COMMON TRAVEL MISTAKES + SENIOR GRADUATION PARTY TIPS Ana DODSON BOOKS, TEDDY BEARS AND A PROMISE 2 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 3 HERLIFE CONTENTS ® staff & contacts Editor-In-Chief Linnore Gonzales [email protected] 303-630-0979 ext. 2 Managing Editor Lianne Martin [email protected] 303-630-0979 ext. 702 Account Executives Pam Bourdo [email protected] 303-630-0979 ext. 705 Judi Fulton [email protected] 303-630-0979 ext. 701 Editor Marilyn Isaminger Art Director Sarah Abend [email protected] Associate Art Directors Ashleigh Thomson, Paige Fisher Advertising Art Director Elana Bell [email protected] Contributing Authors Judi Fulton, Linnore Gonzales, Marilyn Isaminger, Kathleen M. Krueger, Candi Smith, Laura Leiva, Hope Ferguson, Lindsay Laderoute, Lisa Taranto Butler, Patty Cook, and Gail Silverstein Contributing Photographers JM PhotoArt, Lightbox Images Photography, Kristen Sink, Garrett Ammon, Amanda Tipton, Nahesa Productions, and Jason Hayes Photography To contact HERLIFE® Magazine 9337 Commerce Center Street #C-2 Highlands Ranch, CO 80129 Phone: 303-630-0979 For Advertising call 303-630-0979 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. Sources Sources for all articles can be found online at www.herlifemagazine.com HERLIFE® Magazine of Denver is operated locally by Nahesa Productions, LLC, an independently owned and operated franchisee of HERLIFE® Magazine, LLC. To reach national headquarters, call 913-402-6994. © 2014 by HERLIFE® Magazine. All rights reserved. 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We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback. 4 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM features 14 16 28 42 20 06 Welcome From The Publisher 08 Editor’s Picks A Roundup Of Top Products 10 Health Dental Health 12 Green Living Green Weddings 14 Beauty Facts And Myths About Beauty Procedures 16 Inspirations Ana Dodson A Little Girl With A Big Heart 20 Mother’s Perspective Senior Graduation 22 Pets Exotic Pets 24 Travel Common Travel Mistakes 26 Real Estate What To Look For In A Neighborhood 28 Home Design Tips From The Professionals 30 Home and Design Tips For Decorating Large Spaces 42 Culinary Culinary Cruises 44 Cravings Rialto Cafe 46 She Said Yes Emily And Graham 32 Trendsetter Wonderbound Presents 48 ”Love” 38 Fitness Special Section 40 What Keeps You Fit? 50 Tie The Knot Anna And Hunter Scene and Be Seen Trista Sutter Book Signing HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 5 HERLIFE WELCOME is customer service dead? D uring the past few months, I have had the opportunity to offered to re-order my car again as I specified and wanted it. I picked up the experience different levels of customer service from various replacement car in December and have been very happy, not only because I companies. From the restaurant where we had our holiday have the seat warmers I originally wanted but also because Mercedes Benz gathering, to places I took my family visiting from New York of Littleton went above and beyond to during the busy holiday season, to stores at the mall, I expe- make sure I was going to be a happy rienced levels of service ranging from what I would consider excellent to client! This is definitely what I would not-so-good. I was not totally surprised with what I found. Being a business call superb customer service! Thank owner myself, I know how important it is to provide the best service you you, Zander and Wayne! can to your clients and customers. Customer service is what can set you I may have had experiences that apart from your competition, especially when the market is as tough as it is were not up to the level of the service now. So is customer service dead? Let’s take my recent experience as an Mercedes Benz of Littleton gave me, example. but most companies and establish- In October last year, I received an email from my sales representative at ments I dealt with had wonderful, Mercedes Benz of Littleton, who let me know that the car I custom ordered friendly and customer-oriented employ- had arrived and was in the dealership ready for us to do paperwork to bring ees who made my experiences pleas- the car home. My husband and I excitedly went one Saturday morning to ant. Overall, giving excellent customer Mercedes Benz of Littleton to complete the paperwork. As we were inspect- service is very much here to stay, and ing the car, my husband noticed that the seat warmers we ordered were not most businesses (thank God!) know it! included. The dealer offered to install seat warmers, which we ended up not p h o to by j a s o n h aye s ph o t o gr a phy loving because they were not the same as the factory-installed ones that I used to have in my old Mercedes. To make us happy, keep our business and make sure our experience with the dealership was satisfactory, they stay tuned... 6 Look for the March issue, when we feature Jennifer Jasinski, Denver’s multiple award-winning chef and restaurateur. HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM Li n n o re G o n z a l e s facebook.com/herlifedenver twitter @herlifedenver1 HERLIFE EDITOR’S PICKS editor’s picks tEco Vessel® Eco Vessel offers a diverse line of reusable water bottles for adults, kids and toddlers, all developed to be stylish, durable and affordable. This innovative product line includes insulated stainless steel water bottles, double wall glass water bottles, Tritan BPA-free straw bottles, water filter bottles, insulated sippy cups and environmentally friendly food storage products. All products are BPA and phthalate free, recyclable and environmentally friendly. Featuring TriMax® triple insulation technology, the BOULDER has been tested to keep water cold for up to 36 hours and hot up to 8 hours. It’s perfect for water, tea, coffee, soup or just about any drink, and its tight screw-on top will keep your drink securely inside where it belongs. Its wide mouth easily accommodates ice cubes and its comfortable drinking spout is a convenient feature. Also included is a removable tea strainer/ice dam. The Boulder is a sturdy, high-quality, stylish vacuum insulated steel water bottle for the office, tennis courts, golf course, on the trails…anyplace, anytime. Ecovessel.com. p Apera Tech Pack Apera bags are Evolved from Sport, Designed for Business™. The Apera Tech Pack is the world’s most versatile backpack, whether for business, sport, travel or any other need. This bag adapts and transitions from the meeting room to the gym to your next business trip, while carrying all of the items you need. The two enormous pockets on the front for shoes are an amazing feature. The immense interior storage capacity holds a Knix Wear u change of clothes and a set of your workout gear. Your laptop and tablet are protected in Knix Wear has created high-tech two separate padded pockets. For travelers, knickers that perfectly pair high per- there’s a pass-through area for securing it to formance fabrics with stylish designs your rolling suitcase handle. Like all Apera to keep you feeling fresh all day long. bags, they have antimicrobial product protec- Each pair of knickers features their tion to resist bacterial odor, vented pockets, patented Fresh Fix Technology™ to wipeable linings and a separate washable keep you feeling confident and sexy in insert. Your sport bag means business—just the warmer months. knixwear.com. like you do. 855-273-7200 or aperabags.com. 8 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM PARK Luxury Sporting Accessories® Northern Lights Ski Bag u This beautiful bag constructed of Italian coated canvas with leather trim sports the signature PARK crest shape, nickel hardware and a metal zipper. The padded bag holds two pairs of skis with securing straps; three leather carrying handles provide flexibility for handling, as does the detachable, adjustable ribbed cotton shoulder strap with leather shoulder pad. It’s complete with the interior PARK signature multiple pocket detail and leather luggage tag and your choice of red, navy or black. Dimensions are 65” x 10¾” x 6½”. With the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympic Games in sight, now is the perfect time to showcase your athletic spirit with PARK Luxury Sporting Accessories. Whether you are a world class athlete or an avid fan, PARK has the most luxurious gear ranging from Italian coated canvas ski bags and leather trimmed totes to cozy cashmere blankets. parkaccessories.com. Heat®Holdersu As far as it is known and has ever been tested, these socks are the warmest thermal socks in the world, with a proven 2.34 TOG rating. Heat Holders are seven times warmer than normal cot- qESARSI shoes ton socks and are designed to keep toes toasty ESARSI shoes reflect the distinct, warm no matter what the weather brings. With cosmopolitan sensibility of Denver-based, different styles available to make them perfect dynamic mother-daughter duo, Rosalie for all the family, these socks are sure to keep and Stacey Cooper. Melding Italian the cold at bay; they now come in a variety of craftsmanship with edgy yet elegant beautiful colors to ensure that your feet are both design, ESARSI shoes are geared to warm and stylish when out and about in the chilly women much like Rosalie and Stacey weather! The sock’s unique long looped thermal themselves—sophisticated women with a pile, soft brushed inner and advanced insulating unique style of combining contemporary yarn are all designed to make sure that your feet class with a modern edge. Exquisite will stay really warm and comfortable. Other prod- details and forms borrowed from the ucts in the Heat Holders range are hats, gloves, boys give ESARSI a masculine edge while underwear, leggings and tights. heatholders.com; Swarovski crystals and soft, luxurious Twitter: @HeatHolderUSA; materials maintain elegance. Excess facebook.com/heatholdersusa. style made up of metallic décor and zippers distinguish the timeless ESARSI collection. High-heeled sandals, boots, wedges and flats make up the collection of alluring statement-piece footwear for women around the globe. ESARSI shoes are available at A Line Boutique, located in Greenwood Village, in the Village Shops at The Landmark and at Goldyn, located in the Lower Highland neighborhood of Denver. The shoes are also available online at esarsi.com. Pictured: Alessia (L) and Sofia Black Bootie (R) HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 9 HERLIFE HEALTH dental health by l a u ra l e i va M ost of us have been brushing and flossing our teeth since evening, for optimal benefit. Changing out the toothbrush three to four an early age, but do you think that’s all you need to know times annually is also important, as the bristles wear down and don’t clean about maintaining proper dental health? Our teeth are gums and teeth as well as they should. Those suffering from arthritis or essential to daily