May/June 2015 Issue - Grand Traverse Woman
Transcription
May/June 2015 Issue - Grand Traverse Woman
Grand Traverse PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Alpha Mail 49684 WOMAN northern michigan’s network for women ◆ may/june '15 MOtherHood I ssue Meet Dr. meg meekeR leading pediatrician & bestselling author hear her take on strong MOTHERS & Happy women Free Grand Traverse Woman WE MAKE REFINANCING YOUR HOME WORRY FREE! CREDIT UNION ONE’S MORTGAGE CONSULTANTS WILL HELP WITH THE ENTIRE REFINANCE PROCESS, GIVING YOU MORE TIME TO FOCUS ON WHAT’S IMPORTANT. CONTACT BARB TO GET STARTED TODAY! (231)499-0428 [email protected] NMLS#: 916753 1407 SOUTH DIVISION ST TRAVERSE CITY cuone.org/borrow 2 May/June '15 www.grandtraversewoman.com Grand Traverse Woman IN-STOCK carpet, tile, wood, area rugs & remnants! a huge selection of LVT, LVP, Laminate & miscellaneous CLOSE-OUTS priced to sell! Get high-end flooring at WAREHOUSE pricing… everyday in our OUTLET! CARPET: WOOD: TILE: AREA RUGS: Top quality carpet and pad... Wool carpeting Patterned selections Shaw Caress® Mohawk Smartstrand® Stainmaster® PetProtect And… many remnants! You won’t find prices this low anywhere in town! Solid or Engineered Hand-scraped Oil-rubbed Exotics Wide plank varieties The latest tile designs... Porcelain Ceramic Large format Stone-look Wood plank-look We’ve got it all, in a variety of styles and sizes! Wool Cotton Indoor/outdoor Natural grass rugs South Airport at Barlow, Traverse City • US-31 North, Acme 231.941.4700 •FloorCoveringBrokers.com www.grandtraversewoman.com May/June '15 3 Grand Traverse Woman 2015 Arts Festival Thursday, June 18 Michael McDonald Monday, June 29 Garry Krinsky: Toying with Science July 2-3 “As You Like It” Interlochen Shakespeare Festival Sunday, July 5 The Capitol Steps Monday, July 6 Pink Martini BOOKER T. JONES Tuesday, July 7 Doobie Brothers Wednesday, July 8 Sweet Harmony Soul: Mavis Staples & Patty Griffin with special guest Amy Helm & the Handsome Strangers July 9-11 “As You Like It” Interlochen Shakespeare Festival Tuesday, July 14 Interlochen “Collage” Sunday, July 19 James Ehnes, Violin World Youth Symphony Orchestra Sunday, August 2 Christine Brewer, Soprano World Youth Symphony Orchestra August 6-9 “Crazy for You” HighSchoolMusicalTheatreCo. Monday, August 10 Dancing With The Stars - Live! Monday, August 17 Ensō String Quartet Wednesday, August 19 Vince Gill Ensō String Quartet Saturday, August 22 Ensō String Quartet Tuesday, September 1 O.A.R. with Special Guest Allen Stone Wednesday, July 22 Boz Scaggs with Special Guest Tower of Power Martha Graham Dance Company Thursday, July 23 Emerson String Quartet Tuesday, July 28 A Prairie Home Companion Thursday, July 30 Beach Boys Friday, July 31 Harry Connick, Jr. Saturday, August 1 Diana Krall Diana Krall August 1 O.A.R. - September 1 tickets.interlochen.org•800.681.5920 4 May/June '15 interlochen_may_june_ad_gt_woman.indd 1 www.grandtraversewoman.com 4/6/15 1:56 PM Grand Traverse Woman Grand Traverse WOMAN2woman WOMAN By Kandace Chapple & Kerry winkler northern michigan’s magazine for women Volume 12, No. 5 May/June 2015 GTWoman’s office space We’re often asked where our GTWoman office is. It’s hard to explain that it’s about one mile down, on the left, just before the hard right turn. Watch for the trailhead sign and park near the first trail you see. Because we don’t have a “real” office. Unless you count Lost Lake Pathway, where we have walked and talked hundreds of miles over the last 12 years; sometimes planning GTWoman, sometimes planning an escape. But always, always talking and walking. We’ve calculated we’ve walked 60–70 miles to produce this very issue in your hands. (We should be skinnier if you think about it.) We’ve tried to break the habit and just enjoy our walk but it’s usually right after we’ve said, No more work! that we come up with a plan so good that it must be executed without further research or reasoning, on the spot. Every one of our worst ideas has come while sitting in an office, confined by manmade-ness. Our best ideas are launched and honed while walking the Pere Marquette forest looking for a couple of dogs. Here are a few office rules we have established: Dress in layers Every business meeting starts with: “How many layers do you have on?” Pause. “Two? I have three. Should I do two? Or stay with three?” Test fabric between two fingers. More arguing. Finally: “I’m going with the three. You’re gonna be cold.” The one in two layers ends the walk victoriously as the other emerges from the woods sweating, with her jacket tied around her waist, her cell phone in its pocket taking a beating on her leg. It’s a rare, rare business meeting where it all comes together–the perfect number of layers on both of us. No appointed end time Do not think that getting back to the parking lot four miles later means that the meeting is over, especially if it’s raining out and we’re soaked and borderline hypothermic. This is usually just when we're getting brilliant. “Should we walk one more?” one of us will always ask. “Are you out of your mind?” the other will always answer. Instead we pop the hatchback on Kandy’s car and huddle under it to get out of the rain and corner our idea. At this point we look like fools, can’t feel our hands and are, totally, creating another masterpiece. No dog leashes allowed The dogs are welcome but leashes are frowned upon. Leashes and tethers could slow the waving of arms for emphasis of brilliance. Every dis- Save The Date Wednesday, May 13 – Purse Night & Jane Reveal Get out your sassiest purse and join us for "Purse Night" as well as the Jane Reveal! Our Network Nite is at Credit Union ONE from 5-7 p.m. The three Janes will reveal their final weight loss and makeovers. It's going to be a great night, complete with (happy) tears! Tickets are $15 or 2/$20. Visit www.grandtraversewoman.com to join us! www.grandtraversewoman.com cussion sounds something like this: “Luncheon speaker, Network Nite location, etc. etc.,” rotated evenly and regularly with: “Where the hell did those dogs go now?” At the GTWoman office, expect an even number of humans and fourlegged friends in attendance. At least two of them will be jumping, rolling or biting at any time. Public welcome There are a lot of strangers in our office. If they show up, we are always welcoming, stepping off the trail, one on each side, to make way. “What a beautiful day!” we bellow, regardless of sleet in our faces or wind tossing our hair or rollicking dogs. It’s always beautiful because we have an office with no walls, no doors and rules like these. Recently it’s come to our attention that there are not one but two other women in the area who are using our office regularly. They didn’t even ask. But it’s cool. We’ve seen Judy and Karen in our office many times over the years. Just last week it dawned on us: We're actually part of a co-op. So for all those gals with offices like ours, we salute you. For the rest, we encourage you to get out on the trails this summer and find your brilliance! Grand Traverse Woman P.O. Box 22 Interlochen, MI 49643 tel: 231.276.5105 fax: 231.276.5106 [email protected] www.grandtraversewoman.com Blog: www.grandtraversewoman.com Facebook: http://companies.to/grandtraversewoman Publishers Kandace Chapple Kerry Winkler Editor Kandace Chapple, [email protected] Account Director Kerry Winkler, [email protected] Account Executives Deb Dent, [email protected] Lisa Foley, [email protected] Sherry Galbraith, [email protected] Lori Maki, [email protected] Assistant Editor Lisa Maxbauer Price, [email protected] COPY Editor Christine Kurtz DesignerS Bethany Gulde, [email protected] Erin Waineo, www.erinwaineodesign.com cover photo Dr. Meg Meeker, see her story on page 26-27. Photo by Beth Price, Beth Price Photography www.bethpricephotography.com Photographers Sarah Brown, Sarah Brown Photography www.sarahbrown-photography.com Scarlett Piedmonte, Photography by Scarlett www.photobyscarlett.com Beth Price, Beth Price Photography www.bethpricephotography.com Administrative Assistant Melissa Cartwright, The Beancounter Contributing Writers Shirley Aboudib Andrea Bogard Heather Budnik Kyrie Caswell April Caverly Linda Francomb Anne Grascoeur Beth Guntzviller Kaija Hornburg Sarah Kime Kristen Lowe Dr. Meg Meeker Patti Miller Loreen Niewenhuis Hannah Pettigrew Jennifer Sheehan Shann Vander Leek Jessie Zevalkink Advertising Kerry Winkler at 231.276.5105 or [email protected] The deadline is June 15 for the July/Aug issue. Visit www.grandtraversewoman.com for rates. Subscriptions To receive GTWoman at home, mail $20 (for 6 issues) to: Grand Traverse Woman, P.O. Box 22, Interlochen, MI 49643 Tuesday, June 2 – Dr. meg meeker Join us for a memorable lunch hour! Meet Dr. Meg Meeker, leading pediatrician and bestselling author. Hear her take on Strong MOTHERS & Happy WOMEN! In this talk, Dr. Meg presents issues that women face as we try to find joy, happiness and contentment. Tickets $25 or 2/$45. Booths $185. Visit www.grandtraversewoman.com. Articles/Press Releases Letters, inquiries, press releases and GTWoman In Business submissions are welcome. GTWoman in Biz releases are due June 15. See www.grandtraversewoman.com for guidelines. Mission Statement Grand Traverse Woman is a bimonthly magazine dedicated to the interests of women in the five-county region. Our mission is to provide women with a publication that is educational and inspirational. We strive to maintain a positive, well-balanced and genuine forum for women's issues. (We also like funny stuff.) © Copyright 2015 Grand Traverse Woman LLC All rights reserved. May/June '15 5 Grand Traverse Woman New Normal A 7th grader shares life after her mother’s cancer diagnosis Kaija with her mom Linda By Kaija Hornburg I was awakened by an intense orange light coming through my eyelids. The dazzling display of the sunrise outside my window blinded me and I shut my eyes again. My comforter seemed to envelop me in love and I felt bad about the idea of leaving it. Then I realized it was Sunday. I shot up out of bed, almost hitting my head on the bunk above me. I ran upstairs, but the carpeting provided little traction. It was a free Sunday for us that weekend, no plans, which meant that my dad was making breakfast. He always made something special and I couldn’t help but be curious. When I got upstairs, the warm and spicy smell of pumpkin pancakes filled my nose. It was a pleasant breakfast. The pancakes tasted as good as they smelled and my family talked as usual. We were near the end of the meal and our conversation was waning when my dad’s expression changed. He looked stern and serious. My mom seemed incredibly tense and fidgeted in her seat. My dad started by gesturing to the pink “North Storm Soccer” shirt he was wearing, explaining how it was in support of the two moms on my brother’s soccer team who have breast cancer. Suddenly, I felt an ominous pit forming in my stomach... I had been suspicious, but now I was connecting the dots... I hoped from here to the end of the earth and back again that I was wrong, and that my dad would end up saying something completely different than what I was dreading, but that was not the case. “And today I’m wearing it in support of your mom as well,” he said simply. There was an odd silence for a couple of seconds. My brother sat beside me, dumbstruck. I could feel the lump in my throat growing. I tried 6 May/June '15 to swallow, but my throat felt too sore. Tears came bubbling out like a fountain and I couldn’t stop them. My mom rushed over from the other side of the table to console me. My dad started talking again, trying to set my mind at ease by explaining how cancer works and that breast cancer can be treatable. I didn’t care what he said about it. I didn’t want any of it in our lives, no matter how treatable. I was told my mom was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer, a mix of ductile and lobular cancer that was throughout her left breast and had spread to lymph nodes in her arm. I didn’t really understand at first what that all meant, but, as my dad explained things, I could tell from his eyes that he was concerned. Scared? I wasn’t used to seeing my dad scared of anything. That night, I lay in bed with my eyes closed, but I wasn’t sleeping. I knew I had to sleep because there was school tomorrow. I didn’t want to go to school, but it was inevitable. I also knew my life wasn’t going to be the same anymore. I liked things the way they were, but change was inevitable. And as I finally drifted off, I felt inevitably hopeless. Over the next year, my mom had surgery to have both breasts and some of her lymph nodes removed, a full round of chemotherapy, reconstruction surgery and radiation. She has started to recover, and is now facing years of taking a strong drug called Tamoxifen, which will have some side effects, but will hopefully stop the cancer from coming back. There are no guarantees. My mom needs to stay healthy and happy and take it one day at a time. So do I. It has been a rough year. Then, in a fraction of a second, my heartbeat slowed and I relaxed as the truth and reality set in: Not everything had to change. Yet, exactly 300 days later, when I woke up again on a Sunday morning, I realized that I had also been inevitably wrong that sad day so long ago. Sure, when I got up this time, I couldn’t avoid the upper bunk. I nursed a large bump on my head as I lugged myself upstairs, only to find that my brother was still sleeping. That meant that I’d have to set the breakfast table by myself again. As I begrudgingly put the plates down, I smelled something coming from the stove top. I spun around and my dad grinned at me as he started flipping pumpkin pancakes. My memories flooded back and I started to panic. I tensed and my heart pumped faster. Then, in a fraction of a second, my heartbeat slowed and I relaxed as the truth and reality set in: Not everything had to change. My mom walked in from the living room and gave me a warm smile. It wasn’t rigid and full of anguish. My dad was still at work making us pancakes on our special Sundays. As usual, I sat down to breakfast with my parents and groggy brother. We ate and talked and chewed and discussed politics and other subjects, even making jokes about my mom’s short hair. It felt normal and I liked it. But it was far from what I used to think was normal. It was my new normal. Kaija Hornburg is a 12-year-old 7th grader at East Middle School in Traverse City. She lives with her mother and father, Linda Vitins and Kirk Hornburg. She has two older brothers, Lars and Kalvis, with whom she shares a love of soccer and ski racing, as well as other outdoor activities, especially those in and on the water. She enjoys reading, writing and singing, and she would like one day to study law and enter politics. www.grandtraversewoman.com Grand Traverse Woman BEAUTIFUL smiles BUILD AMAZING CONFIDENCE Many options including CLEAR BRACES & CLEAR ALIGNERS Sara S. Bergsma DDS, MS, PC ORTHODONTICS FOR CHILDREN & ADULTS 545 S. Garfield Ave. | Suite A | Traverse City, MI 231.935.1440 | www.BergsmaOrthodontics.com Member American Association of Orthodontists Lic# 2009015015 www.grandtraversewoman.com May/June '15 7 Grand Traverse Woman Second time around Overcoming severe PPD (and a tubal ligation) Northern Art Photography to find motherhood joy again By Andrea Bogard Andrea with husband Brandon, Colton and Dwight. Something was wrong. Where was the euphoria of new motherhood? The peace and tranquility touted so vividly on the glossy pages of parenting magazines. My son, Colton, was 36 hours old and I was spiraling quickly into the abyss I would come to know as Postpartum Depression. Our first baby In October of 2006, my husband of nearly two years and I welcomed our beautiful son into the world. He was 8 lbs., 9 oz. of perfect, pink healthy baby. But beneath this idyllic beginning was the start of a 13-month battle with PPD that would become nearly fatal for me and would nearly cost me my marriage and my son. In hindsight, at first I felt a loss of connection to everyone and everything. I had never heard of such an illness and unfortunately neither had my husband, Brandon. We chalked up the early despair to being just “tired.” Over time the situation got worse. I experienced thoughts of suicide, hopelessness and worthlessness. I even moved out of our home for a short period in an attempt to heal in a manner safe for those around me. Finally, after six horrible months we sought help. We tried therapy, holistic remedies and traditional medicine. Firmly clinging to my desire to breastfeed, I shunned the lithium and other drugs recommended by physicians. The consensus among traditional medical doctors was that I had postpartum-onset bi-polar disease and would need to be medicated for the rest of my life in order to function. That was not an ideal option. I looked for other solutions. Instead, I pursued a diet of whole foods and healthy proteins in conjunction with supplements, herbs and minerals. I felt nourished eating scrambled eggs, bacon, fruit and a high-protein English muffin for 8 May/June '15 breakfast, and a vegan protein shake with fruit and coconut milk as a snack. Thousands of dollars and many months later the misery lifted. I was myself again! My miscarriage In early 2008, my husband and I decided we wanted to try to add to our family. Unfortunately we suffered a miscarriage. Within 24 hours of my D&C procedure I developed a high fever and nausea. Plus, my previously flat abdomen appeared seven months pregnant. We went immediately to the emergency room, where we discovered I was bleeding internally and had dangerously low hemoglobin. It was scary. The doctor had missed nearly 80 percent of what he needed to remove during my procedure. After a second emergency D&C, and much medical consultation and prayer, we decided it was time to end my reproductive journey. I was 25 years old, had a perfect, healthy little boy, and had narrowly survived my attempt to have another baby. So I had a tubal ligation and thought the door had closed on my childbearing years. Trying again Five years later I was sitting with my husband at a restaurant enjoying a date night. We drank a beer and laughed about how it seemed every waitress there was pregnant. That’s when I turned to my spouse and brought up something that had been on my mind for a few months: “What do you think about having another baby?” Amazingly, my husband had been toying with the same idea too, but hadn’t wanted to bring it up. After discussing our mutual desire for a second baby and the hurdles we would have to overcome to get pregnant, we both questioned the impact of a potential PPD episode. We realized how little we knew about the condition, even after going through it. We agreed that before we put ourselves, our son and a future baby at risk, we would do extensive research. And we did. We left no stone unturned in our quest to understand the risk and management of a common, but often unaccepted complication of pregnancy. Next, we found a private surgical center just north of Atlanta, Ga., that specialized in tubal reversals (www.pregnantagain.com). The procedure went beautifully. And two short months later, we saw two pink lines on a pregnancy test! Baby 2! Unlike the first time, when we hadn’t recognized there was a problem until it became serious, we vowed to stay very dialed in to my mental state. The newest member of We also wanted a team the Bogard family: Dwight. of health care providers with a good baseline of my personality pre-baby. After thorough research, we decided to be assisted by a wonderful midwife team. They helped me complete my pregnancy in the best possible physical and emotional health. They encouraged me to seek the tools I needed to feel confident in my ability to birth and nurture a new baby, and maintain my own health and wellbeing. Thanks to the team, and their dietary and supplemental guidance, I felt great during the entire pregnancy. They recognized I had low levels of iron in my blood and encouraged me to eat a lot of red meat and high iron foods. In November 2014 it was finally time to meet www.grandtraversewoman.com 3 Grand Traverse Woman Signs and help for PPD It’s natural and common for women to experience the “baby blues” (which may include mood swings and crying) following a recent birth. However, if symptoms intensify and disrupt a mother’s ability to care for herself or her baby, she may be suffering from postpartum depression. Additional symptoms include loss of appetite or sex drive, insomnia and fatigue, difficulty bonding with the newborn, or thoughts of harming herself or her baby. For help, contact your health care provider. Additional local resources and perspectives are also available through: Blessings of the Womb: Robin Lavis, CPM (Certified Professional Midwife) Contact: 231.264.9144 [email protected] Intricately Woven Birth Services: Kayla Hadfield Contact: 231.392.6770 www.intricatelywoven.com this baby. I had planned for a home birth, but, after my labor stalled, we agreed it was time to transfer to Munson Medical Center in