Issuu

D E C E M B E R 2 02 0

Let There Be Joy!

LI F E + C U LTU R E A L EG ACY T O PRESERVE H O PE WAL K T H E WAL K TAK I N G I T AL L I N

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

DECEMBER 2020 PUBLISHER

Mike Tucker | MTucker@LifestylePubs.com EDITOR

Chelsea Lyn Agro | Chelsea.Agro@LifestylePubs.com

Capable. HERE I AM, DECEMBER. With the flip of a calendar page, I've made it. And, this year, it feels extra worthy of celebration. As I write this letter to you, I hesitate in between words because it is still fall and there is still time for the zombies to make their appearance this Halloween. I'm not being dramatic when I say I hope this letter doesn't outdate the world I've come to relearn this year by the time you are reading it. With each word I hear, don't speak too soon whispering in the background noise.

MANAGING EDITOR

Erika Fredrickson | Erika.Fredrickson@LifestylePubs.com ACCO UNT MANAGER

Ted Huter | Ted.Huter@LifestylePubs.com PUBLISHER A SSISTANT

Marla Huggins | Marla.Huggins@lifestylepubs.com STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS

Inspired By Montana | InspiredByMontana@Gmail.com, Open Lens by Pamela | OpenLensbyPamela@Gmail.com AD DESIGNER

Whitney Lockhart

In all seriousness, I feel tired. 2020 has taken its toll on me, physically and emotion-

L AYO UT DESIGNER

ally. Despite welcoming my first child into the world, my heart feels a little heavy

Dani Moore

with the burdens that I've carried this year: not hugging my friends and family, going to appointments alone, dealing with a health issue, being shoulder-deep in fear, and overall, just feeling isolated in a world of isolation. I've said the words, it's all just

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Shelby Humphreys, Nicolette Martin, Susie Wall

been a lot. It feels like too much more than I imagined I would. But when looking back, which I often do every December, I am amazed at my own capabilities. I have carried the load. At times, unwillingly, but still, I've carried the load and it's because I was built for this weight long before I knew I could carry it.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

When I feel overcome with the emotions of being a new mother, I am rejuvenated by

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

his tiny feet beside my keyboard, his binkies near my work station (which, let's face

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

it, is often times the couch). It signals to me that I have done important work and I

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

haven't given up on my favorite work: that of being a mother, a wife, an editor. I am

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

built to withstand the cruel words or insensitivity of others and I am built for the

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

ever-flowing love that streams from my family. My cup still runneth over despite it all. This month might be hard on some, if not all of us. Family may not be coming to visit, we may not take that flight home, and we may feel lonely even at a crowded table. I want you to remember how capable you are of weathering the storm. You

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

Chelsea Lyn Agro, Editor

ON THE COVER A young woman fly fishing at Maclay Flats on a foggy winter day.

PHOTOGRAPHY INSPIRED BY MONTANA 4

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | December 2020

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

Proverbs 3:5-6 Missoula Valley Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Missoula Valley areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Missoula Valley Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE DECEMBER 2020

FEATURES 10 Taking It All In Jelt Belts give back while you wear.

16 A Legacy to Preserve Hope Jadyn Fred Foundation helps Montana families.

23 Walking the Walk A journey down the winding life path of unassuming spiritual leader Francis Chan.

10 16

34 Maclay Flat Nature Trail Getting outside this winter.

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Around Town

Trend Setter

Inspired By

23 Giving Back 28 DIY 32 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Parting Thoughts

AROUND TOWN

WHIP OUT THE SKATES! Located at the fairgrounds, Glacier Ice Rink has both an indoor and outdoor rink. With reasonable rates on rentals and public skating available daily proudly located in the heart of Missoula, MT

from September through May, the whole family will have fun gliding around the large arena. Another option for ice skating is in the Rattlesnake Area, at Pineview Park. Since 1975 the Rattlesnake Hockey Association has been flooding a portion of the park for winter skating. Hours vary due to the weather, and you'll need to bring your own skates.

CROSS COUNTRY SKIING Have you ever tried cross country skiing? Are you looking to get outside and see where this winter season can take you? Here are a few places that spell adventure:

Dr. Amy Haynes N.D., founder of Full Circle Natural

Medical Clinic, practices holistic medicine in Missoula, MT. For over 35 years, Dr. Haynes has used natural methods to treat the whole body, rather than masking symptoms.

