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Caregiver’s Lunch & Learn

Join us for a monthly gathering of individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s. Gain valuable insights, find encouragement, and receive help in navigating the challenges of the disease.

First Thursday of Every Month | 12:00 PM 803•832•4356 800 N. Lake Drive, Lexington, SC 29072

Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms reading this today. As a son, I am especially thankful for my mother who passed away from breast cancer 17 years ago. Mom had the special gift of laughing at life and the challenges it presents. She had a cute, sly, chuckle, and her head tilted backwards as she laughed. Her smile grew and her eyes sparkled. No matter my mood, Mom’s constant laughter always made me smile. I miss her very much.

As a father, I am just as thankful for my wife Donna and her mothering skills and abilities. Being a mom is no easy task and I truly appreciate her hard work, dedication and love for our family.

I hope you are enjoying the warmer weather as much as I am. We have had our fair share of March and early April rain and, in my opinion, the pollen has been less drastic this spring compared to last year when a stiff breeze would blow a yellow swath of pollen across the roadways.

As a proud father, I’d like to congratulate my youngest son Noah on surviving his “knob” year at the Citadel, my daughter Jenna on her acceptance into the University of South Carolina’s Nurse Practitioners’ Program, Noah’s 19th birthday, my father’s 83rd birthday and his 29th anniversary to his awesome wife Janet.

Thanks for reading Lexington Life. We couldn’t produce it without the support of our sponsors whose advertisements help support community outreach efforts.

Thanks again for reading and Happy Mother’s Day to all!

Todd Shevchik

CALENDAR OFevents MAY

Wednesday, May 6

Nurses Week Celebration

150 Sunset Blvd. | West Columbia 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm

Celebrate the impact Gamecock Nurses make on our community. Enjoy great company, food and drinks, guided tours of the simulation center and immersive tools that power the future of nursing education. For more information visit sc.edu/nursing.

Thursday, May 7 – Saturday, May 9

South Carolina Poultry Festival

101 Main St. | Leesville

This free 3-day family event has something for everyone. Enjoy a parade, live music and entertainment, cooking contests, tractor and car shows, and food and craft vendors. For the schedule of events visit scpoultryfestival.com.

Saturday, May 9

Lexington’s Wine Walk

E Main St. | Lexington | 4 pm – 7 pm

Grab your friends, explore downtown, and enjoy a relaxed evening of great drinks, delicious food, and live music in the heart of Lexington. For more information visit coladaily.com.

Monday, May 11

Tuesday, May 12

Game On: Mahjong

Lexington County Library | 5440 Augusta Rd. Lexington | 6 pm – 7:30 pm

Learn the basics of Mahjong. The program starts with instruction, followed by play. All skill levels welcome (ages 18+). For more information visit lexcolibrary.com.

Friday, May 15

LPD Foundation Concert

Icehouse Amphitheater | 107 W Main St. Lexington | 6 pm

Join Bad Company cover band and Allman Brothers tribute band for a great night of music and fundraising for the Lexington Police Department. For tickets visit icehouseamphitheater.com.

Sunday, May 24

Summer Car Show

Steel Hands Brewing | 2350 Foreman St. Cayce | 12 pm – 4 pm

All makes and models are welcome at this family-friendly event. Register on arrival; parking is first come, first served. Free to enjoy cars and live music.

Thursday, May 28 –

Saturday, May 30

The Dam Boat Run

Lake Murray Marina 1602 Marina Rd. | Irmo

Proceeds from the 4th annual boat run will aid The Big Red Barn Retreat, the

Friday, May 29

Lexington County Blowfish

Opening Night

474 Ball Park Rd. | Lexington | 7:05 pm

Join the Blowfish for their 2026 home opener against the Macon Bacon. Stick around for fireworks after the game. For tickets visit goblowfishbaseball.com.

Saturday, May 30

Lexington County Ag + Arts Tour

Various Locations | 9 am – 4 pm

Free, self-guided tours to see farms and SC Certified Producers doing what they do, watch artists in action, enjoy the melodies of local musicians, and learn more about rural life. For more information visit agandarttour. com/lexington. n

“Great appointment availability, low wait times, and some of the most caring and informed staff I’ve met. My four littles never have to dread a doctor’s visit!”

faithMATTERS

JASON YARBOROUGH

Servant Leader

Focused Living

His Pleasure, Our Benefit

…in accordance with His pleasure and will… Ephesians 1:5, 9

One Friday night, my oldest son, newly independent as a working adult, drove in for a weekend visit from the upstate of SC. His mom, sister, brother, and I were thrilled, rushing outside to welcome him. As we greeted him, my eyes were drawn to the dim glow of his car’s headlights. The plastic housing was clouded, weathered by years of sun exposure. As his father, I could not ignore the problem—it wasn’t safe for him to drive in the dark with low visibility. My heart was stirred towards his well-being, and I resolved to fix it before he returned home.

The next morning, I set out to work on his car in the garage, sanding and polishing the headlamps to restore their clarity. My son wandered in, curious, and asked what I was doing. I pointed out the oxidation dulling the lenses and explained how I was addressing it. He watched, then pitched in, and after a while, he said, “Thanks, Dad, for taking care of this. I’ll be able to see much better at night.” I smiled and replied, “My pleasure, son.” It truly was—this father’s joy to help his child.

This moment reminds me of the spiritual blessings Paul describes in Ephesians Chapter 1. God’s inspired Word tells us that those who fully surrender themselves by faith and follow Christ are lavished with every spiritual blessing: chosen to be holy and blameless in His sight, adopted into His family, redeemed through His Son’s blood, forgiven of sins, granted wisdom and understanding, and entrusted with the mystery of His will. Twice in the first nine verses (vs.5 & 9), Paul emphasizes that God freely bestows these gifts “in accordance with His pleasure and will.”

You see, God, who is infinitely greater and more loving than any earthly father, freely gives to and delights in His children (Psalm 18:19). That’s just who He is! His compassion and kindness just flow out of His heart (Ex 34:6). There’s a readiness to bless (Ps 86:5). It gives Him great pleasure (Ps 149:4). If you have transferred your trust to Jesus already, allow yourself to bask in God’s smile over you this week! And then pass a blessing on to someone else. If you’re not yet part of God’s family but sense a stirring in your soul, reach out to a local church or our team at Focused Living. It would be our pleasure to discuss God’s life-giving solution for you that He is pleased to offer. n

by Abigail Harris

Lee McIntyre

Lexington County Director of Solid Waste Management

Lee McIntyre has been serving the Lexington community for over 12 years. Before beginning his career with the county, much of his early work experience involved agriculture and construction. During high school and college, he worked on farms in row crop and cattle operations. He also worked for a construction company performing land clearing and grading, where he gained experience operating heavy equipment. He graduated from Dillon High School in Dillon, South Carolina, and later earned a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Mechanization and Business from Clemson University.

