Girlfriends Spring 2012

Faribault • Northfield • Owatonna • St. Peter • Waseca

Spring 2012

Roommates for a year, friends for life.

FASHION!Spring See the latest trends from local merchants

Northfield Retirement Community • 507-664-3466 • 900 Cannon Valley Drive • www.northfieldretirement.org

Swing into Springtime Gardening – and Volunteering.Nothing brightens the Northfield Retirement Community campus like springtime in bloom. Thanks to our master gardener Karen Adams and a host of volunteers, our beautiful grounds make our residents cheery and us proud. From the grasses, lilies and Russian sage around the LifeTrail stations, to the brightly colored blossoms of the Forsythia bushes and fruit trees, the smells and colors of the season bring new beginnings for all.

Volunteers from the Northfield Garden Club and Northfield in Bloom, as well as various youth groups and our own green-thumbed residents, routinely help Karen with planting and maintenance. With five courtyards, two ponds and a trail system to care for, Karen’s is a full-time job and then some.

“I really enjoy working closely with youth,” Karen said. “Our residents develop strong bonds with them, and that is an enriching experience for both generations.”

Youth Volunteer Spring Event – Sunday, April 22 • 1– 3 p.m.

We encourage community organizations, groups, youth and families to help us celebrate Earth Day and participate in this year’s Youth Volunteer Spring Event. For questions about the event, call Milosha Malecha at 507-664-3472 or email [email protected].

Karen Adams, NRC’s Master Gardener

It’s that time of year again. Hibernation is over and those neigh-bors you haven’t seen for months have surfaced.

Warm winds bring out the couples holding hands and enjoy-ing the weather. Love is in the air. Flowers are beginning to sprout. Everyone is holding an ice cream cone and walking their dog.

And, as always, spring brings out the “FREE” signs for crap people want out of their house.

Yesterday, I passed a brown and orange plaid acrylic sofa that was in such bad shape, I wouldn’t let a dog lie on it. Yet, there it was.

Resting in front of a house that I’m sure cost $450,000. The best part: it was FREE! How can you beat that?!

Gosh, do I stop and pick up that sweet deal or do I go for the out-dated car seat on the next block? Sure, it’s held together with a little duct tape and probably not legal anymore and I don’t have a kid, but for God’s sake, it’s FREE!

All of these temptations resting right there, on the side of the road. How can a gal even drive home without picking up one of these treasures?

Since when did a scrap of a cardboard with the word “FREE” scrawled in marker become a universal advertising campaign?

A friend told me the secret. “Your stuff won’t sell unless you have the sign.” If you just put it out there, “MN nice” is afraid to take it.

I took marketing classes in college and I don’t ever remember them talking about leaving your dining room chairs outside in the rain and then trying to come up with a pitch to make them irresistible.

Maybe I was hung over that day and missed that class.

I have never lived anywhere where folks abandoned broken stuff and unsold garage sale pick-ins’ on the side of the road. Is this a Minnesota thing? Whose great idea was this? Why would I want your collection of Aunt Jemima glass syrup bottles(OK, maybe I did pick up those, but they were the originals and she’s an icon after all).

The thing that amazes me the most is that if you have such bad taste that purchasing a patchwork naugahyde Lazy Boy seemed like a good idea, why would you put it out in front of your own home? Why announce to your neighbors what dreadful personal style you have.

And if most of the patchwork has been mended with electrical tape, take it out in the dark of night and put it on the sidewalk in front of your ex’s house or the boss you always hated.

You wonder why your neighbors won’t invite you to their annual holiday party? They’ve seen the crap that you dragged out of the

garage and those neighbors want nothing to do with you.

I mean it’s one thing if you’re a student and you’re buying pre-tend furniture that will only last until you graduate, but come on people. You’re grown-ups now. Quit with trying to pawn off your bad taste on anyone who happens to be driving around wasting time after coffee on Sunday. You people are giving our town a bad reputation.

Who’s gonna send their kid to one of our expensive, private colleges when the route to the institution of higher learning is littered with three-legged tables made from “pressed wood prod-uct.” I mean if you have to get rid of the sticker-covered high-chair with tennis balls for feet, at least have the dignity to wait until the sun goes down!

— Many a January finds Mary Closner taking used Christmas trees from people’s yards to spray paint (after all the needles have fallen off) and use for display in her store.

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Spring 2012 Girlfriends.mn 3

Cover Photo About Us

28

Features8 SPRING FASHION With the beautiful spring weather, it’s time for that new

spring look. Local retailers from around the region help you spruce up your closet.

18 SMALL SPACE GARDENING Don’t have the room for an expansive vegetable garden?

You can still enjoy fresh herbs and vegetables in a smaller scale garden.

24 BOUTIQUE WEEK Don’t miss this exclusive offer to save money and shop-

til-you-drop at these local retailers.

28 DEDICATED TO HELPING OTHERS Local women share a love for helping others in the

community. Inspiring stories of how these women reach out to those in need.

36 MENOPAUSE Three experts share their advice for making it through

menopause, without the misery.

40 SHAPE UP FOR SUMMER With swimsuit season just around the corner, it’s time

to shape up for summer. We challenge you to better nutrition and excercise.

Accessories3 Play Clothes

6 Covergirls

27 From the Kitchen

32 Literary Ladies

43 Unexpected Caregiver

} Look for your next issue of Girlfriends the week of May 28.

40

Volume 4, Issue 3Copyright © Girlfriends 2012Published 2012 by: Huckle Media, LLC, 115 W. 5th St., Northfield, MN 55057 / 507-645-1136Send releases and story ideas to: Jerry Smith at Girlfriends Magazine, [email protected]

Publisher: Lauran Rott Associate Editor: Jerry SmithStaff Writer: Brenda Ward Advertising Consultants: Nicole Howard, Lauran Rott, Luke Brown, Rachel Ebbers, Chris Ness, Deb Theisen, Diane Gengler, Mikki Law, Lisa Dwyer, Debbie Ensley, Kristie Biehn Graphic Designer: Ashley PtacekPhotographer: Kelli Wencl

From Left: Deanna Leverson, Dena Pemble and Jen Yost met while attending Gusta-vus Adolphus College and have remaind close friends.

Pages 6-7(Photo by Kelli Wencl)

SPRING 2012where local women turn

Wellness

188

4 Girlfriends.mn Spring 2012

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Updates

Susan Crow, Northfield sustainable jewelry designer featured in “Leave it to the Wedding Professionals,” (Girlfriends Winter 2012 Issue) showcased her jewelry at the Mercedes-Benz New York Fashion Show on Feb. 10 at The Lincoln Center. The event was hosted by Green-Shows, a platform for the visibility and promotion of contemporary and luxury ethical fashion.

Also featured in “Leave it to the Wedding Professionals,” Janesville native Nadine Reibeling placed in the final top three of TLC’s Season 2 of The Next Great Baker.

Congratulations ladies!Correction: In “Making it Work” (Girlfriends Winter 2012 Issue), Cindy Green and Emily Green’s last names were incorrectly printed as Kelly.