Another Option Beyond Pain Meds and Surgery Full Circle Natural Medical Clinic is delighted to offer Regenerative Medicine to restore joint and back function naturally!

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REGENERATIVE MEDICINE is an exciting new field of therapy that specializes in rejuvenating body function and tissues. It includes therapies such as: • Prolotherapy • Placental Allografts, 2 nd Gen Stem Cell Therapy • Platelet Rich Plasma • Facial Rejuvenation • O-Shot/P-Shot • Prolozone Therapy

and listen to the familiar jingle of horses ahead.

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Missoula Valley Lifestyle | December 2020

MissoulaValley using the Get In Touch link and let us know what you think.

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LET US GUIDE YOU THROUGH THE WOODS ~ WWW.SUPERIOR -HARDWOODS.COM CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

TREND SETTER

Ta k i n g I t

ARTICLE SHELBY HUMPHREYS | PHOTOGRAPHY INSPIRED BY MONTANA

ALL IN

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | December 2020

JELT BELTS GIVE BACK WHILE YOU WEAR

DO YOU JELT? If your recycling bin is full of plastic

“There’s no metal so it’s easy to get through

bottles, then, yeah, you Jelt. Do your dollars do dou-

airport security,” said Jen. The success of that

ble-duty by going to businesses who donate back to

belt allowed Jen and her crew to create two more

your community? For sure, you Jelt.

models. “We saw a need for a more rugged ver-

With her company, Jelt Belt, Jen Perry has spun

sion, so we created the Jelt Venture. It’s wider

functional fashion into a socially conscious lifestyle.

and has a bigger buckle. Plus, we’re still able to

“Jelting is more than wearing a stylish, comfort-

use recycled plastics in the webbing. We also

able, grippy belt,” said Jen. “It’s about living life to

wanted a more adjustable belt so we created the

the fullest, caring about the future of the planet,

JeltX. It’s wide, has a square buckle, and fits from

enriching the lives of our youth, and giving back to

25 to 45 inches.”

those who protect our freedom.”

The JeltX headlines a new Collegiate Collection

Headquartered in Bozeman, the company strives

that celebrates UM and MSU. With a logo on the

to close the recycling loop by making belts from

buckle, customers can show their school pride and

recycled plastics. They’ve incorporated upcycled

support their favorite Montana team. In addition,

materials into a slim, modern design without com-

the buckle boasts an embedded magnet for easy,

promising dependability.

snap-and-go wear. The collection includes both

“The buckle has a flat profile and there’s a gripping gel on the inside so you can wear it with or without belt

university designs but—shhh, don’t tell anyone—it started with the Bobcats.

loops,” Jen explained. An avid skier, she found inspira-

“You’ve got to give both schools their due,” Jen

tion for a grip-and-stick gel in the tech fabrics of ski

said. “It started with MSU but so many of my friends

fashion. “I designed the gel after the powder skirt on

are from Missoula that I quickly applied for the UM

my ski jacket. It grips and doesn’t slip,” she said.

licensing. Plus, I’m really proud that 9% of every

Their most popular belt, the Jelt Original, sports a minimalist practicality.

sale goes to Grizzly programs. When you buy a belt you’re giving back to the school.”

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

TREND SETTER (CONTINUED)

Philanthropy and integrity are at the heart of Jelt Belt. Products are made in the U.S.A., and the company has earned certification as a B Corporation. “It’s a social enterprise designed to give back,” explained Jen. “I survived a near-death experience. After recovering, I volunteered for a local nonprofit called THRIVE that helps support and strengthen families. While there, I noticed that businesses were sending in checks. Big checks. I thought, what kind of company can I start, so I can be the one writing those big checks?” In addition to THRIVE, the company donates to two more nonprofits. “This year, we chose Oceana. They really captured our hearts. In the past, we’ve supported Montana organizations like Yellowstone Forever,” said Jen. They also sell a Jelt designed with the logo of the Warriors and Quiet Waters Foundation, Inc. which connects veterans with the sport of fly fishing. “Members of my family have served in the military. Our camo print is really popular right now. When people wear it, I hope they wear it with pride in our veterans and not just as a fashion statement.” Jen’s concern for others drives her business sensibility. She understands how Jelt Belt can help turn the hubs of Montana economies and give local businesses more traction. “I need to be about something more. It wasn’t easy to get collegiate licensing but I’m proud that we can give back with our collection. I’m looking forward to when our school spirit can kick back up again. It’s such a big part of the community.” 12

