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HEALTH TESTS 

For Your 20s, 

30s, 40s, and 50s 

KIDS & SLEEP 

Developing 

Healthy Habits 

JANUARY 2013 

Jodie 

Smith 

FITNESS CHALLENGE 

WINNER 

PLUS 

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Hair Do’s and Don’ts 

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herlife | contents 

COVER STORY 

JODIE SMITH 

Congratulations to Jodie Smith for winning the challenge, and to our 

runners-up–Jackie Reynolds, Kristy Mochel and Hadley Wright–for all 

their hard work. 

28 

Waiting to run health tests 

only when problems arise may 

mean the damage is already 

done. So what tests are we 

talking about and when should 

you take them? 

20 

Whether it is pleas to stay up 

later, requests for sips of water 

or tales of a nasty nightmare, 

some kids just can’t seem to 

go to bed. Read about how to 

establish healthy sleep 

habits for kids. 

68 

We know that not all ladies like 

the same type of trips so we 

found a handful of ladies-only 

getaways that will appeal to 

everyone, from inspirational 

weekend-long excursions to 

foreign explorations. 

100 

contents 

14 Welcome 

18 Favorites 

20 Health 

22 Spotlight 

26 Fitness 

28 Inspirations 

34 Beauty 

36 Cravings 

40 Culinary 

42 Recipes 

44 Wine 

48 Spotlight 

52 Book Club 

54 Scene and Be Seen 

64 Spotlight 

68 Mother’s Perspective 

72 Green Living 

74 Fine Things 

76 Spotlight 

80 Trendsetter 

86 Working Women 

88 Finance 

90 Home 

92 Spotlight 

96 Real Estate 

100 Travel 

102 Pets 

104 Just Sayin' 

106 Tie the Knot 

110 Calendar 

112 Star Journeys 



herlife | welcome 

CRYING FOR JOY 

Have an inspirational 

woman in your life? 

If you or someone you know 

has a great story that you think 

should be told, please email us at 

kellie@herlifemagazine.com! 

Like HERLIFE Magazine on 

Facebook to stay current on great 

discounts, special events and 

behind-the-scenes details: 

facebook.com/herlifemagazine 

Help us be green! Please 

share the love and recycle 

when you are done 

reading this issue! 

Imust admit that I’m a very emotional person. I always have been and I don’t see that changing 

anytime soon in the future. I am also very terrible at hiding my feelings—my face shows everything 

regardless of how hard I try not to let it. But on the upside, I get so giddy over every accomplishment 

Peyton or Griffin make that I know they really enjoy that part—or so I thought until Peyton 

wanted to have a serious conversation with me. 

She shared, “Mom, I have something to tell you but I know it’s going to make you cry for joy, 

so I’m not sure if I should tell you.” I replied, “Sweetie, you can tell me anything. When I cry, it’s 

because I’m so proud of you because you are so special and you are always doing things that 

make me realize how big you’re getting.” She said, “I know, like turning seven and learning to tie 

my shoes and reading you books. But Mom, this is really going to make you cry because I am really 

getting bigger.” By this point, my heart is racing over what she is going to say. Does she have 

a crush on Justin Bieber or One Direction? Is she going to ask me to wear dangly earrings? She 

recently bought a diary with her own birthday money and said 

nobody can read her thoughts and locks it up! (She saw it on 

a TV episode!) I braced myself and said, “Peeps, tell me…” 

and she responded, “Remember when I lost my first tooth and 

how you cried because I was growing up?” I exhaled because 

I liked where this was going. “Yes, of course I remember,” I 

replied. “Well Mom, I have a whole mouth full of wiggly teeth. 

See, this one is really wiggly, and this one and this one…” and 

on it went. I burst out laughing and she quickly joined me. 

Whew! 

While I might be a tad overly emotional, I realize how 

quickly life zips by and there is nothing any of us can do to 

slow it down. So, with each milestone, I tend to cry for joy. I 

know my kids will be leaving for college in a blink of an eye, 

and I want to freeze and cherish every moment I have with 

them. Just having these little people in my life does sometimes 

(okay, more than sometimes) make me cry for joy. 

Happy New Year! 

Lindsay Aydelotte 



® 

STAFF AND CONTACTS 

Publisher 


lindsay@herlifemagazine.com 

913-402-6994 

Associate Publisher 

Kellie Paxton 

913-402-6994 

Executive Account Manager 

Brandy Barrish 

brandy@herlifemagazine.com 

816-223-9395 

Account Executive 

Michelle Carder 

michelle@herlifemagazine.com 

816-516-9888 

Editor 

Candi Smith 

913-402-6994 

Creative Director 

Ashleigh Thomson 

ashleigh@herlifemagazine.com 

Design and Production 

Todd Grantham 

todd@herlifemagazine.com 

Art Director 

Elana Bell 

elana@herlifemagazine.com 

Contributing Authors 

Chandra Blackwell, Beth Blair, Ann E. Butenas, Lisa Taranto Butler, 

SeÁnan Forbes, Kathleen M. Krueger, Natasha Logan, Jenny Matthews, 

Charity Ohlund, Linda R. Price, Bre Roach, John Sandbach, 

Hallie Sawyer, Candi Smith, Catie Watson, VeryCulinary.com 

Contributing Photographers 

Michelle Carder, Alea Lovely, Adrienne Maples, 

Heather Morrow, NightlifeKC.com, Kellie Paxton, 

Ron Berg Photography and Ward Parkway Center, 

Tracy Routh Photography, Brooke Vandever, VeryCulinary.com, 

WinesofPortugal.info 

To contact HERLIFE® Magazine: 

7275 West 162nd Street, Suite #107 

Overland Park, KS 66085 

Phone: 913-402-6994 / Fax: 1-866-827-6851 

For Advertising call 913-402-6994 

© 2013 by HERLIFE® Magazine. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this 

publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission 

be obtained in writing. 

HERLIFE® Magazine is owned by HERLIFE Magazine, LLC and is a free publication 

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herlife | favorites 

I look forward to getting married and spending time 

with my brand-new niece or nephew! 

I want my personal and professional life to be in 

balance and to have fun along the way! 

Brandy Barrish 

Executive Account Manager 


Publisher 

I’m going to accomplish 

my half-marathon goal. I 

am determined! 

Kellie Paxton 

Assistant Publisher 

STAFF PICKS 

There is a season for everything, 

and many people choose the month 

of January each year as their kickoff 

date for growth and change. 

Sometimes, gaining awareness for 

things we need in our lives is more 

precious than anything that can be 

bought or sold. The staff at 

HERLIFE shares our goals for the 

New Year, and hopes that you’ll 

share yours with us! 

To “unplug” myself while 

I’m at home and enjoy the 

“little things.” While I love 

my iPhone, it can be a huge 

distraction! 

Ashleigh Thomson 

Creative Director 

To make it to 2014 is my immediate goal. 

I want to put my fears aside and finish my memoir so I 

can change lives, including my own. 

Todd Grantham 

Design and Production 

Candi Smith 

Editor 



herlife | health 

Health Tests for your 

20s, 

30s, 

40s, 

and 

50s 

by hallie sawyer 

Let’s face it. “Let’s draw some blood today” are the last words 

we want to hear at the doctor’s office. It’s easy to ignore 

our bodies when our health is good and things are running 

smoothly. But that’s exactly when we need to be tuned in. 

Waiting to run health tests only when problems arise may 

mean the damage is already done. So what tests are we talking about 

and when should you take them? Here’s a timeline to guide you through 

the decades: 

Your 20s 

Having an annual pelvic/breast exam is especially important if 

you are sexually active. The Pap smear tests for sexually transmitted 

diseases as well as precancerous cells that lead to cervical cancer. 

The breast exam is important to start as well so that your doctor can 

feel for any abnormalities. 

Basking in the sun is part of being 20-something so taking an 

annual trip to the dermatologist can be a total drag, we know. But 

ignoring your skin’s health may keep you out of the sun permanently 

if you aren’t careful. Getting a quick mole screening will give you a 

baseline and will let you know which moles to keep an eye on. It’s 

recommended to get this done yearly. 

Yes, it sounds like something only older people do but getting 

tested for cholesterol early will help prevent heartache later, literally. 

Heart disease is the number one killer of women and early detection 

is key. If it runs in your family, it’s important to get ahead of this one 

and stay ahead. You won’t need to have this test again for five years 

if results come back normal. 

Your 30s 

This may be the time when you are settled down and ready to 

have kids. However, improper thyroid function can throw a wrench in 

your efforts to conceive. Getting it checked out early, especially if you 

are having problems starting your family, will get you some answers 

sooner rather than later. 

Checking the calculation of your body fat or Body Mass Index 

(BMI) isn’t about vanity—it’s about maintaining a proper balance. 

Many of us have no idea where our bodies fall on the healthy scale 

and this is a good test to find out. You may be happy with your weight 

but if you still have a high amount of body fat for your frame, then you 

are setting yourself up for health issues later. Getting this number into 

a healthy range is more important than weighing what you did in high 

school. 

Getting an eye exam, even though you have good vision, is an 

important part of checking on the health of your eyes. Eye conditions 

like glaucoma usually have no symptoms so having an exam every 

three to five years is important. 


Your 40s 

Having your blood sugar checked may 

sound like a strange test but it’s necessary 

to see how your body metabolizes sugar and 

handles your body’s resistance to insulin. 

If diabetes runs in your family or you are 

slightly overweight, it is recommended to test 

earlier. Problems with insulin, regardless of 

the risk of diabetes, can lead to heart disease, 

the leading cause of death in women. 

The American Cancer Society recommends 

that mammogram testing start as 

women turn 40 but the U.S. Preventative 

Services Task Forces says it should be done 

every couple of years starting at age 50. The 

mammogram helps detect cancer cells that 

the yearly breast exam cannot detect. It can’t 

prevent cancer but testing can hopefully 

catch it early before it spreads. 

Your 50s and beyond 

When Katie Couric’s husband died of 

colon cancer, she made it her mission to 

educate the public about having a colonoscopy 

test. He was an athletic and vibrant 

man in the middle of his life but what he had 

dismissed as fatigue from a stressful job 

was killing him. He died at the age of 42 of 

a disease that is 90 percent curable. Katie 

had her colonoscopy performed live on TV. 

Again, early detection is the key. Seventy-five 

percent of those who die from the disease 

are over 50 years of age. If you are at all at 

a higher risk because of family history, it is 

highly recommended to start testing earlier. 

There has been some thought in the 

medical field that chronically low levels of 

Vitamin D are loosely linked to breast cancer 

and also leave our bones at risk for osteoporosis. 

Talk with your doctor about having 

a bone density/Vitamin D test, and ask how 

often you need this test taken. But note that 

as you age, the risks of deficiency increase. 

The takeaway from this medical advice 

is that being proactive is a much better approach 

to your health than wait-and-see. Life 

is already short; don’t help things along. ■ 

Source: health.com, webmd.com. 


herlife | spotlight 

Serotonin-Plus Weight 

Loss Program 

by ann e. butenas | photography by adrienne maples 

Are you struggling with your weight? Do you want to lose a 

few pounds or perhaps even more? Then get to the table, 

sit down, grab your fork and dig in! That’s right. Eat! If you 

want to lose weight, you have to eat. (This is sounding 

better by the moment, right?) Forget about pushing a few 

peas around the plate, digesting an almond and feigning fullness, as 

that approach is just about as practical as washing your car in the rain. 

The results are in, and if you want to lose weight, you have to literally 

step up to the plate. To get started, discover one of the best medicallysupervised 

weight loss programs available—the Serotonin-Plus Weight 

Loss Program, offered by Dr. Marilyn Richardson, MD, FACOG, boardcertified 

OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, and nationallyrecognized 

leader in women’s healthcare. 

According to Dr. Richardson, “To effectively lose weight, you 

have to renegotiate your relationship with food. It is important to eat 

in order to keep the engine running. However, you have to know what 

to eat and how to eat to keep your metabolism running at an optimum 

level.” 

Through the Serotonin-Plus Weight Loss Program, you can 

put a stop to those frustrating yo-yo diet plans and quit wasting your 

money on ineffective programs, products and strategies. You are not 

a slave to tasteless prepackaged meals or endless hours of physical 

activity. The food requirements with this program are the same as 

what your family eats. You can still enjoy cooking and dining out with 

your family. 

“We have exclusive use of this unique, patented herbal sero- 


"To effectively lose weight, you have to 

renegotiate your relationship with food. It is 

important to eat in order to keep the engine 

running. However, you have to know what to eat 

and how to eat to keep your metabolism running 

at an optimum level." 

tonin, known as the ‘feel-good’ hormone, 

which is designed to curb the carbohydrate 

cravings and works without side effects,” 

said Dr. Richardson. “This program also involves 

real food. No shakes, bars or prepackaged 

foods. We provide our clients with a 

copyrighted dietary plan and a grocery list of 

items to purchase, and we also recommend 

a gentle exercise program. We don’t expect 

people to become Olympians or bodybuilders. 

We suggest exercising three to four 

times weekly by doing yoga, Pilates, walking 

or cycling, for example.” 

Ideally, one should consume between 

four and six small meals per day which will 

serve to spike the metabolism. “The first 

two weeks of the program are designed 

specifically to stimulate your metabolism,” 

explained Dr. Richardson. 

To ensure accountability, patients have 

weekly visits with Dr. Richardson to make 

sure they are on track with their weight loss 

goals. “We understand that there are certain 

occasions in life where you will celebrate and 

eat more than you usually do, whether during 

the holidays or while you are on vacation. 

If your metabolic engine is running, during 

or after the program, you will burn it off,” 

stressed Dr. Richardson. “As such, we have a 

five-pound rule. If you pick up more than five 

pounds after you finish the program, you may 

come back for a week or two for a minimal 

fee to get back on track.” 

Prior to beginning this program, clients 

undergo a thorough physical, EKG assessment, 

a complete medical history and are 

evaluated for any existing medical problems. 

All initial consultations are free. “We also 

have our clients undergo an endocrinological 



assessment to determine if there are any underlying medical issues 

not currently known,” stated Dr. Richardson. 

By adhering to this nutritionally sound program, patients can 

expect to lose up to 40 pounds in 12 weeks. “You can lose weight 

through any type of weight loss program,” noted Dr. Richardson. 

“However, the kind of weight you lose determines if it stays off.” 

Dr. Richardson offers an analogy in this regard. “You can have a 

one pound bag of cotton balls or a one pound bag of pennies in your 

hand. You can go from fluffy to dense by how you eat and by increasing 

your metabolism. At the end, you are metabolically active. If you 

drop too much weight quickly or eat too little, you lose the calorieburning 

tissue. As such, a smaller person compared to a heavier 

individual could potentially have a higher fat content.” 

It’s interesting to note that fat burns at the rate of 10 kilocalories 

per pound per hour. When you have lean body mass, you can burn 

100 kilocalories per pound per hour. 

“Our goal is to reapportion and redefine the fat to body ratio 

limits, allowing you to lose only the fat, and so you won’t gain weight 

just because you ate an olive,” explained Dr. Richardson, whose years 

of research, education and professional experience will inspire you to 

confidently reach your weight loss goals. ■ 

For more information, visit Dr. Richardson at 12616 West 62nd 

Terrace, Suite 112, in Shawnee, Kansas, call 913-631-0277 or 

go online at hormonehairandvein.com or spdiet.com. 



herlife | fitness 

YOGA POSES 

photography by kellie paxton 

Bridge Pose: Lying on back, bend knees with feet hip 

distance apart. Press into heels, lift pelvis and engage 

glutes. Breathe. 