McIntyre stated that a career in solid waste management was not originally the plan. After visiting friends in the Midlands several times, the area stood out as a place he wanted to live. While searching for work that matched his skills, he found a position as a heavy equipment operator at the Lexington County Landfill. From there, his career steadily progressed. Over the years, he had several roles within the department, including Collection Center Coordinator and Deputy Director, before assuming the role of Director. Each position provided new opportunities to learn and contribute to the services that support the community.

Lexington County Solid Waste Management provides crucial waste disposal and recycling services to residents and businesses throughout the county. The Department manages the Lexington County Landfill, Transfer Station, and Composting Facility. It also oversees 11 collection centers for resident use and manages curbside collection services across the county. The philosophy guiding the Department reflects Lexington

County’s mission: to provide quality services to residents at a reasonable cost. This mission drives the team’s work as they manage the many aspects of waste disposal and recycling for the county.

“Solid Waste Management is much more complicated than most people realize,” said McIntyre. “Being able to help a resident with a difficult item to dispose of, or to educate someone on how to properly dispose of their items, is really satisfying. On occasion, a resident will have a disposal request that I don’t know the proper way to dis pose of. I enjoy doing research and being able to solve their problem. Proper disposal is critical to protecting the environment, and recycling is critical to conserving the resources that we have available to us. I encourage everyone to recycle and dispose of their items responsibly so that our community continues to be a great place to live.”

Outside of his work, he continues to serve the community. He works parttime as an Advanced EMT Crew Chief for Orangeburg County EMS, where he lives. He has also spent 19 years in the volunteer fire service and currently serves as Captain for his local fire department. In his limited free time, he enjoys traveling, especially on trips that involve flying. He is currently completing training to obtain his private pilot’s license and hopes to finish by the end of the year. n

Compassionate Care

At the heart of Lexington, SC, LaVie Pregnancy

Care Center is a non-profit organization devoted to offering Christ-centered support for the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of individuals facing difficult pregnancy decisions.

by Mary Ann Hutcheson

Executive Director Malaena Richardson and her team lead the only center of its kind in Lexington County. With 13 years in pregnancy center ministry, Richardson’s compassion is evident in the fivestar reviews from clients who found solace

through LaVie’s care. “LaVie—French for ‘Life’—reflects our mission to honor and support life by caring for both mother and baby,” said Richardson. “We want every woman to know her life, and her child’s, are deeply valuable.”

Clients consistently praise LaVie’s staff for providing spiritual and practical support throughout pregnancy, birth, and beyond—serving women from all backgrounds without judgment.

Some clients find LaVie by searching the internet, through word of mouth, or via the center’s website. Donors and churches often discover LaVie the same way.

Services

Clients receive free, confidential services from the start. LaVie can provide a pregnancy test and an ultrasound for clients who have not yet established care with an OB. The ultrasound confirms three things:

1. The pregnancy is in the uterus and is not an ectopic pregnancy.

2. There is a measured heartbeat.

3. How far along the pregnancy is, based on the measurements of the baby.

LaVie does not provide prenatal care, so they include a list of local obstetricians with clients’ discharge paperwork.

During her appointment, LaVie walks each client through the full range of re-

photos by Lola Dee Photography

sources available both in the community and offered at LaVie.

The BrightCourse program delivers video-based pregnancy and parenting classes directly to clients via text, allowing them to learn at their own pace, with up to 85 classes available covering infant care, CPR, immunizations, development, and car seat safety. Clients receive five classes at a time and earn points for each one completed. LaVie adopted the program after recognizing that financial barriers—such as the cost of gas—kept many women from attending in-person classes.

Clients can use their points to shop at LaVie’s baby boutique, stocked with car

“Non-judgmental” is a word that appears repeatedly in client reviews. Every woman who walks through the door receives free resources and compassionate care, leaving them equipped and knowing LaVie is there for her in whatever way they can.

LaVie is sustained by a generous community. Churches run baby bottle campaigns—filling bottles with coins, cash, or checks—during events like Sanctity of Human Life Sunday, Mother’s Day, and Father’s Day. Some congregations host church-wide baby showers, while small groups and Sunday school classes adopt LaVie as their monthly mission.

“We can tell our clients how valued they are all day, but what truly matters is showing them through our actions.”

— Malaena Richardson

seats, strollers, swings, bottles, pacifiers, clothing, and more; if an item is not available, LaVie will seek donations to meet the client’s needs.

After birth, LaVie provides monthly assistance with diapers and wipes, serving families until children are potty-trained. LaVie also assists with formula. Most clients can apply for WIC, however, eligibility and supply can vary, and LaVie helps bridge those gaps. Women who connect with LaVie later in pregnancy can schedule a resource appointment, receive referrals for housing or food assistance, and begin earning boutique points through BrightCourse right away.

Community Engagement and Support

Each year, LaVie hosts a Christmas PopUp Shop and a Mother’s Day Open House, where clients receive wrapped gifts—many for the first time. These events reflect LaVie’s deeper mission: not just telling women they are valued, but showing them.

“Women seek out LaVie knowing it is a safe, confidential place. They know that we love them. We genuinely care about them and want them to know they are valued, capable, and never alone,” said Richardson.

Even children get involved—running lemonade stands, hosting bake sales, and birthday drives, and asking for diapers instead of birthday presents. Kids bring the items directly to the center, inspired entirely on their own.

Community members donate new or gently used items such as swings, bouncy seats, and clothing. For urgent needs, premade emergency clothing bags of 15 items are available with no points required.

Two years ago, a Christmas Pop-Up Shop helped 14 clients buy gifts for their children—and unexpectedly, the moms received gifts too. They were deeply touched, reminding staff that mothers rarely think of themselves.

Last year, LaVie hosted its first Mother’s Day Open House for 24 clients—complete with breakfast, wrapped gifts, and a balloon arch for photos. Many were unaccustomed to being celebrated. LaVie now holds these events annually at Christmas and Mother’s Day.