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | December 2020

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INSPIRED BY

ARTICLE SUSIE WALL | PHOTOGRAPHY INSPIRED BY MONTANA

a legacy

to preserve hope JADYN FRED FOUNDATION HELPS MONTANA FAMILIES

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | December 2020

SINCE 2003 THE JADYN FRED FOUNDATION

they could help other families throughout Montana

HAS PROVIDED 1,144 MONTANA FAMILIES WITH

travel to children’s hospitals in Seattle, Denver, and

MORE THAN ONE MILLION DOLLARS TO HELP

Salt Lake City.

WITH THE CARE OF THEIR SICK CHILDREN. Jadyn Fred was three and a half years old when

“They wanted Jadyn to be remembered through helping other families,” said Lynn.

she was diagnosed with Pancreatoblastoma, an

When the foundation first started it focused solely on

extremely rare form of cancer. This diagnosis required

children with cancer but the family then began to realize

Jadyn and her parents, Alecia and Britt, to travel to

there were children with other needs that could ben-

Seattle Children’s Hospital for the next three years

efit from support. A tier system was started to award

seeking treatment in the form of chemotherapy, radi-

financial aid based on the various levels of care needed

ation, and nine operations. Throughout her ordeal,

by a child. Tier 1 provides $1,759.00 in financial aid to

Jadyn remained a strong and caring child. Jadyn’s

families with children currently in cancer treatment. Tier

grandfather and executive director of the foundation,

2 provides $1,078.00 to families with children that have

Lynn Fred, says she’s never complained.

life-threatening medical needs outside of cancer. Tier

“All the doctors loved her,” said Lynn.

3 provides $706.00 to families with children who have

Tragically, Jadyn did not survive her incredible

special needs that don’t require major medical care

battle. She passed away on March 23, 2001 leav-

and have an almost 100% chance of survival. Examples

ing a huge hole in her family but in turn, inspired

would be a hole in the heart or minor surgery.

a dream to help other families as they go through the same ordeal.

Families that are looking for assistance can go the foundation’s website, www.jadynfred.org, to complete

This dream took shape over several years as Jadyn

an application. A verification letter is also submitted

and her family traveled to Seattle Children’s Hospital

that allows Lynn to talk to a child’s medical team to find

where they saw the toll this necessary travel placed

out treatment schedules and necessary procedures at

on other families. Lynn Fred and his wife Sandee

the hospital. The applications then go to the founda-

lived in Seattle so they could help support the Fred

tion’s board of directors that consists of thirteen individ-

family on their many trips.

uals including medical professionals. These members

But Lynn says, “Britt and Alecia noticed a lot of families that lived out of their car or trailer. And

vote as to what tier level the child will receive. Families can continue to apply up to four years.

then there was a percentage that couldn’t even go

The goal of the financial aid is mainly to cover mileage,

to Seattle since it was too expensive. We found that

lodging, and food. Parents and siblings that accompany

there was always a child in Jadyn’s room that didn’t

the ill children often have to find their own lodging as

have a family there so we kind of adopted them.”

space is limited at the hospital and support places like

Seeing how hard it was on these families finan-

the Ronald McDonald House can be very hard to get

cially and emotionally led Britt and Alecia to establish

into. Families might have to stay up to six weeks at a time

the Jadyn Fred Foundation after Jadyn’s passing so

while their child receives treatment.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

INSPIRED BY (CONTINUED)

Courtney Imhoff, event manager for the foundation, explained the basis for the monetary gifts. “It’s meant so the families can take that money and utilize it for necessities because we don’t want them to have to worry about these things that moment. They just need to get that care for their kiddo. Having enough money for food or a hotel room shouldn’t be the things that they worry about. The foundation is meant to ease that burden.“ Lynn said that every family with a sick child goes through their own personal ordeal. “Some people have no money at all. They don’t even have a checking account so in rare instances we have written checks directly to a motel.” Gas cards are also given out if needed but often the family simply receives a check that they can use for necessities. When asked how the foundation has evolved over the years, Courtney said the most noticeable aspect is the amount of families that have needed help has grown dramatically. In 2003, when the foundation first started, four children were helped. That number grew to 145 children in 2019. The pandemic has slowed the number of applications in the early months of 2020 but the foundation is now receiving between five to ten applications every week. “Sometimes the foundation is a little too modest,” said Courtney. “They have never turned away a family.”