Downward Facing Dog: From hands and knees, curl 

toes under and lift hips high. Press heels to earth. Melt 

heart toward thighs. Breathe. 

Supine Spinal Twist: Recline and draw knees to chest. 

Open arms, palms down. Drop knees to right and gaze 

over left hand. Relax. 

Easy Seat: Sit in comfortable cross-legged position with 

palms down on knees. Lift 

through spine. With even 

breaths, stay in place for 

several minutes. 

Dr. Michael and Mrs. Kerri Nachlas opened Life Spring Med Spa & Yoga as complementary businesses that 

would offer a healthy alternative to manicures, pedicures and facials, as well as empower men and women to 

be the best that they can be in mind, body and spirit through yoga. For more information, visit Life Spring Med 

Spa & Yoga at 3601 W. 133rd in Leawood, Kansas, call them at 913.338.1522 or go online at 

lifespringmedspa.com. 


herlife | inspirations 

LOST 

40.40 

LBS! 

When Jodie Smith decides to 

make a change, she doesn’t just 

get a new haircut and call it a 

day. This woman is no chicken 

when it comes to transformation; 

mere days after her victory in the HERLIFE Fitness 

Challenge, Jodie was in the middle of a move. “We 

gutted a house,” she explained matter-of-factly. 

“After we bought it, we discovered that the sheetrock 

needed quite a bit of repair, so we tore it off–down to 

the studs–and started over.” 

But whereas most of us would consider such a project 

enough of a transformation, Jodie was only getting started. 

Smack in the middle of a major home renovation, Jodie 

decided–on a whim –to enact her own personal metamorphosis 

by participating in the HERLIFE Fitness Challenge. 

“I saw a Facebook post about it,” she said, “and I 

knew I needed to enter. The aspect of being paired with 

a personal trainer really appealed to me, and I knew 

they would keep me accountable. So before I could 

talk myself out of it, I took the leap and went for it.” 

Like all of the contestants in the HERLIFE Fitness 

Challenge, Jodie wasn’t focused on coaxing a certain 

number out of her bathroom scale, but rather on makby 

chandra blackwell | 

photography by heather 

morrow of hocus focus | 

hair styling by ezoza khashimova 

of double take salon and day spa 

| makeup by jolie carrillo-allen 

of jolie artistry | 

wardrobe provided by dk 

darling boutique 


Jodie Smith 

FITNESS CHALLENGE WINNER 

ing a real and lasting change in several aspects of her life. She shared, “My 

focus is to just become the best Jodie I can be. My husband, Darren, and I 

live near two beautiful lakes, and I want to be able to take off on a Saturday 

morning bike ride with him! He has always worked out, and is very excited 

that going to the gym is something we can do together now.” 

Jodie worked with trainer Cindi Smith (no relation but coincidentally, 

they went to high school together) of Total Body Fitness. Oops…did we say 

trainer? That’s not quite the term Jodie used. “Have you met my stalker, 

Cindi?” she asked, laughing. All jokes aside, Jodie believes that working 

with Cindi was crucial to her success. “I am amazed by the changes to 

my body that Total Body Fitness was able to make happen in such a short 

amount of time,” she said. “Cindi could really see what was working and 

what wasn’t—and her knowledge of not just muscle and strength, but of 

metabolism and the body as a whole, was just amazing.” 

Jodie continued “Also, she pushed me to go beyond what I thought I 

was capable of…like running intervals on a treadmill! Previously, I was afraid 

of the treadmill–I thought I’d end up becoming the victim of a viral YouTube 

video–but now I’m running a couple of miles on the treadmill and loving it!” 

Cindi was equally awed by Jodie’s determination and hard work. “Her 

positive attitude through the entire 12-week process was impressive! She 

NEVER once complained about the intense training or the very tough meal 

plan that she just so happened to maintain at 100 percent.” Cindi went on 

to explain what she called the “tripod” fitness approach espoused by Total 

Body Fitness: increasing the metabolism and understanding the role it 

plays in changing your body; increasing lean body mass through strength 

training to produce overall compositional change; and expending energy 

through cardiovascular exercise. 

Cindi shared, “Our focus with every client is always to start by educating 

on the importance of nutrition and creating an individual and specific 

plan to help them reach their goals. Our concepts and methods are just as 

effective in a 44-year-old as they are in a 20-year-old. Our core belief is that 

anyone can do it with accountability and having a plan to follow. Preparation 

equals success!” 

The most challenging part of that plan for Jodie was meal preparation. 

“I had to pack up all my meals for the day and have them with me at all 

times,” she said. “I work in a restaurant–where it’s way too easy to veer 

away from a mindful, healthy diet–so in order to stay on track, I would load 

up a cooler in the morning with chicken or fish, vegetables, and protein 

powder before heading out the door.” However, thanks to her husband’s 

unwavering support (“He totally helped me out the door in the morning by 

packing food and making breakfast,” she said), Jodie prevailed! 

Now that both of her major transformations (new house and new-andimproved 

self) are nearly complete, Jodie is looking forward to a fantastic 

2013! “I can see lots of Saturday morning spins around the lake, hitting the 

gym with my husband five days a week and a lot more clothes shopping— 

my husband might need a second job!” 

Congratulations, Jodie! ■ 



Contestant: Kristy Mochel 

Trainer: Jason Schlabach of StrengthTime 

Why she participated: “I knew that I needed to lose weight 

and get in better shape. I was also pre-diabetic.” 

Her road to better health: Kristy joined forces with 

trainer Jason Schlabach and began a fitness plan that involved 

slow-movement strength training, an innovative approach to health 

that offers the benefits of exercise while reducing the injury risks 

associated with recreational sports. The program involves two 

30-minute workouts per week which, according to Jason, “provide 

all the exercise the body needs for optimal adaptations to occur.” 

Why it worked: “I was committed to Jason and his 

workout strategy. He not only taught me what to do, but why to 

do it. I kept myself accountable by spreading the word of being 

involved in the challenge. Also, I taped a ‘before’ picture of me on 

my bathroom mirror, and looked at it every day. I will never go back 

there!” 

How she feels now: “I look and feel better than I have in 

years—I lost a total of 38 pounds and I am no longer 

pre-diabetic! Jason gave me the tools that I needed to 

succeed. I didn’t win the challenge, but I won—trust me!” 

What’s in store for Kristy in 2013: “I will continue 

working out with Jason, and we have set another three-month 

goal. I have a renewed confidence in myself and am starting a 

campaign to help others who may be struggling with weight 

issues. I’m excited to see what 2013 holds for me!” 

LOST 

28.80 

LBS! 

BEFORE 


LOST 

7.20 LBS! 

BEFORE 

Contestant: Jackie Reynolds 

Trainer: Justin Hough of Impact Fitness 

Why she participated: “I needed the extra push to take 

charge of my health and my life, and the challenge gave me that 

opportunity to do something for me.” 

Her biggest challenge: “What was hardest for me was 

making time for my workouts—which is probably everyone’s biggest 

challenge. I was studying for my CPA exam. It was difficult to exercise 

when I needed to study, and plan and cook healthy foods, when I just 

needed something fast. But it’s all about time management.” 

Why it was worth it: “I felt so great with clean food going into 

my body and an established exercise routine. Food really is your 

‘fuel’ so if you ‘fill up’ with bad food, you can’t perform as well. I was 

amazed to find out just how far I can push my body and that it can 

do those things!” 

How she stayed motivated: “I just kept thinking of the end 

result and the ‘after’ picture! I knew I was going to Cabo in 

December, so I just kept thinking about that swimsuit!” 

How she feels now: “I would say my ‘measurements’ are being 

measured more by how much clothes fit and my clothing size, and 

how I feel in general. I really just wanted to feel good about myself— 

and I’ve met that goal!” 

What’s in store for Jackie in 2013: “Unlike my typical 

New Year’s resolutions, I'm very motivated to make this MY year. No 

more excuses for not taking care of myself!” 



Contestant: Hadley Wright 

Trainer: Justin Howell of Infinite Fitness 

Why she participated: “I was unhappy with my body and 

wanted to change it but I wasn’t completely sure where to start. I 

knew this would be a great opportunity to learn how to change not 

only my body but also my lifestyle.” 

Her road to better health: Hadley worked with trainer 

Justin Howell. “It became more than a trainer-client relationship—I 

really feel like we became friends through the process. On top of 

gaining a friend, I learned so much about nutrition. It’s all about 

what you eat and when you eat it. I also learned a lot about the 

different muscle groups. I always assumed that a muscle was a 

muscle, but that’s incorrect. We would work different groups depending 

on the day, allowing them time to rest—and I drank plenty 

of fluids to keep them hydrated.” 

Her big surprise: “During the challenge, I learned that I was 

pregnant! Now that I’m done with my first trimester and I’m able to 

really get back in the gym, I’m picking up where we left off.” 

Hadley, new and improved: “The best part for me has 

been seeing how strong I really am. I can do push-ups now 

which, prior to the challenge, is something that I would never have 

thought that I would be able to do! I also did my first 5K with Justin, 

which was so exciting!” 

What’s in store for Hadley in 2013: “2013 is going to 

be different because I now know what to do. I know 

exercises that I can do, I know the right foods to eat and 

I know to drink water!” 

LOST 

21.70 

LBS! 

BEFORE 



herlife | beauty 

Hair Do’s 

and 

Don’ts 

by beth blair 

Now that the New Year has officially kicked off, why not 

add one more resolution to your list—have great hair this 

year. Wondering where to start? We turned to the experts 

for their insight and advice on perfecting the perfect locks 

this year. It turns out that there are a lot of do’s and don’ts 

that we all can benefit from, and you might be surprised to find there 

are even foods that can guarantee great hair. 

Do trust the experts 

To start, Rolando Cevallos of Paris Salon in St. James, New York, 

says to go easy on products and trust the experts. “Overuse of hair 

products can result in lifeless and dull hair and can cause more damage 

than good. A good stylist who cuts and colors your hair is in tune 

with your ‘head’ and is the best professional to give recommendations 

for shampoos, gels, hair spray, conditioners and the best brush to use 

on your hair. Many women make the mistake of buying hair products 

that can literally strip color or dry the ends out. Overuse creates more 

damage so remember to listen carefully to how to use products and 

which ones to buy from your stylist and not a television commercial.” 

Celebrity hairstylist Rochelle Mosley concurs about overuse of 

products. She also suggests minimizing your shampooing to only a 

few times a week. “Shampooing every day is completely unnecessary 

and can dry out your hair,” she says. 

Do eat well 

Dr. Jeff Donovan, M.D., a hair loss specialist for Hair Club, 

explains that the nutrients you ingest will be reflected in your hair. For 

example, there are benefits to eating dark green vegetables. Dr. Donovan 

explains, “Spinach and broccoli help to produce sebum, an oily 

substance secreted by glands attached to the hair follicle. Sebum conditions 

and moisturizes hair, helping to prevent it from drying out.” He 

also says low-fat dairy products are ideal for increasing calcium intake 

which in turn helps repair worn-out and damaged locks. “Legumes are 

packed with a B-vitamin called biotin. Peanuts and beans help combat 

and prevent brittle hair by increasing its elasticity and promoting thickness 

and shine,” he says. As for whole grains, “Not only do whole 

grains containing Vitamin B which, as mentioned above, promotes 

overall hair health, but they also supply the body with zinc and iron, 

two key minerals that aid in regrowth and repair of hair follicles.” 

Do pamper your locks 

If you really want to spoil your hair, Rochelle Mosley says to use 

a satin pillowcase. “Cotton pulls your hair and the moisture out,” she 

explains. “When you wake up in the morning and your hair is all over 

your head, it’s not just because you slept wild. It’s because you are 

sleeping on a cotton pillowcase. Cotton makes your hair dry out. Using 

a satin pillowcase allows you to keep your style much longer as well as 

maintain the moisture in your hair.” 

Don’t choose the wrong extensions 

Hair extensions have been a growing trend for some time but 

we discovered that not all extensions are the same. Rolando Cevallos 


shares, “Hair extensions are beautiful, giving 

wonderful confidence to a women’s overall 

image. But many women make the mistake 

in selecting hair extensions that can cause 

major damage, specifically breakage, during 

and after extensions are removed. Glue and 

weaves are not the best choices. Invest in 

real hair extensions that use micro cylinders. 

They are tiny tubes that attach the strands 

with a special technique to your own hair. 

The beauty of this type of extension is that 

they lay flat against your scalp resulting in no 

lumpiness. This type of hair extension can be 

easily colored. Remember to use a sulfatefree 

shampoo.” 

Do keep up with what’s hot 

Unlike the 1980s hair trends, today’s 

styles can be subtle. Pageant recruiter and 

brand strategist Shekinah Moneé says hair 

trends this year will be “big loose curls, high 

buns, ponytails and lots of color.” But that’s 

not all. Jeffrey Mayo, Eufora International 

Global Educator and Stylist, says the perfect 

side part is another hot 2013 trend but this 

look can also enhance our attractiveness. 

Mayo reveals, “Everyone has a strong side 

of their face and a weak side of their face. 

To find it, hold up a piece of printer paper to 

one side of the face. Notice one side droops 

slightly more than the other. The heavier side 

of the side part should always go against the 

weaker side of the face. Once the side is chosen, 

to make a perfect side part, try combing 

from the outside corner of the eye in the front, 

to the middle center in the back to ensure 

symmetry in the hairstyle.” 

Thanks to our experts, good hair may be 

one resolution that’s going to be pretty easy 

to accomplish this year. ■ 

Sources: parissalonny.com, 

shekinahmoneé.com, 

eufora.net, 

askrochellemosley.com and 

hairclub.com. 


herlife | cravings 

Paulo and Bill 

So here we are in January—the 

month when we renew our gym 

memberships and wonder if our 

skinny jeans may fit once more 

by spring. And yet, here we are, 

talking about food again. 

But wait, I have good news. This month 

I visited Paulo and Bill, arguably one of the 

best locally-owned restaurants on the West 

side. Not only does chef Dan Drake offer 

a “Lite Entrées” section among the classic 

Italian favorites, he also features a huge 

selection of delicious fresh seafood such as 

Lemon Tilapia with wild rice, spinach and 

Swiss chard in a lemon pan jus. Rest assured, 

you can easily maintain your goals and 

eat a mouthwatering meal with Chef Drake’s 

menu in hand. (Then again, there’s also the 

Phyllo Brownie. More on that later). 

Paulo and Bill is owned by Jim and 

Cathy Marks. If you’ve been reading my reviews 

for some time, you know that I can be 

a little skittish (or snobbish) when it comes 

to dining outside my little five-mile radius in 

Northeast Johnson County. 

When I arrived, I was greeted by two 

heavy wooden doors with gorgeous diamond-shaped, 

inlaid, stained glass windows. 

The late afternoon sun was filtering the 

colors onto the floor inside the waiting area. 

Heavy wooden beams, an open kitchen with 

brick oven, colorful curved walls and cozy 

booths surround the impressive dining room. 

Whatever notions I had about a suburban, 

cookie-cutter restaurant experience were 

quickly banished. 

I joined my dining partner who had already 

arrived and been seated next to a giant 

window overlooking the pretty stone patio. To 

make things easier, and to avoid food envy, 

we agreed to share everything and started 

with the Crab and Pacific Sea Bass. 

The sea bass was pan-seared and 

served with a blue crab and crispy potato 

salad, fresh mixed vegetables and olive oil 

gorgonzola vinaigrette. After the first bite of 

36 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 

by charity ohlund | photgraphy by brooke vandever - brookevandever.com

herlife | cravings 

that succulent sea bass, I faked grace and hospitality by cutting the fish in 

half so my friend could reach it more easily. But somehow, my piece turned 

out just a little bit larger. Oops. 