New Look!Girlfriends Magazine has been working hard behind the scenes to bring you a new website with more stories from local women in a

fresh, easy to navigate layout. Check it out!

www.girlfriends.mn

By Brenda K.M. Ward With a husband, two young

kids and a job at the Lake Crystal Recreation Center, Jen Yost’s life is a far cry from what it was just a few years ago.

Back in 2005-06, this life-long St. Peter native and her two roommates, Dena Pemble and Deanna Leverson, were all about having fun, taking late night runs to the grocery story, and, well, studying, too.

It was during their days at Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter that these three women met, each having landed at the college almost by accident.

Yost was simply tired of choosing from the many col-lege options and gave in to

her mom’s wishes for her to attend Gustavus. With her mother an employee in the art department and her father and grandfather alumni of the school, surely the school would fit her just fine, too.

Pemble needed a school that began after Labor Day to accommodate her last op-portunity to be a part of the Minnesota State Fair through the 4-H program. Eventually, her younger sister transferred to Gustavus as well.

For Leverson, it was the fabulous food service and ease of navigating the campus that drew her in.

“I liked the small campus. It was the only one I visited that I could find my way around,” joked Leverson.

Yet for each, the choice became just the right one, and together as roommates during their senior year, they lived through endless hours of homework, lasting and not-so-lasting boyfriends, sorority clubs and plenty of college-style food.

“Living together was so easy, so drama free,” Yost said.

Perhaps the ease of their relationship was in the carefree fun they shared: dancing on the bar at the Nicollet town fest to earn the adornment of Mardi Gras beads; taking a ballet class together, after which Yost was proposed to by her now husband; binging – if it can be called that – on microwaved green beans and mushrooms; or joining the

campus-wide scavenger hunts and sorority bonding activities.

Or perhaps a key ingredient to an easy, casual friendship was in sharing time with other groups of friends as well.

Whatever the case, Yost, Pemble and Leverson managed to create a lifelong friendship supporting each other as their lives have taken very different directions from their Gustie days.

Yost continues her family life in St. Peter, while Leverson has since graduated from law school, and now lives in Eden Prairie and works in Bloom-ington. Pemble teaches high school math in Farmington, where she commutes to and from her hometown of Hast-ings. >>>

“I think we’re really good close friends where we don’t have to talk every week. Some friends get mad if you don’t stay in touch all the time, but if you can talk to someone a month down the road and pick up where you

left off, that’s great.” ~Jen Yost

Photo by Kelli Wencl of GingerSnaps Photography From Left: Dena Pemble, Jen Yost, Deanna Leverson

Covergirls

Gustie MemoriesRoommates for a year, friends for life


Covergirls

Though time for together-ness is far different than it was as roommates, the three stay in touch through texts, Facebook, phone calls, occasional outings and the annual “girls night” gathering hosted by Leverson.

“Sometimes Deanna and I get together for dinner and call Jen,” said Pemble. “I’ll talk to

her for 45 minutes then pass the phone to Deanna.”

“It’s like she is there, but just couldn’t share the pizza with us,” said Leverson. “I think we’re really good close friends where we don’t have to talk every week,” Yost said. “Some friends get mad if you don’t stay in touch all

the time, but if you can talk to someone a month down the road and pick up where you left off, that’s great.”

As the three women recently sat together in the student lounge of their alma mater laughing and chatting, it was easy to see that returning to the roots of their friendship

brought back delightful recol-lections of their college days.

“Overall, I have really great memories,” said Leverson. “I love coming back here. It feels like I never left, like being home.” G

Esther Highberg Gault was born in New Sweden Township in 1892. She and her brother Ray graduated from Gustavus Adolphus College in 1916. Esther married L.J. (Bink) Gault and had four children; all whom graduated from

Gustavus: Mary, Jim, Z. Sam and Pernell. Z. Sam became president of the bank after graduating from Gustavus in 1952. Z. Sam met his wife Theresa at Gustavus, in the music department, and he double majored in Music and Business. Their daughter Lisa graduated from Gustavus in 1983, and works at the bank with her brother Sam still today. NCB’s Craig Hanson and Peter Nelson are also Gustie graduates! NCB is proud to have Gustie ties over this past centrury, and through the bank’s donations, NCB is a proud memeber of the Gustavus Adolphus College Founders’ Society.

We’re a small-town community bank,

but we’re big on YOU!

Nicollet couNty BaNk 220 South Third St. St. Peter, MN(507)931-3310

www.nicolletcountybank.comEsther ‘16 Z. Sam ‘52 Lisa ‘83 Peter ‘84 Craig ‘82

Esther Highberg (Gault) standing on the soap box for a college skit with Gustavus classmates

NCB’s Gustie Ties:


NEW SEASON, NEW LOOKWhat’s in for spring fashion

By Brenda K.M. Ward

Like flowers in bloom, fashion this spring celebrates color with oranges, yellows and purples leading the way. If bright colors aren’t your style, opt for softer robin’s egg blues, stone or navy, or the classic combination of black and white.Learn what else is in as you shed your winter wraps and ready for the new looks of the new season.

STICKS AND STONESSonja Swenson, owner

What trends are you seeing for this spring? Look for stripes and polka dots, along with sheer, flowing blouses and skirts in various lengths.

What spring colors are in?Navy and coral are popular, but we have filled the store with many colors to please everyone. Brights, pastels and neutrals are all in abundance.

What is your favorite accessory? Scarves! We have found so many amazing scarves.

Who is one of your favorite designers? Mystree, Sweet Pea, Wooden Ships and Ivy Jane. Great denim includes Jag, Big Star, Cult, Kut and Henry and Belle.

What advice do you have for someone on a budget? Cardigans will transition a dress or blouse into the next season. Scarves add inexpensive interest to revive outfits in your wardrobe.

Stephanie Swanson is wearing earrings by Sweet Romance Vin-tage, $24.95; watch by Tokyo Bay, $72.95; vintage ring by Ollipop, $36.95; wallet/clutch by ILI, $22.95; blouse by LuLuVia, $52.00; Henry & Belle Premium Denim, $128.00

Photo by Daniel Dinsmore Photography

Sticks and Stones 1027 N. Riverfront Dr. Mankato507-345-7110

303 S. Minnesota Ave. St. Peter 507-934-4449


VINTAGE GYPSYMarie Hoese, owner

What trends are you seeing for this spring?I see trending for the spring accordion pleat skirts and skinny jeans in fun candy colors, along with crochet, lace and ruffles in neutral tones. Mixing new with vintage pieces is always in style.

What spring colors are in?Bright retro neons in yellow, orange and purple are big, as is color blocking with kelly greens and lemon yellows. I’m also seeing coral paired differently with colors such as green.

What is your favorite accessory?A vintage necklace or loads of vintage bangles.

Who is one of your favorite designers?Stella McCartney for her fresh designs and vintage inspired styles. I’m also a huge lover of the Free People brand.

What advice do you have for someone on a budget?Shop at the Vintage Gypsy! My store is priced the way I like to shop: stylish, unique and inexpensive. Buying vintage one-of-a-kind pieces to mix with new styles is a great way to express your uniqueness in an affordable way.

