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herlife | content 

fEBRUARY 2012 

contentwelcome 14 

Favorites 18 

health 20 

spotlight 24 

beauty 26 

inspirations 30 

cravings 36 

30 

EMILY BROWN 

Emily Brown’s mission for the bride-to-be is simple, yet heartfelt: give the customer an experience that 

they can hold on to and cherish for the rest of their lives. As owner of EmilyHart Bridal, she strives to 

have her brides stand out from the crowd by designing, creating and selling one-of-a-kind gowns. Stitch 

this together with top-notch customer service and Kansas City has a go-to bridal shop like no other. Emily 

chats with HERLIFE about how her passion found her, and her new and exclusive wedding gown line called 

Emmaline. 

culinary 40 

recipes 44 

wine 46 

spotlight 48 

book club 52 

scene and be seen 54 

spotlight 72 

mother’s perspective 76 

green living 80 

40 

Seasonings and spices for winter 

With winter comes the yearning for food, which 

brings overall comfort and warmth to those who 

eat it. We retreat into our kitchens, hoping to 

provide our family with a meal that will “stick to 

their ribs,” bringing them warmth from the inside 

out. Hearty rich dishes, full of flavor and made with 

spices and seasonings reminiscent of the season, 

adorn our tables as we gather together. 

26 

Why Wedding Dresses Are White 

and Other Wedding Traditions 

Whether your wedding bells are echoes from the 

distant past, still pealing in your newlywed ears, or 

softly chiming in your future, one thing’s for sure— 

you will always remember your wedding as the day 

you embarked upon a lifetime of love—togetherness 

and occasional befuddlement about why your 

beloved spouse does the things he or she does. 

fine things 84 

spotlight 86 

trendsetter 90 

Working WOmen 98 

Finance 102 

Home 106 

Real Estate 110 

travel 114 

pets for people 118 

Just Sayin’ 122 

HERLIFE Hottie 124 

tie the knot 126 

In the city 142 

star journeys 148 



herlife | welcome 

Precious Moments 

W 

ith this being our bridal issue and Valentine’s Day 

being celebrated this month, it’s no surprise that love 

comes to my mind! Of course, when I hear that word, 

my thoughts immediately go to my husband and kids, and the precious 

memories I have shared with them over the past years and 

continue to make with them daily. 

It all began in October 1999 at a fraternity house at Washburn 

University. I still remember the moment I saw Kimble—I thought he 

was darling. Still to this day, he reminds me that he doesn’t remember 

seeing me that evening. I told him after 12 years—he really should lie! 

However, he does remember meeting me again the next morning bright 

and early at our eight o’clock college algebra class. Of course, after a fun 

night out, I looked terrible and was wearing a sweatshirt with no makeup 

and my hair up in a ponytail. I remember thinking, “This is just my 

luck!” He sat behind me and we ended up talking after class. Our first 

date quickly followed and pretty soon we were inseparable. We dated for 

two years before he proposed and then had a two-year engagement. 

When our wedding day finally arrived, my best memory was when 

we walked into our reception. They announced Mr. & Mrs. Aydelotte 

for the first time and Kimble’s fist went up in the air as we walked in. We 

were very lucky that memory got captured on camera. I remember thinking 

then how lucky I was then and after so many happy years together, I 

still think I am very lucky! 

One of the most precious moments of my entire life was the first 

time I saw Peyton open her eyes. I fell in love so hard. I felt guilty 

photo by heather morrow 

because when they laid her on my chest for the first time, I remember 

thinking, “She’s cute,” but I don’t think I thought I was in love until 

about 15 seconds later when she opened her eyes. At that moment, I 

knew we would be best friends. I’ve had a million more precious moments with her since then and we continue to have them daily! 

With Griffin, it was a little different. I remember being excited to be pregnant and I think I fell in love with him while I was carrying him. 

I know it sounds a little funny, but the minute they told me it was going to be a boy, I knew I was going to have a mini-Kimble and that he was 

exactly what we needed to complete our little family. He couldn’t be more different from Peyton and I love that. I never imagined I would have 

the most affectionate, funny, blonde-haired, blue-eyed little guy! I couldn’t have picked out a more perfect boy if I tried! 

While Valentine’s Day quickly approaches, enjoy the precious moments that life gives you! 

Lindsay Aydelotte 

keep connected with us 

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® 

Staff and Contacts 

Publisher 

Lindsay Aydelotte 

lindsay@herlifemagazine.com 

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 

candi@herlifemagazine.com 

Creative Director 

Casey Jones 

casey@herlifemagazine.com 

913-402-6994 

Design and Production 

Todd Grantham 

todd@herlifemagazine.com 

913-402-6994 

Art Director 

Elana Bell 

elana@herlifemagazine.com 

913-402-6994 

Contributing Authors 

Lisa Allen, Chandra Blackwell, 

Kristen Doyle, Kathleen M. Krueger, 

Jenny Matthews, Linda Maranno, 

Kelly Jo McDonnell, Charity Ohlund, 

Linda R. Price, Elizabeth Rosenberger, 

John Sandbach, Candi Smith, Catie Watson, 

Marilyn Wright, Laura Wynn 

Contributing Photographers 

Kami Brady, David Bickley, Chris Campbell, 

Allyson Cheney, Cy Dodson, Kristen Doyle, 

Kelli Higgins, Philip Meiring, 

Heather Morrow, Peep Toe Photography, 

Tracy Routh, Rpm Photography and 

Cinematography, Rue2photography, 

Brooke Vandever 

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 

© 2012 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 HERLIFE Magazine, LLC 

and is a free publication distributed locally and is supported 

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locations. Please call for a location near you or if you would 

like copies placed at your business. 

We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the 

articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the 

products and services advertised. We welcome your ideas, 

articles and feedback. 

SUBSCRIPTIONS 

Subscriptions are available for $20 (for 12 issues). Please go 

to www.herlifemagazine.com or mail a check made out to 

HERLIFE ® Magazine, to the above address. 


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herlife | favorites 

Staff Picks 

Beauty secrets...everyone has at least one staple beauty regimen to make her or him look fabulous. With wedding 

season approaching, what better time to start refining your beauty habits. The HERLIFE staff decided to share some of 

our favorite beauty secrets. Shh... 

Rose Salve 

I cannot live without my rose salve. It comes in a little portable 

tin and is especially great in the winter! It has real rose extract and 

can be used for so many things! I use it for my lips, cuticles, dry skin 

and I even put some on my eyelashes every night! It is a must-have in 

every girl’s purse! 

- Brandy Barrish, Account Executive 

big hair 

I love big hair! That’s why before I start 

styling my hair, I use Root to Top by REF. 

The easy-to-use spray mousse creates an 

instant lift after blowdrying. For a bigger root 

boost, try blowdrying hair the opposite 

direction. It’s a woman’s must-have! 

- Casey Jones, 

Creative Director 

Jasmine Vanilla Sugar Scrub 

During the winter, my skin is so dried out. I use a jasmine 

vanilla sugar scrub from Bath and Body Works that makes it smooth 

as silk. 

Biore pads 

- Doris Sarver, Account Executive 

Biore pads are the most disgustingly, awesome invention ever! 

- Todd Grantham, Design & Production 

spray tan 

I love to spray tan year round! I think 

if you have fair skin like I do, then it 

really makes my skin look healthier and it 

doesn’t hurt that it makes me look a few 

pounds lighter after the holidays! 

I have found the perfect color combination 

at Celsius Tannery and I try to make it in 

weekly! 

- Lindsay Aydelotte, 

Publisher 


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herlife | health 

How To Identify and Combat Household 

Mold and Mildew 

by candi smith 

Have you ever walked into someone’s home and immediately recognized a dank smell 

similar to one you find in antique shop, reminiscent of things that have been hidden 

away in attics and basements for a very long time? Well, believe it or not, fungus growing 

in one’s home has nothing to do the length of time it’s been there. It’s all about moisture 

and the circumstances that allow mold and mildew to grow, often in a relatively short amount of 

time. 

First off, it’s helpful to know the differences between mold and mildew. Mold is a fungus 

that grows in a form that looks like filaments. It is usually fuzzy in appearance, and varies in 

color from orange, green, black, brown, pink or purple. Mildew is actually a form of mold 

which grows flatly and is usually downy or powdery. Downy mildew starts out yellow in color, 

and then eventually fades to brown. Powdery mildew starts whitish in color, then becomes yellowish 

brown, and eventually turns black. 

Mold has been proven to cause health problems such as allergic reactions and respiratory 

problems due to the toxins it releases. Mold derives its energy from food and other organic 

products, and its spores are released into the air. It’s hardy and virulent, and able to survive in 

extreme conditions. By the time a person smells a musty odor and is able to see the mold, it’s 

already cultivated into colonies with its spores. 

Mildew usually causes more harm to 

plants and crops than humans, but it’s been 

proven that the inhalation of mildew causes 

headaches, lung problems, coughing and a 

scratchy throat. It can grow just about anywhere 

that moisture content is high such as 

clothing, leather, shower curtains, paper and 

window sills. 

Both mold and mildew are the result of 

moisture, so it’s important to keep your home 

dry and moisture-free. This can be accomplished 

by using a dehumidifier, removing 

perishable foods within three to four days, or 

By the time a person 

smells a musty odor 

and is able to see 

the mold, it’s already 

cultivated into colonies 

with its spores. 

by purchasing mildew removers at a hardware 

store. Areas in the home that are prone 

to collect moisture are those where plants 

are grown, basements and cold areas which 

harbor condensation. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control, 

individuals who are prone to allergies, 

who have asthma or other respiratory illnesses, 


or those with compromised autoimmune systems should avoid outdoor 

areas such as compost piles, grass cuttings and wooded areas. Indoors, 

they should keep their home’s humidity levels between 40 and 60 

percent, and ensure that showers and cooking areas are well-ventilated. 

If you find mold growth in your home, the source of the water problem 

Both mold and mildew are 

the result of moisture, so it’s 

important to keep your home 

dry and moisture-free. 

should be fixed and the mold removed with a bleach solution of one 

cup of bleach per one gallon of water. Ensure that you open doors and 

windows to provide fresh air while cleaning, wear non-porous gloves 

and protective eyewear, and don’t mix the bleach solution with any 

other type of cleaner. 

Further recommendations for preventing and reducing the chance 

of mold in your home include using your air conditioner during 

humid months; cleaning bathrooms with mold-killing products; adding 

mold inhibitors to paint before applying; ensuring you have proper 

exhaust fans and ventilation; not installing carpet in bathrooms and 

basements; and removing or replacing previously water-soaked carpets 

Continued on next page 


and upholstery. 

Finally, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency emphasizes 

that since there are literally thousands of types of mold spores, there 

is no way to prevent getting them in your home. However, what you 

can do is control moisture so that the spores don’t grow into colonies. 

It’s important to dry water-damaged areas and items within 48 hours 

to prevent mold growth. If you find that absorbent materials such as 

ceiling tiles or flooring have been soaked by moisture, replace those 

items immediately. Prevent condensation in your home (often found 

on pipes, exterior walls, floors and roofs) by adding extra insulation. 

And be aware of the many things you can do to control moisture inside 

your home. These include taking shorter showers to reduce steam; 

always using your exhaust fan when cooking; landscaping to ensure 

that water runs away from your home; cleaning your gutters to prevent 

seepage in your basement; ventilate crawlspaces while at the same time 

covering any dirt to prevent water coming in from the ground; vent 

your clothes dryer to the outside; use area rugs (which can be washed 

often) versus carpeting when possible to avoid mold growth where it 

can’t be detected; caulk windows and install storm windows to raise the 

temperature of cold surfaces where moisture condenses; and, increase 

air circulation by the use of ceiling fans and moving your furniture 

away from wall corners. ■ 

Sources used in this article include: diffen.com, cdc.gov and 

epa.gov. 



herlife | spotlight 

When I was a kid, I usually only 

went to the dentist when it was 

an emergency, and I had to 

be dragged kicking and screaming. Thankfully, 

children’s dental care has come a long 

way thanks to compassionate dentists like 

Dr. Glenn Hemberger, D.D.S., M.S., in 

Overland Park. Dr Hemberger has a passion 

for pediatric dentistry evident in both his 

business and personal life. 

His credentials speak for themselves. He 

was the recipient of the prestigious Kansas 

Dentists of the Year 2010 Award; has served 

as Secretary, Vice-President and President of 

the Kansas Dental Association; received the 

Humanitarian Award from the Kansas Fifth 

District Dental Society; and was currently appointed 

by the Governor of Kansas to serve as 

a member of the Kansas Dental Board. 

“I love kids and it’s a 

privilege to deliver the 

highest quality of dental 

health treatment.” 

Dr. Glenn Hemberger Dentistry 

for Children and Adolescents in Overland Park 

by candi smith | photography by kelli higgins of studio k photography 

But one of the causes close to his heart is 

acting as the Pediatric Dental Coordinator 

for the Kansas Mission of Mercy since its 

inception in 2002. Dr. Hemberger enthused, 

“I’m fortunate to work for the Kansas Mission 

of Mercy. They have delivered millions of 

dollars of dental care over the past ten years 

to those in need. Two days a year, we open 

a dental clinic that only involves giving your 

heart, soul and talent to those less fortunate. 

We’ve offered these clinics all over the 

state of Kansas, and this year I’ll be cochairman 

of the Kansas Mission of Mercy to 

be held in Kansas City, Kansas, on February 

17-18, 2012. I’m already excited!” 

Dr. Hemberger’s staff is equally proud 

about the mission of their office and how 

they help young people foster a lifetime of 

proper dental care. Dr. Hemberger’s team 

includes Dr. Emily Drake, American Board 

Certified Pediatric Dentist, four registered 

dental hygienists, four dental assistants and 


“Parents are responsible for 

ensuring their children practice 

good dental hygiene. Parents must 

introduce proper oral care early 

in a child’s life—as early as infancy.” 

two administrative personnel. Dr. Hemberger boasts, “I love kids and 

it’s a privilege to deliver the highest quality of dental health treatment. 

My favorite part of my job is the everyday relationships we build with 

the families we serve.” 

Dr. Hemberger’s number one goal is to promote early preventive 

care and emphasizes that a child’s first dental check-up should start as 

early as age one to prevent disease. He added, “It’s an honor to work 

with children as they are a joy that matches my passion for dentistry. 

The kids are very receptive and form a bond of trust at a young 

age, and I’ve designed my dental office specifically for children with a 

kid-friendly dinosaur theme on the walls, artwork and even the waiting 

room ceiling! We also have flat screen TVs above the treatment chairs, 

computers and vibrant colors to make the children feel at ease. Additionally, 

we are excited to introduce a new program to create awareness 

to preventive dental healthcare for children at an early age called 

‘Kids Oral Health Camp.’ This is a perfect opportunity for organized 

groups of parents of young children, preschool and elementary teachers, 

scout leaders, etc., to offer an oral health educational program 

to their students either in the classroom or a field trip to our office. 

Interested groups can call our office for details.” 

Dr. Hemberger shared, “Cavities are an infectious, transmissible 

dental disease that is preventable, and are one of the most common 

problems I see. I treat a lot of tooth injuries caused by sports trauma 

and falls, so I have medical staff privileges at both Children’s Mercy 

Hospital and Overland Park Regional Hospital. These privileges allow 

me to perform comprehensive dental treatment to any child, regardless 

of age and or special needs, which cannot receive treatment performed 

in a routine office environment.” Some other services offered 

by Dr. Hemberger’s office include fillings, sealants, cleanings, fluoride 

treatments and orthodontics. 

Dr. Hemberger emphasized, “Parents are responsible for ensuring 

their children practice good dental hygiene. Parents must introduce 

proper oral care early in a child’s life—as early as infancy. As caregivers, 

parents must be aware that dental disease may be transmissible to 

their children. It is important not to share toothbrushes, utensils, etc., 

with your children. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry 

and The American Dental Hygiene Association state that a good oral 

hygiene routine for children includes: thoroughly cleaning your infant’s 

gums after each feeding with a soft cloth; teaching your child at 

age three about proper brushing techniques with a small, soft-bristled 

toothbrush and only a pea-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste and 

later teaching them brushing and gentle flossing; regular visits with 

their dentist; encouraging your child to discuss any fears they may have 

about oral health visits; determining if the water supply that serves 

your home is fluoridated and if not, discussing supplement options 

with your dentist; and, asking your dentist about sealant applications to 

protect your child’s teeth-chewing surfaces.” ■ 

You can contact Dr. Hemberger at 913-345-0331, visit their office at 

8575 W. 110th Street, Suite 310 in Overland Park or check out their web 

site at hembergerpediatricdental.com. 


herlife | beauty 

Goin’ to the Chapel of Love, 

Potential Danger and 

Flying Bouquets: 

Why Wedding 

Dresses Are 

White and Other 

Wedding Traditions 

by chandra blackwell 

Whether your wedding bells are 

echoes from the distant past, 

still pealing in your newlywed 

ears, or softly chiming in your future, one 

thing’s for sure—you will always remember 

your wedding as the day you embarked upon a 

lifetime of love—togetherness and occasional 

befuddlement about why your beloved spouse 

does the things he or she does. But did you 

ever stop to wonder why we do the things we 

do at the wedding itself? How certain wedding 

traditions came about? Some of the answers 

may surprise you, but most of these traditions– 

just like love itself–have stood the test of time: 

All Dressed in White 

Prior to the mid-19th century, a bride’s 

attire was simply the best clothing she owned, 

in any color. Whereas today, the “layered 

look” isn’t something we normally associate 

with a wedding, a bride in those days often 

piled on layers of fur, silk and velvet, in order 

to convince her husband-to-be that she came 

from a well-to-do family. Then in 1840, Eng- 

land’s Queen Victoria stepped out in a white 

gown trimmed with orange blossoms for her 

wedding to Prince Albert, thereby becoming 

well-known not only for representing an era of 

emphasis on morals, modesty and decorum, 

but also for influencing the fashion choices of 

brides for centuries to come. From that point 

on, ivory-clad brides abounded, and white 

became the color of choice for weddings (and, 

ultimately, P. Diddy parties) the world over. 

Something Old, 

Something New 

Queen Victoria’s influence on weddings 

didn’t stop at the dress, however; the Victorian 

era also spawned the famous (and poetic) 

tradition whereby a bride wears certain items 

which, combined, are said to bring good luck. 

