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free! FEBRUARY 2018

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vibrant • vocal • vivacious

• Sweets for the Sweet • DIY Gifts • Heart Health Month

Celebrating Our 14th Anniversary!

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Help us Celebrate!

In celebration for our 14th anniversary, 14 lucky people will win tickets to see a play at Barter Theatre in Abingdon, VA. Join in on the fun on Voice Magazine’s Facebook page on Feb. 14!

February 2018 | Volume 15 | Issue 2

Go OVER THE EDGE for Children and Families

DIY Gifts That Won’t Break the Bank

Enjoy the Valentine’s Day Color of Red

Hanoi, Vietnam

February Hot Hunk Hunt! The January “Hot Hunk” was Mark Hamill on page 9.

James Corden Each month Voice will “hide” a picture of a “Hot Hunk.” If you find him, fill out this form, mail it in, and you could win 2 tickets to Barter Theatre.

Congratulations to: Betsy Palmer Gray, TN

as the winner in the January Hot Hunk Hunt!

Thanks to ALL for sending in your entry!

Name: Address: City: State: Zip Code: Phone Number: Email:

HOT HUNK LOCATION: Where did I pick up my copy of Voice Magazine?

Mail this submission form to: Voice Magazine P.O. Box 701 Johnson City, TN 37605 or e-mail: hothunk@voicemagazineforwomen.com Deadline for submission is February 20, 2018. PLEASE, ONE ENTRY PER HOUSEHOLD As the selected winner, you must contact Voice Magazine for Women at 423-926-9983 within 90 days to claim and receive your prize. After 90 days, winning becomes null and void and the prize cannot be claimed.

Nancy Binder 14

Jan-Carol Publishing New Releases 16

Audrey Person Photography

VoiceMALE

Sweets for the Sweet 9

Ken Heath 18

Caregiver Distress 19

Valentine’s Day Desserts

Heart Month

Happy Valentine’s Day to My Home Martha McGlothlin 12

Savannah Bailey 13

FLIP THIS ISSUE!

voicemagazineforwomen.com | February 2018 | 3

FREE Celebrating Celebrating our our 13th 14th year! We We wouldn’t wouldn’t be be here here and and there there without without all all of of you! you! LITTLE LITTLE CREEK CREEK BOOKS BOOKS MOUNTAIN MOUNTAIN GIRL GIRL PRESS PRESS EXPRESS EXPRESS EDITIONS EDITIONS ROSEHEART ROSEHEART PUBLISHING PUBLISHING DIGISTYLE DIGISTYLE

From the EDITOR

n the month of February, Voice Magazine for Women celebrates 14 years as doing business in the region, and moves into the 15th year of being an established local business. In looking to the past years, I feel a gamut of emotions—the ups and downs of running a business, and the sadness of seeing people come and go from the company. The best emotion I feel is gratefulness, every time someone tells me that they ‘just love the magazine.’ I will never get tired of hearing those special words! I want to say ‘thank you’ to all of you who have supported Voice Magazine for Women from the beginning, and remain loyal to us! You have seen us through the tough times, good times, and the times full of change. Thank you for always being there! We would not be here without all of you! This year is a benchmark for our continued growth. Our sister magazine, Modern Day Appalachian Woman, Appalachian Living, continues to grow and will be changing this year. Our growth in our book publishing will be expanding with more titles available, and our authors will grow with their book distribution. Our presence online has grown by leaps and bounds, so be sure to enroll to receive our newsletters and visit our websites, voicemagazineforwomen.com and jancarolpublishing.com, and you can now order books from JCP’s website. ‘Like’ us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to keep current on our 2018 events, activities, and sponsorships. Help us celebrate! In celebration for our 14th anniversary, 14 lucky people will win tickets to see a play at Barter Theatre, Abingdon VA. Join in on the fun! As we start this new year, we are excited to welcome back to our sales team Jamie Bailey! Also new to the company, we want to welcome Julia Parsell. A former business owner of the successful coffee shop in Bristol, VA, Java J’s, we are happy to have Julia join us! As we plan and schedule for this new year, our motto for 2018 is to be positive, productive, and progressive. We want each of you to travel with us as we plan our new journey for 2018. Verse of the month: “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Philippians 4:13 KJV Thought of the month: “If you want more, you have to become more. For things to change, you have to change. For things to become better, you have to become better. If you improve, everything will improve for you. If you grow, your money will grow; your relationships, your health, your business, and every external effect will mirror that growth in equal correlation.” Jim Rohn, American entrepreneur, author and motivational speaker

Janie C. Jessee, Editor

“every “everystory storyneeds needsaabook” book”

voicemagazineforwomen.com voicemagazineforwomen.com •• jancarolpublishing.com jancarolpublishing.com Serving Serving Northeast Northeast Tennessee Tennessee and and Southwest Southwest Virginia! Virginia! PUBLISHER PUBLISHER Jan-Carol Jan-Carol Publishing, Publishing, Inc Inc PO PO Box Box 701 701 Johnson Johnson City, City, TN TN 37605 37605 EDITOR EDITOR Janie Janie C C Jessee, Jessee, 423.502.6246 423.502.6246 editor@voicemagazineforwomen.com editor@voicemagazineforwomen.com publisher@jancarolpublishing.com publisher@jancarolpublishing.com FEBRUARY FEBRUARY CONTRIBUTING CONTRIBUTING WRITERS WRITERS

April AprilHensley Hensley Ken KenHeath Heath Julia Parsell

Nancy NancyBinder Binder Pam PamBlair Blair

Tracy TracyFletcher FletcherMcGlothlin McGlothlin Martha McGlothlin Savannah Bailey

OFFICE OFFICE Brandon Brandon Goins Goins -- Office Office Assistant Assistant office@voicemagazineforwomen.com office@voicemagazineforwomen.com office@jancarolpublishing.com office@jancarolpublishing.com Office Office Phone/Fax: Phone/Fax: 423.926.9983 423.926.9983 Savannah Savannah Bailey Bailey Communications Communications Director/Production Director/Production Editor Editor communications@jancarolpublishing.com communications@jancarolpublishing.com SALES SALES Jamie Jamie Bailey Bailey jamie@voicemagazineforwomen.com jamie@voicemagazineforwomen.com 423.384.8402 423.384.8402 Julia Julia Parsell Parsell julia@voicemagazineforwomen.com julia@voicemagazineforwomen.com 828.216.1207 828.216.1207 GRAPHICS/PRODUCTION GRAPHICS/PRODUCTION Tara Tara Sizemore Sizemore -- Senior Senior Graphics Graphics Designer Designer tara@voicemagazineforwomen.com tara@voicemagazineforwomen.com graphics@jancarolpublishing.com graphics@jancarolpublishing.com DISTRIBUTION DISTRIBUTION Karen Karen Corder Corder Staff Staff JCP JCP Internships Internships Available Available

Celebrates Celebrates 14 Years!

We into our our15th 15thyear. year. Weare arecelebrating celebrating14 14 years years and and moving moving into Thank here because becauseof ofall allofofyou! you! Thankyou! you!Voice VoiceMagazine Magazine for for Women Women is here We hope that thatyou youwill willprovide provide Wethank thankyou youfor foryour yourcontinued continued support; support; we hope ususthat our next next14 14years! years! thatsame samesupport supportas as we we journey journey into our Stillgoing going strong strong as the region's Still region's ONLYWOMEN'S WOMEN'S MONTHLY MONTHLY MAGAZINE! ONLY MAGAZINE!

Fromall allof ofus us to to all of you—Thank you—Thank you! From you! 4 4 || February February 2018 2018 || voicemagazineforwomen.com voicemagazineforwomen.com

PUBLISHED PUBLISHING, INC. PUBLISHED BY BY JAN-CAROL JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC. (Volume (Volume 15, 15, Issue Issue 2) 2) While While every every precaution precaution has has been been taken taken to to ensure ensure accuracy accuracy of of the the published published material, material, Jan-Carol Jan-Carol Publishing, Publishing, Inc. Inc.//Voice VoiceMagazine Magazine cannot cannot be be held held responsible responsible for for opinions opinions or or facts facts provided provided by by its its authors, authors, advertisers advertisers or agencies. All rights are reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without written or agencies. All rights are reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without written permispermission. sion. Agencies, Agencies, Advertisers Advertisers and and other other contributors contributors will will indemnify indemnify and and hold hold the the publisher publisher harmless harmless for for any any loss loss or or expense expense resulting resulting from from claims claims or or suits suits based based upon upon contents contents of of any any advertisement, advertisement, defamation, defamation, libel, libel, right right of of privacy, privacy, plagiarism plagiarism and/or and/or copyright copyright infringement. infringement.The The views views expressed expressed in in Voice Voice Magazine Magazine for for Women Women are are not not necessarily necessarily those those of of the the publisher. publisher. © © 2018 2018 EDITORIAL EDITORIAL MISSION: MISSION: Voice Voice Magazine Magazine for for Women Women wants wants to to provide provide aa useful useful and and complete complete reliable reliable source source of of information information for for women and their families. We seek to celebrate women’s women and their families. We seek to celebrate women’s successes, successes, and and support support their their growth growth by by defining defining and and recognizing recognizing their their needs needs and and providing providing aa concentration concentration of of resources resources for for them. them. We We want want to to be be that that “link” “link” to to all all women. women.

HOW TO DRIVE MORE EFFICIENTLY Driving efficiently can make roadways safer, benefit the environment, and save drivers considerable amounts of money. • Obey the speed limits. The U.S. Department of Transportation notes that, in 2015, 27 percent of motor vehicle crash deaths were speeding-related. But according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, obeying the speed limit is also cost-effective. The EPA notes that miles per gallon begins to dip dramatically when vehicles travel above 55 miles per hour. While each vehicle is different, the EPA notes that increasing highway cruising speed from 55 miles per hour to 75 miles per hour can raise fuel consumption by as much as 20 percent.

• Do not idle a vehicle. The Environmental Defense Fund notes that electronic engines do not need to warm up, even in winter when temperatures are especially cold. Vehicles that are idling can produce as much pollution as vehicles that are in motion, and idling for as little as 10 seconds wastes more gas than restarting the engine. Drivers concerned about overtaxing their engines shortly after starting them can warm their engines by easing into their drives and avoiding excessive revving. • Use cruise control wisely. Drivers concerned about fuel economy may be accustomed to turning on their vehicles’ cruise control when driving long distances on the highway. While that is an effective and fuel-efficient way to maintain steady speeds, turn cruise control off when traversing roads with steep hills. On such roads, fuel efficiency can be lost because the vehicle engine is working harder to maintain steady speeds. • Tighten the gas cap. When gas caps are loose, fuel evaporates. The Car Care Council notes that loose, missing, or damaged gas caps contribute to the evaporation of roughly 147 million gallons of gas per year. That’s both wasteful and costly. When filling up at the gas station, turn the cap until your hear it click.