ANNA’S CLOSETLucy Sweitzer, owner

What trends are you seeing for this spring? Trends seem to be more consumer-driven than ever before. We are seeing lots of tunics to be worn with leggings or over jeans or capris, along with bright colors and fun and flattering shapes. Women have spoken and finally designers are listening!

What spring colors are in? Bright, bright, bright to be paired with black, white or grey.

What is your favorite accessory? Spring scarves are all the rage right now. A lightweight, colorful scarf can bring life to an old outfit or provide the perfect final touch to a new one. Also hot are solid color cotton or modal scarves.

Who is one of your favorite designers? I always love the unknown, the new and the avant-garde.

What advice do you have for someone on a budget? If it is not a WOW, don’t buy it! What you put on your body should make you stand a little taller, feel a little happier and give you confidence. After all, if you are confident, you are beautiful!

Marie Hoese is wearing a crochet dress, $78; feather medallion necklace, $16; vintage clutch, $22

Jessica Ekeren is wearing a tunic by Zoe, $79; leggings by Comfy, $39; scarf and jewelry $39 for both; clutch purse by Far Nine, $29

Photo by Kelli Wencl, GingerSnaps PhotographyPhoto by Kelli Wencl,

GingerSnaps Photography

Vintage Gypsy • 16228 Main Ave., Prior Lake • 952-388-9478 Anna’s Closet • 302 Division St., Northfield • 507-645-2539


KRISTI’SKristi Larson, owner

What trends are you seeing for this spring? Look for lace and crochet dresses and tops, colored bottoms, bright colored purses, lots of colors in tops, sparkly jeans and ankle length pants.

What spring colors are in? Orange, pink, lime green and turquoise.

What is your favorite accessory? Long chunky necklaces in silver and crystal that go with everything.

Who is one of your favorite designers? Helen Wang jewelry.

What advice do you have for someone on a budget? Buy a few quality bottoms and tops that you can wear multiple seasons and those that work as well at the office as they do on weekends.

Jennifer Smith is wearing a dress by Renaur, $109; earrings by The Goodie bags, $29; bracelet by Liquid Metal$79; purse, $39

LILLIAN’SRonda Rath, owner

What trends are you seeing for this spring? Most noticeably are the bright/electric colored straight leg jeans with wedged sandals. Color blocking styles for tops, dresses and Maxi dresses, as well as an array of patterns for the spring/summer weather styles are also in.

What spring colors are in?Fun colors like neons and tangerine tango (orange/red) – THE color for the season.

What is your favorite accessory? Scarves and hats: Adding a light, bright colored scarf always brightens up any outfit, even the most casual. Hats add a stylist flair as well as functionality.

Who is one of your favorite designers? It’s hard to choose. Many designers have great styles that work so well in combination for a fabulous outfit.

What advice do you have for someone on a budget? At Lillian’s, we have fun and affordable fashions for those on a budget. Most times we can dress our customers with fun fashion and accessories easily under $100.

Lauren Rath is wearing a dress by Lemon Tree, $49; floppy black hat by D&Y, $18; handbag by Jazzed, $63;bracelet, $14; necklace, $16; ring, $14

Photo by Kelli Wencl, GingerSnaps Photography


Kristi’s Clothing 301 Cedar Ave., Owatonna 507-444-0400

Lillian’s • 320 Third St., Farmington • 612-810-8860


FINE THREADSJoyce Hoogenakker, owner

What trends are you seeing for this spring? Opt for tunics, blousons and dresses as well as stripes, paisleys, bold florals and lace. For purses, the bigger the better, and jewelry, too, is all about big and bold in bangles and statement necklaces.

What spring colors are in? Spring colors like greens, all shades of orange, coral and blue, along with black and white.

What is your favorite accessory? Scarves – they can change the look of a top, jacket or dress already in your closet.

Who is one of your favorite designers? Jewelry designer Jen Scheffler.

What advice do you have for someone on a budget? A new accessory can give new life to an older item, be it a necklace and earrings, a great scarf, a shawl or a big purse!

PIECESLiz Meyer, owner What trends are you seeing for this spring? Bright day dresses in patterns or solids. A dress is the swiftest way to look pulled together. Bright colors, big florals and bold graphics are guaranteed attention getters.

What spring colors are in?Fuchsia, orange and turquoise.

What is your favorite accessory? A bold or distinctive piece is an easy way to transform your look — a statement ring, a group of bangles or a headband.

Who is one of your favorite designers? Michael Stars — the chic simplicity of breezy, understated knits your closet can’t live without.

What advice do you have for someone on a budget? Invest in a great fitting jean to go with fun tops.

Linda Blankenberger is wearing a tank by Color Me Cotton, $49; jacket by Color Me Cotton, $68; pants by Color Me Cotton, $61; earrings, $18; necklace, $18; hat by San Diego Hat Co.,$35

Samantha Walden is wearing a dress by Tracy Negoshian, $121.99



Fine Threads 314 Division St.Northfield 507-663-7993

Pieces 1849 Adams St.Mankato 507-385-0520


CLOTHES MENTORKarla Fitzpatrick, owner

What trends are you seeing for this spring? I’m seeing colored denim and pants, flyaway tops, floral scarves and maxi dresses. Wide-stitch, dark wash denim is also still in.

What spring colors are in? Bright colors: yellow, pink, poppy and purple. Also look for stone and light grey.

What is your favorite accessory? A necklace! It adds the perfect finish-ing touch. Go bold for those solid, plain outfits, or go simple with a patterned or embellished piece.

Who is one of your favorite designers? Michael Kors.

What advice do you have for someone on a budget? Find staples in your closet and refresh with one or two trendy pieces to update your wardrobe. Go green, of course, and shop resale for a fraction of mall store prices. You can be frugal and still look fabulous!

Kimberlee Curtis is wearing a dress by Banana Republic, $20; Express fly-away, $12; wedge sandals by Steve Madden, $22; pashmina scarf, $8; brown belt, $8; earrings, $4; bracelet, $5; leather purse by Halogen, $30

Jodi Green is wearing skinny jeans by 7 For all Mankind, $45; top by Ann Taylor Loft, $12; tank top, $8; heels by Shodazzle, $18; leather belt by Levis, $8; scarf, $8; earrings, $4; bracelet, $5; leather purse by Coach, $400

Photos by Kelli Wencl, GingerSnaps Photography

Clothes Mentor Burnsville14629 County Rd 11Burnsville952-953-3835


CREEKSIDE BOUTIQUEWendy Schmidt, owner

What trends are you seeing for this spring? I’m seeing nature prints, bright colored denim pants and capris, tops in a variety of horizontal stripes and messenger bags and clutches.

What spring colors are in? Color hues similar to a box of crayons: tangerine orange, bubble-gum pink, tur-quoise, cobalt blue and kelly green, as well as bold pastels.

What is your favorite accessory? I love shoes. There are many fun choices like metallic flats, wedges and shoes with ankle straps or back zippers.

Who is one of your favorite designers? Nic & Zoe offers clothing with beautiful rich colors and fun details.

What advice do you have for someone on a budget? Get good classic separates that you can mix and match or add accessories to and change up the look.