Traverse City. With the help of a little Pitocin, our midwife and our original doctor, we soon welcomed our baby, Dwight, into the world at a whopping 10 lbs., 10 oz. and 22.5 inches long. The evening we brought our new son home and laid him in his crib, I wept with joy. A few weeks later, we celebrated with New York strips and crab legs my husband cooked at home. It was a necessary celebration after a long struggle and exceptional outcome. Overall, I felt more balanced and confident. Securities and Investment Advisory Services offered through NFP Advisor Services, LLC. Member FINRA/SIPC. NFP Advisor Services, LLC is not affiliated with Forge Financial Advisors. Marc R. Gillespie 33 years providing service with integrity Making choices Now, nearly five months later, with continued focus on nutrition and a great lactation consultant, I am experiencing wonderful connections with my husband and sons. It’s the result of countless deliberate choices. Through our own research—medical and natural consultation—and the recommendations of other successful PPD survivors, we chose the vitamins and minerals I needed to help maintain emotional and physical health. I take B complex daily, fish oil, probiotics and various immunesupport products. I also took placenta capsules daily until 4 months post partum. It was one of the tools I came across in my research. Most of the evidence in favor of consuming the placenta in any form is anecdotal rather than scientific. However, with my experience with PPD and the positive feedback from women who had actually used this encapsulation process, I was convinced it was a tool worth having. Honest communication and a loving partnership also helped. Frequently, my husband will sit down, look me in the eyes, and ask, “How are you?” This is not just the perfunctory greeting but rather an honesty question that we set months prior as a check and balance to the whole process. It is like a safe word for us that means “no strings, no worries, no judgment.” Every day, we celebrate our new addition. We faced tremendous odds, but achieved great success. Today, we have two wonderful boys who, fortunately, have a peaceful, happy and healthy mom. Andrea Bogard and her husband, Brandon, live in Kingsley with their two boys, Colton and Dwight. Together they operate Northern Art Photography, www.northernartphotography.com. Bogard, a Petoskey native, has lived in the Grand Traverse area since 2008. www.grandtraversewoman.com May/June '15 9 Grand Traverse Woman Lindsay Wolff Photography Linda with Memphis and Philip A baby at The tragedy and triumph of one mom’s journey By Linda Francomb Unplanned beginning Aug. 10, 1978: My wedding day in the Mississippi Delta. My husband-to-be and I had known each other since childhood, dated our junior and senior high school years and attended church together weekly. And there I was, standing in my parents’ living room, daisies in my hair, grasping a delicate bouquet of wildflowers. Standing there in a beautiful, long lace dress, my highschool prom dress, with my knees knocking underneath. I was young and pregnant. Back then women who had babies out of wedlock were not looked upon in a very approving light. So the thought never occurred to me to raise my baby on my own. It was everyone’s mission to get us married, and quick! At the age of 17, I became a wife and at the age of 18, I became a mom. After an 8-hour natural labor and delivery, my precious firstborn daughter arrived. We 10 May/June '15 named her Mary Heather. Mary, after my mom and me (my given name is Mary Linda), and Heather, just because we liked it. I took my role as a mom very seriously. No college life for me. I loved my daughter more than I knew possible and I didn’t want to be anywhere else. I remember, when Heather was around 8 months old, I asked my mom, “How can you love more than one child?” Of course, I learned you could and I do. My son, Xan, was born four years later; a joyful child with a sweet, loving disposition that he has carried into adulthood. He inspires me daily. When I got divorced after 17 years of marriage, I was forever thankful to have my precious children in my life. Fast forward to 2003. Internet dating was gaining popularity and I was finally ready for a serious relationship again. I met my current (and younger) husband, Philip. He was a Michigan native and after a long-distance relationship, we were engaged. I moved to Traverse City to start our new life together. It was incredibly hard to leave my family: Heather was 26 and Xan was 22. After I remarried, the kids visited TC a few times and loved the area; of course we missed each other terribly. Still, I was ready for it to be my time. I longed for the change. Parent’s worst nightmare It was a typical sales day for me at my radio job in September 2007 when I received a phone call from my mom. She was crying hysterically. I thought something had happened to my dad until she sobbed the words: “-----killed Heather.” My world shattered into a million pieces and at that moment life as I knew it ended for me. To say it was devastating to learn that my daughter had been murdered by her boyfriend doesn’t describe my sorrow and utter anguish. www.grandtraversewoman.com Grand Traverse Woman Heather was my firstborn. She was my friend and my confidant. We grew up together. And now she had died a tragic, horrific, brutal death at the hands of someone she loved. And I wasn’t there to protect her. With friends, I created a non-profit organization in my daughter’s memory to help women dealing with domestic violence. It is called Heather’s TREE, an acronym for Training, Resources, Education and Empowerment, and symbolic of her love of trees. To date we have raised over $70,000 in aid for Mississippi women. As time passed I dealt with my daughter’s death by the love and support of family, friends and even strangers. The promise of eternal life with Heather and my Heavenly Father sustained me. Northern Michigan’s Apple Specialist A Special Present For A Special Person Unexpected joy Not everyone knows that at a time when my family got smaller, I was actively trying to make it bigger. Right before Heather died I had been through two rounds of fertility drugs. Philip and I really wanted a child together as he had none. I had given myself daily stomach injections and taken pills. All our efforts resulted in two pregnancies, both ending in miscarriages. I wasn’t getting any younger! So in 2009 we took the plunge and made the IVF investment. It’s a story of forging ahead after experiencing a parent’s worst nightmare. We traveled to Grand Rapids for the procedures. We had four healthy, surviving embryos and we prayed one would “take.” The first treatment implanted two of the embryos and I got pregnant but miscarried at eight weeks. We waited a couple of months and implanted the last two…prayed… and once again, I was pregnant. At seven weeks we saw the tiny flicker of a heartbeat! Within time, our beautiful baby boy was born, weighing 7 lbs. 7ozs. We named him Memphis, representing the place my husband and I met in person for the first time. Our son arrived only two days shy of his due date, three years after the death of my daughter and only seven months before I turned 50 years old! Every story is different and my winding road to motherhood has been filled with highs and lows, triumphs and tragedies. To think, my first child came at the age of 18 and my last child at the ripe old age of 49! (And only two years later my amazing middle child, Xan, and his wife blessed us with a sweet grandson!) This Mother’s Day, let her see your appreciation! Learn how to video chat with FaceTime with 3 months free seminar access when you purchase an iPad or Mac from CityMac. CityMac is locally owned and operated 3480 S. Airport Rd, Traverse City MI 49684 (by Buffalo Wild Wings) Mon. - Sat. 9 am - 7 pm | www.citymac.net | 231-946-1045 To say my life has been a 'journey' is a given, but experiencing motherhood this time around has been an unbelievable blessing. I cherish my morning snuggles with Memphis before starting the day, relish the hugs and kisses he gives me and laugh often at his little quirks and boyish ways. I can’t wait to watch him grow. I love each of my children unconditionally. We have bonds that can’t be broken in life or death. Heather is eternally missed but always near. To quote author Marianne Williamson: “We do not heal the past by dwelling there; we heal the past by living fully in the present.” I thank God for placing people, events and opportunities in my life to guide me through my darkest hours to this unexpected life of happiness and fulfillment, with the family I was always meant to have! I can say once again I am at peace. Linda Francomb is a senior account executive at Midwestern Broadcasting in Traverse City and is currently writing a book of hope and healing as encouragement to others who have lost children. Linda, Philip and 5-year-old Memphis reside in Leelanau County. Linda continues her domestic violence awareness and can be reached at [email protected]. Visit www.heatherstree.org for more information. www.grandtraversewoman.com May/June '15 11 Grand Traverse Woman The Best Variety for Your Workday is on Today’s Lite 96.3! Listen on your radio at 96.3 FM or stream us on your phone or at work at Lite96.com HOME & BUSINESS MOVES Did you know? is a Michigan-based company? It started in the early 1980s in Okemos, Mich. We offer a full line of moving-related services that can be customized to fit your needs. Mara Crofoot, President • Packing and unpacking services • Senior facility moves • Boxes and packing supplies • Fully insured and bonded www.TwoMenNorthernMichigan.com 1348 S. West Silver Lake Rd., Traverse City, MI 49685 (231) 947-8880 Each franchise independently owned and operated. • USDOT 1469296 MPSC 32908 12 May/June '15 www.grandtraversewoman.com Grand Traverse Woman 2015-2016 SEASON ERNIE BY MITCH ALBOM LOUIE ANDERSON SEE SOMETHING SPECTACULAR Create Your Package Today PIGPEN THEATRE CO. BROADWAY’S NEXT H!T MUSICAL THREE MEN AND A TENOR NATALIE MACMASTER & DONNELL LEAHY MISS NELSON IS MISSING! MORGAN JAMES CHIC GAMINE HOLLYWOOD CONCERT ORCHESTRA 20 ENJOY UP TO % OFF Plus, the BEST SEATS when you order before June 18 th CELTIC NIGHTS REENTRY THE MOTH MAINSTAGE METROPOLITAN OPERA RISING STARS CONCERT SERIES BRIA SKONBERG Packages start at just 3 shows. Pick 3-4 shows, save 10%. Pick 5 or more, save 20%. Some limitations may apply. Photo credits: Met Opera -Ron Berard/Met Opera; The Moth – Denise Ofeila Wangen CityOperaHouse.org/SeasonTickets 231.941.8082 www.grandtraversewoman.com 106 E. FRONT STREET • DOWNTOWN TRAVERSE CITY May/June '15 13 Grand Traverse Woman SPRING CLEANING? Just bring in your kids’ gently used clothes, toys, books & baby essentials! We buy all seasons ~ all the time. Check us out online @ www.twicetrendytots.com 1425 W. South Airport Road • Suite J Traverse City, MI 49686 • 231-944-1868 www.twicetrendytots.com Reading + Math Help your child maintain critical skills Summer in language arts and/or math this Program summer with easy-to-use at-home Grades K–8 lessons. Registering now. nmc.edu/kids (231) 995-1700 Baby after brain tumor ‘Could I really care for an infant?’ By Kyrie Caswell now accepting I know it is typically every little girl’s dream to have babies, but patients 14 May/June '15 it wasn’t mine. I liked being outside running around and feeling free. I never really thought I would grow up to be a mom. Then when I was 9 years old, I was diagnosed with a tumor on the right side of my brain. It was caught in the very late stages. I underwent brain surgery only two days after it was discovered. The tumor was the size of an extra large egg. The surgery was successful: the tumor was completely removed and was not cancerous. But the damage to my brain was already done. I was left semi-paralyzed, losing function of my left hand and walking with a slight limp due to the fact that my left foot is always extended. As a result, I had to re-learn how to do everything with one hand. It is amazing what our bodies are capable of doing and how quickly I was able to do most daily tasks with one hand. Still, I thought I would never be able to care for a child. Skip ahead to April of 2013. I hadn’t changed my views of motherhood www.grandtraversewoman.com Grand Traverse Woman After the first doctor visit, reality started to set in. I wondered what my future would be like. when my boyfriend and I found out that I was, in fact, pregnant. I was shocked but very happy and excited. I had a nephew and a niece, but I didn’t watch them on a daily basis. Could I really care for an infant? I wondered. I didn’t have long to think about it. Within two months I would have other worries on my mind. That’s when I had a seizure caused by the scar tissue from my previous brain surgery. Suddenly, I was faced with a major decision: start on a medication that lacked research regarding its effects on pregnant women and their gestating babies, or risk having another seizure that could possibly result in premature labor for me and complications for my baby. After talking it over with my family, my doctor and my boyfriend, I decided to start taking the medication to protect myself and hopefully have a full-term pregnancy. I had everyone’s support. I was under the constant supervision of my neurologist, who also kept in close touch with my gynecologist. Thankfully, I did not have another seizure throughout the rest of my pregnancy. On Dec. 5, 2013, I gave birth to a beautiful baby girl weighing a healthy 6 lbs., 15 ozs. She was 20 inches long with 10 fingers and 10 toes. She was perfect. My decision had been right. My daughter was healthy. We named her Brynn. I hadn’t needed an epidural during labor so the following day we were allowed to take Brynn home. The hospital didn’t see a need in keeping me and we were more then ready to go. Once I got home the fun started. I got to learn how to do everything with one hand with a newborn. My family and boyfriend were amazing and very helpful, but I knew they would all soon return to work and I would be alone with Brynn to care for her. I knew I was going to have to really work on the best approaches to feeding, bathing, changing and dressing a newborn with one hand. I learned to use my left arm to keep Brynn’s head propped up while giving her a bottle and also keep her head out of the water in the bathtub. I learned how to buckle her car seat with one hand. I got creative—I used a zip tie to secure one lock on the car seat basket carrier so I could put the handle up and down without assistance. Getting my daughter dressed was the biggest challenge that I faced, but I took my time and made sure to make it as easy on Brynn as possible. I found the location of baby changing stations in public bathrooms didn’t work for me. So I got really good at changing my baby on my lap, using my knees. I also learned how to use my body better, hips to bump doors shut or keep doors open. I often wore my daughter in an Ergo carrier, which kept my right hand free so I could do things like grocery shop. And honestly, strangers tended to be pretty helpful at times. They opened doors or buckled straps. Through it all, I was very driven to be the best parent possible. I love being a mom. Every hurdle I overcome is totally worth it. Motherhood isn’t easy, but I’ve realized that I can do whatever I put my mind to, regardless of my disability. Brynn is now a happy, bright, energetic toddler. I receive compliments from friends and family and even total strangers. They are amazed at my ability to do things with one hand and even more impressed at my ability to care for and keep up with Brynn. I definitely did a total “180” about parenthood and I couldn’t be happier. I am glad that I didn’t stick to the idea of never having a baby. • Closet Organizers • Garage Storage • Home Offices • Wall Beds Traverse City l 231-946-4493 • Laundry Room Cabinets upnorthclosets.com • Entertainment Centers • Pantry Organizers Storage Solutions to Organize Your Life Traverse City l 231-946-4493 Traverse City l 231-946-4493 upnorthclosets.com upnorthclosets.com 41 41 41 41 Kyrie Caswell has a Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice and currently lives in Traverse City with her boyfriend, Matt, and 15-month-old daughter Brynn. She enjoys being outside and watching documentaries. www.grandtraversewoman.com May/June '15 15 Think you mayyou with vital information and provide concerning pregnancy through our be Think pregnant? free clinical you maytest and ultrasound. We can help you know for sure concerning pregnancy through our free clinical test and ultrasound. Grand Traverse Woman be pregnant? Think you Safe. may Free. Confidential. Free. Confidential. Safe. Think you may be pregnant? be pregnant? We can help you know for sure and provide you with vital information We can help you know for sure concerning pregnancy through our and provide you with vital information free clinical test and ultrasound. concerning pregnancy through our free clinical test and ultrasound. Free. Confidential. Safe. Call our medical clinic today Safe. Call our medical clinic today Free. Confidential. We help help you know for sure Wecancan you know for sure to schedule an appointment: to schedule an appointment: and provide you with vital information and provide you withourvital concerning pregnancy through free clinical test and ultrasound. information Call our medical clinic today Call our medical231-929-3488 clinic today to schedule an appointment: concerning pregnancy through our to schedule an appointment: free clinical test and ultrasound. 231-929-3488 231-929-3488 Free. Confidential. Safe. 231-929-3488 Free. Confidential. Safe. Call our medical clinic today to schedule an appointment: 231-929-3488 www.know4sure.org www.know4s www.know4sure.org www.know4sure.org Call our medical clinic today to schedule an appointment: 231-929-3488 www.know4sure.org www.know4sure.org 16 May/June '15 www.grandtraversewoman.com Grand Traverse Woman GIRLS DAY OUT Voted #1 Bike Shop in Traverse City by Red Hot Best. www.grandtraversewoman.com #1 736 E. 8th Street, Traverse City www.brickwheels.com 231.947.4274 May/June '15 17 Grand Traverse Woman Always a risk By Beth Guntzviller As Beth’s preemie thrived, her own health fell apart. Pregnancy wasn’t some magical time for me. When I think about it, I still get a little panicky. During one week around my seventh month, I blew up like a balloon. Socks would not go over my foot. The necklace I wore all the time would not fit around my neck. My bathrobe would not go all the way around me. I could not lie in bed—my neck and head hurt. Instead, I sat in a chair and laid my head against propped-up pillows. At the time I thought this was a normal pregnancy. I figured my extra weight gain was because I was a bit older. Friends and family saw a change in me but were hesitant to say I looked horrible. (I have since learned when you have a family member who does not look healthy, tell him or her. It could be life or death.) When I went to my doctor for a check up, I was told to go immediately to the hospital. I had preeclampsia—a dangerous complication caused by high blood pressure. It is a risk that comes with pregnancy. There is always a risk. I drove over, parked my car and walked in. I used a pay phone to update my husband. I called relatives to pick up our daughter from school, and the cleaning lady to clean house since my mom would be coming to stay. I was crying and scared, alone in the hall. Everything was happening so fast. I’ll never forget a woman I knew who was a volunteer at the hospital. She put her arm around me and walked with me up to the delivery floor. I had to walk through these two steel doors. Nurses scolded me, wondering where I had been. They put me in a sterile room. WELCOME, TONIA! We’re pleased to welcome Tonia A. Anglin to the Traverse City State Bank team! Tonia A. Anglin Vice President, Mortgages 231.995.8710 [email protected] (231) 946-5191 | TCCENTRALUMC.ORG | 222 Cass, Downtown TC YOUare welcome HERE. Member FDIC We’re in a good place. 