“We can tell our clients how valued they are all day, but what truly matters is showing them through our actions,” Richardson said. Some women stayed for hours, feeling the love. Many say they know something is different the moment

they walk in. “This helps our clients feel supported and reminds them they don’t have to do this alone,” she said.

Options

LaVie discusses parenting, adoption, and abortion with clients. She notes that 90% of adoptions today are open, and that many women decide to keep their baby after birth. Her team works closely with adoption agencies throughout the process.

Richardson’s passion for adoption is personal—she was adopted and has an

adopted daughter. “It is a wonderful opportunity to choose life for your child,” she said, a conviction that comes through in every conversation.

A Difficult Decision

The word abortion drives conversations to extremes, leaving many women hesitant to seek help. Richardson addresses it the way she addresses everything — with calm, thoughtful understanding. Statistically, one in four women has had an abortion, a sobering reality that shapes how LaVie approaches every client.

At LaVie, the topic is never avoided — it’s met with compassion, not judgment.

Richardson’s message to women considering abortion is clear: “If you’re contemplating an abortion because you can’t financially provide for that baby, we want you to know that we will help you. We don’t ever want someone to feel like they have to have an abortion because they can’t afford what that baby needs.”

She recalled asking former clients, “What if I told you we would help you with the material items this baby needs — would that make a difference?” Each woman chose life, and LaVie kept their promise.

“Whatever we say we’re going to do, we do.” Many clients hesitate to ask for help, not wanting to take from others. Richardson meets that with grace: “Let us remove the stress from you. You shouldn’t have to worry about this. Just accept what we’re giving you. We don’t know what you need unless you tell us.”

Richardson also encourages young women: “Talk to your parents. Give them the opportunity to choose to support you. Don’t assume how they’ll react.” n

deal

by Tenell Felder

Southern Dreams Realty

Southern Dreams Realty is a fullservice real estate brokerage based in Lexington, founded by owner Amber Jovanelly with a vision for better service.

“I worked for a property management company years ago before I started Southern Dreams Realty. I thought there were things that could be done more effectively and efficiently. I wanted to have a flat fee to manage properties,” Jovanelly said.

Founded in 2012, the business is headed today by Jovanelly and Laurie Rowe, who is also the broker-in-charge. As a full-service brokerage, Southern Dreams Realty can assist with a wide range of property management and realty needs. Jovanelly noted that they work with customers throughout the entire process to help ensure a smooth experience.

“We sell real estate and offer property management for long-term and shortterm rentals. We provide everything from start to finish – evaluating the property, taking professional photos, and showcasing the property. We’re actually one of the few larger companies that still show the properties instead of allowing potential tenants to just go in and look at properties by themselves,” said Jovanelly.

“We also qualify the tenants with a top-of-the-line system. Our fee covers everything that an owner could possibly need when it comes to managing their property.”

Jovanelly is particularly excited about the company’s focus on managing vacation rentals and its recently acquired lake properties.

“This will be the fourth year that we have been offering vacation rentals. We focus mainly on lake properties. We recently purchased some cottages on Lake Murray and are going to renovate them,” said Jovanelly of the 12unit property.

“This is a fun project – we’re trying to bring it all together to make it vacationfriendly. It’s across the street from a marina and a new restaurant that just opened, so it’s a great location.”

For the real estate aspect of her business, Jovanelly noted that buying a home is one of the biggest purchases that a person will make and that Southern Dreams Realty is equipped to assist.

“Anything that you need when it comes to real estate, we can help you,” Jovanelly said.

“Our agents help investors on the property management side, as well as help buyers and sellers find a home or sell their house. Many times, we have clients who have had a negative experience or are frustrated. We want them to be able to call us and feel confident that they’ve called the right place. We’re going to be able to help them.”

For those aspiring to a career in real estate or property management, Jovanelly suggested developing skills in curiosity and continuous learning.

“If you want to work with real estate and property management, you have to continue to learn. Real estate is one of those careers where there’s always something different every single day. I’ve been in this career for 17 years and still see new things.” Jovanelly said, noting that it is also important to enjoy your job.

“It’s a fun job because you don’t always know what’s going to come your way that day. So, it doesn’t get old or boring.”

For Jovanelly, one of the most enjoyable parts of her job is helping people to find their homes.

“You’re basically putting people into a home that they’re going to make their own and make memories. As a realtor, you are a big part of that which is fulfilling.” n

Amanda Bryant Sales Agent

Courtney Westerlund Sales Agent

Jennifer Daniels Property Manager

Laurie Rowe Broker-In-Charge

Amber Jovanelly Broker/Owner

Tulip Boutique blossoms in its fifth year

by Betsey Guzior

After 20 years working in the legal profession in Columbia, Suzie Baughman decided she was ready for a change.

And she turned to one of the things she knows best: fashion for southern women.

“My husband always said I was a professional shopper anyway,” Baughman said when she brought up the idea of creating a fashion boutique in Lexington.

Now, five years later, she owns and operates Tulip Boutique, which sells a colorful array of dresses, shoes, and accessories that cater to women who want a vibrant wardrobe for everyday and special occasions.

With help from other women in the business, calling vendors of labels that she personally loves, designing the space with her husband and “watching a lot of YouTube videos,” Baughman opened a storefront in May 2021. In 2023, she expanded to double the space on Sunset Boulevard.

Tulip Boutique gets its name from her mother, whose favorite flower is the tulip. And the curated collections reflect the bright palette of the flower, with brands such as Emily McCarthy, Crosby by Mollie Burch, Elizabeth James, Sam Edelman, and Karlie.

The aesthetic ranges from “elevated basics to all things colorful.”

The brands reflect her personal taste, which has built a loyal customer base. “What I try to carry is more classic pieces you can keep in your closet forever, along with specialty pieces that are great for special events such as weddings,” she said.

You have to love color to be a regular customer. And many of them do: Women transitioning from a neutral wardrobe for work, or women looking to express themselves through color.

“I like black-and-white, too,” Baughman said. “It took a little while for me to expand

“I love being here and helping the customers and just getting to know people.” — Suzie Baughman

my closet and to start wearing more color, especially coming from a professional setting, a corporate world, to what I do now. I can wear fun dresses every day.”

She coaxes women into expanding their fashion palette by asking them to find a color they love, then building on it.

Sometimes all it takes is a pop of color from an accessory, a shoe or a necklace, or just a pair of colorful bottoms with a black top.