The “something old” forever links the bride 

to her past and to her family (even oddball 

Cousin Eddie, who took to wearing smoking 

jackets in fifth grade), while the “something 

new” represents a new life with a new family 

(weirdos included, but hopefully only 

encountered on Thanksgiving). The borrowed 

item, if loaned by an already-happily-married 

wife, is said to grant a bit of good marriage 

mojo to the new bride. The color blue represents 

a host of qualities ideal for a successful 

marriage, like faithfulness and loyalty—but 

also, by coincidence, matches the color of the 

The borrowed item, if 

loaned by an alreadyhappily-married 

wife, 

is said to grant a bit of 

good marriage mojo 

to the new bride. 

ocean, which represents an ideal honeymoon 

spot. And finally, the penny (originally a sixpence) 

in the bride’s shoe is, of course, said to 

bring the newlyweds good fortune—and thus 

the means to finance that ocean view. 


Groomsmen and 

Bridesmaids 

Today, the men and women granted 

the honor of standing up next to the bride 

and groom on the blessed day take on a great 

deal of responsibility: hosting showers and 

throwing bachelor(ette) parties, delivering 

heartfelt and crowd-pleasing toasts at the 

reception, and flying to the rescue in the 

event of an 11th--hour wardrobe malfunction. 

Originally, however, the guy who served as a 

groom’s Best Man was also required to be a 

partner in crime—literally (and not just in a 

“What Happens in Vegas” sort of way). Back 

in the days when it was more common for a 

groom to take a bride by force than to smile 

and sweat his way through an uncomfortable 

dinner in an attempt to win the favor of her 

parents, the Best Man’s role was to assist the 

groom in kidnapping his bride. In this scenario, 

then, the “best” part of the Best Man 

title was more about his superior skills with 

weapons than it was about lifelong friendship 

or willingness to help the groom build a new 

backyard deck. 

Similarly, the women chosen by the 

bride to be her wedding attendants were 

required more for physical protection than 

for moral and emotional support. Whereas 

these days a bridesmaid’s dress for the special 

day generally morphs her into a clone of her 

fellow bridesmaids, its original purpose was to 

morph her (along with the other bridesmaids) 

into a clone of the bride. That way, any evil 

spirits or jealous former suitors would have a 

hard time distinguishing the bride from the 

other ladies, thereby failing at any plans to 

kidnap or hurl stones at her. 

Bouquet and Garter Toss 

In ancient times—even before brides 

started wearing rhyming items as good luck 

wedding day talismans—a bride was considered 

especially lucky on her wedding day. So 

lucky, in fact, that wedding guests would tear 

off parts of her dress as good luck talismans 

for themselves. Generally, a bride did not 

plan to wear her wedding dress again, anyway 

(although unlike today’s brides, she did not 

have the option to have it hermetically sealed 



So it seems that a good 

number of well-known wedding 

traditions sprung from the 

fact that what we now know 

as a blessed occasion used 

to be pretty dangerous business! 

and preserved for eternity). However, as you can imagine, it was still 

moderately unpleasant to have it ripped bit by bit from her body by 

wedding guests. As an alternative, then, the bride began throwing 

personal articles—such as her bouquet and garter—to the crowd in 

order to appease luck-grubbing guests and keep her attire intact. (And 

to think that these days, we consider it rude when a wedding guest fails 

to RSVP on time!) 

So it seems that a good number of well-known wedding traditions 

sprung from the fact that what we now know as a blessed occasion 

used to be pretty dangerous business! Luckily, we don’t seem to have 

those issues now—the most dangerous element of most weddings is the 

potential for an injury involving high heels and a conga line—but still, 

it never hurts to honor tradition and possibly earn Fortune’s favor in 

the process. ■ 

Sources: aomdj.com, yourwedding101.com, wedding.theknot.com, 

articles.cnn.com, pibweddings.com and brideandgroom.com. 



herlife | inspirations 

“Our whole journey to the altar is over this beautiful, 

emotional, lifelong path, from playing dress-up as a 

child, to falling in love, to walking down the aisle in 

that thrilling, final moment as a single woman.” 


y elizabeth rosenberger 

photography by philip meiring/kdog photographers 

hair by alli cox of double take salon and spa 

makeup by melissa evans 

model simone lewis of exposure, inc. 

Designing Dreams for 

the Bride with Hart 

I 

t’s one of the most important days of a girl’s life—her 

wedding day. And the most important purchase she’ll 

make is her wedding gown. In that single moment, 

wearing a gown that captures the heart of all in attendance is the 

heartbeat of every bride. All eyes are riveted on her as she is escorted 

down the aisle. Her mother is wiping tears from her eyes and dear old 

dad is bawling like a baby…on the inside anyway. 

With Emily Brown, owner of EmilyHart Bridal, she has that 

unique gown for that special moment (Hart taken from her grandmother’s 

maiden name). She’s a sister, mother, best friend and 

counselor all rolled into one when it comes to shopping for a bridal 

gown. That’s what sets EmilyHart Bridal apart from your run-of-themill 

bridal shop—her personal investment in wanting you to look and 

feel your best on that momentous day, mixed with her passion to help 

each bride-to-be have the best shopping experience, and a memory to 

cherish for a lifetime. 

Emily explains, “As a woman in a woman’s business, I get it. We 

are relationally motivated and emotionally driven. Our whole journey 

to the altar is over this beautiful, emotional, lifelong path, from playing 

dress-up as a child, to falling in love, to walking down the aisle in 

that thrilling, final moment as a single woman. Purchasing a gown for 

the day that most of us have been thinking about since we were little 

girls is nothing less than emotional.” 

Recently, EmilyHart Bridal won the 2011 Existing Business of 

the Year for her region. The award is created to recognize the “Best 

of the Best” in the small-and-medium sized business sector, honoring 

the achievements and accomplishments of owners in industries and 

categories from around the world. She was asked how she measures 

success. 

“The truth is I measure success by the thank-you notes, testimoni- 


als and referrals that I receive on a daily basis from my happy customers. 

Without these more than satisfied customers, EmilyHart would 

shrivel up and die.” 

Emily says that unless you are in the bridal business on the front 

lines, dealing with emotionally spent brides who are usually working 

full-time, possibly in school and planning a huge day, one will never 

know the full extent of her job. 

“We are therapists, overcoming all kinds of obstacles from 

insecurities to difficult family members,” she says. “This isn’t like 

any other purchase these ladies have made so far. They bring mom, 

sisters, friends and even dads sometimes. When you come to Emily- 

Hart, you are treated like family, like we were just thinking about you 

before you walked in the door. The first appointment with us marks 

the start of a friendship, a relationship that can last over a year. My 

job brings me life; it gives me energy and reminds me that there are 

wonderful relationships to be had with strangers who can become 

close friends.” 

Emily adds that in today’s world where most purchases can be 

made online with a mouse-click or where you can go an entire day 

without talking to anyone, except through texting and Facebook, 

fantastic customer service is rare to find. But Emily and her staff is 

dedicated to providing unforgettable customer service. Her mission: 

to not only give the customer an experience they can hold onto and 

cherish, but to employ individuals in an atmosphere of honesty and 

integrity. Her saleswomen are not paid on commission, so there is 

no high-pressure selling or trying to talk a hopeful bride into buying 

a dress she won’t be happy with. Emily says she is honored to be surrounded 

with such a wonderful staff and humbly admits that they are 

responsible for the success of EmilyHart. 

“My staff feels like my family and when you come in to my shop, 

you will have a wonderful experience no matter who you work with,” 

Emily adds. “If you don’t find what you are looking for in our store, we 

know that the experience at our shop will be one that is enjoyed. We 

offer unparalleled customer service whether you leave with a dress or 

not. And actually, my favorite thank-you notes are from girls that have 

found and purchased their gown elsewhere, but write to tell us how 

much they enjoyed their time at our shop!” 

Emily employs in-house seamstresses to handle the alteration 

process and the shop only carries gowns that are exclusive to her business, 

because she wants the bride to be wearing a one-of-a-kind gown. 

But most notably is her own line of gowns that she designs and makes 

herself rightfully titled ‘Emmaline.’ 

“When you come to EmilyHart, 

you are treated like family, like we 

were just thinking about you before 

you walked in the door. The first 

appointment with us marks the 

start of a friendship, a relationship 

that can last over a year.” 

“We introduced our new line to our store last spring and they are 

taking off!” she exclaims. “They are made from the finest silk fabrics 

and simplistic, yet beautiful silhouettes. With this new addition to 

the shop, I am also able to design custom gowns for women who are 

having a hard time finding exactly what they want. Next spring we are 

introducing a new line of mother’s gowns as well made from beautiful, 

quality fabrics.” 

Located at 4800 West 135th Street, Suite 240 in Leawood, 

EmilyHart Bridal is a ‘one stop shop.’ Besides bridal gowns, they carry 

bridesmaids, mother’s gowns and flower girl dresses. They also carry 

accessories such as veils, headpieces, jewelry and belts, rent tuxes and 

can help with invitations. 

But when Emily was in college, becoming a bridal shop owner 

wasn’t at the top of her list, in fact, it wasn’t on her list at all; her first 

love is interior design. Her original plan was to open an interior design 

studio and gift shop. She had even gone as far as renting a shop, buying 

the inventory and painting the walls. One day while dress shopping 

with a girlfriend and Emily’s mom at Sandy’s Bridal in Paola, Kansas, 

Emily’s passion found her. Little did Emily know, Sandy wanted to sell 

the shop and within a month, Emily owned EmilyHart Bridal, previously 

Sandy’s Bridal. 



“I believe firmly that our vision, hearts’ 

desire and talents all come together 

to form our purpose.” 

“I prayed and prayed about it and then decided, why not?” she 

asks herself. “Knowing nothing at all, I bought a bridal shop in a tiny 

town with a great reputation and a gravel parking lot.” 

In July 2010, Emily moved the shop to Leawood and has 

watched her business expand in more ways than she ever dreamed 

they could. “My faith played a big role in the leap to Leawood,” she 

admits. “But just like every step I took, I took by faith and the Lord 

always came through, reminding me time after time that this move 

was one that He was blessing. When I tell people how I ended up 

where I have, I tell them that it was entirely the Lord. I listened, followed 

my intuition and waited for Him to move. Then I went along 

for the ride.” 

Today, in Emily’s chic and upscale shop, pink hues and black 

and ivory accents enhance the warm wood flooring. Floor to ceiling 

mirrors, comfortable couches and comfy sitting areas are complemented 

by five large private dressing areas. And most importantly, the 

warm and engaging personality of Emily Brown, wanting to see every 

girl’s dream turn into reality for that perfect day. 

In August 2008, Emily married the love of her life, Jovan Brown. 

She says he is her biggest fan and has been her life support the past 

four years. They have an 18-month-old son named Legend and a new 

addition born in January, a son named Roman. 

“It’s been a whirlwind ride, these past years, with a new marriage, 

moving businesses and homes and having babies, but an experience 

that has taught me so much about myself and caused me to grow in 

all sorts of ways,” Emily says. “I believe firmly that our vision, hearts’ 

desire and talents all come together to form our purpose. I found my 

purpose in a small-town bridal shop and I can’t wait to see where the 

Lord takes me next!” ■ 

For more information about EmilyHart Bridal, visit 

emilyhartbridal.com or call 913-681-1500 or email 

Emily@emilyhartbridal.com. 



herlife | cravings 

The Farmhouse 

Local, sustainable, ethical, farm-raised, seasonal whole food. 

by charity ohlund | photography by brooke vandever 


I’m going to use some words in this article 

that some Americans have been duped 

into thinking of as alternative, trendy, 

uppity, hippyish or even downright political. 

So brace yourself. Ready? Here goes: Local, 

sustainable, ethical, farm-raised, seasonal 

whole food. 

Now wait. This isn’t just another story 

about some restaurant “buying local” because 

it’s trending on Twitter right now. Don’t turn 

the page, or you might miss out (and I don’t 

say this casually) on one of the best restaurants 

you’ve never heard of. 

Something very special has been going 

down on the corner of 3rd and Delaware in 

Kansas City’s River Market neighborhood 

since 2009. That’s when chef and owner 

Michael Foust opened The Farmhouse after 

a lifetime culinary education that began with 

eating escargot at age six, graduating from 

the Western Culinary Institute in Portland, 

Oregon, in 1996, and embarking on a worldwide 

cooking lesson that took him to France, 

New York and Hawaii, soaking up skills under 

killer chefs like Michael Romano and Chen 

Kenichi. 

Michael describes The Farmhouse as his 

graduation project. “Everything I do is pretty 

rustic,” Michael says. “The visual presentation 

is beautiful in Michelin restaurants, 

but I want my food to be approachable. It’s 

Midwest French.” 

But after spending just a few minutes 

with Michael, it’s obvious that The Farmhouse 

is more than simply a project or a 

business. The Farmhouse is a way of life and 

a labor of love. Literally. 

Michael is not just cooking up local 

beef, chicken, pork and duck. He partners 

with local farms, like Windhaven Farm of 

Holt, Missouri, to actually breed and raise the 

food that arrives on your plate. He does his 

own butchering right there in the kitchen. 

“I’ve been working with Alan at 

Windhaven Farm on getting just the right 

breed of pig,” Michael says. “We started with 

Berkshire. They have sweet meat but are 

terrible mothers and just drop their piglets 

to starve. So now we are looking at getting 

the sweetness of the Berkshire combined 

with the smarts and unique flavor of the Red 

Wattle breed,” Michael says. “Oh, and Alan’s 

12-year-old son, Jake, is in charge of our duck 

program.” 

I don’t know much about mothering a 

piglet (well I’m raising two boys, so maybe I 

do), but when I tasted the Pork Osso Bucco 

with Roasted Root Vegetables, any notions 

that responsible food means bland or boring 

food were permanently banished as I melted 

into my chair. Combine the perfection of a 

French pan sauce with the unadulterated joy 

of meat falling off the bone and wrap that all 

up with The Farmhouse’s cozy, urban ambiance, 

and I felt like someone had wrapped 

me in a Snuggie, rubbed my feet and plopped 

me next to a crackling fireplace. This place is 

transcendently yummy. 

A quick perusal of the bar menu distracted 

me for a moment with tantalizing Lamb 

Souvlaki Meatballs with Romesco and a local 

Beef Burger with Fries, both for under $10. 

Smoked Duck Breast and Braised Thigh 

with Roasted Sun Chokes and Yellow Cauliflower 

featured young Jake’s duck paired with 

Michael’s signature presentation that allows 

the food to do the talking. 

“I like to think of things very simply,” 

Michael says. “I hate gray areas. Once we 

started thinking we were smarter than Mother 

Nature, we got way off course.” 

As I walked back down Delaware, 

arguably one of Kansas City’s most beautiful 

streets, I couldn’t help but wonder how we got 

to this point where real, local food is seen as 

alternative and fast-food “taco meat filling” is 

normal. Soy lecithin, autolyzed yeast extract, 

caramel color and silicon dioxide? Now that’s 

alternative. 

If you are someone who thinks the local 

The Farmhouse is a way of life 

and a labor of love. 


and “real” food movement is something only for people who listen to 

Bob Marley and eat tofu for breakfast, then your grandparents must 

have been very ahead of their time. Michael and his local army of 38 

farmers are today’s reverse pioneers who hope to bring us all back from 

our high-fructose comas. 

“This is my home. I love Kansas City,” Michael says. “And Kansas 

City people deserve what we can give them. This is a bigger picture 

than just me and The Farmhouse. These are all locals that have immense 

talent. We do what we do because it’s the right thing to do. And 

because it tastes amazing.” ■ 

The Farmhouse is located at 300 Delaware, Kansas City, MO 

64105. Hours: Mon – Tue: 11 a.m. – 3 

p.m.; Wed – Fri: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. and 

5 – 10 p.m.; Fri: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. and 5 

– 11 p.m.; Sat: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. and 5 – 

11 p.m.; Sun: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. For more 

information, call 816-569-6032 or visit 

EatAtTheFarmhouse.com. 

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 executive chef 

husband. Her food and restaurant writing has been published in Reader's Digest and KC Magazine and on Frothy- 

Girlz.com and Yahoo.com. Charity graduated from the University of Kansas with a journalism degree in 1998. She 

worked for Fairmont Hotels and Resorts in Scottsdale and Chicago as head concierge. Moving to KC in 2006, 

Charity was wowed (and grateful) to find that the culinary scene holds its own against bigger cities. She worked 

at The Capital Grille in KC for several years as a server. The Food Network is the background noise in her house. 



herlife | culinary 

Seasonings and Spices 

for Winter 

by kristen doyle 

With winter comes the yearning for food, which brings 

overall comfort and warmth to those who eat it. We 

retreat into our kitchens, hoping to provide our family 

with a meal that will “stick to their ribs,” bringing them warmth from 

the inside out. Hearty rich dishes, full of flavor and made with spices 

and seasonings reminiscent of the season, adorn our tables as we gather 

together. 

There are certain spices and seasonings associated with the winter 

season. We draw on their use to provide essence to our favorite comfort 

foods, add them to our most beloved winter beverages and use candles 

reminiscent of their aroma to bring us refuge from the harsh temperatures 

outside. 

Among the most common winter spices and seasonings, cinnamon, 

ginger, cloves and special seasoning blends, seem to be firmly 

associated with the season, making appearances in many of the recipes 

we associate with winter. 

Ginger 

Ginger can be found in many recipes during the winter season. 

Ginger, in both the dried and fresh root form, is a spice routinely 

found in both sweet and savory recipes this time of year. Gingersnap 

cookies and gingerbread treats are included in many cookie jars. 

Pumpkin and apple pie recipes count on ginger to bring an added 

dimension of flavor to them. On the savory side, ginger is often added 

to hearty curries, stir-fry recipes and marinades. 

Cinnamon 

From your morning toast and tea to homemade cookies baking in 

your oven, there is probably no other spice as widely recognized to give 

flavor to seasonal cooking as cinnamon. Cinnamon is commonly used 

in baking but can also be found giving an unexpected hint of flavor to 

chili, winter roasted vegetables and savory meat dishes. 

Cloves 

Grandma will tell you that the baked ham just isn’t complete 

40 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 

Continued on page 42


Experience You Trust, 

Results You Want 

without the addition of cloves. Cloves are a spice you might be surprised 

to find in many of your winter dishes. A small amount of cloves 

will go a long way to enhance recipes like mulled apple cider, marinara 

sauce and savory glazes. Cloves are also used in table decorations, 

such as orange pomander. 

