u nw w w . d e b o r a h s g i f t s . c o m

Visit us at our

NEW LOCATION IN VIEWMONT2440 North Center St, Hickory 28601

(across from Hobby Lobby in North Pointe Shopping Center)

Most of the time I am fretting over how fast technology changes and my struggle to keep up with it. It seems when I learn something new it changes and it boggles my feeble mind. I am always having to ask for help from someone just to cope with the day to day changes. A lot of the time, I just want to throw the computer out the door and go back to everything hand written. Well, maybe not hand written, since my handwriting is illegible to everyone but me; but at least back to typewriters. That is until, I get a marvelous piece of wisdom sent through the wonderful world of email. Like this one a friend sent me the other day. I opened it up to this beautiful message:

Be kinder than necessary, For everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle. Live simply, Love generously, Care deeply, Speak kindly, And pray continually. Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass... It’s about learning to dance in the rain.

Along with it was just a exquisite motion picture of rain falling and this woman dancing, with all abandonment, in the soft gentle rain of a summer

storm. It spoke to my heart and I had to just stop and ponder the reality of the saying and of the image. I even had to stop and give thanks for email! We all have our battles don’t we? Of course, ours is so very important…..until! We watched with awe and amazement at the miners rescue and what a miracle that was. How brave those men were and how they had to encourage each other, day after day. I wasn’t there, so I don’t know how rough it got but I can only imagine how it could have all ended another way. What if all of them only focused on themselves? What if each one of them thought they were more important than the others? There are some amazing human beings in this world that show such courage and compassion, even in their own times of difficulty. Actually, I know quite a few of those people and I am blessed to call them my friends. They amaze me and inspire me everyday. I could miss that if I was not careful. I have struggles and you have struggles. That is what that little message is telling us. We all do but it is what we do with those that make the difference. We could all sit down, hidden away, waiting for the storm to pass but how much life will pass us by while we do that. One of my very dear and sweet friends has just come through a storm but she did not sit down and just wait on it to pass. She danced right through. I know she was hurting and uncertain of the outcome but she didn’t let others see that. To them, they saw someone who didn’t have a care in the world. I wonder how many people passed her by without a second thought where as, if they only knew, would have helped her carry her groceries to the car. Maybe they would have stopped to say a kind word or a prayer. The point is, we don’t know. Be kinder than necessary? I guess I have to ask: how kind is necessary? Is that all I want to be? It is not but sometimes I don’t stop to think about it. Sometimes I just want to get through the day or the week or the storm…instead of dancing my way through…and if I am dancing, I want someone to dance with! Will you dance with me?


The Sophie Shopper

Body Rejuvenation

Dr. Garlitz828-322-1535garlitzorthodontics.com

Midway Carpet828-465-1033midwaycarpetdist.com

Fitness / GymsHighland Recreation Dept.828-326-5000hickorygov.comThe Perfect Workout828-465-4055theperfectworkout.net

JewelryThe Bisanar Company828-322-5090bisanar.com

Medical / Health Care

Compounding Pharmacy828-324-4115thecompoundingrx.com

Frye Medical Center828-315-3391fryemedctr.com

A Woman’s View828-345-0800awomansview.com

Medicap Pharmacy828-466-1500medicap.com

Photography

Retail

Pure Reflections828-345-1290purereflection.com

InsuranceState FarmNewton 828-466-3888Hickory 828-324-9333

YMCA828-464-6130ymcacv.org

Anti-Aging ~ Immune Support ~ Heart HealthStress ~ Mood ~ & Sleep

Shaklee CenterAge-Related Nutritional Products

Maria GoldsteinHealth & Wellness Coach

828.328.1829/866.637.8870mgoldstein-healthy@embarqmail.comwww.livingsolutions.myshaklee.com

Automotive

Dental Care

Scrapbooking

Pam Starnes (828) 327-4090www.mycmsite.com/pamstarnes

Customized Scapbooks For:*Weddings

*Anniversaries*Senior Year/Athlete

*Celebrations of all kinds*Memorials for loved ones

Event Centers / Family Fun

The Peacock Inn828-464-5780thepeacockinn-newton.com

Shutterbuggerz828-466-0122shutterbuggerz.com

Hair Accessories Chic Wigs828-324-5375chic-wigs.com

Physicians Plan Weight Loss828-485-2833physiciansplan.com

Catawba Furniture Mall1-866-702-7361catawbafurniture.com

Hickory Plastic Surgery828-322-8380hickoryplasticsurgery.com

Brand Jewelry828-478-4800Mooresville NC

Barbara’s Hearing828-322-4750barbarashearing.com

2 Pink Magnolias828-466-19762pinkmagnolias.com

Style Exchange828-267-7200styleexchangeofhickory.com

Shoppes On Falls828-313-2119Granite Falls

Gigi’s Consignment Boutique704-732-0085 / 828-464-0888Downtown Newton

Statesville Civic Center(704) 878-3493ci.statesville.nc.us

Advanced Vein Center828-322-8485Graystone Place, Hickory

Steve White Automotive(888) 827-3721stevewhitemotors.net

SkinLogix828-291-2213skinlogixofhickory.com

Hair Care / Hair Salons

Furniture / Home Decor

Jillybean’s CreationsCustom Made Gift Baskets

Home-made Cakes, Brownies, Candy, and CookiesHand Crafted Greeting Cards and Gift Tags

Also, Home-made Jams & Jellies

828-729-2078 www.jillybeanscreations.com

POKKA DOTSFAMILY CONSIGNMENT

Mon - Fri: 9:00 - 5:30Sat: 10:00 - 3:00

(828) 267-02001510 16th St. NE Hickory, NC

Sandy Ridge Rd

Quality Consignment for Infants, Children, & Mothers-to-be, Baby Equipment, Toys & Bikes