Lisa Montag is wearing a top by Comfy U.S.A., $87; capris by Renaur, $43; sandals by Brighton, $180; bag by Big Buddha, $105; necklace by Ethel & Myrtle, $22

You’re not fully dressed without a

Smile

507.645.4222 | 651.714.4987 • minnesotaorthodontics.comNorthfield • Hastings • Inver Grove Heights • Woodbury

What is the hot look for spring and summer? Any outfit should always be complimented by a great smile!

Advice for someone on a budget:Minnesota Orthodontics offers many financial options, to find one that fits your life best consult with our friendly staff at a no obligation complimentary consultation.

Favorite accessory? Red lipstick to show off that amazing smile!

Favorite Designers:Dr. Delia Dall’Arancio and Dr. Regina Blevins are specialists in the art of smile design


Creekside Boutique120 N. Augusta Ct., Ste. 101Mankato507-344-1656


MakeupKathy Anderson, freelance makeup artist, FaribaultA youthful, dewy look is what to opt for when it comes to makeup for this spring. Makeup specialist Kathy Anderson shares some of her tips below. For make-up consultations, Ander-son can be reached at 612-743-2601.

Skin• A light foundation with moisturizer and

sunscreen to cover flaws while protecting skin from sun damage.

• Mineral makeup has come a long way in the past few years, now giving the look of a healthy glow rather than a matte finish. It can also be found with SPF and can be lay-ered with a big, puffy brush to provide more coverage in the areas that need it.

• Self-tanners, too, have changed significantly and are an option for a healthy glow.

• Exfoliate at least one to two times each week to remove dry, dead skin and give a youthful look to your skin.

Eyes• Make the eyes pop with frosted, muted

shadows in at least two colors; plum, lilac or soft greens are the way to go this spring.

• Keep brows in shape and colored compli-mentary to hair color to accentuate the eyes and gives the illusion of having an eyelift.

Lips• Opt for a nude lip in pale frost pink or soft

peach with a bit of gloss. Those with smaller lips may want to go a touch darker. Which-ever you choose, keep it a moist look.

Cheeks• Give your cheeks a shot of shimmer with a

bronze glow, warm and soft – think Jennifer Lopez.

Color• Reds of all shades, including intense coppers and violet-red• Fashion colors like Aveda’s Pure Pigments in purple, red, yellow,

orange and green• Pastels on the ends of blonde hair• Balyage, a highlighting technique where color is painted onto sections

of hair

Style• Long hair, but with softer, more romantic ’50s style curls and waves• Short hair in a blunt bob• Braids of all sorts: loop, waterfall, fishtail

Spring Style: Hair and Makeup

HairNatasha Anderson, stylist at Salon-E-Clips, OwatonnaLeaving behind the “beachy” look of last year, this season’s hairstyles have taken a significant turn, says Anderson. Here’s what to look for:

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Fabulous Finds!Check out these great gift ideas for Mother’s Day!

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FunkyChunky Goodies Confections that are Made in Minnesota! Paper Petalum, Northfield, Starting at $5.95

EnvirosaxReusable bags, available in a variety of colors and styles, that fold into themselves for convenience. The Sketchy Artist, Under $12


Gardens are the delight of many this time of the year, but if the space – or time – required to plant a lush, expansive vegetable or flower patch is lacking, no worries, there is another way.

On a smaller scale, container gardening can bring touches of bountiful color and freshness to your abode requiring no more than a bit of imagination and spritz of time. And there is another added benefit to having fresh flowers, herbs or vegetables a step away: you may very well attract wildlife like birds and butterflies, bringing yet another aspect of nature to your front step.

Sharing a few tricks of the trade with Girlfriends is Rice County Master Gardener Christine Hamblin, who provides easy, breezy tips to make gardening downright doable – even if your space or time is not on par with your dreams.>>>

s m a l l - s pac eGARDENING

Big gardening dreams, small space restrictions

by Brenda K.M. Ward


Work with nature.

“Plants need good drainage, good soil, adequate moisture and appropriate lighting,” says Hamblin.

For any plant, good drainage and proper soil are a given, but how often should you water, and how much light do they really require? It’s easy. Simply follow the given directions of seeds or seedlings.

Plants are clearly labeled with tags indicating the proper light: hostas – mostly shade; herbs – bright light. Stick to the directions and don’t mix and match plants that need different types of light, water or food.

In fact, the biggest killer of plants is overwatering or under-watering, says Hamblin. A manageable way to know when plants need a drink is to simply insert your finder up to the first knuckle or so. If it feels dry, quench its thirst, preferably in the morning.

For balanced soil, your best bet is to buy a premix soil with a slow-release fertilizer. Each year, switch out the soil in your containers to get rid of any dormant bugs and to give plants a fresh start. Adding a handful of dried manure (available at stores) provides extra nitrogen – a nutrient that helps plants grow.

Also, while chemicals are a quick and easy way to keep plants appearing in top shape, bear in mind that nature has its own methods of keeping bugs away. Ladybugs, for example, help get rid of mites that adversely affect many plants. A spray mixture of one part Dawn dishwashing liquid to a gallon of water also deters many sorts of pests from invading your pots.

The Art of Landscape Design

(507) 645 - 9741 (651) 460–2171 SwitzersNursery.com

MNLA 2012 Landscape Design Grand Honor Award

Patios • Pergolas • Outdoor Living

2.5 Million: The number of homes that could be lit from the energy saved if

every American replaced one light bulb with an Energy Star rated one; this action would also prevent emissions of greenhouse gases

equivalent to the emissions of nearly 800,000 cars.”-treehugger.com


Decorate outdoors like you decorate in your house.

When you look out your window, it truly ought to be a happy zone, says Hamblin.

Just as the interior of your home reflects who you are, the outdoors, too, should be an extension of your personality and “color” that welcomes all. The best way to go about this is to experiment, whether it’s finding the right type of pot to suit you – wood, clay or fiber – or the right mix of plantings – flowers, greens, vegetables or fruits.

By combining edible plants and flowers, pest-preying pollinators are attracted, making it difficult for pests to find vegetable plants – an important consideration in organic gardening. Try pairing combinations like celery with silver buckets or borage with strawberries. You’re likely to find considerable beauty and delicious results.

Most anything can be turned into a garden.

Ever considered turning an everyday or unusual item into an uncommon garden space for showcasing plants? That’s just what Hamblin suggests to bring an added element of interest to your outdoor space.

An antique stove with the top cut off or an old-fashioned washing machine, for example, can bring character to a patio or front porch. Perhaps even a watering can or a gramophone horn spilling over with flowers can do the same thing.

Simply use a plastic tub of fitting size (if needed) and poke several small holes in the bottom and sides for good drainage. If the tub is deep, use a space filler in the bottom, like the containers from the seedlings placed upside down. Then, fill the container with a nutrient-packed soil, such as Miracle Grow, and plant the seedlings.

This is also a beautiful way to display smaller collections of herbs on a patio, keeping this useful plant just a few steps away from your kitchen.

Change out your plants as the season wears on.