“Most of the time people are very surprised at how good they feel when they add in those fun pieces.”

The store does more than just sell clothing. Tulip Boutique is a place to sit and chat. Baughman and her “Tulip Girls,” as she calls her staff, are involved in the community by sponsoring such things as The Miss SC Organization, including Mistletoe Market right here in Lexington, the American Heart Association, and hosting giveback events for a multitude of charities they are passionate about.

“I love being here and helping the customers and just getting to know people,” she said.

On May 2, the store will be celebrating

its fifth anniversary, bringing in touches she used during its grand opening, with Azalea Coffee, free mimosas, a winner of a $500 shopping spree, and special gifts for customers.

When Baughman was a child, she often visited her father’s barbershop, where community members caught up with each other while getting their hair trimmed.

“Much like people coming in to chat and learning what’s going on, the community, and just being together. And I feel like I’ve created that here at Tulip,” she said. n

5175 Sunset Boulevard, #5 Lexington, SC (803) 622-3617 shopattulip.com

Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Friday; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday

Tulip Boutique

GOODeats

Ganbei Japanese Restaurant and Bar

Family-owned and customer focused

It’s all about food, drinks, atmosphere, and service.

Jonathan and Sandy Chen are a husband-and-wife team who own and operate Ganbei Japanese Restaurant and Bar. They’ve been in the restaurant business for 15 years. The years of experience, combined with active involvement, have made Ganbei what it is today.

The Food

The extensive menu includes many popular food items. “Sushi is our main seller, but of course we have other great things on the menu,” Sandy said. “We were voted the Best Sushi Restaurant in the 2026 Best of Lexington Life Magazine Contest.” Sushi options are numerous, including things like avocado rolls, smoked salmon rolls, and seaweed salad rolls.

Hibachi and Chinese dishes are also popular. Authentic appetizers like edamame, spring rolls, and potstickers are

by Kim Becknell Williams

the best sushi in town. The service is always great, and the staff is friendly.” Yelp reviews highlight the food and service.

The Drinks

A full bar is located inside the restaurant. Specialty drinks, martinis, sake, and Japanese beer are available. Ganbei is translated into “cheers,” which Sandy said is the reason they chose the name. Customers feel welcome, and many become regulars.

The Atmosphere

Part of the reason customers feel welcome could be because the Chens try to mingle with their customers and extend their hospitality. “Our restaurant is known for our regulars who come in,” Sandy said. “Since Jonathan and I both operate the restaurant, we always walk around and speak to our customers. We love new customers and we have our favorite regulars.”

The restaurant’s vibe is warm and inviting. “The waterfall helps create a relaxing atmosphere,” she said. In addition to inside dining, outside dining is an option, as well as to-go orders.

The Service

Service is important to the Chens. Sandy praised their restaurant staff. “Our staff is very knowledgeable, friendly, and has been here a long time,” she said. “They are welcoming to our customers.”

The Chens enjoy what they do. “We love our restaurant, and we love Lexington,” Sandy said. “We love to see everyone and enjoy smiling faces.”

Where to Find Them

Follow them on Facebook and Instagram. Specials, holiday schedules, and enticing food photos are posted on social media. Many of the food items are plated so creatively that they look like a work of art.

Purposeful Play

by Melissa Van Wyk

photos by Lorin Marie Photography

Why it makes sense

There is nothing quite like the last day of school. Celebrations echo down the hallways as kids excitedly exit the building, their backpacks bouncing behind. Teachers walk out of the building with a very wellearned sense of relief. Parents take their kids out for celebratory frozen yogurt or frozen ice.

But somewhere between the sweet treat and home, a reality starts to set in for parents. For the next eight weeks, the school year’s structure has disappeared. Suddenly, parents start to face new challenges like how to deal with summer boredom, incessant requests for screen time, and the pressure to keep kids engaged day after day.

What many parents do not realize is

that summer actually provides a unique opportunity. Those long summer days offer many possibilities for purposeful play. With a little creativity, you can use very simple activities to develop skills that will build independence, confidence, and competence. The best part? Your kids will have fun along the way!

As a pediatric Occupational Therapist, I encourage families to focus on three key skill areas during the summer months: fine motor, executive functioning, and regulation. Not only will these make summer days more structured and enjoyable for the parents, but it will also help to prevent the dreaded “summer slide.”

Fine motor skills involve the muscles

of the hands and include hand strength, coordination, and dexterity. They are crucial for everyday activities like getting dressed, opening containers, and using utensils. They are also foundational for many academic tasks like writing, cutting, or using school tools.

Executive functioning skills include things like problem-solving, memory, planning, and organizing. These skills help children follow multi-step directions, manage different tasks, and stay focused. The ability to demonstrate these skills sets your child up for success inside and outside of the classroom.

Regulation skills include things like processing sensory input, maintaining attention, and managing emotions. These skills help a child adapt to new environments and navigate social situations at home, at school, and in the community.

Purposeful play means intentionally providing opportunities for kids to engage in their natural environment while also being mindful of the skills they are developing along the way. Play is inherently intriguing and engaging to a child, which makes it the best pathway for learning. To keep the interests going throughout the summer, introduce a variety of activities

and allow them time to find success with the activity before gradually introducing more challenging ones.

Working in the school system for over six years with kids of all ability levels- and as a mom of three young boys- I have some advice to share.

First, chunk your day during the summer- it’s important to be mindful of heat and the sun when playing outside. We typically do our outdoor activities in the morning (pre-nap or before lunch) and save indoor, crafty activities for when the sun is at its peak. Also, schedule a time where nothing is planned. Boredom is not only okay, but also necessary. It builds important skills like problem-solving and independent thinking. It also encourages innovation and creativity.

Second, start by leading the activities, then step back. When you start by leading, you help them feel supported while learning the new task. When you step back, that’s when you can truly observe your child’s ingenuity and problem-solving skills. Give them positive feedback to make them feel confident when facing new challenges.

Third, help minimally. Offer the least amount of help needed to make your child successful. Kids learn more through a little trial and error. You are not going for perfection, just progress and confidence.

This summer, when that bit of anxiety starts to creep in, I hope you can come back to these ideas to help keep your summer fun, enjoyable, and meaningful. Small tweaks to your schedule and simple activities can make a big difference. If all else fails, think back to those simple ‘90s summers we all loved as kids and try to capture that same feeling.