life. They give us a boost of confidence other conditions that make it hard to hold a toothbrush might do exception- when we smile and help break food down as we eat, so ally well with electronic brushes or toothbrush styles with a large foam grip. it makes sense to take care of them in the best way possible to ensure adequate oral health and prevent tooth decay or dental disease. The notion of brushing teeth is one of the first actions we learned as Positioning the toothbrush correctly is effective in cleaning teeth and gums. Holding the brush at an angle so the bristles encounter gums helps overall dental health, as well as brushing all surfaces of the teeth and children and is a vital step in keeping the teeth and gums healthy; many tongue. The location in which you store your toothbrush is equally as im- experts assert that proper brushing techniques are the foundation of a portant. The American Dental Association advises keeping the toothbrush healthy mouth. While brushing the teeth is fairly straightforward, we likely stored upright after use and allowing it to air dry; covering damp bristles aren’t doing a good enough job. According to the American Dental As- can actually encourage bacterial growth over time! sociation, there are proper techniques to implement in your daily brushing routine that will make cleansing effective and thorough. Oral hygienists recommend brushing twice a day, in the morning and 10 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM Flossing is an important step in dental health that many of us omit from the daily schedule. A survey provided through WebMD found that only half of all American adults floss daily, a disappointing result for many dentists, After meals, chewing a piece of sugar-free gum is a great way to encourage natural cleansing in between brushing. Through the action of chewing gum, saliva flow is stimulated to neutralize acid and rinse bacteria. harmful components in oral health. Tobacco stains the teeth and increases the risk of tooth decay, oral cancer and gum diseases, while sugar breaks down tooth enamel and increases the risk of decay. Orthodontia provide an assortment of benefits to adults, and improvements have vastly minimized the need for those dreaded braces many of us experienced as teens. Cosmetic braces and treatments provide adults with a range of options in a short amount of time and offer less invasive or costly solutions. Clear braces or retainers are an effective way to align as they stress flossing is one of the key factors in preventing tooth loss teeth without allowing the wearer to feel self-conscious, and the reduced and periodontal disease. Be gentle when flossing! Avoid pushing the floss treatment times are a substantial difference from traditional braces. up into gums, which can cause bleeding or soreness. Though flossing might Going in for frequent dental health checks is a great way to stay on top feel like an extra step in an already hectic morning or evening, removing of healthy teeth and gums. The American Dental Association recommends bits of food or plaque from between the teeth is worth the added benefit of a checkup and cleaning every six months to remove harmful plaque that preventing decay or oral disease. isn’t managed through daily brushing and flossing. During the checkup, After meals, chewing a piece of sugar-free gum containing xylitol is a the dentist will also look for early signs of oral cancer, tooth decay and great way to encourage natural cleansing in between brushing. Through gum disease, in addition to examining the structure of the teeth. Bruxism, the action of chewing gum, saliva flow is stimulated to neutralize acid and or grinding of teeth which takes place during times of stress or tension, rinse bacteria; however, rinsing the mouth with an antibacterial solution causes harmful wear and tear on the teeth. when brushing and after meals is a recommended step in daily oral health habits. Through proper cleaning and daily hygiene habits, many of the common diseases and decay can be prevented. A few minutes each day are all you Diet and lifestyle affect dental health as much as they influence other need to adequately brush and floss to ensure decades of healthy gum tis- areas of the body. A balanced diet provides nutrients to teeth and gums, sue and teeth. Prevention is key—early detection of gum disease or tooth keeping them strong and functioning. Vegetables, whole grains, dairy and decay through proper oral health techniques and frequent checkups can fruits should all be a part of a healthy diet. Sugar and tobacco are two prevent harmful issues down the road. HLM HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 11 HERLIFE GREEN LIVING green weddings by l i sa ta ra n to b u tl e r P lanning the perfect wedding can be exciting and unique to your personal tastes. Friends and family look forward to sharing a little bit of your and your partner’s style while congratulating you on the start of the rest of your lives as a couple. The path to a beautiful wedding can be earth-friendly as well as fabulous. Why not put your best foot forward with a few green wedding ideas and begin your marriage journey with an eco-friendly footprint? With This Ring Why not chuck the idea of wedding favors all together? Instead, leave guests feeling giddy after making a donation to a charity of your choice in their name. Or go the edible route and give your guests a homemade treat or delicious delight from a local bakery or farmers’ market. The engagement ring is the official launch of a wedding journey, but most large mining practices take a toll on the local environment. You could large resorts typically use lots of electricity and water, why not incorporate try to lessen your carbon handprint by investigating and purchasing an ethi- nature in your plans from the get-go? Small churches, parks, farms and cally mined gem, but often this information is too vague to decipher, even meadows can provide an amazing backdrop for the most beautiful day of with careful examination. Why not go vintage and use a family heirloom your life. The changing leaves of autumn can provide a variety of colors to seal the deal, or buy a used engagement ring that you both adore? By and textures, while a spring wedding may offer new blooms and a touch of combining antique gemstones with recycled metal, just about any preser- greenery. Think beyond the standard setting for the base of your big day vation-minded couple can make beautiful bling for the beloved left hand. and congregate in one of nature’s lovely locations. Location Invitations One of the first major decisions a soon-to-be bride and groom must make together is the venue for those vows. Since hotel ballrooms and 12 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM Although many couples choose to help the environment with evites and word-of-mouth invitations, nothing says “Please Join Us” more than a good old fashioned letter from the U.S. Postal Service. Look for invitations made from 100 percent recycled paper, and forgo the excess envelopes Food The catering at a wedding is the talk of the party—either a scrump- and RSVP cards in favor of tallying responses via a wedding website. If tious success or a failed food flop. Ensure the conversation about your Aunt Dorothy isn’t comfortable with the computer, give her a call to check food is fabulous. Organic food can be quite costly compared to typical ca- her attendance status. On the flip side, stay away from using the “en- tering, so make sure to account for the extra cash in your budget. Choose vironmentally conscious” cause when it comes to sending a thank you a farm-to-table caterer to cut down on waste and electricity. Fresh food acknowledgement. Appreciation of gifts is best said with a handwritten needs less packaging and less time in the fridge. Include your caterer in note, not an email. your plans to provide a zero-waste reception (or at least pretty close to it). Some eco-friendly caterers will donate or even compost any leftovers. The Gown It’s tricky to find a reason to wear your wedding gown twice unless you save it for renewing your vows in the future. If, by chance, you and your Parting Gifts Although most couples may feel their mini-gift is usable, when it mother have similar tastes, altering her preserved dress and making it comes to wedding favors, they typically get thrown in the trash. Why not your own might be a perfect fit. But if you are looking forward to choosing chuck the idea of wedding favors all together? Instead, leave guests feel- your own gown (which is understandable), check out the wedding dresses ing giddy after making a donation to a charity of your choice in their name. at vintage stores and consignment shops. These days, wedding gowns Or go the edible route and give your guests a homemade treat or delicious don’t have to be long and white. Choose a style and color that touts your delight from a local bakery or farmers’ market. Try to resist adding more tastes as well as your thoughtfulness for the eco-future. packaging. Perhaps the treat will be devoured on the drive home. As for the wedding party, consider letting them wear something they The path to a wonderful wedding can be beautiful but excessive. Why already own. It’s doubtful you will find a former bridesmaid donning the tea not make the first steps to your union eco-conscious yet memorable. By length, teal, tulle dress she once wore in a wedding for another occasion. using all of these tips or just one of them, your journey will start a little Give your wedding party guidelines, such as black dress, knee length, more earth friendly. HLM but let them choose something they can easily repurpose for another fabulous event. HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 13 HERLIFE BEAUTY facts and myths about beauty procedures by l i n d say l a d e ro u te C osmetic surgery is an area of beauty surrounded by myths and in certain facial muscles, it creates a nerve block in the injected area, misinformation. Many of us are unsure of what to believe when which lessens muscle activity and minimizes the appearance of wrinkles. the topic comes up. Images of “fish face,” thoughts of frozen But don’t think this will lead to a “frozen” expression or major loss of facial expressions and horror stories of terrible side effects run movement. It will lessen the muscle activity in the area into which it is through our heads when the subject arises. Celebrity stories injected, but not to the point that you cannot frown or look surprised. of cosmetic procedures gone wrong are continuing tales of woe on news- The appearance of “fish face” is often associated with cosmetic stands. But what really are the facts? Read on to learn the truth about BOTOX® Cosmetic, JUVÉDERM®, Restylane®and LATISSE®. In the world of cosmetic drugs, the most prominent name is BOTOX drugs. This is