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Herbes de Provence 

Herbes de Provence is a savory seasoning blend which gives flavor 

to winter favorites like chicken noodle soup, roast chicken and white 

chicken chili. Made up of a blend of common seasonings, Herbes de 

Provence consists of familiar herbs like oregano, thyme, nutmeg, basil 

and more. 

Although it may be tempting to buy a premade version of Herbes 

de Provence at your local supermarket, it is a seasoning blend that can 

easily be made at home. Plenty of recipes offer up their own version 

of Herbes de Provence. Use the recipes you find as a guide and adjust 

the seasoning blend to meet your personal taste preference. Make up 

a batch and keep it on hand for easy addition to your favorite savory 

comfort foods. 

Prepared cooks always keep these spices and seasonings on hand 

during the cold winter months, in order to be prepared to create 

favorite winter dishes at a moment’s notice. Adding just a touch here or 

there to your favorite dishes can turn an ordinary recipe into something 

people rave about. ■ 



herlife | recipes 

Red Beans and Rice 

recipes and photos by kristen doyle 

Ingredients: 

1 tablespoon olive oil 

2 stalks of celery, sliced 

1 medium onion, chopped 

2 garlic cloves, minced 

1 3/4 cup chicken broth 

1 (15 ounce) can light red kidney 

beans, rinsed and drained 

1 (16 ounce) can dark red kidney 

beans, drained and rinsed 

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning 

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper 

flakes 

1/4 teaspoon Creole seasoning 

1/4 teaspoon pepper 

1/4 pound fully cooked smoked 

sausage, cut into 1/2 inch rounds 

4 cups hot cooked rice 

Instructions: 

1. Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and 

heat through. Sauté celery, onion and garlic until tender. Add broth, 

beans, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, Creole seasoning and 

pepper. Bring to a boil; reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered, for 10 

minutes, stirring occasionally. 

2. Remove about 1-1/2 cups of bean mixture and mash. Return to 

skillet. Add sausage; bring to a boil. Boil for 5 minutes or until bean 

mixture reaches desired thickness. Serve over rice. ■ 


Beef Tostadas 

Ingredients: 

4 Tablespoons vegetable oil 

8 fajita-sized flour tortillas 

1 15oz can refried beans 

1 pound lean ground beef 

3 Tablespoons prepared taco meat 

seasoning 

1/4 cup warm water 

Instructions: 

1 can Bush’s Black Beans, drained 

4 cups chopped, loose lettuce 

(we like to use a simple Spring mix) 

1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded 

1 cup mild cheddar cheese, shredded 

1 small tomato, diced 

1 avocado, diced 

1. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Heat until bubbly, but not smoking. 

2. One at a time, fry tortillas in the oil, watching carefully as to not burn. Fry each 

tortilla until puffy and light brown, approximately 30 seconds on each side. Remove 

from pan and lay on paper towels to absorb the extra oil. Set aside. 

3. Cook refried beans over medium heat. Heat until warm and cooked through. 

4. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet. Once cooked add 1/4 cup warm water, 

3 tablespoons of taco seasoning and the can of black beans. Stir continuously, 

increasing heat until mixture comes to a slow boil. Remove from heat. 

5. For each tortilla: spread a thin layer of refried beans on the cooked tortilla, top 

with hamburger / black bean mixture, a small handful of lettuce, a pinch of Monterey 

Jack cheese, a pinch of cheddar cheese, diced tomato and diced avocado. 

Serve and enjoy! ■ 


herlife | wine 

winter 

wines 

mercury is dropping... 

unpack the boots... 

and the wine 

by kelly jo mcdonnell | photography by cy dodson 

“Even though wineries will say people 

don’t drink seasonally, that’s not true,” said 

Certified Sommelier, Elizabeth Schneider. 

“I lived in Boston...it’s cold. Who wants a 

refrigerated Pino Grigio when outside it’s 

freezing! Give me something warm, and high 

in alcohol, to warm my body.” 

She also said the winter season brings out 

a different mentality. “It gets you in a different 

mood,” she explained. “People in cooler climates 

hunker down for winter. Gone are the 

sunny days of summer, where you can have a 

drink whenever you want. With winter wine, 

you want something higher in alcohol, so it 

has a warming effect. It warms your bones. 

You don’t eat cold food during the wintertime, 

and there’s a reason for that. It’s just nice...it’s 

like pumpkins in the fall, turkey at Thanksgiving, 

and a Christmas tree at Christmas...it’s 

the time to nest for a little while. I think it’s 

fabulous!” 

Elizabeth currently resides in Atlanta, 

and is a Certified Sommelier and Specialist 

of Wine. She also writes her popular blog, 

“Wine For Normal People.” She said while 

some of the country doesn’t have much of a 

change in weather during the winter season, 

most places have some sort of change in the 

mercury. 

“Regarding winter wines, you want to 

have a combination of red, white, sparkling 

and dessert wines,” explained Schneider, “I 

think people don’t always explore the gamut.” 

When the mercury drops, it’s a sign to make some changes. And not only in the 

closet, which is usually the first place our attention is drawn. How about your 

wine stock? 

We ladies know all the unspoken rules of seasonal fashion. Don’t wear white after Labor 

Day. Trade in your open toed heels for a durable yet chic pair of boots. Pack away the light, 

flowing skirts and get out the knitted scarves and leggings. But how about an Oaked Chardonnay 

served at 60 degrees instead of your normal chilled Ros you served at your backyard BBQ 

this past summer? Or how about adding a Crozes-Hermitage, rich with baking spices, instead of 

a fresh and bright Rene’ Barbier White...which is better at an outdoor picnic. 

The seasonal wine transition can be as easy as fashion. But sometimes it’s easy to get 

tripped up...due to funky trends. I bought a pair of skinny jeans for winter, forgetting that they 

only look good on 15-year-old girls and waiflike runway models. I also bought a nice, chilled 

bottle of Monkey Bay Chardonnay, only to take it home in 30-degree weather, craving something 

a bit more “toasty.” Little slip-ups are natural. Just stick with the basic, classic rules, and 

the choices are a no-brainer. 


Just ask winemaker and proprietor of Warehouse Winery, Billy 

Smith. He knows all about winter, as well as exploring the wine grape 

gamut. He’s smack in the middle of one of the coldest cities in the 

U.S.—Minneapolis, Minnesota, whose average temperature in January 

averages 13.1 degrees F (-10 degrees c). “We know the cold weather,” 

said Billy. “You’ve come to the right place. My winemaking techniques 

allow me to work with Minnesota cold hardy grapes. It entails a 

crossbreed to survive our winters. I don’t have to cover up my vines; I 

can leave them on the trellis in 40-degree-below weather. Some people 

think I have a greenhouse. Nope. My season is the same as corn and 

soybeans; it starts in the spring and ends in the fall.” 

Billy said some rules are made to be broken. “Like white wine... 

don’t chill them,” he comments. “Serve them at room temperature. 

Chilling a wine masks its character, almost like filtering.” That comes 

in handy when the winter nights are below zero anyway. He also 

stresses that learning little tricks of the trade in regards to wine tasting 

goes a long way. His enthusiasm for his subject is infectious as he demonstrates 

how to see if the wine has “legs,” and how to correctly smell 

and taste the first gulp. 

Billy’s wines have already caught the attention of a warm-weather 

sport in Minnesota—TCF Stadium and the Minnesota Twins. “They 

started carrying my wines just this past summer,” said Billy. “My next 

goal is the Vikings.” 

But while most NFL teams, including the Vikings, play in a toasty 

indoor dome, how about those of us who are still left out in the cold? 

In order to warm those bones, Elizabeth divulged her top handful of 

picks for a chilly winter season. 

Brunello Bi Montalcino (Red, Italian wine) 

“It’s very earthy, and is an unbelievable wine,” Elizabeth said. She 

said heavy, hearty Italian fare and anything with a tomato sauce will 

pair well with this wine. 

“Bottom line, when you’re looking for wine for a cooler climate, 

go with a higher alcohol level, and look for things that are going to 

warm you and provide comfort for you in the cold weather. That being 

said, you don’t want anything to destroy your food...keep a food-friendly 

eye.” ■ 

Crozes-Hermitage 

Elizabeth explains that it’s a European Syrah that’s a great price, 

in the $20 dollar range usually. “It’s a little higher in alcohol and has 

some fruit, but it’s very spicy...baking spices...so it’s very warming and 

goes so well with what I call ‘brown food,’ such as meat, mushrooms... 

anything that’s on the warmer side.” 

Carneros Chardonnay 

Elizabeth stresses that this particular area is great for Chardonnay 

(Carneros, or Los Carneros, a region in Napa Valley). “Their wines, 

even if they’re oaky, have a great amount of acidity, so they balance out 

the oak. They’re great sippers, and it’s a fabulous wine that a lot of folks 

don’t know about.” 

Malbec from Argentina 

“It’s so fruity and this is such a great sipping wine, and is higher 

in alcohol,” explained Elizabeth, “It’s warming, has a lot of blueberry, 

blackberry, and warm spices like cinnamon and clove. And it’s an 

amazing value. You can get a great Malbac for $18, and a pretty good 

one for $10. They’re delicious.” 



& 

Saddle 

Sirloin 

Club 

by kathleen m. krueger 

photography by kelli higgins of studio k photography 


The green foliage of ancient hardwoods 

creates shady arbors of retreat. 

Well-worn horse trails meander 

through 300 acres of nature’s beauty. Beautiful 

green lawns wrap themselves around 

casual settings, where families and friends 

gather together to share meals and camaraderie. 

The whinny of horses is heard from the 

stable, as riders saddle-up for an evening ride. 

If this sounds like heaven to you, then 

heaven is very close at hand. The setting I’m 

describing is at 14404 Holmes Road, just a 

short drive from downtown Kansas City at 

the Saddle & Sirloin Club, a place where 

families and couples can ‘relax in the country 

without leaving the city,’ as their slogan reads. 

The exclusive Saddle & Sirloin Club 

has a rich, long history in the Kansas City 

area. Initially founded in the 1940s as a 

supporting arm of the American Royal 

Livestock Show, its membership quickly grew 

to include a full cross-section of Kansas City 

society, but all with the same shared goals. 

Those goals have broadened a bit over 

the years, but the mission of the Saddle & 

Sirloin Club remains very much the same: to 

further the traditions of the American Royal, 

provide a family-friendly social club in the 

country, and promote both equine and shooting 

sports. 

The Saddle & Sirloin Club has such 

a unique bouquet of offerings for its members 

that it is hard to know where to begin, 

but we’ll start at the stable. One hundred 

spacious stalls are available for horses being 

boarded at the Club. Mark Foley, the barn 

manager at the Club, has a passion for horses 

and their riders. His personalized attention to 

the horses in his care is evidence of that fact. 

Mark Beeler, the Club’s equine manager, is 

the other half of the stable’s leadership team. 

An accomplished showman and trainer, he is 

passing on his love for horsemanship to riders 

of all levels, as he trains with young and old 

in the Club’s indoor and outdoor arenas. 

Not all Club members own horses; it is 

certainly not a requirement for membership. 

There are plenty of other reasons to join the 

Saddle & Sirloin Club. The separate shooting 

sports clubhouse enjoys lots of activity from 

both members and corporate events. Woody 

Longan is the staff shooting sports expert. 

Woody is an NRA distinguished expert in 

trap, skeet and sporting clays. He provides 

private shooting instruction, as well as overseeing 

the Club games and competitions for 

shooting sports. 


After a full day on horseback or shooting traps, members can work 

up quite an appetite. That’s when they head to the main clubhouse 

to kick back with friends and enjoy the amazing culinary skills of the 

Club’s award-winning chef, Nathan Havercroft. 

Chef Nathan will certainly be the one preparing those sirloin 

steaks you would expect to be on the menu, but that is just the tip 

of his culinary skills. Chef Nathan is a top-notch pastry chef and the 

Club willingly shares his skills with the general public for weddings 

With over 200 families claiming 

membership in the Saddle & 

Sirloin Club, the membership is 

small enough to feel like family and 

yet broad enough to incorporate 

a large range of ages and interests. 

and banquets that choose the Saddle & Sirloin Club as their venue. 

Brides and grooms are anxious to get their dates onto the Club’s 

event calendar. Wedding photos displayed on the Club’s website give 

evidence to the reasons behind the popularity of the Club’s unique 

setting; though they don’t fully testify to all the amenities and service 

provided by the Club’s event team. 

When speaking with Sara Carvalho, Operations Manager for 

the Saddle & Sirloin Club, you could hear her enthusiasm for the 

organization for where she is a part of. There was a sense of pride in 

her voice as she shared the Club’s commitment to giving back to the 

Kansas City community. “Support for the American Royal is just one 

of the non-profit ventures the Club is involved in,” Sara told me. The 

Saddle & Sirloin Club has sponsored silent auctions and contributed 

assistance to several other non-profit organizations that fit within the 

scope of their mission. 

With over 200 families claiming membership in the Saddle & 

Sirloin Club, the membership is small enough to feel like family and 

yet broad enough to incorporate a large range of ages and interests. 

When members gather for social events, you’ll find young families 

with lively children, couples in their later years and all the generations 

in between. Being a part of the Club means being welcomed into a 

group of people who share your interests and values in life. It’s one big 

family. 

There’s plenty more that we could share with you about the 

benefits of membership and the opportunities for non-members to 

participate in what the Saddle & Sirloin has to offer, but we’ll let you 

discover that for yourself. You can be assured, however, that the little 

bit you’ve read here just touches the surface. Take a drive out and see 

for yourself. ■ 

For more information on membership, opportunities for nonmembers 

or scheduling an event at the Saddle & Sirloin Club, visit their 

website at saddleandsirloin.com or call their office at 816-942-6900. 



herlife | book club 

Inside 

by Brenda Novak 

review by kathleen m. krueger 

Peyton Adams isn’t your typical professional 

woman. Peyton is beautiful, 

intelligent and strong-willed, but she 

is also the assistant deputy warden at one of 

toughest prisons for men in California. Her 

life is focused. She has high ideals and takes 

her career very seriously. In spite of this, her 

focus suddenly gets very blurry when her life 

becomes entwined with that of a man named 

Virgil Skinner. 

Novak keeps you 

guessing in this 

suspenseful romance 

that is filled with 

question marks 

and intrigue. 

There is nothing typical about Virgil Skinner either. He’s an 

ex-con turned informant for the California Correctional system. Not 

exactly the description of the type of man you would expect someone 

like Peyton to be interested in. However, you will see, as Peyton did, 

that there is much more to this man than the tough exterior created 

by his 14 years in prison for a crime he did not commit. 

Novak keeps you guessing in this suspenseful romance that is 

filled with question marks and intrigue. As you gradually learn more 

about each of the supporting characters, the uncertainty of motives 

and alliances become more difficult to decipher. Who really are the 

good guys and the bad guys? In this story, official badges and gang 

tattoos don’t necessarily provide accurate identification of which side 

is which. 

Through her novel, Novak takes you ‘inside’ the prison walls, 

allowing you to see this common institution from the perspectives 

of both the prisoners and the correctional officers that work with 

them. The brutality of prison gang life, in and outside the walls of the 

prison, stands in contrast to ideals of justice and decency. Peyton’s 


commitment to pursuing justice through the 

system is stretched, as she sees Virgil’s life 

put on the line by those whose authority she 

serves under. 

In the midst of all this, both Peyton and 

Virgil, struggle to deny the feelings they have 

for one another. Virgil is afraid to believe 

that there could be any future for him with 

a woman like Peyton, while Peyton fears that 

allowing her feelings for Virgil to show could 

jeopardize his life itself. The tension of their 

relationship fits well into the overall tension 

of the plot itself. 

Virgil is afraid to believe 

that there could be 

any future for him with 

a woman like Peyton, 

while Peyton fears that 

allowing her feelings for 

Virgil to show could 

jeopardize his life itself. 

Inside is the first novel in the Bulletproof 

Trilogy by Brenda Novak. The second 

and third books in the series, In Seconds 

and In Close, made their appearance on 

bookstore shelves in the fall of 2011. Novak 

has provided plenty of open ended story lines 

and undeveloped characters within Inside to 

draw her readers into the next book in the 

series, which centers around Laurel, Virgil’s 

sister, whose connection with Virgil draws 

her into a life on the run and its own twists 

and turns. 

I was a bit disappointed in a few chapter 

endings, where the writer seemed to end 

a scene abruptly, as if she’d simply gotten 

tired of writing for the day and didn’t want 

to bother with providing additional details. 

However, the overall intrigue and complexity 

of the characters would warrant overlooking 

these smaller flaws, in favor of the enjoyment 

of the book as a whole. ■ 


herlife | scene and be seen 

Adams Dairy Family Dental Care 

photography by herlife staff 

It was a fun, exciting day for patients and 

dental professionals alike on November 17th, 

as the Blue Springs Chamber of Commerce 

held a ribbon cutting ceremony for Adams Dairy 

Family Dental Care, a newly-opened dental 

practice located in Blue Springs, MO. At the 

ceremony, attendees had the opportunity to meet 

Dr. Joy Steen and her team, as well as tour their 

state-of-the-art office. 

View this entire album by scanning the QR 

code with your smart phone. Get a free 

scanner app at www.getneoreader.com 


We are the region’s leading innovator and the most experienced in helping infertile 

couples become parents. We specialize in reproductive health and offer a full range of 

treatment options ranging from minimal therapies to high-tech procedures. 

We invite you to learn all about us by visiting rrc.com where 

you will find valuable information and other helpful sites and links, 

like our Blog, Facebook, NewsFeed and YouTube. 

If you wish to start a family or grow your existing family, 

call us at (913) 894-2323 today. 

Celeste Brabec, M.D.• Ryan Riggs, M.D. 



Champagne & Chocolate 

photography by chris campbell 

What a party! On Saturday night, November 12th, friends and supporters of Southwest Boulevard 

Family Health Care stepped out in style at the beautiful home of David Brinkerhoff 

and Dan Meiners to support the 17th Annual Champagne & Chocolate fundraiser. A 

sold-out crowd enjoyed an amazing array of chocolate desserts and appetizers provided by 46 of Kansas 

City’s top restaurants, bakeries and chocolatiers. The incredible generosity of sponsors and guests made this 

one of FHC’s most successful events to date aiding our ongoing mission to provide medical care to those in 

need. 