Catawba Surgical Associates828-322-8485Conover, NC

Union Square Emporium324-SHOPusehickory.com

Cosmetics

CoPak Solutions828-261-0255copaksolutionsinc.com

Food/Groceries

Josh’s On The Square828-324-JOSHjoshsonunionsquare.com

Restaurants

Warehouse 2120828-855-0407warehouse2120.com

Horizon Surgical Specialist828-758-5501Lenoir, NC

Wild Birds Unlimited828-441-2473hickory.wbu.com

Pets / Animal Care

Medical / Health Care (cnt’d)

Gifts / Gift Baskets

Dana’s Fine Jewelry828-466-1999danasfinejewelryinc.com

Hickory Dickory Dock(828) 322-3625hickorydickorydock.net

Strandz Salon828-261-0035Hickory, NC

Cafe Gouda828-267-1300cafegouda.com

Foothills Internal Medicine(828) 322-3898foothillsinternalmed.com

Advertise Here Starting At $20/Month - Call 828-466-0122

Joy HeffingerStylist / Color Specialist

2613 N. Center St. Hickory NC 28601

Certified In:Brazilian Blowout &

Keratin ComplexSmoothing Therapy

H a i r S a l o nKelly & Co.

828-228-0552

Licensed Insurance Agent 828-640-1344

IIS000071

Susan M MedesLicensed Insurance Agent 828-640-1344

IIS000071

Susan M MedesSue Medes 828-640-1344 [email protected]

Child Care

USDA Food Program•State Licensed•Three Secured Outdoor •Play Areas

Infants $140Toddlers $1302-3 yrs. $1254-5 years $120

Fundraising Opportunities Available

704-881-8557Let me assist you in making all your

career dreams come true!

Shawn Geiser Photography828-234-2792shawngeiserphotography.com

Beauticontrol / Nancy Jones828-459-2424beautipage.com/nancy101

Simply Sylvia Personal ChefSmall Event Cateringchefsylvia.com 828-433-2860

Classic TouchAuto Wash, Inc.

2121 Hwy 70 SE Hickory, NC 28602 “A Full Service Car Wash”

828-322-8938

Alterations

Sherry’s Sew ‘n SewA l t e r a t i o n s & C u s t o m C l o t h i n g

From wedding gowns, formal wear, prom, and pageants, to baby rompers, doggie coats, or a Batman costume for a horse, I can sew it!

sil [email protected] Sigmon 828-302-2107 105 West K Street Newton NC 28658

Catering

Nail Care

Experience the Diva Difference! 2103 Catawba Valley Blvd. SE • Hickory, NC Call for Appointment 828-431-2331 M-F 10-8 / Sat 10-6

Choice Weight Loss Spa828-855-3553Hickory NC

Lou Lou’s Corner(828) 324-7655loulouscorner.com

LeGrande Learning Center(828) 327-4422legrandelearning.com

Canella Heating & Air828-327-9680canellaheatingandair.com

Deborah’s Gracious Gifts828-328-5599deborahsgifts.com

Taste Full Beans828-325-0108tastefullbeans.com

Buthca Hut828-322-1184Conover, NC

Newton-Conover Auditorium828-464-8100newtonconoverauditorium.org

LeGrande Salon & Day Spa(828) 327-9949legrandesalon.com

Professional Cleaners828-324-6032Hickory, NC

Education

Dry Cleaner

Heating & Air


The Sophie Shopper

Body Rejuvenation

Dr. Garlitz828-322-1535garlitzorthodontics.com

Midway Carpet828-465-1033midwaycarpetdist.com

Fitness / GymsHighland Recreation Dept.828-326-5000hickorygov.comThe Perfect Workout828-465-4055theperfectworkout.net

JewelryThe Bisanar Company828-322-5090bisanar.com

Medical / Health Care

Compounding Pharmacy828-324-4115thecompoundingrx.com

Frye Medical Center828-315-3391fryemedctr.com

A Woman’s View828-345-0800awomansview.com

Medicap Pharmacy828-466-1500medicap.com

Photography

Retail

Pure Reflections828-345-1290purereflection.com

InsuranceState FarmNewton 828-466-3888Hickory 828-324-9333

YMCA828-464-6130ymcacv.org

Anti-Aging ~ Immune Support ~ Heart HealthStress ~ Mood ~ & Sleep

Shaklee CenterAge-Related Nutritional Products

Maria GoldsteinHealth & Wellness Coach

828.328.1829/866.637.8870mgoldstein-healthy@embarqmail.comwww.livingsolutions.myshaklee.com

Automotive

Dental Care

Scrapbooking

Pam Starnes (828) 327-4090www.mycmsite.com/pamstarnes

Customized Scapbooks For:*Weddings

*Anniversaries*Senior Year/Athlete

*Celebrations of all kinds*Memorials for loved ones

Event Centers / Family Fun

The Peacock Inn828-464-5780thepeacockinn-newton.com

Shutterbuggerz828-466-0122shutterbuggerz.com

Hair Accessories Chic Wigs828-324-5375chic-wigs.com

Physicians Plan Weight Loss828-485-2833physiciansplan.com

Catawba Furniture Mall1-866-702-7361catawbafurniture.com

Hickory Plastic Surgery828-322-8380hickoryplasticsurgery.com

Brand Jewelry828-478-4800Mooresville NC

Barbara’s Hearing828-322-4750barbarashearing.com

2 Pink Magnolias828-466-19762pinkmagnolias.com

Style Exchange828-267-7200styleexchangeofhickory.com

Shoppes On Falls828-313-2119Granite Falls

Gigi’s Consignment Boutique704-732-0085 / 828-464-0888Downtown Newton

Statesville Civic Center(704) 878-3493ci.statesville.nc.us

Advanced Vein Center828-322-8485Graystone Place, Hickory

Steve White Automotive(888) 827-3721stevewhitemotors.net

SkinLogix828-291-2213skinlogixofhickory.com

Hair Care / Hair Salons

Furniture / Home Decor

Jillybean’s CreationsCustom Made Gift Baskets

Home-made Cakes, Brownies, Candy, and CookiesHand Crafted Greeting Cards and Gift Tags