LIGHT THE WAY FOR SAFER NIGHTTIME DRIVING!

• Accept your own vulnerability. The human eye is not adapted for nocturnal vision. As a result, drivers’ visual acuity may be reduced by as much as 70 percent when driving at night. Cloudy, dim headlights only exacerbate that problem, further compromising the safety of everyone on the road. Avoid aggressive driving, and always obey the speed limits, even when it’s late at night and roads are empty. • Learn to recognize headlamp clouding. According to the automotive lighting innovator Lumileds, sunlight, ozone, road pollution, and even chemicals used in car washes can contribute to headlamp clouding. Clouded headlamps often appear hazed and yellow, and reduce headlight output considerably. Routine headlamp inspection can help drivers discover clouded lamps that can greatly compromise nighttime visibility. • Restore clouded headlamps. Clouded headlamps do not necessarily need to be replaced. The Philips Headlight Restoration Kit can help drivers restore their clouded headlamp lenses. The kit employs a protective UV coating that effectively restores yellow, hazy lenses that have been compromised by years of exposure to the elements.

Your car matters. It’s why I’m here. Sheila Wandell CLU, Agent 2313 Browns Mill Road Johnson City, TN 37604 Bus: 423-722-AUTO www.wandellinsurance.com

I see more than just a car. I see what your car really means to you and I’m here to give it the protection it deserves. LET’S TALK TODAY.

Tips for driving in the snow: • Accelerate and decelerate slowly. • Drive slowly. • The normal, dry pavement following distance of three to four seconds should be increased to eight to ten seconds.

• Know your brakes. • Don't stop if you can avoid it. • Don't power up hills. • Don't stop going up a hill. • The best safety—stay home. Source: aaa.com

State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company State Farm Indemnity Company Bloomington, IL 1706953

State Farm County Mutual Insurance Company of Texas Richardson, TX voicemagazineforwomen.com | February 2018 | 5

YWCA Celebrates 10 Years of Prom Dress Sale

One of the most special events in the life of a teenage girl is prom night. While the night’s glitz Go OVER THE EDGE and glamour is a big part of what makes it memorable, the cost of formalwear is a financial impossibility for many families. Our regional YWCA is making sure every girl in northeast for Children and Families Tennessee and southwest Virginia has access to affordable formalwear fit for an unforgettable evening.

How passionate are you about helping This season marks the tenth anniversary of the YWCA Prom Dress Sale, which features children in our region? Are you over the top hundreds of like-new prom dresses, shoes, and accessories donated by the surrounding enough to go OVER THE EDGE? community. A service project of the YW Junior Board of Directors, the Prom Dress Sale offers all dresses for only $25 each and has outfitted thousands of girls affordably for their special night.10 Scholarship vouchers ign up to go Over the Edge and rappel stories down the are also available for girls in need of a deeper discount.

iconic tower at the Bristol MotorThis Speedway. This extraoryear, the YWCA Prom Dress Sale will be held in two locations for increased accessibility. dinary fundraising opportunity will help provide The first sale will bemuch held at YWCA and February 24 from 9 a.m. – OverNETN the Edge is SWVA open toon theSaturday, first 85 brave individuals who p.m. at 106 State Street, Bristol, Tennessee. A second sale will be on raise Saturday, needed funds for area children and5families. raise $1,500. Interested organizations canheld even fundsMarch 3 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.and at the Wise County School Board Campus at 628 Lake Street NE, On Saturday, April 7, YWCA Northeast Tennessee to “toss the boss.” Chief executive officer of YWCA NETN/ Wise, Virginia. Volunteers are needed during both sales to assist girls in finding a gown that Southwest Virginia, and the Bristol chapter of Speedway SWVA, Kathy Waugh, states, “What we need most are courathey feel confident and beautiful in. Children’s Charities are partnering up to give local brave geous individuals who are willing to go over the edge to help hearts a new perspective of The World’s Fastest Half-Mile The YWCA accepts donations of like-new and accessories year round. Gowns uplift others informalwear our community. This fundraiser will have a sizes andproceeds up are especially needed. Additional drop off locations are at the East and how thrilling helping others can be.14All will massive impact for the working parents and at-risk girls we Tennessee State University Women’s Resource Center and Wise County School Board office. benefit the two charitable organizations. serve every day.” Claudia Byrd, executive director of the Bristol chapter of should not be a concern any potential “edgers.” Proceeds from the sales benefitSafety YWCA programming and is a for project of the YWCA Junior Speedway Childrens Charities shares, “Thrill seekers are in Over the Edge, a professional rappelling organization, has facilBoard of Directors. The YW Junior Board is a diverse group of young women ages 20-40 who for a real treat during this one-of-a-kind, have 10-story a desireexperience. to acquire more leadership skills within the and community. For more itated over 500and safeservice and successful events 25,000 edgers information about the Prom Dress Sale or Junior Board, please contact Tammy Henkel The Bristol tower is an iconic landmark in both the local since 2008. Each Over the Edge event is set up as an industrialat YWCA andfor SWVA 423-968-9444. and NASCAR communities, and the perfectNETN location this atworksite, and as a result, is compliant with all federal and fundraiser.” state OSHA Fall Protection Standards. If you are pumped at the thought of participating in this adrenaline-inducing, once-in-a-lifetime event, please ### visit https://otecwe.com/bristol or contact Katy Stigers at k_stigers@ywcabristol.org. However, if you are not the adventurous type, but would like to contribute to an individual edger, a donation can be made at the link above. YWCA Bristol 106 State St., Bristol, TN, 37620 P 423.968.9444 F 423.968.5937 ywcabristol.org

6 | February 2018 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Enjoy the

Bristol Bridal S tation

Valentine’s Day COLOR OF RED!

New Year. New Hours

Wednesday-Friday 11-5 Saturday 10-3

As wearable colors go, red may seem more daunting than some other colors. Red is bright, bold, and unapologetic—but that doesn't mean you have to wait for a big night out to pop on a little red something. Wear the color red, and incorporate crimson into your work and weekend wardrobe, whether you are going for a subtle pop of color or something more bold. The color red is one of the boldest, most flattering, and exciting shades that one can wear, which explains its unwavering popularity. Some would even consider it a neutral. (Two fun facts: Red also means beautiful in Russian, and seeing the color can make your heart beat faster.) But what other colors complement the color red? Reach for a bag or pair of shoes in this bright color. They will be just eye-catching enough, and add that little something extra to a classic black outfit. If you are wearing a red skirt, keep the rest of your look fairly neutral. Go for complementing black-and-white pieces in simple silhouettes to keep it understated. If wearing red as the primary color, the basic accent colors are black, cream, and white. To add more vitality to red, try stylish vibrant hues such as army green, bold teal, or mustard yellow. Either way, you'll get a clear picture of which hues work the best with red for your style and skin tone. For a causal jean ensemble, but if you're not sure that red is your best color, try a solid red sweater with a red stripe blouse underneath, topped off with a yellow scarf around the neck. If green matches your eyes, toss an army green scarf around the neck instead, for the perfect accent! You will be surprised! Yes – you can wear red!

Photo credit Rachel Wilbur Photography

By Jan Howery

beginning January 2018 New Wedding Gowns, Bridesmaids and Mother-of-the-Bride dresses up to 75% off retail value

New • Affordable • Couture bristolbridalstation.com | 423.968.9444 bristolbridal@ywcabristol.org Located inside YWCA Bristol 106 State Street | Bristol, TN 37620

Walk Ins Welcome

129A east main st abingdon va open mon–sat 11–6 just a block down from Barter Theatre

(Anne Klein Crepe Cardigan Jacket, Miz Mooz Brady Boots, Sanctuary Hand Craft Skirt)

voicemagazineforwomen.com | February 2018 | 7

eet Audrey Ann Person, the firstplace winner of Voice Magazine for Women’s Front Cover Photography Contest in our September issue. Audrey’s photo was part of her Bridal Heritage Project, and featured model Kayla Cox of Snowville, Virginia. Hailing out of Dublin, Virginia, Audrey covers a wide range of photography including portraits, weddings, and events. Audrey grew up in the western United States where “dirt and honesty and Authentic Mexican food are easy to come by.” Her passion is honest story telling through her photography. “I like to and help you capture those special moments just as you remember them.” After moving to Virginia six years ago, Audrey fell in love with the natural, romantic beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Audrey is passionate about helping couples and families tell their stories from start to end. Her goal always, and this month especially, is to “ignite the fire that will fuel your memories for the rest of your life.” You can find Audrey’s work on her website, audreypersonphotography.com, as well as a list of the services she and her team offer. Her services range from quick portraits and headshots, to engagement or pregnancy photos, to all day weddings or commercial events. Audrey and her team will even help you document the legacy of your family’s farm. You can schedule a photoshoot or consultation with Audrey right from her website’s ‘Services’ page: audreypersonphotography. com/services. To read more about or directly from Audrey herself, check out her blog, “The Wonderful Tiny Life,” where she details her and her husband’s endeavor to live ‘tiny,’ as well as her various adventures at photoshoots. You can also shop her prints, and bring Audrey’s passion from her home to yours. In Audrey’s words, “Life isn't perfect. There is no reason to try and make people think that it is.” So why not let Audrey Person Photography capture the beautiful imperfections in your life? 8 | February 2018 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

First-place winner of Voice Magazine for Women’s Front Cover Photography Contest, featuring Kayla Cox.

Pictured above and below: Engagement photos of Corey Dobbins and Alli Bryson, of Johnson City.

Sweets for the Sweet! Valentine’s Day is a popular time to indulge in sweets. In fact, according to Nielsen, more than 58 million pounds of chocolate candy will be sold during the week of Valentine’s Day. Chocolate is a favorite on Valentine’s Day, making it a perfect gift or dessert. Chocolate wasn’t always the sugar-sweetened dessert people consume today. The history of chocolate dates back to 1900 BC, when Aztecs believed the cacao seeds were the gift of Quetzalcoatl, the god of wisdom. Chocolate was made into fermented beverages, and the cacao beans also were used as a form of currency because they held so much value. According to the History Channel, some ancient civilizations considered chocolate to be a mood enhancer and aphrodisiac. Chocolate was believed to have mystical properties and was revered so much that it was reserved for rulers, warriors, and priests.

Do You Know Your Chocolates?