As our Grilled Beef Tenderloin was hitting the table, Chef Drake stopped 

by for a chat. He has been the executive chef at Paulo and Bill since 2003. 

After graduating from the prestigious Culinary Institute of America in Hyde 

Park, New York, Chef Drake spent three years at Antonio’s in Colorado 

Springs where he learned some of the old-world Italian style cooking techniques 

he still utilizes today. Although Paulo and Bill is known as an Italian 

restaurant, I found the menu to be equal parts Italian and American Bistro. 

Returning to Kansas City, Chef Drake became an executive chef with 

PB&J Restaurants where he met Jim and the two joined forces when Jim 

purchased Paulo and Bill. Together they have built a robust business that 

altogether seems to encompass mom-and-pop hospitality, culinary prowess 

and one of the busiest private catering operations in the city. 

But about that beef tenderloin. It was served with whipped potatoes 

and sautéed sugar snap peas with red peppers and finished with a brandied 

mushroom sauce. The tenderloin melted in our mouths and the sauce was 

rich without being heavy. 

Soon we found ourselves the lucky recipients of one of Chef Drake’s 

famed “Chef’s Trio” dishes. Served on a dramatic, long white plate, the Chef’s 

Trio is available during dinner Monday through Thursday, and typically features 

one beef and two seafood items of the chef’s choosing. Ours included 

Beef Tenderloin (this time with a Chianti demi glaze), Red Chili Shrimp and 

Grilled Mahi with gold pepper jasmine rice and jalapeño lobster cream sauce. 

Now, there is a dessert at Paulo and Bill that I must share with you, and 

it goes by the aforementioned name of Phyllo Brownie. “The Phyllo Brownie 

is, by far, our most popular dessert,” shared Chef Drake. “It’s two stacked 

chocolate brownies with chocolate chip cookie dough between them. We 

wrap that in phyllo, bake it in the oven, then top it with vanilla ice cream and 

drizzle it with chocolate and caramel sauce.” I know. I wanted to slap him, 

too. 

But then I figured that I had worked hard at being good all year and that 

Santa was surely still sleeping after his big trip. In fact, I think January is 

actually the perfect time to be naughty. My advice? Go to Paulo and Bill 

immediately and renew that gym membership in February. ■ 

For more information, visit Paulo and Bill at 16501 Midland Drive in 

Shawnee, Kansas, call them at 913-962-9900 

or visit them online at pauloandbill.com. Their 

hours are Monday–Friday, 11:00am–9:00pm; 

Saturday, 12:00pm–10:00pm; and, Sunday, 

10:00am–9:00pm (with brunch from 10:00am– 

2:00pm). 

A self-professed foodie whose kitchen essentials include bacon, blue cheese, a French press and Sriracha, Charity 

Ohlund can be found eating her way through Kansas City's culinary scene with her chef husband. Her food and 

restaurant writing has been published in Reader's Digest and KC Magazine, and on FrothyGirlz.com and Yahoo. 

com. After graduating from the University of Kansas with a journalism degree, Charity worked for Fairmont Hotels & 

Resorts in Scottsdale and Chicago before moving to Kansas City in 2006. When she isn't cooking, eating or chasing 

after her two young sons, Charity is busy running Maddy Nash, the personalized clutch purse company she founded 

last year. Maddy Nash bags can be found at Clique Boutique, TallulahBelle's and at MaddyNash.com. 

photo provided by heather morrow of hocus focus photography 



herlife | culinary 

Facts on Fats and Cooking Oils 

by natasha logan 

How many of you remember being in your grandmother’s 

kitchen, watching her dip into her trusty can of Crisco 

or seasoning her dishes from a jar of bacon drippings? 

Grandma knew that our bodies required fat to function. 

In addition to carbohydrates and protein, fats 

complete the triad of major nutrients our bodies need. Our brains are 

comprised mostly of fat which makes up its cell membranes. Fats and 

oils stabilize blood sugar levels and provide raw materials for making 

hormones, so we should incorporate fats into our daily diet. Fats and 

oils work the same in our body, but fats are solid at room temperature 

while oils are liquid. 

Triglycerides are the chemical form of fats in food and our body. 

Think of fats as a building and triglycerides as the bricks that give it 

shape. Every “brick” contains three fatty acids: saturated, monounsaturated 

and polyunsaturated (the “tri”), and one glycerol molecule (the 

“glyceride”). Each type of fat has a combination of fatty acids that comprise 

its “bricks.” For instance, olive oils have more monounsaturated 

fatty acids than saturated or polyunsaturated fatty acids, making them a 

monounsaturated fat. 

Saturated fats are the most chemically stable, which allow them a 

longer shelf life and the ability to withstand high cooking temperatures. 

Found primarily in animal fats and tropical oils, some examples of animal 

fats are butter, cream and tallow. However, two of the most highly saturated 

fats–coconut oil and palm kernel oil–come from vegetable sources. 

Interestingly, the fatty acid composition of animal fat can vary depending 

on the animal’s diet. 

When choosing a fat for cooking, monounsaturated fats are hearthealthy 

because they maintain “good” HDL cholesterol levels while 

lowering “bad” LDL cholesterol levels. They are best used for light cooking, 

or raw in salad dressings and sauces. Oils that are predominantly 

monounsaturated include avocado, peanut, sesame, lard and duck fat. 

Polyunsaturated fatty acids are more likely to become rancid than 

saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids, especially after exposure 

to oxygen, light or heat. Oils that are predominately polyunsaturated 

include walnut, grapeseed, soy, corn and fish oils. They are best used 

in their raw form, should never be kept beyond their expiration date, 

should be used at low temperatures and kept refrigerated in dark 

bottles. 

The worst kind of fats are trans fatty acids, which are chemically 

altered, man-made fats found in partially hydrogenated oils. The 

hydrogenation process injects hydrogen into vegetable fats under high 

heat and pressure, resulting in the saturation of what was previously 

an unsaturated fat, and creating a chemical configuration not found in 

nature. This is done to extend the shelf life of vegetable oils. Trans fats 

lower HDL cholesterol and raise LDL cholesterol levels, increasing the 

risk of coronary heart disease. 

Determine if the dish you’re preparing calls for unrefined or refined 

oil. Unrefined oils are salad oils, and are best used in marinades, sauces 

and salad dressings. Since they should not be used at high temperatures, 

they are best for light sautéing and low heat baking. Unrefined oils 

are processed by cold-pressed and expeller-pressed methods which 

provide the true bouquet of whatever plant was the oil’s original home. 

Because of this, unrefined oils can dominate a dish or baked good, and 

are often used as flavoring agents. 

Refined oils are extracted from clean oilseed or oil cakes by solvent 

extraction for further refining to produce clear oil free from foreign mat- 


ter. If the oil is bland and pale, it has been fully refined, bleached and 

deodorized. Refined oils have little flavor and aroma, and work well in 

delicately flavored dishes. They are best for baking, sautéing, stir-frying 

and oven cooking. For all baking, grease your baking sheets and pans 

with refined oils. 

All oils are sensitive to heat, light and exposure to oxygen. Oil that 

is rancid will have an unpleasant aroma and acrid taste, and its nutrients 

will be diminished. It’s best to store oils in the fridge. Refined oils high 

in monounsaturated fats keep up to a year if refrigerated, while those 

high in polyunsaturated fats keep about six months. And if you follow 

your grandmother’s time-honored recipe which calls for bacon fat, store 

it in the fridge and use within a few days. Or, freeze tablespoon-sized 

portions in a muffin tin, pop them out and store in an airtight freezer bag 

to use later. 

For baking, coconut, palm, canola and high oleic safflower and 

sunflower oils work best. For oils that can handle heat and are ideal for 

frying, try avocado, peanut, palm and sesame. When it comes to sautéing, 

consider avocado, canola, coconut, grapeseed, olive, sesame and 

high oleic safflower and sunflower oils. And for dressings, dipping and 

marinades, you’ll find terrific flavor in flax, olive, peanut, toasted sesame 

or walnut oils. ■ 

Sources: wholefoodsmarket.com, 

missvickie.com. 


herlife | recipes 

Barbecue Hummus 

recipes and photography by veryculinary.com 

Makes about 5 cups 

Prep time: 5 minutes 

Ingredients: 

2 (15 ounce) cans chickpeas, drained 

and rinsed (reserve ½ cup liquid) 

3 whole garlic cloves 

¼ cup tahini 

¼ cup lemon juice 

1 ½ teaspoons paprika 

4 Tablespoons barbecue sauce 

1 teaspoon Tabasco 

1 Tablespoon white wine vinegar 

1 ½ teaspoons salt 

Directions: 

Put all the ingredients, including the reserved chickpea liquid, in a food 

processor. Purée until smooth and creamy. Serve with pita chips, crackers 

or veggies. ■ 


Chunky Clam Chowder 

Serves 4-6 

Prep time: 20 minutes 

Cook time: 25 minutes 

Ingredients: 

2 cans whole clams, drained, reserving 

the juice in another bowl 

2 Tablespoons unsalted butter 

1 yellow onion, finely chopped 

½ cup diced salt pork 

2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour 

2 large or 3 medium potatoes, diced 

3 cups whole milk or half-and-half 

2 bay leaves 

White pepper to taste 

Chowder crackers for garnish 

Directions: 

1. In a large pot, over medium heat, melt the butter. Add onions and sauté until soft, 

about 3-5 minutes. 

2. Add the salt pork and stir until it is cooked through, about 2 minutes longer. Add 

the flour and stir for another 2 minutes. 

3. Stir in the clam juice, potatoes, milk and bay leaves. Raise the heat to mediumhigh 

and bring to a simmer, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot. 

4. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes. 

5. Discard the bay leaves and season with pepper. Add the clams and cook for 1 

minute longer to warm them through. 

6. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with chowder crackers. ■ 


herlife | wine 

Portuguese Wine and Food 

by seánan forbes | photography by winesofportugal.info 

When the majority of people think of Portugal and wine, 

they navigate directly to the port of fortified wine. Steer 

better. Keep your prow aimed toward Portugal, but 

cast a net to encompass the country’s natural, unfortified 

wines. You’ll be rewarded with bounty—bottles 

fit for the finest menu, indulging yourself, entertaining friends or just 

because. Cast doubts overboard. This is adventure worth venturing. 

It makes sense. You’ve heard that a country’s wine matches its 

cuisine. Imagine Portugal’s fresh fish, colorful salads and hearty meats. 

Grilled sardines, seafood salads, black-eyed peas with capers, garlic 

and chili, mixed salads with tomatoes and creamy dressings, soups 

thick with dark greens, beef braised in red wine with vegetables and 

smoky paprika, saffron-bright shrimp, marinated pork ribs, flan, rice 

pudding and those gorgeous little egg tarts called natas. That should 

whet your appetite. Now imagine wines to match those meals and 

quench your thirst. 

To the eye, Vinho Verde isn’t green—it’s white. It’s green only in 

the sense of being young, and that’s how it should be enjoyed. Don’t 

plan to store this wine. Vinho Verde is made for immediate gratification. 

These aren’t boring wines. Fairly high in alcohol, they tend to 

be creamy and some are almost buttery. When Vinho Verde’s in your 

mouth, you’ll feel a hint of fizz. This party wine is an amenable pour. It’s 

a perfect counterpoint to fatty foods, be they braises or cheeses. Keep 

Portugal in mind when you’re bringing home Asian takeout or opening 

a southeast Asian cookbook. Vinho Verde likes spices, and it’s especially 

fond of Thai. Top Vinho Verdes come from Dão and Lisboa. 

Vera 2011 is a fun introduction to Vinho Verde—as good for a 

party as a picnic (even one you have indoors). Adega Cooperativa 

Regional de Monção’s Vinho Verdes can be captivatingly complex. Try 

the Trajarinho (dry, brisk and bright) or the Muralhas de Monção (with 

notes of citrus, apple, melon and crisp straw). Also elegant, J. M. Fonseca 

Twin Vines’ name honors twin girls who were born in 2007. Young 

as they are, these girls have a destiny. They’ll be the eighth generation 

of wine-makers on the family-owned vineyard. If you can’t think of a 

toast, drink to this female future of Portuguese wine. 

It’s enough to make you blush with grapy delight. Speaking of 

blushing, rosé is in style across America. In Portugal, it’s never been 

out—and why should it? Portuguese rosés are crisp, bright and 

refreshingly fruity, but don’t presume they’ll be sugary sweet. Some 

walk the dry side, but all hold a clear memory of fruit. Aphros’s grapes 

are certified biodynamic. Labor-intensive farming produces a light, 

dusky rosé with an elegant structure. 2011 Aphros Vinhão Rosé Vinho 

Verde is a good one to consider. 

Although this is an all-season wine, its acidity pairs well with an 

autumnal briskness. Watch the leaves turn, sip this wine and you’ll 

know you’re one of the luckiest women on the earth. If you’re hungry, 

contemplate salads, light roasted vegetables and quiet conversation 

with a cherished friend. 

Reds roam the range from slender to the robust. Light and juicy, 

coastal reds go well with fatty fish and meats. Set them beside a 

charcuterie platter and make your guests happy. If shoreside wines are 

slim, those from Alentejo, the Douro and the Tejo are plump and satiny. 

Low in tannin, these wines like big foods such as beef, pork, game, 

rich-sauced meats, pasta and roasted lamb. 

For robust reds, look to the Douro Valley. Don’t come here for a 

light relationship. These wines are intense, tannic and complicated. 

Classics in the making, they age well. Try them with stews or standout 

goat’s milk cheeses. 

Altitude, soil and knowledge combine to make Dão’s reds elegant. 

The Castelão grape, found in the wines of Palmela, could reform your 

notion of “classic.” With notes of dark forest fruit, spice and ancient 

gardens, Balcalhôa Barerdo Reserva 2007 is a journey in a bottle. 

Balcalhôa is a house to trust. Find any of their wines and you’re in for 

a delectable education in Portuguese tradition. The Herdade do Rocim 

has a winning way with reds. Find a few different bottles, invite friends 

over for the evening, learn what Portugal means by “red” and segue 

into dinner. 

It’s imperative to acknowledge Portugal’s sparklers. A widespread 

family of grapes make Portugal’s bubbly. Expect Baga, Touriga Nacional, 

Maria Gomes, Arinto, Bical, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. They go 

well with fish, salads and vegetables, and their price makes them an 

irresistible alternative to champagne and prosecco when celebrations 

are in order and there’s always something to celebrate, even if it’s only 

the discovery of a new Old World land of wine. ■ 

Sources: veravinhoverde.com, adegademoncao.pt, 

aphros-wine.com, 

herdadedorocim.com/hr.php, 

jmftwinvines.com/about-twin-vines-wine.html 

and bacalhoa.com. 







illumé 

medical spa 

by kathleen m. krueger | photography by adrienne maples 

Put two highly experienced registered nurses 

(RNs) together in a spa setting, and add 

their commitment to providing only the most 

effective aesthetic treatments available, and 

what do you get? A med spa that provides 

services which really work! Add affordable prices for these 

service and you have Illumé Medical Spa! 

Glen Fansler and Lenae Cammisano opened Illumé 

Medical Spa in November 2011. Both experienced critical 

care RNs, Glen worked at St. Luke’s Hospital and 

Lenae worked at the Kansas University Medical Center. 

Although they enjoyed caring for patients in the hospital 

setting, they discovered another nursing option that appealed 

to them both when they began working in a spa 

as injection nurses. 