Also, Home-made Jams & Jellies

828-729-2078 www.jillybeanscreations.com

POKKA DOTSFAMILY CONSIGNMENT

Mon - Fri: 9:00 - 5:30Sat: 10:00 - 3:00

(828) 267-02001510 16th St. NE Hickory, NC

Sandy Ridge Rd

Quality Consignment for Infants, Children, & Mothers-to-be, Baby Equipment, Toys & Bikes

Catawba Surgical Associates828-322-8485Conover, NC

Union Square Emporium324-SHOPusehickory.com

Cosmetics

CoPak Solutions828-261-0255copaksolutionsinc.com

Food/Groceries

Josh’s On The Square828-324-JOSHjoshsonunionsquare.com

Restaurants

Warehouse 2120828-855-0407warehouse2120.com

Horizon Surgical Specialist828-758-5501Lenoir, NC

Wild Birds Unlimited828-441-2473hickory.wbu.com

Pets / Animal Care

Medical / Health Care (cnt’d)

Gifts / Gift Baskets

Dana’s Fine Jewelry828-466-1999danasfinejewelryinc.com

Hickory Dickory Dock(828) 322-3625hickorydickorydock.net

Strandz Salon828-261-0035Hickory, NC

Cafe Gouda828-267-1300cafegouda.com

Foothills Internal Medicine(828) 322-3898foothillsinternalmed.com

Advertise Here Starting At $20/Month - Call 828-466-0122

Joy HeffingerStylist / Color Specialist


Certified In:Brazilian Blowout &

Keratin ComplexSmoothing Therapy


828-228-0552

Licensed Insurance Agent 828-640-1344

IIS000071

Susan M MedesLicensed Insurance Agent 828-640-1344

IIS000071

Susan M MedesSue Medes 828-640-1344 [email protected]

Child Care

USDA Food Program•State Licensed•Three Secured Outdoor •Play Areas

Infants $140Toddlers $1302-3 yrs. $1254-5 years $120

Fundraising Opportunities Available

704-881-8557Let me assist you in making all your

career dreams come true!

Shawn Geiser Photography828-234-2792shawngeiserphotography.com

Beauticontrol / Nancy Jones828-459-2424beautipage.com/nancy101

Simply Sylvia Personal ChefSmall Event Cateringchefsylvia.com 828-433-2860

Classic TouchAuto Wash, Inc.

2121 Hwy 70 SE Hickory, NC 28602 “A Full Service Car Wash”

828-322-8938

Alterations

Sherry’s Sew ‘n SewA l t e r a t i o n s & C u s t o m C l o t h i n g

From wedding gowns, formal wear, prom, and pageants, to baby rompers, doggie coats, or a Batman costume for a horse, I can sew it!

[email protected] Sigmon 828-302-2107 105 West K Street Newton NC 28658

Catering

Nail Care

Experience the Diva Difference! 2103 Catawba Valley Blvd. SE • Hickory, NC Call for Appointment 828-431-2331 M-F 10-8 / Sat 10-6

Choice Weight Loss Spa828-855-3553Hickory NC

Lou Lou’s Corner(828) 324-7655loulouscorner.com

LeGrande Learning Center(828) 327-4422legrandelearning.com

Canella Heating & Air828-327-9680canellaheatingandair.com

Deborah’s Gracious Gifts828-328-5599deborahsgifts.com

Taste Full Beans828-325-0108tastefullbeans.com

Buthca Hut828-322-1184Conover, NC

Newton-Conover Auditorium828-464-8100newtonconoverauditorium.org

LeGrande Salon & Day Spa(828) 327-9949legrandesalon.com

Professional Cleaners828-324-6032Hickory, NC

Education

Dry Cleaner

Heating & Air


Leanne Ely is a New York Times bestselling author of Body Clutter and the Sav-ing Dinner series. The Dinner Diva syndicated newspaper column appears in 250 newspapers nationwide. Learn how to cook great and save significant money with the Dinner Diva?s menus, recipes and shopping lists at www.savingdinner.com

As the telltale chill in the air signals the onset of fall, it’s time to getout those comfort food recipes. Nothing beats a hearty meal at the end of acrisp fall day. Menu planning when the weather changes can be a lot of fun,but the work involved in a lot of cold-weather dishes can be staggering. Chicken and dumplings is a fall classic but it’s loaded with calories fromthe chicken skin and doughy dumplings. Just because it is comfort food doesnot mean it has to be unhealthy though. The key to making this recipe healthier is using skinless chicken breasts so you can bypass the oily skin and dark meat. Extra seasonings enhance theflavor so you don’t notice anything is missing and low fat biscuit mix savessome time. Here is a simpler and healthier way to make chicken and dumplings in a snap.