Because play isn’t just fun, it’s what defines childhood. n

Summer activity ideas:

Fine Motor:

n Rock painting

n Sidewalk chalk

n Sensory bins (water tables are great for practicing scooping and pouring)

n Use a water bottle to water plants

n Simple science experiments (baking soda + vinegar is a family favorite)

n Play dress-up

n Pack a lunch and/or backpack for “backyard camping”

n Play with playdough and use plastic scissors to cut

n Start a neighborhood sticker swap or pen pal club (great for older elementary students)

Executive functioning:

n Go on a scavenger hunt

n Play I-spy in your home

n Build an obstacle course (indoors or outdoors)

n Follow a recipe from start to finish (bonus: builds fine motor skills)

n Complete a craft kit or LEGO set by following step-by-step directions

Regulation:

n Host a special family game night (encourage following rules, taking turns, and coping with not always winning)

n Spend time on a playground- let them climb, swing, and slide for excellent sensory input

n Practice yoga or take turns choosing animals for animal walk impressions

n Create a simple sidewalk chalk path for them to follow on the driveway

n Blow (and pop) bubbles

n Set up a cool and cozy reading nook for relaxation and quiet time

About the Author:

Melissa Van Wyk is a pediatric Occupational Therapist and owner of Make it Make Sensory LLC, a mobile private Occupational Therapy practice serving local children. She specializes in play-based therapy to support childhood development.

Relaxing Mother’s Day Gifts

While there is a wide variety of gifts you can buy for Mother’s Day, a good gift will focus on relaxation. Simply put, most mothers do not get enough time to sit back and enjoy leisurely activities. Mother’s Day should be about encouraging relaxation and stress relief. Here is a list of ideas to celebrate the mother in your life.

Aromatherapy Set

Aromatherapy is a great way to regulate mood and reduce stress. For example, lavender has been shown to reduce anxiety and improve sleep. An aromatherapy kit with lavender candles or essential oils is perfect for the mom who would enjoy and benefit from a calming environment.

Journal

Daily writing is therapeutic. According to research, expressive writing can regulate emotions and relieve anxiety. A journal kit that includes an aesthetic notebook, fun pens, and reflective prompts will encourage mindfulness, which is important for moms managing stress and anxiety.

Herbal Teas

Sometimes, a soothing cup of tea is all you need to calm the mind and body. Herbal blends are known to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. Put together a tea gift basket with chamomile, lemon balm, and peppermint teas for a natural way to fight stress and anxiety.

Bath Gift Basket

You can personalize your gift by making a gift basket of relaxing bath favorites. Bath bombs, bubble baths, shower steamers, fancy soaps, or face masks can all make excellent additions to a bath gift basket. You can pair this basket with a bathtub tray for added convenience.

Adult Coloring Book

No matter how old we get, there’s one childhood activity that will never go out of style: coloring. The perfect joint activity for moms and kids and a scientifically proven way to relax the brain, adult coloring books are having a serious moment.

Weighted Blanket

Getting optimal sleep can be challenging for moms who are on the go day in and day out. Weighted blankets mimic deep touch pressure therapy, calming the nervous system and promoting restful sleep.

Acupuncture Mat

Used to help treat many body ailments associated with stress, such as aches, pains, and muscle tension, an acupressure mat mimics the art of acupuncture by gently touching pressure points to release endorphins. It’s a particularly great gift for moms who may be wary of needles but are still interested in their health and wellness benefits.

Spa Day Gift Certificate

by Jessica Townsend

Nobody needs a spa day more than a mother with a busy routine. Whether she’s been talking about needing a massage or pedicure, tailor the spa treatment to her needs and give her the day off she deserves.

Wine

At the end of the day, every mom deserves the chance to unwind with a nice glass of wine. Pick one of her favorite varieties and let her indulge in some much deserved “me time.” Why stress relief gifts matter

The right stress relief gift will do more than just help someone feel good at the moment. It can support healthy sleep habits, improve focus, protect long-term mental health, build emotional resilience, and offer a sense of stability.

Every mother wants a gift that means something to her and reminds her of her family. These gifts will not only remind her of you every time she sees them but will also bring added relaxation on Mother’s Day. n

Costs

by Sarah Parrish

Subscriptions make spending feel easy. Music platforms, streaming bundles, fitness apps, cloud storage, and premium member ships can all feel inexpensive on their own. However, the combined total can quietly consume a surprising amount of money ev ery month. Many people do not realize how much they spend on recurring digital ser vices until they look at the total. Learning how to evaluate subscription costs can pre vent waste without eliminating enjoyment.

Here is a simple three-step process that works.

List Every Subscription and Note the Billing Frequency

Start with a full inventory. Look at your bank or card statements for the last two months. Write down every recurring charge, the exact amount, and how often it renews. Some subscriptions renew monthly. Others renew annually. Annual subscriptions often feel cheaper because they bill less frequently. When the total annual cost is divided by twelve months, the number may actually be higher than expected.

cost if usage is consistent. Convenience and novelty subscriptions are where a large portion of waste is found.

This step highlights which services actually deliver value and which ones simply linger.

Apply the “One Month Rule” and Decide What Stays

This step alone can reduce spending because it removes guesswork. A complete inventory shows the true cost instead of the perceived cost.

The final step is decision-based. Look at each subscription and ask: “Would I pay the same amount today if I were signing up fresh?” If the answer is no, that subscription is a candidate to be canceled. This question

Recurring charges are easy to ignore because they feel small and automatic. Evaluating subscriptions one by one creates awareness and choice. A simple three-step process makes it easier to see what is useful, what is enjoyable, and what is no longer worth the money.

People often think budget improvement requires major sacrifice. In reality, eliminating a handful of low-value subscriptions can free up money without decreasing quality of life. The goal is not to eliminate convenience. The goal is to spend intentionally. n

The New Faces and Tastes of

by Captain Tyler Ryan

Lake Murray

There is no doubt that the one constant thing about Lake Murray over the last ninety-some-odd years has been change. From the Dam itself, which started as an earthen structure and is now a full hydroelectric power station with a backup, to the 600 miles of shoreline that surrounds the billions of gallons of lake water.

Over the last few years, however, the region has undergone significant changes, and each spring offers new and diverse experiences, from restaurants and marinas to public spaces, for the ever-growing population of Lake Murray.

Capital City Lake Murray Country Executive Director Vickie Davis said, “The changes over the last fifteen years have been significant, but over the last couple, they have been transformative. The growth in tourism dollars will help save taxpayer burden,” pointing to many new and reimagined restaurants around the area.