18 May/June '15 GTW-4-15 Sunday Mornings Chapel Worship at 8:15 am | Casual Worship at 9 am Sunday School at 10 am | Traditional Worship at 11 am Church in the Park starts June 14, 9 am in Sunset Park, downtown TC www.grandtraversewoman.com Grand Traverse Woman My head was pounding. I was sick to my stomach. Someone brought me a huge pork chop. The sight and smell was nauseating. There was this clock on the wall. The minute hand was unusually loud as it was ticking. The sound was like boom, boom, boom! I asked a nurse if she could take the clock down. After a doctor consultation, they decided to take the baby ASAP via C-section. I’d gained 100 pounds but Jeffrey was born weighing only 2 1/2 pounds. He was healthy but looked like a bird that had fallen out of a tree, or an old man, all wrinkly, red, skinny. Not the newborn I had imagined. Delivering the baby was supposed to help me out of distress. But, after Jeff was born, I continued to get sicker and sicker and bigger and bigger. I was in intensive care for days and did not see my baby. I blew up even more. My hands looked like rubber gloves blown up. My bloated face was unrecognizable. Someone brought in what seemed like a small crane and forklift to weigh me. They put straps on me and cranked me up. I remember asking the nurse as I was waking up one day if anyone had ever died in this room. She looked at me bright eyed and said truthfully, “Yes.” Days stretched on. I remember thinking no one cares because there are no flowers or cards. But I later learned you cannot have them in intensive care. Jolly Jeffrey was finally wheeled to me in his little bed. I was told no baby had ever been brought to see his mom in intensive care. I could only see him a few minutes; my blood pressure would skyrocket. I remember our daughter, Julie, who was 8 at the time, peeking in on me as I lay in intensive care. She was scared, not wanting to look at me because I looked like a monster. My husband, Wayne, would rotate between the neonatal unit and my floor. He would sit for hours with Jeff, putting his big hands through the holes in his special crib, feeding him with a tube. As my baby thrived, I was in grave danger. I was unresponsive for about a week. At some point I became aware that people, grown men, were praying for me. I opened my eyes and saw my sister sitting in a chair that looked really far away. She looked like an angel. Things finally started to turn in my favor. My physician, Dr. Frost, and my critical care specialist, Dr. Ochs, figured out how to save my life. I eventually got better with the help of drugs for high blood pressure and medications for my kidneys so they did not shut down. We went home without a baby. Jeff stayed in I’d gained 100 pounds but Jeffrey was born weighing only 2 1/2 pounds. the hospital until he was big enough and strong enough to come home. Once he was home, Julie carried Jeff around in a Cabbage Patch toy baby carrier. My mother-inlaw put him in her dresser drawer in a shoebox. We bought doll clothes since there were no preemie clothes available in his size. This is my story. I still get teary eyed and a lump in my throat when I think of the events surrounding my son’s birth. It is as vivid in my mind today as it was then years ago. I learned that birth and pregnancy are not risk-free as many of us like to believe. If you are pregnant and don’t feel well, call your doctor for a diagnosis and don’t let others tell you it is normal. I am lucky Jeff and I had such good care at Munson. I also know we are strong enough to handle life’s bumps in the road. Beth Guntzviller is the owner of Miner’s North Jewelers, www.minersnorth.com, in downtown Traverse City. Her son Jeff is now 41. She can be reached at 231.946.8528. common “I can’t imagine taking my daughter—or myself— anywhere else.” counsel ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS everyone is eligible SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY MY KEY TO: TraverseHealthClinic.org (231) 935-0799 CLINICAL SOCIAL WORK COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY COUNSELING 3147 Logan Valley Rd. Traverse City, Michigan Preschool Head Start “I can’t imagine taking my“I daughter—or myself— can’t imagine taking anywhere else.” myself— my daughter—or anywhere else.” WE MAKE YOU FEEL AT HOME. Large enough to offer comprehensive services, but small enough to care, Traverse Health Clinic is more than a family practice. We are a community health center. We provide primary care and counseling on site and coordinate a variety of support services. Our goal is your complete wellness. If you are uninsured, our team can help you determine what insurance options are right for you. By accepting Healthy Michigan, Medicaid, Medicare, private insurance, and offering an income-based sliding fee scale for the uninsured, we make healthcare accessible to every person in your family. www.grandtraversewoman.com Infants/Toddlers ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS Fresh Farm to Table Food Program TraverseHealthClinic.org TraverseHealthClinic.org everyone is eligible ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS SCHEDULE AN everyone is eligible APPOINTMENT (231) (231)935-0799 935-0799 TraverseHealthClinic.org (231) 935-0799 C OC M O MMMUUNNII TT Y Y SCHEDULE AN TODAYTraverseHealthClinic.org APPOINTMENT (231) 935-0799 TODAY C O M M U NHI E T YA L T H HEALTH HEALTH CENTER CENTER CENTER C O M M U N I T Y 3147 Logan Valley Rd. 3147 Logan ValleyTraverse Rd. City, Michigan H E A L T H CTraverse E NCity, T EMichigan R 3147 Logan Valley Rd., Traverse City, Michigan Where Hearts and Minds Grow Strong Teens Young Adults Families Couples 231.883.2738 www.commoncounsel.net [email protected] 1200 W. 11th St., Room #113 Traverse City, MI May/June '15 19 Grand Traverse Woman Playing By Her Own Rules For this winning volleyball coach, success is more than the score By Kristen Lowe Leland varsity volleyball coach Laurie Glass has won two Class D state titles and led the Comets as far as the semifinals 7 times in 16 years. Her impressive record: 782 wins, 242 losses and 79 ties. But if you ask, Laurie has no idea what her record is. Frankly, she doesn’t care. Here, this amazing coach and mother shares her views of success on and off the court: A lesson in value Laurie’s love of coaching volleyball has been driven by a lot more than the sport itself. It’s about helping girls learn their value and see themselves in the best way possible. “As a female, you spend a lot of time trying to overcome those general things that come with being a woman,” Laurie said. “Not feeling good enough, feeling very self-critical and taking a back seat: things that, despite all our good intentions, are challenging for girls.” So the coach makes it her mission to teach her players their value from an early age. Laurie points out one conversation she had with a seventh-grade girl, convincing her that she didn’t have to throw a volleyball to a boy on the balcony when he asked just so he could try to shoot it in a hoop down below. “It starts with those little conversations about: ‘They would never throw you the ball if you were in the balcony, but what is it about you that says your time isn’t as valuable as his?’” Laurie explains. “It’s just teaching those really early lessons about valuing themselves as an athlete and as a female.” It’s a standing rule that the girls can’t get out of practice early to watch the boys teams… at least not until the boys come watch them first. In countless ways around Leland Public School, Laurie is known for questioning the norm for the betterment of the girls around her. The power of knowing yourself In a town of only 2,000, Laurie has managed to build a volleyball program that wins consistently. The work starts as early as middle school. In seventh and eighth grades, every girl plays every posi- More than the scoreboard Laurie’s mentoring has led to plenty of victories, but she said, “Wins are great and that’s certainly what we strive for at the varsity level, but my moments of great joy really come from individual moments of self-discovery.” Those experiences, in Laurie’s mind, happen when her female athletes overcome what overwhelms them: for example, when a player is nervous and questions her ability. “Win or lose, the fact that she got on the floor and performed despite how nervous she was feeling inside is a powerful thing,” Laurie said. “I think that’s so much more important than the win.” Tune In! Abby Reed Photography 20 tion. They don’t pay attention to the scoreboard. Instead, they set their own team goals, like hitting the ball three times before sending it over the net. “We may get murdered on the scoreboard, like 25-10,” Laurie quips. “But you come over to the bench, and the coach tells you what you're doing right, and you may hear cheers and excitement!” At the varsity level, it’s about team chemistry and mental toughness. Every week, the team spends about 30 minutes just talking about goals, problems and simply what’s going on in their heads that day. “I don’t always have the best athletes, but we win because we know things that other people don’t know—about ourselves and about who we are as a team,” Laurie said. “By the time they get to me, there’s some strong belief about whether they should or shouldn’t be winning and they don’t know they shouldn’t be.” All this year, Grand Traverse Woman and 7&4 News will be profiling some of the most powerful women in northern Michigan. Look for Kristen Lowe's reports on 7&4 News and her articles in every issue of Grand Traverse Woman. May/June '15 LauriE Glass Raising a star Of all the young women Laurie has helped inspire over the years, her own daughter, Alisha, stands out. Daughter Alisha Glass Early on, it was apparent to that her child was going to be a top player. So she had to make strategic decisions as both a parent and a coach. A 2006 graduate of Leland High School, Alisha led the Comets to the state championship that year and went on to become a three-time college All American at Penn State University. Her star continues to rise. As a member of Team USA, she is preparing for the 2016 Olympics. Laurie admits she was harder on her daughter to establish a lack of favoritism. But they had a rule: When they left the gym, they were done with volleyball and talked about “regular mother-daughter stuff.” The mother-daughter bond Today, Alisha plays volleyball professionally in Italy. Yet, even from across the Atlantic, the former high school phenom still plays an active role in her mother’s team here in Leland. Laurie listens to Alisha’s advice on drills and ways to overcome any issues the team may have. Alisha makes videos for the girls and sends messages to motivate them. Naturally, Laurie is reminded of the legacy she created when she passes her daughter’s jersey, with the retired number, each day as it hangs outside Leland’s gym. Though Laurie is known across the state for her role as a coach, the role she said she relishes most is mom. “I’m just thrilled with how she turned out as a human being,” Laurie beams. “Volleyball is just a perk.” Laurie Glass is a long-time volleyball coach and proud mother. She loves movies, kayaking and anything that involves the water. www.grandtraversewoman.com Sirrus L ................................................................................was $499 Secteur Sport 54 ....................................................... was $1050 TriCross 61 ........................................................................was $990 Myka Sport ......................................................................was $499 Hardrock M ......................................................................was $440 Hardrock L ........................................................................was $440 HardRock Disc SE 29r S .............................................was $520 HardRock Disc 29r M..................................................was $590 P20 AM M .........................................................................was $470 P20 L.....................................................................................was $530 $449 $849 $875 sale $435 sale $399 sale $399 sale $475 sale $532 sale $399 sale $450 sale sale sale Grand Traverse Woman Offers end May 11th! Great American The Power of Being Local At mBank, we support business growth by combining big bank lending skillsPower and products with community The of Being Localbank sensibilities. Now thru May 11th We look for ways tomBank, help ourwe clients improve and we appreciate our role in create a At support business growth by combining bighelping bank lending dynamic Economic growth meansWe a lot forfor Northern skills and business products environment. with community bank sensibilities. look ways why we’re dedicated to putting the power in your hands. toMichigan, help our which clientsisimprove and we appreciate our role in helping create a dynamic business environment. Economic growth means a lot for Northern Michigan, which is why we’re dedicated to putting the power in your hands. 12 MONTHS SPECIAL FINANCING AVAILABLE* *On *On purchases purchases made made with with your your Freedom Freedom To To Ride Ride credit credit card. card. Subject Subject to to credit credit approval. approval. Minimum Minimum monthly monthly payments payments required. required. See See store store for for details. details. WOMEN’S Duet helmet REG. $60 Buy 1 pair of Women’s cycling shorts, get a woman’s cycling jersey 50% off! NOW $4499 Riata Cycling Shoe ® REG. $100 NOW $7999 ® MEN’S Sport Mountain Cycling Shoe Men’s Cycling Shorts Chamonix Helmet 20% OFF REG. 100 $ NOW $7999 Traverse City REG. $60 NOW $4499 3530 North Country Dr. | 231.929.5600 SUPER ACCESSORY SALE! EE Data Station Computer SUNlight Floor Pump with Gauge WAS $30 Cycling Shoe & Clipless Pedal Combo WAS $30 NOW $1699 (3 lenses included) In your corner. Around the corner. 3530 North Country Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. Dr. | 231.929.5600 bankmbank.com In your corner. Around the corner. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. WAS $160 NOW $1999 Logic Sunglasses bankmbank.com Traverse City NOW $129 Ridgeback hitch mount car rack (2, 4 or 5 Bike models) Super Joe Pro 2 20% WAS 59 $ NOW $2995 OFF Prices starting at WAS $129 19999 $ NOW $10999 w of our great deals on all in-stock bikes! ROAD Allez........................... was $770 Dolce (W)................ was $770 Ruby Comp (W)... was $3000 Roubaix SL4 2014 was $1800 $710 sale $710 sale $2599 sale $1559 sale Roubaix Comp SL4 Disc....... ...................................... was $2899 sale $2599 MOUNTAIN $440 sale $369 TWO LOCATIONS IN TRAVERSE CITY k...... was $440 sale $369 2786 Garfield Rd. N 750 E. 8th St. ....... was $560 sale $475 (231) 941-7161 (231) 941-8855 ONE LOCATION ......... was $560 sale $475IN CADILLAC ....... was 311 N Mitchell, Downtown Cadillac mper Comp 2014.......(231) 775-6161 $2000 sale $1799 www.grandtraversewoman.com ......... was 0 BIKES IN STOCK! SALE HOURS • Fri. 9am-7pm • Sat 9am-5pm • Sun 11am-4pm (Cadillac location closed) • Mon. 9am-7pm www.mclaincycle.com May/June '15 21 Grand Traverse Woman P E DI AT R IC DE N T I ST S Because We Specialize In Children, We Treat Children Special! • Complete Oral Care from Birth to Age 18 • New & Modern Equipment to Increase Children’s Comfort Level • Treatment for Children with Special Needs • Hospital Sedation • Trauma Management • Come Visit us at our NEW LOCATION! “Dr. Matt” Matthew C. Mandeville, DDS “Dr. Jamie” James M. Van Wingen, DDS, MS FUN and exploratory atmosphere 1241 E 8th Street | Traverse City | MI 49686 231 . 947 . 4566 Both Doctors are Diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry Remind them to wear a helmet. Remind your little ones to always wear a helmet when biking, skateboarding, or playing a favorite sport. You also can support helmet safety by purchasing Kohl’s Cares collector’s-edition books and plush stuffed animals. All proceeds support local child safety efforts. munsonhealthcare.org/4seasonsafety 22 May/June '15 www.grandtraversewoman.com Grand Traverse Woman For Them: PRACTICAL. CONVENIENT. CLOSE TO HOME. Your next big move is closer than you think! If you’re not sure where to take your education from here, we have good news. A bachelor’s degree from Ferris State University is available to you, right here at Northwestern Michigan College. Earn both Ferris and NMC credit without giving up the comforts and convenience of home. Make our convenient location work for you and attend the number one choice of adult and transfer students in Michigan. Join us on Facebook @FerrisStatewide or visit us at ferris.edu/traversecity. es all s s a l c lively long! r e summ art dance music outdoor-fun science technology + MORE! Ferris state University / TRAVERSE CITY NatioNal Writers series Writers series of traverse City ™ To register: nmc.edu/kids or 231.995.1700 179 classes for kids ages 3-17 For You: Join us for a conversation with jeff shaara and guest host ed tracy June 2, 7 PM • city opera house explosive and engaging drama Jeff Shaara returns to the Civil War terrain he knows so well with his latest and fifteenth novel, The Fateful Lightning, which tells the dramatic story of the final eight months of battle. It is the conclusion of his epic Civil War tetralogy. Smart, gripping conversation about a defining moment in U.S. history. This event sponsored by: This Mother’s Day - Treat Yourself: r yo u to ou Tha nk sp so rs ! m aj or on To purchase tickets visit: www.cityoperahouse.org • Ticket prices start at $15 great stories ~ great conversations For more inFormation visit: www.nationalwritersseries.org or www.cityoperaHouse.org www.grandtraversewoman.com NMC has classes all year long: Gardening, Fitness, Culinary, Photography, Music + MORE. nmc.edu/ees May/June '15 23 Heather with son Mitchell. Grand Traverse Woman More Than Just Soccer Fields By Heather Budnik Perhaps you’ve driven by TBAYS Keystone Soccer Complex on soccer Saturdays when the 75 acres of green fields are filled with kids, parents, other relatives and coaches. When the sun is shining, the 5 year olds are chasing soccer balls that look bigger than their heads, and parents lock hands to make tunnels for players to run through, it looks very much like perfection to me. As a parent and volunteer for Traverse Bay Area Youth Soccer for more than 12 years, I’ve watched a lot happen on those fields: Super soccer moms pushing strollers through the grass laden with bags of gear and team snacks. Dads fumbling hair ties and managing uniform malfunctions. Business moms with heels sunk deep into the muddy turf. And grandmas and grandpas who have watched entire games, only to find out their grandchild was playing one field over. 231.935.1715 Office 231.357.1123 Cell [email protected] www.photobyscarlett.com Start creating the smile of your dreams today! Featuring the Damon System, Clear braces and Invisalign for fast and comfortable treatment. Complimentary consultation. Traverse City 231-929-3200 Charlevoix 231-237-0955 www.schulzortho.com 24 May/June '15 www.grandtraversewoman.com Grand Traverse Woman My older son, Matt, started at TBAYS when he was 4. Now he’s 16 and playing on the North Storm travel (U16) team and also the West Senior High School varsity soccer team. Needless to say, my family has spent more time and eaten more dinners at those soccer fields than I care to admit. Through the years, I’ve weathered many a storm there. I have dragged three kids to games in the pouring rain (not the fun sprinkle kind, the sideways soaker kind.) I’ve braved unbearably cold temperatures in layers so thick that I’ve had to announce to parents who I was before greeting them. Not to mention wind, hail, heat . . . And sometimes the storms weren’t weather related. When my son became older, the games became more competitive. There were tryouts and tournaments. Lost games or letting the team down. New challenges and, at times, heartbreaking disappointments. Yet somehow, every season, we ended up back at those same fields. The parking lot is where I give my pep talks, and where my son covers up any tears of frustration. It’s where I pat his back when things go wrong and where I pull him aside when his enthusiasm trumps his sense. It is also where I sit in my car too nervous to be close to the action, but too excited to be too far away from it either. I’ve been more than a spectator. There, at the Complex, I have staked yards of rope, scrubbed brick walls, painted lines on fields and registered teams alongside other volunteers. Sometimes the work is even as unheroic as scraping gum off the bottom of picnic tables. Along the way I have met amazing people: Soccer moms and dads who are now close friends. Sincere kids who act with great sportsmanship. And talented coaches who dedicate a portion of their family’s lives to mentor a member of mine. Being a longtime part of TBAYS has afforded me the privilege that newbie soccer parents have not yet experienced. Volunteering one morning before the cars and fans swarmed the pitch, I watched the sun come up over the empty fields, and I considered all the memories this place helped create. I estimate 350,000 kids have played on these fields in the last generation. Some went on to receive college scholarships and even play professional ball. TBAYS is a non-profit organization run by a volunteer board of directors made up of parents, coaches and community members. It isn’t perfect. But the group, along with a small, dedicated staff, work to continue to give our community the option and the area to play soccer. I was then, and still am, proud to be a part of TBAYS; an organization that helped turn an ordinary piece of land into a foundation of fields on which kids can run and rule the world. TBAYS is a non-profit organization run by a volunteer board of directors made up of parents, coaches and community members. Heather Budnik and her husband, Rod, are the parents of three children: Matt, 16; Megan, 13; and Mitchell, 7. She is the new TBAYS volunteer and marketing coordinator. To learn more, visit TBAYS.org. Mobile App with Remote Deposit Capture and Business Services Spend less time banking and focus on what’s important. Make the switch and grow your business. Josh’s Story: .com/tbacreditunion Josh Janowiak, Platinum Sound 231.946.7090 Federally insured by NCUA. www.grandtraversewoman.com May/June '15 25 Grand Traverse Woman strong Mothers & happy women Practice this pair of habits By Dr. Meg Meeker Motherhood is, without a doubt, rewarding. But over the years, seeing countless parents in my career as a pediatrician, and as a mother myself, I know it can be tough. That’s why I wrote my latest book: The 10 Habits of Happy Mothers: Reclaiming Our Passion, Purpose, and Sanity. It offers practical ways—a whole tool kit—for women to create new, healthy, emotional habits that will improve their lives. Here, I’m sharing two habits I think can make an immediate, positive impact on the lives of busy moms. All you have to do is zero in on the habit that appeals to you, and focus on achieving it! Habit #1: Maintain Key Friendships Every mother needs connections with women on different levels, women who satisfy our longing for intimate emotional bonding and others who provide us comfort and affection on a lighter level. But how do you recognize, maintain and balance these relationships in your already busy life? • Have an inner and outer circle of friends Women comprising our inner circle are usually few in number—three or four. These are the friends who can step into our kitchens at dinnertime and take over feeding our kids, put them to bed and clean up when we suddenly fall apart from tragic news. The hallmarks of inner-circle friendships are trust, maturity and faithfulness, all of which work together to cultivate the deep love between us. And each one of these must flow in two directions: Both friends must fulfill each other. Outer-circle friends, while no less valuable, are different. These are the friends who run our kids to school and soccer games and who are always up for a brisk walk after dinner. They are companions who bring laughter and comfort and uplift us when we are down. Usually there are more outer-circle friends in a mother’s life— about 10 or so. • Balance the types of friends you choose Often mothers find themselves drained by their friendships and this usually happens because they have no balance in their tribe. 