Fashion Show for Harvesters 

photography by nightlifekc.com 

Fashion Show for Harvesters was a great success. The event featured three Zona Rosa boutiques, 

Apricot Lane, LaDeDa, and Watercolors, and was hosted by Buddah by Kenji Fusion restaurant in 

Zona Rosa. Liz Arnot, Assistant Manager at Apricot Lane, came up with the idea to promote holiday 

fashions and give back to the community at the same time. She loves to cook and thought what better way 

to give back to the community than through food. Harvesters is the only food bank in Kansas City and they 

do so much to help local families. We were so blessed to be able to fill a barrel with food for them and help 

feed local families this holiday season. We were also blessed to have Mrs. Missouri, Tina York, MC our event. 

She also loved the idea of giving back through fashion to local families. She really made the event more 

special. For more information on Harvesters and how you can help, go to harvesters.org. 







Kanning Orthodontics 

Hosts Northland Dental ED Study Club 


Kanning Orthodontics and Dr. Neil Kanning hosted their seventh Northland Dental ED study club 

meeting in December. This study club is an opportunity for Northland dentists to get together 

after office hours for a social and networking event while hearing high-profile, nationally recognized 

speakers present cutting-edge dentistry topics. They will be hosting seven more of these continuing education 

meetings in 2012. For more information about Kanning Orthodontics, please visit their website at 

kanningorthodontics.com. 







KU vs K-State Game Night at Tanners 


Tanner’s on 119th and 69 Highway in 

Overland Park is one of the best places 

in town to catch any sports game! With 

the Jayhawks playing The Wildcats last Wednesday 

night, we stopped in to snap a few pics of people 

enjoying the big win! 







Little Black Dress Party at Club Monaco 


A 

Little Black Dress is an evening or cocktail dress, cut simply and often quite short. Its ubiquity 

is such that it’s often simply referred to as the “LBD.” The Monaco night club in Martini Corner 

Entertainment District hosted their second annual LBD Party December 9th to celebrate Laura 

Durham’s birthday. Young professionals from all over Kansas City booked VIP bottle service and dressed to 

impress for this highly anticipated night out. Girls in their favorite little black dresses received free cover and 

hot giveaways including gift cards, gift sets and stocking stuffers from Bebe and Victoria’s Secret while the men 

stepped up their game in suits and ties. 







Saturday Night at Hickoks Bar & Grill 


Saturday nights at Hickok’s prove to be 

good, relaxing times as these pics show 

this is the spot to come with friends and 

co-workers alike. Clusters at bar tables and stylish 

standees filled the bar, while pre-holiday gatherers 

shared cheer at group-friendly tables filled with 

great food, great drinks and great friends! Hickok’s 

in the River Market hits the mark! 







Sully’s Pub 


On Friday nights, Sully’ Pub (located on 

the corner of Johnson Dr. and Nall 

in Mission, Kansas) is definitely the 

spot if you are looking for some neighborhood fun! 

This crowd kept our photographer busy, mugging 

with drinks in mason jars while catching the game. 

Keno and Golden Tee were enjoyed, and The 

Jagermeister Girls made an appearance as did 

couples, co-workers, BFFs, best bros and groups of 

fun friends. 







Double Take Salon Adopts Zeller Family 


Meet Double Take’s special adopted family, the Zellers! Our team, along with the help of local businesses 

and clients, raised $7,500 to donate to the Zeller family (which includes one of our own 

hairstylists, Carolyn Zeller). We decided to help the Zellers ease the financial burden of renovating 

their home to be handicapped-accessible for their four-year-old son, Nate. When Nate was four months old, 

bacterial meningitis nearly ended his young life, but he survived against all odds. After suffering several strokes, 

Nate was left with severe visual and auditory disabilities, a seizure disorder and cerebral palsy. Now, Nate has 

glasses, a hearing aid and a cochlear implant, and is indefinitely wheelchair-bound. Nate’s parents are renovating 

their house by building two new bedrooms for their older children, changing their existing bathroom to be 

more disability-friendly, and installing ramps and an elevator. If you would like more information on how to 

donate to this cause, please contact Double Take Salon at 913-814-7200. 







House of Élan 

Med Spa & 

Salon on the 

Countr y Club Plaza 

by candi smith | photography by kami brady 

D 

on’t you love it when you find that 

special place? You tuck it away as a 

secret you only share with friends 

and family! It may be a great restaurant, an 

antique shop or simply a sanctuary where you 

choose to escape from everyday life. 

HERLIFE has a secret and we want 

to share and discuss it with you. It’s called 

House of Élan Med Spa & Salon located 

on the Country Club Plaza. House of Élan 

was opened in December 2006 by Dr. John 

Verstraete, D.O., President and Medical Director. 

Dr. Verstraete brings an impressive list 

of medical credentials to this upscale oasis. 

He is board certified in Internal Medicine, 

and is licensed to practice in both Missouri 

and Kansas. He has clinic practices ranging 

from Kansas City to Richmond. He opened 

House of Élan because one his favorite 

aspects of being a doctor is seeing the transformation 

of a person from start to finish. “I 

enjoy watching the clients ultimately becoming 

more confident with their appearance,” 

he shared. 

House of Élan employs six staff members 

who provide services including skin rejuvenation, 

laser hair removal, body sculpting, massages, 

facials and hair services. Dr. Verstraete 

emphasized, “We do offer spa treatments, 

but our primary focus is more geared toward 

corrective treatments. My staff members are 

licensed estheticians and are able to perform 

laser treatments and injectables because they 

are under my direct supervision. Additionally, 

the companies we offer treatments from have 

put them through advance training courses so 

we know any and all techniques that achieve 

the best results from their treatments. This 

allows them to use the designation of medical 

spa in their credentials.” 

Using the most modern medical advances 

available, House of Élan is able to help 

clients feel more youthful and refreshed using 

both surgical and non-surgical procedures. 

Dr. Verstraete offered, “Our top services tend 

to be Botox and Dermal Fillers, Skin Tightening 

and Skin Rejuvenation. Their treatments 

target different things, but still work towards 

the same goal which is bringing the skin back 

to its original youthful vitality. Botox prevents 

and corrects lines in the forehead, frown lines 

and around the eyes. Dermal Filler puts volume 

back in the face where volume has been 

lost. Skin Tightening strictly stimulates the 

skin’s existing collagen, and provides overall 

improvement by brightening and tightening 

the skin. Skin Rejuvenation targets sun damage, 

hyperpigmentation, age spots, broken 

capillaries, elasticity improvement and pore 


“We do offer spa 

treatments, but 

our primary focus is 

more geared toward 

corrective treatments. My 

staff members are licensed 

estheticians and are able to 

perform laser treatments and 

injectables because they are 

under my direct supervision.” 


size improvement, while improving the skin’s texture and clarity.” 

Dr. Verstraete explained, “Average downtime for most surgical 

procedures is three to five days, depending on the treatment being 

preformed. Dermal, chemical peels and skin rejuvenation are three 

treatments with the potential for longer downtime.” However, he 

added, for those clients concerned about downtime, non-surgical treatments 

can also provide a more youthful look. “I would use the skin 

rejuvenation and/or the skin tightening treatment; however, it depends 

on the individual and their concerns. The nice thing about being a 

medical spa is that we can customize our client’s treatment plan to 

target their concerns along with their budget. Everyone should have a 

free consultation before setting up any corrective treatments so we can 

better customize their treatment plan and so they will know exactly 

what to expect.” 

Another service they offer clients is the Care Credit program, a 

credit card specifically for medical facilities that don’t take insurance. 

It allows the individual to choose a payment plan designed for their 

individual needs, choosing repayment options ranging from 3 to 12 

months. 

But we’ve saved the “best-kept” secret for last—House of Élan’s 

HideAway. This retreat is an ideal location to host events for any special 

occasion such as bridal or baby showers, or a romantic night with 

that special someone in your life. The HideAway boasts a living room 

with a large screen TV and fireplace; gourmet kitchen; master suite 

The HideAway boasts a living 

room with a large screen TV and 

fireplace; gourmet kitchen; master 

suite with Jacuzzi tub and sauna; 

heated pool; and a hot tub. 

with Jacuzzi tub and sauna; heated pool; and a hot tub. The HideAway 

is available for rental with three options: an evening rental (approximately 

five hours) for $500 (which is an excellent option for small gettogethers 

such as showers or retirement parties); an overnight rental for 

$800; or, a two-night rental for $1500. The Hideaway is a great place 

to celebrate anniversaries and weddings. Additionally, with the rental, 

the client receives ten percent off services booked in advance based on 

availability. 

As Dr. Verstraete proudly stated, “It’s not our low fees, professional 

treatment, delightful ambience or stunning décor that makes the 

House of Élan so refreshing. What our clients relish is the total House 

of Élan experience!” ■ 

House of Élan Med Spa & Salon is located at 906 W. 48th Street, 

Kansas City, Missouri. They can be reached at 816-756-3526, or visit 

houseofelan.com for business hours and their range of services. 



herlife | mother’s perspective 

Cutting the Apron Strings 

How to Raise Happy, Healthy, Independent Kids 

by chandra blackwell 

If you’re a parent, you know what it’s like 

to wish for more sleep, more time and 

sometimes more patience. But one thing 

a parent hardly ever has to wish for is more 

advice...or criticism. Turn one direction and 

overprotective (a.k.a. “helicopter”) parents 

are being criticized for shielding their 

children from even the most minor difficulty 

or discomfort and creating, in some minds, 

a nation of wimps. Turn the other way, and 

mouths stand agape at the concept of freerange 

kids, a term coined and popularized 

by (in)famous mom Lenore Skenazy, who 

allowed her nine-year-old son to navigate the 

New York subway system alone. No matter 

where you fall on the spectrum, you may 

Where is 

the happy 

medium? 

be wondering: where is the happy medium? 

How can you cut the apron strings in a 

timely and appropriate way, so that your kids 

grow up happy, healthy, and confident—but 

also safe? The truth is that most kids grow up 

way too quickly for a parent’s comfort, but 

with a little effort and some deep breathing, 

you can support your kids without “hovering,” 

and encourage their independence and 

self-reliance without leaving them to the 

wolves. 

Toddlers (1-4) 

Resist the Urge to Rescue 

As parents, we have a built-in protective 

instinct that can make it difficult not to 

swoop in and save the day when we see 

our children struggling. And sometimes, 

of course, that’s appropriate; if 

your toddler’s shoelace gets caught 

in a sewer grate and there’s a 

garbage truck coming, it’s probably 

best to do what it takes 

to get him out of the street 

(and out of harm’s way) as 

quickly as possible. However, 

if he’s merely struggling 

to put his pajamas on by 

himself, it’s okay to offer 

encouragement from 

the sidelines while 

he figures it out 

on his own, even 

if he gets a little 

frustrated. It may 

quite literally 

require sitting on 

your own hands 

to do it, but encouraging a toddler to work 

out his own dilemma can help him begin to 

develop a healthy sense of self-reliance. 

Big Kids (5-8) 

Decisions, Decisions 

Even as adults, we depend on others; 

very few of us, for example, produce 

all of our own food, manufacture our own 

vehicles or cut our own hair (more than 

once, anyway). So of course, your child will 

continue to depend on you to meet certain 

basic needs, such as keeping her fed and getting 

her to the doctor and to soccer games. 

However, at this stage of her development, 

she should not be too reliant on others for 

making basic decisions; while she may rely 

on you to provide advice or perspective, she 

should be making her own choices in many 

situations. As a parent, you can encourage 

more independence in your “big kid” 

by allowing her to make simple, everyday 

decisions on her own: which clothes to 

wear (you can intervene to make sure she’s 

dressed appropriately for the weather, but 

may have to turn a blind eye to some aesthetic 

choices), what to order in a restaurant 

or which of Kafka’s works best speaks to the 

existential dilemma. What’s important here 

is that she’s becoming more confident using 

her own judgment as she moves toward 

more independence. 

Pre-teens (8-12) 

Talk About It 

At this stage, your child’s worldview– 

and sphere of influence–has expanded 

well beyond the nucleus of your home and 


family. It now includes friends, coaches, teachers, other parents 

and perhaps an annoying celebrity or two. This extension of social 

relationships, while sometimes frightening to a parent, is a normal 

and healthy stage of a child’s development. While you will have to 

relinquish some of the influence you once had over your child, you 

still remain an integral part of his life, and can help him navigate 

this stage of development by keeping the lines of communication 

Show him that you’re interested 

in what’s going on in his life 

by talking about school, 

about his teachers, about his 

worries, hopes and dreams. 

open. Show him that you’re interested in what’s going on in his life 

by talking about school, about his teachers, about his worries, hopes 

and dreams. And as always, keep fostering age-appropriate ways for 

him to become more independent; for example, now you might 

occasionally charge your child with planning a menu and making 

dinner for the family, allow him to choose paint colors and décor 

for his room (see previous comment about turning a blind eye to 



aesthetic choices) or, if he receives an allowance, give him sole discretion 

as to how to spend a specific percentage of his money. Above 

all, continue to work together as a family, to give him a solid base of 

support as his world expands. 

Teens (13-17) 

Get Ready to Compromise 

By fostering a sense of independence in your child early on, 

you can help alleviate some of the rebellion that can occur during 

the teen years. And once your child becomes a teen, allowing her to 

express her individuality in appropriate ways can make her less likely 

to revolt. Of course you’ll still need to keep boundaries in place, 

but be ready to compromise on certain issues, such as personal 

style (which may require a new mantra for you: “It’s only hair… it’s 

only hair…”), rules and responsibilities. Though you should resist 

the urge to think of your child as the adorable toddler you once 

cuddled, a good many of the toddler principles come into play here: 

resisting the urge to “rescue” your teen when she’s trying to make a 

tough decision or dealing with the consequences of a choice she’s 

made can continue the effort you began long ago to encourage her 

independence—and make her better equipped for the “real” world 

that looms in her immediate future. ■ 

Sources for this article can be found: askdrsears.com, 

simplemom.net, teachersandfamilies.com, greatschools.org, 

parentline.org, cyh.com, noomii.com and nytimes.com. 



herlife | green living 

Recycled 

Wrapping 

For some gift givers, wrapping is 

almost an art form, beautifully 

mastered weeks before delivery. For 

others, wrapping is a necessary evil that 

often occurs in the car, on the way to the 

celebration. Whether you wrap two weeks 

or two minutes before gifting, using materials 

from around your home or office instead 

of store-bought paper is a fun way to add a 

unique flair to the presentation. You will 

save money, make an impression and help 

the environment. Best of all, most anyone 

can quickly find items to use for recycled 

“wrapping.” 

Newspapers 

Brightly colored comic strips are an 

eye- catching choice, but why not use paper 

that matches the theme of your gift? Choose 

an area of the section to be used with a 

dramatic color photo that will cover the 

part of the gift that you’d like to emphasize. 

For example, a feature section on wedding 

planning would be a fun choice for... 

well, a wedding gift! A strategically placed 

color photograph will pop, since the rest of 

the newspaper is in black type printed on 

by laura wynn 

an off-white background. A page of stock 

market listings works well for an up-and 

coming-executive. To bring the package to 

life, add a colorful ribbon or piece of string. 

Another unique option, though perhaps 

not as easy to find in all cities, is to use a 

newspaper printed in a language other than 

your primary, which might include Spanish 

or Asian languages. 

Maps 

If you know a college graduate moving 

to a new state or county, imagine how 

appropriate a gift would be if wrapped in a 

map of their destination! A souvenir map 

taken from a vacation is a unique way to 

wrap a host or hostess thank you gift. A 

variety of maps can be found through local 

visitation centers and are often free. 

A souvenir map taken 

from a vacation is 

a unique way to wrap 

a host or hostess 

thank you gift. 

Cans and Jars 

Clean coffee cans, plastic snack 

containers and cookie tins as well as their 

lids can be easily painted to cover logos or 

advertising. Adding a strip of printed paper, 

clip art or shelf liner creates a custom gift 

holder that is fun to make. If the container 

no longer has a lid, cover the opening with 

a piece of fabric or lace and tie on with ribbon 

or string to keep it in place. 

Glass jars are also a purposeful way to 

present gifts. If you don’t want the recipient 


to see what is on the inside, you can simply 

wrap the gift in a pretty scarf, bury it in a 

multicolored mix of dried beans, or line 

the jar with colorful tissue paper, making a 

pretty mosaic-type pattern through the jar. 

Furoshiki - Japanese-Style 

Fabric Wrapping 

Using a piece of fabric or a scarf is a 

Japanese form of gift wrapping known as 

Furoshiki. The approach is to wrap the 

package as if you were using traditional 

wrapping paper. Those who fall into the artistic 

wrapping category or highly motivated 

gift givers will be glad to know that there 

are many websites that teach the traditional 

techniques of this wrapping method. 

Soda Bottles 

Clear, glass soda bottles make adorable 

containers to hold gifts of small edibles and 

are perfect for occasions such as Valentine’s 

Day or Halloween. Dry the bottles prior to 

filling with candy, nuts, sunflower seeds or 

any small treat. Decorate each bottle with 

a simple label, attach with a ribbon and a 

fresh new (or clean) bottle cap. Place each 

completed bottle back into the six-pack 

caddy that you have decorated. 

Paper Bags 

Fancy, elaborate wrappers will probably 

not like this suggestion, but it is possible 

to create a nice looking gift by cutting 

open a paper grocery bag and personalizing 

the outside prior to using. Printed clip art, 

cut out pictures from magazines, stickers, 

hand-written drawings, sentimental 

words or rubber stamp images transform 

humble grocery sacks into fun gift packages. 

Paper lunch-style bags are a very cute 

wrap option. Create the perfect gift or party 

loot bag by running them, one at a time, 

through a printer. Add stamped designs, 

stickers or cut outs. 

Green Gift Tags 

Gift tags add personalization to a gift 

and are simple to create. The intention is 

primarily to address the recipient, so size 



is rarely an issue. Create colorful gift tags by cutting shapes from 

recycled cards, old calendar pictures or ripped children’s books and 

gluing them to a blank piece of card stock. 