the look of lips that are too large and pucker out, resulting in a fish-like pucker. Busting this myth depends on knowing where each type of drug is administered. It is impossible to see this type of result from BOTOX Cosmetic because it is only used in the brow and eye area. JUVÉ- Cosmetic. Its base is a botulinum toxin, which may be the root of the myth DERM and Restylane are both hyaluronic acid gel fillers used for the lines that it is a “toxic” substance. Botulinum toxin is a purified toxin created nat- around the mouth and under the nose. When these two are used as facial urally from the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. When used in small doses line fillers, they cannot cause a “fish face” look. Restylane can be used as 14 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM In the world of cosmetic drugs, the most prominent name is BOTOX Cosmetic. Its base is a botulinum toxin, which may be the root of the myth that it is a “toxic” substance. a lip plumper in women over the age of 21 and can cause “fish face” if a reaction occurs or too much is injected. If this occurs, it should diminish within 14 days. If you’re concerned about looking like you’ve had work done, be sure to discuss this with your doctor. The results you often see with celebrities are caused by injections that are too high in dosage or performed too often. BOTOX Cosmetic, JUVÉDERM and Restylane can all provide natural results when used in moderation and within the recommended doses. If you are unhappy with results from JUVÉDERM and Restylane, a reversing agent called hyaluronidase will break up the drugs and erase the results. Results from BOTOX Cosmetic are not reversible but results diminish in about three months. Another myth about cosmetic drug procedures is the pain that may occur. Will an injection of BOTOX Cosmetic, JUVÉDERM or Restylane bring pain, swelling or infection? All of these procedures are relatively quick to administer, and pain compares to that of a shot. Most people will have limited discomfort and feel back to normal within a few hours. As with all drugs, side effects can occur. Swelling, discomfort, infection and pain are all possible side effects with these drugs but should pass within seven days of treatment if they occur. Cosmetic drugs now exist for your eyelashes, too. LATISSE is an FDAapproved drug that helps eyelashes grow longer, thicker and darker. Two myths about LATISSE are that it changes the color of your eyes and darkens the rims of your eyelids. Both of these myths are true to an extent. LATISSE originated as a glaucoma medication, and in this prescribed usage some patients did notice a change in the pigmentation of their eyes. Because of this, LATISSE is required to note this as a possible side effect, although it is very rare in the eyelash treatment form. A darkening of the rim of the eyelid is possible, but it may be reversible if it occurs. Results with LATISSE don’t occur overnight. Most people do not begin to see results until week eight of treatment. Using it more than once a day will not bring faster results, so stick to using it once daily on clean skin. Do not use LATISSE on the lower lid; it is only intended for the top lid. It can cause hair growth on areas it frequently touches, so be sure to wipe away any excess when applying the product. Nothing lasts forever, so if you stop using LATISSE, the results will fade and lashes will go back to their previous appearance. Education is key in making any choices, especially when it comes to a cosmetic procedure. Whether you are considering using LATISSE, BOTOX Cosmetic or any of the alternatives, or have simply wondered about them, feel secure in your knowledge now. Myths need to be busted, especially when it comes to beauty. HLM HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 15 HERLIFE INSPIRATIONS a ANAb DODSON: A LITTLE GIRL WITH A BIG HEART wr it t en by k at hleen k r ueger T p h o to s by l i g h tb o x i m a ge s wo of Ana Dodson’s favorite things to do as a child were to snuggle with her mother and to read books. So, when Ana and m a ke u p by a l l i so n sh o e m a ke r a profound impact on Ana and her family. In preparation for the trip, Ana’s mother contacted long-time friends her mother traveled to Peru, Ana’s birthplace, for the first time in Peru that she had gotten to know during her stay in the country while together, Ana took Spanish-language books and lots of snuggly Ana’s adoption was being processed. These Peruvian contacts were able to teddy bears to give to the children of Peru. locate an orphanage for girls near the town of Cusco, where Ana was born, Ana’s parents have always been open with her about her adoption. and arrange for Ana and her mother to visit the orphanage during their time She knows the story well, how her mother spent a year in Peru working in Peru. “The girls were so excited to have us visit them,” Ana said of their through the legalities necessary to bring baby Ana home with her to Colo- visit to the orphanage. “They told us that we were their first visitors, ever. To rado. Finally, Ana came to Colorado to be the baby sister to her two older imagine that was incredible, for a child to feel forgotten.” brothers. She is now 22 years old and has grown up in a loving, nurtur- As Ana and her mother distributed the teddy bears and books, she ing family with all the typical advantages of the average child living in the realized that these girls needed a lot more. It was the middle of winter and United States. the girls had no warm clothes to wear. They were wearing sandals made Ana was 11 years old when she and her mother took that first trip to Peru. They traveled with a group of other children who had been adopted from Peru and their parents. It was a truly unique adventure, one that made from rubber tires and no jackets, just thin sweaters. Ana also learned that the girls who lived there were not all orphans in the true sense of the word. Some of the girls had been brought to the HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 17 home by their parents because they didn’t have the financial means to care to the home in Peru. Then Ana sent letters out to family and friends tell- for the child, or the parents may have been abusive or severe alcoholics. ing them about her trip to Peru and how she wanted to help the children “They call it a hogar,” Ana explained, “which means ‘home’ in Spanish.” there by sending them vitamins. She returned to the Rotary Club that had During Ana’s visit, a young woman who had formerly lived at the home contributed funds for the books and teddy bears, telling the members about served as her guide. Her name was Yenivel. She and Ana became good her trip and how she wanted to do more. People and groups who heard her friends. As Ana and her mother were leaving the home, Yenivel hugged Ana story started contributing to Peruvian Hearts and sharing the story with and began to cry. “Ana, I know that you will never forget us,” she said. “And others. Slowly the recognition has grown. Peruvian Hearts and Ana have one day you will come back and help us.” received several awards over the years for their work. Ana couldn’t forget Yenivel’s words. Even after she returned to the Peruvian Hearts continued to send vitamins to that original home for United States, she kept thinking about Yenivel and all the girls she had girls, and as more funds came in the group expanded their efforts. They met. She realized that she could have ended up in their same situation—no provided the girls with clothes, shoes, medical care and a water filtration parents to care for her, no warm clothes to wear and malnourished. It was a system that gave the home their first clean water and their first hot water stark reality to face at the age of 11. tank. 2013 was Peruvian Hearts’ tenth anniversary of providing support to “I wanted to help children in Peru, and give them the same opportunities that I had been given growing up here in Colorado with this amazing the home. It didn’t take long for the word to spread in Peru about the good things family I have,” Ana shared. With the help of her mom and dad, Ana started that were being done for children through Peruvian Hearts. A mayor from a her own nonprofit in December 2003 and called it Peruvian Hearts. They small town contacted the organization and asked if Peruvian Hearts could had $100 left from the funds Ana had raised to buy teddy bears and books; help provide food for school children in his community. “The kids in my town this was used as the seed money to begin their work. They contacted the are hungry,” he told them. home for girls that they had visited and asked what the girls needed most. “Vitamins!” was the reply. That’s how it started. The Dodsons purchased and shipped vitamins 18 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM Peruvian Hearts’ local agents in Peru researched the situation and found that many of the students traveled two to three hours each day to get to school, with only a cold potato in their pocket as their meal for the day. hands-on training in nutrition and how to prepare healthy meals. With fewer than 36 percent of the girls in rural Peru finishing secondary school, providing women with the support they need to first finish school and then There are currently 25 women enrolled in the Peruvian Promise program; one of them is Yenivel, the young woman whose plea for help ten years ago was the initial inspiration for Peruvian Hearts. She is enrolled in a university program and is studying hotel administration and tourism. The Dodsons had continuously searched for Yenivel as they worked with Peruvian Hearts, but for eight years they were unable to make contact with go on to higher education is of great her. Finally, two years ago, they found her working in a backpackers’ hostel. significance. In contrast to the statistics, lated. “She had just come back for a visit the day that we were there. And, 100 percent of Peruvian Promise scholars graduate from secondary school and go on to study at the post-secondary and university levels. “Yenivel wasn’t living at the home when we came to visit in 2003,” Ana rejust by chance, she chose to show me around. That’s why we weren’t able to find her. She is an incredibly strong young woman.” Five of the girls in Peruvian Promise will graduate from high school this year, and one will graduate from her post-secondary technical institute program in March. “These girls have come out of a lot of chaos, and they are working really hard,” Ana shared. “We are really, really proud of them and their accomplishments.” Ana says her mom, dad and brother Danny have been very important in the development and management of the organization. Her parents and Peruvian Hearts began a new program, Nutrition for Change, to help meet Ana are on the board of directors for Peruvian Hearts, and Danny is