26 May/June '15 There are the types of friends who need help constantly—the ones who ask (if they’re going to ask at all) how you are doing half an hour into the conversation. These women are the takers— the needy ones who are always in crisis mode. It’s fine to have a few friends like this because you have something to give, but never have only this type of relationship. It will suck you dry. You need friends who ask how you are right off the bat and also let you answer. Since friends bring their own giftedness to relationships, try to find friends with diverse gifts as well. Do you have balance in your tribe of friends? What are the different gifts you get from your friends? Do your friends accept you as you are and at the same time challenge you to improve? Habit #2: Say No to Competition As moms we compete in two arenas: we have our lives as well as the lives of our kids to watch out for. Sometimes jealousy takes such a strong hold on us that we have difficulty having any good relationships with other mothers. When we are jealous of other mothers because they seem to have life perfectly figured out, we find ourselves wanting to be with them and hating to be near them, all at the same time. We want to see how they do it, but, since we feel that we can’t do what they do or have what they have, we leave angrier than ever. We feel inadequate or guilty when we are with them that we just scrap the whole friendship thing altogether. How exactly can we opt out of all this competing and enjoy feeling more balance? • Recognize jealousy and don’t be fooled The first and most important step in changing any habit is recognizing it. So think about the voices in your mind that gently articulate the desires you have for something that another mom or person has. Simply saying it out loud can free you from your jealousy. • Head competition off at the pass Once we feel criticism, gossip or agitation at another welling up, waiting to erupt, we must tell ourselves that we will not compete. We need to say it out loud to ourselves, or at least own up to it in our minds. Once we can admit our feel- the strong parent project Dr. Meg Meeker said, “Early in my career a mentor told me this: if you really want to help your patients, help their parents because once their parents feel good about parenting, you don’t have to worry about the kids.” That philosophy has guided her career as a pediatrician, author and speaker for more than 30 years. That’s why Dr. Meg recently launched www.TheStrongParentProject.com, a site that provides members with all the resources, tools and encouragement they need to be leaders for their family. “What have you done in the last week to become a better parent for you kids?” asks Dr. Meg. “We take a lot of steps to live a healthier life, to be better off financially, plan for retirement, get a degree or get ahead at the office, but we rarely invest intentional time in our most important role, that being mom, dad or grandparent.” Dr. Meg believes it doesn’t take a lot of time to tap into one’s parenting potential. Members to her site have access to monthly coaching sessions, ebooks, expert videos and inspiring podcasts to quickly learn all they need to know to make a dramatic impact at home. Visit www.TheStrongParentProject.com to learn more and join Dr. Meg on The Strong Parent Project! www.grandtraversewoman.com Grand Traverse Woman ings, we can then admit to ourselves that we really don’t need the thing for which we are jealous. When jealousy is over large issues, we need another objective person who loves us enough not to think ill of us when she hears our stupidity verbalized. That’s what good friends do—they accept what we think and feel and take it all in stride. What’s more, a good friend may be able to see our jealousy and competitiveness when we can’t. And if she is a really good friend, she can gently tell us that. She’s the one to recruit for help to work through things. • Give frequent verbal applause One of the best ways to ward off jealousy is to speak well of the woman who has something we want. Giving praise to someone you have hard feelings for—particularly when you do it sincerely and to her face—heals all sorts of ills. • Focus on fullness, not emptiness Write down what you are grateful for and use this list to focus on what you have, not what you don’t have. Do this for three to four weeks and wait to see what happens to your mood. • Be deliberate in kindness Being kind to loved ones is easy, and it makes us feel good too. The real test comes when we reach out on behalf of those we don’t really like. And most often we don’t really like the mothers we’re really jealous of. So if we want to get rid of our jealousy, the best way to shovel out the rot of the feelings is to find something very nice to do for the other mother. It may even lead to a new or renewed friendship! The bottom line: The beauty of noncompetitive friendships among women is that each can complement the others so that many of our needs can be met. Yes, working hard at friendship is a habit in itself. But the benefits are great. It means we will be there for women and their children (and vice versa) because that’s what women who love other women do. Office hours until 7pm…. …because we get it. Traverse Area Pediatric & Adolescent Clinic 4020 W. Royal Drive, Traverse City (231) 421-8099 www.tapactc.com Innovative, Experienced and Compassionate care for your newborns, children and teens Grand Traverse WOMAN Luncheon strong and happy Every woman strives for joy and contentment, but few seem to have the answer. It’s a peculiar phenomenon at a time when the world has so much to offer. Join us at the GTWoman Luncheon on June 2 when nationally renowned parenting expert, Dr. Meg Meeker, shares: “How to be Strong Mothers and Happy Women in a Difficult Culture.” In this talk, Dr. Meg presents issues that women face as we try to find happiness, why we fall short, and the four steps to achieve the gifts that are well within our grasp. Join us for a lunch that will change your direction and meet Dr. Meg! Pediatrician, mother and best-selling author of six books, Dr. Meg Meeker is the country’s leading authority on parenting, teens and children’s health. Dr. Meg’s popularity as a speaker on key issues confronting American families has created a strong following across the nation and around the world. She has spoken nationally on The Today Show, CNN American Morning, Dateline with Katie Couric, The O’Reilly Factor, Oprah and Friends, 60 Minutes, Dr. Laura and more. She Proceeds Trails & Suttons Bay Schools calls Traverse City home.benefit Visit herTART website at www.megmeekermd.com. $1000 in cash prizes + Overall, Age Group and All-Finishers Awards "A beautiful race in a beautiful place" LEELANAU PENINSULA Sunday, August 23, 2015 25k Run 2-Person 15k/10k Relay 5k Run/Walk Benefiting TART Trails & Suttons Bay Schools Overall, Age Group & All-Finishers Awards $1000 in cash prizes www.vineyard2bay25k.com www.grandtraversewoman.com May/June '15 27 Grand Traverse Woman 28 May/June '15 www.grandtraversewoman.com Grand Traverse Woman www.grandtraversewoman.com May/June '15 29 Grand Traverse Woman See Jane Lose Janes It’s the halfway point and after 4 weeks at Fit For You, the changes, they are a’comin’! See Jane Lose Jennifer Sheehan 35 photos: Photography by Scarlett MAKEOVER • Wife to Josh, mom to Brenna (6), Lillian (5), Nora (3) and Finn (2) • Full-time funeral director and embalmer at Covell Funeral Home in Traverse City 25 lbs Lost hALFWAY Height: 5’10” Weight loss goal: 40 lbs. WAS: 289 lbs Now: 264 LBS Loss so far: 25 lbs The biggest challenge: My emotions. With so much going on between the challenge, a full-time job and a large young family, I have found it difficult not to feel completely overwhelmed. I feel as though I’m not giving each area of my life 100 percent and that has been emotionally challenging. The best unexpected thrill: How much fun I am having with the girls and the other team members. Every Saturday is guaranteed to kick our butts, but the team spirit and support is a high all on its own. It really helps to push through the tough workouts. What you love: I love everyone at the gym and all the people participating. Fit For You has a true passion to get people healthy. Every time I walk in the door, I am greeted by name with a smile. What you hate: The food! Not the food itself, but the limited options. the start It’s hard remembering how I used to sit down to a meal and really enjoy the experience of eating… not anymore. Chicken and brown rice and broccoli can only be made in so many ways WITHOUT salt or anything else that adds flavor. I am looking forward to making healthy choices with a little more variety. The biggest changes: Losing 25 pounds for someone who is 5 ft. 10 in. doesn’t really show. My clothes aren’t loose yet… well maybe a little in the bust! But, the biggest change I have noticed is my confidence coming back. I am walking a little taller and speaking out more. The funniest thing: When I asked my kids if they want to be just like Mom when they grow up, the reply was: “No, she works out too much!” It has been a big adjustment for them, but they are taking it well. I’ve always wanted them each to be their own person anyway! The Jane Events The "Jane Reveal" is at our May 13 GTWoman Network Nite at Credit Union ONE from 5-7 p.m. The Janes will reveal their final weight loss numbers as well as their makeovers from our sponsors. Join us for the night and cheer the Janes on! The Jane Articles UP NEXT: July/August issue: The final Jane Reveal, complete with their final 8-week weight loss stories, makeovers and pictures. Each sponsor will also share the story of how they took part in the Jane makeovers. 30 May/June '15 www.grandtraversewoman.com Grand Traverse Woman Sarah Kime 37 Height: 5’6" Weight loss goal: 35 lbs. • Wife, mom to Abby (6) and George (3) • Division director at the March of Dimes • Board member at the Great Lakes Children’s Museum • Field trip coordinator for TC Mom’s Club and volunteer at Glenn Loomis Montessori 20 lbs Lost hALFWAY WAS: 215 lbs Now: 195 lbs Loss so far: 20 lbs The biggest challenge: Going out to dinner with my family. I had to bring my low-fat dressing to the restaurant in my purse. That, plus back-to-back workouts. I’m incredibly sore. The best unexpected thrill: Beating my fellow WLC challengers by winning the wall-sit challenge. I did a 7:30-minute wall sit and won an additional training session. What you love: How strong I feel and how great I feel emotionally. And I’m loving all the perks! Every sponsor has been so gracious and they have gone out of their way to make me feel great. What you hate: I don’t like negativity from other people during the workouts. It’s already hard and I need to stay focused and positive. The biggest changes: My mid-section! I’m losing it and getting my athletic body back. The funniest thing: Fit For You took a video of me doing a “high knees” exercise. My glasses were flying all over the place so I looked like a Muppet doing an exercise video. the start Sweat Our 3 Janes are taking part in an 8-week program at our sponsor, Fit For You Health Club in Traverse City. The program includes: • 16 fat-blasting body transformation coaching sessions with the Jane team • 8 confidence building group challenges • 4 educational seminars • 8 week Fit For You Membership • Done-for-you-meal plan • Ongoing nutritional counseling • Unlimited email coaching and more! The Sass Hannah Pettigrew 26 • Wife and “mom” to her pets • Certified Podiatric Medical Assistant • Volunteer for Safe Harbor with her church and the annual winter and summer Microbrew Music Festivals • Donates hats and scarves to area homeless The Height: 5’2” Weight loss goal: 30 lbs. GTOC: Skin care for the Janes, plus makeup and eyewear WAS: 185 lbs Now: 170 lbs Loss so far: 15 lbs Imprés Salon Spa: Hair color & cut, manicure, make-up and blow out The biggest challenge: Keeping my mind from wandering off course. It’s such a mental commitment. It’s all or nothing. The best unexpected thrill: The rally among all the group members to succeed. We all clap. We all hug. We all swear. We all almost vomit. We all high-five. What you love: I love the way I feel. My mind is clear. I’m focused. I have so much more energy than before. What you hate: Eating breakfast. Yuck. But I do it anyway! The biggest changes: I never thought I’d enjoy waking up at 4:30 a.m., eating breakfast, working out until 7 a.m. and then going to work. But it’s energizing. The funniest thing: I don’t know if there is one specific thing but there is always something funny to be said when everyone is teasing the trainers at Fit For You while we’re working out. They are such good sports! Especially when I change the actual names of exercises to something completely inappropriate. 15 lbs Lost hALFWAY Photography by Scarlett: Before and after photos Werthmann Life Coaching One life-coaching journal/ workbook per Jane and bi-monthly group sessions At Your Service Cleaning 1 house cleaning for each Jane the start Plus Janes get free tickets to all GTWoman events during the program! At Your Service Cleaning www.grandtraversewoman.com May/June '15 31 Grand Traverse Woman Grand Traverse Network Nite WOMAN TickeTs $15 or 2 for $20 Wednesday, may 13 • 5-7 pm It 's Purse Night ... The Theme: Join us for Network Nite at Credit Union ONE's new location on Division. Our theme is “Purse Night” so get out your favoritest, wildest, prettiest, biggest, tiniest, perfectest purse and take it out for fun with the gals. The Food & Drink: The caterer will be Flavours by Sodexo-NMC and the menu includes Coconut Chicken with Orange Dipping Sauce, Mini Meatballs, Crudites and Dip, plus Artisan Cheeses and Crackers. There will also (of course!) be red & white wine and soft drinks. We will have a delicious “purse" cake from Aunt B’s. It will look so real we will have to force everyone to eat it. The Prizes: The grand prize is a Dinner and Theatre Package sponsored by Credit Union ONE. Attendees are also welcome to bring a prize to giveaway at the mic for their 15 seconds of fame. Put a face to your name with local women! This is limited to 10 women. Please email [email protected] to be on the prize list. We will also give away a prize for BEST PURSE! (Judging done by secret agents in the crowd.) The Jane Reveal: There will be prizes, laughter, mingling, networking and the… Jane REVEAL! Our 3 Janes will reveal their final weight loss and makeovers. It’s sure to be a night of celebration, laughter and (good) tears! See Jane Lose Location host: Credit Union ONE In their new location! 1407 S Division St, Traverse City See Jane Grand Traverse Lose ... and the Jane Reveal ! MAKEOVER SPONSORS WOMAN More info and tickets available at www.grandtraversewoman.com. 32 May/June '15 www.grandtraversewoman.com Grand Traverse Woman Dentistry for the whole family. We are a friendly, family oriented practice. Accepting new patients of all ages. 876 E. 8th Street Traverse City, MI 49686 231.947.6483 Tuesday-Friday 9am-5pm www.drtracydds.com TruNorth Financial Group Are you confident about your retirement? A financial advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. TNFGRP.COM Derek Dall’Olmo, CFP®, APMA® Financial Advisor Robert Revett, CRPC® Financial Advisor Heather Griffith Administrative Assistant Thomas Roop Financial Advisor Cassie Revett Office Administrator Bill Lee, LUTCF®, CRPC® Financial Advisor tnfgrp.com | 3337 S Airport Rd. W, Ste. 4, Traverse City, MI 49684 | 231.947.6700 Investment advisory services and products are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., a registered investment adviser. Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. ©2014 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved. 911613ACMR0514 www.grandtraversewoman.com May/June '15 33 Grand Traverse Woman Anne with daughters Noemi and Maeva, and husband Julien. ‘A fa n t a s t i c a dv e n t u r e’ From France to TC, one family learns American culture By Anne Grascoeur When I said, “Yes, I do!” to Julien Grascoeur on a white, sandy Hawaiian beach a decade ago, I knew I was about to share my life with a globetrotter, and that it would greatly impact our family life. Sure enough, traveling became our favorite activity, first for leisure and soon professionally. In October 2010, Julien joined Materne North America to become a plant director, taking up the challenge to build production facilities in Michigan and produce GoGo squeeZ (applesauce in squeezable pouches) for the United States market. In turn, our family of four decided to move from France to Traverse City with genuine enthusiasm. Although Julien and I had lived abroad several years and were familiar with the American culture, it was our first significant international move as a family, with our not-quite-5-year-old twin daughters. We had eight months of preparation ahead of us. In June 2011 we left Strasbourg, France, with two suitcases each, an outrageous number of carry-ons, two kids and the cat… enough until the arrival of our container at an undetermined date. I would like to share my story as a mom, wife and woman facing an international move with young children for my spouse’s career. And how, as a family, we have turned what can be looked upon as a substantial challenge into a fantastic adventure. Story from a mom “Kids come first,” one says. The story of the mom is probably the most stressful of this mini trilogy because I didn't want my daughters to be affected by our adventurous and professional choices. I had my mind set on how to facilitate their international integration. At home before the move, we decided to speak mostly English for a while. Before our arrival, I had Googled all Traverse City-related websites, and had identified many possible ways to expose our daughters to English before school would start. SoulWays BODY-MIND THERAPY & INTEGRATIVE ENERGYWORK Deep healing for the whole self Providing an integrative approach to Ń personal growth and healing, incorporating energywork, verbal dialogue, and a range of holistic therapeutic modalities. ,1752'8&725<2))(5 Ń 0,187(6(66,216)2521/< ŤƙƄƌƏƄƅƏƈŃƉƒƕŃƘƓŃƗƒŃƗƋƕƈƈŃƖƈƖƖƌƒƑƖőŃŵƈƊƘƏƄƕƏƜŃŇŜœőŃ Lee Edwards, RPP, BCST • 7UDYHUVH&LW\0, 34 May/June '15 www.grandtraversewoman.com Grand Traverse Woman My husband and I had also chosen Old Mission Peninsula Elementary School early, estimating that its smaller size would provide a stimulating environment and contribute to a smooth transition. And yet, there was an endless list of questions in the back of my mind: How was I supposed to enroll my daughters in school? School was closed for the summer. What immunization records were to be provided? Was there going to be day care or after-school activities? Even how to pay for lunch. All of these very basic pieces of information were the ones I struggled with the most until I found my way through a maze of acronyms such as TCAPS, LEAP. My daughters were warmly welcomed at school, and they have received outstanding support from their teachers, literacy club and ESL classes, school staff and friends. They now speak English fluently and even enjoy giving me a pronunciation lesson every once in a while. I sometimes laugh at myself and wonder why I worried so much. Kids simply adapt! Story from a wife and woman As a spouse and woman, I don’t see anything extraordinary in supporting my husband’s career move. But I have to confess that moving across the ocean definitely adds intensity, because it is never easy to leave family, friends and your own career behind in an international context. Thankfully, technology makes it easier to maintain relationships with friends and family when you move. When relatives visit, they just visit a bit more extensively. My American friends often joke that, even though their family lives downstate, they don’t see them as much as we see ours! All in all, it comes down to a matter of budget to manage the distance and the psychological impact of having to take an international flight home. In this adventure, my career stop was a more difficult point to handle. On the one hand, I was well aware that my kids and husband needed me to be the pillar of this international move and that my being an at-home mom would help it significantly. But my culture and education as an independent woman quickly made me feel uncomfortable not to be working. Therefore I found middle ground, first by working on my personal professional transition by getting a Masters in Human Resources Management Degree that I can use on the local market. Second, by getting involved in the community and spending time deciphering my new environment. And, more recently, by taking advantage of the current possibilities of working remotely. Story from an adventurer As a family, there is no doubt that we have dealt beautifully with this Unknown (with a capital U) that was Traverse City a few years back. We are daily trying to make the most of this enriching opportunity we have to embrace a new lifestyle and truly have enjoyed so far the specificities of American culture, first as observers but now more and more actively. When we go back to visit France, my kids tell anyone who will listen that, after all, they feel half American. And last fall, I couldn’t help but smile when they asked if we could celebrate Thanksgiving. I saw this as a result of the dual culture that is silently emerging within our family. Along the same lines, we came to particularly enjoy the idea of iconic road trips. Last spring we toured the national parks (Grand Canyon, Arches, Zion, Monument Valley and Bryce Canyon). And this year, we seriously watched the Super Bowl! I would like to extend a warm “thank you” to all the extraordinary families and durable friends we have met in Traverse City, as they have definitely played a huge role in our success story. Out of the great adventures we’ve had through our travels, and the places we’ve been, there is no doubt that people are what we value the most. Anne Grascoeur, 37, and a native of Bordeaux, France, lives in Traverse City with her husband and 9-yearold twin daughters. She holds two master’s degrees, in French and European Business Law and Operational Human Resources Management, and is currently seeking opportunities to resume her career in H.R. Free FOR ALL WOMEN , 2015 WOMEN S SUNDAY MAY 31 RIDE Imprés Salon @ 1:00pm Sign in, enjoy small snacks, and more. Ride up the Tart Trail with options of a relaxed 10 or 20 mile ride. After Party End up at the Filling Station for the Specialized Lounge and drink & pizza specials. Call McLain Cycle to reserve your spot for the ride. 231-941-7161 or 231-941-8855 The Journey Program Cancer Exercise Wellness TM The Journey Program: Cancer Exercise Wellness is a free exercise program offered to cancer patients who are newly diagnosed, undergoing treatment, in remission and cancer survivors 2 years post treatment. We believe that exercise can and should be used to improve and enhance the recovery of cancer patients. The class meets on Mondays and Wednesdays at Anytime Fitness in Traverse City or Tuesdays and Thursdays at Betsie Hosick Health and Fitness Center in Frankfort. Fair, honest and professional, the guys go the extra mile to explain repairs and arrange for free rentals. Plus, they guarantee collision work for as long as I own my vehicle. I wouldn't go anywhere else. ~Amy Reichard Administrative Director Jean Mahoney, BS, MS, CPT-ACE Cancer Exercise Specialist Clinical Director Annemarie Wigton, BS, CPT-NSCA, CMT Call for more information Register now to hold your spot for the next class Grand Traverse WOMAN www.grandtraversewoman.com Contact us: [email protected] thejourneyprogramtc.com 231-383-0153 (231) 941-1137 • 1824 Cass Hartman Court • Traverse City May/June '15 35 Grand Traverse Woman The author with her daughters: (l-r) Angie, Rachel (top), Danielle, Shirley and Nicole. Four labors One midwife ‘I wouldn’t have done it any other way’ By Shirley Aboudib Early on in our marriage, my husband, Tony, began his studies to become a chiropractor. I wasn’t familiar with chiropractic, but I liked the wholesome, natural approach to healthcare. One day Tony showed me a book by Dr. Robert Mendelsohn, a medical doctor and critic of the modern healthcare system. The doctor believed that childbirth was a natural process and should not take place in a setting where disease was present. He was a promoter of natural childbirth and home birth. I loved this idea and we decided when the time came this would be our choice. And so our story began of how a calm, skilled midwife helped us through our four labors and the unique challenges and joys they brought with them. Our first daughter, Rachel, was born after I experienced pre-ruptured membranes and a very long 30-hour labor. But she was born healthy, with our midwife and my mother as witnesses. 36 May/June '15 The next year, I was pregnant again. When it was time to deliver, both my mom and dad wanted to come. I have always been close with my dad, but wasn’t sure if I would be comfortable with him there. I took our midwife’s advice: “Just wait and see how things play out.” This was the best advice. At one point, when my back labor was very intense, the midwife asked if my dad—who had been pacing the hallways—could hold the heating pad on my back. It helped. Things progressed quickly after that and dad never left the room. He sat behind me, which made it less intimidating. Because of the speed of my labor, however, this second baby was born blue, lacking oxygen. Seeing a child with blue-gray coloring was very frightening. We all wondered: “Is he OK?” (I was sure the baby was a boy, but in truth it was another daughter for us.) The midwife was prepared with an oxygen tank and a tiny little facemask. She placed the baby on my abdomen and encouraged us to rub the baby’s body while she administered oxygen. Everything happened so fast that we didn’t have time to panic. And within about 10 minutes baby Nicole had her normal pink color back. I thank God that our midwife was so calm and knowledgeable. She didn’t alarm us and did what she needed to do to improve the outcome of our birth. When my dad, who had not been present during my mom’s seven deliveries, held Nicole close, he said with tears in his eyes, “I’ve seen calves born, puppies born and kittens born, but I’ve never seen a baby born.” He told everyone how thrilled he was to be there for her birth. Having him present also helped solidify a bond that we still share today. I’m so glad the midwife helped make that connection happen. www.grandtraversewoman.com Grand Traverse Woman Next came baby Danielle, and another labor scenario. This time I had meconium-stained amniotic fluid, which is potentially dangerous if the baby ingests it. It was something that wasn’t apparent until birth, but the midwife suctioned our baby’s mouth as a precaution and she was fine. Our fourth labor—yes, another daughter—proved to be our most complicated delivery. Many prayers were said for this little one as my four previous miscarriages were always in the back of my mind. When it was time for delivery it was expected that everything would move fast, but she didn’t seem to be progressing through the birth canal very easily. And when the midwife told me not to push I was a little distraught. It was a natural impulse to push at that point. I did a lot of deep breathing and relied on Tony to help me deal with the labor pain by using pressure-point therapy. To add to the stress of the moment, our three older girls were in the room. We had prepared them, but, of course, they were also concerned about the new baby’s delay. That’s when we learned the umbilical cord was wrapped around the baby’s neck. Her head had barely crowned so the midwife had to gently push the baby back in, far enough so that she could work her finger under the cord and slide it over the baby’s little head. This can be a difficult and uncomfortable procedure, but it created enough room for my daughter to advance down the birth canal and finally be born. It wasn’t until after the delivery that we also realized she had a true knot in her umbilical cord—shortening it even more. This can happen when the baby is very active in utero and actually ties it into a knot. Our midwife was so wise. Pushing the baby too soon could have caused the cord to become too tight and potentially cut off the blood supply to the baby causing distress and possibly death. Afterward, I sobbed. It was such a relief to know this child had arrived safely and was now in my arms. I thought back to the night before. We were sitting in the back yard and 5-year-old Danielle came running up to us pointing to the clouds. There was a skytracker light wildly chasing across the low cloud cover, I’m sure advertising some business grand opening. But my daughter’s sweet, innocent mind didn’t see that. She yelled, “Look mommy, the angels are dancing on the clouds. They are telling us that our baby is coming.” Sure enough, within a few hours I was in active labor. My daughter was right, God and angels have always been a part of our household after so much loss and I believe they watch over us and protect us from harm. It seemed appropriate to name our fourth baby, Angela, since the angels announced her birth! People have asked me how I could be brave enough to deliver at home. I feel just the opposite. It would take a lot of courage for me to deliver in a hospital. I have always felt that women have been having babies for thousands of years outside of hospitals and if they could do it, so could I. We were fortunate to have a very skilled midwife. Though each birth was different, our midwife was able to give us advice on how to handle things. She always told us that if we decided to go the medical route she would support us and go with us. It was very comforting to have her in our corner. It seems like the medical profession sometimes scares women unnecessarily into thinking they can’t handle what God has created their bodies to do. Our midwife had prepared us. When I see women on TV in a total panic because they have gone into labor at home I wonder what they are so panicked about. It’s because no one has prepared them for one of the most natural events in a woman’s life. I feel so blessed to have been able to deliver my children at home surrounded by family and comforted by familiar surroundings. I wouldn’t have done it any other way. Shirley Popp Aboudib was born and raised in Leelanau County and moved to Texas where she met her husband, Dr. Tony Aboudib. They moved to Traverse City in 2004 and opened Advanced Chiropractic and Wellness, the clinic where they work together. They have four daughters. www.grandtraversewoman.com THE HERB CONNECTION Herbs • Vitamins • Aromatherapy Wellness & Decision Support Technology Helping you reach optimal health using biocommunication. Call for an Appointment 231-271-4261 Hansen’s Plaza- Suttons Bay CERTIFIED HERBAL CONNECTION ••• GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE ••• Birch Tree Consulting Services, Inc. “Serving Northern Michigan since 1998” Accounting & Bookkeeping Services Payroll/Payroll Taxes/W-2’s/1099’s Financial Statement Preparation Bank Reconciliation Full Bookkeeping Services Accounting Software Services Installation/Training/Support Sage ERP 100 (MAS 90 & 200) Business Works Gold Quick Books P.O. Box 5616 Traverse City, MI 49696 Tel: (231) 935-0153 Fax: (231) 933-6156 Email: [email protected] Are you or your child in pain and worried chiropractic treatment will hurt? Dr. Donaldson uses KST (Koren Specific Technique) – a low force adjustment to resolve your pain issues gently and quickly. No snap, crackle or pop – just gentle taps and pain free adjustments. Holly Donaldson, D.C. KST can help with: • Back Pain • Migraines • Hip Issues • Sport Related Injuries • Children’s Posture Issues • And more! Call Dr. Holly Donaldson today at 231-929-1335 www.traversecitychiropractic.com May/June '15 37 Grand Traverse Woman Choosing happiness over money By Shann Vander Leek I almost didn’t pick it up. I was deep into budget planning for my high-powered job in television advertising and didn’t want to interrupt the painstaking process. On the third or fourth ring, however, I answered the call that would forever change the course of my life. On the line was John, a charismatic former colleague and master negotiator. Without preamble, he offered me a mind-blowing position with a media company in Austin, Texas. The promotion would mean a brag-worthy management position, a virtually unlimited expense account and a truly insane salary several times greater than the six figures I was already bringing in. Talk about an ego boost and a fork in my road! Part of me was jumping up and down screaming, “Hell, yes! This is it!” This was my chance to manifest a lifestyle that most people can only dream about. I would be an instant millionaire! But the other part of me was overwhelmed with all of the changes that would come with my new role and lifestyle transformation. John was certain that I should step up my game, join his company and get rich quick. But my intuition was telling me to consider his offer with great care. While I was weighing my options, a friend gave me a photocopy of one of the chapters of the Chinese classic text known as the Tao Te Ching. This is the passage that got my attention: “Fame or integrity: which is more important? Money or happiness: which is more valuable? Success or failure: which is more destructive? If you look to others for fulfillment, you will never truly be fulfilled. If your happiness depends on money, you will never be happy with yourself. Be content with what you have; rejoice in the way things are. When you realize there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you.” Philosopher Lao Tzu’s words struck a deep chord in me. What would it really mean for me to choose fame and fortune, I wondered? One of the biggest drawbacks to the new position was the need to uproot my family. My husband and I adored living in northern Michigan. My husband moved a lot growing up, and felt that he missed out on having a home base with long-time friends. I was quite precocious, and grew up way too fast; so I wanted our daughter, Marin (who was not quite two at the time) to be able to be a child for as long as possible in a safe place surrounded by water, woods and 38 May/June '15 beth price Photography The phone rang at exactly 11:11 a.m. wildlife. Together, we were hell-bent on giving her what we missed out on. Ultimately, after several conversations and with the understanding that there was nothing lacking in our lives, we chose to stay put. We were happy and comfortable. The financial rewards of a new position were not enough to move us away from our family and the pristine landscape we loved. I chose my family first. I chose happiness over stacks of cash. I chose to rejoice in the way things were. No regrets. But life didn’t go on as usual. That dream job offer and the passage of the Tao had changed everything for me. It was as if the shades had been lifted to brighten up my world. I became inspired to celebrate my life—to rejoice in the way things were. It was time to let go of choices, roles and behaviors that were no longer serving me, and make room for more peace, gratitude and joy. I began the journey of returning to the center of who I really am. I realized that I’d kicked my body to the curb for far too long. I was ready to get moving again. Friends invited me to check out a martial arts class, thinking I’d enjoy it. They were right! I started practicing Kuntaw (Filipino hand and foot fighting). After a couple of years, it led me to my first yoga class. Everything, and I mean everything, began to shift in my life. I felt a higher level of consciousness than I’d ever felt before. I was being reborn—birthing myself, in the way I had birthed Marin just two years before. www.grandtraversewoman.com Grand Traverse Woman NEED DESIGN WORK? Kuntaw and yoga became the catalysts for a mind shift. I realized that I was no longer content with my corporate career. That’s when I embraced my spirituality and set off down a path of entrepreneurial freedom, coaching women to make powerful transitions in their life. I have never looked back. When I connect the dots today, I can clearly see the chain of events that opened my heart to a new way of being. By choosing my family, I took the first step toward choosing happiness—for them and for myself. I’ve also learned to embrace my power and creative expression, both of which have led me to dozens of lifealtering experiences. I’ve taken a liking to photography, written my first book and co-authored four more, sat in silent retreat, become a certified yoga teacher, journaled my heart out and participated in several healing sweat lodge ceremonies. I have re-read the Tao Te Ching several times over the years since I turned down John’s tempting job offer. Lao Tzu’s ancient prose was my gateway to discovering my spirituality and my happiness. The quote that changed my mind, and my life, is prominently displayed over my sacred altar to this day. Through it all, I’ve found that choosing to live in a state of gratitude is a healthy (and sometimes challenging) daily practice. A great deal of my strength comes from the courage to be transparent, flexible and vulnerable. With me, what you see is what you get. I’m okay with that, because everything I need is already inside of me. As Lao Tzu wrote: “When you realize there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you.” SHOP LOCAL. BETHANY DESIGN Reading for the soul! A VERY LOCAL NEIGHBORHOOD DESIGNER. Find a copy of Shann’s brand new best-selling book, Inspiration for a Woman's Soul: Choosing Happiness at the Higher Self Book Store in downtown Traverse City or at Amazon.com. Shann Vander Leek is a transformation enthusiast, lifelong media expert, best-selling author and voice-over talent. She blogs at Transformation Goddess and co-hosts the award-winning Anxiety Slayer Podcast with over 1.5 million listens. Visit her at www.TransformationGoddess.com. BETH FAST FRIENDLY AFFORDABLE BETHANY GULDE 231.645.1072 www.bethanydesigntc.com [email protected] Ready to buy a home? If you’re looking for a professional, experienced approach to your home loan call Peggy Campbell at 943-2548 or Linda Waisanen at 943-2549. They’ll take care of you! 416 E. Front Street, Traverse City Call to schedule your FREE in-home estimate today! (231) 947-9488 Member FDIC • ssbankmi.com Peggy Campbell Linda Waisanen NMLS 674857 NMLS 674860 LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED www.windowstc.com Exceptional Quality Made in USA Made in USA www.grandtraversewoman.com May/June '15 39 Exceptional Quality Color Palette CMYK: 0, 100, 36, 37 CMYK: 0, 8, 22, 56 Grand Traverse Woman Military From sea bag to diaper bag By April Caverly April, Jackson and christopher For over 8 years, my sleep deprivation was caused by overnight duty shifts; standing watch and monitoring maritime distress frequencies or sounding the alarm to launch the helicopter duty crew. Now I’m a mom. Late nights are spent standing watch over my son’s crib. His cries are my alarm and my duty is to be the best mommy I can be. I enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard during my senior year of high school. I left for Recruit Basic Training, also known as boot camp, in Cape May, N.J., just two weeks after graduation. Most of my friends had no idea who the Coast Guard was or what they did, and to be honest, I really had no idea myself. It wasn’t until I was a few weeks into boot camp that I realized what a multi-mission service it was and how many career paths it offered. This branch of the military is responsible for many missions, including Search and Rescue (please wear your life jackets), Maritime Law Enforcement (don’t drink and boat), Ice Breaking Operations (how else will the ferry get to Beaver