Tying It All Together 

Bring extra flair to your green wrap by accenting the gift with a 

brightly colored ribbon or a pre-used bow. Don’t forget the personal 

sentiment! While once considered frugal, handmade cards are now 

considered very thoughtful and are a popular gift inclusion that will 

Bring extra flair to your green wrap 

by accenting the gift with a brightly 

colored ribbon or a pre-used bow. 

be treasured as keepsakes for many years. Don’t worry too much if 

your green wrapping efforts don’t come out looking like they were 

done by a professional. Your recipient will surely relish the one-ofa-kind 

decoration. Even more, they will appreciate your effort to 

create and use recycled wrap products. ■ 

Sources cited for this article: squidoo.com and 

halfmoonbay.patch.com. 



herlife | fine things 

Expensive Water Toys 

by laura wynn 

Considering that two-thirds of our planet is made up of water, 

it’s no surprise that more and more adults are partaking 

in the idea of spending leisure time on a liquid playground. 

As watercraft ownership increases in popularity, so does the 

price of these yachts, jet skis and underwater vehicles. Lakes, bays, 

rivers, sounds, harbors, islands and even oceans are suddenly available 

for exploration when you own a boat. These recreational water 

vehicles can still be very affordable, but new technology and interest 

has created some amazing luxurious rides that most of us only dream 

of experiencing. 

Choosing water transportation can be as simple as determining 

which boat fits your budget, occupancy needs and lifestyle. If 

all requirements are met, the color of the watercraft typically isn’t 

up for discussion. Boats are not crafted with the same exterior color 

and style choices we expect to find in an automobile. That is, unless 

your budget is endless and you are having the boat made to your 

exact specifications, as did an anonymous Malaysian businessman 

who took his customization to extremes, dropping an incredible 

$4.8 billion on his yacht. Why so expensive? The yacht was made 

entirely of solid gold. Enthusiasts take their water toys seriously, and 

when money is not an issue, the more unique the ride, the better is 

standard rule. 

Families who like to take things slow out on the water will 

appreciate the Waterbuggy. Slow and steady, the Waterbuggy is essentially 

a souped-up bumper car turned boat that is designed to operate 

safely in deep waters. Created by the Bodrum Marine Group of 

Turkey, this watercraft seats three and has a simple, circular design. 

The Waterbuggy does not go more than 10 MPH and it turns a full 

360 degrees, making it appealing to families as well as fishermen. 

Those who aren’t content simply enjoying the oceanic air will 

be impressed by the EGO. Referred to by enthusiasts as “the ultimate 

yacht toy,” South Korean company Raonhaje created this specialty 

vehicle to provide a way to explore the underwater world with very 

little effort and virtually no training at all. The EGO is semi-submersible 

with glass viewing, which means that the bottom of the yacht 

remains underwater, allowing for an incredible view. 

Combine surfing and jet skiing to envision the JetBoard. This 

toy holds riders weighing up to 350 pounds and travels waves at 

speeds of up to 35 miles per hour. Not fast enough? Double that 

speed with the purchase of the AquaJet Jetbike, which is considered 

the world’s only “water motorcycle.” In fact, the Jetbike is the only 

personal watercraft that offers a simultaneous front and rear steering 

mechanism. This is definitely not your classic wave runner! The extra 

power and twist-grip throttle allows the AquaJet Jetbike to actually 

plunge briefly under water. 

Brand-conscious water players are sure to recognize the familiar 

quality and features behind the design of the Intermarine 55. This 

luxury yacht is built by Intermarine and styled by BMW Group’s 

DesignworksUSA. It is no surprise that the Intermarine 55 is dripping 

with the opulence and class that BMW is known for. Measuring 57 

feet, this beauty has room for up to 7 people. One would naturally 

expect the roomy and luxurious interior, but even seasoned boaters 

are impressed by the watercraft launch platform built into this $2.2 

million dollar yacht. 

Who wouldn’t want an excursion toy that runs both on the sur- 


face and beneath the water? The SC3 Volt is an all-electric powered 

watercraft that can be used as a boat for water skiing as well as for underwater 

exploring via submarine technology. Imagine exhilarating 

above-water speeds of up to 50 miles per hour on the surface, while 

also having the ability to plunge into a 164-foot descent; all while carrying 

three passengers! The SC3 Volt can travel a range of 100 miles. 

The lack of exposed propellers makes it safe as well as fun. This fun 

doesn’t come cheap, however. Enthusiasts will invest $144,000 to 

own this watercraft. 

If none of the above luxury water toys will suffice, there is the 

seemingly over-the-top option of actually designing and owning your 

own mobile paradise—literally. The Tropical Island Paradise is a 

yacht designed to look like an island. As with any island, this luxury 

ship enjoys lush landscape of seaside greenery, palm trees, a pond, a 

waterfall and even a private volcano. The upper deck of the Tropical 

Island Paradise includes five small cabana suites inclusive of traditional 

wooden cladding and conical thatched roofs. The cabanas, of 

course, surround an egg-shaped pool. 

While any of these expensive water toys would be a fun alternative, 

the price tags include expensive maintenance and upkeep. For 

most of us, a simple “yacht” in the form of a modest houseboat or 

“old-fashioned” jet ski will remain the toys that make up a wonderful 

day with family and friends. But there’s always room for dreaming. ■ 

Additional information for this article can be found at: 

trendhunter.com, businessinsider.com, justluxe.com and aquajet.com. 



SANTA FE 

Tow 

Conventional wisdom says 

every woman should have 

a wide circle of friends. 

Specifics range depending 

on the authority you consult, but 

most agree that vital connections 

include friends who know you 

from childhood, a workout buddy, 

a spiritual friend, your partner’s 

friends, a new friend, a younger 

friend, your mom and yourself. 

What most don’t include–but 

should–is the best friend you 

never knew you needed: 

Santa Fe Tow Service. 

by lisa allen 

photography by kelli higgins of studio k photography 


Businesses like Santa Fe Tow Service 

are easy to overlook when things 

are good. But when you break down 

on the side of the road, are involved in an 

accident or locked out of your car, it’s the 

professional and trustworthy folks at Santa 

Fe Tow Service that will come to the rescue 

faster than anyone else in your address 

book. Knowing that fear, uncertainty and 

confusion are common when dealing with 

an automobile crisis, the owners and employees 

at Santa Fe Tow Service encourage 

women to be prepared rather than scared 

on the road. 

To understand what the company is 

about, it’s important to know how it started. 

Jon Kupchin’s father owned a body shop 

back in 1963. “I grew up there, working on 

cars,” says Jon. His father had one tow truck 

at the time that was used to tow wrecks for 

the body shop, a truck that Jon eventually 

purchased from his father. Jon was the 

sole employee, but he soon realized that 

he wanted to grow the business. “I hustled 

business the old-fashioned way,” he says, 

“knocking on doors and getting accounts.” 

Fast forward almost 30 years and Santa 

Fe Tow Service owns a fleet of 60 trucks, 

and services the states of Kansas, Missouri 

and Texas. “We will go anywhere you need 

help,” says Jon. “We are not limited to just 

the Kansas City area.” 

Not happy with convention, Jon and 

his wife Carrie have built a business that 

defies the stereotypes of their industry. 

With state-of-the-art equipment, clean 

trucks and trustworthy, uniformed drivers, 

they are proud of the standards they set for 

other businesses. “I have drivers that have 

been with us as long as 19 years,” says Jon. 

“What we understand is that it isn’t a job. 

It’s a lifestyle. The hours can stink, and if 

it snows families know that they won’t be 

seeing us for awhile. It takes a different 

person to do this type of work,” he says. “It’s 

definitely not for just anyone.” 

With state-of-theart 

equipment, clean 

trucks and trustworthy, 

uniformed drivers, 

they are proud of the 

standards they set for 

other businesses. 


That standard applies to office operations as well, where the 

phones are answered around the clock, without fail, by a Santa Fe 

Tow Service employee rather than an answering service. What is 

most important to the staff is that they are a place of comfort in 

the midst of chaos or confusion. Carrie explains “Women can be 

scared and not really sure what to do after an accident or a 

“Women can be scared and not 

really sure what to do after an 

accident or a breakdown. We 

want them to be empowered 

and prepared, and know that 

they have someone to call who 

is trustworthy and reliable.” 

breakdown. We want them to be empowered and prepared, and know 

that they have someone to call who is trustworthy and reliable.” Jon 

adds that the door at Santa Fe Tow Service is always open, and 24/7 

literally means 24/7. “The door of our building has never been locked,” 

he says. 

The Kupchins’ son inspired the family’s latest advance when 

he told Jon, “Dad, you need an app!” Knowing that a phone app 

would be another way to empower and inform customers, Jon 

worked with a developer in California and was the second company 

in the industry to ever launch an app. To date the app has been 

downloaded over 2000 times, and includes a GPS component 

that communicates with Santa Fe Tow Service to locate someone 

in need of service. Gone are the days of figuring out what mile 

marker is closest or how to explain where an accident or breakdown 

occurred. 

Santa Fe Tow Service has a loyal group of followers on Twitter 

and Facebook, where they share everything from local traffic and 

weather updates to information that educates people in advance of 

a crisis. Knowing that the best way to handle a crisis is to prepare 

before it happens, the company uses social media to not only 

inform but to empower. “We want people to know that if they are 

broken down or involved in an accident they have a choice about 

who to call and who to use,” says Jon. “All you have to do is ask the 

officer to call Santa Fe Tow Service, or inform them that you’ve 

already done so. You are not required to use a service that just 

shows up.” ■ 

Santa Fe Tow Service can be reached at 913-894-5201, on 

Facebook at facebook.com/SantaFeTow, on Twitter at @SantaFeTow, 

santafetowservice.com or download their app on the Android market 

or iTunes. 



herlife | trendsetter 

Bridal 

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shawnee, ks 66216 

913-268-5566 

bridalextraordinaire.com 

photography by tracy routh of 

tracy routh photography 

model bess sweiger of exposure, inc. 

hair by alli cox of double take salon and spa 

makeup by jolie carrillo-allen 

aluminum tapestry by wil lala 

icee couch by phyllis pease 

shot on location at windancer, home of artist 

lisa lala and architectural engineer robert harris 









herlife | working women 

Separating 

Work and Personal Personas 


Over 150 years ago, Sojourner 

Truth proclaimed that she could 

birth babies and plow fields—and 

emphasized, “Ain’t I a woman?” The more 

things change, the more they stay the same. 

We still work at home, outside the home 

and everywhere in between. Ain’t women 

wondrous? 

But it’s important that as you forge professional 

and private personas, you set clear 

boundaries to help create rhythm in your 

life. Fortunately, today’s woman has many 

resources available at her fingertips to help 

guide her with this duality. 

Separate your work and home lifestyles by 

using technology consistently. For instance, 

carry two different mobile phones, ensuring 

that only one is used for work calls and 

emails. It allows you to continue to communicate 

with necessary professional contacts 

throughout the day and frees up your 

If you work out of your 

home, make sure you 

dedicate a space for 

your home office. 

personal cell phone for calls from family and 

friends. Many employers provide a phone 

to you for business purposes. Additionally, 

by dedicating a line to work calls, you can 

take a business expense write-off (if selfemployed) 

for taxes. 

If you work out of your home, make sure 

you dedicate a space for your home office. It 

psychologically helps you put on your “professional 

hat” when you need to have your 

head in the game. And it helps keep your 

work life from seeping into your personal 

and private time. 

Create structure in your day by using 

some type of planner (online calendars 

work great because they have reminders and 

notifications that might otherwise get missed 

on hard copy calendars). This allows you to 

have a set end of your workday, especially 

important if you tend to be a workaholic 

who has a hard time recognizing when the 


workday is through. It also keeps you focused 

on tasks that you need to complete. 

Try to keep a notepad handy at all times 

for when you have those flashes of brilliance 

(which usually come in the middle of the 

night!). This allows you to jot down a few 

professional notes, but quickly return to your 

personal time. Don’t fully flesh out business 

ideas at this time—just refer to your notes 

later to start the creative processes flowing. 

Create separate email addresses for your 

work and private lives, along with appropriate 

email auto-responses. For instance, if you 

know that during your workday you won’t 

check your private email, set up an autoresponder 

to your family and friends that 

lets them know you’re unavailable during 

working hours. Likewise, on the professional 

Be smart about 

how you conduct 

yourself on blogs, 

social networking sites 

and in posted photos. 

side, set up a response that lets your clients 

or coworkers know the hours they can reach 

you. Then be sure you are diligent about being 

available so you don’t discredit yourself. 

Using technology to establish boundaries 

makes things easier but some areas can get 

a bit stickier. What happens when you have 

personal issues that carry over into the workplace 

such as a divorce, death in the family 

or financial problems? It’s important to do 

your best to only bring your professional persona 

into the office. Otherwise, you might 

cause your boss or peers to lose confidence 

in your ability to do your job. Create a plan 

of action that allows you to tackle whatever 

you’re dealing with so that you’re not adding 

job loss to your already stressful situation. 

Avoid hanging out with gossipy colleagues. 

If they will dish their own dirt, they 

will surely dish yours as well. Many accomplished 

women have regretted being open in 

the workplace about their private lives and 



putting their “business in the street.” While it’s human nature to want 

to reach out and connect with others, you need to carefully assess who 

you can trust with your personal issues. But if you find that there’s no 

one in the workplace you can turn to, seek outside professional help. 

If available, your company’s Employee Assistance Program is a great 

confidential resource to use. 

Keep your conversations and 

language professional at all 

times in the workplace. 

You’ve probably heard the phrase “dress for success”—this adage 

still rings true. Sweat pants and flip flops are perfect for a night of movies 

and popcorn on your couch. But don’t even think about showing 

up to work in them if you want to be taken seriously. And keep your 

conversations and language professional at all times in the workplace, 

even if you cuss like a sailor at home. 

Finally, remember that sometimes things you do in your private 

life have a way of finding themselves being discussed around the office 

water cooler. Be smart about how you conduct yourself on blogs, social 

networking sites and in posted photos. And don’t ever bash your boss, 

place of employment, or your peers and coworkers. ■ 

Sources for this article were found at: profitably.com, 

bradleygauthier.com and wikihow.com. 



herlife | finance 

Top Things You Should 

Not Buy Used 


There are items that you can 

purchase which are gently used 

that work well. But you need to be 

careful when purchasing. While it’s tempting 

to buy used items from time to time, 

HERLIFE offers some recommendations 

for items you should never buy used. 

Some of the most important items you 

can purchase for your child are their crib 

and furniture. While you might be tempted 

to buy a used crib, don’t do it because you 

don’t know if the crib had previous recalls 

or is missing important components. And 

the same goes for car seats. Every year, safety 

engineers are improving on car seat designs so 

spend the extra money to get a safe product. 

When it comes to your car’s tires, always 

purchase them new. You don’t know the 

history of used tires and it’s not worth the risk 

worrying if they’ve been involved in a previous 

accident. Plus, most new tires come with 

a warranty package which is nice if you find 

yourself with a flat and needing a replacement. 

Used tires won’t offer that degree of 

security. 

In today’s electronic age, people are 

buying and selling laptops, hardware and 

software on a fairly routine basis. However, 

the problem with used computer items 

is you have to consider if the items are 

stolen, refurbished, not covered under 

warranty or unusable due to preregistered 

serial numbers. And, laptop damage is not 

always visible so you don’t know if it’s had 

liquid spilled in its components, if it’s been 

abused, etc. It’s best to buy new because 

When it comes to your car’s tires, 

always purchase them new. You don’t 

know the history of used tires and it’s 

not worth the risk worrying if they’ve 

been involved in a previous accident. 


Buying a used vacuum cleaner is 

discouraged because they tend 

to get a lot of use, you don’t 

know what’s been sucked up 

through its hoses and they are 

prone to faulty wiring. 

most manufacturers offer free tech support, extended warranties and 

the peace of mind of knowing your laptop’s history. 

Plasma and high definition televisions have expensive replacement 

parts that often cost as much as buying a new TV outright would 

run. When you consider that older TVs had a seven percent malfunction 

rate (as is common with new technology), it’s best to get something 

updated. Plus, you can purchase an extended warranty on a new 

set that wouldn’t be offered if you buy used. 

Some electronics take a beating that’s not always visible to the 

naked eye. For instance, many DVD players, speakers, microphones, 

and digital and video cameras have laser parts that don’t work well after 

they’ve been dropped, mishandled or banged about. Do your shop- 



ping, look for sales and you’ll be able to find a 

new, updated version of the gadgetry you seek. 

If you’re a photographer, you might be 

tempted to purchase used cameras and photo 

bulbs. However, considering a camera’s lens 

is its most important asset, you want to be sure 

that there’s nothing damaged that would affect 

the outcome of your photos. Additionally, 

while photo bulbs tend to be pricey, they generally 

have a long lifespan. So pay the price to 

ensure that your memorable moments aren’t 

ruined because you saved a few bucks. 

Buying a used vacuum cleaner is discouraged 

because they tend to get a lot of use, you 

don’t know what’s been sucked up through 

its hoses and they are prone to faulty wiring. 

Plus, fixing older vacuums can be costly if you 

have to find outdated parts and bags. 

Bicycle helmets make the list of no-no’s 

when buying used. Usually, during an accident, 

a helmet will only have its interior foam 

crushed, and doesn’t always show damage on 

the helmet’s exterior. But since they are built 

to sustain a single crash, it’s best to err on the 

side of safety and purchase a new one. 

Boats can be a big ticket item many 

people might want to buy used. However, 

unlike cars that are driven and maintained 

regularly, boats don’t get serviced often and 

tend to have more maintenance issues. Since 

it would be tough to test drive a boat, and 

getting a mechanical diagnostic test can be expensive, 

you’d be better off buying something 

new with a warranty. 

Finally, while you can save a pretty 

penny by buying engagement sets and fine 

jewelry from another individual or through 

estate sales and consignment shops, you have 

no way to verify the jewelry’s quality. Unless 

you are dealing with a professional jewelry 

reseller who can provide a certification of the 

stone’s quality, you are taking a huge financial 

risk. Purchase from a trusted source so that 

if you have problems down the road (such 

as a loose prong or you simply want a good 

cleaning), you have a business you can rely 

upon. ■ 

Sources for this article were found at 

wisebread.com, shopping.yahoo.com, 

foxbusiness.com and money.msn.com. 



herlife | home 

The 10 Best Plants 

For The Busy Home Gardener 

by linda r. price 

House plants are fairly reasonable 

and will grow under indoor growing 

conditions. Indoor conditions 

may not be ideal, but most plants will 

adapt and survive. The basic elements for 

plants are light, soil, water, temperature and 

humidity. 

Light 

Plants must have light to survive. Low 

light is usually found when windows face 

the north and receive no sun. Medium 

light comes in windows facing east or west. 