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | December 2020

Each Christmas the foundation also provides families with much needed joy and celebration at their annual Christmas party. The foundation finds sponsors who in turn “adopt” a family, buying presents not only for the ill children but also for their parents and siblings. Some sponsors have even purchased gift cards for a mom and dad not realizing that a child’s life-threatening illness is all consuming for a family. The event is catered by Famous Dave’s and includes attendance by the sponsors and foundation board members. It’s not only a time for individual families to come together but also a time for them to see that they are not going through this alone. “All these people come in and suddenly notice there are other families like them in their situation. It makes for a very happy night,” said Lynn. “We’re told by families every year that Christmas wouldn’t be happening if it wasn’t for the foundation because they can’t afford it. It’s making that tradition stay alive for that family.” Unfortunately COVID-19 will have an impact in 2020 on the regular Christmas celebration but the foundation is hoping to provide 22 families this year with gift cards based on their tier levels.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

INSPIRED BY (CONTINUED)

There are many ways in which Missoula

play a round at the golf scramble the next day

community members can help the Jadyn Fred

at Larchmont. If you would rather donate your

Foundation. Recurring and one-time mon-

time, Lynn said the foundation is always look-

etary donations can be made through their

ing for volunteers. Â

website, www.JadynFred.org. You can also

If you would like to find out more about the

become a Christmas sponsor and participate

vital support the Jadyn Fred Foundation pro-

in a time of joy for these struggling families.

vides to Montana families and how you can

The Jadyn Fred Foundation dinner and auc-

help visit their website at www.JadynFred.org

tion is held each July at the Hilton Garden Inn

or call or email Lynn Fred at 406.370.2159 or

where you can bid on auction items and then

JLynnFred@msn.com

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | December 2020

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GIVING BACK

WALKING THE WALK

A JOURNEY DOWN THE WINDING LIFE PATH OF UNASSUMING SPIRITUAL LEADER FRANCIS CHAN

FROM THE PULPIT OF A THRIVING MEGACHURCH OF MORE THAN 5,000 MEMBERS AND GROWING, TO A HOME IN THE POOREST REGION OF HONG KONG. From authoring a New York Times bestseller, to being surrounded by people struggling to make it by on just 50 cents a day. For most, it probably sounds like a tale of riches to rags; an unfortunate result of someone falling upon hard times. But for Francis Chan, it’s exactly what his soul needed—an opportunity to fulfill his God-given purpose of becoming a man who can truly say he practices what he preaches. And it was all by his own choice (with maybe a little guidance from above). Francis, born in San Francisco, was raised in a traditional Chinese home and navigated a challenging upbringing. His mother died during childbirth. His father remarried, then his stepmother died in a car accident when he was 8. His father remarried again, then, when Francis was 12, died of cancer. Francis was around 14 when he was introduced to a youth group by a friend. “I fell in love with Jesus,” he says, explaining that it was

ARTICLE NICOLETTE MARTIN

then he decided if there really was a Heaven and Hell, it didn’t make sense to spend his life doing anything other than telling people about Him. Twenty-six and newly married, Francis and his wife Lisa founded Cornerstone Community Church in Simi Valley, California in the early 90s, beginning with 30 people. Within the first two months, the church grew to 100. In 2000, the church grew even more, to 1,600. By 2008, Cornerstone Community Church was one of the largest in Ventura County and Francis’ new book “Crazy Love” was a New York Times bestseller. CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

GIVING BACK (CONTINUED)