One notable change that people are looking forward to is Pine Island, which had been owned by Dominion Energy, however, they transferred it to the State of South Carolina as part of a tax agreement. The island, which had been a private retreat for the power company, is now known as Pine Island State Park, near the Irmo side of the Dam, and is open to the public. Pine Island offers twenty-seven acres of lakefront to

Another sight visitors have seen over the last couple of seasons is the return of the Spirit of Lake Murray. The 80-foot dinner cruise boat has been a staple on the Lake since 2009, however, in 2022, she was purchased by Norm Agnew and Rick Crout, given a full makeover, and returned to service offering a full bar, a full menu, and even dockside dining in 2024.

Speaking of dining on the lake, there is an increasing number of restaurants and bars, from brand new to fully reimagined.

Pine Island State Park

Spirit of Lake Murray

Prosperity, the former Buffalo Creek has been transformed into Martin’s Landing, which offers inside and outside dining, a marina store, fuel, and, of course, if Mexican is your mood, you’ll find Nacho Margarita. You will also find one of the four boat club options, Freedom Boat Club, that has two locations on the Lake.

Also in Prosperity, you will find Fat Frog’s Marina. Matt Lyons, one of the owners of Lake Murray Boat Fun, said his group has several options, including the restaurant formally known as the Frayed Knot. Fat Frog’s offers fuel, docking, and Doolittle’s Watering Hole. It is also the location of two music festivals each year, Floatchella Lake Murray and Lake Murray Palooza.

Across the pond, in Leesville, you will find Lake Murray Resort, which, according to Lyons, also offers fuel, boat slips, the Driftwood Smokehouse, and a Carefree Boat Club location.

Lyon’s Team recently purchased Shealy’s Landing in Ballentine, where you will find the boat dealership Lake Life Marine and a second Carefree Boat Club location. Even with new services, one thing that won’t change is the name, noting that the community has known it as Shealy’s for years, and “it should remain that way forever.”

Putnam’s Harbor is another familiar name for generations of “lake lifers,” although if it has been a while since you were

there, you may not recognize it. General Manager Craig Baird said the location went through an “absolute overhaul.” He said that throughout the seven-acre property, you will find both 90 and 93 non-ethanol fuel, a full-service marina store, and 325 slips, both wet and dry. Baird said you will find food trucks, a boat ramp, and excellent customer service.

With the changes also come many new owners to Lake Murray businesses, including Bowline Marina, which recently purchased Lake Murray Marina, where you find Liberty on the Lake, Nautical Boat Club, and lake-side condos. According to General Manager Chris Bellinger, they are planning several upgrades, including a new gas dock with a ship store. Liberty also reopened after a kitchen area renovation.

Bowline Marina purchased Southshore Marina, and they have created dry boat stacks, offering more options for storage. Bellinger said that you’ll also find Freedom Boat Club’s second location, and the Southshore Grocery and Grill.

Another Lake staple, The Rusty Anchor and Catfish Johnny’s, is under new ownership, and with that comes a few changes, including the rebranding of the latter to the Nauti Turtle. One notable change is that the bars will remain open year-round, rather than seasonally. Like Shealy’s, the Rusty Anchor name will remain unchanged.

It isn’t just on the shore that you will find entertainment options. You have seen the SunDogs boat over the years. Owner Tom Shealy has upped his hot dog game, with an updated 26’ Tritoon boat, and extended hours all summer long, so you can look for the SunDogs Concession Vessel to come to you all summer.

Even with all the new owners, renovated entertainment options, and general changes, some tried and true locations remain,

Martin’s Landing

Fat Frog’s Marina Nacho Margarita

Lake Murray Resort

Big Man’s

including Jake’s Landing on the Lexington side of the Dam, with a public boat ramp, wet and dry slips, fuel, and the home of Lake Murray Boat Tours.

Siesta Cove, with fuel, a marina store, slip rentals, and RV parking, remains another long-standing marina, and of course, Big Man’s, with some of the best burgers on the lake.

“I think the lake is changing in a good way, bringing positive energy, geared toward customer service and helping out the people on the lake,” Bellinger shared. n

Liberty on the Lake

Putnam’s Harbor

Sun Dogs

Like their famous firefly cousins, Blue Ghosts light up the night in Appalachia mountains

by Betsey Guzior

Each spring, people flock to Columbia’s Congaree National Park to get a glimpse of fireflies that light up in sync, in a wondrous display of flight and light in the darkness of the cypress bog.

But did you know that just one state over, another nighttime display rivals the synchronistic fireflies? Just head over to parts of the Smoky Mountains.

You can go to wooded areas between 2,000 and 4,000 feet in elevation in the mountains and the valleys of the Southern Appalachians to see the display made by the Blue Ghost fireflies.

What are Blue Ghost Fireflies?

Blue Ghosts are the rarest of the 10 species of fireflies found in western North Carolina.

Instead of blinking like a light switch, Blue Ghost fireflies emit a soft blue and green glow, often as they hug the forest floor. Males fly low to the ground in an effort to attract wingless females, whose glow emits as they wait on the ground under litters of leaves.

Fireflies, or lightning bugs, are actually beetles, and not flies.

When can you see them?

Sightings have been found in western North Carolina, in Asheville, Pisgah National Forest, Great Smoky Mountains National

Park, and DuPont State Forest. There are two peak times: April through late May, and mid-June.

The best times to see them are 9-9:30 p.m. in the earlier time, and 9:30-11 p.m. in mid-June, to accommodate later sunsets.

How do you see them?

It’s more of a challenge to find a sparkle of fireflies than at Congaree, where you can find their light show just past the initial boardwalk. Small groups of Blue Ghost fireflies often gather in a crook of a valley or under decomposing leaves.

The National Park Service holds a firefly viewing lottery each year to limit visits. Reservations usually open in May through the website recreation.gov.

Private tours are also available. Explore Asheville lists hikes from May 7-16 and an overnight retreat from May 7-16. n

Why Walking Works

A Practical Guide to Better Health

by Catherine Bryant

Walking is sometimes treated as an afterthought in discussions about fitness. It is too easy to assume that meaningful health gains require running, lifting weights, or structured exercise programs. All of those things can be very helpful, but walking is an easy and practical way to improve your physical and mental health.

You do not need any specialist equipment to take a walk. It can fit easily into your daily routines, and it is suitable for almost every level of ability. If you want to see steady, manageable improvements in your well-being, a daily walk is one of the best foundations that you can set for yourself.