In southern Minnesota (zone 4), Mother’s Day is typically a good time to begin planting outdoors. If you choose to do so earlier, ensure that the plant can handle a bit of frost: tulips, daffodils or vinca vine, for example.

“If all else fails, go with asparagus ferns or geraniums,” said Hamblin. Such plants are hardy and often last, despite challenging conditions.

As plants become weary or as new ones come into season, replace the old, whether individually or the entire pot. Hamblin does so up to three times throughout the season.Then, when the season ends, transplant perennials directly into the ground and cover with a nice thick layer of mulch – which can also hold extra moisture in during dry seasons like we’ve recently experienced. Annuals, too, can sometimes be saved by keeping them in a garage or basement above 40 degrees.


Steele County Free FairMinnesota’s Largest County Fair

Owatonna, MN • 507.451.5305 or 800.423.6466

NEW Big Wheel Walker NEW Bigger Midway

“Biggest Reunion in the State of the Union” Check out our OFF SEASON EVENTS at the fairgrounds www.scff.org

Aug. 14-19th, 2012

Remember three easy steps: thrill, fill, spill.

When putting together pots, these three simple steps will result in a luscious, balanced look for container pots:

• Thrill – To add excitement to the mix, choose plants that add height and drama, like flowering or foliage plants placed in the center or back of the pot. Examples include coleus, ornament grasses or geraniums.

• Fill – Fillers are rounded or mounded plants that fill in the mid-dle ground of the combination. Place these in front of or around the thriller. Examples include superbells, heliopsis or impatiens.

• Spill – Remember to include a trailing plant that will spill over the edges of a pot to complete the look. Plant these around the edges or at the front. Examples include petunia, sweet potato vine or verbena.

Couples Date NightFriday & SaturdaysTee Times – 1 Hr after Twilight

Faribault Ladies Golf League9 holes, golf any day at your convenience!

1515 Shumway Avenue, Faribault507.332.7177 • legacygolf.net

Grand Opening Week Aug 28 - Sept 1 for the CLUBHOUSE, EVENT PAVILION & THE GRILL at THE LEGACY

Sun Aug 28 Mon Aug 29 Tues Aug 30 Wed Aug 31 Thurs Sept 1 Luau Family Day 6:00 Ribbon Cutting Taco Tuesday $5 Pizza Prime Rib $5 Hog Roast Free Hotdogs and $2 Tacos 11:00-10:00 $10 Special 11:30-2:30 Ice Cream Social 11:00-3:00 5:00-9:00 $1 Flaming Bananas 5:00-7:00 Proceeds to Youth Hockey 1515 Shumway Ave Faribault, MN 55021 507.332.7177 www.legacygolf.net

Golf Special ( with cart ) : 9 holes $20, 18 holes $30 25% Off all Golf Apparel Daily Registration for Door Prizes

Experience

The LegacyLegacy Golf

The Grill at the Legacy The Event Pavillion

THE LEGACY is a championship 18-hole facility offering value-added golf and a warm friendly environment for golf outings & casual dining. It provides a unique setting for meetings, reunions, groom’s dinners, banquets and bridal showers. The indoor Grill can accommodate 30-50 people & the open-air Pavilion can accommodate up to 170.

For more information about any of the above, other leagues, including a Jr League, rates & menus, please visit our website

Garden toursMany gardeners take great pride in growing the loveliest of flowers and plants in artfully designed plots. Tour these gardens for inspiration or for simple pure pleasure.

NorthfieldTour private gardens where artists, too, are found creat-ing and demonstrating their mediums. Held in June and coordinated by the Northfield Garden Club. Find information at northfieldgardenclub.org.

Jo Ryo En Japanese Garden, Carleton College, has been named one of the 10 best Japanese gardens outside Japan. Find information at carleton.edu.

FaribaultThe gardens of Roger Koopm-kan attracts thousands each summer. Call 507-332-9895 for information.

WasecaEnjoy local garden tours throughout the city held the first Sunday in August.

OwatonnaThe Secret Garden Tour is hosted by the Owatonna Arts Center in July. Find information at oacarts.org or call 507-451-0533.


Shrubs • Trees • Roses • Annuals • Perennials Vegetable Plants • Hanging Baskets • Pre-Potted

Arrangements • Mulch • Potting Soil Shepherd Hooks • Patio Furniture & Much More!

Making lives easier, healthier, happier

Faribault 1920 Grant Street NW

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Owatonna1620 S Cedar Ave

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Waseca1230 N. State St 507-835-8030

It is easier than ever to shop and save at Hy-Vee with the convenient Hy-Vee App-another way we are making

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2. Belle Plaine Emma Kurmbee’s

3. Prior Lake Vintage Gypsy

4. Lakeville Posh Baby Boutique

5. New Prague Bargain Betty’s Mainstream Boutique Marquardt Jewelers Trends and Treasures

6. Farmington Lillians

7. Northfield Anna’s Closet Fine Threads Rooms by Tagg 2 Sister’s Ugly

8. Montgomery LaNette’s Antiques ‘n Lace

9. Faribault Annie Belle Creations Clothes Closet Crafty Maven Creating a Ruckus Nook and Cranny Weddings by Deb

10. Owatonna Kristi’s Clothing Healthy Living Oriental Massage and Nails Owatonna Shoe St. Clair’s for Men Uptown Consignment

11. Blooming Prairie A Touch of Charm

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April 27-May 6

Ten days to shop-til-you-drop with exclusive deals from these fabulous retailers in the region.

To get your savings pass and more details, visit girlfriends.mn

1. Burnsville Clothes Mentor

2. Belle Plaine Emma Kurmbee’s

3. Prior Lake Vintage Gypsy

4. Lakeville Posh Baby Boutique

5. New Prague Bargain Betty’s Mainstream Boutique Marquardt Jewelers Trends and Treasures

6. Farmington Lillians

7. Northfield Anna’s Closet Fine Threads Rooms by Tagg 2 Sister’s Ugly

8. Montgomery LaNette’s Antiques ‘n Lace

9. Faribault Annie Belle Creations Clothes Closet Crafty Maven Creating a Ruckus Nook and Cranny Weddings by Deb

10. Owatonna Kristi’s Clothing Healthy Living Oriental Massage and Nails Owatonna Shoe St. Clair’s for Men Uptown Consignment

11. Blooming Prairie A Touch of Charm

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Explore: OwatonnaPanache Floral

216 N. Cedar Ave, Owatonna877-760-2102 | 507-214-2919 | panachefloral.net

Unique Arrangements & Gifts Magic Ten Nails: Professional nail care for ladies and gentlemen

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“A Real Shoe Store”Owatonna Shoe

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Fresh and Artificial Custom ArrangementsNew Spring Gifts

New Potatoes in Roasted Garlic Cream Sauce

Ingredients2 quarts quartered red potatoes1 leek, chopped1 cup white wine1 cup vegetable stock1 cup heavy cream1 cup parmesan cheese3 cloves garlic, peeled1 tablespoon olive oil2 teaspoons sea salt2 teaspoons pepper1 bunch parsley, minced

Directions1. Sauteé leeks in olive oil until limp. Add wine and cook over high heat for 3-4

minutes. Add vegetable broth and continue cooking until reduced by half.