These windows receive the early morning 

or late afternoon sun. High light comes 

from southern exposures, is intense and 

should be avoided. The length of the day 

and the number of hours the sun shines 

in the window affect the amount of light 

received. Light is also reduced or increased 

by buildings, trees, shrubs, air pollution, 

and curtains or shutters which restrict 

light coming into the windows. Learn to 

judge your plants’ health by observing their 

growth. Plants which receive sufficient 

light grow compact forms while those with 

insufficient light will be leggy with widely 

spaced leaves. 

run-off after 30 minutes. Judge the amount of moisture available to the plant by touching the 

soil. If it feels dry, the plant probably needs watering. 

Temperature 

House plants will grow well in the average home temperatures of 68 to 74 degrees and will 

benefit from a temperature drop of up to 10 degrees at night. In the summer, as the afternoon 

sun is considerably stronger and hotter, you will probably need to move plants farther away 

from the window. Winter temperatures are generally not a problem unless plants are kept in 

cold, unheated rooms. 

Humidity 

Low humidity can be a problem. Both plants and humans benefit from raising the humidity 

level. A humidifier is a good idea if your apartment or house is constantly dry and overheated 

from central heating. If this is out of the question, try placing plants on pebbles in low trays 

filled with water; keep plants above water line. 

Continued on page 108 

Soil 

The plants on our list like either a 

sandy soil or an all-purpose one. Both are 

available in garden centers. 

Water 

Plants need water to survive, but most 

do not like their feet kept wet so pour out 



The Ten Best Plants 

1. The cast iron plant (Aspidistra Elatior) is virtually indestructible. 

The plant has tall, dark-green broad leaves. The cast iron plant grows 

in any light, needs an all-purpose soil and moderate watering. 

2. Spider plants (Chlorophytum Comosum) are solid green or greenand-white 

with grassy leaves; plantlets develop on tips of long runners. 

The plantlets can be left alone or broken off to give to friends. The 

plant looks great on a tall table or in a hanging pot. It likes low-medium 

light, sandy soil and light watering. 

3. The rosary vine or string-of-hearts (Ceropegia Woodii) is a smallleaved 

vine, purplish in color with tiny flowers (bright light) or mottled 

green (lower light). The small bulbs along stems create new plants. It 

looks best in a hanging pot, adapts to any light conditions, likes sandy 

soil and moderate watering. 

4. Dumb cane (Dieffenbachia) has variegated tall leaves, is poisonous 

if eaten and is fast-growing. It likes low-medium light, all-purpose gardening 

soil and moderate water. Place on a window sill for best results. 

5. Dracaenas have elongated striped leaves and are variously known as 

the corn plant, the ribbon plant, the gold dust plant, etc. They grow in 

any light, need all-purpose soil, like light watering and look fabulous as 

floor plants. 

6. Peperomias are low-growing round leaves in various colors and 

textures. Two of the most popular are “Emerald Ripple” and the watermelon 

peperomia. Peperomias like low-medium light, all-purpose or 

sandy soil, light watering and look beautiful when placed in a window. 

7. Philodendrons are large-leaved shrubs or heavy vines requiring supports. 

The most well-known are the heart-leaf philodendron, the splitleaf 

philodendron, the fiddle-leaved philodendron and the velvet-leaf 

philodendron. Philodendrons grow in any light, all-purpose soil and 

like moderate watering. The small-leaved plants do well in a window 

sill and the bigger varieties on the floor. 

8. Snake plants (Sansevierias) are another hardy, virtually indestructible 

plant with spiky, mottled leaves edged in yellow or green with 

yellow edges. They like any light, all-purpose or sandy soil and light 

watering. They can grow in a windowsill. 

9. The umbrella tree (Scheflera Actinophylla) has shiny, long, oval 

leaves. It likes medium light, all-purpose soil and moderate watering. 

Schefleras look best as floor plants. 

10. The arrow-head plant (Syngonium Podophyllum) has mediumsized, 

veined, dark or light green arrow-shaped leaves. It is fast-growing 

in bright light, but will grow in any light. It likes all-purpose soil and 

moderate watering. The plant grows well as a window sill plant or in a 

hanging pot. ■ 

Source for this article: The Lazy Indoor Gardener by Roberta Pliner 1976 



herlife | real estate 

The Ramifications 

of Shor t Sales 

by catie watson 

A 

few years ago a young couple moved 

in to the house next door to ours. 

Adam and Julie had recently sold a 

condo and were planning to start a family, so 

they were thrilled to have a home with a yard. 

They bought when the housing boom was 

in full force, paying more than $500,000 for 

about 1200 square feet. Over the next three 

years they had two sons. Adam was earning 

good money in construction and Julie was 

able to stay home with the boys. Then the 

housing bubble burst. Our neighbors were 

almost immediately impacted when Adam’s 

work began to taper off. Within a few months 

they could no longer afford their hefty 

mortgage payment and decided to negotiate 

a short sale with their lender. They knocked 

on our door the day before the For Sale sign 

appeared on their lawn to let us know about 

their situation. 

When a home’s value has dropped to less 

than the remaining balance on the mortgage, 

110 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 

A short sale is a 

“last resort” for 

homeowners have 

explored other 

options for debt 

relief without success. 

a short sale allows the homeowner to sell the 

house at its current market value and settle 

the mortgage debt. A short sale offers several 

advantages over foreclosure. The homeowner 

doesn’t have to face eviction and may be allowed 

to stay in the home until escrow closes. 

It also allows the homeowner to avoid the 

embarrassment of having the home sold in a 

public sale or auction. 

Short sales aren’t for everyone who are 

upside down in a mortgage. A short sale is a 

“last resort” for homeowners have explored 

other options for debt relief without success. 

According to Bank of America, to be 

eligible for a short sale a homeowner must 

owe more than the house is worth, had no 

success in modifying the current home loan 

and be unable to make monthly mortgage 

payments. Lenders also look for homeowners 

who have undergone hardships such as a loss 

of employment or reduction in income (like 

my neighbors), bankruptcy, health problems, 

death or divorce. 

Homeowners who think that a short sale 

is the solution to their problems must find 

a buyer for their home and then assemble a 

package to present to their lender. The package 

should include a letter that describes the 

hardships that have required a short sale, as 

well as income verification, recent bank statements 

and tax returns. Then the homeowner 

must wait until the lender either approves or 

refuses the short sale. Most homeowners find 

According to CNN Money 2010 

this part of the short sale process to be frustrat- 

Continued on page 112

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ing and stressful but have little choice other 

than to wait for the lender to make a decision. 

A short sale is the answer to many 

homeowners’ prayers, but it doesn’t come 

without a price. The homeowner will lose all 

investment in the home; because the home 

is being sold for less than the amount owed, 

the homeowner does not receive any money 

when the sale closes. The homeowner’s credit 

rating will be affected by a short sale. CNN 

Money reports that Fair Isaac Corporation, the 

developer of the FICO score, treats a short 

sale the same as a foreclosure or “walking 

away” from a mortgage. The homeowner’s 

FICO score usually takes a hit of 85 to 160 

points. 

An additional ramification of a short 

sale is possible increased tax liability. When 

a lender forgives some of a homeowner’s debt 

through a short sale, the IRS considers the 

cancelled amount of the debt to be taxable 

income. According to the IRS website, the 

lender is normally required to report the 

amount of the cancelled debt to the IRS 

and the taxpayer is required to include the 

amount on his or her tax return. However, 

there are exceptions to this rule, including an 

exception for a qualified principal residence. 

This exception was created by the Mortgage 

Debt Relief Act of 2007 and applies to most 

homeowners. Sellers who have questions 

about tax liability should contact their accountant 

or the IRS. 

Perhaps the best thing about short sales is 

that they help many homeowners avoid bankruptcy, 

which is the worst-case scenario in 

terms of a borrower’s credit rating. A Chapter 

7 bankruptcy, which involves liquidation of a 

borrower’s assets, stays on the credit report for 

10 years. Following a short sale, the home seller 

may be able to obtain funding for another 

home within 24 months or less. We hope this 

is the case for our neighbors. Their house sold 

after a few weeks on the market. They are now 

renting an apartment and looking forward to 

the day when they’ll once again be in a home 

of their own. ■ 

For more information on the S&P index, 

you can visit them on the web at 

standardandpoors.com. 



herlife | travel 

Multi-State Yard Sales 

Attracting Bargain-Hunting 

Tr aveler s Across the Countr y 

by linda maranno 

If you’re looking for a unique way to spend a long weekend getaway and you love to shop, 

multi-state yard sales could be the ideal road trip for you. These events are staged along a 

number of historic highways in various parts of the country offering miles and miles of bargains 

as individual homeowners, vendors and businesses set up “yard sales” along the route all 

on the same days. Each highway sale event is organized differently, but generally anyone who 

owns property or rents space along these routes can set up a table to sell their goods. 

The type of sales along each route range anywhere from random homeowner yard sales on 

their front lawn to more organized flea market events featuring numerous vendors in a single 

location, such as a vacant lot. You’ll find anything from valuable antiques to vintage furniture, 

art, jewelry, crafts, fresh baked goods and produce, as well as typical items you’d find at any 

Each town along these routes plans 

festivals, antique sales, flea markets and 

other activities in conjunction with the 

yard sales to attract more travelers. 

yard sale. Each town along these routes plans 

festivals, antique sales, flea markets and other 

activities in conjunction with the yard sales to 

attract more travelers. 

Multi-state yard sales were initially 

organized primarily to promote and increase 

tourism trade for the small towns and communities 

located along these historic routes. 

Income generated from gas, food and lodging 

is a welcome boost to these local economies. 

The yard sales are usually three- or 

four-day events scheduled during the spring 

or summer on an annual basis. The following 

is a quick overview of the six most popular 

events. 

Highway 127 Corridor Sale 

The 127 Corridor Sale is the original 

multi-state yard sale created in 1987 to 

encourage travelers to venture off the beaten 

path to discover the history and charm of 

Tennessee and Kentucky towns along the 127 

route. This event now stretches 675 miles 

from Gadsen, Alabama, to Hudson, Michigan, 

running through six states—Alabama, 

Georgia, Tennessee, Kentucky, Ohio and 

Michigan. The four days of bargain hunting is 

an annual event and always starts on the first 

Thursday in August and runs through the following 

Sunday. This year’s sale is scheduled 

for August 2-5. 


U.S. 11 Antique Alley & Yard Sale 

This 502-mile roadside sale takes place along the route of U.S. 

Highway 11 from Meridian, Mississippi, through Birmingham, 

Alabama, winding through towns in Dade County, Georgia, then up 

through Chattanooga and Knoxville, Tennessee, and ending in Bristol, 

Virginia. The event was created in 1997 by tourism and chamber 

of commerce directors from various towns along the route who 

thought it would be a unique way to draw tourists to their towns. 

They had hoped to attract 10,000 visitors, but actually brought in 

more than 30,000 their first year. This annual four-day (Thursday- 

Sunday) event is always scheduled in May the weekend following 

Mother’s Day. This year’s event will take place May 17-20. 

Great U.S. 50 Yard Sale 

This is a coast-to-coast yard sale following Route 50 from California 

through Nevada, Utah, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, 

Indiana, Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia, Constitution Avenue in 

Washington, D.C., and into Maryland. Their first event took place 

in 2000 and was limited only to the state of Indiana. The event has 

now expanded to include all states along the entire length of U.S. 

50. This is a non-sponsored event and is not promoted or coordinated 

by any particular organization, so yard sale locations and other 

activities are left up to the creativity and imagination of individuals, 

businesses and communities located along the route. The three-day 



(Friday-Sunday) event is held each year 

on the weekend before the Memorial Day 

weekend. This year’s event will be May 

18-20. 

Historic U.S. 40 Yard Sale 

This event offers 824 miles of bargains 

along U.S. 40 from Baltimore to St. Louis 

and includes lots of towns big and small 

along the way in West Virginia, Pennsylvania, 

Ohio, Indiana and Illinois. U.S. 40 was 

originally known as National Road, which 

was created in 1806 by an act of Congress 

to serve as the first federally funded highway 

construction project. The annual event 

usually takes place in late May/early June, 

and this year’s event is scheduled for May 30 

through June 3. 

Historic U.S. 80 Highway Sale 

This three-state event covers 392 miles 

from Mesquite, Texas, through Louisiana to 

Jackson, Mississippi, along U.S. 80, which 

is among the first group of highways commissioned 

in 1926. The biannual three-day 

(Friday-Sunday) sale takes place the third 

weekend in April and October and has attracted 

visitors from far and near for the past 

20 years. This year’s events will be held April 

20-22 and October 19-21. 

Lincoln Highway Buy-Way Yard 

Sale 

Held annually since 2005, this event 

stretches hundreds of miles across five states 

including West Virginia, Ohio, Indiana, 

Illinois and Iowa. Once known as the Main 

Street of America, the Lincoln Highway 

was formally dedicated October 31, 1913, 

as America’s first national memorial to 

President Abraham Lincoln. The three-day 

(Thursday-Saturday) event is held on the 

first weekend of August each year, and this 

year’s event will be August 2-4. ■ 

For more information, visit 127sale. 

com,11antiquealley.com, route50.com, oldstorefrontantiques.com, 

easttexasguide.com 

and olhhc.org/index.php/buy-way-yard-sale. 



herlife | pets 

Tr ave l i n g W i t h Yo u r Pe t s 

by linda r. price 

The news spread rapidly over the media 

in late October 2011: Jack is back. Jack 

the cat went missing on August 25 after 

escaping from his carrier and was located in a JFK 

Customs room when he came tumbling out of the 

ceiling looking tired and dirty on October 27. What 

can you do to prevent this from happening to your 

pet? 

According to www.petrelocation.com, over 

63 percent of pet owners have carried their pets on 

trips of 50 miles or more. For some pet owners, this 

is by plane, for others by car. Whatever your mode 

of travel, there are several things you can do to 

prevent mishaps with your pets. 

The first thing to do when planning to travel 

with your pet is to be sure the animal’s paperwork 

is up-to-date. Many countries require that health 

certificates and vaccines are given within ten days 

of travel. Even if you are planning a road trip it is 

important to carry the paperwork with you to prevent 

denial of shelter facilities due to the uncertain 

status of the animal’s vaccinations. Also, tuck a 

recent photo of your animal into the folder. 

If you are planning on flying, especially 

internationally, check with the airlines at least six 

months in advance. You need the time to contact 

government agencies, airlines, hotels, and quarantine 

facilities. The U.S. Department of Agriculture 

(USDA), Animal and Plant Health Services can 

answer questions about whether or not an animal is 

allowed in a particular country. See 

www.aphis.usda.gov for more information. 

Airlines have different regulations concerning 

carrying pets on planes. Some only carry pets in 

Exercise your pet to reduce stress 

and remove excess energy before 

boarding the plane or getting 

in the car. 


the cargo hold and others will allow small animals inside the plane. 

Airlines restrict the number of carriers allowed inside the plane, so you 

want to be sure yours is first. 

Sherpa Pet Carriers has a program called “Guaranteed On Board” 

where they take the traveler through a step-by-step process to ensure 

that all airline travel details are covered. See www.flyGOB.com for 

more details. There are icons from eight major airlines that you can 

check for specific regulations. And then there is Pet Airways where the 

only passengers inside the plane are pets. Pet Airways now operates in 

eight cities. See www.petairways.com for more details. 

Grey Stafford, Director of Conservation and Communications at 

the Wildlife World Zoo & Aquarium, says many pet behavior problems 

can be avoided if the pet is given desensitization training. Some simple 

annoyances can develop into full-blown behavior crises if the animal 

is nervous about being put into a carrier or crate or not provided with 

distractions such as toys or chewing bones. Be sure you securely tape 

your contact information inside and outside the carrier in case of an 

emergency. You may wish to consider having a microchip implanted in 

the animal if you travel frequently. Microchips increase your chances 

considerably of recovering your pet if it gets lost. 

There are numerous websites to help the traveler who is planning 

road trips with their dogs. Ed “The Chauffeur” operates a website with 

his dog Prospect. The site http://K9RoadTrip.com contains an interactive 

U.S. map that highlights dog friendly places such as rest areas, dog 



Healthy Smiles Healthy Child 

parks and dog daycare centers in all areas of the continental United 

States. www.BringFido.com has an interactive map of the world listing 

dog friendly sites worldwide. www.Ilovedogfriendly.com has short 

articles on hiking, sailing or kayaking with dogs. 

Extra research on hotels is necessary. Even hotels that say they are 

pet-friendly may mean that they will allow only one or two small animals 

in the room. Most pet-friendly hotels will not allow pets to be left 

alone in the room. Some may provide a nearby doggie daycare center 

or be able to recommend one. 

When planning a road trip, it’s a good idea to take small trips 

to nearby locations to accustom the animal to car travel. Pack your 

pet’s usual food, water and a serving bowl. Place an old sweater or 

pillowcase in the carrier with a small pet and be sure that the carrier 

is securely fastened. (Remember Jack?) For large or older dogs, use a 

chest harness (and even rubber booties) so that they do not slip around. 

Pack a complete first aid kit for emergencies with medicine for motion 

sickness or tummy troubles and any other medications the pet takes. 

Don’t forget kitty litter or doggie pickup bags, a brush, hand sanitizer 

and treats. Add a few toys to keep the traveler distracted and happy. 

The day of the trip, allow extra time for check-in if flying. Feed 

pets a light meal four to six hours before traveling. Allow minimal water 

to avoid a full bladder during the flight. Exercise your pet to reduce 

stress and remove excess energy before boarding the plane or getting 

in the car. On road trips, allow extra time for potty breaks and exercise. 

Play extra soothing music instead of loud rock to avoid stress. ■ 

Meet Dr. Hemberger & his team... 

Why choose us? Our Expertise: 

• American Board Certified Pediatric Dentist for over thirty years. 

• Recipient of the prestigious Kansas Dentist of the Year 2010 Award. 

• Served as Secretary, Vice-President and President of the Kansas Dental Association. 

• Recipient of The Humanitarian Award from the Kansas Fifth District Dental Society. 

• Pediatric Dental Coordinator for the Kansas Mission of Mercy since 2002. 

• Appointed by the Governor to ser ve as a member of the Kansas Dental Board. 

• Our team of Dental Hygienists have over 20 years experience in Pediatric Dentistry. 

• Our office & dental assistants team has over 20 years of pediatric dental experience. 

Your Child is Our Commitment 

Pediatric Dental Specialist for Children & Teens 

Glenn V. Hemberger, D.D.S., M.S. 