Island?), Drug and Migrant Interdictions, Aids to Navigation (like Jimmy Buffet says, keep it between the buoys), and Marine Environmental Protection. After 8 weeks of boot camp, I attended Class “A” School (technical/job specialty training) at the Coast Guard Training Center in Petaluma, Calif., to become an Operations Specialist. There, I heard so many stories from my instructors of lives they have saved and amazing experiences they had. I really had a job that 40 May/June '15 mattered, and I could not wait to get out into the fleet! After graduating, I received orders to Communications Station Kodiak, Ala., a landbased unit. Our job was to monitor long-range communications for the Bering Sea, Gulf of Alaska and North Pacific Ocean. We listened to maritime distress frequencies monitoring for any signs of distress, delivered weather broadcasts and safety alerts and kept in communications with Coast Guard assets. My first winter, I had the opportunity to go on a 7-week patrol in the Bering Sea with the Coast Guard Cutter Alex Haley to see the operational side of the Coast Guard. It was something most people only get to experience by watching extreme shows like “Coast Guard Alaska.” I was able to board a few boats carrying Discovery Channel film crews. And I got to meet the late Captain Phil Harris who was the owner/ captain of the Cornelia Marie, the “Deadliest Catch” boat. My time up there was truly an amazing experience. Then in 2009 I received orders to Air Station Traverse City, my number one choice of units. Having been raised in Michigan, I was excited to be close to friends and family again. I spent four rewarding years stationed at the Air Station working for, and alongside, some of the best Officers and Coastguardsmen in this service. During my tour in Traverse City I got to be a part of this amazing community, which became an official Coast Guard City in 2010. I volunteered at a local school through our Partners in Education program and had the opportunity to participate in multiple Cherry Festival Air Show’s and parades, open houses and other events where the community support for our unit was overwhelming. I knew that some day I would end up making Traverse City my permanent home. But “someday” came a lot sooner than I planned. I was transferred to the Coast Guard’s Ninth District Command Center in Cleveland, Ohio, which oversees all operations on the Great Lakes and navigable waterways of this region. There, after a long 12-hour shift in February 2014, I learned I was pregnant. I felt a million emotions at once. Instead of focusing on the present, I immediately jumped forward 8 months. I was not ready, nor had I planned to become a mom. There were no daycare centers that were open for the hours that I worked. Plus, my family, friends and boyfriend Christopher were back in Michigan. I had no idea what I was going to do. I made the hard decision to separate from Active Duty and move to Traverse. I wanted my child to grow up knowing his relatives and did not feel that moving around every few years would be the best lifestyle for us. I traded in my steel toe boots for baby booties, and my sea bag for a diaper bag. On October 13, 2014 I delivered a healthy and happy baby boy, Jackson Christopher. My heart felt more love than I ever knew was possible the moment I first saw him. There was www.grandtraversewoman.com Grand Traverse Woman a point I thought the Coast Guard was my whole life, then suddenly I had this precious gift and could not imagine my life without him. Now I serve in the Coast Guard Reserves, which is basically a “part-time” job where I only work two days a month and serve two weeks on active duty orders during the summer in Sault Ste. Marie, Mich. The first month I had to make the trip to the Soo, I was not ready to leave Jackson for two nights, so it became a family trip. That way I could still come back to my little man at night in the hotel. The next time I went alone and Jackson stayed home with daddy in Traverse City. It was the longest two days ever. I’ve been through a huge lifestyle change. In a few short months I not only became a mom, I also moved (and moved in with my significant other), reported to a brand new Coast Guard unit as a Reservist and started a brand new career doing something not even remotely related to what I had been doing for nearly a decade. (Did I mention I now sell real estate with my new flexible schedule?) Any one of those components would have been stressful, add them all together and watch your world flip upside down. I’m thankful my employer Christine Stalsonburg is very pro-military and understands my commitments so I am able to accommodate working both jobs. She herself is a retired fire chief and the mother of two army veterans. We work great together because she really understands every aspect of this lifestyle. I would be lying if I said it has been easy or if I haven’t had my moments filled with tears and wondering how I’m going to get through the next day. I’m very fortunate to have someone by my side—as well as close family and friends—to tell me it will be okay. thinking, “What if?” but one look over at my son and I don’t regret a single thing. One smile from him makes every challenge and struggle worth the fight. April Caverly works full time as a Realtor for Cherry Wings Realty in Traverse City. The company focuses on “Serving Those Who Serve” with their participation in the Hero Rewards Program giving back to Military, Fire, Law Enforcement and EMS Personnel. April is also a full time mommy to son Jackson while also serving in the Coast Guard Reserve in Sault Ste. Marie, Mich. It is truly amazing watching my son grow and Left: APrilday during passing the flag at a retirement Every I the hear theof helicopters flying ceremony held at Air Station Traverse City. Right: April, everyday. His isFestival the lifeAirI’m watching over participating in the Search and Rescue Demonstration duringlearn the 2013 National Cherry Show. As the "duck" overhead as a constant reminder of the past and now.and I’mwas so"rescued" proud tobybe on active mom duty! or "survivor," she was dropped off in West Bay by a surface asset helicopter. the life I left behind. Sometimes I find myself Watch Real Life Retirement Wisdom for Women Did you know? Congratulations Terry L. Knott for • Forty percent of women say their biggest fear recently achieving the 2014 Premier about retirement is they “will run out of money.” Advisor designation • Forty-five percent say the prospect of living in Home Comfort Tips retirement without a paycheck is something they It is with great that I announce will “resist as long as pleasure possible by working.” that Terry L. Knott, Financial Advisor, • What is today’s reality? First Viceretirement President – Investment Officer, Call or email has once again earned the distinction of for • How do I define tomorrow? your complimentary Premier Advisor withcopy Wells Fargo of the “2014 Wells Fargo • How can I prepare? Advisors. Affluent Women Retirement Survey” Congratulations Terry L. Knott for recently achieving the 2014 Premier designation TerryAdvisor is among a select group of Financial Advisors Take control of your future with Wells Fargo Advisors who meet or exceed Wells Fargo Advisors’ high It is standards as measured by with one orgreat more pleasure of the firms’that I announce Terry L. Knott First President Investment Officer criteria for revenue generation, educational thatVice Terry L. -Knott, Financial Advisor, Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC attainment and client-service bestPresident practices. – Investment Officer, First Vice 10850 E. Traverse Hwy, STE 5575 Traverse City,again MI 49684 has once earned the distinction Tel: 231-946-1630 Premier Advisor with Wells Fargo [email protected] Matt W. Russell Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, Member SIPC CAR-0215-02349 Branch Manager Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC 10850 East Traverse Hwy, Suite 5575 www.grandtraversewoman.com Traverse City, MI 49684 Tel: 231-946-1630 Fax: 231-946-1240 of Advisors. Terry is among a select group of Financial Advisors who meet or exceed Wells Fargo Advisors’ high Wednesday Mornings at 6:55 am on TV 7&4 News just before the TODAY Show 866-BOB-HEAT www.teambobs.com 24 Hour Emergency Service May/June '15 41 Grand Traverse Woman Home freshening from quick clean ups to deep cleaning At Your Service Up North Bonded & Insured Services “We Love Making Things Beautiful!” • GENERAL CLEANING • OFFICE CLEANING • POST CONSTRUCTION Established in 2005, our business is a local family owned company with over 10 years of experience. We love what we do! Call us for all of your household needs and we’ll make it sparkly beautiful for you! • PARTY PREPPING • MOVE IN - MOVE OUT CLEANINGS • BUDGET CLEANING • VACATION RENTALS & REAL ESTATE • HOME STAGING • COMMERCIAL CLEANING www.aysupnorth.com 231-735-1094 We treat your home with individual attention and our clients love that! With many home cleaning services, we work hard to earn your trust and confidence with every visit. Proudly serving the communities of: Traverse City, Glen Arbor, Cedar, Frankfort, Suttons Bay, Kalkaska, Kingsley and the counties of: Leelanau, Grand Traverse, Benzie & Antrim AVATA R MEDIA • CORPORATE EVENTS • NETWORKING EVENTS • HOLIDAY PARTIES • ANNIVERSARY • CELEBRATIONS • WEDDINGS “Aaron did an excellent job at our wedding, we would highly recommend him. Planning with Aaron was easy and professional, he showed up early, was organized, and had awesome equipment.” – Mr. & Mrs. Kelly, Traverse City • MORE CALL AARON TO BOOK YOUR WEDDING OR HOLIDAY PARTY NOW! AARON WOLINSKI Owner of Avatar Media Productions Premier DJ Service for Northern Michigan Preferred vendor at elite locations such as Mission Table, Traverse City Golf & Country Club, Black Star Farms and The Homestead www.AvatarMediaProductions.com 231.409.6697 [email protected] 42 May/June '15 www.grandtraversewoman.com Grand Traverse Woman Grand Traverse WOMAN Luncheon HOW TO BE STRONG MOTHERS AND HAPPY WOMEN IN A DIFFICULT CULTURE DR. MEG MEEKER speaker TUESDAY, JUNE 2, 2015 • 11AM-1PM Pediatrician, mother and best-selling author of six books, Dr. Meg Meeker is the country’s leading authority on parenting, teens and children’s health. Dr. Meg combines the know-how of a pediatrician and the big heart of a mother. Her work with countless families over the years served as the inspiration behind her best-selling books, Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters, The Ten Habits of Happy Mothers, and Strong Mothers, Strong Sons. Join The Strong Parent Project @ thestrongparentproject.com just released by Dr. Meg! Dr. Meg’s popularity as a speaker on key issues confronting American families has created a strong following across the nation and around the world. She has spoken nationally on The Today Show, CNN American Morning, Dateline with Katie Couric, The O’Reilly Factor, Oprah and Friends, 60 Minutes, Dr. Laura and more. And she calls Traverse City home, lucky us! For our GTWoman luncheon, she will be presenting “How to be Strong Mothers and Happy Women in a Difficult Culture.” Every woman yearns for joy, contentment and happiness but few seem to really find any of these. This is a peculiar phenomenon at a time when we are given more answers than one could possibly NETWORKING VENDOR BOOTHS PLATED LUNCH want on how to acquire these. Many women never find these because we are living in a culture that promotes competition amongst friends, physical perfection as an achievable (and laudable) goal and complete balance between home life and work life. Located at Hagerty Conference Center In this talk, Meg Meeker presents issues that women face as we try to find joy , happiness and con- Lunch tickets: $25 or 2 for $45 tentment; why we fall short of acquiring these; and the four steps any woman can take to get closer to finding one or all of them. In fact, she believes that all of these are within any woman’s grasp but Vendor booths: $185 (includes 2 lunch tix) www.grandtraversewoman.com we, like women around the country, are being lead in the wrong direction. Join us for a lunch that will change your direction and meet Dr. Meg. (We promise you will love her!) Grand Traverse WOMAN CREDIT UNION Locally connected. Personally invested. www.grandtraversewoman.com May/June '15 43 Grand Traverse Woman The 1,000-Mile Mid-Life Crisis This extreme hiker knows the Mitten State like the back of her hand By Loreen Niewenhuis Loreen on Flowerpot Island off the tip of Ontario’s Bruce Peninsula. 44 I was 45 years old. My marriage of 25 years had dissolved. One son was off to college. I was facing an empty nest. And I wasn’t sure I wanted to be stuck in an office. Call it a “mid-life crisis.” I was searching for that next thing. I just felt I needed to do something new and different. So I set a big goal for 2009: hike 1,000 miles around the perimeter of Lake Michigan. I was never a long-distance hiker or runner, so the idea of walking that far sounded crazy to me. It still does. I had no idea if I could accomplish my goal. That was part of the challenge: the possibility that I might fail. That way, if I did complete it, I knew I would be changed by the experience. And I was. Adventure #1 Adventure #2 After saving up money for my journey, and living by the advice to “keep a low overhead,” I began trekking counterclockwise along the lake, starting in Chicago. I hiked around 15 miles each day by myself while lugging a 35-pound backpack. When I could, I preferred to spend the night in my hammock tent near the water. Other times I stayed with friends or in nearby B&Bs. I learned so much about Lake Michigan along the way. I interviewed experts and people who lived on the edge of the water, visited museums and fish hatcheries, sought out historic sites and encountered the Suttons Bay “school ship” that is a floating Great Lakes classroom for kids. I found I wasn’t lonely. I enjoyed the solitude of my hikes and the time to reflect. Having enjoyed dune trips as a child, I felt at home on the sand. The way I’ve described it to people is that the exertion of hiking fell away, and it felt like the earth was turning beneath me, like it was completely effortless and I was completely alive in the moment. Those 64 days were a transformational experience: they reshaped my body, sharpened my senses to be perceptive to nature and expanded my belief of what I could accomplish. The journey also allowed me to fully explore my favorite place, to record it in my muscles and bones as I encircled it step-by-step. It seemed only natural for me, as a novelist, to write about my experience. My book, A 1,000-Mile Walk on the Beach, struck a chord with many readers who also love Lake Michigan. Suddenly, one big goal wasn’t enough. That first adventure gave rise to another: hiking 1,000 miles to explore shoreline stretches of all five Great Lakes in 2012. My finish line was Niagara Falls. (Luckily, I was able to fund this second dream with the help of book sales and speaking engagements.) I made sure to respect each state’s laws regarding public and private land. In Michigan, I learned the area near the water that is free of vegetation is a public zone and anyone can walk there even if private homes are built on the shoreline. In most other states, I had to walk in the wash zone (the area the waves are moving over) in order to be on public land. Docks and breakwalls often had to be clamored over. And for deeper crossings or swampy areas, there were times I used large trash bags as waders since they could easily be packed and unpacked. Without music or distractions, I was left alone with my thoughts. I discovered the unique personalities of each lake, walked the geological layers exposed at the water’s edge and also hiked some of the connecting waters between the lakes. There’s something about being where water meets land that makes me feel I could go on forever. I remember one evening camping on a remote stretch of Lake Huron, I watched a river otter playing in the lake until the sun set. Along my hikes, I met many people, struck up countless conversations and received several invitations for lodging. But I only needed to accept one such housing offer from a woman I met up near the 40-Mile May/June '15 Point Lighthouse on Lake Huron. Sometimes strangers would join me and share what the lakes meant to them. But the majority of my walks were alone. It was nice to have the time alone walking the shoreline to contemplate and re-imagine my life in the future. The whole experience was captured in my second book, A 1,000-Mile Great Lakes Walk. I was thrilled when the book won the “Great Lakes Great Reads Award” from the Great Lakes Independent Booksellers Association. One favorite part of the journey was being able to hop out to several islands along the way. Those excursions led to even more inspiration: the conception of my third adventure, a 1,000-mile journey exploring many of the islands of the Great Lakes. Adventure #3 The concept for this adventure was simple: spend one year visiting islands in each of the five Great Lakes by hiking, kayaking, rowing, boating and even biking until I accrued 1,000 miles. As I began my research, I learned that there are over 30,000 islands in the Great Lakes and their connecting waters. Yes, there are tens of thousands of islands in the Great Lakes basin. How would I choose which islands to visit? I knew I wanted to explore both remote islands and inhabited island communities, near shore islands and wild landmasses only accessible by a long boat or plane. I settled on these choices that would take me to islands in every Great Lake: www.grandtraversewoman.com Grand Traverse Woman 25 $ Don’t just say embroidery, say... OFF your next order of $200 or more. One-time use only. Limit one offer per customer. Not valid for previous purchases or in conjunction with any other offer. Sandi Pascarelli The world’s co-owner largest full service embroidery retailer! Screen Printing • Embroidery • Promotional Products 956 South Airport Road West, Suite A, Traverse City, MI 49686 231.932.0688 Loreen on Isle Royale with a pair of moose antlers. • Isle Royale in Lake Superior is a National Park, and I’d never been there. Moose and wolves inhabit this wild island and scientists have studied their interaction for more than 50 years (it is the longest-running wildlife study ever done). I got in touch with the experts conducting the research and asked to get involved. I contributed by being part of a team of hikers charged with collecting moose bones on the island. • The Manitou Islands (North and South) in Lake Michigan are part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. North Manitou has the largest population of the endangered Great Lakes piping plovers nesting there every year. I volunteered to help monitor these birds. • The Lake Erie Islands north of Port Clinton, Ohio, were the staging area for the Battle of Lake Erie in 1813. In 2013, the bicentennial year for this battle, I took part in a reenactment of the historic event as a passenger on one of the tall ships that gathered in Lake Erie. • Manitoulin Island in Lake Huron is the largest in the Great Lakes and the largest freshwater island in the world. Rock flats there bear scrapes and gouges from the glaciers that encroached 10,000 years ago to form the basins for our Great Lakes. • The St. Lawrence River at the east end of Lake Ontario is loaded with islands (the Thousand Islands) and I kayaked among them. • Washington Island is located at the tip of the Door Peninsula in Wisconsin, and I was determined to explore there, too. This island has a permanent population of 600 people, many of whom have descended from Icelandic and Scandinavian immigrants. I will say, visiting islands that were tourist destinations and seeing groups of people made me miss my family and friends. I made sure to take time to phone home and stay connected to the people in my life. Last fall I completed this most fascinating adventure by hiking the final miles on Mackinac Island. Friends and family and followers gathered there with me to walk at my side and then celebrate the end of the journey. People came from as far away as North Carolina and northern Wisconsin to walk the final miles with me. I celebrated my 50th birthday during this journey among the islands, and I feel stronger and more confident than ever. The limitations I thought I had about my life and what I could accomplish have evaporated, and I am completely captivated with our vast inland seas, our Great Lakes. In total, I’ve worn out 6 pairs of hiking boots—one pair took me more than 700 miles! I’ve walked thousands of miles solo around these lakes of ours and lived to tell the tale. I’m so thankful—my mid-life crisis evolved into a series of wonderful, mid-life adventures. Meet Loreen! Friday, May 29 - Book reading at Brilliant Books, Traverse City, 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 2 - Presentation at the Leland Township Library at 3 p.m. Book signing at 4:30-6 p.m. www.grandtraversewoman.com “The Executive Choice for DJ Entertainment” Cell: (231) 218-1004 • Tim Davis • wedding receptions • school dances • holiday parties • graduation parties • reunions • business events • expos • and more! www.exsounds.com Serving Northern and Central Michigan The Christal Frost Show with Christal Frost & Colleen Wares Weekdays 10-12 WTCM NewsTalk 580 a different kind of talk Loreen Niewenhuis lives in Battle Creek, and will tour in 2015 with the book about her latest adventure: A 1,000-Mile Great Lakes Island Adventure will be available through independent booksellers in May before it goes into full release in June. Learn more about her at www.LakeTrek.com. May/June '15 45 Annelise Nicole Photography Grand Traverse Woman A birth defect made this fam ily stron g e r By Patti Miller The millers: Chris holding Ellisyn Joy; Seated: Lilia Faith, Patti and Maya Hope. ‘One lucky mama’ Nothing could have prepared me for my journey with my daughter, Ellisyn Joy. It began with shock at the sight of a positive pregnancy test while my daughters—ages 2 years and 8 months—played in the next room. My husband, Chris, and I had always wanted three kids, just maybe not this close together. He was excited and supportive, but I couldn’t shake the anxiety. Something just felt wrong. I couldn’t get happy. I remember that our 20-week ultrasound lasted forever. At first, it was fun to see our baby for so long, moving and kicking. We were having another girl. Then our doctor came in and changed our lives forever. Something wasn’t right. She couldn’t tell us what. Our baby’s heart and lungs looked fine, but the shape of her head and spine were of concern. We would need to see a specialist. I couldn’t breathe. My heart dropped. I choked back tears. We had hoped that it would be something small...but it wasn’t. Two weeks later—the longest two weeks of my life—a specialist from DeVos Children’s Hospital in Grand Rapids diagnosed our baby with Spina Bifida. I was numb. I didn’t know anything about this birth defect. He explained as much as he could… How Spina Bifida is a neural tube birth defect in which the spinal cord does not develop correctly. The location of the defect would determine our daughter’s nerve damage and abilities. She would most likely be paralyzed or have some loss of function. I learned there are four types, but there was no way of knowing the severity at this point in the pregnancy. Then the specialist informed us that we had two weeks to legally abort the pregnancy. An enchanting convergence of quality and creativity offering lovely floral bouquets for Mother’s Day, Weddings and all of your special moments. TODAY’S BEST HITS Exceptional selection of cards and unique gift and decor items. COME VISIT US IN THE HISTORIC VILLAGE AT GRAND TRAVERSE COMMONS Z93hits.com facebook.com/Z93Todaysbesthits 46 May/June '15 800 COTTAGEVIEW DRIVE SUITE 55 TRAVERSE CITY, MI 49684 [email protected] 231.947.1167 www.grandtraversewoman.com Grand Traverse Woman There was so much uncertainty. But we decided our baby would be one of the 1,500 children born in the United States with some form of Spina Bifida that year. The rest of the pregnancy was a blur of tears, anger, guilt, research, appointments, ultrasounds, plans and updates. We decided we would deliver at Mott Children’s Hospital in Ann Arbor because we had family nearby and the doctors felt confident that I could deliver her naturally instead of via C-section. I went into labor at 37 weeks. After a very scary drive to the hospital at about 90 mph and 11 hours of labor, our beautiful daughter made her appearance at 7:59 a.m. on August 4, 2013. It was a moment of pure joy. I delivered in the operating room and, as they rushed her away, I got to see her little legs moving and kicking. My husband was able to follow her and watch as she tried to crawl off the table as they tried to cover her back with Saran wrap. We were so happy. At the hospital, we found out Elli has the most severe type of Spina Bifida, called myelomeningocele. Basically, her spine developed with a hole in it and skin grew around it, causing the spine to be exposed. She needed surgery to close it right after birth. Also, her defect was between the L4 and L5 vertebrates, not as low on the spinal cord as we were hoping. Our daughter was in the NICU for 11 days, which was amazing considering they told us to prepare to be there for at least a month. She went through a six-hour repair surgery with a team of neurosurgeons and plastic surgeons. After that, it was a whirlwind of nurses, doctors, feeding tubes, tests and head ultrasounds. It was pure agony not being able just to pick Elli up and snuggle her. She was so sweet, tiny and even tempered. The hardest part for our family was never knowing when we were going home and dividing time between our daughters and the hospital. We are blessed with a very supportive family. I’m not sure what we would have done without them. I can’t describe how amazing it was when it was time to bring our baby home. Every day Elli surprises us and surpasses all expectations. She walks with a walker and has ankle braces. Every smile and laugh and obstacle she overcomes makes every bit of our journey worth it. It hasn’t been an easy road. At two months old, she had excessive fluid in her brain, a condition called hydrocephalus. She had surgery to insert a tube, called a shunt, into her head to drain the fluid so that her brain could develop correctly. At four months, some testing indicated that, due to the nerve damage from her defect, she was unable to go to the bathroom on her own. I use a catheter to help her go every four hours to prevent kidney damage. Elli is now 19 months old and completes our family in a way we can’t explain. She is happy and sweet and loves with such a big heart. There are so many days that I hate Spina Bifida and all the insurance issues, appointments and medications, but with every new challenge, Ellisyn reminds me of how much stronger we are now as a family. We aren’t exactly sure what the future holds, but we try to look for the happy in each day and celebrate the little accomplishments. I am one lucky mama with three very different, beautiful girls who melt my heart when they show each other understanding and kindness at such young ages. Nothing could have prepared us for this journey, but I wouldn’t change a thing. So to all the moms out there, especially those who have kids with special needs, or who just got some tough news during your pregnancy, you are not alone. It will be OK. You never know what miracles tomorrow will bring. Patti Miller is a stay-at-home mom and artist in Traverse City. She and her husband, Christopher, have three daughters: Lilia Faith 4; Maya Hope 3; and Ellisyn Joy, 20 months. GRAND TRAVERSE Nursery Sales and Landscaping RETAIL / WHOLESALE TREES, PLANTS, SHRUBS, COMPOST, WOOD MULCH, DELIVERY, LANDSCAPING, IRRIGATION, HYDROSEEDING YOUR ONE STOP LANDSCAPING CONTRACTOR 4715 US HIGHWAY 31 SOUTH TRAVERSE CITY, MI 49685 231-943-4060 www.grandtraversenursery.com www.grandtraversewoman.com May/June '15 47 Grand Traverse Woman Two Girls. Two Years. One Boat. Surviving the Great American Loop By Jessie Zevalkink Three years ago, my best friend Katie Smith and I had this wild idea ers consisting of the Illinois, Mississippi, Tennessee and Tombigbee waterways thrown into our lap by my father to buy a boat and sail to the Bahamas alone. leading us towards the Gulf of Mexico. It took us about a month to adjust to Yes, that’s right, my own father suggested that “his little girl” hop on a sailboat our new simple way of living/camping, and fall into our roles as captains and and head for the open ocean. With minimal sailing experience, and no ocean as crew. After two more months we made it to Fort Myers Beach Florida, where we cruising knowledge, this idea seemed nearly impossible. ran out of money. Desperate for work, we spent a season waitressing—sling Katie and I have been best friends since we were little girls. Equally as ing food and drink to get back to our dream. Four months later, our wallets wild and free as we were level-headed and were full. on-course. We knew no one else in our lives The Okeechobee Waterway slices the state interested in leaving everything comforting of Florida in half—east to west—with just and familiar behind. But it seemed exciting. enough water to pass through via boat. We We became addicted to its possibility. spent five days crossing the state, alligator “America’s Great Loop” is 5,000 to 7,000 hunting and bird identifying under the heat of miles of inland rivers and waterways circling the sun, while drinking warm beer and baththe eastern half of America. It is an uncoming with thick swamp water. mon journey known mainly by those who live Traveling south down the intra-coastal along the route, and taken mostly by retired waterway, we glided by mansions with front folk. My father traveled the Loop back in the doors larger than our mast and yachts the size 70’s and has talked about it for as long as I can of Rhode Island. We passed time by picking remember. The only reason Katie and I were out our dream homes, playing “would-youup for the challenge was because we hadn’t rather,” listening to the same play-list over and a clue what we were getting ourselves into. over, reading, writing and trouble shooting Which is why this is all somewhat comedic. constant engine issues. We were partners in crime, and this crime was Every day was different, always a new too good to pass up. problem to solve or a new topic to discuss. By The idea started as a joke for several the time we reached Miami, our next hurdle months, but as time passed that joke morphed was to cross the Gulf Stream—equivalent to a into a precise plan. We bought the boat, and 50 mile-wide Mississippi River in the middle moved back home to Michigan. Just because of the ocean, where the current runs up to 5 the idea was handed to us, didn’t mean anyknots, and swells will eat you if you choose Map of the great loop thing else was. The process of buying and fixthe wrong day. Conservatively, we waited and ing up the boat constantly distracted us from the whole reason we took on the waited until the perfect weather window. project in the first place. I was sick to my stomach with nerves the day we crossed. That afternoon, We poured our time, money and hearts into making our boat a function- Katie caught a big ole tuna, our first catch. Nerves faded to excitement. My ing home. Over a summer we learned about mechanics, plumbing, electricity, nausea cured by the Black-fin tuna and water so clear you could see China. dedication and how having dirty fingernails could be cool. It was the most I cried when my eyes caught first sight of the Bohemian land we had worked frustrating project we had ever gotten ourselves into. I was ready to strangle my so hard to get to. Arriving at the islands was far more magical after a year of father when he had me sanding bottom paint and eating fiberglass! preparation and anticipation. Like everyone, we could have hopped on a plane On September 4th, 2012, Katie, her dog Reggie, and myself took off into to be there in a matter of hours, but instead we traveled 25 miles a day at 5 Lake Michigan aboard our sailboat “Louise.” We motored down a series of riv- miles an hour. I could have jogged faster! 48 May/June '15 www.grandtraversewoman.com Grand Traverse Woman Katie and jessie feeling patriotic at home, as they travel through Canada and back into the Great Lakes. Jessie’s favorite spot in the cockpit. [Photo by Abbey Moore Photography] Three months of island hopping became the greatest and scariest days of our lives. Hurricane season came around the corner about the same time we were running out of money and ready for a break. What a better place to take a break from traveling than Key West? We stopped to work once again with intentions to save just enough to complete “The Loop.” Finally, we began to move north up the intra-coastal waterway in the spring of 2013. Every single day we asked each other if we should turn around. But the idea of arriving in Canada was equally as appealing as the Bahamas had been, so we continued to move north. The East Coast completely took us by surprise with its ever changing scenery and culture. Loving America more and more every day, we reached New York City, confirming that our movement north was in fact the right direction. Navigating around one of the largest cities in the world via tiny sailboat was blood pumping—it was incredible. Shortly after, the rocky shores and thick trees in Canada had us playing like little kids, even though it was so cold we both looked like we were dressed to go skiing. Katie Smith, Jessie Zevalkink and Captain Reggie camp out on Normans Cay in the Bahamas. It took us two years to the date to complete “The Loop” crossing our wake in Northport on Sept. 4, 2014. I was more than humbled over the course of those two years. Both of us learned so much more than sailing… than navigating… than weather… than diesel engines and resource management. I learned to slow down. I learned to know myself before anything or anyone. I learned the importance of friendship, and the importance of communication. We both learned what we were capable of. Now with an entirely new perspective on what we have right here in our backyard—in the Great Lakes and in America—I am so excited to help reintroduce “The Great Loop” to my generation. America’s Great Loop was the best thing that ever happened to me. Jessie Zevalkink grew up in Grand Rapids and spent summers on the lake in Northport. She is currently living in downtown Traverse City, working on a book and pursuing photography. To learn more, visit her blog at http://katieandjessieonaboat.com or her photography site at www.jessietakespictures.com. chicago Road Trip Friday - Sunday, October 2-4, 2015 ! S e S U B 4 SOLD OUT Save the Date June 21st Brought to you by: Grand Traverse WOMAN at Timber Ridge Campground Sister Sponsors: www.acpaw.org It’s Going to be a Blast! Dog Agility • BBQ • Family Reunion & More www.grandtraversewoman.com May/June '15 49 Grand Traverse Woman Grand Traverse WOMAN in business NEW The Traverse Area District Library (TADL) Board of Trustees has appointed Gail Parsons to serve as director of the district library system. Parsons has served as the district library’s interim director since May 2014. She joined TADL in 2008 as business manager and later served as assistant director for human resources and finance. As director Parsons will oversee district library operations while working with library trustees to manage the budget, identifying areas for improvement while guiding the direction of the library. Parsons earned her undergraduate degree from Central Michigan University and her Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science from Wayne State University. TADL provides public library services online and in six facilities with its main library located at 610 Woodmere Ave. in Traverse City. www.tadl.org Liz Lancashire, store manager of Fustini’s, announces the May opening of Fustini’s School of Cooking, offering classes for all cooking enthusiasts with a special focus on making the most out of oils and vinegars. Designed by Fustini’s Corporate Chef, Andy Stewart, the school teaches everything from the basics to the most advanced cooking skills. Regularly scheduled classes range from 30 minutes to 2 hours. The School of Cooking is held in the new kitchen within Fustini’s at 141 E. Front Street in downtown Traverse City. Visitors can also check out the new Fustini’s Pantry, offering products including the new line of Fustini’s private-label tapenades, spreads and jams, as well as pasta, honeys and salts. 231.944.1145, OperaAd.qxp_Layout 1 4/14/15 11:52 PM Page 1 [email protected] WHEN YOUR IMAGE IS ONSTAGE, MAKE SURE THE DELIVERY IS THE BEST IT CAN BE! ALPHA MAIL INC. PUSHING THE ENVELOPE SINCE 1999 231.263.4620 email: [email protected] Web: www.alphamailinc.com Alcona Writers Retreat Alcona Writers Retreat June 4 - 7, 2015 231-631-4919 Three prominent Michigan [email protected] authors and teachers will [email protected] lead you on the adventure of telling your own stories 3BRM 2 BATH RANCH, BEAUTIFUL BUILD SITE! memoirs, WITH 13through ACRES AND BARN poems or short fiction. The setting is pure Up North: a lakeside lodge with views of the forest, deer wandering by, a quiet place perfect for releasing your inner writer and making new creative friends. The setting is pure Up North: a lakeside lodge with views of the forest, deer wandering by, a quiet place perfect for $199,900 $213,000 releasing your inner writer 1239 N Betsie River Road Over 168 feet of lake frontage and making new creative on Duck Lake, Interlochen Interlochen, MI 49643 friends. InspirationAlcona.org May/June '15 Beth Chiles has joined EXIT Realty Paramount as a Realtor. Chiles has worked in the real estate industry for more than ten years and was a higher education administrator in Florida for several years before her move to the Traverse City area in 2003. Chiles’s goal is exceptional customer service, and a referral from a satisfied customer is her greatest reward, said Holly Hack, broker/owner of EXIT Realty Paramount. 803 W. Front St. Suite A, Traverse City, 231.946.4404, TCEXIT. com TBA Credit Union has announced new positions for three of its staff members. Meghan Elliott has been selected as the new branch manager for the Front Street branch. Holding a Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Studies from MacMurray College, Elliott Three prominent Michigan authors and teachers will lead you on the adventure of telling your own stories through memoirs, poems or short fiction. Learn more or sign up at 50 Kelly Rayment, April Prince and Teri Miceli Bowen have joined the team of Century 21 Northland agents. Born and raised in Michigan, Rayment owns vacation rentals in the area and is a lifelong investor of both residential and commercial real estate. Prince has lived in Traverse City with her family for 18 years, where she has contributed to the growth of three local companies. Bowen grew up on Old Mission Peninsula before relocating to Atlanta, Ga., following her graduation from Traverse City St. Francis. After a 20-year career building a real estate business in Atlanta, Bowen returned to Northern Michigan. Rayment is located at Century 21 Northland’s Traverse City office. [email protected], 231.929.7900. Prince and Bowen are located at Century 21 Northland’s downtown Traverse City office. april.prince@ c21northland.com, 231.633.7072; [email protected], 231.631.8840; www.c21northland.com Bouwman Realty Group June 4 - 7, 2015 ALPHA MAIL INC Events North has promoted Rachel Jarosz to senior meeting and event manager. Jarosz manages corporate client meetings and events throughout Michigan. Events North is a full-service meeting- and eventmanagement agency. 231.883.2708, www. EventsNorth.com Learn more or sign up atshowing! Call for your private InspirationAlcona.org www.bouwmanrealty.com www.grandtraversewoman.com Grand Traverse Woman previously served as member service officer for TBA Credit Union. She joined the credit union in 2012 and has over 12 years of experience in the banking industry in the areas of marketing, lending, compliance and supervision. Elliott will oversee daily branch operations and staff, assist with strategic planning and review loan requests. Mae Bradford was promoted to the role of member service specialist at the South Airport branch. Previously serving as a member service representative since 2014, Bradford will be responsible for opening business and personal accounts, preparing loan documents and evaluating loan requests. She has an Associate’s Degree in Applied Sciences from NMC. Stacy Oster will transition from the position of member service representative at the South Airport branch to phone operator at the Front Street branch. Oster has been with the credit union since 2013 and previously worked as a retail assistant manager. In her new role, Oster will handle incoming phone calls and assist with other accounting department tasks. 231.946.7090, tbacu.com Traverse Traveler, a 14-year-old marketing service, has merged into Visitors Media, creator of ExploreTC and publisher of the Traverse City Dining Guide. This merger unites two media companies with a shared mission: to provide hotel guests with entertaining and educational information about the best restaurants, wineries, breweries and attractions in Northwest Michigan. After suffering a layoff in the wake of 9/11, Brandy Wheeler launched a marketing service to promote local restaurants and attractions utilizing card displays in hotels throughout the region. “After 13 years on my own, I knew the next step to grow Traverse Traveler was to expand. I began working with SCORE to evaluate my options, when I discovered ExploreTC, it didn’t take long to realize our products compliment one another,” said Wheeler. Visitors Media began providing digital video solutions for retail and hotel customers in 2011. In 2013, relationships in the hospitality industry led to the development of ExploreTC, a local travel channel broadcast in over 2,480 hotel rooms. Visitors Media purchased Traverse City Dining Guide and published their first issue in 2014. With the addition of Traverse Traveler they rounded out a portfolio to offer marketing solutions inroom, in lobby and in hand in 86 percent of the hotel rooms within the Traverse City Tourism district. Wheeler has joined Visitors Media, LLC as a partner and its Creative Director. 