the this need. The program was implemented in several regions in Peru, provid- executive director. ing breakfast, lunch and multivitamins to school children. Two and a half years ago, Peruvian Hearts began their third program, Ana is currently a senior in college, with a major in cultural anthropology and a minor in Latin American studies. She has her sights set on one that Ana is particularly excited about, titled Peruvian Promise. “This becoming an elementary teacher, but Peruvian Hearts will always be a part has really been one of my dreams all along,” shared Ana. “We are now pro- of her life. “I wouldn’t be who I am today without Peruvian Hearts, or the viding young women with the opportunity to attend post-secondary school.” girls in our programs in Peru whom I’ve gotten to know and love,” affirmed With fewer than 36 percent of the girls in rural Peru finishing secondary school, providing women with the support they need to first finish school and then go on to higher education is of great significance. In con- Ana. HLM To learn more about Peruvian Hearts or to make a contribution, visit PeruvianHearts.org. trast to the statistics, 100 percent of Peruvian Promise scholars graduate from secondary school and go on to study at the post-secondary and university levels. According to the Nike Foundation, a girl who does not have an education is more likely to be a child bride, contract HIV or AIDS and continue the cycle of poverty with her own children. Peruvian Hearts believes that by empowering women you take a critical step toward ending this cycle of hopelessness. Not only does Peruvian Promise provide 100 percent scholarships for the girls enrolled in the program, it also provides weekly mentoring meetings. Here the girls learn basic selfempowerment skills. “In Peru, a lot of girls are pressured into sexual relationships,” Ana explained. “Peruvian Hearts teaches them how to say no, how to stand up for themselves.” They discuss alcohol and drug use, as well as the importance of relying on each other for help and support. The girls also get a lot of HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 19 HERLIFE MOTHER’S PERSPECTIVE by ga i l si l ve rste i n H senior graduation igh school graduation is a major milestone in the life of every school to capture it. In many schools, graduation gowns are rented and teenager and their family. You want to mark the occasion with the student keeps only the cap. So taking pictures with your senior clad in a celebration that’s memorable but doesn’t bankrupt you. cap and gown needs to happen before the actual ceremony, because that Besides a party, there are also other important expenses to pricey rental gown will need to be returned right after your son or daughter consider as you begin to plan. walks across the stage. Graduation day is the one time that you don’t want Capturing that special time in a senior portrait is the first step along the way to wearing the cap and gown at graduation. These days, students bring multiple outfits that represent their unique personalities and school to leave it to Uncle Harry’s amateur digital photography skills to record the main event. Tell relatives to take candid shots later on and at the party. Graduation announcements are another area associated with this rite activities, so don’t be shocked at the sticker price. Beginning the summer of passage. When cutting costs, consider online photo announcements before your child enters his or her senior year of high school, most schools through reputable vendors like Shutterfly or Snapfish, which serve double mail out senior picture information and the “early bird gets the worm” of duty as both a picture of your senior student and an announcement of the savings. If you arrange a session for those all-important pics before school upcoming graduation. Another option is the inexpensive, do-it-yourself an- begins, many times the portrait studio will give you a discount or free nouncement/invitation kits you can purchase at stationery supply stores. wallet-sized photos. Also, be selective in picking out those pictures—often Chain party stores offer more than decorations and paper goods these we over-order the quantity really needed. Finally, on graduation day, you’ll days. There are many fun graduation-themed choices at these party stores be enjoying the moment, so leave it to the professional hired by your child’s for less than $4 for a 25-pack. All you need are time and creativity to 20 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM Play old-school games with a new twist, like Pin the Mustache on the Teacher. Blow up a photograph of one teacher that your senior picks from the yearbook, give each guest a construction paper cutout of a mustache and let them have at it. autograph each other’s shirt is also another inexpensive way to celebrate, and the completed tee doubles as their party favor. Play old-school games with a new twist, like Pin the Mustache on the Teacher. Blow up a photograph of one teacher that your senior picks from the yearbook, give each guest a construction paper cutout of a mustache and let them have at it. Don’t forget to have a memory note or scrapbook station. Create note boxes or envelopes for each guest and supply special pens and paper so they can write notes to each other. Teens and family members can write memories of the graduate and others and put their page in the boxes/en- make it work. If you’re really on a tight budget, you might want to craft and velopes. Another option is to make a scrapbook with pictures of your gradu- email an announcement on your computer to family and friends. ate. Adorn the scrapbook with colorful graduation-themed stickers. Add gel The graduation party is the culmination of your student’s hard work, pens and special paper for guests to sign and write well wishes. Later, you so celebrate in style but without breaking the bank. While the trend is to can add photos taken from the party and other school memorabilia to cre- rent a hotel room and chaperone 20-plus high school kids, consider other ate a personalized memory book for your child. nontraditional, less costly party options such as paintball, laser tag or a lo- While you can save money on the entertainment, paper goods and cal park. After picking a date, setting a budget and creating a guest list, you party location, food is one area where you don’t want to skimp. Family and should think about a theme. It can be as simple as a cap and gown in your friends should be fed, but you can serve simple finger foods or, depending child’s school colors. Many party stores carry graduation-themed invitations, on your culinary skills, provide a delicious themed meal. Either way, you’ll plates, table cloths and decorations. savor the savings of a home-cooked menu over restaurant or catering Try to use restraint on the planned party activities. Teens love to just get together, talk and listen to music, suggests Denise Witmer, author of cuisines. Whatever you do to mark this special occasion, remember to relax, sit two books on parenting and frequent contributor to About.com. Providing back and relish the moment. High school graduation only happens once in each guest with a white T-shirt and colorful permanent markers so they can your child’s lifetime. HLM HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 21 HERLIFE PETS exotic pets by ga i l si l ve rste i n O wning a pet has many health benefits, according to research. cages, passed from owner to owner, or disposed of in other ways,” the Petting a furry friend after a stressful day can help lower Humane Society warns. Sadly, there aren’t enough reputable sanctuaries blood pressure, calm the nerves and ward away loneliness. or other facilities to properly care for unwanted exotics. They either end But what about exotic animals as pets? What are the draw- up back in the exotic pet trade or are released into the wild where, if they backs and the benefits to taking a walk on the wild side of survive, they cause trouble to the local environment. pet ownership? According to the Humane Society of the United States website, there Another issue to consider is the fact that exotic animals can carry dangerous diseases and parasites. The Centers for Disease Control and are many important issues people should address before deciding to own Prevention discourages people from direct contact with wild animals for an exotic animal. Whether it’s a panther or a sugar glider, eventually these just that reason. Rabies, salmonella and herpes B virus are a few of the adorable baby exotic animals grow up and become bigger and stronger not-so-exotic and potentially fatal diseases you could contract. The herpes than the owner ever imagined. “The instinctive behavior of the adult animal B virus, commonly found among macaque monkeys, can be deadly to replaces the dependent behavior of the juvenile, resulting in biting, scratch- humans. Each year, tens of thousands of people get salmonella infections ing or displaying destructive behaviors without provocation or warning. Such from reptiles or amphibians, causing the CDC to recommend that these ani- animals typically become too difficult to manage and are confined to small mals be kept out of homes with children under the age of five. In 2003, an 22 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM Each year, tens of thousands of people get salmonella infections from reptiles or amphibians, causing the CDC to recommend that these animals be kept out of homes with children under the age of five. The HSUS reports that it’s not uncommon for exotic pets to be malnourished and stressed. They also tend to develop behavioral issues that can lead to bites and attacks on their owners and others, states the Animal Planet website. Finally, some exotics could be illegal to own depending on where you live, so take that into consideration when choosing a pet. But what about those who are allergic to furry, fluffy or feathery friends? Don’t they deserve to connect with nature and enjoy pet ownership? Some reptiles or amphibians could be a good fit provided that there outbreak of monkeypox occurred when African rodents carrying the disease are no young kids or others with compromised immune systems in the were imported for the pet trade and infected native prairie dogs that were house, because of the salmonella issue. For people who live where cats also being sold as pets. or dogs aren’t allowed, a small exotic pet may be the answer. Also, some If that’s not enough to convince you, the HSUS is strongly against exotics such as hedgehogs have shorter life spans, making them ideal keeping exotic animals as pets because it’s difficult to give them the care for those who can’t make a long-term commitment. Another advantage of they need. Despite what animal sellers might say, exotic pets need special- some exotics like stick insects and