Both Glen and Lenae found the opportunity to 

provide aesthetic services for individuals an uplifting 

experience. They are now injection trainers who train 

physicians, nurse practitioners and registered nurses on 

beginning, intermediate and advanced injection techniques 

for BOTOX®, Dysport® and dermal fillers 

on a national level. They are experts in their field. 

As medical professionals, Lenae and Glen found 

the aesthetician setting a bit limiting; they knew they 

could provide a more comprehensive service to clients if 

they could operate in a medically-based setting. These 

two friends with a shared profession began to also share 

a dream. “Lenae and I are passionate about making 

people feel better about themselves,” said Glen. “We 

wanted to open a spa where we could be involved in 

every aspect of our clients’ experience.” 

One of the amazing claims that you’ll hear from 

Glen and Lenae is that they don’t offer any service that 

they themselves have not personally taken advantage of. 

This shows how much they believe in the services they 

offer and how selective they are in what they offer to 

their clients. Glen and Lenae don’t deny that maintaining 

beauty can be expensive, but they don’t believe the 

costs need to be prohibitive to the average individual. At 

Illumé Medical Spa, they have done their best to not only 



provide the most effective services, but also the most affordable. 

Clients always receive a free initial consultation at Illumé Med 

Spa. From this consultation, a personalized Skin Fitness Program 

will be created. Clients can see exactly what treatments are recommended 

and a timeline for those treatments. Each treatment plan is 

also created with the client’s budget in mind. 

One of the most popular treatments offered at Illumé Med Spa is 

the Madonna Eye Lift, which isn’t available at any of their local competitors. 

Lenae and Glen were looking for a solution to the sagging 

around their eyes. They had tried many different treatment options 

without satisfactory results until they tried the Madonna Eye Lift. Now 

they are sharing their discovery with their clients. 

Lenae and Glen are continually seeking out specialized solutions 

for their clients. Illumé is the only spa in the Kansas City area to offer 

a non-surgical facelift using the Ulthera device. Ultherapy is a new 

type of non-invasive procedure for the face that uses ultrasound and 

the body’s own natural healing process to lift, tone and tighten loose 

skin. This new procedure has received national attention on television 

through programs like Good Morning America, The View, 20/20 with 

Barbara Walters and The Doctors for its revolutionary approach and 

amazing results. 

Illumé offers a full range of skin care services from feel-good 

corrective facials to the celeb favorite—CO2 fractional ablative skin 

resurfacing, along with laser hair removal, brow waxing and eyelash 

tinting. Dr. Douglas Knox, a specialist in vascular disorders and hormone 

therapy, is the staff physician for Illume, and oversees all areas 

of healthcare provided. Illume also welcomes spa parties. Gather your 

friends and schedule a spa date for a Facial Party, a BOTOX® Party 

or a Peel Party. It can be a great way to get ready for your girlfriend 

getaway. 

Glen and Lenae are both mothers, each with three children. They 

are married to supportive husbands who have sacrificially offered 

themselves as the test subjects for the Med Spa’s new Men’s Skin 

Fitness Program. The male sector of the population has tended to 

enter med spas primarily for the purpose of buying gift certificates for 

the ladies in their lives. Illumé would like to change that, and encourages 

men to take advantage of their services like eyebrow grooming 

and facials that can subtly sculpt their appearance to make it the best 

it can be without any down time. 

For safe, professional and affordable beauty care, you won’t find 

a better option than Illumé Medical Spa. They offer extended evening 

hours during the middle of the week for the convenience of their 

clients, and always welcome new visitors to schedule a free consultation. 

Illumé is the only med spa in Kansas City that is owned and 

operated by two RNs, and you’ll find Lenae and Glen there every day. 

Stop in and say hello! ■ 

Illumé Medical Spa is located at 817 NE Anderson Lane in Lee's 

Summit, Missouri. You can also find them on the web at 

illumemedspa.com or call them at 816-214-5260. 



herlife | book club 

BEFORE 

I GO TO 

SLEEP 

by S.J. Watson 

review by linda r. price 

English author S. J. Watson makes her writing debut in Before I 

Go to Sleep, a thriller about Christine Lucas, a woman whose 

world exists one day at a time. As soon as middle-aged 

Christine goes to sleep, her brain erases all her memories so 

that each day is a new experience. She does not know her 

husband who sleeps in the same bed, the house where she lives or how 

she became this way. Based on the lives of amnesiac patients, this book 

of fiction rings true, but it’s scary. 

One morning, as Christine wakens, she sees a man sleeping beside 

her. Who is he? As the man wakes up, he carefully explains that 

he is her husband Ben. He slowly tells Christine that she has amnesia 

and how it occurred. Christine does not really believe him. When 

she goes into the bathroom and looks in the mirror, she is even more 

scared. Who is the middle-aged woman staring back at her? 

After her husband goes to work, a man named Dr. Nash calls 

to remind Christine of her appointment with him. Christine says she 

does not remember him, and his voice softens. “Don’t worry. I know.” 

Christine says that Ben didn’t mention her appointment, and Dr. Nash 

replies that he isn’t sure Ben knows she is seeing him. Still, Dr. Nash 

is convincing and Christine agrees to meet with him. 

Dr. Nash arrives for his appointment with Christine, and they walk 

to a nearby park. Once there, Dr. Nash says that he is a neuropsychologist 

specializing in brain disorders and that Christine has had amnesia 

for a long period of time. Dr. Nash explains the basics of amnesia to 

Christine and returns her journal to her. Christine takes the journal, 

asking “So I’ve written this?” Dr. Nash explains that he had asked her 

to keep a journal to help her maintain a thread of memory from one 

day to the next. Dr. Nash believes that memory is like a muscle that 

can be strengthened through exercise, such as keeping a journal. 

S. J. Watson worked with England’s National Health Service for 

many years. She based her novel on the lives of amnesiac patients 

including Henry Gustav Molaison and Clive Wearing. She also used 

Deborah Wearing’s book about her husband, Forever Today: A Memoir 

of Love and Amnesia, as a basis of her novel. Before I Go to Sleep 

is frightening in its detailed description of a medical condition one 

cannot imagine. 

The movie 50 First Dates, starring Drew Barrymore and Adam 

Sadler, is a romantic comedy about short-term memory loss. Though 

it is about a similar state, Before I Go to Sleep is completely different. 

It tackles the darker side of not knowing your name, your identity, 

how you became older (if your memory is stuck in your youth), who 

the people are you see every day (but don’t know and can’t remember) 

and not even recognizing the house where you live. 

Watson deftly weaves facts about amnesia into a terrifying tale 

of bewilderment, loss, unhappiness and mistrust. Christine is a sympathetic 

character for whom it is easy to have empathy. You feel for 

her and her problem of amnesia. Since she doesn’t know who she is, 

the reader doesn’t either. And as for the other characters: Why does 

Christine mistrust Ben? Is this justifiable or is it simply a result of her 

illness? Is Dr. Nash who he claims to be? Christine compels you to 

learn the truth about her illness and her life. 

Watson has written a taut, dramatic thriller portraying a woman 

struggling with her identity. The novel draws the reader into the nightmare 

of Christine’s life. The climax resolves the questions Christine 

(and the reader) had from the beginning of the story in a terrifying 

scene set in an isolated hotel room. 

Before I Go to Sleep is a haunting look into the despair and sadness 

amnesiac patients face daily. It’s a powerful story that will leave 

the reader richer for having read it. With a potent mixture of fact and 

thriller, this is one of those rare novels that will linger in your memory 

for a long time after you put it down. ■ 



herlife | scene and be seen 

Premier Plastic Surgery Patient Appreciation Event 

photography by nightlifekc.com 

Premier Plastic Surgery and Premier Skin Care Center held their annual 

Patient Appreciation Event on October 25. The evening was a chance for 

patients to mingle with the doctors, staff and product reps. Highlights of 

the evening included live BOTOX® demonstrations and presentations on 

migraine surgery, and the AquaShape liposuction system. Many patients 

went home with prizes and gifts from BOTOX® Cosmetic, SkinMedica®, claire de 

lune Lingerie Boutique Magnifique, Clarisonic® and Jane Iredale Mineral Makeup. 

Check out ppskc.com for other upcoming events and promotions. 




Double Take Salon and Spa VIP Spa Night 


We had an amazing night at the VIP Spa Night at Double Take 

Salon and Spa. A special thank you to all those who joined in all 

the activities and treatments performed. Call now to book your 

microdermabrasion, facials and chemical peels with our amazing 

aestheticians using our all-new Silhouet-Tone equipment. 

Remember our amazing buy of five services and receive the sixth 

visit FREE! Call now at 913-814-7200. 




CLOTHES MENTOR GRAND OPENING IN TIFFANY SPRINGS 

photography by michelle carder 

On October 18, 2012, the Grand Opening of Clothes Mentor in Tiffany 

Springs had fans of the store lined up in the early morning to enjoy the 

first day of shopping in the Northland’s newest women’s better brand 

clothing resale shop. The new store in the Tiffany Springs Market 

Center is the third Kansas City location, and offers designer and better 

brand women’s clothing and accessories at up to 70 percent off retail prices! 




SOFFIA VIA SALON GRAND OPENING 


On November 10, Soffia Via, Overland Park’s first full-service salon and 

blowout bar, celebrated their grand opening. Guests enjoyed music 

by DJ Scott Kaiser, original art by local Lawrence artist Paul Flinders, 

the latest pieces from Jennifer Janesko’s jewelry collection, cocktails 

and hors d’oeuvres. The opening of Soffia Via, located at 135th and 

Metcalf in the Deer Creek Marketplace, marks that Kansas City has embraced the 

new trend of concept salons emerging from coast-to-coast. The bar can be used for 

blow-dry styling, haircuts, coloring, extensions and classes for clients wanting to learn 

tricks of the trade like bobby pinning and round brushing. 




COUPLES NIGHT OUT AT TIVOL 


Trendy couples from across Kansas City came to Tivol on the Country 

Club Plaza to raise funds for the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art. 

Patrons were treated to complimentary cocktails and small bites from 

local restaurants. On display were jewelry designs by Stephen Webster, 

Carelle, Armenta and TW Steel timepieces. Keep up-to-date on all Tivol 

events by visiting their website at tivol.com. 





y ann e. butenas | photography by adrienne maples 

While they are probably the last 

company you’d want to call, when 

you do require their expert and 

unparalleled services, Santa Fe Tow 

Service should be at the top of your 

mind. This family-owned business has been providing 

the most reliable, efficient and trustworthy towing and 

hauling services in the tow, recovery and transportation 

industry for over a quarter of a century. With Santa Fe 

Tow Service, you are assured of getting a certified driver 

well-equipped with the necessary tools, experience and 

knowledge to provide you the best service, efficiently 

and safely. 

This dynamic enterprise was founded with good 

old-fashioned, salt-of-the-earth mentality by Jon Kupchin, 

who oversees it with wife Carrie. Jon grew up 

working on cars in the body shop his dad established 

in 1963–Santa Fe Body Shop–and which still operates 

today in Overland Park. As a teenager, Jon eventually 

bought the one tow truck from his dad that was 

used to tow wrecks to the body shop, and from there 

the young entrepreneur grew his towing service from 

the ground up with a simple business plan. “I hustled 

business the old-fashioned way,” he says, “knocking 

on doors and getting accounts.” 

Fast-forward 30 years and this ambitious company 

now boasts an impressive fleet 60-strong of light 

and heavy duty trucks, readily recognizable with their 

bright red paint jobs and clean-as-a-whistle presence, 

operating in Kansas, Missouri and Texas. “We will 

go anywhere you need help,” said Jon. “We are not 

limited to just the Kansas City area.” 

If you have a flat tire or simply run out of gas, 

Santa Fe Tow provides the best in roadside services 

to get you moving as quickly as possible. If you drive 

a low-profile car or heavy-duty SUV, Santa Fe Tow has 

the rollback trucks to accommodate whatever issue 

arises. 

If you need a pull across town or even across 

the country, place a quick call to Santa Fe Tow as 

their trained operators can perform any task you 

may require, no matter what the size of your vehicle. 

They are ready, willing and able to go anywhere in the 

United States to make your situation stress-free and 


uncomplicated. 

Santa Fe Tow operates out of five locations–Lenexa, Olathe and 

Overland Park in Kansas; Joplin, Missouri, and Cedar Hill, Texas–with 

dispatchers available 24/7 every single day of the year so you can be 

assured that when you need them, they will be there. 

“Our drivers are prepared for any situation,” said Carrie. “All of 

them are certified and expertly trained, too. They all are uniformed 

professionals who are committed to making this the best experience 

for our customers at a time when they are frustrated, upset or scared. 

Having your vehicle break down or be involved in an accident is a 

highly difficult situation and something for which you never plan. Anything 

we can do to help ease the anxiety and frustration associated 

with that, we will do.” 

Santa Fe Tow prides itself on its superior services and embraces 

the philosophy that they will provide the best for their customers just 

as they would for their own families. “All of our trucks are very clean 

and have state-of-the-art technologies and equipment,” said Carrie. 

“Additionally, each one is GPS-enabled so we can readily identify 

their location.” 

Each truck in the fleet is equipped with large underlifts that 

secure your vehicle while it is being transported. They also provide 

wheel lifts as needed to ensure a completely safe tow. Their Air Cushion 

Recovery Systems can safely upright a larger, overturned vehicle 

and even a loaded tractor-trailer. Santa Fe Tow also handles heavy 

equipment hauling, whether bus, tractor, car, ATV, motorcycle or even 

golf carts. In keeping pace with modern technology, Santa Fe Tow 

also has a free downloadable app for your Smartphone, Android or 

iPhone so you can instantly connect with them when needed. “With 

this app, you can call us, set up an appointment if your request is not 

time-sensitive, and it can tell us your location if your phone is GPSenabled,” 

noted Carrie. 

Santa Fe Tow gives just as compassionately to the community, 

as well. Among the many charitable causes they support include the 

Annual Overland Park Touch-A-Truck events that support the Harvesters 

organization. They have also partnered with Bikers for Babies 

for the past ten years, supporting the Kansas City March of Dimes. “If 

you are a motorcyclist who is part of this group, we provide free tows 

should your bike break down during the event,” said Carrie. 

While Carrie acknowledges there are many other reputable 

services out there, she simply cautions, “Don’t be scared; just be 

prepared.” 

Santa Fe Tow provides an honest service for honest pay. That’s 

peace of mind worth buying. ■ 

For more information, visit Santa Fe Tow Service at 9125 Rosehill 

Road in Lenexa, Kansas, call 1-800-927-5201 or 913-894-5201 or go 

online at santafetowservice.com. You may also find them on Facebook 

at facebook.com/santafetow or follow them on Twitter at @ 

SantaFeTow (twitter.com/santafetow). 

Helping you focus 

on all the ingredients that make a 

healthy life. 

Life is a series of changes. Events that 

you’ve been planning for and moments 

you never expected. But no matter what 

change you’re facing, Mosaic Life Care 

will be there — with health care experts 

to heal you when you’re at your worst, or 

life coaches and nutrition experts to help 

you focus on living your best. Because we 

believe that piece of your day, is a bigger 

part of the healthy life you deserve. 

More than health care … life care. 

Learn more at MyMosaicLifeCare.org 


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herlife | mother’s perspective 

Healthy Sleep Habits for Kids 

by lisa taranto butler 

It happens all too often. After a busy and tiresome day, the night 

continues to exhaust weary parents as they try to get the kids off 

to sleep. Whether it is pleas to stay up later, requests for sips of 

water or tales of a nasty nightmare, some kids just can’t seem to 

go to bed. 

According to the National Sleep Foundation, two-thirds of kids 

from toddlers through middle school aren’t getting adequate sleep. 