Chicken Dumplings the Saving Dinner WayServes 6

4 skinless chicken breasts (better with the bone in)4 cans low-sodium chicken broth1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil1 sweet onion, chopped fine2 celery stalks, chopped fine1 garlic clove, crushed and peeled1/2 cup carrot, shredded3 teaspoons dried thyme leaves1 teaspoon dried sageSalt and Pepper2 cups whole grain baking mix2/3 cup skim milk

In a large stock pot, put 1 tablespoon olive oil, add onion, garlic, carrot,and celery, cook until onion is clear, then place chicken breasts in pot,and cover with water and poach (slow simmer) until chicken is cooked through-- about 15 to 20 minutes. Remove the chicken and cut into bite sized pieces then return chicken to the pot. Add chicken broth, thyme and sage --salt and pepper to taste. Bring back to a gentle simmer. If needed you canthicken broth with a little cornstarch by putting a teaspoon of cornstarchinto 1/2 cup water or broth and mixing with fork until there are no lumps.Add to simmering pot and stir. Meanwhile prepare the dumplings by mixing the low fat biscuit mix and skim milk until it forms a soft dough. Drop bytablespoonfuls into the simmering broth. Cook uncovered for about twentyminutes or until dumplings appear cooked in the middle.

Variations: Try using Noodle Dumplings

2 1/2 cups whole wheat pastry flour2 teaspoons salt2 eggs1/3 cup water1 teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil

In a large mixing bowl combine all ingredients with a fork until combined.Roll into a ball. If too wet add more flour, if too dry add a bit more water. Roll out dough on a floured surface. Use a pizza cutter to cut dumplings into desired shape. You can cut them into long fat noodles, or you can use a cookie cutter and make round dumplings, it’s up to you!

Chicken & Dumplings

The Dinner Diva


��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

LOOK & FEEL YOUR BEST EVERY DAY!

WIGS BOUTIQUESpecializing in fitting Chemotheraphy Patients and others experiencing hair loss.

any regular priced wig with this ad

SAVE 15%OFF

Not valid in conjunction with any other offers. Offer expires Dec. 31, 2010.

Visit us at Valley Hills Mall

1960 Highway 70 SE | Hickory, NCTel: 828-324-5375

© 2010 Medicap Pharmacies Incorporated, a Cardinal Health company. All rights reserved.

Your health is important to us, that’s why your local Medicap Pharmacy® wants to remind you during the holidays to not overeat and sway from a regular diet meant to maintain healthy cholesterol levels and prevent heart attacks. For those patients taking prescribed cholesterol medicine, it is important to take medications as prescribed especially during the holidays. Visit us today and receive expert advice on all of your medications and answers for you and your family.

Melinda Travis, R.Ph.401 West A StreetNewton, NC828.466.1500

Ron Harwell, R.Ph317 East 1st StreetConover, NC 828.464.4491

Remember to watch your cholesterol during the holidays.

FOR MISSIONS

Nov 13, 2010Time : 8 AM - 2 PM

Our FAMOUS hard candy, fiber arts, jewelry, pottery, canned and baked

goods, collectibles, Christmas goodies, and many more handcrafted items.

Breakfast and lunch will also be served. All proceeds go to mission outreach.

Event Sponsored By:First Church of God

306 14th St. S.W.Hickory, NC 28601

828-322-1621


Shutterbuggerz.com

Photo Submitted byCapture Life Photography

1 2 3 4


Shutterbuggerz.com

“Life is not measured by the number of breaths you take, but by the moments

that take your breath away.”

how this worksEach month our readers are going to submit photos to us via our web site or email. During that month, visitors to our web site at shutterbuggerz.com will vote on their favorite photo(s). Each month, the winning photographer (professional and amateur) will receive a prize.

Prizes:Professional photographers will receive a free 1/4 page ad space in the next issue of Sophie Woman’s Magazine. The amateur winner will receive a $25 Gift Certificate to a local restaurant of their choosing. Promotional apparel provided by:

Please read the submission guidelines and disclaimers on our web site at shutterbuggerz.com.

...together we can make an impressionSince 1982 we have been making impressions in:

Promotional Products•Corporate Gifts and Awards•Embroidered Apparel•Screened Printed T-shirts•New Digital Garment Printing•Online Company Stores•and almost anything else that has a logo•

(800)728-6001 (704)735-5347PO Box 634, Lincolnton, NC 28093Laser Printing

Photos Submitted By:1. Kyla Vance2. Tony L. Moore Photoraphgy3. Mommy & Me Photography4. Dawn Wilson5. David Prewitt Photography6. Lisa Reeves7. Cassie Hansley8. Rachel Lee Carter9. Tonya Lowman

5

6

7

8

9


Photo Submitted by:Mary C. Garren

1

2

5

4

Photos Submitted By:1. Dawn Wilson2. Dan Chernesky3. Forever Memories Photography4. Rachel Lee Carter5. Mary C. Garren

Enter Your Photos At shutterbuggerz.com

3


828-322-8360 or 800-665-1244 www.HickoryPlasticSurgery.com

Enter to win our Bride of the Year Contest for 2011Our 2010 Bride of the Year Won

Over $5000 Worth of Prizes!!

Brought to You By

It’s Fun, It’s Easy, & It’s FREE.......Go to www.sophiewomansmagazine.com or find us on Facebook and enter for your chance to be the Bride of the Year and win thousands of dollars worth of prizes. You will also be featured at our 2011 Bridal Show and in an issue of Sophie Woman’s Magazine.

Make Your Special Occasion Even More Memorable!

Woman’s Magazine

The 2011 Bridal Event will beheld at the:

Gateway Conference Center

April 3rd, 2011 - 1pm to 4pmWe are now taking applications for vendors.

For more information call 828-466-0122 or send anemail to [email protected]

Hickory, NC


Photo Submitted by:Capture Life Photography

&Kid Drop

Thanksgiving Christmas Break

TheFUN

Daycare

6AM - 6PMRodney Pyatt

Certified Educator

828-322-DOCKhickorydickorydock.net

Now Accepting Applications For

SUMMER CAMPONLY 100 SPACES

AVAILABLE

RESERVEYOUR SPOT

NOW!!!

CAMP TICKERSEASON PASSFAMILY OF 4 - $250Have Your Own Tickerwood “Star of Fame”


Photo Submitted by:Heather Davis

Photo Submitted by:Elements Photography

Photo Submitted by:Cheryl Yoder


Photos Submitted By:1. Sonya Hines Photography2. Forever Memories Photography3. David Prewitt Photography4. Belinda Greene5. Alisha Storey

View Even More Photos At

shutterbuggerz.com

Photo Submitted by:Allen Hardin

1

5

4

2

3


“where every child is a story untold”LeGrande Learning Center

Visit our new website to learn more about Le Grande Learning Center and our introductory offer.

w w w. l e g r a n d e l e a r n i n g . c o mTuition includes our enhanced curriculums featuring Art, Science, Spanish,

Music, and Jump Bunch classes each weekFull Week Programs, 2-Day Programs, 3-Day Programs, After School,

Summer Camp, Tutoring, Parents Night Out3720 North Center Street Hickory, NC 28601 • (828) 327-4422

252 Third Ave. NW Hickory, NC, 28601

828-855-3553 Le GrandeS a l o n & D a y S p a

252 Third Avenue NW Hickory NC 28601828.327.9949 / www.legrandesalon.com


Photo Submitted By:Capture Life Photography

Photo Submitted By:Christian Eidson

Photo Submitted By:Gragg Photography


Photo Submitted By:Debbie Few

Photo Submitted By:Michelle Tomlin

Photo Submitted By:Tony L. Moore Photography


Photo Submitted by:Cheryl Yoder

Photo Submitted by:Judi Bleiss

Photo Submitted by:KCH Photography

Photo Submitted by:Kasey James


Shoppes On FallsVintage Home Decor & Furniture

26 Falls Ave, Granite Falls, NC 28630 Open Thurs - Sat 10am - 5pm

Visit Us Online At www.shoppesonfalls.com Call Us For More Info At 828-313-2119

Antique & New Furniture•Seasonal Wreaths & •

ArrangementsWall Plaques•Pictures & Mirrors•Bedding & Window •

CoveringsLamps•Luxury Soaps•Jams & Honey•.... and MORE!!!•

Fall in Love… with Shoppes on Falls for all your home decor & furniture needs. Our shoppe resides in a lovely historic home in quaint downtown Granite Falls, NC. You must come see this beautifully decorated shoppe full of gorgeous items ready to make a place in your home or as a gift for a loved one.

Follow Us OnFacebook @shoppesonfalls

OMG! Has it already been a year???One year ago me and my mother-n-law joined forces to open a small home décor business in downtown Granite Falls, NC. Some of you might be thinking…Your mother-n-law… are you crazy??? If you’ve ever met Sally you would know she is the most wonderful person in the world who has become one of my closest friends and prayer warrior. If she’s not at the shop working, she is out spending time with her 7 grandchildren, of which 2 are mine.But on with my story, one year ago we took a huge leap of faith to start this small shop. Neither of us has any experience but we both have a passion for beautiful things in our homes. I use to sit at a desk all day as a programmer analyst, having a hard time concentrating on my work because I was dreaming of the things I could do with my own home to make it more homey and beautiful. Most of my lunch breaks were spent shopping for home décor or looking for the next greatest place to shop. At the time, I had no idea that one day I’d be working in one of the best places to find beautiful and affordable home décor.Sally had the dream and the place to start our shop. I had that extra push and confidence to get it off the ground. Then we blinked... and a whole year has flown by. We are learning as we go and loving every minute of it. SO….please come out this month of November to help us celebrate our One Year Anniversary. There will be hot apple cider and goodies waiting for you. Hope to see you soon! Wendy W. Perry

Elements Photography

828-381-4127 www.elementsbytabithagoforth.com

Hours by appointment

only.


Photo Submitted by:Melissa Cockman Photography

1

Photos Submitted By:1. Outdoor Imaging2. Shawn Geiser Photography3. Jennifer Harris4. Jessica Horton5. Vanna Abernathy

2

3

4

5


Photo Submitted by:Christian Eidson

Photo Submitted by:Melissa Cockman Photography

Photo Submitted by:ten9photography

Photo Submitted by:KCH Photography

Photo Submitted by:ten9photography


Photo Submitted by:Angie Price

Photo Submitted by:Judi Bleiss

shutterbuggerz.com


fine coffee • gourmet sandwiches & delicatessen

Si t Back…Relax…

Have a Gouda Time!

Café Gouda CateringChoose from

Our Special Catering or Regular Menu Options

Belle Hollow Shopping Center2960 N. Center Street Hickory, NC 28601

828-267-1300 www.cafegouda.comOpen 7am – 9pm Mon–Sat, 8am – 4pm Sun

Joy Heffinger828-228-0552

Amber Starnes828-308-5325



NOW OFFERING...

Also offering: color ~ Perms ~ cuts up-dos ~ extensions ~ make-up


...... to join us for this exciting, energetic networking group. Meeting every second and fourth Monday of each month. Meetings will start at 6pm. For more information visit www.wewinusa.com.