• Cocoa powder: This is the unsweetened raw form of cocoa made from partially de-fatted chocolate liquor. Dutch-processed (alkalized) cocoa powder is milder and less acidic than natural cocoa powder. • Unsweetened chocolate: “Bitter” or “baking chocolate” are other names attributed to unsweetened chocolate. It is best used in baking when it can be combined with sugar and other ingredients. It is also the base ingredient of most forms of chocolate, with the exception of white chocolate. • Dark chocolate: Chocolate that contains only chocolate liquor, sugar, cocoa butter, vanilla, and lecithin is considered dark chocolate. No milk solids are added in. The higher the percentage on the wrapper, the more bitter the chocolate. • Milk chocolate: In addition to dark chocolate ingredients, milk chocolate also contains dry milk solids or condensed milk. It is sweet and has a mild chocolate taste. • Bittersweet and semi-sweet: These chocolates are milder than dark chocolate, but not as sweet as milk chocolate. Many chocolate manufacturers derive their own formulations for these types of chocolate, varying the amount of cocoa solids they include.

• Couverture chocolate: An expensive chocolate, this is coveted by professional bakers or confectioners. It contains a high percent of cocoa butter and chocolate liquor, which helps it to melt evenly. It is ideal for tempering and can coat candies smoothly. • Ganache: Ganache is a whipped filling, glaze, icing, or sauce that is used in various desserts. It is made by heating cream and pouring over chocolate of any kind. When cooled, it is malleable but not runny, which is why ganache is often used in making candies or fillings. • Truffle: A chocolate truffle is made from a ball of ganache rolled in cocoa powder. Truffles can be made from any variety of chocolate.

7 Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

Protection from Disease-Causing Free Radicals. Potential Cancer Prevention. Improved Heart Health. Good for Overall Cholesterol. Better Cognitive Function. Improved Blood Pressure and a Blood Sugar Aid. Antioxidant-Rich Super Food. voicemagazineforwomen.com | February 2018 | 9

erator. Holding each cookie by one end, dip half of it in the melted chocolate. Set it on a waxed paperor parchment-lined tray. When all of the cookies are dipped, return them to the refrigerator for a few minutes to set.

Vanilla cookies for your Valentine’s sweetheart Traditional Valentine’s Day gifts include jewelry, flowers, and, of course, confections. While Romeos might want to leave their Juliets’ jewelry and floral arrangements to the professionals, those who want to personalize this year’s Valentine’s gifts can try whipping up a batch of cookies for their special someone. The following recipe for “Biscotti Ripieni (Vanilla Cookies with Chocolate Buttercream Filling)” from Michael White’s Fiamma: The Essence of Contemporary Italian Cooking (Wiley) checks all the boxes: It’s a dessert, it’s sweet, and it includes chocolate. Those three things are sure to delight any sweetheart with a sweet tooth this Valentine’s Day.

Biscotti Ripieni (Vanilla Cookies with Chocolate Buttercream Filling)

Makes about 18 filled cookies 1⁄2 cup sugar 12 Tablespoons (1 and 1⁄2 stick) unsalted butter 1 large egg Grated zest of 1 navel orange 1⁄4 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon salt 10 | February 2018 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Whip up a Devilish Indulgence this Valentine’s Day

Buttercream 1 large white egg 1 and 1⁄4 cup sugar 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into small cubes and softened 1⁄2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1⁄2 cup bittersweet chocolate, chopped into small pieces Instructions: Preheat the oven to 325 F. Line a cookie sheet with parchment. In a mixing bowl, cream the sugar and butter together until smooth. Stir in the egg and orange zest, then add the flour and salt, and stir together until smooth. You can also do this with an electric mixer, if desired. Transfer the dough to a pastry bag fitted with a medium-size plain tip, about 1⁄2-inch wide, and pipe thin strips about 2 inches long onto the pan, leaving about 2 inches between each strip. Bake in the lower one-third of the oven until lightly browned on the edges, 8 to 10 minutes. Remove with a spatula to a rack and let cool. Meanwhile, prepare the buttercream: Combine the egg white and sugar in the top of a double boiler or a metal bowl that fits over a pan of simmering water. The bottom should not touch the water. Heat until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is slightly thickened, whisking continuously. Immediately remove the bowl from the water and begin beating the mixture with a handheld electric mixer. Continue beating while slowly adding the butter. Beat until the mixture is room temperature and thickened, about the consistency of a thick confectioners’ sugar-butter frosting, 10 to 15 minutes. About halfway through, the buttercream will look ugly. Keep beating; it will become smooth and thick. Beat in the vanilla. Cover and refrigerate for 10 to 20 minutes. To assemble, place half the cookies upside down (flat side up) on a sheet pan and spread each with a thin layer of buttercream. Top with the remaining cookies and refrigerate the tray until the buttercream sets, 10 to 15 minutes. While the cookies are in the refrigerator, melt the chocolate in the top of a double boiler set over simmering water, stirring until smooth. Remove the inset and cool the chocolate to room temperature. Remove the cookies from the refrig-

Homemade desserts can be a great way for men and women to show their significant others how much they’re loved on Valentine’s Day. While the following indulgent recipe for “Devil’s Food Layer Cake” from Elisabeth M. Prueitt and Chad Robertson’s Tartine (Chronicle Books) takes a little effort, the results are well worth the work.

Devil’s Food Layer Cake

Yields 1 10-inch cake; 12 to 16 servings Cake layers 3⁄4 cups all-purpose flour 4 and 1⁄2 tablespoons cornstarch 1 teaspoon baking powder 1⁄2 teaspoon baking soda 1 and 1⁄4 cups cocoa powder 1 teaspoon salt 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature 2 and 3⁄4 cups sugar 5 large eggs 1 and 1⁄4 cups full-fat buttermilk Chocolate Ganache 24 ounces or 32 ounces of bittersweet chocolate 3 cups or 4 cups heavy cream 1⁄2 cup plus 1 tablespoon caramel Preheat the oven to 350 F. Butter and lightly flour the sides of two 9-inch cake pans, knocking out the excess flour. Line the bottom of each pan with parchment paper cut to fit exactly. To make the cake layers, sift together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt into a bowl and set

aside. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter on medium-high speed until light and creamy. Slowly add the sugar and continue to beat on the same speed light in color and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until incorporated before adding the next egg. Stop the mixer and scrape down the sides of the bowl with the rubber spatula. With the mixer on low speed, add the flour mixture in 3 equal batches alternately with the buttermilk in 2 batches, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Stop the mixer, scrape down the sides of the bowl and then mix again for another few seconds. Divide the cake batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake until the top springs back when lightly touched or a cake tester inserted in the center comes out clean, about 45 minutes. Let the cakes cool completely in the pans on a wire rack. When the cakes are cool, turn them out by inverting the pans, and then turn the cakes upright. Using a serrated knife, slice off the domed portion from the top of each cake to make the tops flat. If you want to decorate the cake with crumbs as described in the headnote, reserve the slices for making the crumbs. To make the crumbs, preheat the oven to 250 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a nonstick liner. Break up the cake slices and spread on the lined baking sheet. Place in the oven and toast until completely dry, about 1 hour. Let cool completely, then transfer to a food processor or blender and process until finely ground. Sift the crumbs through a medium-mesh sieve. (Don’t use a sieve with fine mesh or the crumbs won’t pass through.) Set aside. To make the ganache, place the chocolate in a heatproof bowl, using the smaller amount of each ingredient if you will be decorating the cake with crumbs and the larger amount if you will not. Bring the cream to just under a boil in a small saucepan. Pour the cream over the chocolate. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes without stirring until the chocolate is partially melted, and then stir with a rubber spatula until smooth and shiny. To assemble the cake, split each cake into 2 layers to make 4 layers in all. Transfer 1 layer to a serving plate. Using an offset spatula, spread 3 tablespoons of the caramel evenly over the cake layer. Spread a thin layer of ganache (about 1⁄4inch thick) over the caramel. Top with a second cake layer, and again spread with 3 tablespoons caramel and then a thin layer of ganache. Top with the fourth cake layer. Refrigerate the cake until the center seems firm, 1 to 2 hours. Cover the remaining ganache with plastic wrap and

leave at room temperature for finishing the cake. Remove the cake from the refrigerator. Using the rest of the ganache, frost the top and sides of the cake with the offset spatula. If you are going to coat the cake with the toasted cake crumbs, the cake must be evenly frosted and the ganache must be soft enough for the crumbs to adhere. If the ganache has hardened, use a kitchen torch to soften it slightly, or put the whole cake into a 400 F oven for 10 seconds or so, just until the chocolate looks shiny. Sprinkle the crumbs evenly over the top of the cake, then tilt and turn the cake so that they spill over the sides, adhering to them as they fall. If you are using only the ganache and not the crumbs, the ganache will be thicker on both the top and sides. Serve the cake at room temperature. To store, cover tightly and keep in a cool place for up to 4 days. It is not necessary to keep this cake in the refrigerator.

Chocolate Soufflé Perfect for Valentine’s Day Anything goes when buying Valentine’s Day treats for one’s sweetheart. But if one unofficial rule governs the giving of treats on Valentine’s Day, it’s that chocolate should be involved. Men and women who want to surprise their significant others with a homemade chocolate treat this Valentine’s Day can try the following recipe for “Chilled Chocolate Soufflé with Lots of Ginger” courtesy of Lori Longbotham’s Luscious Creamy Desserts (Chronicle Books).

Chilled Chocolate Soufflé with Lots of Ginger

Serves 4 to 6 1⁄2 cup water 1 and 1⁄4 ounces plain gelatin 1 pound bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, chopped 1⁄2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into small pieces 1⁄4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 2 tablespoons brandy

6 large eggs, separated 3⁄4 cup sugar Pinch of salt 3 large egg whites 1⁄2 cup finely chopped crystallized ginger 1⁄2 cup heavy (whipping) cream 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract Wrap a long, folded strip of heavy-duty aluminum foil or parchment paper around a 5-cup soufflé dish to form a collar that extends about 3 inches above the rim of the dish, and secure it with tape or string. Lightly oil the dish and the inside of the foil. Refrigerate the dish until ready to use. Pour 1⁄4 cup of the water into a small bowl and sprinkle with the gelatin. Let stand for 10 minutes, or until softened. Place the bowl with the gelatin in a larger bowl of hot water and stir until the gelatin has dissolved and the liquid is clear. Melt the chocolate and butter with the cocoa in a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of about 1 and 1⁄2 inches of barely simmering water, whisking occasionally until smooth. Remove the bowl from the saucepan and whisk in the remaining 1⁄4 cup water and the brandy. With a handheld electric mixer on medium-high speed, beat the egg yolks, 1⁄2 cup of the sugar, and the salt in a large, deep heatproof bowl until well combined. Set the bowl over the saucepan of barely simmering water and beat for 15 minutes, or until the mixture is very thick and pale. Beat in the chocolate mixture just until combined. Remove the bowl from the heat, add the gelatin mixture, and beat until the mixture cools to room temperature. With clean beaters, on medium speed, beat the egg whites in a large, deep clean bowl until the whites form soft peaks when the beaters are lifted. Increase the heat to medium-high and sprinkle in the remaining 1⁄4 cup sugar about 1 tablespoon at a time, beating well after each addition, then beat until the whites form stiff peaks. Beat in the ginger. With clean beaters, beat the heavy cream and vanilla on high speed in a medium bowl just until the cream forms stiff peaks. Place the bowl of egg yolk mixture in a larger bowl of ice water and whisk just until it begins to thicken and set. With a whisk, gently fold in the whipped cream, and then the egg whites. Pour into the soufflé dish and smooth the top with a rubber spatula. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, until thoroughly chilled and set, for up to 24 hours. To serve, remove the collar from the soufflé. Present the soufflé at the table, and spoon onto the dessert plates. voicemagazineforwomen.com | February 2018 | 11