2. Boil chopped potatoes and cook until soft, but do not overcook. Drain and rinse gently with cold water.

3. Mix whole garlic cloves with olive oil and place on small baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until garlic is brown and blistered.

4. Add cream to wine mixture and cook until cream is hot. Whisk in parmesan cheese and cook until smooth. Add salt and pepper.

5. Place browned garlic clove in wine cream mixture and pureé.

6. Gently mix potatoes, cream wine mixture and parsley in a large mixing bowl.

Recipe by Shyama O’Brien, deli manager at St. Peter Food Co-op

New crop red potatoes are one of the first fresh and wonderful ingredients to arrive in Minnesota in early May, which coincides with wild ramps found in Minnesota – a great substitute for leeks. This is a hearty recipe that can stand on its own as a vegetarian dish or accompany grilled lamb, chicken or beef. It also pairs well with fresh grilled asparagus.

As the deli manager of the St. Peter Food Co-op, Shyama O’Brien has been working with local, organic and seasonal food for 20 years.

From the Kitchen

Girlfriends photos by Brenda Ward

Shyama O’Brien


Mary FinkExecutive Director, Steele County Clothesline

When Mary Fink first began volunteering at the Steele County Clothesline, a nonprofit dedicated to providing families in need with clothing, her first job was to clear out the old site of 30 years – one very large closet. Next task: hand out winter coats to kids in need.

“I fell in love with the organization right then and there.”

Back in her own childhood, Fink and her five siblings were raised by a single mother doing her best to make ends meet while ensuring her children were well dressed, so as not to be teased. This childhood memory carried over into her adult life, providing Fink with compas-sion for those who have found themselves in a similar situation.

“For families with growing children, we want the kids to have clothes similar to their peers so they are less prone to bullying. We want people to go to job interviews with appropriate business wear,” Fink said. “The Steele County Clothes Line is an indispensible safety net for people who have fallen on hard times.”

As director since 1999, Fink manages 11 dedicated volunteers and finds funding sources to keep the organization afloat financially – a task that is becoming more and more difficult. Helping to fill in the gaps, however, are Fink’s innovative ideas including an annual Spring Fashion Show held between Easter and Mother’s Day.

For more information on the show, or to donate goods, contact Fink at 507-451-2550.

Angela StorchExecutive Director, American Red Cross of Rice, Le Sueur and Waseca Counties

Formerly in a career in which she helped people find jobs, a few years ago Angela Storch found herself in the humbling posi-tion of being displaced from her own job due to budget cuts. Then along came the position of chapter executive director of the American Red Cross in 2009, a position that was of-fered to her and one that seems to be an ideal

match for the energetic Storch.

As the only paid staff member for the chapter, Storch relies on and coordinates hundreds of volunteers and provides publicity for this indispensible organization that gives immediate support to people in times of disaster.

“I thought I knew my Red Cross – I had no idea. It resonated within me to let people know what the Red Cross does. It is an enormous job and I am incredibly passionate about it.”

With more than 120,000 people to take care of in a three-county area, it is an organization that is ever in need of volunteers, whether as board members who help establish community connections, as ambassadors within communities that pave the way for volunteers and donors, to donate blood or money, or to help respond to disasters like floods, fires, tornadoes and more. Volunteering just may leave you feeling that same passion Storch feels on an everyday basis.

“I love connecting people with resources and making things happen. You touch people like you never dreamed you could humanly do. I feel really, really blessed.”

Dedicated to

Helping OthersBy Brenda K.M. Ward

Just what does it take to run a nonprofit organization and what is it that draws people to do so? Girlfriends talked to five women who have dedicated their careers to the support of others.


Karen BuumExecutive Director, Waseca Area Foundation

It’s not often a person finds a career where a significant part of her job is to give away money, but that’s just what Karen Buum does in her position as executive director of the Waseca Area Foundation.

“I’ve been able to be in a front row seat of watching money being given away by a very generous community.”

As a former human resources manager for most of her career, Buum began to reevaluate where she wanted to focus her own time and effort and found that what she really wanted was to reconnect with

the community of Waseca and have a real presence in the lives of her grandchildren.

That’s just what she’s been afforded in her position of four years, where, along with giving away money, she coordinates and facilitates board activities, works in fund development and brings to the com-munity awareness of what the WAF does — supports arts, culture, education, recreation, and health and human services of Waseca.

It’s also allowed Buum to become more active in the community, like joining the Lions Club – another group that serves the community – and becoming a “church lady.”

“It’s been a wonderful journey. I’ve been able to put my whole self into the second half of my life. There’s no coasting, but I’m not interested in coasting.” >>>

Cedar Gallery110 N Cedar Ave, Owatonna507-451-3460cedargalleryandframing.com

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Barbara CaldwellExecutive Director, River Bend Nature Center

Since moving to Faribault, Barbara Caldwell has found a new form of enjoyment: watch-ing the thirteen-lined ground squirrels display their funny antics underneath the bird feeders at River Bend Nature Center in Faribault. This oddly-named creature wasn’t something she’d ever seen while living in the south for 20 years.

It was from Louisiana that Caldwell and her husband, author Jack Caldwell, moved after Hurricane Katrina forced Jack out of a job. After a stint in Wisconsin, they landed in Faribault where Caldwell oversees all programs and operations of River Bend, including land manage-ment, fundraising and community relations.

“River Bend is such an asset to the whole southeastern area of Min-nesota. It provides a chance to find peace and quiet at a time when we are so tied to our electronics and hectic schedules. There are lots of ways to use River Bend depending on your lifestyle and interest.”

Caldwell finds that the many animals, plants and trees – and wonder-ful staff and board of directors – make River Bend a great place to spend her days. She also looks forward to trying her hand at tapping maple trees for the second year, an event that culminates in a Maple Syrup Fun Run and Pancake Breakfast held April 29.

Dayna NorvaldExecutive Director, Rice County Habitat for Humanity

Dayna Norvald is a real estate developer, a builder and a neighborhood planner. She also acts as a counselor, a social worker and a financier. Many hats line her closet shelves, each of them representing both challenges and excitement in her position as executive director of Rice County Habitat for Human-ity, an organization that builds homes with

volunteer labor and donated materials, allowing homeowners to keep their monthly payments affordable.

“Habitat for Humanity is a community’s response to what they see as needs for people who are lower income. It is an active response to a shortage of housing that is literally in our backyards,” Norvald said.

As many as 500 people volunteer at any given building site, including the soon-to-be homeowners, each one of them directly benefitting the family who will occupy the home, as well as future generations. Lead-ing them is Norvald, and throughout the five years she has held this position, both her abilities and her faith have been stretched.

“It is important in my life to be in a faith-based organization where my soul gets filled, where I am able to live out a ministry.”

Dedicated to Helping Others

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It’s women caring for women at Women’s Health Center of Northfield Hospital & Clinics. Our OB/GYN specialistis see women of all ages in Northfield, Farmington and Lakeville. They deliver babies and per-form surgeries at Northfield Hospital.