Our Mission“To Provide An Environment Where Women Empower and Support Each Other’s Growth, Success, and Visions!”

www.wewinusa.com

nvited

Turkey Leftovers The Family Will Want to Eat

It’s easy to have leftover turkey once the Thanksgiving holiday has passed. Many people mis-calculate the number of pounds of turkey they need to feed the family, or an excess of side dishes makes Tom Turkey less of the culinary centerpiece he should be. Don’t worry if you’re one of the people left with an abundance of turkey. There are plenty of ways to turn it into delicious meals to be enjoyed for several days after the holiday. To enjoy turkey leftovers, first the remaining turkey should be prepared and stored so it can be safely eaten later on. This means that turkey should be deboned and packed up for storage no later than two hours after the bird has been served, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service. Generally, leftover turkey can be enjoyed 3 to 4 days after Thanksgiving if it is refrigerated. If the meat is frozen, it can last much longer. Now comes the time to whip up delicious recipes from that remaining turkey. Here are some ideas to whet the appetite.

* Turkey chili: Combine the meat with kidney beans, red and green peppers, onions, pureed tomato and a package of chili seasonings from the supermarket. Let simmer and serve with corn bread or over rice.

* Turkey kabobs: Thread turkey on skewers with apples, pears or pineapples. Bake until meat is reheated and fruit is soft.

* Turkey gyro: Top pitas with turkey meat, lettuce, onion, and fresh tzatziki sauce. Tzatziki is made by mixing chopped cucumber, garlic and lemon juice with a thick Greek yogurt.

* Turkey omelets: Chop up turkey and add it to the egg mixture when making omelets. Serve with toast spread with cranberry sauce.

* Turkey pot pie: Line a pie tin with homemade or store-bought pie crust. Add the turkey, half a can of cream of chicken soup, a package of thawed mixed vegetables, and the remaining pie crust. Bake until the pot pie is bubbly and hot.

* Turkey Mexican-style: Replace the meat in tacos, fajitas or enchiladas with leftover turkey.

* Buffalo turkey pizza: Toss leftover turkey with melted butter and hot sauce. Use the seasoned meat on top of a homemade or pre-made pizza. Bake and enjoy.

* Turkey-tossed pasta: Add strips of turkey to a dish of pasta, topped with a favorite sauce.

* Turkey panini: Slice a thick, crusty bread and spread the outsides with butter. Add layers of turkey, cheese and cooked bacon. Cook on a griddle, using a heavy pan to hold the panini flat while cooking. Flip over and continue to cook until panini is golden brown and cheese is melted.

* Pulled pork-style turkey: Chop up or pull apart leftover turkey meat. Toss with your favorite barbe-cue sauce. Serve on soft sandwich buns with a side of cole slaw.

* Turkey salad sandwich: Mix chopped turkey with mayonnaise or salad dressing, diced celery, onions, and shredded carrots for a refreshing cold sandwich filling.

* Turkey and vegetable stir-fry: Heat a wok or skillet with a little oil and saute onions, garlic and favorite stir-fry vegetables. Add the turkey to heat and season with soy sauce or teriyaki. Serve over steamed rice.


COMPASSIONATE QUALITY CARE

PRIMARY CARE FOR ADULTS

Treatment For:■ General Health Maintenance■ High Blood Pressure■ Diabetes - “Insulin Pumps”■ Reflux Disease

& Intestinal Problems■ Emphysema/COPD Disorders■ Mole Removal■ High Cholesterol■ Acute Illness (sinusitis,

bladder infections, etc.)

JENNIFER WOODSTOCK PA-CGERRI MORRISON FNP-BC

Same Day Urgent Care NeedsYearly Physical Exams & Follow Up Appointments

Proven Weight Loss Program

ACCEPT MEDICARE& MOST OTHER INSURANCE

NO REFERRAL NEEDED

NEW EXTENDED OFFICE HOURSHICKORY

MON-THUR 9:00-6:00FRIDAY 9:00-1:00

HUDSONMON-TUE-WED-FRI 9:00-6:00

THURSDAY 9:00-1:00

BY APPOINTMENT OR EMERGENCY BASIS

Hickory1321 N Center St.

(Located in Viewmont Square)

828-322-3898

Hudson286 Pine Mountain Road

828-728-1998

For moreinformation seeour website

foothillsinternalmed.com

foothillsinternalmed.com

VF

64

63

63

2Lisa’s

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSECome to our

Nov 6th ~ Nov 7th

Belle Hollow Shopping Center3022B N Center St, Hickory, NC

(828) 327-3085

Mention this ad for 20% OFF regular priced merchandise. Not valid with Sale or Promotional items. Expires 11/30/10

Save Money on Taxes By Donating to Charity

We’ve all heard the saying about nothing being certain but death and taxes. As the calendar year comes to a close, many people might be thinking about how to reduce their taxable income from 2010. Charitable giving is one way to pay less in taxes. In many cases, tax-deductible charitable giving can save a person con-siderable amounts of money in the long run. The added bonus is that it can feel good to give as well. Making charitable donations can save a person thousands in tax dollars, provided the correct steps are taken.

1. Ensure the charity is a tax-exempt organization eligible to receive tax-deductible donations.

2. Be sure to keep all receipts for charitable giving throughout the year. Generally donations less than $250 can be recorded with a cancelled check. Other donations will need a written acknowledgment from the charity.

3. Itemize donations when filing tax returns. If non-cash donations were given (such as clothing or automobiles) be sure to complete the applicable tax form.

4. Figure out the fair market value of items being donated that aren’t cash. This will help determine the value of the charitable deduction when it’s time to file a tax return.