Happy Valentine’s Day to My Home {My Other Valentine}

By Martha McGlothlin

'm in love with my home. Yes, I have an actual Valentine, and I have four children who are my loves, but my home also holds my heart. It's my hope that everyone could find a true love like this: • We love spending time together. There's no place else I'd rather be than inside my home's four walls with the ones I love. • My home holds everyone and everything I love under one roof. (Disclaimer: My parents don't live here, but I love them just as much.) • I've made mistakes with my home; too many to count. I've painted the wrong color; I've chosen the wrong chair; I've hosted the wrong parties, but still my house forgives and lets me continue to pull and tug at her windows and floors. • We've seen our share of therapy and made it through the tough times: plumbers for clogged toilets, roofers for loose shingles, glass repairmen, heating and air specialists, and sinkhole fixers (to name but a few). • We've shared all four seasons together...summer running through the sprinklers with the kids, carving pumpkins on the counter in the fall, hanging stockings on the mantel at Christmas, and coloring eggs at the first sign of spring. • I may try to change my home from time to time (I know what's best, right?), but she loves me anyway despite my constant nagging and second-guessing. • Sometimes we watch some racy stuff together after the kids go to bed. Mostly HGTV shows like Fixer Upper and

Beachfront Bargain Hunt. There's no jealousy involved; we're just gathering ideas to try out on our own. • My home doesn't seem to mind if we are hard on her. A height chart drawn right on the door casing? Done. Spray paint on the front of the house? No problem. That's unconditional love right there. There have been a few (thankfully not many) sad days at our house...mostly just fighting between siblings (sister runs around pinching brothers because she hates loves them so much). Oh and the long nights of strep throat or tummy aches, how could I forget? Those things only make us closer. • My home brings out the best in me. The best colors, patterns, and fun sides all wrapped into one. • We've had fun together, from dinners with friends to birthday celebrations to sleepovers to the usual nights of homework and Disney Channel. • My home keeps us safe and warm and shielded from the daily grind of the universe. She's got arms long enough to wave lovingly goodbye in the mornings, welcome us back in the afternoons, & hold us tight all night long. • I plan on growing old right along with my home. We'll just have to overlook each others' wrinkles/cracks in drywall and gray hair/faded paint. • We've created a family and memories together that will last a lifetime. And we've got the scrapbooks and photo albums to prove it. Thanks, home, for being you! I wouldn't trade my Valentine for anything. Your home can be your Valentine too. All that's required is love inside. And remember: don't ever, ever go to bed mad! Even if we have to be separated someday, we will carry her with us wherever we go (after all, home is where the heart is).

{

Martha McGlothlin owns House Dressing, an upscale consignment boutique in Bristol, Virginia. She also writes a blog at www.marthajane.net

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12 | February 2018 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

DIY Gifts That Won’t Break the Bank By Savannah Bailey

alentine’s day can be a hard holiday to select gifts for. Many people are still recovering from the money spent buying Christmas presents, and dishing out more cash for a special V-Day gift might not be in the cards. However, the pressure to give a gift is likely still on your mind. So, consider that homemade gifts are not just for children. A homemade gift can mean more to your partner than anything you might buy them in a store, and in most cases, can cut your spending in half or more. If you’re stumped about where to begin on a homemade gift, here are a few options for you to consider.

Stud Muffin: Pick up your partner’s favorite muffin

mix or make them muffins from scratch. Enhance the presentation by using Valentine’s themed muffin wrappers and attractive packaging such as a pretty box or decorative plastic wrap. Add a card addressed to your “Stud Muffin.”

Hand Warmers: Warm your partners heart and hands

by sewing some homemade hand warmers. These can be made in the shape of hearts with most types of fabric or felt. Lay your two pieces of fabric on top of each other and sew the sides and bottom together, leaving a hole at the top. Fill your creation with white rice, but not so much that there isn’t room for the rice to move around. Finally, sew the top closed. To make this gift more personal, use a shirt or jeans from your partner that are too “loved” to be worn anymore; cut out the pockets to use as hand warmers instead!

52 Things I love About You: Get a deck of cards and

a few colorful sharpies, and write one thing that you love about your partner on each card. You can spice up this gift further by buying specialty cards, gluing craft paper to the back or face of the card to write on, or by putting the cards in a hard, decorative box rather than their original package.

Love Tickets: Create tickets for your partner to use at

home! Examples of things to include are a movie night where the movie choice is completely up to them, a night out at their favorite restaurant, or a weekend free of any household chores. Get creative with your presentation by using craft paper, printing the tickets out on a cool template, or even writing each one on the back of a series of photos or postcards. Tailor your tickets to the things you know your partner wants, but doesn’t get all that often.

A Movie and Dinner for Valentine’s Day Many people feel the best way to celebrate Valentine’s Day is to enjoy an evening at home with the one they love. A quiet dinner followed by a romantic movie can make for a relaxing, memorable Valentine’s Day. The following are just some of the films dubbed “the most romantic movies” by sources such as AMC, TimeOut magazine, Rotten Tomatoes, and Flavorwire.

Beauty and the Beast (1991) Casablanca (1943) Gone With the Wind (1939) The Notebook (2004) Once (2007) The Princess Bride (1987) Roman Holiday (1953) Say Anything (1989) Sense and Sensibility (1995) When Harry Met Sally (1989)

voicemagazineforwomen.com | February 2018 | 13

Article and Photographs by Nancy Binder

ast fall I enrolled in a Road Scholar program, “The People of the Mekong: Vietnam, Cambodia, and Angkor Wat” (www.roadscholar.org). The program and tour began in Hanoi on the Red River with a small group of ten participants. Hanoi has a population of over 7 million people. Our introduction to Hanoi started with a cooking class at Anh Tuyet’s Restaurant, featured on an Anthony Bourdain program. It wasn’t only a cooking class; the daughter of the owner met us at a local market and we shopped with her as she picked out the ingredients we needed. She explained the herbs that she was purchasing, the different varieties of noodles, the different fishes, and cuts of pork. We walked to the restaurant Cyclo and had great adventures making spring rolls with rice paper (mine looked like stuffed mini burritos), chopping up vegetables about scary! The only thing more frightening is trying to into tiny pieces, tearing, not chopping, herbs (except cilantro, cross a street on foot. There seems to be no rules as to the which we chopped). We placed use of traffic lanes. In fact, there appear to our ingredients into numbe no lanes. If traffic is congested on your bered bowls and the kitchen side of the road, you just use the oncoming staff cooked them. The lunch lanes and if everything is congested and you was delicious, nutritious and are on a motorbike, you use the sidewalk! We mostly non-fat. I will mention were told that as we step out into traffic we here that almost all of our should just keep proceeding and “show no meals were five courses; small fear.” Yikes! In one of the cities we visited, portions, low-fat, low meat, I never did cross the street as traffic was just low carbs (except for rice) and too heavy and fast. almost sugar free. Who loses In our cyclos we toured the Old Quarter, Pork vendor two pounds on a trip eating which consists of 36 streets, each one used to five course meals? Me! The be dedicated to a specific craft. Today they cooking class was a great way aren’t quite dedicated but still pretty close, on to introduce us to the country. Wood Street are stores selling bamboo poles Our next introduction for building and wood doors, jewelry stores to Vietnam was a ride in a are on another street, clothing on another, cyclo, which looks like an etc. During a lecture by a historian, who had over sized wheelchair with a written a number of books on Vietnam, we fabric roof and a man pedalheard a thumbnail version of their history ing behind it. We went right from 7th century BC to present and their out into traffic with the constant threat from their neighbors to the thousands of motorbikes, north, China. Discord seems to be a way of cars, trucks, and buses. Talk Spring rolls in restaurant continued on next page

14 | February 2018 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Water puppeteers

Bahnar ethnic group's burial building

life between the north and the south. As we were to see, south Vietnam appears to be more progressive than the north. The historian attributes Vietnam’s slow approach to modernization to “small thinking.” The rural countryside has small plots of land that are worked mostly by water buffalo, the farmer, and his family; small land, small thinking, was the historian's theory! We were entertained one evening at a water puppet show. The puppeteers stand in almost waist-deep water and manipulate boards under the water which operate the puppets. They are quite skilled. Water puppet shows put on by local people are very popular in rural villages. I found it entertaining and unusual. Ba Dinh Square is the site of Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum (pictured below) and also their National Congress. Ho Chi Minh’s body was not on display when I visited in late October, which is the time of year that his body is re-embalmed. The modest stilt house where he lived is in the Square and is preserved as it was when he lived there. The One Pillar Pagoda is also there where you can pray for fertility or longevity.

After a city tour, we visited the Ethnology Museum where there are examples of buildings from some of the 54 ethnic groups that inhabit Vietnam. I was fascinated by the Bahnar ethnic group’s burial building, where woodcarved statutes depicting people’s lives decorate the outside of the building. One day we had part of an afternoon free, so I walked to the Hoa Lo Prison, now a museum, which housed American prisoners of war. The prisoners called it the “Hanoi Hilton” but it certainly was anything but a nice place. The Vietnamese version of how the prisoners were treated differs 180 degrees from what was reported by Senator John McCain and others. The tour of the prison was one of several places visited on this trip that produced great sadness in me of how inhumane people can be. During the trip we saw very few other Americans. We felt welcomed by the local people that we met and most of the younger people spoke English.

{

Nancy Binder is a retired application software developer turned freelance writer combining her love of travel with her desire to share her experiences. She is passionate about exploring the outdoors and has been “bitten by the African safari bug,” now her favorite travel destination. Contact her with comments or travel questions at nancybinder@msn.com.

voicemagazineforwomen.com | February 2018 | 15

“every story needs a book”

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Pierre the Peacock

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Come with us as we meet Pierre, a peacock who thinks that he will get friends just from his pretty looks. When he meets Jerry, a colorblind little boy, he teaches Pierre that what matters is how you treat people, not what you look like. A lesson for all of us!

rom across the ocean to the Carolina Mountains comes a boy and his faithful yellow dog. Set in Colonial frontier times John is no stranger to adversity. Join John in a tangled web of lies and deceit, as he fights to survive while seeking his destiny. As John’s adventure unfolds, see him struggle with his own inner demon, fight in the Battle of King’s Mountain, and discover his connection to the mystical Shadow Dogs. John’s story is one of both joy and heartbreak that you’ll never want to end.