This unique practice provides you an opportunity to get supportive and comprehensive care from clinicians who understand your time of life and understand how to best meet your needs.

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Call 507-646-1478 for your appointment.


Explore: New Prague

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A family traidition since 1965

There was once a girl named Janey, who grew up and became known as Mrs. Jane Jones. Life was pleasant, carefree even. Soon enough, her name changed to Mommy and suddenly her recognizable days had gone amok.

Now caretaker, art director, chef, therapist, doctor, chauffeur and personal shopper – not to mention homemaker and yes, still wife – Jane was feeling frazzled, tired and even depressed. How, Jane wondered, was she to keep a sense of sanity in this newfound role of motherhood?

While there may be no magic formula that brings unbroken serenity to the life of a mom, there is a lot of knowledge to be gained from the support of others: friends, family or professionals.

Shannon Hyland-Tassava is one such professional who lives what she teaches. A psychologist and stay-at-home mom, Hyland-Tassava has recently published a survival manual for women seeking help in keeping it all together, “The Essential Stay-at-Home Mom Manual: How to Have a Wondrous Life Amidst Kids and Chaos.”

“Becoming a stay-at-home mom was much harder than I’d expected or heard, even though at the same time I loved it madly,” Hyland-Tassava

said. “I figured that if I felt that way, most likely a lot of other stay-at-home moms felt that way, too. What If I could laugh and cry and empathize with those other fellow at-home moms about this crazy-wonderful experience, and then also use my psychologist skills to propose strategies for making the rough parts easier?”

That’s just what Hyland-Tassava did in writing her book – a trove of professional self-help advice combined with practical strategies for bring-ing greater ease and enjoyment to motherhood. Between the covers, you’ll find welcome advice on how to create a healthy balance between par-enting and the many other aspects of life while staying physically and emotionally healthy. Hyland-Tassava also shares activities for kids, how to manage the housekeeping and much more.

With Mother’s Day soon here, “The Essential Stay-at-Home Mom Manual” may be the ideal gift for the “Janes” in your life who could use a supportive friend.

Shannon Hyland-Tassava

The Essential Stay-at-Home Mom Manual: How to Have a Wondrous Life Amidst Kids and ChaosBooktrope Publishing, paperback, $14.95

By Brenda K.M. Ward

Shannon Hyland-TassavaPhoto by Salina J Photography

LegacyFine Art Asian Art Photographs & Prints ColleCtAbles Ancient Art Antiquities

Modern Art Furniture & Decorative Arts books, Manuscripts & Maps Paintings

Drawings & Watercolors sculptures & statuesiMPressionist Art Post War Art JeWelry

A r t Au c t i o n

steele County

History Center

Friday, April 27th, 2012Steele Co. History Center – 1700 Austin Road Ticket Cost $306:30pm Artwork on Display | Hors d’oeuvres7:30pm Live Auction Commences

Literary Ladies


Minnesota cranks out a fine share of authors including those famous like Sinclair Lewis, Maud Hart Lovelace and Charles Schultz, and those regarded in more intimate literary circles. Come April 28, readers are offered the opportunity to connect with some of our home-grown authors at the inaugural St. Peter Book Festival held at the St. Peter Community Center.

Bring your girlfriends and find fascinating new reads, enlarge your collection of signed books, and hear first-hand how select authors live a writer’s life during a featured Writer’s Panel.

The festival is sponsored by St. Peter Reads, a community-wide reading program.

But wait...there’s more!Head over to Northfield during the week of April 24-28 for the 2012 Great Northfield, Minnesota Book Raid held at the Northfield Ice Arena.

In its 51st year the event has grown to include tens of thousands of books, cds, DVDs and videotapes of every imaginable genre donated by community members. Sponsored by the

Northfield Hospital Ladies’ Auxiliary, this year’s proceeds from the popular event will be directed to the Cancer Care Infusion Center at Northfield Hospital.

Donations are what make this event the suc-cess it is, so if you have extra books taking up space in your home, drop by the ice arena and hand them over to one of the dozens of will-ing volunteers. Donations are accepted from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday, April 9-20 at the ice arena.

St. Peter Book FestivalApril 28, from 1 to 5 p.m. at the St. Peter Community Center, 600 S. Fifth St., St. Peter

Adult Writer’s Panel featuring Barbara Fister, Connie Claire Szarke and Roger McKnight from 1:30 to 2:15 p.m.

The 2012 Great Northfield, Minnesota Book RaidApril 24, 5 to 10 p.m.April 25-27, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.April 28, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.Held at the Northfield Ice Arena, S. Highway 3, Northfield

Celebrate spring with a good bookBy Brenda K.M. Ward

City Hall is available for $12.95 at amazon.com or by emailing [email protected].

Meet Northfield’s Jim Reiley, author of 7 novels, at the St. Peter Book Festival held Saturday, April 28 at the St. Peter Community Center.

Corporate deception. Entangled relationships. Fast-paced drama.

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WellnessWe all know that we need adequate amounts of calcium in our diet for strong bones and teeth. But milk isn’t the only source of the calcium your body needs. The following list offers you healthy sources of foods high in calcium.

(globalhealingcenter.com)

1. Dark leafy greens. From greens to spinach to kale, getting our calcium from dark green leafy vegetables is a an excellent health choice. Spinach ranks very high in calcium, with 56 mg of calcium per cup. A 100 g serving of collards packs a 145 mg calcium punch. One cup of steamed bok choy has around 158 mg of the mineral. Kale ranks in with 139 mg of calcium and the spicy mustard green has 103 mg of calcium per 100 g serving. 2. Flax seeds. Not only high in calcium (256 mg per 100 g serving), flax seeds are also rich in omega-3 fats. Make sure to use ground or whole flax seeds, as the refined flaxseed oil loses its calcium levels during processing. Flax seeds are also a great way to improve your intestinal health.

3. Quinoa. A light and healthy whole grain, one cup of cooked quinoa offers approximately 60-100 mg of calcium. 4. Blackstrap molasses. High in multiple vitamins and minerals, one tablespoon of this thick dark molasses will give you 172 mg of your daily calcium needs. Try it in your morning cup of organic tea or coffee. 6. Oranges. One cup of freshly-squeezed organic orange juice offers ap-proximately 72 mg of calcium. Besides vitamin C and calcium, oranges are also a great source for potassium, vitamin A and beta carotene. 7. Beans. Many common beans are high in calcium. Winged beans possess 442 mg of calcium per 100 g serving. Most white beans have approximately 175 mg of calcium per serving. Navy beans are also a great source of calcium, with 127 mg per cup. 8. Broccoli. One cup of these green florets offers approximately 74 mg of calcium, along with 120 mg of vitamin C which will help your body absorb the calcium.

THE NUTRITIONIST’S TAKEAs with most health related issues, eating a proper diet is essential during menopausal years, says Pat Dunn, nutri-tionist and owner of Pat Dunn Nutrition in Northfield.

When meeting with her clients, Dunn first takes the time to learn about pres-ent habits — including diet — and she doesn’t always like what she finds.