5. Address any questions concerning charitable donations to a knowledge-able tax preparer or accountant.


Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.®

offering:Automotive Insurance • Homeowners Insurance •

Health & Disability • Life & Annuities • Business Insurance

Jackie Weaver55 NW Blvd (Hwy 321)

Newton, NC 28658(O) 828-466-3888(F) 828-466-3999

[email protected]

Lisa Forte’732 Lenoir-Rhyne Bld SE

Hickory, NC 28602(O) 828-324-9333(F) 828-324-9777

[email protected]*Average annual per household savings based on a national 2008 survey of new policyholders who reported savings by switching to State Farm.

828-324-6032133 3rd St NW - Downtown Hickory

DON’T LET THE BED BUGS BITE

Bed bugs are a national epidemic. We know how to solve this unhealthy pesky problem. If you suspect that any of your items are infested with bed bugs, bring them to us in tightly sealed plastic bags and we’ll take care of the rest.


Black Friday is one of the busiest shopping days of the year. Every year thousands of shoppers flock to area malls and shopping centers in the wee hours of the morning attempting to get the best deals on their holiday gifts. Because shopping with the crowds and sales can be confusing, setting a “Black Friday” shopping strategy can add some organization to the chaos. Visions of Black Friday shopping may call to mind frenzied shoppers beating down the doors of area stores to get heavily reduced prices at the register. This day of bargain basement deals certainly will bring out scores of people, but there is a way to manage the mayhem.

* Make a shopping list. Think ahead of time about what to look for. Know-ing what will be bought can help shoppers determine which stores to visit. It helps to only choose one or more stores at which to shop instead of traveling all over and getting caught in traffic.

* Preview ads a week in advance. Many stores will start advertising their Black Friday hours and some sneak peaks at sales a week or more in advance. There could also be some “spoiler” Web sites that leak informa-tion about Black Friday sales. Shoppers can know what’s available and plan their shopping accordingly. Also, some stores have “rules” to follow, such as wristband dispersal or a numbering system, for shoppers to avoid crowds rushing the doors.

* Start saving early. While deals are to be realized on Black Friday, that doesn’t mean it’s wise to blow the entire budget on this day alone. Save

months or weeks in advance to be prepared for shopping this day. Set a limit on what is to be spent -- heading home after the money is gone.

* Get rest. Set an early schedule for Thanksgiving revelry so that it’s pos-sible to head home early enough to rest. Those who plan to do Black Friday shopping should head to bed early enough, considering many sales begin at 4 a.m.

* Eat a hearty breakfast. Shoppers should be sure to eat breakfast so they’ll have enough energy to survive the morning shopping.

* Pack a lunch or snack. Chances are fast food restaurants and food courts will be mobbed on Black Friday. Avoid some of the crowds by packing food in a bag and bringing it along. It will save time and money. Why not make a sandwich of that leftover turkey?

* Wear comfortable clothing. Crowded stores tend to be hot and chaotic. Dress in layers so that outer layers can be removed. Try to leave bulky coats at home because they can be a nuisance while shopping. Shoppers should also wear very comfortable shoes for long hours of walking.

* Be sure to know stores’ return policies. Even the best-laid plans may result in one or two gifts that need to be returned. It pays to know what stores will take back discounted items bought during Black Friday.

Set a Plan of Attack for Black Friday Shopping


Free Delivery On All Orders Over $25aFlowersaPlants

aBalloonsaAnniversaries

aSympathyaGet WellaBirthday

We Deliver to a large area including Morganton, Hickory, Mt. View, Newton-Conover, Lincolnton,

Cherryville & everywhere in between.

Thank You For Voting Us The #1 Florist In Hickory!

www.lanesflorist.com

Join Us For Our 3rd Annual Customer Appreciation Event Dec 3rd & 4th

SeasonsGreetingsBouquet

CARPE DIEM COUNSELING PRACTICE

Focusing On Women’s IssuesMargaret Doerle, MA, LPC

Working with you…on what’s important.

805 West Fleming Drive • Morganton, NC828-437-1533

Offering Counseling and PsychotherapyFor Individuals, Couples and Families

Fabulous Fall PediPumpkin Spice or

Chocolate509D 1st Avenue SW Hickory, NC 28602 • www.poshsalonspa.net

Women’s Clothing, Lingerie, Accessories, Shoes, and Fashion Jewelry

1 7 3 6 N . C e n t e r S t ~ H i c k o r y N C ~ 8 2 8 . 2 6 1 . 0 0 4 6

HICKORY’S

HIGH-FASHIONBOUTIQUE FOTOS

BY FREDsee:

In-House Alterations(whether purchased

here or not)

Warm-Up With Our FALL and WINTER FASHIONS

Custom Made ~ One of a Kind

Fair Lady Designs

(MS) -- The holidays are once again right around the corner, and families across the country are preparing to reunite.

With hosting family and friends on the holiday horizon, the following guide, courtesy of Bed Bath & Beyond, can help those responsible for entertaining the troops this season become the holiday host with the most.

Prepare for the Feast * Plan ahead. The key to minimizing holiday-induced anxiety is to plan in advance. Take inventory now to make sure you have the essentials you will need to serve your holiday meal -- both basics and serving pieces.