Most experts agree that nighttime sleep habits are what separate a 

good night’s rest from unsuccessful slumber. 

Dr. Tom Jackson, psychiatrist and author of the article “The Four 

Pillars of Good Sleep Hygiene for Kids,” stresses that sleep hygiene 

is essential. Sleep hygiene refers to the set of habits that promote 

consistently restful and sufficient sleep at night and alertness during 

the day. 

Like teeth brushing or daily exercise, instilling good sleep habits 

early on in life helps promote the retention of those good habits 

throughout a child’s lifetime. 

According to Dr. Jackson, the Four Pillars of Good Sleep Hygiene 

include a bedtime schedule, a bedtime routine, environmental conditions 

of the bedroom and daytime behaviors and habits. 

Bedtime Schedule 

By following a regular nighttime routine, chances are children will rest 

easier and faster. For a sleep schedule to be successful there must be a 

regular bedtime and regular waking time seven days a week. If the pattern 

must be changed during the weekend, parents should allow just one hour 

in either direction for the adjustment. 

A weekend schedule may be harder for adults to stick to than children 


because of the difference in our activities and sleep patterns, but adhering 

to the weekend routine is critical for weeknight success. 

Bedtime Routine 

You know the drill. Have them take a warm bath, put on their PJs, 

brush their teeth, read together and settle in for the night. But about an 

hour before bed, also steer clear of a few sleep pitfalls such as: avoid heavy 

emotional conversations (now is not the time to discuss grandma’s sickness 

or struggling with schoolwork); don’t allow TV and video games (need 

we say more?); roughhousing, running and playing (save this for Saturday 

afternoon); extended good-nights (kids know how to work their parents so 

if we continue to answer their calls to their bedroom, we are sending signals 

that we really aren’t serious about bedtime); caffeine (chocolate, caffeinated 

teas and soda keep both kids and adults awake); and, too many 

liquids (overdoing water, juice and milk will only have your child getting out 

of bed or lying in a wet one). 

Older children might benefit from a light talk about the day’s events or 

future plans as a way to wind down the evening. Board games, card games 

or puzzles are not only relaxing, but offer family bonding time as well. 

Environmental Conditions of the Bedroom 

No one can sleep in an unpleasant environment. Make sure to set a 

comfortable bedroom temperature. Typically, a cooler room is a better option 

than an excessively warm room to keep nighttime awakenings at bay. 

Choose comfortable pajamas and bedding and if your child likes a stuffed 

animal or doll, let them take their friend to bed for extra comfort. 

If children need a night light, make sure it isn’t too bright. Also, circulating 

air can do wonders for relaxation. Try a small oscillating fan or ceiling 

Continued on page 70


fan set on low. Keep the rest of the house quiet as well. Little Susie will find 

it much harder to get shut-eye if Mom and Dad’s TV is blaring the news. 

Lastly, make sure children know their beds are for sleeping only. Avoid 

playing games, eating, watching TV and using cell phones in bed. And 

don’t use a child’s bedroom for punishments or time-outs. Kids should associate 

their bedroom with relaxation and safety. 

Daytime Behaviors and Habits 

Today’s activities can influence tonight’s sleep, so expose children to 

sunlight as soon as they awake. This helps set circadian rhythms for the 

rest of the day. 

Monitor television, Internet and videos. Aggressive and bewildering 

games or images can cause nightmares or stress. Confront any emotional 

issues children may be facing. Moving, divorce, bullying or a death in the 

family can all impact a child’s sleep. Some prescriptions and over-thecounter 

medications can have sleep-interfering side effects. Doctors can 

typically recommend alternative medications. 

Of course, with any changes in habits and behavior, it may take a 

while to see results. Most experts agree that changes in sleep habits are 

just like any other habit—they take time to develop. Give your child at least 

a month to adapt to new sleep patterns. Who knows? Maybe their new 

routine will also give you sounder, more restful sleep. ■ 

Sources: ThomasJacksonMD.com and parents.com. 


PhotoStudios 

adrienne maples 

Studio in Historic Overland Park 913-549-3335 

portraits | weddings | babies & families | editorial 

* Ask about our Family Collections & Specials for Newborns! 

amaples .com 

& amaples 

blog.com 


herlife | green living 

Resolve to Have an All-Recycle, 

Zero Waste Household 

by lisa taranto butler 

Imagine living in a home that produces little or no waste—no 

sandwich baggies, aluminum foil, plastic shopping bags, water 

bottles or trash liners. No paper towels, dishwashing detergent or 

paper napkins. This house only uses recyclable products, reusable 

shopping bags, stainless steel food containers and cleaning 

supplies made from ingredients like baking soda and water. 

Don’t think it’s possible? Find the idea of living with zero waste 

unrealistic? Too busy? Too expensive? Too extreme? 

Zero waste may not be easy, but these days more and more 

families are living as an all-recycle household. Being kinder to the 

environment doesn’t mean we have to start using reusable feminine 

products or build a compost pile this instant. However, we can aim 

our environmental sights higher. 

But where do we start? According to the 

Environmental Protection Agency, the average 

American throws out about 1,000 pounds 

of garbage every year, so just beginning 

a zero waste effort is noble. 

Most experts recommend 

relying on the three 

R’s of conserving 

resources– 

reduce, 

reuse and 

recycle–in 

that order. 

Reduce 

Considered 

the most 

important “R” 

of the three, the 

best way to alleviate 

waste is to not produce 

it. So by reducing 

the amount of products 

we buy and consume, we 

are one step closer to zero waste. 

The best way to alleviate waste is to keep it from coming into the 

home. Junk mail is a huge culprit in overusing resources. Remove your 

name from the mailing lists of correspondence you no longer want to 

receive. Write to Mail Preference Service, c/o Direct Marketing Assoc., P.O. 

Box 90008, Farmingdale, New York 11735. 

Say “NO” to packaging. Buy products in bulk. Try the larger, economysizes 

or concentrated products. In the long run, purchasing in volume is 

cheaper and cost less per ounce. Over-packaged products are landfill 

losers. Avoid the ones with excessive paper, plastic and foil. They are 

expensive to buy and a pain to recycle. 

An easy way to lessen our carbon footprint is to cut down on all the 

disposables in our kitchen. Paper plates, cups, napkins and utensils are 

convenient when we are running ragged, but inopportune when it comes to 

recycling and buying. Disposables need to be replaced over and over, so 

we waste time and money by using them. 

Email rocks! Although receiving a handwritten note in the mail is certainly 

proper, there’s a reason we are using Evites and online birthday cards. 

It’s easy, cheap and doesn’t use resources like snail mail. Plan parties, organize 

meetings and other events by pressing the “send” key—a little harder 

for our mothers to understand, but much easier on Mother Earth. 

Reuse 

Look for the recycling symbol on the products you buy. This symbol 

represents one of two things—either the product can be recycled or it is 

made of recycled material. 

Hand-me-downs are usually appreciated and much easier on the 

environment. The benefits of buying secondhand from a thrift store 

are endless and the work involved is usually minimal. Give old items 

a second life by donating them to a worthwhile charity. This type of 

reusing also provides jobs for workers who are needed to sort, clean, 

fix and sell our old stuff. 

Those packing peanuts can be annoying, but try saving them to mail 

your own delicate parcels. If you don’t have the room to store them, call a 

local shipping retailer and see if they can make plans for your peanuts. 

Other reuse ideas include using old socks and t-shirts as cleaning 

rags. Also, be sure to remember to bring cloth grocery bags to the grocer. 


Keep them in a visible place in your car or purse so those plastic bags 

stay at the store. 

The main point to remember about reusing is to think before you 

throw away. If you are about to pitch something in the trash, imagine 

another way to use it. Then, follow through with your idea. 

Recycle 

Recycling is a complex process, but the most important part of 

recycling begins at home. First, check local collection centers and 

city curbside services to see what materials they accept, and aim 

to mostly buy these products. Refurbish an old piece of furniture or 

household fixture and use it for something different. Get the kids in on 

the action, too. We double our efforts when we help them understand 

the importance of recycling. 

Let’s be honest. Just because your family starts a zero waste 

project doesn’t mean you will fit all of your yearly garbage into a mason 

jar. While the ideas given here only scratch the surface, continue 

to research more zero waste ideas and incorporate them into your 

daily routine. No one says you must have zero waste to make an 

environmental impact, but if you are still reading this article, it means 

you are on the road to mastering the three R’s. ■ 

Sources: zerowastehome.blogspot.com, dnr.mo.gov, 

and simplemom.net. 


herlife | fine things 

Leather Wear 

How to Choose It and Care for It 

by bre roach 

When someone says leather, a few images pop into your 

head (bikers, Kate Beckinsale’s character in Underworld, 

risqué Halloween costumes), but what about 

fine, sophisticated leather pieces? Everyone has that 

one item that they’ve had their eyes on for years, and 

it’s time to invest in a leather piece that will never fade or go out of style 

but rather form to its owner in a way that only one fabric can. 

Fine leather pieces can be mixed and matched with the most subtle 

top to add texture and definition to your once-viewed-as-boring sweater. 

And, thankfully, it’s not nearly as hard as it sounds. With trendy items 

being leather skirts, vests and trousers, it seems much easier to leave the 

leather-wearing to the stars and admire them from afar, but Cupcakes and 

Cashmere blogger Emily Schuman knows that any woman can brave that 

rocker leather piece. Her item of choice? The leather skirt. Donning leather 

attire is all about the comfort and fit. Pair it with a same-shade black top 

or a camel sweater to add an element of texture to an outfit. 

Wearing leather in the summer has become another hot trend. While 

the combination of warm weather and leather may sound like a disaster, 

leather is defying its lifelong reputation with new breathable pieces for the 

sweating season. Vogue featured the line for their online summer edition, 

and used words such as “light” and “ventilated” to describe the several 

pieces they put to the test. 

David Himel, owner of Himel Brothers Leather Co., knows leather. 

He’s made it his life, and through, as he puts it, “sweat and research,” he’s 

managed an incredibly successful and authentically crafted leather retail 

business. After hunting the globe for the most authentic hides possible, he 

found the finest leather craftspeople in the business and married the two 

together. The Himel brothers believe that everyone deserves to have “one 

good thing.” And to them, they can think of nothing better than fine leather. 

While it has become extremely difficult to find quality leather because 

hardly anything is done by craftspeople, there are a few ways to recognize 

different grades and quality. One of those ways is to read the tag and research 

the product. Looking for keywords like “vegetable tanned leather” 

and “top grain leather” will keep you in the clear as far as quality goes. 

Another way is to look at the seams of the article you are purchasing since 

a high quality piece will have flat seams. Flat seams indicate the leather 

was shaved thin by hand, a technique knows as skiver, which will create a 

smooth, polished appearance in the clothing. 

When looking for a really great quality, long-lasting leather piece, try 

to find an item that is stitched with cotton thread, not polyester thread, 

because cotton thread does not damage the leather over time. A jacket 

should, if proper care is taken, “age like a fine piece of furniture and form 


its own unique identity,” as David put it. 

The absolute best way to guarantee quality 

leather is to buy the product from a retailer who 

specializes in leather wear. You are going to 

get what you pay for, including hand-stitching 

details from an actual craftsman. Himel Brothers 

and David Morgan are two leather specializing 

retailers from which you can purchase. 

Caring for leather is fairly simple, even if 

you forget that bag of ice in the backseat of 

your car in the middle of the summer and it 

completely soaks through your killer red leather 

jacket. Have no fear. It can be salvaged. Take 

these steps if leather is saturated: since leather 

shrinks when it gets wet, the best way to dry 

it out is to wear it to assure that it will maintain 

proper fit; never, ever put heat on leather; and, 

if it absolutely has to be cleaned, take it to a 

professional leather cleaner. 

Hopefully you haven’t soaked your leather 

wear and it’s just got traces of being lived in for 

the past six years. With that, David’s best tip is 

to simply wipe down your leather item with a 

damp cloth. A well-maintained piece of leather 

should last for 10 to 20 years, and even after 

all those years, all you have to do is replace 

the oils with beef tallow. As far as maintenance 

goes, these are extremely easy to upkeep. Don’t 

wash it or dry it, and it will outlast you. 

Becoming a purist of leather can definitely 

pay off when you’re looking for a piece that can 

last a lifetime. Himel Brothers has leather bags, 

jackets and belts that date back to the 1800s. 

After all, faux leather is just that–faux–so if you 

want something that will look and feel real, then 

throwing down the extra dollar is necessary. 

The piece will retain its strength and flexibility 

through the years. 

Emily Holt, Fashion Features editor for 

Vogue, wrote that the greatest thing about 

leather was that “whatever the fashion weather, 

it’s always a classic.” There’s nothing more true 

than that. Leather is meant to be lived in, so 

brave the leather mini-skirt or buy a timeless 

bag and wear them endlessly. Quality leather 

will become the oldest friend you’ll ever have. ■ 

Sources: glamour.com, vogue.com, 

David Himel of Himel Brothers Leather 

Co. 



THE 

Women 

OF 

SHAWNEE MISSION FORD 

Now that the winter winds are 

blowing, Keesha offered some 

general car care tips to get you 

through these cold and 

blustery months: 

Oil changes: Now that Ford 

uses a synthetic blend, your 

car will perform longer. 

Instead of the usual guideline 

of changing your oil every three 

months or every 3,000 miles, 

whichever comes first, the new 

standard is every five months 

or every 5,000 miles. 

by ann e. butenas | photography by adrienne maples 

Shawnee Mission Ford is synonymous sion Ford who have literally raised the bar on 

with quality vehicles, fair prices and superior customer service. 

exceptional customer service. This Keesha Mason, Assistant Service Manager, 

is quick to sing the praises of the entire 

family-owned dealership has been 

serving the greater Kansas City area staff, but is also quite proud of the women 

for over 50 years and shows no signs of slowing who make this dealership the leader it is. “We 

down any time soon. Staffed by some of the most have some great women working here in all 

dedicated professionals in the automotive industry, capacities—sales, management and service,” 

Shawnee Mission Ford remains committed to the she expressed, and as one who oversees 

complete satisfaction of their customers. Included in the service department, Keesha readily sings 

their dynamic staff are the women of Shawnee Mis- 

their praises. 

Tire pressure: Be sure to 

check your tire pressure at 

least once each month, 

especially in the winter. If your 

tires are over- or under-inflated, 

this can wear the tread quickly. 

When your tires are properly 

inflated, your car will realize 

better traction and greater 

control, especially on those 

snowy and icy days. 


“In our service department, we have three female advisors and 

two female cashiers,” she noted. “More than likely, when a customer 

pulls up to our service bay area, he or she will be greeted by one of 

our outstanding service women.” 

Keesha credits these phenomenal women with their ability to 

connect compassionately and empathetically with the customers. 

“We do not put the pressure on anyone,” she explained. “We are here 

to help, guide, educate and truly provide each customer with the best 

service specifically for their needs. We don’t oversell nor recommend 

what is not needed.” 

Among the leading female performers at Shawnee Mission Ford 

is Rachel Vandel, one of the top service advisors in the region and 

number four in the nation with Ford. “Rachel has been with us for ten 

years and is an exceptional part of the team,” said Keesha. 

Of course, the entire team of women is rock solid and also 

includes Judy Adams, who started seven years ago in the body shop 

and is now the consummate multitasker in the service department. 

“She will take on anything and everything, and do it exceptionally 

well,” smiled Keesha. 

One of the newer recruits is Joi Townsend. She joined the team 

in May 2012 with an impressive résumé of customer service experience 

and felt the calling to work for such a phenomenal dealership. 

“We are really lucky to have her with us,” expressed Keesha. 