ferrets is that they’re not as demanding ized, often expensive care. Many exotic animals travel several miles a day as Fido or Fluffy, who want frequent affection and daily walks. Finally, some in the wild, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty exotics can serve another purpose besides being a pet. Lizards can provide to Animals, so domestic life won’t satisfy their inborn needs. Wild animals pest control in greenhouses and llamas can be used as guard animals. do best on their own in their natural habitat, not to mention that the special The bottom line is that you must do your research before purchasing foods (think live crickets) and vitamins they require can be costly. Finding an exotic pet and be sure you’re doing it for the right reasons. If you do end the right veterinary care can be a challenge for your exotic pal. In addition, up buying an exotic animal, go to a reputable seller. Be sure to check out as many exotic animals grow, their food and living space requirements in- the rules and regulations of the community you live in. As with owning any crease. Think lions, tigers and bears, oh my! At that point, once-loved exotic animal, make certain you’re ready for the financial, emotional and time com- pets often end up abused, neglected or in cages. mitment necessary to make the relationship a successful one. HLM HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 23 HERLIFE TRAVEL common travel mistakes by c and i s mit h W ith spring break and summer vacations around the mad dash through the airport, trying to reach your departure gate, not corner, you’re probably already booking your flights and to mention taking the increased risk of your baggage being lost. It’s making your itineraries. Unfortunately, people make recommended that you allow at least an hour between connections. mistakes that can be easily avoided with planning and Do comparison shopping before you book. Websites such as kayak. foreknowledge. Here are a few tips that travelers can com and farecompare.com help you do side-by-side shopping for flights, consider to avoid problems for their trip. Try to book at least 80 days before your departure to take advan- hotels and rental cars. And buy full coverage trip insurance—it’s fairly inexpensive compared to the cost you would incur if an unplanned event tage of early bird booking. Some airlines reduce fares three to four causes you to cancel your trip, or if you find yourself in another country weeks before travel to ensure a full plane. However, hedging your bets where an accident lands you in the hospital. and hoping for a last-minute deal is pretty much a thing of the past. Ensure that you print off the details of your flight, hotel and rental Instead, you risk booking a flight, then being unable to find accommoda- car reservations. With today’s dependence upon electronic devices, tions. there’s still no guarantee that once you arrive at your destination you’ll When you’re booking your travel, consider whether your flight is be able to access your information. Additionally, read the small print non-stop or connecting. While non-stop flights might cost a bit more of your reservations so you understand any late or change fees or late than connecting flights, taking one can shave time off your overall check-in rules that might apply. trip, as well as reduce the risk of a delay in reaching your destination Read multiple reviews to ensure you are getting what you pay for, because of connections. Many travelers don’t allow themselves enough and don’t depend strictly upon the marketing offered by the venue. time between connecting flights. There’s nothing worse than making a Reliable websites such as Yahoo.com have multiple unbiased reviews 24 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM Beware of “timesuckers” while you’re traveling. For instance, taking too many photographs keeps you from truly being in the moment, interacting with the locals, eating regional food and doing the activities offered. Those moments are priceless and can seldom be captured any better than in your own memories. the door and ready to start purchasing. Be sure that you allow enough time to apply for and receive your passport. While it’s possible to pay an additional expedition fee, it’s not something you should depend upon. Also, some countries require you to have your passport for at least six months or have at least one blank page (for frequent travelers) before you’re allowed admittance inside their borders. Finally, sometimes it’s the little things that can make or break your trip. For instance, most airlines now charge baggage fees, yet people continue to overpack. Unlike when you’re home, it’s not necessary to change workout clothes and sleepwear every day. If you see a trinket you want to buy, go ahead. You probably won’t have another time to get available, and there are a plethora of guidebooks that do a thorough job it, and you’ll regret not making the purchase. Using a shuttle service of providing dependable information. often adds 90 minutes between the airport and your destination. Fork Beware of “timesuckers” while you’re traveling. For instance, tak- over the extra cash and get a cab so you can get the party started! ing too many photographs keeps you from truly being in the moment, Don’t use your credit card to get cash; you’ll be stuck with ATM fees interacting with the locals, eating regional food and doing the activities as well as cash transaction fees. Instead, use your credit card when offered. Those moments are priceless and can seldom be captured any possible, or prepare for your trip by taking traveler’s checks. Be sure to better than in your own memories. Don’t book a flight into an airport, or check updates on your email or text in case there’s a delay or cancel- stay in a hotel, that’s too far from the city center if it’s only going to save lation in your flight. Finally, don’t try to do too much with too little time, you a few bucks but take time away from your vacation. and don’t simply stick to the tourist traps. Get to know the locals, and If you’re traveling internationally, there are a few tips that you definitely need to consider. Exchange money at the airport; while it might ask their opinions on places to eat, venues for entertainment and beautiful spots to see. HLM cost you a bit more to do so, it’s reputable, in place and gets you out HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 25 HERLIFE REAL ESTATE what to look for in a neighborhood F by l a u ra l e i va inding a dream home is usually on the top of every prospec- tages of living in a particular neighborhood, and real estate experts suggest tive homeowner’s wish list, but the neighborhood in which you you keep your lifestyle in mind. Are you a newlywed couple planning to live makes a real difference in quality of life. For many potential have children? Do you like to have a range of nightlife options nearby? Are homeowners shopping for a first, second or even a dream home, outdoor recreation and fitness a large part of your weekly routine? The the neighborhood is usually a second thought in the process! answers can have an impact on whether a neighborhood is the right fit for Real estate experts suggest that the primary requirements for the shopper should first be choosing the neighborhood, then looking for the perfect home within its perimeters. There are plenty of things to look for–and avoid–when shopping for a you and your family. Researching and fact-checking the neighborhood are essential tasks you should do before searching for a home. For example, you might find that the subdivision of homes close to a wonderful school is actually past home. Typically, potential homeowners provide a range of amenities or the boundary for the district, meaning your residence in the neighborhood “wish list” items they’d like in a home and the real estate agent searches won’t get your children into the school you want them to attend! Other for a reasonable property that fits their budget and needs; however, little things to look at are crime statistics, flooding or landslide zones, potential time is spent understanding the property’s neighborhood and what it offers. building around the home or additional tax requirements. Some communi- Why is a neighborhood important? The people who live around you, school ties, particularly planned communities, have specific regulations about the qualities or neighborhood amenities can have a large impact on your happi- exterior of the home and its landscaping; you may be expected to maintain ness levels, whether you live in your dream home or not. a look that is consistent throughout the neighborhood. It’s important to think about the long-term advantages and disadvan26 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM Commute time is a major consideration when looking for a home in a Why is a neighborhood important? The people who live around you, school qualities or neighborhood amenities can have a large impact on your happiness levels, whether you live in your dream home or not. want them to engage and play with others. Does the community provide monthly socials or events? These factors can greatly influence how you feel in your new neighborhood. The amenities provided to the neighborhood can be a major selling point. Examine your lifestyle requirements when searching for that perfect house. If you like nightlife, art galleries and coffee shops with a vibrant music scene, that beautiful house surrounded by family restaurants and everyday retail stores might not cut it for you, and vice versa. Real estate specific neighborhood. Real estate experts suggest that longer commute agents suggest spending a night in a hotel near the potential neighborhood times translate to price drops should you want to resell your home later on. to get a feel for the area and to see if it’s a location that fits within your While a quiet, tree-lined street is perfect for some, the distance from area desired living requirements. amenities or jobs can make it difficult to enjoy a new home thoroughly. If Examining the area around the dream home is a perfect way to under- your heart is set on a suburban neighborhood outside the city, proximity stand whether the surroundings will fit your lifestyle requirements. Be sure to transportation options will minimize your daily commute time and make to keep your future life expectations in mind! While driving around, you the home more desirable for resale value. Visit the home at different times might notice new construction or perhaps vacant buildings; these factors throughout the week; a mid-week visit at lunchtime can tell a truly different highlight the vitality of the neighborhood and can indicate the direction in story than a drive from the city during rush hour! which the area might be moving. Whether you plan to socialize with the neighbors or not, the