We are excited and privileged to provide comprehensive dental and 

orthodontic care for children and teens including 

those with special needs. 

New Patients call today! 

(913) 345-0331 

hembergerpediatricdental.com 

8575 W. 110th, Ste. 310 

Overland Park, KS 66210 



herlife | just sayin’ 

Just Sayin’... 

by jenny matthews | photography by allyson cheney 

I 

want to tell you about my sister. Her name is Suzie and she’s the 

strongest woman I know. About four years ago, she got the phone 

call that would drop anyone to their knees. She was told her husband 

and all six of their children were involved in a car accident… 

that two of her children were taken to the trauma unit of the hospital 

and that her husband didn’t survive the crash. Thankfully, all of the 

children healed physically. But how would my sister ever survive? How 

would she face the world without her high-school sweetheart, turned 

husband? How would she raise six children all by herself? 

I have watched this woman, who I have looked up to since the 

day I was born, conquer it all with strength and grace. I know how 

overwhelmed I am some days raising just ONE child…I can’t imagine 

six. She’s the family taxi driver…she’s the mediator of sibling-fights… 

she’s the cook, the finance manager and she even knows how to fix 

broken household items now. On top of all that, she has gone back to 

school and will graduate with her Master’s this spring. Her dream? To 

be a children’s counselor. I know she’ll be the best. 

She has held tight to her faith, kept herself busy and kept the 

household running. But, one thing was missing. Someone to love, 

someone to share her life with. She’s such a beautiful woman inside 

and out. She didn’t know if she could ever love again—after all, Kevin 

was her first love. They met when she was just 16. She’s 40 now. Over 

the last four years, she has often said, “Who in the world is going to 

want THIS?” 

Well, my heart is absolutely spilling over with joy because she 

has found that someone. I knew he was out there; they just had to 

find each other. She can’t believe that her heart can love again. She 

honestly didn’t think it was possible. We’ll call it ‘Chapter 2.’ No one 

will ever ‘replace’ Kevin and the 20 beautiful years they spent together. 

But, I’m so excited to see what happens next in this amazing woman’s 

journey. ■ 

Jenny Matthews is Mix 93.3’s radio darling! She 

is the host of ‘The Jenny Matthews Show’ and 

has been happily married for seven years to 

caller number 9 (... ask her about that sometime!) 

“She is ... the sister everybody 

would want. She is the friend 

that everybody deserves.” 

– Oprah Winfrey 



herlife | hotties 


Kansas City Bachelor 

of the month 

Jamey Royer 

photography by david bickley photography 

Age: 33 

Occupation: Personal trainer at Hitch Fit 

What is your favorite movie? 

Troy and The Outsiders 

What is your favorite type of food? 

Steak or pizza 

Tell us something funny about you? 

I like chick flicks. 

What makes you unique? Never at a loss for words! 

Very outgoing, caring, loyal and kind of a softy! 

What do you look for in a woman? 

A girl who is sincere, independent and not trying to be the center of 

attention. If you cheat, you’re done! 

What makes a perfect first date? 

Laughter and good conversation! A good sporting event or concert 

would be nice. 

What makes you a HERLIFE hottie? 

That’s a loaded question! Believe it or not I’m pretty old-fashioned! I 

have a good sense of humor and am easy to talk to, as well as 

down-to-earth. 

Do you believe in love at first sight? 

Why? 

No, I think you have to know the person first. 

HOw do you want to be contacted? 

At Hitch Fit, 30th and Gillham, Kansas City, MO, or by phone at 

402-215-4676 - on Facebook at Hitchfit Jamey Royer. 

If you think you are a HERLIFE Hottie or know a HERLIFE Hottie, please 

email Lynese at lynese@herlifemagazine.com today to be considered! 


herlife | tie the knot 

& 

Karissa 

Tied the Knot July 30th 

by marilyn wright 

photography by MTVIDYO Weddings and 

peep toe photography 

Travis 

Karissa (Kari) Jean Nace was born in Iowa City, Iowa. She attended the 

University of Kansas for undergraduate school and fell in love with 

the area and never left. She moved to Kansas City in 2004 where she 

began her sales career. Kari, 31, currently resides in Westwood, Kansas, and is 

a clinical sales rep for Intuitive Surgical where her job is to identify and train 

surgeons to perform robotic surgery. Kari likes to run, work out, cook and hang 

out with TJ in her spare time. 

Travis Jade (TJ) Smith was born in Derby, Kansas. He attended the 

University of Kansas and also fell in love with the Kansas City metro area. TJ, 

34, works for Carefusion where he is a regional manager for the surgical prep 

division. TJ likes to play golf, watch sports, run and hang out with Kari in his 

spare time. 

Kari and TJ met in April 2008 at the Kansas City Power and Light District 

while watching the Jayhawks play UNC in the Final Four. They were both 

down there with friends and were briefly introduced. 

They were reintroduced a few weeks later when a couple of their mutual 



friends started “hanging out” and eventually they started dating in 

June. (Ironically the same two friends got engaged two months before 

they did and then married in May two months before Kari and TJ’s 

wedding!) 

Kari awoke the morning of what would be her last day of work 

before Christmas to a card from TJ. Inside contained four letters to be 

opened up as instructed by the card, at specific times throughout the 

day. TJ wrote that he wanted to celebrate their first Christmas living 

together right and to be home by 2:00 pm. 

Kari arrived home around 1:30 pm to open her last note which 

told her to pack an overnight bag, they were hitting the road. In true 

Kari fashion she had a semi-meltdown trying to decide what to pack 

before they were in the car and on their way. To Kari’s surprise TJ 

drove straight to the airport where they boarded a plane for New York 

City—their favorite holiday destination! 

Once in NYC, TJ had dinner reservations at their favorite spot, 

but beforehand wanted to walk down to Rockefeller Center to take 

some pictures and check out the Christmas tree. They walked in the 

cold evening weather and enjoyed the sights and took some pictures. 

After about five pictures and braving the crowded center Kari was ready 

to go to dinner, but TJ kept stalling saying he was taking in the sights. 

Finally ready to go, TJ said he wanted one more picture of them before 

leaving and had a guy take the picture. Afterwards to Kari’s dismay, he 

said he blinked and needed one more, at which time he got down on 

one knee and asked Kari to marry him as the tourist snapped a picture! 

The wedding took place on July 30, 2011. There were six bridesmaids 

and six groomsmen, along with four ushers, two flower girls and 

three ring bearers. Both Kari and TJ wanted a stylish and romantic 

wedding at a venue that was less traditional. After much research, they 



LOCAL BUSINESSES THAT 

SHARED IN THE LOVE 

Bridal gown: 

The Gown Gallery 

BRIDESMAIDS’ GOWNS: 

JCrew 

HAIR STYLING: 

Jaycee Waters 

Photography: 

Peep Toe Photography 

Florist: 

Beco Florist 

decided on the Hobbs Building, an older 

building in historic West Bottoms that has 

been transformed into an art studio and a wedding 

venue. They were married under the trees 

in the courtyard with a string quartet playing 

music in the background. Guests raved about 

the delicious, creative food provided by Feast of Fancy. 

The newlyweds went to Europe for two weeks. Ever since they started dating, they have 

always talked about going to Europe on vacation. They enjoyed the local sites and traditions of 

Barcelona, Venice, Florence, Rome and Ischia, and loved every minute of their two-week 

vacation! ■ 

CATERER: 

Feast of Fancy 

DJ: 

Nick Reddell Productions 

Videographer: 

MTVIDYO 

Venue: 

The Hobbs Building 






Kimberly 

& David 

Tied the Knot October 7th 


photography by rpm photography and cinematography 


Kim Gross was born and raised in Omaha, Nebraska, then moved to Kansas City with her family. She graduated from the 

University of Kansas and worked as an event planner briefly before returning to nursing school to pursue her true passion. 

Kim has worked as a nurse for six years and obtained a Master’s degree. She is a nurse practitioner for the cardiologists at 

Saint Luke’s Hospital in Kansas City where she plans to continue to expand her practice and knowledge. 

Dave Berthold was born in Waukegan, Illinois, but over the following six years he moved to Florida, New York, Virginia 

and Michigan, before returning to Illinois, as his father was in the Navy. Dave left Chicago to attend the University of 

Kansas, to branch out and meet new people. After graduating from Washburn with an Accounting Degree, Dave practiced 

for three years before finding his hidden talent in the medical field as a sales manager for a small medical distribution 

company. He has only started what is sure to be a lifelong love in medical sales and management. 

The couple met through mutual friends while hanging out at a nearby sports bar during a KU basketball 

game. The first conversation sparked such interest that they instantly spent all of their time together. Spending 

late nights talking endlessly and laughing started what would soon be true love. The beginning of 

their relationship coincided with the NCAA tournament, so rooting for the Jayhawks was something 

the bride and groom definitely had in common and have made it a tradition. 

Dave surprised Kim with a trip to Chicago on Michigan Avenue just three days before 

Christmas in 2010. It was a fun experience; the lights, the snow AND a ring! Fortunately, 

they got the chance to spend time with Dave’s family while in Chicago and 

then came home to Kim’s family and many friends with the exciting news of a 

wedding. 

The wedding took place on October 7, 2011, surrounded by their 

friends and family who were their biggest cheerleaders while dating. 

Both Dave’s brother and Kim’s brother served as the Best 

Men and Kim’s sister as Maid of Honor. Each Bridesmaid 

and Groomsman are dear friends of both the bride 

and the groom. 


Kim and Dave’s focus in planning 

their wedding was to make guests comfortable 

and have fun. That reflected in every 

detail from the Chicago slider dog bar as 

a nod to Dave’s hometown, complete with 

waffle fries and orange chipotle sauce, to 

the location of their ceremony and reception, 

which kept guests in close proximity 

to their hotels. The ceremony, which was 

written by the bride’s brother, was held in 

the ballroom of the beautifully renovated 

Indian Hills Country Club. While the bride 

and groom were photographed with their 

family and attendants and the room was 

being transformed for the reception, guests 

indulged in hors d’oeuvres and cocktails 

while being entertained by the cigar roller. 

Hosting both ceremony and reception at 

Indian Hills was convenient for all of their 

out-of-town guests. Every element of the 

décor glittered and shined, including their 

silver-leafed wedding cake topped with a 

Swarovski Crystal monogram. The eclectic 

mix of silver and gold was truly stunning. 

The couple enjoyed two weeks in Riviera 

Maya, Mexico, at Barceló where they 

vacationed two years prior. They selected 

the location for the beautiful beaches, 

exquisite cuisine and variety of activities 

offered within the resort. They were also 

able to visit Playa Del Carmen and Cozumel 

during their stay because of its close 

proximity. ■ 



Bridal gown: 

Bridal Extraordinaire 

Bridesmaids’ gowns: 

Bridal Extraordinaire 

Photography: 

RPM Photography 

and Cinematography 

Florist: 

KC Flower Girl 

Event Design and 

Event Coordination: 

Coordinately Yours 

CATERER: 

Indian Hills Country Club 

Cake: 


Venue: 





Tied the Knot 

Lisa 

October 21st 

& 

Aaron 


photography by rue2photography 

Lisa Renee Taranto was born in Jackson, Missouri, where her 

parents still live. She earned a basketball scholarship to a 

local community college and graduated from Murray State 

University in Kentucky with a degree in Broadcast Journalism. 

After graduation, Lisa worked for three years as “KC,” the Fox Kids 

Club Hostess at KBSI TV in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, before 

moving to St. Louis. While in St. Louis, Lisa worked as a planner/ 

sales representative for a corporate event company. After moving 

to Kansas City in 2002, her daughter Emmy was born, changing 

her life forever. These days Lisa pursues her passion as owner of 

FitChix KC—a company providing personal training, corporate 

fitness, and lifestyle and weight management consulting. She is also 

a freelance writer focusing on health and well-being. In her spare 

time, Lisa loves/hates tennis, enjoys nights out with girlfriends and 

“running off” those nights the day after. She can repeat almost 

verbatim lines from every Sex and the City episode and is known to 

occasionally indulge in chocolate brownie batter with Emmy. 

Aaron David Butler was born in Wichita but grew up in 




Bridal gown: 

My Love Dress 

tuxedo: 

Men’s Wearhouse & 

Tux Town Center Plaza 

make-up & 

Hair Styling: 

Melissa Blayton 

Photography: 

rue2photography 

Florist: 

Hy-Vee 

CATERER: 

Cupini’s Italian Catering 

Cake: 

SmallCakes – A Cupcakery 

groom’s Cake: 

Beverly Bishop Designs 

Venue: 

Ironwoods Lodge 

Leawood, KS 


Salina, Kansas. Aaron graduated from the University of Kansas, 

obtaining a degree in Mechanical Engineering. After college, 

Aaron moved to Kansas City and worked for Anderson Consulting 

(now Accenture) in its Product Development and Product 

Lifecycle Management consulting practice area. Over 13 years, 

Aaron helped a number of international companies with process 

improvement and IT system implementation projects. In 2010, 

Aaron started and co-founded a mobile application consulting 

company, Abbacore (www.abbacore.com) which helps companies 

design and develop mobile iPhone and iPad application solutions 

and is a Senior Principal there today. In his spare time, Aaron 

enjoys spending time with friends / family, playing tennis, golf, 

basketball, fly-fishing, traveling, cartooning / drawing and watching 

movies! 

Lisa and Aaron met on a blind date via their mutual friend. 

Their first date was at the Brookside eatery, Blue Grotto, on May 

25th, 2010. After sharing the antipasto platter and a few glasses of 

red wine, Lisa leaned over and said to Aaron, “Are you going to kiss 

me or not?!” 

kiss 

“Are you going 

to me or not?!” 

After a cold and brutally snowy winter in Kansas City, Aaron 

suggested the couple head south for a relaxing and warm weekend 

in Panama Beach, Florida. Little did Lisa know, two days earlier 

Aaron had phoned her parents and asked them if he could marry 

their daughter! That Saturday afternoon, the couple spent the 

day in the little picturesque town of Seaside, Florida, sightseeing 

and touring. Aaron had made special dinner reservations. Before 

dinner, just as the sun began to set, Aaron asked Lisa to take a walk 

with him on the beach. At first, the would-be bride was reluctant. 

The weather was chilly and she was hungry! But after some 

coaxing, Aaron managed to get Lisa to the beach. As they strolled 

along the water’s edge, Aaron turned to her, got down on one knee, 

opened the ring box and asked for her hand in marriage. She said 

yes, enthusiastically, and after some tears and a few enthusiastic 

phone calls to family and friends, they were officially engaged! 

The wedding took place on October 21, 2011, with Emmy 

Taranto as the Flower Girl. There were six attendants for the bride 

consisting of friends and family. The six Best Men and Groomsmen 

were brothers of the groom, friends and brother of the bride. 

After viewing several wedding venues, the couple took a peak 

at Ironwoods Lodge and knew the big, red beautiful barn was 

where they wanted their family and friends to help them celebrate 

their new life together. The Lodge offered a perfect autumn 

backdrop for a casual outdoor ceremony (officiated by Aaron’s 

stepdad) and gorgeous indoor setting for an Italian themed dinner 

prepared by Cupini’s restaurant, kid-friendly reception, music and 

dancing. 

After the wedding, the couple spent the rest of the weekend 

in Kansas City visiting with out-of-town family and friends and 

then set off for Paris, France. After a few days in the city of love, 

the couple traveled through Italy and ended their 12-day excursion 

with a quick tour of London, England. ■ 



herlife | in the city 

Calendar of Events 

NOTE: All calendar events must be received by February 5th for the March issue and adhere to our guidelines. 

E-mail casey@herlifemagazine.com for guidelines to submit entries. 

February 2 

Jeff Dunham: 

Controlled Chaos 

Location: Sprint Center 

1407 Grand Blvd., Kansas City, MO 

Date: 2/2/12 

Time: 7:30pm 

Details: The man whose standup concerts 

rule the comedy world, Jeff Dunham, announces 

a full slate of shows through March 

2012 that offers his millions of fans brand new 

laughs and hilarious additions to his famed 

troupe of sidekicks. 

Relief for Varicose Veins 

Location: Atrium Conference Room, The 

University of Kansas Hospital’s Westwood 

Campus (Richard and Annette Bloch Cancer 

Care Pavilion), 2330 Shawnee Mission 

Parkway, Westwood, KS 

Date: 2/2/12 

Time: 6pm-7:30pm 

Details: Join The University of Kansas 

Hospital’s Satish Ponnuru, MD, for an educational 

seminar on the treatment for unsightly 

and often painful varicose veins. This is a free 

Be Well! program. Registration is required by 

calling 913-588-1227 or visiting 

kumed.com/bewell. 

Storytelling Workshop 

Location: Ernie Miller Nature Center 

909 N Hwy 7 Olathe, KS 

Date: 2/2/12 

Time: 1pm-4pm or 5:30pm-8:30pm 

Details: Tap into the power of storytelling 

to entertain, educate, pass on family history or 

as a motivational tool. Participants will receive 

a professionally-produced, national award 

winning CD of stories told by presenters from 

Missouri, Kansas, Arkansas and Texas. Cost 

$20.00. For information contact Molly Postlewait, 

Park Naturalist, Johnson County Park & 

Recreation District at 913-764-7759 or 

molly.postlewait@jocogov.org 

February 3 

Ensemble Espanol 

Spanish Dance Theater 

Location: Johnson County 

Community College, 12345 College Blvd., 

Overland Park, KS 

Date: 2/3/12 

Time: 8pm 

Details: Smooth and sultry...a beat with 

heat, elegance and passion are showcased 

when ten sensational dancers, singers and 

instrumentalists grace the stage to promote 

and preserve Spanish dance culture in all its 

forms. You’ll enjoy classical Spanish dance, 

folkloric works, as well as Flamenco! Ensemble 

Español moves with extraordinary grace to 

impress dance audiences everywhere. 

February 4 

Amazing African American 

Art Workshop 

Location: National Frontier Trails 

Museum, 318 W. Pacific, Independence, MO 

Date: 2/4/12 

Time: 10am to noon 

Details: Have a marvelous time sculpting, 

painting, creating and exploring the world of 

African American art. Instructor Sarah Poff 

has taught art locally for over 25 years. Wear 

appropriate clothes, as some projects are fun, 

but messy. $10 per person, advance 

reservations required. 816-325-7575 or 

frontiertrailsmuseum.org. 