Physical Benefits of Walking

A routine of walking consistently will make a measurable difference to your cardiovascular health. Brisk walking, in particular, helps your heart to work more efficiently, supports better circulation, and can contribute to lower blood pressure. Like any exercise that raises your heart rate, a walk will also play a role in managing your body weight by burning some calories and boosting your metabolism.

If you struggle with fatigue or find higher-impact exercise difficult, walking can increase your stamina and energy levels. Given time, this will make other forms of activity more manageable. The key point is to walk before you run, perhaps literally. Aim for a gradual process rather than a dramatic transformation. Taken regularly, even short walks will accumulate meaningful fitness benefits over time.

Mental Benefits of Walking

The positive impact of walking is not just physical. Studies have found that it can help reduce stress, ease feelings of anxiety and improve your general mood. Research also suggests that walking outdoors is particularly good. Being outdoors exposes you to natural light, which supports healthy sleep patterns. The simple habit of walking for better sleep is especially useful if you have an irregular schedule. Fresh air and movement can also clear mental fog and help to restore concentration. Walking for focus and mental clarity is a practical way to reset during the day. Walking is also thought to aid cognitive function, including memory and problem-solving. Even short breaks for a walk during the working day can refresh your attention and reduce the strain of prolonged screen use.

Building Walking Into Daily Life

You will get the best results from walking when it becomes a consistent habit. This does not mean that you have to draw up a rigid training schedule. Aiming for 20 to 30 minutes of brisk walking each day gives you a useful target without feeling overwhelmed. You might prefer to do this as a single walk or split it into two shorter walks. This will depend on your daily schedule as well as your preferences.

Finding time for longer walks can be tricky, but you can incorporate short walks into your day. You might do this by walking part of the way to work, for example, perhaps just by parking a little further from the office. You can take the stairs instead of an escalator or walk to a more distant coffee shop during your lunch. If it is feasible, you could even try walking meetings with a colleague.

Varying your routes will prevent monotony. Short walks can be a good way to explore a little of the area around your home or workplace. Walking with a colleague, friend, or family member can be an added incentive. If you prefer some structure, use a fitness tracker to keep a log of your daily steps, time, or distance walked. This can be a good way to measure progress and have some accountability without too much pressure.

Lasting Results Through Small Steps

Walking does not promise an instant transformation, but its advantages make it perfect for steadily building a healthy habit. Over weeks and months, walking regularly will benefit your cardiovascular fitness, as-

sist with weight management, lower stress, and sharpen your mental focus.

Walking to improve your fitness is effective precisely because it is simple and adaptable. It is free and widely accessible. It is suitable for beginners but can

also be a useful part of a broader fitness plan. By approaching walking as a manageable, repeatable habit rather than a demanding workout, you make it easier to sustain and more likely to deliver long-term health benefits. n

Name Them

Italked with a younger friend. His favorite TV service was down. “I can’t take any more bad news.”

I watched closely. He wasn’t joking.

I remembered being nine years old and watching Daddy sit at the edge of what we called The Garage, and he’d stare at where the rain was dripping a line into the dirt.

“What are you doing, Daddy?”

“Watching it rain, son.”

This story repeated with each rain. My Daddy was crazy.

I turned twelve and questioned everything. “But why are you watching it rain, Daddy?”

“Well, son, when I was your age, it stopped raining. It didn’t rain for three years. Nobody told us the last time it rained was going to be the last time it rained.”

I was floored by this. How could it not rain?

Daddy described the Dust Bowl in western Kansas and how dust, drought, and starvation stretched from the panhandle of Texas up to Nebraska.

Daddy said several classmates starved to death in their beds along with their families.

The house Daddy grew up in had no

glass in the windows. They’d just pull a little door over the window to shut it. He said you could lie in bed and see stars through the roof. He also said they swept six inches of dirt out of the house every day for three years.

Cows died, and when they cut their stomachs open, their stomachs were filled with dirt.

Babies died, choked on the dust. Finally, it began raining. Everything greened up. Everybody planted a garden. Daddy’s Mom had corn chest-high and everybody was feeling good.

Then they saw another big, black cloud to the north, just like the big dust clouds they’d seen earlier. The next day they heard a strange buzzing sound. The day after that they woke up and everything green was gone. Daddy’s little brother Dean had left a shovel in the garden the day before. He busted into the house crying: “Somebody stole the shovel!” Upon closer inspection, they found the shovel in the dirt, but the locusts that had eaten everything else had eaten the shovel handle, too.

Several people in town killed themselves that day. They just couldn’t take any more

bad news.

One thing Daddy said 55 years ago still sticks with me: “Hard times can come anytime, son. It didn’t affect us as badly as you might think, because we’d never really known good times, so we didn’t know any better. But you’ll see hard times before your life is over, son, and it’s liable to affect your generation a lot harder than it did us. Because you’ve had it better, and you won’t know how to cope when things go wrong.”

Daddy’s stories and lessons were several layers deep. He learned early on how to cope with bad news, because that’s mostly all they got. And he learned to appreciate deeply any rare speck of good news.

Count your blessings. Name them one by one. Give thanks to God. n

crossword puzzle

Across

1. Florist supply 6. Fitzgerald of jazz

1. Florist supply 6 Fitzgerald of jazz

Shrewd storybook cat

.Intimate

.Den 16.Aztec contemporary

.Three breaks

20."Cakes and ___" (Maugham)

.Three breaks 20."Cakes and ___" (Maugham)

21.Religious rationalist

22.They're in their element

23.Hits the roof

25.Pound of letters?