people One real estate expert put it best—if you don’t like the neighborhood, living on either side of you can make living in your new home pleasant or chances are you won’t truly love the house. Spend time with your agent in downright awkward. That’s not to say the neighborhood is bad; it just might mapping out schools, amenities and statistics before you even begin look- not fit with your needs or lifestyle. Spend time walking around the potential ing for a home. A clear list of “wants” and “needs” will help narrow down community to get a feel for the residents. Are there kids playing around the options and you’ll find your dream home and neighborhood. They’re after school? That might be important if you have children of your own and both waiting for you! HLM HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 27 HERLIFE HOME by h o p e e . f e rg u so n design tips from the W professionals hen I got engaged, my fiancé took it upon himself to rearrange my house. The sofa, which had always been on one side of the room, went to the opposite, and the china cabinet now faces my front door. In the sunroom, my wicker couch looks toward my picture window instead of a wall. Adding deeper, richer paint in the same color family provided an immediate facelift. Just a few changes can make a big difference to a home in need of refreshing. We gathered tips from experts on how we can make our homes If you’d like, say, a mustard room, instead of painting the whole room that color, try painting one wall and using a big mustard throw pillow and other accessories. During the colder months you can accessorize with a faux fur throw. And obviously home repair helps. If you have a big brown spot on the look luxe, yet livable. You may not have the budget to hire an interior design- ceiling from a leaky roof, you want to fix that before you buy a new sofa. er, but if you make a few strategic changes, you can have a home closer to But there are a few things that always seem to work. Adding an unexpected your dreams than you thought imaginable. color, such as a dark neutral like charcoal or gray to a living or dining room, It may seem counterintuitive, but if you start with an idea of how you or a glossy emerald, wine or navy to a small room like a dressing room for want your house to feel, instead of how it looks, you are on the right track. a “jewel box” effect, has a big impact. Paying attention to seasonal details, Find photos in magazines or on the internet (like the site Houzz.com) and like a bowl of fresh apples in the autumn or a cashmere throw in the winter, begin to deconstruct the pieces that go into the “feel” you desire. are also ways to subtly change up your rooms. Quick Fixes Kitchen and Bath If you are on a very limited budget, but want an instant lift, one quick Everyone spends lots of time in their kitchen and bathroom, and when fix is getting rid of clutter, repainting all the trim in the house or repainting selling a home those are the two rooms that can make or break a deal. one standout room. If you are on a limited budget, or are renovating in stages, you may want 28 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM to start here. In the bathroom, you could do something unexpected like room that color, try painting one wall and using a big mustard throw pillow painting your walls a cocoa brown, with creamy white tile flooring and tile and other accessories. During the colder months you can accessorize with backsplash. a faux fur throw. In the kitchen, if you are a cook, you may want a rack of pots and pans in easy reach. A clean, clear horizontal surface is very restful, according to Sunroom one designer. So if you’re not using your blender, don’t have it on the counter taking up space. A backsplash of subway tiles is also “in” right now. Plants are a great way to fill a space and they are good for your house because they bring in oxygen. Reduce clutter in this room by using baskets of varying sizes and shapes to store magazines and important mail. Living Room Art has a high impact, but can be expensive. Since my 20s, I have Rugs shopped antique markets, artists’ studios and outdoor stalls to find original To amp up the luxe factor, buy a good rug. According to House Beauti- yet affordable artwork. I have found that my picks maintain their appeal and ful, a nice rug is an unexpected but luxurious bonus even in the bathroom, value through the years. since it has been designed to withstand more than just wet feet. Wool and Mixing old and new is also an unexpected twist, say experts. A room with contemporary pieces but old paintings can be quite attractive. And sisal are both good choices, as is indoor/outdoor fabric. One way to change your look while getting rid of things you don’t want layering pillows with variety of fabrics and prints can immediately amp up is by having a swap. One designer gets together with her girlfriends, and the “wow” factor in a living room. everyone will bring something to recycle or upcycle. You may think a certain thing is old news but your friend can paint it and it’s something new. Bedroom Did you notice that upscale hotels usually have neutral bedding, like one big, fluffy comforter with a duvet? The same idea works in your Mostly, be patient. Creating a home you truly love takes time. Says one expert: “Don’t fill your home just because you want to get it finished. Take your time to really find things you love.” HLM bedroom. If you’d like, say, a mustard room, instead of painting the whole HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 29 HERLIFE HOME AND DESIGN tips for decorating large spaces b y linno re g o nz a le s Q. I have a very large living room space with very high ceilings. I don’t DON’T: clutter your space with too many small pieces. DO: anchor your room with a couple of large pieces and then add know how to decorate the space. Do you have any suggestions? -SAMANTHA FROM LITTLETON, CO smaller accent pieces as necessary. Solid anchor pieces include a large coffee table or sofa, a sectional or A. Large spaces present numerous décor challenges, due to high ceilings or too much “open space” that can make your living room feel tall bookshelves. Use symmetry to create balance and ground the look of your room. Try a pair of large chairs or sofas. too cold, unattractive or uninviting for your everyday living. Here are some DON’T: leave too much open space in the middle of the room design dos and don’ts that you can incorporate as you decorate your living DO: pull seating away from the walls to create a cozier conversation room. DON’T: feel as if you have to create one space out of your large living room. area. Use a focal point such as a fireplace and arrange your seating around DO: designate functional zones and visually divide them. this point for an intimate and inviting atmosphere. If you are using a coffee First, identify the array of functional area possibilities for your space. table, make sure you close the space between it and your sofa or chairs. Perhaps you are considering a conversation zone, a dining area, a spot for Too much space creates an empty feeling. For added softness, opt for a cozying up with a good book or a designated media zone or game table. large upholstered ottoman instead of a coffee table. Once you have established your sections, visually divide them. If your remodeling budget allows for it, try ceiling beams, half walls or pillars. If you prefer a more semi-permanent option for greater flexibility, use DON’T: use bright overhead lights DO: use deep, dark colors and tricks to “lower” the ceiling. area rugs, curtains and furniture. By separating two sections with a low Warm, deep, dark walls will absorb light and create a more intimate piece of furniture such as a bench, daybed or chaise, you can divide the setting. You can also try wallpaper with large patterns for a textured look. room but still retain a flow between the two spaces. Or opt for a more Carry the dark shades throughout the room’s furniture, window dressings dramatic distinction with large, bold furniture pieces. and accessories. For high ceilings, try these snug and cozy tips to trick the eye into thinking the ceilings are lower than they are. Create a two-tone sur- DON’T: accentuate your tall ceilings. face by using color halfway up the wall. Paint the ceilings a shade or several DO: use tall furniture and massive potted plants and trees to fill verti- shades darker than the walls. You can even use paneling here. Use light cal height. You will be able to create a balanced and comfortable room by paying attention to the scale of your furnishings. By using short furniture, your ceil- from floor or table lamps to provide a warmer light than overhead fixtures. Also, avoid too many mirrors, because they reflect light and will accentuate the room’s size. HLM ing will feel too tall and your furniture will seem even smaller. Try using tall bookcases, an armoire or tall-backed chairs and sofas. Also, use tall potted plants or trees to fill those lonely, bare corners. Linnore Gonzales is also the owner of a full service decorating company, Decor & You. “Decor & You furnishes and refines residential and commercial interiors. Our designers have the power to simplify how people achieve comfort, style and value in their homes and businesses. It’s an ambitious goal, and Decor & You delivers it – recipes and p hot ogr ap hy by ver y c ulinar y.c om right to your door!” p hot o p rov i d e d b y j a s on ha y e s p hot ogr a p hy 30 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 31 HERLIFE TRENDSETTER Love Wonderbound presents Wonderbound, a new American dance company, officially opened their doors in Denver in March of 2013. Their first inaugural season performance, titled A Gothic Folktale, premiered in October and featured all new live music by Jesse Manley and illusions by Professor Phelyx. This Valentines Day, Wonderbound will be delighting audiences with Love, a production featuring live music, poetry and dance. Love will consist of two works by Wonderbound Artistic Director Garrett Ammon and a world premiere by company artist Sarah Tallman. The production will be accompanied by Confluence String Quartet and pianist Heidi Leathwood. More information on Wonderbound can be found at wonderbound.com Wonderbound rehearsals are free and open to the public. For more information on rehearsal times and location visit wonderbound.com or email [email protected]. Marian Faustino and Colby Foss in Wonderbound’s Love, photo by Kristen Sink, Garrett Ammon and Wonderbound Julie King and Sarah Tallman as Millie and Christine in Garrett Ammon’s A Gothic Folktale, photo by Amanda Tipton 34 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM Wonderbound Company in Garrett Ammon’s A Gothic Folktale, photo by Amanda Tipton Brandon Freeman as The Fool in Garrett Ammon’s A Gothic Folktale, photo by Amanda