Watch the full interview @ CityLifestyle.com! Then, in 2010, Francis decided to leave it all. But, he wasn’t leaving God. He was separating himself from the megachurch that had started in his living room as he and other elders began to question its direction. “Was this really what the Church is meant to be? Is this all God had in mind when he created His Church in the first place?” Francis questions in his second book Letters to the Church. “We began to wonder if our definition of a church actually fit God’s definition.” “Everything had grown to be very dependent upon one person,” he continues. “The Bible tells us that every member of the body has a gift that is necessary to the functioning of the church. When I looked at what went on in Cornerstone, I saw me and a few other people using our gifts, while thousands just came and sat in the sanctuary for an hour and a half and then went home.” After leaving Cornerstone, Francis wrestled with what the next step was. He and Lisa ended up selling their Simi Valley house and moving their family of six at the time overseas to India, Thailand and China. And the $1 million his bestselling book made in the first year, plus the money it continues to make? Francis signed it all over to a charitable gift fund helping the poor and victims of human trafficking. “We witnessed the simplicity of the lifestyles in rural Thailand, and the joy of the men and women who served widows and orphans day in and day out” “You meet these believers that just blow your mind. It’s everything the Bible talks about,” Francis says, inspired by those he’s met throughout his travels. “Some of the

It was after that Francis believes he was called back to the

godliest people, the most committed...people that I

States, and the Chan family ended up back in San Francisco.

admire and aspire to become like. If I can get past my

This time, much like the beginning of Cornerstone, Francis

own hunger for comfort and enjoyment and really sac-

and Lisa once again felt a calling to plant a church.

rifice like I’ve seen some of these people do, I know I’ll have even more fulfillment in life.”

What started this time was We Are Church—an organization passionately pursuing what God wants in a church, done through

“People tha t I ’ve f ou nd that have spent t h ei r l i ves tr uly loving o t h er s a r e t h e jo yf u l peopl e.” 24

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | December 2020

values and practices like devotion to scripture,

committing

churches of 10-20 people meeting in a home, and calling everyone to share the gospel and make disciples.

“Som et im e s you sh ed som e t h i ngs an d you re alize i t ’s a c t u a l l y bet t er ; s om e o f t he th i ng s w e t h ou gh t w ou ld brin g us in t o t h e p r esenc e of G od actually now di st r a c t u s.” Francis’ extensive time overseas has shown him a contrast

In the throes of a pandemic, quarrels over U.S. politics, a

between the American church and the spirituality and Godly

growing divide among people and beliefs, and the unsurety of

lives of others across the world, and now struggles with see-

life, Francis’ vision of where the concept of church is heading—a

ing the division in the church, due in large part to growing

non-prophetic guess, he clarifies, laughing—can be summed up

issues of individualism and pride.

through a story of his daughter Rachel, when she was 5 years old.

“Try to look at the church in America from an outsider’s

“We regularly visited this rundown place in our city called

perspective, Francis challenges. “Is that really where you

Paint Pals,” he laughs, reminiscently. “There was this old maze

would look for answers— knowing the divisiveness; know-

you walked through with only a few walls, some little ceramic

ing all the scandals; knowing everything you know about it?

things you could paint and this big bubble machine that was

The church is in a really poor state and it in some ways feels

just a hula hoop dipped in bubble solution.”

like it’s getting worse.” “I wish we could learn and see the sacrifice of others,” he continues. “Overseas they’re just obsessed with each other.” Francis, pretending to hold up a phone facing himself, goes on to describe how he sees this generation as a generation all about taking selfies; noting that you could be in the Grand Canyon or Niagara Falls and you’re always in the picture—always the center of everything.

“One day I was just like, ‘Honey, this week I’m going to take you to Disneyland!’ And she was like, ‘What’s that?’” he says. “I go, ‘You have no clue. This is like the happiest place on Earth. You’re gonna go nuts!’” Francis says Rachel began to get very sad, asking if they could just go to Paint Pals. “She’s working herself into tears,” he laughs. “Like, you’re crying because I’m about to take you to Disneyland.”

“All we really need to do is hit that little button that switches

“I feel like we’re just like Rachel when she was 5,” he says,

it off selfie mode,” he says. “And now I can’t even see myself. All

fondly recalling the Paint Pals days. “We’re accustomed to

I see is God and those around me. People that I’ve found that

certain things and God has something so much better for us. I

have spent their lives truly loving others are the joyful people.”

believe he’s leading us all into a deeper intimacy with Him that

Much like separation from his megachurch setting,

is just off the charts. Sometimes you shed some things and you

preaching in front of thousands, and the continued growth

realize it’s actually better; some of the things we thought would

of We Are Church exudes, Francis continues to spread the

bring us into the presence of God actually now distract us.”

belief that people are the church.