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Rainbow Bridge

Written by Rita Rumgay

The Truth Be Told

Gem is mourning her grandmotherFiction and baby boy, losing one to cancer and the baby by theAhands of her abusive husband. She was raised by her grandmother when her hippie mother abandoned her, she never knew her father. Her only desire is to love and be loved. Her best friend, Carolyn from high school, has comforted her through these tragedies. As well as her deceased grandmother, whom Gem feels is still with her, making her laugh, and still teaching her. Gem struggles to begin her life, again. Rita Rumgay Landing a new job, she bonds with a special needs child. After a terrorist attack occurs, she loses another chance at happiness. Bent but not broken, she recovers to discover a genuine love and enough strength within herself to endure. As long kept secrets of the grandmother are revealed, Gem finds her place, and a family. Her past and her future become reconciled, in heaven and on earth.

Written by E. Louise Jaques

n ordinary woman discovers she has an extraordinary ability when she awakens from a coma—she’s able to make people tell the truth. When Amelia Jones recovers from a paddleboard accident on Amelia Island, Florida, she soon realizes that when she says the words ‘the truth be told,’ others are compelled to speak honestly. As she deals with the profound intellectual, emotional, and spiritual impact of the 45th Presidency, she continues her soul-searching about the nature of ‘truth’ in an alternative-facts society. Amelia faces new challenges when videos showing her abilities are posted on social media. She is inundated with requests for help from strangers, local police departments, and the FBI. She becomes involved with several high-profile cases, including a deadly plot against the Vice President, and a conspiracy by the KNC, a fanatical right-wing group planning the assassination of key political figures. While in Washington, DC, Amelia’s entanglement with the KNC leads to a life-threatening situation.

Rita Rumgay

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PEGGY MCLAIN

Jocelyn Mooneyhan Lacey was inspired to write about a peacock after one showed up at her back door. A native of Johnson City, TN, and after moves up and down the east coast, she now lives in New Jersey for the time being, with her husband, two dogs, a cat, and three fish. You can find her on Instagram at Hapigirl10.

other, Gem struggles with vor of domestic violence,

—Martha Orlando

Author, A Trip, a Tryst and a Terror, Children in the Garden, The Moment of Truth, Revenge!, Redemption, Revelation

From across the ocean to the Carolina Mountains comes a boy and his faithful yellow dog. Set in Colonial frontier times John is no stranger to adversity. Join John in a F tangled web of lies and deceit, as he fights to survive while seeking his destiny. As John’s adventure unfolds, see him struggle with his own inner demon, fight in the Battle of King’s Mountain, and discover his connection to the mystical Shadow Dogs. John’s story is one of both joy and heartbreak that you’ll never want to end. “For an enthralling glimpse into history, follow Johnny and Yellow Dog through the loss of father and friend, during a period of time when survival was the ultimate goal for all who were living. Peggy McLain spins an exciting tale that keeps all readers interested to the end of the story and then beyond as they wonder about what comes next.”

m the loss of a co-worker. mily, and newfound family wly-acquired assertiveness, w life.”

“Set in Colonial, South Carolina, The Shadow Dogs is historical fiction at its best. McLain’s engaging prose, believable characters, and the plot’s unexpected twists and turns pull you into an intriguing story you won’t want to put down.”

THE SHADOW DOGS

Written by Jocelyn M. Lacey Illustrated by Teresa Wilkerson

ew story, Rainbow Bridge Bridge. pie era, abandoned by her aces the grief of losing Ruby ntriguing drama unfolds ares a role in her future.”

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An ordinary woman discovers she has an extraordinary ability when she awakens from a coma—she’s able to make people tell the truth. When Amelia Jones recovers from a paddleboard accident on Amelia Island, Florida, she soon realizes that when she says the words ‘the truth be told,’ others are compelled to speak honestly. As she deals with the profound intellectual, emotional, and spiritual impact of the 45th Presidency, she continues her soulsearching about the nature of ‘truth’ in an alternativefacts society.

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Green, a cheery crayon known as

Deano the Dino Goes to the Doctor

The Crayon Rapper, uses rhyming patterns

The Crayon (W)Rapper

in a “rap” music beat to describe

Written by Charlotte S. Snead Illustrated by Teresa Wilkerson

the adventures of his multi-hued pals.

Written and illustrated by Cheryl Livingston

“What a delightful way for children to learn about the different colors— through a book about crayons and rhyme! Giving a crayon personal characteristics is creative and makes learning fun!” Co-Authors Wayne Major & Ralphine Major,

Green, a cheery crayon known as The Crayon Rapper, uses rhyming patterns in a “rap” music beat to describe the adventures of his multi-hued pals. The Adventures of Piddle Diddle, the Widdle Penguin

Charlotte S. Snead's goal is to take the fear out of going to the doctor. Deano can be brave, and so can the young readers.

Cheryl Livingston began toddler life holding a pink crayon in her chubby little fist. Many coloring books later, she now draws and paints, as well as creating stained glass art with her husband Richard. Cheryl also presents dramatic readings of Hidden, her retelling of the story of Esther. Email: Livingston.cheryl@yahoo.com Facebook.com/PRISMsStainedGlass

ts with evidence life.”

weet and sometimes memories. People have ts played a big role, too. ay, can have memories received.”

Ponderings

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er is a senior who is publishing eer has included school teacher, retary. She has two adult children loving cats have shared her life at nriched her days.

Written and Illustrated by

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Ponderings

Written by Gail Carpenter

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“every story needs a book”

To join the Book Club or for more information, Call 423.926.9983 or email office@jancarolpublishing.com Visa, Mastercard, Paypal, & checks accepted

Believe and Achieve Novel Award Believe and Achieve Novel Award

“everystory storyneeds needsa abook” book” “every

AUTHORS on on the the ROAD ROAD AUTHORS Victoria Fletcher Fletcher’s Fables and Fletcher’s Fables Too Saturday, February 10, 2018, 10 am – 3 pm, Honey Festival Richlands Police Complex Richlands, VA

Rose Klix God, My Greatest Love Saturday, February 10, 2018, 2 pm, Program presentation for Poetry Society of TN– NE branch Blountville Library

Rosie Hartwig-Benson Petals of Distinction Wednesday, February 28, 2018, 7 pm Speaking & Book Signing Mission Book Club Red Wing, MN Saturday, March 3, 2018, 10 am Speaking & Booking Signing Eden Valley Library Eden Valley, MN

Devious; Snooping Can Be Contagious; Snooping Can Be Dangerous; The Best Darn Secret; and anthologies Easter Lilies; Broken Petals; and These Haunted Hills

•

Saturday, February 3, 2018, 11 am – 5 pm, Book Signing, Piccadilly, Fort Henry Drive, Kingsport, TN (weather permitting)

Previous Winners

Wild Daisies

Thursday, February 8, 2018, 6 pm, Healthy Women Event, Bluefield State College, Bluefield, WV

Tuesday, February 13, 2018, 12:30 – 3:30, Board Meeting and Workshop, Appalachian Authors Guild, Small Business Incubator, on the VHCC Campus.

•

Watch JCP Author Elizabeth Buttke on Daytime Tri-Cities and hear more about her book, Deep in the Holler, on Tuesday, February 13 at 10 am on WJHL-TV.

• • •

We are now accepting submissions for Wild Daisies our are in-house anthology,submissions Wild Daisies. We now accepting for The theme for Wild is stories aboutWild strong Appalachian women who ourDaisies in-house anthology, Daisies. have to for “riseWild again” afterisfacing in their lives. There should The had theme Daisies storieschallenges about strong Appalachian women who be a strong sense of place, i.e., Appalachia. Stories must be fiction. have had to “rise again” after facing challenges in their lives. There should Submission fee perofstory $10.Appalachia. You may callStories the office be a strong sense place,is i.e., mustatbe423.926.9983 fiction. with a credit fee cardper number mailYou a check to JCP P.O.atBox 701, Johnson Submission story isor$10. may call the at office 423.926.9983 City, 37605. with TN, a credit card number or mail a check to JCP at P.O. Box 701, Johnson ACity, minimum of 1500 words and a maximum of 3500 words per story. TN, 37605. The deadline of for1500 submissions is March 31, 2018. A minimum words and a maximum of 3500 words per story.

•

The deadline for submissions is March 31, 2018.

Saturday, February 10, 10 am – 3 pm, Richlands Winter Honey Festival, Police Pavilion, Richlands, VA

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Pierre the Peacock Pierre by the Peacock

us as we meet Pierre, a peacock who thinks that he will get friends just retty looks. When he meets Jerry, a colorblind little boy, he teaches t what matters is how you treat people, not what you look like. A lesson s! Jocelyn Mooneyhan Lacey was inspired to write about a peacock after one showed up at her back door. A native of Johnson City, TN, and after moves up and down the east coast, she now lives in New Jersey for the time being, with her husband, two dogs, a cat, and three fish. You can find her on Instagram at Hapigirl10.

Written by

Jocelyn M. Lacey

Jocelyn M. byLacey Jocelyn M. Lacey

Ilustrated by

U.S. $10.00 CAN $12.50 JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC JANCAROLPUBLISHING.COM

For submission rules and details visit jancarolpublishing.com Previous Winners

Monday, February 5, 2018, 7 pm, Board Meeting, Tazewell County Habitat for Humanity, Tazewell, VA

Linda Hudson Hoagland Snooping Can Be Uncomfortable; Snooping Can Be Helpful –Sometimes; Onward & Upward; Missing Sammy; Snooping Can Be Doggone Deadly; Snooping Can Be

• • • • • • •

Are you an aspiring writer, trying to break into the market? This could be your big chance! Jan-Carol hosting the Are you an aspiring writer, trying toPublishing, break intoInc. the is market? 2018 Believe and Achieve Novel Award. This could be your big chance! Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc. is hosting the One novel will be selected to and receive a publishing contract. 2018 Believe Achieve Novel Award. The is February 28, 2018. Oneentry noveldeadline will be selected to receive a publishing contract. Entry requires a $20isreading The entry deadline Januaryfee. 31, 2018. For submission rules and details visit jancarolpublishing.com Entry requires a $20 reading fee.