Tipton HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 35 Marian Faustino and Brandon Freeman as The Star and The Fool in Garrett Ammon’s A Gothic Folktale, photo by Amanda Tipton Candice Bergeron as Justice in Garrett Ammon’s A Gothic Folktale, photo by Amanda Tipton 36 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM Candice Bergeron and Danny Ryan as Justice and the Strong Man in Garrett Ammon’s A Gothic Folktale, photo by Amanda Tipton HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 37 best of fitness 5280 sport and fitness Sonja Steward wanted to get her body back after having children. She took action and became certified to teach Tae Bo® by Billy Blanks, then opened her first gym in 2000. “I started doing Tae Bo and went from a size 12 to a size 4. Since then, I have trained with Billy Blanks for 13 years and have earned the level of Tae Bo® Elite Fitness Instructor,” Sonja enthuses. At its creation, Tae Bo was and continues to be a revolutionary metabolic workout, designed for burning fat, losing inches and toning muscles. Through this workout system and others, Sonja has made it her mission to help moms just like herself change their bodies and lives through the 5280Fit Moms Fitness Challenges. She uses her training, experience and passion every day to help others reach their goals. In 2006, she opened 5280Fit in the Highlands Ranch area. Sonja believes, “The fitness industry is incredibly competitive and dominated by national big box gyms. By being locally owned and operated, 5280Fit is able to give much more personal service, attention and flexibility to each client. It’s about knowing the people, their names and their stories of why they want to change their lives. To give our clients variety, we have added classes such as yoga, FitBarre, FitMMAx (a Mixed Martial Arts fitness class), FitBike, TRX® and more.” If you are a mom struggling to lose baby fat, a mom who has given all her extra time to raising a family and who now realizes that it’s time to work on herself, come visit us—you will find that a new level of fitness will give you boundless energy and make you a better mom. You may be a person who has never enjoyed walking into a gym and wondering what to do with all that equipment. If so, then 5280Fit is the place for you to start your fitness journey! Find Your Fit at 5280Fit! 4181 E. COUNTY LINE RD. (COUNTY LINE/COLORADO BLVD) • 303.979.8180 • WWW.5280FIT.COM 38 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM Mona Merrick, owner of Body Balance Coaching, helps clients achieve their wellness goals through Pilates and nutrition coaching. A certified Health Coach, Mona works with clients to find nutritional foods that increase energy levels and to have fun eating while not feeling that they have to sacrifice. Mona is a certified Pilates instructor and offers private and group Pilates classes using the mat or Pilates equipment. Pilates engages the entire body and improves flexibility, strength and balance while being easy on the joints. Mona’s goal is to create a personalized roadmap to health for each client’s unique body, lifestyle, preferences and goals, building overall wellness. MONA RODRIGUEZ MERRICK 10233 S. PARKER RD., STE 107 (LOCATED INSIDE ITHRIVE YOGA STUDIO) PARKER, CO 80134 WWW.BODYBALANCECOACHING.COM [email protected] (303) 668-1304 n’tense fitness jamie g. smith N’Tense Fitness is a group strength and conditioning program focusing on power, endurance, balance, speed, core strength, plyometrics and agility. Every class is a group session and participants receive personal instruction throughout from our trainers. High intensity workouts are constantly varied and scaled depending on your fitness level. Get yourself into shape and become part of a family that has one common goal: to live a healthier lifestyle. First five classes are FREE! (303) 590-8726. Join a community where fitness IS a way of life. We find fitness in our lives by sharing food, out-of-the box living, today’s trends, authentic connections, spiritual accelerations and adventure encounters! No one is one-dimensional! A full, balanced and connected life brings fulfillment, passion and results! Find us at JamieGLifestyle.com; click “Sign Up Now” to get lifestyle and fitness tips as well as industry secrets from top experts! I look forward to meeting you and discovering more together! (303) 590-8726 [email protected] WWW.JAMIEGLIFESTYLE.COM HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 39 best of fitness body balance coaching HERLIFE WHAT KEEPS YOU FIT what keeps you fit? photos by light b ox images sh o t on location at 5 2 8 0 s p or t and f it nes s Name: Linsay Shirley Occupation: Stay-at-home mom and part-time IT consultant What motivates you to work out? I like the friendships I’ve made at 5280 Sport & Fitness and the accountability I feel when I work out. How do you make time for fitness? It’s just part of my day; it’s in my schedule. I drop my daughter off at school and then come to the gym. Do you have a favorite workout? I love choreography, and the Tae Bo workout feels like that. I also love the Small Group FIT Training class because my husband can come to that class and we both get a good workout. I like the balance between the weights of Small Group FIT Training and the cardio of Tae Bo— you don’t even feel like you’re exercising! What kind of results have you seen? I started working out when my daughter was born seven years ago. I wanted to get in shape then; now I focus on maintenance. Has anyone noticed your results? My husband likes the results! And my friends sometimes tease me about my “guns.” 40 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 41 HERLIFE CULINARY culinary cruises by p a tty c o o k “O h, you must go on a cruise! You’ll simply love it.” For But the most enthusiastic stories I have heard about cruise ships years, I’ve heard these words from friends. I love relate to food. The cost of most food is included in the cruise fare, meals travel, yet I’m not so sure my mind is made up about are consistently excellent, and dining experiences and lavish buffets cruises. Perhaps watching Gilligan’s Island as a child sometimes lead to lifetime friendships. is to blame—after all, if a three-hour cruise could get In recent years, the tide has begun to turn in cruise cuisine. Cruise you into trouble, why would anyone favor an ocean adventure? And who lines compete for passengers, and they pay attention to what their cus- can live on coconuts and papayas for more than a week? tomers want. This means making a sea change in dining options, market- The cruise enthusiasts I’ve talked with enjoy their freedom. They can choose from a wide variety of activities, and travel to ports of call ing more to niche demographics and tempting epicurean travelers. It’s good to know that cruise guests with special dietary restrictions– that would be difficult to reach by car or plane. Their ship is a temporary whether vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free–often have options to request haven. People in all age ranges–singles, couples, families and seniors– specific foods with more than 30 days’ notice. However, those who book share an experience and appreciate the feeling of safety that comes from trips at the last minute may find their choices more limited. It’s wise to going ashore with so many fellow travelers. A cruise allows travelers to discuss individual needs with restaurant managers once on board. Like have an exclusively unique, yet inclusively connected, adventure. any restaurant, those on board want to make sure their customers are 42 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM happy, and the more information they have about your preferences, the riverboat tours. Viking River Cruises® offers 8-day European cruise better they can cater to your needs. packages for fewer than 200 passengers featuring tours of the Bur- Larger and more family-oriented cruise lines carry more passengers, gundy and Bordeaux wine regions. These cruises also delve into local and more passengers mean more profits. However, while ships with larger cuisine—upscale, bistro-style or hearty country meals. Fares range from capacity (about 3,000 passengers) offer more varied dining options, they $1,756 to $4,000. have fewer upscale dining choices. Royal Caribbean® Cruises presents the Perhaps the ultimate combination of cruise and cuisine is found option of special upscale restaurants for an additional charge on a ship on Lindblad Expeditions ships. Outfitted as an educational experience, with a capacity of about 2,000 passengers, including a steakhouse, Ital- passengers learn as they travel. Each ship uses Zodiacs (sturdy, nimble ian and Japanese fare, and restaurants that pair courses with domestic rubber rafts that seat up to 12 people) to travel ashore, or to slowly ap- and Italian wines. A 7-day Caribbean cruise fare ranges from $1,000 to proach marine wildlife without disrupting the environment. Kayaks and $2,000. underwater cameras allow a view of otherwise unseen areas. Technolo- Mid-size ships attract travelers interested in specialty foods. Crystal gies such as video and underwater microphones allow passengers to Cruises®, carrying about 1,000 passengers and voted Best Large-Ship experience marine life in a way that no other cruise can offer. These Cruise Line for 15 years by a survey of Condé Nast Traveler readers, offers ships have a capacity of about 150 passengers and assure guests specialty restaurants for passengers with discriminating palates. Perhaps that the cruise is informal. This intimate and casual environment lends the best known is its Silk Road & Sushi Bar, operated under the direc- itself to the expeditions’ meals, which focus on local cheeses and fruit, tion of master chef Nobuyuki “Nobu” Matsuhisa. Diners may also choose meats and beer, as well as sustainably harvested seafood. Lindblad Prego, run by restaurateur Piero Selvaggio of Valentino fame. Select ships Expeditions’ itineraries span the globe, traveling to Iceland, Antarctica boast special dinners a few times a year, featuring some of the rarest and the South Georgia Islands. Cruise fares for trips from 9 to 24 days wines available. Don’t expect an 8-course French meal paired with a 1959 begin at about $7,000 to $24,900. Château Lafite Rothschild to be included in the price of the cruise fare. A As cruise companies continue to compete, the industry will whet 7-day Caribbean cruise fare starts at about $2,500, but a specialty dining its appetite for culinary adventures. Whether you work with a cruise line room may mean additional meal prices of $100 to $1,000 per person. or a travel agent, ask questions to make sure you combine “Bon Voy- If you are looking for a more intimate cruise experience, consider age” and “Bon Appétit!” HLM HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 43 HERLIFE CRAVINGS