February 7 

Pain Management 

Location: Kansas City Cancer Center 

(KCCC)-Shawnee Mission, 9301 W. 74th St., 

Suite 100, Shawnee Mission, KS 

DateS: 2/7/12 

TimeS: 5pm-6pm 

Details: Learn concrete strategies to target 

the thoughts, emotions and actions that often 

make pain a challenging and overwhelming 

experience in “Pain Management.” This free, 

community program is offered by Kansas City 

Cancer Center in association with Turning 

Point: The Center for Hope and Healing. For 

more information and/or to make the required 

reservation, call Sami Papacek at 913-577- 

5834 or visit kccancercenter.com/wellness. 

February 10 

Kansas City Remodeling 

Show 

Location: American Royal Complex 

1701 American Royal Ct., Kansas City, MO 

DateS: 2/10/12-2/12/12 

TimeS: 10am-9pm, Fri. & Sat.; 

10am-6pm, Sun. 

Details: The Remodeling Show is Kansas 

City’s only consumer show dedicated to the 

remodeling and home improvement industries. 

For more than twenty years, hundreds 

of thousands of consumers have shopped the 

Remodeling Show for the leading contractors, 

product suppliers and home service providers. 

With a focus on quality, variety, and the 

newest products and services, the Remodeling 

Show targets project-minded consumers who 

wish to enhance their homes, living environments 

and lifestyles. More than 300 exhibitors 

will offer the latest products, services and 


ideas for turning a house into the home you 

have always wanted. See why the Kansas City 

Remodeling Show is the number one show 

homeowners trust to bring their ideas to life. 

Kansas City Remodeling 

Show 

Location: American Royal Complex 

1701 American Royal Ct., Kansas City, MO 

DateS: 2/10/12-2/12/12 

TimeS: 10am-9pm, Fri.-Sat.; 

10am-6pm, Sun. 

Details: The Metropolitan Lawn & Garden 

Show is Kansas City’s premier consumer 

Show dedicated to the green industry. Products 

and services exhibited include landscaping, 

power equipment, statuary, lawn maintenance, 

water gardens, decks, seeds, plants and 

bulbs, patio furniture, mulch, bird houses and 

baths, trees, shrubbery, fountains, gazebos, 

fencing, driveways, stonework, pottery, garden 

tools, fertilizer, water garden accessories, and 

ornamental outdoor decor. 

February 11 

Disney’s Phineas and Ferb: 

The Best Live Tour Ever! 

Location: Independence Events Center, 

19100 E Valley View Pkwy., 

Independence, MO 

Date: 2/11/12 

Time: 1pm 

Details: Join the Danville Tri-State Area 

Gang for a high-energy ride through their 

wildest invention yet in Disney’s Phineas and 

Ferb: The Best LIVE Tour Ever! The beloved 

characters from Disney Channel’s animated 

series embark on a bold escape from the 

television screen to a live action adventure - 

right in your hometown! ITickets are available 

at the Independence Events Center Box 

Office, Ticketmaster.com, all Ticketmaster 

outlets and by calling Ticketmaster at 1-800- 

745-3000. To find out more about Disney’s 

Phineas and Ferb: The Best LIVE Tour Ever!, 

go to PhineasAndFerbLive.com, or visit us on 

Facebook and YouTube. 

Laura’s Legacy 

Location: Ernie Miller Nature Center 909 

N Hwy. 7, Olathe, KS 

Date: 2/11/12 

Time: 10am-noon 

Details: Celebrate the birthday of Laura Ingalls 

Wilder, beloved author and early Kansas 

pioneer. Family event with old- fashioned activities. 

Call 913-764-7759 for reservations and 

more information. Reservations are required. 

Cost $7/$8 for non-residents. 

February 12 

The Barn Players Xanadu 

Auditions 

Location: St. Pius School, third floor 

55th and Woodson in Mission, Kansas 

Date: 2/12/12-2/13/12 

Details: The Barn Players, the area’s oldest 

community theatre, located at 6219 Martway 

in Mission, Kansas, has announced audition 

dates and location for Xanadu in the theatre’s 

2012, 57th consecutive season. Audition 


appointments are not necessary and those 

auditioning should be prepared to sing (if auditioning 

for a musical) and do a cold reading. 

For more information visit thebarnplayers. 

org or contact Eric Magnus at emagnitude@ 

me.com 

February 14 

Tie The Knot! 

Location: The City Market 

20 E 5th St., Ste. 201, Kansas City, MO 

Date: 2/14/12 

Time: Noon-3pm 

Details: Thinking about getting married? 

Want a very unique and affordable way to 

celebrate your love? Come to “Tie The Knot” 

at the City Market on Valentine’s Day! Every 

15 minutes, FREE wedding ceremonies will 

take place, complete with flowers and cake! 

Be one of the 12 special couples to say “I 

Do” and “Tie The Knot”! Open to Missouri 

residents only. 

February 15 

Yoga for Heart Rhythm 

Location: Multipurpose Room, The 

University of Kansas Hospital’s Westwood 

Campus (Richard and Annette Bloch Cancer 

Care Pavilion), 2330 Shawnee Mission Parkway, 

Westwood, KS 

Date: 2/15/12 

Time: 6pm-7:30pm 

Details: Can finding your inner peace also 

slow your racing heart? Persons with atrial 

fibrillation frequently require medication and 

invasive treatment. The University of Kansas 

Hospital’s heart rhythm specialist, Dhanunjaya 

Lakkireddy, MD, hopes the calming 

effects of yoga also may provide a noninvasive, 

medication-free treatment option. In “Yoga for 

Heart Rhythm,” Dr. Lakkireddy will discuss 

atrial fibrillation. And, Jennifer Parker, certified 

yoga instructor, will invite you to take 

part in a yoga demonstration. The demonstration 

will include poses you can try from 

the hospital’s clinical study, Yoga My Heart, 

which tracks patients with irregular heart 

rhythms as they practice yoga. Registration 

for this free Be Well! program is required by 

calling 913-588-1227 or visiting kumed.com/ 

bewell. 

February 17 

Third Friday Englewood Art 

Walk 

Location: 10900 E. Winner Road, 

Independence, MO 

Date: 2/17/12 

Time: 5:00pm-9:00pm 

Details: The galleries in the Englewood 

Station Shopping District, Winner and 

Sterling Roads open their doors to art lovers. 

See artists in action, demonstrations and live 

music, refreshments and a chance to get up 

close and personal with locally produced 

prints, photography, oils, sculpture, jewelry 

and mixed media. Free. 816-252-3372 or 

englewoodstation.com. 


February 18 

Firehouse Poker 

Tournament 

Location: Shark’s, 10320 Shawnee Mission 

Parkway, Shawnee Mission, KS 

Date: 2/18/12 

Time: 11am-6pm 

Details: A benefit for Love Fund For Children. 

Each paid registration includes lunch 

and an official event T-shirt in just your size! 

We also have a fabulous silent auction. 1st 

Place Prize to top player 42” Samsung Plasma 

1080 HDTV! (and other great prizes for 

players who make it to the “Final 8” table!). 

816-932-9170. 

2012 Kansas City Garden 

Symposium 

Location: The Nelson-Atkins Museum of 

Art, Kansas City, MO 

Date: 2/18/12 

Time: 8:30am-3:30pm 

Details: Let’s celebrate “Grow the Good 

Life” at the 2012 Kansas City Garden Symposium 

sponsored by the Garden Center 

Association of Greater Kansas City and Powell 

Gardens. Four speakers have been lined up: 

Dan Heims, co-founder of Terra Nova Nurseries, 

which has introduced hundreds of plants 

in our gardens; Roy Diblik, owner of Northwind 

Perennials, a Chicago-area nursery and 

garden center, who wants to coach you on 

smart gardening; Ellen Ecker Ogden, cofounder 

of the Cook’s garden seed catalog and 

author of four books, including From the 

Cook’s Garden and her newest, The Complete 

Kitchen Garden; and Andrea Bellamy, author 

of the 2010 book Sugar Snaps and Strawberries: 

Simple Solutions for Creating Your Own 

Small-Space Edible Garden. The cost is $79/ 

person before Jan. 13 and $89/person after. 

Ellen Ecker Ogden also plans to conduct 

cooking a workshop on “Savory Tarts From 

Your Garden” at the Whole Foods Market 

Cooking Studio, 91st and Metcalf in Overland 

Park, KS.To register, go to 

shop.powellgardens.org or call 816-697-2600, 

ext. 209. 

February 21 

Michael Jackson THE 

IMMORTAL World Tour by 

Cirque du Soleil 



Dates: 2/21/12-2/22/12 

Time: 8:00pm 

Details: Cirque du Soleil will be bringing 

Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World 

Tour, written and directed by Jamie King. 

In partnership with the Estate of Michael 

Jackson, this once-in-a-lifetime electrifying 

production will use Cirque du Soleil creativity 

to give fans worldwide a unique view into the 

spirit, passion and heart of the artistic genius 

who forever transformed global pop culture. 

Girls’ Night In: A Culinary 

Celebration for the Heart 

Location: Portfolio Kitchen & Home 

215 W. Pershing, Kansas City, MO 

Date: 2/21/12 

Time: 6pm 

Details: Mix and mingle with your girlfriends 

as top chefs prepare heart-healthy 

tastings with select wine pairings! This year’s 

7th annual Girls’ Night In will feature four of 

Kansas City’s premier chefs making magic in 

gourmet kitchens—Megan Garrelts, of bluestem; 

Debbie Gold, of The American Restaurant; 

Jennifer Maloney, of Cafe Sebastienne; 

and Celina Tio, of JULIAN. Hosted by The 

University of Kansas Hospital, the evening 

event will feature fun, food and friendship, 

and is designed to increase awareness about 

women’s heart disease. Proceeds benefit A 

Change of Heart®, The University of Kansas 

Hospital’s women’s heart health program. 

Tickets are limited! Please visit achangeofheartkc.org 

or call 913-588-8888 for details. 

February 22 

Freedom Sisters: Stamping, 

Shouting & Singing Home 

Location: Coterie Theatre 


Dates: 2/22/12-3/4/12 

Time: Varies 

Details: It is 1950s America, the Deep 

South; a world on the verge of change but still 

tainted by everyday injustices and the remnants 

of slavery. “In my family there’s dead 

people hopping in and out of the conversation 

all the time.” One of those dead people 

is Lizzie’s great-great-great grandmother, 

Sojourner Truth, freedom fighter of slavery, 

whose voice could not be silenced. As Lizzie 

unpacks the past, she listens to Sojourner, 

and in the process, discovers her own voice... 

fearless, joyful, full of resolve. 

February 24 

The Barn Players presents 

How to Succeed in Business 

without Really Trying 

Location: 6219 Martway, Mission, KS 

Dates: 2/24/12-3/11/12 

TimeS: Call for details 

Details: The Barn Players, the area’s oldest 

community theatre, starts its 57th consecutive 

season in 2012 with the wonderful musical 

comedy How to Succeed in Business without 

Really Trying. Tickets are $18.00 and may be 

ordered via phone or online. Call 

800-838-3006 or visit thebarnplayers.org 

February 25 

Flights and Kites 

Location: Charles B. Wheeler Signature 

Flight Support Hangar, Kansas City, MO 

Date: 2/25/12 

Time: 5:30pm-8:00pm 

Details: Flights and Kites is a celebration 

of food and wine. Your reservation includes 

tasting pours of a variety of wines, lots of local 


food, and a wine glass with this year’s logo. 

The fun begins at 5:30 pm and lasts until 8:00 

pm. For more information and to purchase 

tickets, please visit: flightsandkites.blogspot. 

com 

Hoops and Sneakers Gala 

Location: Sheraton Kansas City Hotel 

Crown Center, Kansas City, MO 

Date: 2/25/12 

Time: 6pm 

Details: Co-chairs Patricia Speier and Elena 

Wahbeh are planning an elegant and fun evening 

to celebrate the sixth annual gala; event 

features live and silent auctions, cocktails, 

hors d’oeuvres, program, dinner, and dancing. 

Ladies, get your fanciest hoop earrings 

ready, and men, put on your lucky sneakers!; 

Sheraton Kansas City Hotel at Crown Center; 

6 p.m.; $150. Contact Linda Crider: 10580 

Barkley Street, Suite 400, Overland Park, KS 

66212 or 913-383-8210 or lcrider@diabetes. 

org or diabetes.org/hoopsandsneakers. 

Taste of Leavenworth 

Location: Leavenworth Plaza 

3400 S 4th St., Leavenworth, KS 

Date: 2/25/12 

Time: 5:30pm-10pm 

Details: Sampling of Leavenworth county’s 

finest food, beverages, music, businesses, 

artisans & an auction. 

Wounds that Heal Art 

Exhibit 

Location: : Leopold Gallery 

324 W. 63rd St., Kansas City, MO 

Date: 2/25/12 

Time: 6:30pm-9pm 

Details: A night of art and celebrating healing 

and hope! Become aware of teen dating 

violence issues and the work of Newhouse 

domestic violence shelter. Enjoy healing- and 

hope-inspired artwork by local artists, poetry, 

a silent auction and refreshments. For more 

information or to submit artwork, contact: 

Chandra Clark, 816-462-0503, Community- 

Relations@NewhouseShelter.org 

George Strait 



Date: 2/25/12 

Time: 7:30pm 

Details: Sprint Center, Kansas City’s awardwinning 

arena, will again welcome the King 

of Country on Feb. 25. Year after year, night 

after night, Strait shows fans a good time 

whether on the road or on the radio. In April 

2010, George Strait set the venue’s attendance 

record for a concert. This year he’s invited another 

award-winning country music superstar, 

Martina McBride, to join him on stage. 



herlife | horoscope 

Star Journeys 

by john sandbach 

Things can feel a little blurry and out of focus this month, but this is not a bad thing, for it can 

help us redefine who we are and where we are going. This is a month for understanding our 

values on a deeper level, and also finding new things of value. It’s also a time when we need to 

question our stubbornness, and when we do we are likely to find that in some ways we may need to be 

more stubborn, while in other contexts we need to soften a little and become more flexible. 

Scorpio 

(October 23-November 21): 

You could be feeling very nostalgic now and experience 

deep memories and yearnings. Don’t allow this 

to keep you from realizing the promise and joy that the 

present moment holds. You are not quite at the point 

of new beginnings, but you’re very close, and the more 

you clear the way for what is to come and welcome it, 

the stronger and more vibrant your future will be. 

Aquarius 

(January 21-February 18): 

It can be quite surprising now how whatever you need 

suddenly appears. Be very aware of seeming coincidences, 

for they are trying to tell you something important. 

And when you get the urge to go somewhere or 

contact someone, do it. Be impulsive and spontaneous 

in the way you relate, for if you follow the whim of the 

moment, you might find that it’s a seed that grows into 

something wonderful. 

Taurus 

(April 20-May 20): 

If there are situations you have felt a hard time dealing 

with, or getting into, or understanding, you may 

be presented this month with a door you either overlooked, 

or which has just recently appeared. It’s a 

month of exploring, and what you’re exploring may 

be kind of mysterious or uncertain. But if you just 

go with it you can find that you’re a better detective 

than you ever thought you were. 

Leo 

(July 23-August 22): 

This can be a very abundant and fruitful month, a 

month of prosperity and profusion. But this may come 

in ways you don’t expect and from sources you aren’t 

aware of. Others will need your help and the more 

generously you give it to them the more you will find 

that the universe will be generous with you. Say “yes” 

to it all and the “yes” will bring even more. 

Sagittarius 

(November 22-December 21): 

The best way to get what you want now is to take a 

very light and easy approach to it. Be subtle and show 

your appreciation, for this will help to increase the 

flow of good things coming to you. If changes occur 

that you would have rather not seen happen make the 

best of them, because they are most certainly there 

for a purpose in your life, and are going to lead you to 

better things. 

Pisces 

(February 19-March 20): 

You need to slow down and take in gradually and 

thoroughly whatever is happening to you. Don’t let 

people or situations push you. If you feel confused, let 

it be, for something positive will come out of it as long 

as you don’t try to jump to conclusions or rush things. 

If you maintain yourself in a good place it’s going to 

bring harmony to all situations you find yourself in, so 

stay on a bright wavelength. 

Gemini 

(May 21-June 21): 

This is your month to have “aha” moments—and 

you’re likely to have a lot of them. Things that 

are difficult or sticky can lighten up a lot. Do you 

realize that what is really lightening up is you? 

When your attitude changes it can induce beautiful 

changes in the outer world. Your inner knowing is 

there—all you need to do is find it, or better yet, let 

it find you. 

Virgo 

(August 23-September 22): 

You need to let go of any old ways of doing things that 

aren’t working and find new ways of meeting your 

challenges. Don’t be afraid to fail–anyone who experiments 

are bound to encounter some blind alleys–it’s 

all part of a learning experience. If you feel inclined, 

cast your seeds everywhere, something is bound to take 

root and grow. Don’t hold back—keep on the move 

and things will begin, eventually, to move for you. 

Capricorn 

(December 22-January 19): 

It’s good now to be detached in a certain sense from 

your emotions. Don’t deny or repress them, but also 

don’t get too caught up in them. Let them be what 

they are and observe them from a calm place. You 

need good advice now, so find someone whose opinion 

you respect and listen to what they have to say. You’re 

in transition now, so treat yourself gently and be 

patient with the changes afoot. 

Aries 

(March 21-April 19): 

This month for you is all about things that are difficult 

and things that are hard to take in, but any progress 

you make in these areas will be wonderful. Realize 

what you’re up against and how well you’re doing in 

the face of it, and your frustrations will fade. You are 

likely to engage in some really rewarding tasks now. 

Notice I didn’t say “easy.” 

Cancer 

(June 22-July 22): 

You may be playing with fire this month, but you 

have every capacity to do it successfully; just make 

sure you wear your asbestos gloves. You are surrounded 

by intensity now. It all feels like a meeting 

in which something is getting hammered out and 

pinned down—a lot of work, but the end result is 

something substantial and dependable. Don’t be 

afraid of others’ desires—or your own. 

Libra 

(September 23-October 22): 

You are working now on issues of self-gratification 

and satisfaction. You may strongly feel like indulging 

yourself, but if you are doing this out of frustration you 

may want to rethink situations and find something that 

is going to be truly satisfying in the long run, rather 

than just a temporary fix. Remember that a little bit of 

play and fun can go a long way toward enhancing your 

capacity to work.

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