Warranty Administrator Jennifer Kellogg has been with the company 

for 11 years. “Jennifer is the backbone of our department,” said 

Keesha. “Also, Kay Nelson, who works in the body shop, brings over 

20 years of experience to the dealership.” 

Additionally, cashier Amanda Harris is an integral part of the 

team and has been with the dealership for over four years. Shawnee 

Mission Ford also has some outstanding women in its sales force, 

including Rhianna Gerloff and Kara Bartee, as well as Bea Wells, who 

has given over 25 years of exceptional sales leadership to the dealership. 

Dianna Murray is the rock star of Internet sales and all of the 

fabulous ladies in the business office keep this dealership in top form.

"We are here to help, guide, educate and truly provide each customer 

with the best service specifically for their needs. We don’t oversell nor 

recommend what is not needed." 

“There is no doubt you will see more females than males when 

you first come into the service area,” noted Keesha. “However, we 

have a strong team of 55 service employees, both male and female, 

and you won’t get better service anywhere else.” 

“We will check your tire pressure for you if you are uncertain as 

to how to do this,” said Keesha. “Customers can stop by the service 

area any time and we can quickly do this for them.” Shawnee Mission 

Ford also offers a women’s clinic in June of each year. While the date 

for the 2013 event has yet to be set, this highly anticipated and wellattended 

event is a fun-filled evening with prizes and giveaways along 

with various demonstrations on how to change a tire, jumpstart a car, 

check the fluids and understand the technology on newer cars. 

Shawnee Mission Ford truly does offer peace of mind when it 

comes to purchasing and servicing your vehicle. Service hours of 

operation are Monday–Friday, 7:00am–6:00pm; Saturday, 7:00am– 

4:00pm, with a full working shop. They also have a quick lube lane for 

oil changes, offered on a first-come, first-serve basis. ■ 

For more information, visit Shawnee Mission Ford at 11501 

Shawnee Mission Parkway in Shawnee Mission, Kansas, call 

them at 913-631-0000 or go online at shawneemissionford.com. 



herlife | trendsetter 

THE KNOTTY RUG 

4510 state line road 

kansas city, ks 66103 

(913) 677-1877 

www.knottyrug.com 

photography by tracy routh photography 

shot on location at: 

blue gallery 

118 southwest boulevard 

kansas city, mo 64108 









herlife | working women 

Creating an 

Efficient 

Workspace 

by ann e. butenas 

It took begging and pleading, along with serious warnings of my 

office being a fire hazard, finally resulting in those unexpected 

yet necessary words from the lips of my husband, “If you clean 

this place up, I will get you a new desk and a new computer” to 

make me realize that, yes, my home office was a mess and totally 

inefficient in promoting productivity. By this point, not even the dogs 

wanted to hang out in there with me. 

So one afternoon last spring when nobody else was at home, I 

grabbed some trash bags and began to dig through the rubble. By 

nature, I am a very clean and organized individual, but when it comes 

to my office, the ambiance is suggestive of a very busy and frequently 

multi-distracted individual. Who has time to clean up? There is work to 

be done and deadlines to be met. While it may have looked unkempt 

to outsiders, to me it was organized chaos—emphasis on the chaos. 

Two weeks later, the new desk ensemble arrived and the new 

computer soon graced its luxurious mahogany finish. I was in heaven. 

The real trick, however, was to keep my office in shape, user-friendly, 

free of distractions and clutter, and conducive to a productive and 

positive work environment. I refused to fall into old habits. 

One of the biggest challenges next to the files, documents and 

paperwork that can pile up throughout the workday is all of the computer 

and media accessories. When you have a computer, printer and 

fax, and utilize the Internet, there is the added element of unsightly 

wires and cables. Not only do they look messy, but they are also obstacles 

which can prevent you from getting your work accomplished. 

Take control of your office space! Those wires, cables and cords 

should work for you, not the other way around. While you can go to 

most any home improvement or office supply store and find products 

that help store cables and cords, there are also some easy solutions 

right in your own home such as bread bag closures, zip ties and 

binder clips. 

Be sure to keep a keen eye out for any potential fire hazards. 

As elementary as it sounds, keep paper and other flammable materials 

away from an electrical outlet. Also, do not put cords under too 

much stress as that could cause them to break or fray. Running cables 

under a carpet or winding/bending consumer cables repeatedly or too 

tightly can cause this to happen. Also bear in mind that we are merely 

addressing consumer-level cables and cords. Anything that involves 

electrical wiring should be handled by a certified electrician. 

To get all of those cables, cords and wires organized, first unplug 

everything and then untangle all of the cords. Next, plug those cords 

back into the computer and other accessories one at a time, ensuring 

they are not getting tangled up again. As you plug them in, lay them 

in a cord basket attached underneath your desk (IKEA makes a great 

one, but you could probably just fashion one yourself). Before you plug 

in the other ends of the cords, group the common cords together and 

tie them up with zip ties or the bread bag closures I referenced earlier. 

Be sure to leave some wiggle room for cords that periodically have to 

stretch to another destination, such as DVI and VGA cables. 

Next, place the surge protector and/or power strip into the basket 

and plug in the loose ends. Due to varying lengths of cords, you will 

most likely have to double-back on them, so keep common cords 

together once again and zip tie them, allowing for that previously suggested 

wiggle room. You may have one or two cords that need to be 

loose to be used in other locations periodically. Just be sure to keep 

those following the same path as the others. 

You would be surprised at how hiding those unsightly cords and 

cables contributes to the welcoming ambiance of your work space, 

allowing for increased productivity and motivation. For an added idea, 

designate a charging station for cell phones, iPads, iPods and more at 

a separate location in your office, keeping those gadgets away from 

the desktop tools and thereby reducing the clutter of your desk area. 

However, as a writer, I believe the most efficient work space for 

me involves a sandy beach, a lounge chair, my laptop, the natural lighting 

of the sun and the soundtrack of the ocean. One can dream, right? 

At least now I can get to my desk without getting caught up in a bunch 

of messy wires and loose ends. I have tons of other loose ends with 

which to deal that have nothing to do with cables, cords and wires. ■ 

Sources: pcmag.com and lifehacker.com. 



herlife | finance 

Most Common 

Mistakes People 

Make with 

Their Money 

by catie watson 

Nobody likes making mistakes with 

their money, but 

when the economy is tight there’s 

even less margin 

for error. Here are some of the 

most common mistakes 

that people make with their money and tips for 

avoiding them. 

Not knowing the size of their debt 

The best way to tackle debt is by facing 

it head-on. Unfortunately, many people would 

rather bury their head in the sand when it 

comes to understanding their debt. You can 

get a good overview of your debt history and 

current debt status by accessing a free credit 

report at AnnualCreditReport.com. This website 

is the only authorized source for the free 

annual credit report that you’re entitled to by 

law. Your free report will also show your credit 

score and provide suggestions for improving it. 

Not tracking expenses 

A surprising number of people have only 

a vague idea of where their money goes each 

month. They make enough money to cover 

their bills, but they find themselves coming up 

short or unable to save. This could be due to 

weekly shopping sprees as well as small daily 

expenses that can really add up. If you don’t 

know the facts about your spending, invest in a 

financial app or use a notebook to track where 

your money goes. At the end of each month, 

add up your expenses by category to get a 

clear picture of your spending habits. 

Not having a budget 

After tracking your expenses for a couple 

of months or longer, you should have enough 

data to create a budget. If you don’t like the 

sound of the word “budget,” then think of it as 

a spending plan. Write down all your nondiscretionary 

expenses for the month such as 

mortgage or rent, utilities, insurance and credit 

card payments, and then decide how much 

you can set aside for discretionary spending 

and savings. If you combine a spending plan 

with expense tracking, you’ll know for sure 

when it’s time to steer clear of your favorite 

stores or start eating at home more often. If 

you find over time that your plan is no longer 

aligned with your needs and goals, don’t be 

afraid to revise it. 

Failing to save for emergencies 

Financial emergencies come in all shapes 

and sizes, from an unexpected car repair to 

the loss of your job. People who don’t have 

the cushion of an emergency fund are often 

forced to borrow money from family or rely on 

credit cards for emergency expenses. Experts 

suggest saving three to nine months of living 

expenses in an emergency fund that can be 

accessed at any time. 

Spending money on late fees 

Everyone has been late with a bill payment 

at one time or another, but some bills 

carry a stiff penalty when it comes to late 

payments. For credit card companies, late fees 

are big business. On top of being charged a 

late fee of $15 to $39, your credit card interest 


ate may be increased when you’re late with 

a payment. The solution? Set up automatic 

payments from your checking account. As long 

as your checking account balance covers the 

payment, you’ll never be late again. 

Not taking advantage of retirement 

plans 

Does your employer offer a 401(k) or other 

type of retirement plan? Not participating in an 

employer 401(k) program that offers matching 

funds is like throwing away money. Even if 

matching funds aren’t part of the package, you 

can enjoy tax deferral status and avoid paying 

management fees for your retirement investments 

by joining your employer’s plan. 

Buying a home too soon 

With home prices and interests rates 

down, many people feel that they’ll be missing 

out on a great opportunity if they don’t buy 

a home now. The right time to buy a home is 

when you’ve saved a down payment of at least 

20 percent and are sure you can comfortably 

afford monthly mortgage and insurance payments. 

Before you start shopping for a home, 

make sure you can really afford it by using the 

mortgage calculators at Bankrate.com or GinnieMae.gov. 

Paying for bottled water 

This may seem like a small expense, but 

few consumer goods have a higher mark up. 

Americans spend about $4 billion per year 

paying for water that they could get from their 

home faucet for a fraction of the price. According 

to NationalGeographic.com, there’s 

no proof that bottled water is safer than most 

tap water, and the production, transportation 

and disposal of nearly 30 billion plastic bottles 

each year are a major source of environmental 

pollution. Save money and protect the earth by 

investing in a reusable bottle. If you really don’t 

trust your tap water, install a water filter on 

your kitchen faucet. ■ 

Sources: TODAY.com, Bankrate.com, 

AnnualCreditReport.com and 

GreenLiving.National 

Geographic.com. 


herlife | home 

Finding Online 

Sample 

Sales 

by catie watson 

If you love designer merchandise and love it even more when you 

find it on sale, then you need to know about sample sales. Designers 

use these limited-time events to clear out overstocked and 

out-of-season merchandise. According to the Wall Street Journal’s 

SmartMoney website, sample sales have exploded since the start 

of the recession because many consumers have reduced their spending 

on luxury and designer brands. 

Once a well-kept fashion district secret, these deeply discounted 

sales are now available to everyone. Sample sale websites, also known 

as private sale sites, allow you to avoid bargain-hunting crowds while 

you shop from the comfort of home. Most sample sale websites are 

for members only, but registration is usually free. All you need to do 

is enter an email address and password and you’re ready to begin 

shopping. You can even sign up to receive daily email alerts about 

merchandise that’s about to go on sale. As an added bonus, most of 

the sites offer a $10 to $25 credit for each friend you invite to join who 

makes a purchase. 

A couple of hints about online sample sales are in order. To make 

sure you’re always getting the best deal on designer merchandise, 

compare sample sales prices with original prices on retail websites 

and on the designer’s official website. A true sample sale should offer 

double-digit discounts, so look out for designers who try to unload 

extra inventory at nearly full price. Also, most online sample sales use 

a “flash sale” format, with sale merchandise only available for 24 to 72 

hours. This creates a sense of urgency that encourages impulse buying. 

Approach online sample sales with a cool head and avoid spur-ofthe-moment 

decisions that you may later regret. 

Read on for an overview of some of the biggest and best online 

sample sales websites. 

One Kings Lane (onekingslane.com) 

One Kings Lane is as much a lifestyle site as it is a shopping des- 

tination, with stunning photos, designer profiles, ideas for entertaining 

and home design tips. The site specializes in top-brand furniture, art, 

décor and gifts for the home. There’s also an area on the website dedicated 

to one-of-a-kind antique and vintage furniture and accessories. 

Anyone can become a member of One Kings Lane and get notified 

each morning when flash sales go live. 

Rue La La (ruelala.com) 

Registration is free for this members-only website, but you need 

an invitation from another member before you can join. Rue La La 

offers a daily selection of desirable brands in private sale boutiques 

that feature beautifully photographed fashion, beauty and home décor 

items. The site has recently branched out and offers dining, local services 

and entertainment events in a growing number of cities. 

Gilt Groupe (gilt.com) 

Gilt Groupe requires shoppers to register with an email address 

but no invitation is required. Once you’ve registered, you can begin 

to shop immediately for designer fashions and accessories, home 

furnishings, food and wine, personal services, vacations and even 

high-end vehicles like the Jaguar XGL. Daily emails provide notification 

about 36-hour flash sale deals with discounts of up to 70 percent off. 

Joss & Main (jossandmain.com) 

This free membership website provides insider access to limitedtime 

sales on furniture, housewares, gifts and “lifestyle accessories.” 

Each sale spotlights a design trend or influential designer. The website 

features a handy calendar of sale events that makes it easy to plan 

your shopping, and a Plume Mag section with DIY articles on design, 

entertaining, leisure and lifestyle. Joss & Main also has an iTunes app 

that lets you review sale events and shop from your iPhone or iPad. 


HauteLook (hautelook.com) 

Acquired by Nordstrom in 2011, HauteLook is one of the few 

membership sale sites owned by an established brick-and-mortar 

retailer. The site features discounts on women’s and men’s fashion 

and accessories, beauty aids, kids’ clothing and toys, and home décor 

at up to 75 percent off. Unlike other online sample sales that sell 

merchandise “as is” with no returns or exchanges, HauteLook allows 

many items to be returned within 21 days as long as the original tags 

are attached. You can join for free and then shop new sale events each 

day starting at 8:00am Pacific time. 

Ideeli (ideeli.com) 

Ideeli identifies itself as a members-only shopping community that 

offers up to 80 percent savings on luxury fashion, home décor, beauty 

items and more. Although fewer top designers are featured than on 

the other sample sale sites, Ideeli features some of the lowest prices. 

Established in 2007, Ideeli is one of the sample sale sites and claims to 

have more than 5 million members. But buyers beware–some may feel 

that Ideeli has grown too fast–online reviews indicate that the website’s 

customer service leaves a lot to be desired. ■ 

Sources: SmartMoney.com, RealSimple.com 

and SiteJabber.com. 



by kathleen m. krueger | photography by 

adrienne maples 

Personalized care—this is the distinction which 

sets Adams Dairy Family Dental Care in Blue 

Springs apart from the average dental office, 

according to Dr. Joy Steen. “We offer true family 

care, serving patients of all ages,” said Dr. Steen. 

In addition to being a dental office that can service 

the entire family, Adams Dairy Family Dental Care provides 

flexible appointment hours to accommodate the hectic 

schedules of our everyday lives. Adams Dairy’s office hours 

extend from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays 

and Thursdays while also offering Saturday hours. Adams 

Dairy Family Dental Care understands taking time off work 

or school for dental appointments is not ideal which is why 

accommodating their patients’ schedules is top priority. 

The extended office hours are only one way Adams 

Dairy Family Dental Care personalizes their services to meet 

the busy schedules of the modern family. At Adams Dairy, a 

dental emergency is recognized as just that—an emergency! 

You can call ahead or even stop in, and you will be seen immediately 

if you are dealing with an emergency that cannot 

wait for a scheduled appointment. 

Even when your dental care is not an emergency, 

Adams Dairy Family Dental Care welcomes walk-in patients. 