Written by Teresa Wilkerson

Jocelyn M. Lacey Ilustrated by

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voicemagazineforwomen.com | February 2018 | 17 voicemagazineforwomen.com | January 2018 | 17

Voicemail Voicemail Male By ByKen Ken Heath Heath

ebruary. I’m so glad it's a short month! Winter always seems to get me down a bit. Oh, I love the change of the seasons. But once Christmas has come and gone, a good January snow or two to lazing away with an old movie or a good book beside the fireplace, and I'm ready for Spring. The bouts of warmer weather, where fifty degrees has us pulling out our Bermuda shorts after a sub-Arctic blast, only make it worse when I realize we're still weeks away from dogwood blossoms and forsythia blooms. The seed catalogs start coming in, store shelves start replacing Valentine's candy with mulch and fertilizer and garden

tools. It's a reminder that better things are coming—but it also points out just how impatient I am. As I take my trips around the sun each year, I suppose I'd be better served realizing that it takes time to smell the roses—in fact, it takes time before we can even plant them! But foolishly, I'm more expectant than a kid waiting on Santa Claus as I wait for the first hints of Spring Fever. Maybe it's the surprisingly cold winter we've had, or the overall nastiness of the news cycles, but no matter—I'm so looking forward to better days ahead. And the one guarantee—tomorrow will bring another 86,400 seconds for us to spend as best we choose. For me, this February, I'm looking forward to moving past, blowing through the windy days of March, for the next act in my lifetime play. I think we're all suffering a bit of the wintertime blues. But, no matter the weather, it's really all up to us as we figure out how we're going to face these next few pages on the calendar. Perhaps June Carter Cash said it best: "There's a dark and a troubled side of life There's a bright and a sunny side too But if you meet with the darkness and strife The sunny side we also may view Keep on the sunny side, always on the sunny side Keep on the sunny side of life It will help us every day, it will brighten all the way If we keep on the sunny side of life." The sunny side is right around the corner. I, for one, can't wait!

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Ken Heath is a Marion, VA hometown boy who expresses his passions in his writings and through music. After his “real job,” Ken is the owner of the legendary Cliffside Roadhouse, doggie dad to Miss Reagan Dixie with his wonderful wife, and a professional mobile DJ with Bow Tie Pro Music and Sound. Follow him on Facebook and on Twitter at #kenheath.

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Women – Have a Good Heart!

Heart disease may be something most commonly associated with men, but it can be deadly for women as well. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease is to blame for one in every four female deaths in the United States.

them for the serious threat they are and do their best to manage them. High blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol can increase a woman’s risk for heart disease. Take medications as directed, monitor blood sugar levels if you have diabetes, and routinely have your blood pressure and cholesterol tested to ensure any preexisting conditions are not increasing your risk for heart disease.

1. Consume a heart-friendly diet.

When examining labels, look for foods that are low in sodium and sugar. When planning meals, avoid foods that are high in trans fats. In 2015, the FDA ruled that trans fats were not recognized as safe for use in human foods and gave manufacturers three years to remove them from their products. The Cleveland Clinic advises consumers to check labels for “partially hydrogenated oils,” which are a hidden source of trans fats. In addition, the Cleveland Clinic notes that foods such as cakes, pies, cookies, biscuits, microwavable breakfast sandwiches, and many types of crackers contain trans fats. 2. Take existing conditions seriously.

Certain conditions can increase a woman’s risk for heart disease. While women may not be able to turn back the clocks and prevent these conditions from developing, they can take

3. Discuss aspirin intake.

The FDA notes that many physicians prescribe aspirin to lower patients’ risk of heart disease, clot-related strokes, and other problems related to cardiovascular disease. However, there are risks associated with long-term aspirin use, and such risks should be discussed with a physician. According to the FDA, bleeding in the stomach, bleeding in the brain, kidney failure, and certain types of stroke are some of the potential side effects of long-term aspirin use. Such side effects may never appear, but the risk that they might makes discussing the pros and cons of aspirin well worth it.

National Wear Red Day® Friday, February 2, 2018

Support Go Red For Women by participating in National Wear Red Day® on Friday, February 2, 2018 and donate to help fund research during American Heart Month.

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Letâ€™s Face It! The top five skin concerns across the United States include aging, uneven skin tone, sensitive skin, dark circles, and sun damage. What is the right treatment for you?

Microdermabrasion: In microdermabrasion, layers of dead skin are buffed. This dead skin may have accumulated due to age and sun exposure. Many spas employ a device that scours the skin using micronized aluminum oxide crystals. Similar at-home products use motorized spinning brushes that employ bristles to slough off skin cells. Lymphatic massage: Many facial treatments also include some massage. With lymphatic massage, particular pressure points are targeted to release strain from tension headaches and may even reduce skin puffiness. Massaging the skin can promote blood flow and lead to a rosier, more youthful glow.

Traditional facial: A traditional facial typically begins with a cleansing of the face using steam to open up pores. This lets impurities clear out. Depending on an individualâ€™s skin type or concerns, a mild scrub may be used to exfoliate dead skin cells, dirt, and oils. A hydrating mask or lotion will be applied to soothe skin after treatment. Chemical or fruit acid peel: Chemical and fruit acid peels rely on various acids to exfoliate and peel off the outer layer of skin. The skin beneath is usually more smooth and less wrinkled. Some deep peels target the middle layer of skin to remove damaged skin cells. The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery says that peels can be used to treat anything from acne to aging skin to scars. Alpha-hydroxy acid and lactic acid may be used in mild peels. Trichloroacetic acid, or phenol, is used for more potent chemical peels. Peels are best left to an aesthetician or dermatologist. Facial mask: Masks may contain many different ingredients designed to treat various skin problems. A paraffin mask, for example, involves the process of applying molten warm wax over a thin mask. The wax will open pores and moisturize the skin. Masks are applied, and then there is a waiting period, during which the mask dries or penetrates. Then the treatment will be removed.

Cosmetic fillers: Inject-able, dermal fillers can soften facial creases, remove wrinkles, and improve the appearance of scars, says the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. These procedures are best left to professionals. Skincare treatments can be an ideal Valentinesâ€™ Day gift for someone special.

You need your skin. Treat it well.

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Smile Bright! DID YOU KNOW?

WAITING Voice Magazine recognizes the

Reader of the Month 22 | February 2018 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

our teeth have pores just like your skin or a sponge. They absorb. Anything you put in your mouth that has color will absorb into those pores. Wine, coffee, dark berries, and smoking are extremely active in staining teeth. Over time, the natural color of your teeth becomes darker due to these stains. These stains will never go away unless you actively remove them. Properly formulated teeth whitening gel works by absorbing into your teeth and gently pushing stains out through the pores. Citrus fruits teeth are highly acidic. They can wear down the hard outer whitening/dentist covering of your teeth, called enamel. That makes your teeth more vularticle? nerable to decay. This doesn't mean you have to skip your morning OJ, though. Just make sure to brush afterward. Ideally you should wait 30 minutes after eating or drinking to brush. And limit acidic drinks, such as coffee or lemonade, for the rest of the day. If you have a sugary drink, drink it quickly instead of sipping it all afternoon—and brush afterward, if you can. Teeth whitening does not damage your teeth. Just like aggressive brushing of your teeth, abuse of any kind can be damaging. However, if used as instructed, professional teeth whitening is incredibly safe. The whitening process uses active ingredients to temporarily open pores in your teeth and lift stains. After each whitening session, your teeth naturally re-mineralize and rehydrate. Sensitivity after teeth whitening is normal. More than 60% of Americans have naturally sensitive teeth. This is most often caused by genetics, thin enamel, or cracked/damaged teeth. During the whitening process, it is completely normal for sensitivity to occur. The teeth become temporarily dehydrated, which reduces their ability to insulate the nerve from changes in temperature. Sensitivity will disappear 12-36 hours after whitening. Dentists and hygienists recommend a post-whitening fluoride treatment to nourish the teeth and promote rehydration. Stains on teeth cannot be removed overnight. No product on the market can whiten in a few minutes or a day. Chemically, it is impossible for any whitening agent to safely penetrate deep enough into the teeth at that speed. Whitening process can take as few as 4 days and up to several months. Customers with severe stains must be patient with the process and know that each whitening session removes years of stains. Once those stains are gone, it is incredibly easy to maintain.

Serita Marlin

Works: Humphries, Odum & Eubanks, Attorneys • Lives: Benton, Arkansas The beauty product I can't live without is: moisturizer. The last book I read was: “Finders Keepers” by Stephen King, book #2 in the Mr. Mercedes trilogy. My ideal meal is: a steak cooked by my husband and a baked potato.

If I could travel anywhere in the world, it would be: Basque, because that is part of my ethnicity. I can't leave home without: a glass of ice water. If you are interested in being our Reader of the Month, email tara@voicemagazineforwomen.com for details.

The goal of Sudoku is to fill a 9×9 grid with numbers so that each row, column and 3×3 section contain all of the digits between 1 and 9.

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ACROSS

1. Shaded inner regions 7. Overlapping part of a garment 13. Type of smartphone 14. Fall apart 16. Football’s big game (abbr.) 17. Crocodilian reptile 19. Of I 20. Swamp plant 22. Sun can help you get one 23. Hops, __ and jumps 25. Cuckoos 26. Small cavities in rocks 28. American traitor 29. Tooth caregiver 30. Popular fish 31. Ottoman military leader 33. Anger 34. Fish of the mackerel family 36. Some people can’t eat it 38. Amer. Revolutionary War battle 40. Misleading ads 41. Atomic number 76 43. A type of castle security 44. Sunscreen rating 45. Very fast airplane 47. Vigor 48. 007’s creator 51. __ and that 53. Indicating silence 55. Brown and gray rail 56. Nocturnal insects 58. Make an incision 59. Norwegian village 60. Commercial 61. Criminal 64. Northeast 65. Clouds of gas and dust in outer space 67. Mysterious things 69. One who won’t be forgotten 70. Starts over

DOWN

1. Straighten 2. Gives medical advice (abbr.) 3. Touts 4. One’s job 5. Afflict in mind or body 6. Proofed 7. Capital of Angola 8. Social insect living in organized colonies 9. Ones who are financially compensated 10. Jacket 11. Electron volt 12. Tuned 13. Syrian leader 15. Reduces 18. Congress’ investigative arm 21. Make uneasy 24. A fake 26. Any thick messy substance 27. Goad 30. Titan 32. Continental Congress delegate for NY 35. Peyton’s younger brother 37. Fiddler crab 38. Delivers the mail 39. Liliaceous plant 42. Mountain Time 43. Where wrestlers work 46. Secured 47. Dog breed 49. Where rockers perform 50. Nostrils 52. Express doubt 54. Pointer 55. Slang for sergeant 57. Selling at specially reduced prices 59. Six (Spanish) 62. Holds nonperishables 63. Between northeast and east 66. Exist 68. Meitnerium

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Transformed to Thrive

™

Nurturing Your Heart — B.E.L.I.E.V.E By Julia Parsell

iving well is a response. A response to life that is natural, easy, and perfect for YOU. It’s not a choice to perform based on another’s ideas of what is best for you, but a response to an inner knowing. A “what” that will serve you, to be your best in mind, body, and spirit. Experiencing wholeness sets your life at ease. A knowing that guides you in movement, sustenance, thought, speech, in complete being, so that you thrive. For so long we have sought solutions outside ourselves instead of knowing our self and our innate ability to respond to what is the best. As you become enlivened to the truth of your unique person, your heart, you can experience true liberation — a freedom that allows you to thrive. Self care is of the utmost importance and the most beneficial ingredient. Find your truth and live it. It is an expression of faith, a following of your heart and sensitivities, and embracing truth to develop your inner listening skills and then experience miraculous transformations.