Rialto Café wr it t en by jud i f u l to n p hot os by lig ht b ox i m a ge s L et’s talk fine American dining with a splash of signature cocktails, classic dishes and a 16th Street Mall location, and we’re discussing the delectable cuisine experience at the Rialto Café! It is fine dining with a flair for the extraordinary. Greeted by the friendliest of hostesses, who took my coat and escorted me to my table, I was enchanted by the ambiance that is an awesome mixture of a throwback to the classics and modern art deco fixtures adorning the warm, cherry wood walls. There are two levels of seating, and it took me a few moments to realize that the restaurant is a part of the downtown Courtyard by Marriott hotel. Its 16th Street Mall location offers direct access to the restaurant, allowing passers-by to pop in, take a seat at the bar and enjoy the large menu of signature cocktails and locally brewed beer on tap. I allowed my waiter, Nathan, to suggest a favored cocktail to start. He delivered the most popular Effen Elegant, a signature martini made with Effen® vodka and a splash of soda, served in a martini glass with cucumber, lime and mint. It instantly warmed my belly at the first sip, and then tingled my tongue with an awakening crispness. I continued to peruse the cocktail menu and selected the Raspberry Fizz for my second round, made with Van Gogh® raspberry vodka, Chambord® liqueur, lemon juice, a splash of soda, and served with fresh mint and a sugar stick. Don’t judge my sweet tooth; it’s fabulous. My ahi tuna appetizer arrived with a fresh cucumber avocado dip and a grilled flatbread. The seared, fresh, sashimi-grade tuna was so 44 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM fresh, and so tender, that I sliced it with my fork. The blackened pepper and soy glaze combination gave it the perfect kick. The salad I allowed the chef to choose for me was fresh berries and goat cheese atop mixed greens with the most delicious heirloom tomatoes, served with signature cornbread croutons and a balsamic fig vinaigrette. Just as I was about to ask about the tasty signature cornbread croutons, a skillet arrived at my table with fresh warm cornbread made with brown sugar, oats, nutmeg and cinnamon, served with soft butter. It was delightful! I love the twist they put on breads for the table. Every touch of my starters was absolutely perfect. I glanced around the restaurant and found that most of the clientele on this Saturday evening were young couples all the way through seniors, with a few families with kids in attendance. It is clearly the perfect location and experience for theater attendees, people watchers, tourists, business lunches/ dinners and couples alike. For my main course, I steered toward what caught my eye at first, which was the Lobster and Shrimp Fettuccini (lobster claws, shrimp, roasted corn, red bell pepper and green onions tossed in a creamy white wine sauce). Though it was reasonably priced, I wanted the Chef to make his favorite suggestion. I was indulged with two of his choices, the Chicken Piccata and the Filet Mignon. My waiter paired my dishes with a Byron Santa Barbara Pinot Noir that was rich, smooth and served at the perfect temperature to go down all too quickly! The Chicken Piccata arrived with three large slices of pan-seared all-natural chicken breast on my plate, smothered with artichokes, grape tomatoes, a savory lemon beurre blanc (cream sauce), red pepper and capers, with long grain wild rice. The petite filet mignon was drizzled with rosemary demi-glace and served with fresh grilled asparagus and whipped potatoes, simply prepared with butter and cream. For an upscale American restaurant, the price to portion is extremely generous, and each bite was fabulous! I had a taste of two of my favorite desserts: an original Crème Brûlée and the White Chocolate Cherry Bread Pudding, served warm with chocolate and caramel sauce. I would be doing you a disservice if I didn’t convince you to try both! There is every reason to visit Rialto Café. They offer Happy Hour seven days a week, locally brewed beer on tap, seasonal cocktails, wines by the class or bottle, Lavazza coffee, generous dinner portions and a great selection of desserts. HLM Rialto Café, located on the 16th Street Mall between Curtis and Champa, is open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch, dinner and a weekend brunch featuring bottomless mimosas. Rialto also offers a $28 per person pre-theater menu which includes parking; reservations are recommended, 303-893-2233 or visit rialtocafe.com. Judi Fulton has a BA in communications from Elizabethtown College, PA, and has been in advertising for 25 years. Before joining the HERLIFE Magazine staff, she worked in many media such as outdoor, digital media, direct mail and radio, in addition to her years with Time, Inc. in New York. She moved quite a bit while her husband was in the Air Force, but made Denver her home after his retirement. Judi spends her free time cheering on her three children, Taylor, Sydney and Noah, who are competitive in sports in the Denver Metro, and loves finding great restaurants to share with her family and friends! HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 45 HERLIFE SHE SAID YES & Emily Graham w ri tte n by m a ri l y n i sa m i n ge r • p h o to s by j m p h o t o a r t D oesn’t life’s journey hold surprises sometimes? Do we recognize them as coincidence or fate? Emily Gore, 29, is an enterprise software salesperson for a Denver-based technology company. Graham Murty, 30, works as an account executive for a liquor distributor. Emily and Graham met once while in college, and then didn’t cross each others’ paths again for almost four years. The two were first introduced at a little bar in Fort Collins by a mutual friend, and then went their separate ways. Emily shares the story of their re-introduction, the second intersection of their lives that resulted in their traveling a new road together. “We were unknowingly re-introduced by our friends Steve, Graham’s buddy from high school, and his other half, my friend Diane. We had each been invited to spend an evening dancing to some great ’80s songs covered by That ’80s Band. I was sure that I recognized Graham but I could not place him (As a CU grad, I had rarely interacted with CSU Rams!). Graham, on the other hand, was positive that we had never met because he ‘would have definitely remembered.’ So there it began! A few weeks later, Graham reached out to me to get coffee. Coffee turned into brunch, and brunch turned into a night out with my friends. From that day on, we spent every single day together for the next few months and we have been inseparable since then! If it weren’t for a few pictures that I took the night we had originally met, we probably still wouldn’t have known that we did in fact meet way back in Fort Collins.” Graham popped the big question on August 21, 2013, Emily’s 29th birthday! She remembers, “Graham planned a surprise night out to a nice dinner and a show. Afterwards we went back to my house, which was filled with lighted candles, rose petals, flowers and champagne. Graham got down on one knee and asked. I, of course, said ‘YES!’ We are so excited for the next chapter in our relationship!” Emily and Graham are planning their wedding celebration for May 2014 in Santa Fe, New Mexico, with great anticipation for the fun Southwestern flair they will share with the family and friends who will celebrate with them. HLM 46 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 47 anna + hunter HERLIFE TIE THE KNOT TIED THE KNOT OCTOBER 11, 2013 w ri tte n by m a ri l y n i sa m i n ge r p h o to s by j m ph o t o a r t A nna and Hunter Klenk both worked at JJ Madwells Italian Restaurant in Conifer, Colorado, in 2007. She laughs, “We became friends because Hunter pointed out that we were both wearing the same shoes, black Converse sneakers. Hunter came in while I was working one night and asked me on a date!” And so two simple pairs of shoes led them down the path of life together! Hunter proposed to Anna at the racetrack on August 16, 2012. She shares, “After a big race one night, the racetrack was setting off fireworks and it was a pretty “picture perfect” moment; he asked me to marry him!” The blissful couple tied the knot on October 11, 2013, at Noah’s Event Center in Westminster, Colorado, in a ceremony performed by their good friend Jim Snyder. Anna’s Maid of Honor was her younger sister, Sondra Robinson, and bridesmaids were Dana Gryniewicz, Jessica Allen, Anita Snyder and Breena Bracken. Hunter’s Best Man was his best friend Grady Gurth; groomsmen were Jake Speichinger, Robby Franks and Austin Klenk. The precious flower girl was Ella Regan. The wedding and reception were a unique expression of Anna and Hunter’s creativity. She reveals, “I made everything but the food! My 48 HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM businesses that shared in the love bridal gown amanda’s bridal & tux rings kay jewelers bridesmaid Anita and I took old window frames and made them into our cake ball stand. I made a tutu for my flower girl, Ella, out of sparkly tulle so it would match my sparkly dress! The groom’s cake was a replica of Hunter’s truck. He wore Superman socks that had capes because he is Superman’s biggest fan. I wore my grandmother’s wedding ring and his grandmother’s bracelet. The wedding hotel aloft venue noah’s event center caterer frank’s bar-b-que cake and cupcakes sugar tree sweets groom’s cake the makery dj a music plus favors were the Mason jar drinking glasses. Instead of a guest plate, I had everyone sign a white plate. “Hunter works in Alaska two weeks out of every month; his plane had been delayed, but he got home just in time for the rehearsal the day before the wedding. It was a little stressful, but it worked out just fine. Our wedding day was better than I could have ever imagined! It was such a great time and so special to have our family and friends there to share this memorable day with us.” Anna and Hunter saved their honeymoon until January 2014, when they went to Lake Dillon, Colorado, since they love the mountains! HLM HERLIFEMAGAZINE.COM 49 HERLIFE SCENE AND BE SEEN Trista Sutter Book Signing O n the evening of January 3, Trista Sutter, TV’s first Bachelorette, greeted fans at the Tattered Cover in Highlands Ranch to discuss and sign her new book, Happily Ever After: The Life-Changing Power of a Grateful Heart. Trista was the runner-up of the very first season of The Bachelor and had her heart broken. She then became the first Bachelorette, and this time the show ended with a whirlwind courtship with poetry-writing firefighter Ryan Sutter, and eventually a dream-come-true wedding on national television. Her new book is available at the Tattered Cover and tristasutter.com. 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