They understand that people often put off making their 

dental appointments, and when you realize it’s been too 

long between appointments, you want to take care of it right 

away. Your oral health is vital to maintaining your overall 

health, and the Adams Dairy team wants to make it as easy 

as possible for you keep up with your oral hygiene. Adams 

Dairy Family Dental Care attempts to be as flexible as pos- 


sible in their patient scheduling. 

One of the innovative features available 

for the patients of Adams Dairy Family 

Dental Care is online appointment scheduling 

through their website. We have become a 

society that appreciates the 24/7 access to 

businesses on the Internet, and Adams Dairy 

Family Dental Care has taken advantage of 

that technology by allowing their patients to 

request appointments via their website, any 

time, day or night. “Our patients absolutely 

love the online scheduling option,” according 

to Dr. Steen. 

The online scheduling service allows you 

to enter your preferred days of the week and 

times of day, along with the purpose of your 

appointment–cleaning, dental exam, filling, 

etc.–and then submit the request with your 

name, email address and phone number. The 

office staff reviews openings on the appointment 

calendar and contacts you with a date 

and time for your appointment. No sitting on 

the phone during business hours while you 

wait for them to search for the best option. In 

addition, those forms you always have to fill 

out on your first visit to a dentist office—they 

are available on the website too. Download 

them and fill them out ahead of time instead 

of adding on an extra ten minutes to your 

appointment. 

As their client list continues to grow, 

Adams Dairy Family Dental Care has accommodated 

that growth by adding new members 

to their professional staff. This assures 

their patients that the flexible, personalized 

care they have come to appreciate from their 

dental office remains available. 

In July 2012, Dr. Justin Garner joined the 

staff at Adams Dairy Family Dental Care. Dr. 

Garner is a graduate of the University of Missouri 

- Kansas City School of Dentistry, as is 

Dr. Steen. Both dentists enjoy working with 

patients of all ages, and are committed to the 

ongoing education necessary to keep current 

with the newest techniques and technology 

related to oral health and dental care. They 

are just as committed to the Adams Dairy 

Family Dental Care philosophy of open and 

caring communication with each and every 

patient. 

“I want my patients to know without a 

doubt that they will have my undivided attention 

every time they visit, and that their needs 

will be met the best way possible,” said Dr. 

Justin Garner. 

When you enter Adams Dairy Family 

Dental Care, you’ll find the atmosphere calm 

and relaxing. Going to the dentist isn’t always 

a favorite appointment, but rest assured that 

you will be taken care of by top doctors with 

state-of-the-art equipment. For a Kansas City 

dental office made to order for the modern 

family, Adams Dairy Family Dental Care definitely 

fits the bill! ■ 

Adams Dairy Family Dental Care is located 

at 1126 NE Coronado Drive, Suite 109 

in Blue Springs, Missouri. You can find them 

online at adamsdairyfamilydentalcare.com or 

call for an appointment at 816-229-4527. 




herlife | real estate 

Researching Your 

Real Estate Professional 

by kathleen m. krueger 

Whether you want to buy or to sell a home, choosing 

the right real estate professional for the job is one of 

the first decisions you will need to make. It is also a 

very important one. 

If you’ve watched any of the reality shows on 

the Home and Garden Network, such as Property Virgins or House 

Hunters, you know that a good real estate agent or broker can be the 

key to finding the right property for a buyer. Likewise, a savvy seller’s 

agent will work hard to get you the top price in the shortest amount of 

time. Choosing someone to represent your interests in such an important 

transaction should be done only after you have completed some 

serious research. 

Broker vs. Agent 

One of the designations within the real estate industry that is 

commonly misunderstood is that of a ‘broker’ versus an ‘agent’ or 

salesperson. Anyone who provides guidance in regard to real estate 

transactions should be legally licensed by their state to do so. Each 

state has requirements as far as education, and each has a real 

estate licensing exam which must be passed in order to operate as a 

real estate salesperson. 

However, to be licensed as a real estate broker, additional 

requirements must be met because there are additional responsibilities 

and liabilities that apply to those agents who chose to take on a 

broker role. The primary difference between the two designations is 

that a broker has a managerial role. Real estate agents work under 


the legal umbrella of their broker. That broker carries the full weight of 

liability for the actions of the agents that operate under his broker’s 

license. In order to become a broker, an individual must also meet 

certain levels of education or experience in addition to passing the 

broker’s exam. 

Qualifications to Seek 

In most cases, the professional you work with directly will be an 

agent, not the broker himself. However, there are plenty of brokers 

who still get involved in individual transactions in addition to overseeing 

the agents who operate under their broker’s license. The obvious 

first qualification is that your professional has a current real estate 

license for the state in which he is operating. Each state has a governing 

agency which lists current real estate licenses. Take the time 

to verify that your agent or broker is currently licensed by visiting that 

agency’s website. 

Years of experience is the second key factor to ask about when 

interviewing a potential agent or broker. Be careful not to measure 

experience just in years; ask whether they are a full-time or part-time 

agent. You will also want to ask for their sales record statistics. How 

many closings did they have during the past twelve months? What 

was the average price range on those home sales? Were the sales 

primarily in one area or do they represent a broader spectrum? These 

types of questions will give you a fuller picture of your agent’s experience 

and how well it fits with your real estate needs. Asking for these 

same types of statistics for the real estate broker where the agency 

Continued on page 98


works will give you a similar picture for the firm as a whole. 

References and Referrals 

Statistics are limited in what they can tell you about the performance 

of any professional. To get some personal insight into how 

a real estate broker or a particular agent treats their clients, ask for 

references, and ask your friends for recommendations and referrals to 

real estate brokers who they have used in the past. When speaking to 

references, ask about how responsive the agent was to their calls and 

questions. If they sold their home through the agent, were they satisfied 

with the efforts of the agent to market their home and meet their 

financial requirements? If the agent represented them as buyers, was 

he active in searching out properties for them to look at, or did the 

buyers have to suggest properties to the agent? Did the agent demonstrate 

an understanding of their priorities? The answers to these 

questions can give you a picture of either a successful relationship 

with the agent or a frustrating one that you may want to avoid. 

Your real estate broker or agent can make the purchase or sale 

of your home go smoothly, or make it a bit bumpier than it needs to 

be. Take the time to interview and research each professional before 

making a commitment to engage them in service. Purchasing and 

selling your home has enough stress on its own. Your real estate broker 

should be the one who helps decrease those stressors. ■ 

Source: realtor.com. 



herlife | travel 

Destinations 

for 

Women 

by beth blair 

It’s nothing personal against the men in our lives, but sometimes a 

girlfriend getaway is just what we need for rejuvenation, laughter 

and catching up. We know that not all ladies like the same type of 

trips so we found a handful of ladies-only getaways that will appeal 

to everyone, from inspirational weekend-long excursions to adventurous 

test-your-boundaries trips to foreign explorations. 

Exotic Tours 

Visiting the unknown territory of a new region and culture may 

seem intimidating to some women, but when you opt for guided tours, 

much of your hesitancy should float away and put your mind at ease. 

WanderTours founder Beth Whitman has been traveling the world for 

more than 23 years, and today leads women-only tours to exotic lands 

such as Bhutan, India, Vietnam, Cambodia and Burma, and new women-only 

culinary tours to Santa Fe, New Mexico and Seattle, Washington. 

“These are small group tours that focus on culture and, in the case 

of the culinary tours, food,” says Beth. “By keeping the groups small 

(between 5 to 15 people), it allows us to do things that large groups 

can’t manage such as having dinner at the home of a tribal family in 

Northern Vietnam or visiting the home of a famous war photographer 

in Vietnam. We also include hands-on cooking classes on many of the 

tours and try to meet with women expats living in the country so that 

the group can get an idea of what it’s like to live there.” 

Thanks to Beth’s experience, you’ll feel comfortable treading into 

new territory, but what makes this experience even more attractive 

is that these trips benefit others. “On most tours we build in a giving 

component through the WanderTours Giving Program,” says Beth. “A 

portion of each person’s tour cost goes to a program to help the locals. 

We’ve donated to nunneries in Bhutan and Burma, and are working on 

building water tanks to give clean drinking water to villagers in Papua 

New Guinea.” 

Culinary Class in France 

Every May and September, the owners of Raison d’Art, which is 

situated between the wine growing regions of Gaillac and Cahor in 

southwest France, offers a seven-day, women-only Culinary Adventures 

retreat with onsite chefs Carol Cotner-Thompson and Pamela Salzman. 

The week taps into the region’s culinary history as guests learn to cook 

locally inspired dishes with local, fresh ingredients, and entails five 

hands-on cooking classes, wine tasting and various outings including a 

cheese farm, vineyard tour, shopping at the local outdoor markets and 

visits to the local medieval villages. Besides fabulous memories, ladies 

leave with a notebook full of the week’s recipes. 

Shopping Getaway 

Lucky for us ladies, almost every city has a variety of girlfriend 

getaway specials. Dunwoody in Atlanta, Georgia, is one such destination 

that knows how to cater to the ladies with its reputation for 

shopping, spas and dining. The key to this getaway is signing up for 

the Girlfriends Getaway Club Card which offers fantastic hotel rates 

and packages–think slumber party fun with champagne, movie rentals 

and breakfast–and discounts at nearby restaurants and shops. You may 

want to bring an empty suitcase for this trip. 

Great Minds 

CampExperience, held at the Keystone Resort & Conference 

Center in Colorado, is a one-of-a-kind weekend-long annual retreat 

designed specifically women with the focus of teaching and inspiring 

ladies through fun activities, fascinating workshops, keynote presentations, 

boutique shopping, spa treatments and hands-on adventures in 

a gorgeous setting. Get ready to laugh, network and learn at this Rocky 

Mountain ladies-only getaway. 

Surfing 

If you and your friends are water adventurists at heart, then WB 

Surf Camp Women’s Surf - Yoga Surf Retreat at Wrightsville Beach, 

North Carolina, is a must-do. Spend six days enjoying yoga classes, 

beginner surf lessons and stand up paddle boarding. In between, tour 

the backwaters of Wrightsville Sound, take a boat ride to secluded Ma- 


sonboro Island, explore the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Hospital and even 

learn the history of surfboard design at Surf City Surf Shop. 

Sports Tour 

If you want to take your adventures a step further, head down to 

Costa Rica for the BikeHike Adventures excursion. Tropical rainforests, 

white sand beaches and active volcanoes are waiting for you along with 

hands-on escapes of biking, hiking, yoga, whitewater rafting, zip lining, 

horseback riding and plenty of pampering. These nine-day women-only 

trips combine thrilling adventures that will likely keep you and your gal 

pals returning year after year. 

Glamping 

Combined glamour-camping will never grow old and one perfect 

setting for this is the Wyoming mountains with Rangeland Hunting Adventures, 

where your group of girlfriends will head out into the Big Horn 

Mountains by horseback for a weekend of outdoor fun camping, hiking, 

fishing and trail riding. This glamping adventure includes pre-built tents 

complete with a chimney and pot-bellied fireplace, cots, meals and 

experienced guides. ■ 

Sources: wandertours.com, raisondartfrance.com, 

cvbdunwoody.com, campexperience.com, 

wbsurfcamp.com, bikehike.com 

and rangelandhuntingadventures.com. 


herlife | pets 

Best Websites for 

Pet Medications and Discounts 

Taking care of pets has become almost as expensive as taking 

care of your kids. In 2011, 62 percent of U.S. households 

owned a pet, and Americans spent an estimated $50 

billion on their pets, including nearly $7 billion for prescription 

and over-the-counter (OTC) pet medications. The sale 

of prescription and OTC flea, tick, and heartworm products totaled 

nearly $3.7 billion in 2011. 

Gone are the days when the vet looked at your dog or cat, and 

you were on your way with a huge bottle of skin salve or a tonic 

guaranteed to solve most problems. Today, vets are doctors specializing 

in the care of non-human animals, and they treat pets with the 

same care and skills as human doctors. New and improved lab tests, 

X-rays and pricey medications are often as expensive as those for 

humans. So, many proud owners look for less expensive alternatives. 

Using specialty shops or online shopping can lower costs and 

provide added convenience. 

Shopping online offers alternatives to the mark-up veterinarians 

charge for meds. Legislation passed in many states permits a 

licensed veterinarian pharmacist to dispense controlled medications 

for animals that are approved by the Food and Drug Administration 

and the Environmental Protection Agency. (Legislation is pending on 

House Bill 1406 that would require veterinarians to provide clients 

with a written prescription for all pet medications, regardless of 

whether requested, and inform clients of their rights to have pet medications 

dispensed elsewhere.) In those states that require a licensed 

pharmacist to dispense controlled medications, either you send in 

your prescription to a Vet-VIPPSCH or the pharmacy will contact your 

personal veterinarian for verification. The pharmacists are required by 

law to know the pet’s medical problems, weight, breed and age before 

dispensing medications. Your pet’s medications will be monitored 

for drug interactions, accuracy, freshness and appropriateness of less 

expensive generics. 1-800-Pet Meds is one of the best known online 

pharmacies; others are VetRxDirect, PetMedsnMore and VetDepot. 

Getting your vet to honor online pricing may be more difficult 

than you think. Many vets consider the income from prescription 

medications to be part of their income. Like everyone else, vets are 

struggling to make ends meet as fewer clients are able to afford their 

services. Other vets feel that offering a service to their patients such 

as medical services is their primary function, and selling auxiliary 

services such as grooming, physical therapy and medications should 

be competitive sources of income but not the primary one. In the 

long run, the decision will probably be made by clients. 

For many pet owners, the trade-off between the convenience of 

purchasing medications at their veterinarian’s office and the cost is 

a dilemma to be decided on a case-by-case basis. The main consideration 

for many clients is the convenience. Even thought the meds 

may cost more, many pet owners prefer to receive their medications 

at their vet’s office when their pet is sick because of the convenience, 

rather than making a trip to the pharmacy and waiting in line. Other 

clients speak of the considerable difference in price for medications 

and supplies that may be required for long-term care. Thus, for supplies, 

prescription food and medications, and the possibility of using 

generics, many clients believe that online resources, Sam’s Club, Wal- 

Mart and the grocery store are easier on the pocketbook, and in many 

cases, far more convenient. 

Ordering in bulk depends on the client’s needs. For those with 

many pets, bulk ordering may be the way to go. The problem is that 

if you have two dogs (a Chihuahua 

and a Doberman), a cat 

and other small animals, 

it might not be the 

bargain you think. 

Dogs and 

by linda r. price 


cats require different medications even for the same fleas, ticks and 

heartworm disease. The different weight of the dogs requires a different 

formulation. Still, ordering a year’s supply of the most common 

prescriptions (e.g., Frontline Plus, K9 Advantix II, Revolution and 

Heartgard Plus) lowers costs further, especially if you have animals of 

the same type and size. 

Using non-commercial products for your pets is usually a personal 

choice, too. Many busy families would never consider using 

non-commercial food products simply because of the inconvenience. 

Most pets do very well on commercial dry or wet food. If your pet is a 

puppy or kitten, ask the breeder what she feeds her animals and use 

that product first. As the pet ages, you can experiment and change the 

food if you wish. 

Owners may prefer to use the best products available on the market 

and search for different brands or providers of non-commercial pet 

food. Pets with special dietary needs cannot tolerate many commercial 

products. The main consideration is your pet’s reaction to commercial 

products (or non-commercial ones). If it works, use it. There is no right 

or wrong answer. Do your research and then the choice becomes what 

is best for your pet’s needs and your pocketbook. ■ 

Ring itititi tititin 

tn in! 

Aluminum and 

brass with sass by 

Christophe Poly, Canada 

Lots of styles: $30 each 

Sources: Federal Trade Commission. Workshop on Pet Medication 

Issues. Federal Register. Vol. 77, No. 131. July 9, 2012; 

woodhavenlabs.com; and nabp.net. 