Remember: There is nothing, no thing outside of any of us that offers healing, wholeness, or peace. It lies within us, the key is the ability to unfold our tightly protected or conditioned heart so it can relate, and pour forth its blessings on our life. Your heart can be sensitive and fiercely strong at the same time. It embodies the presence of both feminine and masculine energies. When your heart is balanced and open, it offers the truest form of blessing on your life as possible. It is the miracle you seek. It is the peace that passes all understanding. Nurturing, trusting, developing your heart is the most important task to go about in your daily life, it is the key to thriving. The transformation in physical life is evidence of this truth. This is not a place of judging yourself for unfulfilled desires or negative qualities. It is a place to begin to love yourself unconditionally in spite of shortcomings and disappointments. When you can believe this in your heart, then you can experience a change in behavior: B.E.L.I.E.V.E Behaving Everyday Like I'm Eternal, Valuable, Entitled. Please grab your copy of Voice/Modern Day Appalachian Woman for next month’s installment. An expose on balancing masculine and feminine energies within.

{

Julia Parsell is a Certified Holistic Health Counselor with an emphasis on the intersection of science and the sacred. She also goes by these names: wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, niece, cousin, and friend. You may have met her when she owned Java J’s in Bristol and Abingdon (2000–2012). Visit her website–juliaparsell.com.

Coal Country

Opening Reception: February 1, 2018 from 6 – 8 p.m. February 1 – August 12, 2018 Price-Strongwell Cultural Heritage Galleries Many towns in the southern Appalachian region were built on the back of coal. Generations of miners tunneled their way into the mountainsides of Appalachia, digging ever deeper in search of those rich seams of shining black running through the rock. Wherever those deposits were found, communities sprang up around them, built by the companies that owned the mines. These company towns, or coal camps, were entirely self-sufficient, complete with company houses, company stores, hospitals, churches, dance halls, even marching bands and baseball teams. Coal Country examines the rich history and culture of coal in Southwest Virginia through the stories of the coal companies, the mines and towns they built, and the people who called those towns home. voicemagazineforwomen.com | February 2018 | 25

Succulents By April Hensley

ucculents are amazing, ornamental plants that withstand dry conditions by storing water in their stems, roots, stalks, and leaves. Here in zone 7, most succulents must be houseplants because of our harsh winters. This means the plants don’t need to be watered as much. They are perfect plants for indoor gardeners that love the beauty without a lot of maintenance. They come in many attractive sizes, shapes, and colors. Popular indoor succulents are jade, aloe, and burro’s tale. Some hardy succulents for outdoors in zone 7 are hens and chicks, agave, and yucca. My first succulent was given to me as a gift by a future in-law. It was a beautiful jade tree, about 6 inches tall, in a decorative pot with no drainage holes. I’d never owned a succulent, so had no idea what I was doing. The dirt felt very dry so I watered it heavily. In a couple of days the leaves began to turn soft and yellow. So I soaked it again. It was only a few days before the plant fell over dead. It had rotted from too much attention. The most important point of care for succulents is water. They need it like all plants but prefer to be dry and not doused often. Since succulents store the fluid, they are drought tolerant. They prefer the ground to dry out between watering. Start out moistening the plant once to twice per month depending on your temperature and humidity. You can always add more if the plant needs it. Though succulents are a drought tolerant plant, they cannot withstand direct very hot sunlight. Six to eight hours a day of early morning sunlight from an east facing window is ideal, but any indirect sunshine will work fine too. If the plant is not getting enough sunlight or it has to pull towards light, it will become stringy and leggy. 26 | February 2018 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Another important thing is to make sure the pots you use have holes in the bottom for drainage. Standing water can rot the roots of any plant and succulents are especially susceptible to this problem. Usually the liquid will flow straight through the pot, so watering over a sink will be helpful. The type of dirt used for potting succulents is essential for the health of the plant. Well drained soil is a must. Most people opt for a prepackaged bag of succulent and cactus soil.

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Remove from oven, remove the dishes from the water, and cool for 15 minutes. Place the brûlée in the refrigerator and refrigerate for 2–8 hours (may keep longer). Spoon the remaining 3 Tbsp sugar on top of brûlée, and using a brûlée torch, melt the sugar. Serve immediately. Top with raspberry or mini-chocolate chips.

Amaretto Cherry Brownie Bites

By Tracy Fletcher McGlothlin

Creme Brûlée

Sweet Treats

6 Egg Yolks 7 Tbsp White Sugar 2 Tbsp Vanilla Extract 2 1/2 cups Heavy Whipping Cream Preheat oven to 300. Beat egg yolks, 5 Tbsp sugar, and vanilla in a mixing bowl for 5–8 minutes or until thick and creamy. Heat whipping cream on the stove until it almost comes to a boil. Slowly add whipping cream to egg yolk mixture and mix together. Place the mixture back on the stove and heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring constantly. Place 6 ramekin dishes in a baking pan of water. Water should be about 1/3 of the height of the ramekin dishes. Place batter in ramekin dishes and bake for 30 minutes.

Valentines Dinner for Two

2- 16 oz jars Maraschino Cherries Amaretto 1 box Brownie Mix Ingredients for Brownie Mix 3/4 cup Chocolate Frosting 12 oz Dark Chocolate Chips 2 Tbsp Parafin Wax Remove cherries from jar and drain all juice. Rinse cherries. Place cherries back in jar and fill jar with amaretto until cherries are covered. Refrigerate at least 3 days ahead of time. Bake the brownies as directed on the box and let cool. Crumble the brownies in a large mixing bowl and add 3/4 cup frosting. Form brownie mixture into small balls and punch a hole in the brownie ball. Place an amaretto cherry in the middle and seal the cherry into the middle of the brownie ball until the cherry is well covered with brownie. Place toothpicks in each ball and put the brownie balls in the freezer for 30 minutes. Melt chocolate chips over low heat and add wax. Dip brownie balls in chocolate and place on wax paper. Remove the toothpick, dip the toothpick into the chocolate mixture, and cover up the hole with chocolate. Let chocolate set for 30–40 minutes. Ready to serve!

Rack of Lamb Parmesan Asparagus Pimento Cheese Roasted Potatoes

minutes, and med-well bake 26 minutes. Remove lamb from oven and let rest for 3-4 minutes. Slice lamb into individual pieces and remove fat from bone. Plate lamb with bones intertwined on center of plate with asparagus on one side and potatoes on the other.

Rack of Lamb

Parmesan Asparagus

1 - Rack of Lamb Olive Oil 1/4 cup Panko Crumbs 1 Tbsp Garlic, minced 1 Tbsp Rosemary 1 tsp Salt 1/2 tsp Fresh Ground Tri-Color Pepper 1 tsp Dijon Mustard Preheat oven to 375. Wash Lamb and let dry. Prepare dry rub for lamb. Mix together Panko crumbs, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cover lamb in Olive Oil. Rub mustard on lamb. Pat dry rub onto lamb. Place in the center of rack in the oven. For rare- bake 20 minutes, med-rare bake 23

1 bundle Asparagus 1/4 cup Olive Oil 1 Tbsp Salt 1/2 Tbsp Fresh Ground Pepper 1/2 cup Shredded Parmesan Cheese Preheat oven to 375. Cut ends off of asparagus, wash, and let dry. Place asparagus in baking dish and coat well with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and parmesan cheese. Roll over in baking dish and sprinkle again with salt, pepper, and cheese. Bake for 10 minutes. Plate on one side of rack of lamb.

Pimento Cheese Roasted Potatoes 2 Russet Potatoes Olive Oil 1 Tbsp Kosher Salt 1 Tbsp Fresh Ground Pepper 3/4 cup Pimento Cheese Preheat oven to 375. Wash potatoes and set aside. Coat baking pan well with olive oil. Slice potatoes about 1/8” thick and place on baking pan. Drizzle olive oil on top and top with salt and pepper. Bake for 20 minutes or until potatoes are done. Remove potatoes from oven. On a serving dish, place 4 potato slices and spread a thin layer of cheese on top. Add second layer of potato slices and pimento cheese. Repeat. Use all potato slices and cheese (should be 4+ layers thick). Place on other side of rack of lamb. Follow Appalachian Living on the Farm with Tracy on Facebook for weekly recipes, cooking tips, and more! voicemagazineforwomen.com | February 2018 | 27

Renewed

Ladies! Like to Sing? If you like to sing, you’re invited to visit Hills Are Alive! Chorus.

By Kelly McFadden

“For if the blood of bulls and goats and the ashes of a heifer, sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies for the purifying of the flesh, how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?” Hebrews 9:13–14 NKJV Interpretation: “The blood of goats and bulls, and the ashes of a heifer sprinkled on those who are ceremonially unclean sanctify them so that they are outwardly clean. How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God!” Hebrews 9:13–14

bought a new jacket only to have the buttons pop off and a hole form in the side seam. Receipt in hand, I went in to exchange the jacket. The store offered to let me return it, but they no longer had my size to complete the exchange. Not wanting a different one, I walked out with my jacket, determined to fix it. Repairing the seams and securing the buttons later that evening, I couldn’t help but think of Christ’s sacrifice for people. He could have exchanged us when we sinned. He could have thrown out the broken models and started from scratch, creating obedient and sinless humans. Yet, instead of exchanging us or tossing us out, He loved us and died for us. He shed His blood so that we could be forgiven. He bore the sin of each person, so that we can have eternal life with Him and be made new. Through His death and resurrection, He provided the means to patch up our imperfections, renewing us, to make us pure and holy in His eyes. God will not give up on you. He will not exchange you or make hasty, short-term repairs. He will re-create you. Don’t be misled to think you can do it on your own. Bring your brokenness to the foot of the cross, confess your inability to cleanse yourself, and ask the Lord to forgive you. Only He can make you new. Source www.homeword.com

28 | February 2018 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Sitting in on one of our rehearsals is the perfect way to find out more about us, and what we can do for you! We are an acapella, 4-part harmony, barbershop-style women’s chorus. We rehearse in Bristol every Tuesday from 7–9 PM at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 672 Island Road, Bristol, Virginia (at Exit 1) For more information, contact: Martha Shaw 423-677-6333 or m2@wrzk.com or Dondra Warden 423-646-1533 or directinghaa@aol.com

Do you adore Modern Day Appalachian Woman? Love to read novels and short stories? Starting in March 2018 you can get your fill of both in one place! Look for the first chapter of our MDAW original, fictional story to be published serially each month! This story is a labor of love from each member of our MDAW staff, and we can’t wait to hear what our doting readers think! Catch the work exclusively in our MDAW magazine.