27.Hunky-dory

28.Temple outcast

29.HMO workers

32.Wide rift

35.Like The Fonz

36.Convinced

37.Four breaks

40."Star Wars" royalty

41.Book part

42.Snide

41.Book part 42.Snide

43.Better-than-anything ending

44.Soviet news bureau

45.Crony

44.Soviet news bureau 45.Crony

46.Anjou relative 47.Evolve

46.Anjou relative

.Evolve

51.Like one who's seen a ghost

Down

51.Like one who's seen a ghost

54.Display histrionics

56.Relative of .net or .org

57.Three breaks

60.Crew on the high seas

61.Frivolous

62.Go from E to F

63.Knuckle under

64.Loads

65.Ibsen's "An ___ of the People" Down 1.Travel documents 2.Quite sufficient 3.Overindulgence 4.Tony winner Wallach 5.Set of identifying traits

1.Travel documents

2.Quite sufficient

3.Overindulgence

19."Duke of ___" 24."Peter and the Wolf" bird

4.Tony winner Wallach

5.Set of identifying traits

6.Legendary Spanish knight 7.One-time French protectorate 8.Took to the skies 9.Boxer's greeting 10.Madonna rendition

65.Ibsen's "An ___ of the People"

19."Duke of ___"

24."Peter and the Wolf" bird

26.Novelist defender of Dreyfus

44.Nobelist Morrison 45."Pistol ___" Maravich

44.Nobelist Morrison

45."Pistol ___" Maravich

46.Harold Robbins novel (with "The")

26.Novelist defender of Dreyfus

28.Shreds

6.Legendary Spanish knight

7.One-time French protectorate

8.Took to the skies

.Pluto, for one

29.Pluto, for one

."Darn it!"

30."Darn it!"

31.Hot

.Hot

.Merry king

32.Merry king

.Tints

9.Boxer's greeting 10.Madonna rendition

11.Nullify

12.Patsy's downfall

13.Remarks

13.Remarks 18.Nerdy type

18.Nerdy type

33.Tints

.Busily working

34.Busily working

.Sound surge

35.Sound surge

.Musty

36.Musty

.Unfortunately

38.Unfortunately

.Fish through rubbish

46.Harold Robbins novel (with "The")

47.Peace signs

48.One way to get a flat?

49.Loathing

50.Like thick orange juice

51.Considering

52.Dueler's injury

53.Smug racer

55.Tuna treat

58.Deep matter?

39.Fish through rubbish

59.Flemish painter van Eyck

spice OF LIFE

Mother’s Day AfternoonTea

Cucumber Sandwiches

8 oz cream cheese, softened

¼ cup mayonnaise

¼ cup sour cream

⅛ tsp onion powder

¼ tsp black pepper

1 tsp lemon zest

2 Tbsp lemon juice

2 Tbsp fresh dill, chopped

1 cucumber

1 loaf of bread

Mix cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, onion powder, black pepper, lemon zest, lemon juice, and fresh dill. Use a mandoline to slice the cucumber into extra-thin slices. Spread a layer of the cream cheese mixture onto one side of each piece of bread and layer cucumber slices on top. Cut the crusts from the sandwich to form a square and cut the sandwich on the diagonal to form two triangular sandwiches. Continue assembling sandwiches until you have used

Chicken Salad Puffs

1 package puff pastry

2 cups chicken, grilled & chopped

1 cup celery, diced finely

1 cup grapes, halved

½ cup onion, finely chopped

½ cup mayonnaise

1 tsp salt

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Cut the puff pastry into squares and arrange on a baking sheet.

Brush pastry squares with melted butter, sprinkle with salt, and bake for 12-14 minutes, until golden brown. Combine chopped chicken, celery, grapes, onion, and mayonnaise and stir until well combined. On the bottom half of each puff pastry square, spoon 2-3 Tbsp of the chicken salad mixture. Top with the other half, securing with a toothpick if desired.

Spinach Quiche Bites

1 package pie crust

6 eggs

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup spinach, chopped

½ cup bacon, cooked & crumbled salt and pepper, to taste

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Roll out the pie crusts and cut them into circles to fit a mini muffin tin. Press the crusts into the muffin tin to form small cups. Whisk together the eggs and heavy cream and season with salt and pepper. Place a small amount of cheese, spinach, and bacon in each crust. Pour the egg mixture over the fillings until just full. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the egg is set and the tops are golden. Let it cool slightly before removing from the tin.

Tomato Cheese Tartlets

1 puff pastry sheet

2 tomatoes, thinly sliced

¾ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

1 Tbsp olive oil

¼ cup basil leaves, chopped

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp black pepper

1 egg, beaten

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Roll out the puff pastry, cut into 3-inch circles, and place on a prepared baking sheet. Score a smaller circle inside each and dock the center with a fork. Brush edges with egg wash. Layer a tomato slice, shredded cheese, salt, pepper, and basil inside each tartlet. Bake on for 15–18 minutes until puffed, golden, and the cheese is melted. Let cool slightly, then drizzle with olive oil and garnish with extra herbs.

Blueberry

Scones

1 ¾ cups flour

¼ cup sugar

2 ½ tsp baking powder

¼ tsp salt

½ cup butter, cut into cubes

½ cup blueberries

½ cup milk

1 egg

Zest of 1 lemon

1 Tbsp lemon juice

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs and then gently fold in the blueberries. Whisk together the milk, egg, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Combine wet and dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a circle about ¾ inch thick. Use a biscuit cutter or a knife to cut out scones. Bake on a prepared baking sheet for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Mini Cheesecakes

1 (12 oz) package vanilla wafers

2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened

¾ cup white sugar

2 eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line two 24-cup miniature muffin tins with paper liners. Crush vanilla wafers into fine crumbs. Press ½ tsp of the vanilla wafer crumbs firmly into the bottom of each paper liner to create the crust layer. Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth, then add the sugar, eggs, and vanilla -

Chocolate Covered Strawberries

12 strawberries, rinsed & dried

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

1 Tbsp coconut oil

Combine chocolate chips and coconut oil and heat in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Hold the strawberries by the leaves and dip into the melted chocolate, coating nearly to the top. Rotate to ensure even coverage. Refrigerate for about 15 minutes until the chocolate hardens. Melt additional chocolate, place it in a piping bag, and drizzle over set strawberries, then chill again.

Lemon Cookies

1 box (15.25 oz) lemon cake mix

2 eggs

½ cup vegetable oil

confectioners’ sugar

Combine cake mix, eggs, and vegetable oil. Place the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to chill. Preheat the oven to 350℉. Form dough into 1-inch balls and roll in powdered sugar. Place balls of cookie dough on a prepared baking sheet and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Cool on cookie sheets for 5-10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Classic Tea Options

• English Breakfast, strong and traditional

• Earl Grey, light citrus flavor

• Green Tea, fresh and calming

• Herbal Teas, chamomile, hibiscus

• Iced Tea, peach, lemon, raspberry

Serve with:

• milk or cream

• sugar

• honey

• lemon slices

• fresh mint n

bined. Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each prepared muffin liner, filling almost to the top. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheesecake filling is set and no longer looks wet in the center. Once cooled, top each with 1 tsp of cherry