Nearly six months ago, Francis’ path led him to the Sham

“It’s not about going to a place and needing a critical mass

Shui Po area on the Kowloon side of Hong Kong with most

of 8 people or 1,000 people or this or that; it’s the person of

of his family, including his wife, all but one of his daughters,

Christ and enjoying that,” he says. “I really believe the Lord

two sons-in-law and two grandchildren. It’s a place where he

wants us during this time to go back to the scriptures, rethink

later found is where his mother also did ministries in the 1950s,

‘What did he really want the church to be?’ Believers have

and allows him the continued humbling opportunity to live out

been scattered since the beginning of the church. People

his journey through the Gospel, working with the ultra poor

were alone, people were in little groups and found each other

to bring relief, sharing the word of God and, you guessed it,

and enjoyed Christ together.”

planting churches.

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

Give us a call and weâ€™ll be there chop-chop.

call 542-SEED

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | December 2020

M O R G E N R OT H M U S I C C E N T E R S RENT-TO-OWN B A N D A N D O R C H E ST R A

Educator approved instruments for the budget conscience. “Voted Missoula’s Best Music Store for 17 consecutive years!”

Life is short...don’t forget to play!

o Back t l o o h c S

1105 W Sussex, Missoula, Montana 59801

www.montanamusic.com 406-549-0013 CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

DIY

bullet journaling 101

Let’s face it—in today’s so-much-to-do-

and-so-little-time cultural mindset, it can be hard to keep track of everything we need to do. Wake up—did you get enough sleep? Brush your teeth. Feed the kids. Feed the dog. Get ready for work. Make your lunch. Those are just six things to think about in the span of 15 minutes after your alarm goes off. With all of these things to keep track of and

our lives moving a mile a minute, anything we

THE BASICS YOU NEED TO KNOW TO START ORGANIZING YOUR LIFE + ACCOMPLISHING YOUR GOALS

can find to streamline our obligations (and our thoughts) can be a lifesaver! Enter: bullet journaling. It’s equal parts calendar, meal tracker, diary, self care and, well, really anything else that you want to keep tabs on! The “mindfulness practice disguised as a productivity system,” coined by creator Ryder Carroll, can help you master the art of intentional living—any way you want to.

ARTICLE NICOLETTE MARTIN | PHOTOGRAPHY ESTÉE JANSSENS

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | December 2020

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

DIY (CONTINUED)

what you need There’s so much you can do here with just a notebook (you’ll probably want one with a dotted grid) and a pen! If you want to add some creative flair, consider incorporating markers, stickers and washi tape.

start simple When you start searching for bullet journaling on Pinterest, it can get really overwhelming really fast. Decide what is most important for you to keep track of and start with that! If you try to do too much at once, you’ll be less likely to stick with it.

make it your own The most important thing to remember is that it is for you and not anyone else. Use your favorite colors, doodle things that help

symbols s ymbol char t

A bullet journal really becomes what you make it. Use symbols that speak to you! Here are some basics to start with:

Task

Event Note

Complete

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | December 2020

you out and make it work for you!

how-to how - to

page styles t ypes of pages in a bullet jour nal + Mood tracker

+ Spending log

+ Activity tracker

+ Bucket list

+ Exercise tracker

+ Reading list

+ Ideas list

+ Yearly goals

+ Chore list

+ Happiness log

+ Budget tracker

+ Sleep tracker

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

DECEMBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

accessing a gun on their own and

options in a small, interactive setting

injuring themselves or others. It’s

that prioritizes time for questions

PUPPY CLASSES

also an important step in preventing

and answers. This workshop is pre-

those in crisis from accessing fatal

sented by Mary Olson, volunteer and

Unleashed_MT

means. This session will introduce

MAS Social Security Specialist. Call

Did you bring home a pandemic puppy

the Be SMART program to protect

406.728.7682 to register.

this year? Does that puppy need some

kids and teens from unintentional

obedience? Join in on the fun! Puppy must

shootings and suicide. Registration

have first set of vaccinations which include

required: Register in advance for this

Parvo/Distemper and puppy parents are

zoom

required to wear a mask and social dis-

zoom.us/meeting/register

meeting:

https://us02web.

tance when working with their puppy. Cost is $15 per session or $65 for all six sessions.