Did you know?

Broadening one’s horizons through crafting can be a worthwhile pursuit. Crafting can serve as a relaxing pastime and provide an opportunity to learn rewarding skills. Learning to crochet is one way for men and women to combine creativity and practicality. Crochet is a form of handwork using yarn and a crochet hook. According to the Crochet Guild of America, there’s no way to know just how old the art of crochet is. However, crochet expert Annie Potter has said the modern form of the art originated in the 16th century, primarily in France and England. Others surmise crocheting traces its origins to Arabia before it spread westward through various Mediterranean trade routes.

She said “Yes!” to the dress! By Pam Blair

f you enjoy watching TLC’s hit series “Say Yes to the Dress,” you might have wondered what it’s really like to go to Kleinfeld’s in New York City. I never dreamed I would go there, so when my niece asked me and my sister (mother of the bride) to travel to the big city and help her shop for a wedding dress, I jumped at the opportunity. Her wedding is not until December 2018, but it’s a good idea to start looking well before the date, plus we had the added benefit of enjoying the city when it was all dressed up for Christmas and the holidays. My niece booked her appointment on Kleinfeld’s website, and surprisingly, she didn’t have to book very far in advance. There’s even an option to apply to appear on the popular TV show, but she is far too understated for that kind of drama. Our appointment was on a Saturday morning, and our first glimpse of Kleinfeld’s was of the store’s holiday windows located by the front entrance. The distinctive windows are award-winning, and the much anticipated theme for this season was a bride waiting for her luggage at the airport baggage claim, playfully bringing along her groom and symbolically starting their new journey in life together. Since 1941, thousands of brides have traveled to New York City to find the dress of their dreams and we were eager to experience the magic of Kleinfeld’s 30,000 square feet, 28 dressing rooms, 17 fitting rooms, and 1500 designer sample dresses. A receptionist greeted us, and after we checked our coats, we sat on comfortable sofas and waited to meet our consultant. As if on cue, about a dozen consultants arrived in the lobby, each one ready to greet their clients. They were all dressed in stylish black clothing, and soon we met our consultant, a delightful young woman who guided us into the main salon that you see on TV. She talked to us for a few minutes, and then whisked my niece away to a dressing room. Brides were modeling dresses all around us in the salon, so we got to see many designs and styles. They were not filming “Say Yes to the Dress” on the day we were there, but we recognized some of the consultants who routinely appear on the show. Appointments on a Saturday are just under two hours, but it was soon evident that our consultant really listened to my niece’s preferences and she wasted no time with dresses not in the desired style. She clearly knew the inventory, which is amazing when you consider that Kleinfeld’s has the largest selection of wedding dresses in the world. Did our bride-to-be find her dress? There was a serious contender that we thought was ‘the one,’ but it turned out to be the first runner-up after our consultant produced one final dress that had arrived in the store the

day before. A veil and shoes were quickly produced to get the full effect, and we all realized something powerful had happened when my niece smiled hugely and happy tears began to flow. Our consultant stepped back and beamed, “Are you saying yes to the dress?” My niece grabbed our hands and the big moment was upon us. “Yes, I’m saying yes to the dress!” We all hugged and did a little happy dance for this unforgettable moment. Before going to Kleinfeld’s, we told ourselves we would chalk it up to a fun girls’ trip if the magic didn’t happen that day, but the dress she imagined was there, just waiting for her. Now we can all focus on the rest of the details that will make her wedding the most wonderful day of her life. If you decide to go: • DO book your appointment online and try to get the first appointment time for the day. It gets crazy busy later in the day and there might be more seating space available for your family and friends to gather around. • DO let your consultant know in advance about your preferred style and taste by creating a profile when you book your appointment online. Take pictures or descriptions of your preferred dress style with you to the appointment. This will maximize your time with the consultant and help to make your visit a positive experience. • DO have a budget and be fearless about sticking with it. It you decide to go over (or under!) budget, that’s fine too. The important thing is to find the look you were seeking, but not to sell the farm to achieve it. If you leave without finding your dress, look at it as an opportunity that helped you refine your vision. • DON’T take an army of family and friends with you. Remember that quality, not quantity is best when choosing a wedding dress. Too many opinions make for good television but can spoil the fun. • DO have fun! There’s really no pressure here. My niece had shopped in local bridal shops before our visit to Kleinfeld’s, and she basically knew what style she wanted. If she didn’t find it, there were other options available to her.

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Pam Blair is a writer who has authored and edited numerous publications, including LIFE IS PRECIOUS: LESSONS IN HEALTHY LIVING, SURVIVING CANCER, AND RECOVERING FROM GRIEF (Chapel Hill Press). She can be reached at pblair919@aol.com. voicemagazineforwomen.com | February 2018 | 29

APPALACHIAN WOMAN SPOTLIGHT:

Julia Parsell

Tracy Fletcher McGlothlin

“Every one of us is called upon, perhaps many times, to start a new life. A frightening diagnosis, a marriage, a move, loss of a job...And onward full-tilt we go, pitched and wrecked and absurdly resolute, driven in spite of everything to make good on a new shore. To be hopeful, to embrace one possibility after another– that is surely the basic instinct... Crying out: High tide! Time to move out into the glorious debris. Time to take this life for what it is.” — Barbara Kingsolver, Modern Appalachian Woman and Prolific Writer

ne thing I’ve learned as I have or three generations thelived Fletcher family served among and with Appalachian coal miners’ families from their stores in women all my life, is a character of groceries, hardVansant, Virginia, providing strength, resilience, and unconditional love. ware, furniture, sporting goods, and, you name it. Yes, Each I have been blessed with these women generation learned the value of hard work, in my life. Many them integrity, have embraced serving the of public, and faith in God. Last bothyear the feminine and masculine a new chapter in the energies Fletcher family history of by being both mother and At provider for the businesses opened. the helm of the new enterprise family, including my mother and my aunt. is Tracy Fletcher McGlothlin in Lebanon, VA. Yes, evenBorn strong Appalachian women cryTracy has always had and raised in Vansant, and aget discouraged, yet they fierce competitive spiritdon’t and astay “don’t quit” attitude. down, as a butterfly morph into athese attributes and Atand Grundy Seniorthey High School, new her and love betterofversion of themselves they score almost 1,500 basketball helpedasTracy journey along. Here is a bitConverse of my storyAll-America as a points and achieve status. She modern Appalachian woman. earned a full scholarship to Tennessee Tech, playing Born in Virginia, I grew uptofrom the ageUniverof one there twoRadford, years before transferring Concord in Washington Co., Johnchampionship S Battle High sity. Tracy led herVirginia, team to attended a conference School andher Virginia Community My during senior Highlands year, was the conference’sCollege. most valulife able followed a “normal” trajectory for overand forty-five years: player, led the nation in scoring rebounding married, life, community involvement, then in herchildren, division,church and achieved All-America status again. explosion! This explosion was leaving marriage and Never satisfied, Tracy tried out for athelong WNBA, making telling children that Iand was receiving “digging down to to myplay roots to it tomythe final round an offer profindfessionally myself.” They were tearfully shocked,thebut loved me in in England, but declined offer. spite of the upsetting news. with a double major in accountHaving graduated At the time of my exploding new depths of self, ing and marketing, Tracy into returned to her rootsI was in running several locations Java J’s (coffee shops) that I had Vansant to open her of first retail business—TC Kidds, a begun years previously. felt theTracy 2008 later recession, many of us children’s clothingI store. addedasmen’s and did.women’s I began closing locations and eventually worked through clothing and changed the name to ‘Tracys.’ a personal bankruptcy. Fortunately, my ‘main Javafor J’s She owned and successfully operated the stay,’ business Downtown Bristol,side continued to do and and provided 23 yearsin working by side with herwell mother best me with much encouragement. I learned a lot about people friend, Clara. during those toughshe days.loved It is when you get down to the nitty Although her business and hometown, grittyTracy you learn character of anshe individual. I smile thinkknewthe there was more wanted to do. While ing of how honorably several of my landlords worked with me as I had to bow out early from leases.

4 | May 2017 | voicemagazineforwomen.com 30 | February 2018 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

This is a photo of my Mom, daughter, granddaughter and two nieces from this past fall.

In my rising up, I learned new skills and health from a ‘w’holistic view that had always been deep in my heart, just as prayer continues to be so. I have two memories that are poignant from two grandmothers. When I was a little girl, I would travel to Roanoke Virginia, with my grandmother and brother, Chuck, as our mother stayed in Bristol to work and study. We visited with my great grandparents for a couple of weeks every summer of my childhood. One night as the three of us were going to sleep (all in the same room), my grandmother said, “Julie, are you awake? What are you doing?” I remember telling her that I was praying. Faith has always held a strong position in my life. Being raised in a Christian home taught me many fine qualities, yet when I went down to my roots I began to question everything that I was taught. When I homeschooled my children, we memorized many Bible passages, one was Psalms 19. This Psalm was particularly significant to me as I saw God being available for everyone, no Honeycutt Helbert/Isarae one being excluded. The Tina other memory is that ofPhotography a great-grandmother thatand I knew, but asher a young fully know. She designing building own person home,didn’t she discovered was an Earth mother, believing in the “more” to life that all we a gift and passion for design. Having seen herand home, need to sustain comes the Earth in nourishment, relationfriends invitedus her tofrom redesign their condo located ships, and healing. I thank my aunt Donna for sharing this on Edisto Island, SC. This began her design career with me.Kiawah In my maturity, haveofembraced as well. continue on Island, Ione the top this resorts in Ithe US. my education in holistic health, human consciousness, and herbalism. For the next six years, Tracy traveled between Vansant I say human consciousness, I hearinterior gasps thatdesign I have left and As Kiawah operating a successful the faith of Jesus Christ. On the contrary, I have not, although service and her clothing business. During this time, the relationship has her morphed intoingreater depths and complexishe also obtained degree Interior Design and ties as shown in an entry from my journal almost 10 years expanded her design business to nearby Mt. Pleasant,ago. I speakopening to myself, because listen.design I speak truth, is enduring SC, a retailI must interior storebecause calledit‘East and full of promise. I speak to myself, because I am full of hope, knowing Side Interiors.’ that During the circumstances of my life do not define me. I can't wait for circumthe Christmas holiday in 2008, Tracy’s life stances to change to make my life better. It doesn't happen that drastically changed. Not only did the Great Recessionway. I am the my destiny. I must seize the opportunity and learn from hit, butmaster moreof importantly, her father, the foundation others who have gone before me and have learned lessons for enjoying a continued rich life from whatever circumstances prevail.on next page I am Julia Parsell. I returned to my birth name and am happily married living in the Appalachians of Western NC.

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Julia Parsell