805 W. Front St., Suite C, Traverse City PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Alpha Mail 49684 Grand Traverse WOMAN northern michigan’s network for women ◆ Bonny Hall has joined Monarch Home Health Services as vice president of operations. Hall relocated to Traverse City from the Detroit area in 1998. Prior to moving to Traverse City she served in the United States Air Force. Before coming to Monarch she was office manager in a local downtown retail store. She will oversee business management, staffing and daily operations. 697 Hannah Ave.. Suite D, Traverse City. w w w. m o n a r c h h o m e h e a l t h . c o m , 231.932.0708 Heidi M. Hodek is a partner in the newly opened Ranieri Hanley & Hodek, PLC, law firm at 4020 Copper View, Suite 225, in the Copper Ridge professional development. The firm is a full-service law firm with experience in health care, personal injury, litigation and appeals, and business law. including nursing home and day care negligence, criminal, and family law. Hodek previously was personal injury attorney at Dingeman & Dancer, PLC. www.rhhlawtc. com Floor Covering Brokers has unveiled its second Northern Michigan location on US31 North in Acme. The retail store will THE KUDOS Over half of the agents of RE/MAX Bayshore Properties’ offices received sales and service awards at the RE/MAX of Michigan Annual Conference and Awards Gala held in February. Maureen Penfold ranked third in the Top 5 Individuals in Commissions Paid and was the top female agent. She also was recognized as a 2014 member of the Chairman’s Club, the highest award for annual sales performance, and received the Silver Service Award for 25 years of service with RE/MAX. Marsha Minervini was admitted to the Platinum Club for outstanding sales performance in 2014. Lisa Rossi and Sandy Gunning became members of the 100 Percent Club for their 2014 sales performance. RE/ MAX Bayshore Properties serves Benzie, Grand Traverse, Leelanau and Kalkaska counties from four offices. 231.941.4500, www.remaxbayshore.com JULY/AUG ISSUE EDUCATION RECREATION & JULY/AUGUST '15 ISSUE Free act as a showroom, flooring design center, and a venue for homeowners, architects and builders to work with Floor Covering Brokers employees on selection, measuring and installation of quality flooring. Floor Covering Brokers is the largest, privately owned floor-covering retailer in Northern Michigan. They specialize in the design and installation of all types of flooring including: carpet, tile, hardwood, laminate, area rugs and window blinds. 1794 Barlow St., Traverse City, 231.941.4700, www.floorcoveringbrokers.com N EDUCATIOssu I e ON NEWSSTANDS IN TIME FOR CHERRY FESTIVAL! Topics include: • When Mom graduates and more • Road trips, 5ks, Weekend Warriors & Sports Health Grand Traverse Attention Advertisers: Ad deadline is June 15th WOMAN www.grandtraversewoman.com Email Kerry today! [email protected] 231-276-5105 May/June '15 51 Grand Traverse Woman Cindy Lardie was named TBA Credit Union’s 2014 Employee of the Year. Candidates for the Employee of the Year Award are nominated by peers and chosen based on team cooperation, attitude, community involvement and leadership. Lardie serves the credit union as the marketing and education coordinator. Her peers describe her as enthusiastic, supportive, a joy to be around and passionate about the mission of TBACU and the Student-Run Credit Union Program. She will celebrate her five-year anniversary with TBACU this year. 231.946.7090, tbacu.com Mary Lannin, owner of Personal Best Personal Training, is celebrating her 10th anniversary as a fitness consultant in Traverse City. Her private studio is located on West Grand Traverse Bay in the CenterPointe Building. She is newly certified through the National Council for Certified Personal Trainers and is also certified for personal training, sports performance nutrition, and lifestyle fitness coaching through the ISSA. 231.883.2286, personalbestbymarylannin.com Sharon Smith is celebrating her 15-year anniversary with Digestive Health Associates of Northern Michigan (DHA). At DHA, she is responsible for many administrative duties, including patient “chart prep” and pre- and post- visit organization of medical records. She has also assisted in the transition into the world of electronic medical records. Digestive Health Associates of Northern Michigan (DHA) also recognizes two employees who are retiring. Joyce Wright is retiring after 23 years of service. “Joyce has always excelled in her ability to make our patients feel welcome and comfortable in a setting where many times people are nervous and anxious,” said Gail Eminhizer, practice administrator. DHA also recognizes Greta Sheffer's 22 years of service and care as a registered nurse with the practice, most recently as a nurse triage team member serving as patient coordinator and advocate. Prior to joining the DHA team, she worked in alcohol and drug rehabilitation, family practice and for the Michigan Department of Public Health. DHA is dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of diseases of the digestive tract. 231.935.5710, www. dha-nm.com EVENTS Grand Traverse Ophthalmology Clinic will host its annual Spring Trunk Show on Thursday, May 7, from 1-7 p.m. There will be a large selection of fashionable frames from top designers like, Lucky Brand, Converse, Michael Ryen, MODO, Scott Harris, Jones of New York and Prodesign. Discounts of 20 percent or more are offered on complete pairs of glasses ordered during the always-popular event. Refreshments will also be served. A percentage of proceeds from the sale will benefit Traverse Health Clinic, Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency and TART Traverse Area Recreation Trail. GTOC will also be accepting donations of non-perishable food items for the Father Fred Foundation during the trunk show. Grand Traverse Ophthalmology Clinic, 929 Business Park Drive, Traverse City. 231.947.6246, www.gtoc.net Big Brothers Big Sisters (BIGS) Annual Bowl For Kids’ Sake is the BIGS’ most important fundraiser of the year, providing 30 percent of the organization’s annual revenue. All proceeds benefit current mentoring matches and the kids waiting for a Big Brother or Big Sister. Teams consisting of four members are asked to collect a minimum of $125 in donations. BIGS recognizes FOX Motors and Bill Marsh Automotive as the Kingpin Sponsors and the following VIP Business Sponsors: Cherryland Electric Cooperative, Chemical Bank, Midwestern Broadcasting and Incredible Mo’s. BIGS is the longest-serving youth-mentoring organization in the region, serving children in the five-county area. Its mission is to provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported, one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better. If you can’t participate in Bowl for Kids’ Sake, just text “Big” to 88588 and make a donation to help BIGS reach its fundraising goal of $100,000. www.bigsupnorth.com The Friends of Michigan Midwives is sponsoring a fundraiser concert and silent auction on Mothers’ Day, May 11, in support of Michigan Licensure for Certified Professional Midwives. A concert will feature music from Miriam Pico, E Minor Trevor Hobbs and Seth Bernard. The event will be held at The Circuit, 225 W. 14th St. in Traverse City. Enjoy Short's Beer and Northern Natural wine tastings, Northwoods sodas and snacks! Doors open at 4 p.m. and the concert is 5 to 7 p.m. Admittance is $15/person or $40/ family at the door. Early registration is now open for the 2nd Annual Vineyard to Bay 25k, 15k/10k relay and 5k run/walk set for Sunday, Aug. 23. Proceeds from all races benefit Suttons Bay Public Schools and TART Trails. The entry fee is $45 for the 25k, $65 for the two-person 15k/10k relay and $28 for the 5k until June 1. All races are point-topoint and encompass both the Leelanau Trail and Wine Trail of Leelanau County before ending in Suttons Bay. Cash prizes totaling $1,000, age group awards, and all-finishers awards will be given. www. vineyard2bay25k.com McLain Cycle and impres Salon Spa welcome you to join them on Sunday, May 31, for the 2nd annual 2015 Women’s Ride. The theme is #DontSweat #Sparkle! The event begins at impres Salon Spa at 1 p.m. with registration, snacks, Specialized women’s bikes to demo and guest speakers. The ride will then go up the TART Trail toward Suttons Bay. The group will be spread out between beginners, intermediate and advanced. ALL abilities welcomed and encouraged. There will be a 10- and 20-mile route. The theme is #DontSweatSparkle! Last year 65 women attended and this year the goal is to double attendance. Bring a friend! The ride ends at the Filling Station at the Depot where there will be a Specialized Lounge to welcome riders along with drink and pizza specials and giveaways including a Specialized Vita bicycle! This event is sponsored by Specialized, McLain Cycle, impres Salon Spa, The Filling Station Microbrewery, Grand Traverse Woman Magazine and Women’s Resource Center. Call McLain Cycle to reserve your spot for the ride at 231.941.7161 or 231.941.8855. Demo bikes are available upon request. The event is free. Donations for the Women’s Resource Center are appreciated at registration. Hello Spring! come see what’s blooming OPENING DAY MAY 1 • Kid’s Club • Hanging Baskets • Native Plants • Veggies and Herbs • Recycling • Workshops • Custom Containers • Perennials • Annuals • Patio Pots BREEZE HILL GREENHOUSE BREEZE GREENHOUSE 7230 HILL HARRY’S ROAD, TC 49684 7230 HARRY’S ROAD, TC 49684 231-941-7295 • breezehillgreenhouse.com find us on FACEBOOK 231-941-7295 • breezehillgreenhouse.com find us on FACEBOOK 52 May/June '15 Comprehensive Dental Care for the Whole Family 8 7 6 E . F r o n t S t r e e t | Tr a v e r s e C i t y, M I 4 9 6 8 6 231.947.6880 | www.RoseStreetDental.com www.grandtraversewoman.com Grand Traverse Woman Grand Traverse Network Nite WOMAN It 's Purse Night ... WEDNESDAY, MAY 13 • 5-7 PM ... and the Jane Reveal ! See Jane Lose at Credit Union ONE TICKETS $15 or 2 FOR $20 See Jane Lose MAKEOVER Get Ready for Summer! Let me help you buy a house near the beautiful new YMCA! Call LOU ANNE for help with all the details. (14 years of experience & many happy clients) Lou Anne Ford Associate Broker 231-645-3643 [email protected] 241 E. State Street, Traverse City Let’s all do The Barbecue! Sunday, May 17, 11am-5pm NOR THWESTERN MICHIGAN COLLEGE Tickets: $6 advance, $8 day-of nmc.edu/bbq Th is Gallagher burger is the best! Our Daddy raises the best beef and pork around! GALLAGHER FARMS K N O W Y O U R FA R M E R • K N O W Y O U R F O O D • B U Y L O C A L We h ave th e bes t brats around ! NO GMO NO GROWTH HORMONES, ANTIBIOTICS, MSG OR NITRATES Come to us for Black Angus beef, born and raised on our farm, as well as homegrown pork. Individually packaged or in quarters and halves. Fruits and Vegetables in season. Available at Trattoria Stella, and many local Farm Markets. C SA Available Hours: Mon-Fri 12-6, Sat 10-2 Joanne 231-218-0771 or Katie 231-642-7361 • Farm Market 231-421-5199 5904 N. Long Lake Road (3 Miles from T.C., just past T.C. West) www.grandtraversewoman.com May/June '15 53 momma 1210 Grand Traverse Woman By Kandace chapple www.kandacechapple.com Cookie’s secret life Cookie is living a secret life. She disappears for hours at a time and has no explanation for herself. Finally, it came out. I saw her picture on Facebook. She was on a back deck that wasn’t ours, enjoying a drink with a man who wasn’t Tim, outside a house that wasn’t hers. “What is thisssss?” I asked her, showing her the photo. She said nothing. We knew she liked to visit the neighbors, but this was going too far. Now she was posing for other families’ Facebook photos? She’s refused every selfie I’ve tried with her. It started last summer. She would disappear for a few minutes and, just when I decide to panic, here she’d come loping down our long driveway. We live on 12 acres, behind other houses, secluded from the road. So I usually didn’t worry. Wherever she had been was somewhere between the trampoline and a field of crabgrass. Things escalated by fall. She would roar out the back door each morning as if on a mission. We have a community dog trail in the woods. It’s a combination of our property and the next and has turned into a nice little free-for-all for the dogs. This means that on occasion I’ll be out back in my rattiest fat pants, Tim’s sweatshirt with paint dried on the sleeve and wearing a pair of the kids’ sunglasses, when one of the neighbors will appear on my property. “Greetings, Cookie,” he will say. “Hello, Savannah,” I will reply. We always choose to talk through the dogs. Much safer than admitting my state of dress. Roger, unforgivably, always looks dapper. Next, I got a call from Barb, a neighbor up front. “Kandy, do you realize Cookie has been here all day?” “All day?” I say, stalling. Oh dear. It was time to pick the kids up from school, and I had last seen Cookie barreling out the back door to see if anyone was out walking at 8 a.m. To my credit, I had been so busy that I was still dressed in last night’s sleeping attire/outback hiking outfit. “Well?” she asked. I cringed. What would she say next? “Can Cookie stay for dinner?” (Note, I’ve never had dinner with them.) Before I said yes, I knew Barb was peeling open a can of soft food. I stared at the dayold dry food in Cookie’s bowl and hung up. Next, a chance meeting at the grocery store. This time it was Mary. “I just love that Cookie!” she said, as we walked side by side out to the parking lot. “I haven’t seen her in a week; is she OK?” We’d been gone to Gulf Shores on vacation. She hadn’t noticed our entire family was also missing. That’s when Mary saw Cookie in the car. “Oh my Lord, you have her right here! Cookie!” she squealed. trouble (in the) hood 1409 cookie at home for once. I had to unlock the back not to put the groceries in, but to allow Mary and Cookie a reunion. “Now, hold on,” she said. She produced a dog biscuit from her purse. “Here you go!” It was bigger than any dog biscuit I’d ever seen, approximately the length, depth and weight of a grown woman’s purse. “See you back at home, Mary!” I called, waiting her out so I could go back into Tom’s and buy gigantic dog biscuits and soft food. It was becoming apparent I would have to woo my own dog. And the last straw: Char’s Facebook photo of Cookie lounging on their back deck. “Is this dog ever home?” I asked Tim. It was like having a teenager with a (dog) license. “At least she’s in good hands,” he replied. It was true. Cookie was living the high life. Taking handouts and entire meals and epic dog biscuits at not one, but five houses in all. That we know of. But if I see one of the neighbors set up a fan page for her on Facebook, I’m drawing the line. By Kerry winkler Hermit Crab, Take 2 We were in Alabama for spring break with Brook begging to get another pet hermit crab. Her current crabs had not proven too difficult and, in fact, I often forgot we even had them. So I said, yes, not knowing what trouble was about to begin. My dad helped Brook pick out the biggest, liveliest crab they could find at the tourist store. It had tarantulalooking legs and a dog’s personality—it was not afraid of people or places, and could climb anything. We named him “O.B.” after the town we were in (Orange Beach). The travel cage we had brought from home was much too small for the big attitude of O.B., so Grandpa decided Brook should make a new cage–out of an old box, a garbage bag and beach sand with some seashells. After a little finessing, we had a “crabitat.” I looked at it, dubiously. There was no way that crab would stay in there – yes, the sides were tall, but there was no top. My engineer dad scoffed at my strong belief in O.B.’s climbing prowess. Add in that Brook liked the unlimited access of reaching in and playing with it without having to mess with a security system, my concerns were dismissed. They both assured me it was “fine.” So the box was tucked next to Brook for the night on 54 May/June '15 the sofa sleeper and I jokingly said, “Sleep lightly! O.B. might escape.” I was unwittingly prescient: the next morning, O.B. was gone. After some not-so-subtle “I told you so’s,” the ransacking began. We had nine people tearing the living room apart. Then the kitchen. Then the bathroom. Then the bedrooms. Side note: Rentals are not always clean: never do that close of an inspection if you don’t have to. Ever. For four days, we scoured that condo. We set out food in hopes of catching the crab eating. We spent each night with shallow breaths in hopes of hearing the nocturnal bugger scurry across the floor. We gingerly sat in chairs for fear of hearing a crunch. We secretly watched from the toilet seat, sure that water would draw him in. But no hermit crab appeared. We started to imagine the worst: a $6 crab was going to cost us $250 deposit. A lost crab plus 80 degree heat = not good. We were in a quandary of what to do, at the point of giving up. We figured there was no reason to discuss it publicly in front of staff until we had a solid escape plan. But, while enjoying a poolside drink, we overheard the kids tell a very large security guard about the lost crab… Happy Brook on ride home! from our desperate search to the “giving up” part to ending with our condo’s exact location. We sunk lower in our chairs and tipped our drinks back a little farther… then slunk upstairs to look again. Finally on day six, we really did call it quits. Grandpa decided to ease the pain by getting Brook another crab. But this time they used a tote with a lid. Lesson learned. And on day seven, we packed and made half-hearted jokes about O.B., the escape artist. We made several trips loading up the families in the cars, sad to be leaving a family member behind. Then it happened. As I did one last, lonely walk through the empty condo, there, in the middle of the living room, was a very healthy hermit crab moving along the floor! I squealed and captured him. We rejoiced, we sputtered, we crafted tall tales of what O.B. had been up to for seven days… and you can for sure bet that we clamped down the cage lid tightly for the long ride home. www.grandtraversewoman.com Grand Traverse Woman other’s Perfect Gift For M Day! 99 Introductory $ Special For the Month of May PROFESSIONAL LASER TEETH WHITENING Expires: May 31, 2015 Gift Certificates Available. • All Natural Plant and Mineral Based Product • Dental Grade Teeth Whitening - Full 60 minute treatment • Look and Feel Your Best • Immediate & Guaranteed Results • Safe and Painless • Will also Whiten Crowns/Bonding & Veneers to original color discovermassagetc.com/davinci-teeth-whitening • Average shade improvement is between 5 to 14 shades. • Individual results may vary based on current tooth shade and the level of whiteness you wish Give your mother something to smile about! 3337 W South Airport Rd Suite 3, Across from the Grand Traverse Mall 231-922-8100 fo r M Gre ot at he Gi r’s ft Da y! Are You Ready for the Beach? 4 FREE TREATMENTS WHEN YOU PURCHASE A PACKAGE OF 12 Expires: May 31, 2015 Synergie Aesthetic Massage System is a cellulite reduction and inch loss treatment. Enjoy pleasant, non-invasive and relaxing 30 minute treatments. “With Synergie I saw very noticeable improvement and smoothness to my skin; the cellulite practically disappeared. In fact, I was excited to lose a full pant size as a result of the Synergie treatments.” -K.D., Synergie Client Before After Call or visit our website for more information. 3337 W South Airport Rd, Suite 3 231-922-8100 www.discovermassagetc.com www.grandtraversewoman.com May/June '15 55 Grand Traverse Woman Karastan National Carpet Sale Artfully Designed Best Prices of the Season Every style, every color, every carpet made by Karastan, America’s premier brand, is on sale now through the end of October at Carpet Galleria. When you choose Karastan, you’re choosing the very best—and there’s never a better time to make that choice than during our National Sale. Perfect Carpet for Any Decor It all began in 1928. Karastan began to develop technology that produced more styles, more colors, more weaving techniques than any other manufacturer. Karastan continues to push the technology envelope today with “Color Point” tufting, a system that produces exquisite carpet. Experience the results with products ranging from our Metropolitan Collection with the highest level of sophistication in design, to the finest Saxony plushes including Silken Eloquence, a carpet that has evolved for over 30 years as the top product in its category, made from today’s most advanced soft fiber. Silken Eloquence S. '15 Garfield Ave, Traverse City 56 1035 May/June 231-947-4808 •www.grandtraversewoman.com carpetgalleria.com