12 LITTLE RED TRUCK EUROPEAN CHRISTMAS MARKET

LEARN TO PLAY HOCKEY

21 HOLIDAY BREAK DAY CAMP: PAJAMA PARTY!

Zootown Arts Community Center

Spend your whole day off making art in your pajamas! In these two full day camps, you will create fun art projects, play art games, and sing karaoke. This

Missoula County Fairgrounds

pajama party is available Monday,

Glacier Ice Rink

Vintage, handmade, and gift vendors

December 21 and Tuesday, December

8:30 or 9:45 a.m. start times. Kids ages

galore! Don't miss this shopping

22 for ages 6 to 12. Cost is $65. Enroll

four and up will learn the basic skills of

extravaganza. There's a sneak peak on

today at ZootwonArts.org.

hockey in a fun, safe environment. Skating

Friday, December 11 from 5 to 8 p.m.

experience is helpful but not necessary.

with an admission cost of $10 (which

Cost is $65 and includes equipment. Visit

includes free entry Saturday or Sunday

GlacierIceRink.com for more information.

between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

BE SMART: A CONVERSATION ABOUT GUN SAFETY

VIRTUAL SOCIAL SECURITY WORKSHOP

Would you like to get in touch with

Zoom

Contact

Join the two-hour session where you

MissoulaValley using the Get In Touch

critical to protect children from

can learn about your Social Security

link and let us know what you think.

Zoom

Storing

firearms

responsibly

us? We would love to hear from you!

Locally Owned & Operated for Over 20 Years

We are Missoula’s Coolest Hotspot!

Great Happy Hour Specials on Food & Drinks. The Perfect Place to Watch Sports with Friends. BREAKFAST • SANDWICHES • BURGERS Join us at 3621 Brooks Street • 406.728.3228 • Visit us on Facebook to see our current specials, menu, and events! 32

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | December 2020

CityLifestyle.com/

406-721-9359 www.signpromissoula.com

· Digital Printing · Vehicle Decals and Wraps · Window Graphics · Site Signs · · Parking Signs · Sandwich Boards · Banners · Dimensional Lettering · Trade Show Displays ·

CityLifestyle.com/MissoulaValley

PARTING THOUGHTS

M AC L AY F L AT GETTING OUTSIDE THIS WINTER

ARTICLE CHELSEA LYN AGRO

N AT U R E TRAIL

PHOTOGRAPHY INSPIRED BY MONTANA

EVEN THOUGH STAYING INSIDE WITH A HOT CUP OF COCOA SOUNDS DELIGHTFUL (LET’S ADMIT, IT IS!), WE SHOULD GET OUTDOORS THIS WINTER AFTER A LONG YEAR OF QUARANTINE OR WORKING FROM HOME. The cold air beckons us to suck it in and let it fill our lungs. Maclay Flat Nature Trail is an ideal winter getaway for bird watching or a quiet walk along the Bitterroot River. It’s the perfect winter paradise to have a holiday photo session for those looming holiday cards or an ideal place of peace if Christmas shopping has your spirit worn out. Maclay Flat Nature Trail is GET OUTSIDE

dog friendly so long as they are leashed and polite. Bring your furry friend with you and enjoy what this season has brought to one of the most picturesque spots nearby.

Missoula Valley Lifestyle | December 2020

Dr. Stephen P. Hardy

Board-certified Plastic Surgeon

Christy Lopp APRN, FNP-C, WHPN

We all want to look and feel our best, and advancements in modern medicine are making this goal safer and more effective than ever before. Unfortunately, as the popularity of cosmetic surgery grows, some patients may seek treatment before they have fully researched the surgeon they choose to perform their procedure. At Northwest Plastic Surgery Associates, we are committed to helping you achieve your desired aesthetic outcome in a safe, professional environment. Dr. Stephen P. Hardy is a board-certified plastic surgeon offering an unparalleled level of care to patients in Missoula, Whitefish, Butte, Helena, and surrounding communities.

To learn more about the benefits of trusting your care to a certified plastic surgeon, and to undergo evaluation for any of our services, schedule a consultation with us today. SAF E T Y | QUA L IT Y | E T H ICS | S E RV ICE | E X C E L L E N C E

Missoula Office 2802 Great Northern Loop Missoula, Mt 59808 406.728.3811

Helena & Whitefish By Appointment Only

406.728.3811

nwpsa.com