How-To Guide to Holiday Hosting


It’s My Party Rentals

We Specialize In:Tents • Linens • Florals • Candelabras

Party Supplies • Tables & Chairs1508 4th Ave. SE Hickory, NC • Just Off Tate Blvd.828-267-2789 or 828-267-2790

w w w. i t s m y p a r t y r e n t a l . c o m f a c e b o o k . c o m / i t s m y p a r t y r e n t a l s

A You-Nique Rental Store

A MOBILE SPA SERVICEHolistic Skincare ~ Reiki ~ Reflexology

Aromatherapy ~ Ear Candling ~ Wellness Programs

www.WellnessandBeautyBalance.com 828-514-2157 Carole Hensley Holistic Esthetician / Reiki Master

The Perfect

SpotSTYLISH CLOTHES FOR COOL CASH

929 15th St NE Ste 220Hickory, NC 28601 (Springs Rd)

828-855-3721

Majestic MemoriesCustom Eng raving at Budget Pr ic ing

T h at Ma ke s Pe o p l e Sm i l e

Located Off Hwy 321 Hickory (Call for directions)P: 828-322-2048 E: [email protected] w w. m m e n g r a v i n g s . c o m

Gifts Under $12Engraving Included

* Save time and space. Use serving pieces with warming trays to free up essential cooking space on your stove. To create additional space in your oven, use a three-tier oven rack on one side that leaves the other side open for more bulky food allowing you to cook more than one dish at a time.* Think off the wall. If you’re hosting a buffet, set up the buffet table away from the wall to utilize both sides of the table to serve food. Add unique, multi-level serving dishes to give your table a fresh look. * Offer your guests a choice. Set up at least 2 urns for your party, one with coffee and one with hot water for the tea drinkers. Consider a third for decaf.

Gear up for the GuestsOnce you’ve prepared for your holiday feast, give your home a fresh face with a few simple and affordable updates.

* Seasonal solution. Transform your entertaining area by replacing sheer window treatments with more luxurious ones made of taffeta or chenille in warm, rich colors of the season. Pick the length that suits your style. More formal looks are achieved with longer treatments. Drape a throw in a rich burgundy or chocolate over the back of your couch and update your decorative pillows with covers that tie in with your existing decor.* Bathroom makeover. It doesn’t take a coat of paint to freshen up the guest bathroom. A new bath ensemble and some decorative seasonal hand towels will do the trick. Fresh flowers and scented lotion on the counter are welcoming treats.* Guest bedroom blues. Looking to breathe some life into a guest bedroom?

Planning in advance is key to holiday entertaining. Make note of what you have and what you’ll need to make your holiday party a success. Photo courtesy of Bed Bath & Beyond.

Start with the bedding. Since it’s typically the biggest piece of decor in the room, changing the bedding alters the overall look and feel of the room. Add several extra pillows to the bed for that picture perfect catalog look. * Entertaining essentials. Being prepared helps avoid last minute panic. For the main event, make sure you have enough chairs for guests (including folding chairs) and consider whether you need an extra folding table to serve as a “kids” table or dessert station. For overnight guests, be sure you have clean towels and sheets and that you can put your hand on the extra inflatable mattress in case of a surprise guest. Visit Bed Bath & Beyond stores nationwide or online at www.bedbathandbeyond.com. Whether shopping in stores or online, you will find all the products you need to put together the perfect holiday event.


THE HOLIDAY SNOW VILLAGE

IS BACK! Back by popular demand, the Western Piedmont Symphony is pleased to present the return of the Holiday Snow Village. Five years ago Sheryl and Andrew James designed and built a breathtakingly beautiful miniature snow village for the symphony’s annual Festival of Trees. Once again Sheryl and Andrew are sharing their private collection with the community—only this time it’s a staggering 30 feet x 30 feet Holiday masterpiece. Watch them build the village on their own website at www.snowvillage2010.com. The village features trains, trains and more trains as they run through the villages, farmlands and mountains. There’s even a train roundhouse! Chris Brown, WPS Executive Director, states “the Festival of Trees and Snow Village is a wonderful community event people of all ages will thoroughly enjoy. You have to see it, to believe it.”

Many thanks to our event partner, Ace Hardware of Hickory, and to our event sponsors James Oxygen & Supply Company, Prism Commercial Real Estate and von Drehle Corporation. Their support and dedication to the community is truly appreciated.

“Wow” is the first word out of everyone’s mouth. Don’t miss this wonderful, community event. Plan a holiday trip for your school or church group. Admission is $3/person, $10/family of four or $2/person for groups of 10 or more. The village will be open to the public at designated times from November 21 through December 31.

Become part of the village by sponsoring a home or business. Contact the Western Piedmont Symphony at 828.324.8603 or www.wpsymphony.org for more information.

Left to right: Steve Mull, President of Board of Directors, SALT Block Foundation; Sheryl & Andrew James, designers and owners of the Snow Village; Kate Adair, Chairwoman of the Festival of Trees Committee; Dr. Brian Adair, Western Piedmont Symphony Board President; and Chris Brown, Western Piedmont Symphony Executive Director. Not pictured: Chip Huffman, Ace Hardware of Hickory.


20 minutes can be the difference between life and death when you’re having a heart attack. With heart surgeons available 24/7, Frye Regional Medical Center helps ensure the rapid and advanced cardiac care you need. We can help you turn minutes into years.

#1 IN THE STATE FOR CARDIAC SURGERY

EXCEPTIONAL CARE, A CENTURY STRONG.Heart SurgeryFor more information or for a physician referral call 828-315-3391.


...and Much More

Celebrating10of Coffee, Conversation, & Community

YearsNov 18th ~ Free Pastries with purchase of Coffee from 7am until Noon

~ Private Thanksgiving Luncheon from 12pm - 2pm ~ Wine, Hors D’oeuvres, & Belly Dancers from 6pm - 8pm

We Offer... ~ Beans~ Local Artwork

~ Breakfast Menu~ Lunch Menu

~Tea Bar~Specialty Coffee Drinks

www.TasteFullBeans.comFind us on Facebook @Taste Full Beans Coffeehouse

Also, Visit Our 2nd location in Hickory at the Furniture Mart on Hwy 70. Enter at the South Entrance

sophie woman's magazine nov 2010

Documents