North American Art & Fine Crafts 

102 Main Street, Historic Downtown Parkville, 816-587-8070 

Open 7 days a week. Fridays until 8 p.m. 

RBG-HL-Jan2013.indd 1 

12/10/12 2:04:37 PM 


herlife | just sayin’ 

JUST SAYIN' 

by jenny matthews | photography by 

ron berg photography and ward parkway center 

I 

really need to stop Googling. I almost wish Web MD didn’t 

exist! Oh, and putting the Web MD app on my smartphone? 

Not so smart! My name is Jenny Matthews and I’m 

a hypochondriac! Well, self-diagnosed anyway. 

Teresa (from the Rocket & Teresa Morning Show 

on Mix 93.3) laughs at me and reminds me all the time about 

how when my husband and I returned home from our lovely 

honeymoon in Jamaica a few years ago, I was convinced I 

had contracted the African sleeping sickness. What? You’ve 

never heard of it? Well, I assure you, it’s real. And I had 

it. Well, at least the Internet told me so after I typed in my 

symptoms! What? You mean I couldn’t have contracted the 

African sleeping sickness while in Jamaica? I guess that does 

make sense. 

I used to think it was just me. Then, I started sharing my 

stories with girlfriends who assured me that they too have 

had many rare conditions. We’re all sure our doctors think 

we’re crazy when we go for appointments and tell them exactly 

what’s wrong with us. Why did we even bother to go? 

What did we hypochondriacs do before the Internet? 

I don’t know if I would’ve had the motivation to actually go 

to the library to research my conditions. I’m not even sure I 

owned a set of encyclopedias. Sometimes I think technology 

is too much for our own good. 

So, one of my resolutions for 2013 is to stop Googling 

my ailments and to leave my legitimate concerns to the 

expertise of my medical providers. It’s in print now, so I’m 

hoping that’ll help me stick to it! ■ 

Jenny Matthews is Mix 93.3’s radio darling! She 

is the host of The Jenny Matthews Show and 

has been happily married for 7 years to 

caller number 9 (... ask her about that sometime!) 


Experience You Trust, 

Results You Want 

Selected as a Rising Star by 

Kansas & Missouri Super Lawyers Magazine 

DIVORCE 

FAMILY LAW 

7225 Renner Rd., Suite 200 

Shawnee, KS 66217 

www.evans-mullinix.com 

stephanie@evans-mullinix.com 

CALL 913.890.7041 

Stephanie Tucker Muir, 

Attorney at Law 


herlife | tie the knot 

by candi smith | photography by alea lovely 

Cody 

KOISA 

Koisa Sun was born August 3, 

1984, in Hangzhou, China. After 

two years at Ningbo University 

studying English and French, she 

was chosen to go to the United 

States as an exchange student for one year. 

Koisa then returned to China to finish her 

Bachelor’s Degree and decided to pursue 

further studies in the United States. She 

graduated from Pittsburg State University in 

2008 with a Master’s in Human Resource Development, 

and then moved to Kansas City 

after accepting an internship with the City 

Manager’s Office. Meanwhile, she started 

work at Bo Ling’s Chinese Restaurant as an 

assistant manager and cashier where she 

met her future husband, who was working as 

a server. 

Cody Ross was born in Philadelphia, 

Pennsylvania, on May 14, 1985, to John and 

Cathy Ross. He has an older brother, Joshua, 

with whom he is very close. They grew up 

in Dickinson, North Dakota, before moving 

LOCAL BUSINESSES 

THAT SHARED IN THE LOVE 

Bridal Gown: 

White by Vera Wang purchased 

at David’s Bridal 

Groom and groomsmens' 

Suits: 

Jos. A. Bank 

Hair Styling: 

Lindsey Klein at Hair Connection 

of Liberty 

Hair/Makeup: 

Gabby Baculi 

Photography: 

Alea Lovely Fine Art 

Photography 

Florist: 

Tanan Floral 

Caterer: 

Kansas City Airport Marriott 

Cake: 

Bo Ling’s 

Venue: 

Kansas City Airport Marriott 

Jeweler: 

Tiffany & Co. 

Wedding Coordinator: 

Sarah Ventola at Kansas City 

Airport Marriott 


to Palestine, Texas, where they lived until 

2002. Cody attended William Jewell College 

in Liberty, Missouri, where he majored in 

Theater and Film and graduated in 2006. 

He remained in Kansas City to pursue his 

creative endeavors and worked various jobs. 

He found employment at Bo Ling’s Chinese 

Restaurant where he worked as a server and 

met his future wife, Koisa Sun, in 2009. They 

eventually started seeing each other outside 

of work. 

Cody had a special ring made for Koisa 

and picked it up before returning home from 

work. When he got home, he knocked on 

the apartment door. Koisa opened the door, 

Cody handed her a rose bouquet, and he got 

down on one knee and asked her to spend 

the rest of their life together. 

The happy couple tied the knot on 

March 17, 2012. Koisa’s Maid of Honor was 

her best friend, Bing Xu. Her bridesmaid was 

Lu Yunyang, a close friend from China whom 

Koisa met in graduate school in the United 

States. Cody’s Best Man was his brother, 

Continued on page 108 


herlife | tie the knot 

Joshua Ross. His groomsman was Aiden 

Fleming, his close childhood friend with whom 

he grew up in Palestine, Texas. The Officiant 

was Jimmy Blackwell, another close childhood 

friend of Cody and Joshua’s from Palestine. 

Koisa and Cody really wanted the wedding 

to not only be about them as a couple, 

but very much about their appreciation for 

their friends and family. They wanted to use 

their wedding as a way of saying thank you to 

everyone for being in their lives and for their 

support. Koisa’s friends and family came a long 

way from China to be there and that meant a 

tremendous amount to the couple. The wedding 

was officiated by Cody’s childhood friend, 

Jimmy, which was very special because there 

was no one else who would have brought such 

warmth and humor to the event. 

The newlyweds honeymooned in Orlando, 

Florida. They went there because Koisa had 

never been and they wanted to relax and enjoy 

themselves in a comfortable, sunny place. 

They went to Disneyworld and had a wonderful 

time.■ 



HERLIFE | in the city 

All calendar event submissions must be received by January 5th for the 

February issue and adhere to our guidelines. E-mail 

kellie@herlifemagazine.com for guidelines or to submit entries. 

JANUARY 

6 RG’s Sunday Open Jam in 

Independence 

Date: January 6 

Time: 5:00pm–8:30pm 

Location: RG’s, 9100 E. 35th Street South, Independence, MO 

Details: RG’s Sunday Open Jam hosted by Jammin’ Jan Lamb, Scotty 

Yates, Dennis Nickell and Rick Eidson. 

11 The Barn Junior Presents All Shook 

Up Featuring the Songs and Music of Elvis 

Presley 

Dates: January 11, January 12, January 13, January 18, 

January 19 and January 20 

Times: January 11, January 12, January 18 and January 19, 

7:30pm; January 13 and January 20, 2:00pm 

Location: The Barn Players Theatre, 6219 Martway, Mission, KS 

Details: Tickets for The Barn Junior production of All Shook Up are 

$10 each and can be purchased by calling 1-800-838-3006, by going to 

the theatre website at thebarnplayers.org or at the theatre box office the 

dates of performance. 

24 Concussion Care for Kids—More 

Than a Bump on Your Head 



Location: The University of Kansas Clinical Research Center in the 

Fairway Office Park, 4350 Shawnee Mission Parkway, Fairway, KS 

Details: Learn about concussion care for kids from an expert—Terri 

Brandley, RN, clinical coordinator for The Center for Concussion Management 

at The University of Kansas Hospital. The new center focuses 

on minimizing the impact concussions have on the injured people’s lives 

and future health. Registration is required for the free Be Well! program. 

To make a reservation or obtain more information about this and other 

wellness programs offered by The University of Kansas Hospital, call 

913-588-1227 or visit kumed.com/bewell. 

27 North Kansas City Hospital: Free 

Health Fair 



Location: North Kansas City Hospital, 2800 Clay Edwards Drive, 

Kansas City, MO 

Details: The public is invited to participate in a free health fair, tour 

the new area and enjoy light refreshments. Attend the opening event for 

North Kansas City Hospital’s new Emergency Department. The expansion 

enhances North Kansas City Hospital’s existing services in the 

Emergency Department and brings additional care and convenience to 

patients, families and visitors. The $18 million project includes 28,000 

square feet with 42 private rooms, 3 trauma rooms, dedicated CT scanner 

in ER (a unique feature) and rooftop helipad. For more information, 

call 816-691-5485. 

31 Brantley Gilbert Hell on Wheels Tour 

with Kip Moore 


Time: 7:30pm 

Location: Independence Events Center, 19100 E. Valley View Parkway, 

Independence, MO 

Details: Hot Country rebel Brantley Gilbert, who has already received 

much praise for his fist- pumping, high-energy live show as an opener 

on both Eric Church and Toby Keith’s tours, is coming to the Independence 

Events Center. Special guest and rising country star Kip Moore 

will be the support act on the tour. Gilbert was most recently nominated 

for both the 2012 ACM and CMA New Artist of the Year after earning his 

first-ever nod in the Song of the Year category at the 2011 CMA Awards. 

His sophomore project, the GOLD-certified Halfway to Heaven Deluxe, 

debuted at #2 on the Billboard Country Albums Chart and produced two 

GOLD, #1 singles, “Country Must Be Country Wide,” and “You Don’t 

Know Her Like I Do.” Tickets available through Silverstein Eye Centers 

Box Office at Independence Events Center or all Ticketmaster locations 

including Ticketmaster.com or call 1-800-745-3000. Tickets range from 

$33–$44, plus service fees. 

Women’s Health Screenings and Care 

Guidelines 



Location: The University of Kansas Clinical Research Center in the 

Fairway Office Park, 4350 Shawnee Mission Parkway, Fairway, KS 

Details: Changes in national guidelines on women’s health screenings 

and care will be discussed by The University of Kansas Hospital’s Kimberly 

Swan, MD, in this free Be Well! program. Registration is required. 

To make a reservation or obtain more information about this and other 

wellness programs offered by The University of Kansas Hospital, call 

913-588-1227 or visit kumed.com/bewell. 



herlife | horoscope 

STAR JOURNEYS 

by john sandbach 

Scorpio 

OCT. 23-NOV. 21 

Maybe you have 

been hiding too much. 

Maybe it’s time to 

reveal yourself a little 

more. Something or 

someone is trying to 

get your attention, 

so if you hear a soft 

knocking on the door 

of your psyche, answer 

it. Hardships can 

be lightened by connecting 

with others 

and letting them know 

of the problems you’re 

experiencing. Things 

can get a lot better 

now if you’re open to 

that possibility. 


Sagittarius 

NOV. 22-DEC. 21 

Now’s the time to do 

some detective work, 

some exploring and 

research. You may 

not even know what 

you’re looking for, but 

if you’re feeling curious 

about anything, allow 

yourself to pursue it. 

Some situation may be 

throwing up a barrier to 

you, and it’s possible to 

get beyond this barrier 

if you approach the 

situation cautiously and 

carefully. Time alone 

now to think can be 

very restorative to you, 

and is like pushing a 

reset button so that 

you can take a fresh 

look at life. 

Capricorn Aquarius Pisces Aries 

DEC. 22-JAN. 19 JAN. 20-FEB. 18 FEB. 19-MAR. 20 MAR. 21-APR. 19 

You’ll be far more 

effective now if you 

exercise the light 

touch, and lead 

without seeming to 

lead. Situations where 

conflicts are at work 

can be very effectively 

handled by your 

diplomacy now, and 

by being firm but 

gentle. All of your 

relationships can take 

on a new depth, and 

working to foster this 

will be most beneficial 

to you. 

This is a good time to 

collect your resources 

together, and to 

concentrate rather 

than scatter your 

energies. Your energy 

is powerful now, and 

it’s good to use it 

to enhance your 

relationships with 

other people. The 

best thing to do now 

is to validate yourself 

rather than waiting for 

or expecting others 

to do it. 

You may not have the 

right tools to do what 

you have to do, so you 

may have to modify 

what you have on hand 

to make things work. 

It’s great to experiment 

this month, and 

to find another way to 

proceed when the way 

you’re looking to move 

forward isn’t opening 

up. Keep everything 

around you as fresh, 

renewed and stimulating 

as possible, and do 

things that wake you 

up and get your energy 

going. This will help to 

prevent getting stuck. 

Taurus Gemini Cancer Leo Virgo Libra 

APR. 20-MAY 20 

Lots of insights are 

coming your way. Two 

questions to ponder 

are: Will you allow 

yourself to be aware 

of them, and if you 

will, what will you do 

with them? The narrow 

view just doesn’t 

work now. You need 

to set your sights on 

the long-range potentials 

of your life. Shun 

all conflicts unless you 

have a truly vested 

interest in them. 

MAY 21-JUNE 20 

Make your own 

progress in your own 

time, and speak your 

truth no matter who 

is listening or ignoring 

you. So much now 

doesn’t matter, and 

if it doesn’t really 

matter to you, then 

why worry about it. Do 

not be influenced or 

brought down by the 

negative opinions of 

others. The more energy 

you put into your 

own trip, the more 

you’ll enjoy it. 

Your life could be 

quite wonderful now, 

for there’s a strong 

tendency for surprises 

to come your way, and 

unexpected turns of 

events that enhance 

your potential for 

success. There are 

things you might think 

will take a long time 

to deal with, but if the 

right things happen, 

and you approach 

them in the right way, 

they can resolve themselves 

far more quickly 

than you might think. 

The biggest issue to deal with right now is deciding the 

most practical things we can do to better ourselves. 

This question is more complicated than it seems for 

to answer it, we have to first decide what it is we really 

want. We are all learning now that it is not practical to 

only serve outer concerns for unless we are happy and 

fulfilled in our inner lives, our outer involvements will not 

be able ultimately to succeed. Everything can become 

more practical and efficient during this month if we’re 

willing to experiment with new methods. 

If you must allow 

yourself to be natural, 

it will enhance your 

life greatly. You don’t 

need to adorn things 

now, or justify yourself. 

Be who you are, 

say what you think 

and feel, and if anyone 

has a problem with it, 

it’s their problem and 

not yours. You may 

have been carrying 

around some burdens 

you didn’t even know 

you had. When you 

realize this, set them 

down and walk on. 

Now’s the time to refine 

what you’re doing, 

and to keep cultivating 

the things you’re 

working on. Be very 

aware of the types 

of things needed by 

the projects you’re 

working on, and try to 

stick to those projects 

that you feel the most 

connection to rather 

than spending too 

much time working 

for others or trying to 

meet their needs. A 

big harvest is soon to 

be reaped by you. 

This is your month to 

come back to your 

center, and to reaffirm 

what you stand 

for and what’s most 

important to you. This 

may involve pulling 

away from involvements 

that are taking 

up too much of your 

time and energy, and 

letting down people 

who you would like 

to help but who you 

no longer have the 

energy for. Stand up 

for yourself and you’ll 

find that things can go 

very well now. 

JUNE 21-JULY 23 JULY 24-AUG. 22 AUG. 23-SEPT. 22 SEPT. 23-OCT. 22 

Even if you have to 

go slow, keep going. 

Even if you don’t know 

where you’re going, 

keep going because if 

you stall out now, it will 

just waste time. Good 

intentions can carry 

you though even the 

scariest of situations. 

If you see a shortcut, 

take it, even if it seems 

unsure. Your attitude is 

controlling everything 

now so keep it cheerful, 

hopeful and trusting 

as much as possible.

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