“I typically see a lot of caffeine, sweets and fatty proteins and not enough fruits and vegetables,” she said. “This typical American diet is why we strug-gle with menopause as we do today.”

Dunn then individually coaches her clients to start by eating a variety of foods to get a wide range of nutrients.

Shopping the outer parameter of the grocery store is the most effective way to avoid unhealthy prepackaged foods, she says, and sets you on the right path to a proper diet, which will effectively reduce hot flashes, weight gain and depression.

“Depression is huge among menopaus-al women,” Dunn said. “A doctor might put you on an antidepressant, but changing your diet and adding exercise can ease depression and encourage weight loss.”

For the best opportunity to sail through menopause with fewer or reduced symptoms, Dunn recommends the fol-lowing:

>> Eat these• Most importantly, get plenty of vita-mins E, B-complex, C and A, and the mineral calcium – two to four servings of dairy products and calcium-rich foods each day will strengthen bones, but do not consume more than 2,000 mg daily.

• Eat at least three servings of iron-rich foods daily like red meat, fish, leafy greens and nuts.

• Most adult women should get about 20 grams of fiber each day through whole grain foods, fruits and veg-etables, including two to four servings of fruits and three to five servings of vegetables daily.

Menopause.The word alone has the power to invoke worry and dread in women, knowing that this natural biological process will leave none of us behind. But how, you may wonder, do you sideline the dreaded hot flashes, mood swings, weight gain and vaginal dryness that can escort “the change?”

Throughout history, this has been the quest of women.

In the early days of Yorkshire, to cure hot flashes it was recommended to eat a cock’s liver after fasting and drink parsley tea each day. Here in the States, women from Georgia swore by tea made of parched egg-

shells or green coffee. However, if you were to have lived in Arkansas, you may have found relief by chewing on cinnamon bark or – even better – snuggling in for a good night’s sleep with an axe, a pan of water and a sack of meal tucked underneath your bed.

Everyone wants to be comfortable during this time of declining repro-ductive hormones, so Girlfriends asked three experts to share their recommendations in relieving the symptoms of menopause.

What we found was a broad range of answers that give women a choice in finding just the right fit.

undermine the misery of MENOPAUSE

By Brenda K.M. Ward

Three experts suggest three very different ways to find your way through menopause with more comfort

Wellness


• Eat plant-based foods with isofla-vones, like those found in soy. Such food works like a weak estrogen that may relieve hot flashes and night sweats.

• Stay hydrated with plenty of water. At minimum follow the general rule of eight, 8-ounce glasses each day.

• Herbs such as dan gui, black cohosh and motherwort can help relieve a variety of symptoms while royal jelly can tone the feminine hormonal system providing more energy and an improved sense of well-being. Seek pro-fessional guidance when using these.

>> Avoid these• Saturated fats and trans-fats should provide 30 percent or less of your total daily calories, especially during meno-pause when there is an increased risk of heart disease. Limit fatty meats, whole milk, ice cream, cheese and vegetable oils.

• To reduce water tension, limit sodium to 1,200 to 1,500 milligrams a day.

• To reduce hot flashes, limit spicy food, caffeine and alcohol. Chemicals, preser-vatives and food coloring should also be avoided whenever possible.

• Avoid zeno estrogens that come from synthetic clothing and can leach through the skin. Instead, wear cotton, wool or silk.

>> What else• Maintain a healthy weight, but do not skip meals.

• Eat five to six smaller, nutritious meals throughout the day to maintain blood sugar levels. >>>

Getting enough fruits and vegetables can help with symptoms of menopause

Wellness


THE ACUPUNCTURIST’S TAKE:Acupuncture is a holistic approach of mind, body and spirit, says Michelle LaCroix, licensed acupuncturist, registered nurse and owner of the Acupuncture and Pain Management Clinic in Faribault. When these facets are out of balance, symptoms reside – menopausal symptoms included. But through individually tailored acupuncture, herbs, nutrition, exercise, prayer or meditation, a body regains its balance for healthy living.

“When a person comes to me, I’ll check her pulse, look at the geog-raphy, shape and color of her tongue and assess her face, nails, eyes and skin. All of those tell me so much information – people don’t have to be able to verbalize what’s happening.”

Though two women may have the same symptoms of menopause, each person is different, says LaCroix, and each will have two differ-ent treatment plans.

The treatment may very well begin with acupuncture. With no inherently dangerous side effects, acupuncture appears to be effec-tive in reducing the dreaded hot flashes and regulating hormonal and chemical imbalances.

The simple process involves the painless insertion of as few as two needles into specific energy points of the body – points that con-nect to the areas of imbalance – followed by a period of relaxation that allows time for rebalancing one’s energy.

“I’ve had women come in with hot flashes and watched their faces turn red. When I put the needles in, it is like deflating a balloon,” LaCroix said.

LaCroix will then likely discuss exercise and nutrition plans and the importance of gaining a sense of spirituality.

“It doesn’t matter what flavor religion it is as long as it is a healthy, fulfilling experience,” she said. “It’s so important to have some sort of connection with God or the universe so that you are grounded.”

When herbs are recommended, LaCroix uses only those she feels are as safe as possible, but also lets her patients know that herbs have the potential for side effects and that pharmaceutical agents may react negatively to them. It’s very important, she says, to stay in communication with your medical doctor, too.

“When a woman comes to see me, it’s a partnership with the patient and her medical doctor,” LaCroix said. “I encourage patients to let their medical doctor know what we’re doing. We’re all a piece of the pie.”

THE MEDICAL DOCTOR’S TAKEAs a woman’s body stops making eggs, the hormones estrogen and progesterone also decline, often leading to hot flashes. A doctor might prescribe hormone replacement therapy to help relieve those sudden bursts of flaming heat, but there are risks involved — and, conversely, potential benefits.

“Hot flashes are the most common complaint of menopause,” said Mark Reimer, MD with a specialty in obstetrics and gynecology at Mayo Clinic Health System in Owatonna. “Hormone replacement therapy very effectively treats hot flashes and reduces the chances of colon cancer and osteoporosis.”

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Yet the prescription drug also increases chances of stroke and heart attack and may cause blood clots and an increase in breast cancer.To reduce the chances of such occurrences, Dr. Reimer works closely with his patients in finding the right type of HRT and the right dosage during menopausal years.

“For some women, hot flashes become better once they stop having periods, but 80 percent are still bothered by them,” he says. “Some — up to 15 percent — need long-term treatment for hot flashes.”

For those who do go on HRT, Dr. Reimer recommends trying estro-gen in a patch form rather than a pill, which then avoids passing through the liver — where clotting factors are made — making it a safer form of treatment.

Dr. Reimer also says nutrition is important and believes adequate calcium and vitamin D are necessary to keep bones strong. Acu-puncture can be effective in relieving symptoms at times, as can botanicals and anti-depressants. G

Jump-Start on HealthyThis early spring warm-up is the perfect time to get a jump-start on healthier habits. Even during busy days, it’s easy to sneak in some time for our health. Here are some tips to get you moving more, eating better, and feeling great!

• Eat well! Pack your lunch to be sure your meal is wholesome. Include fresh sliced vegetables like red pepper, carrots, celery, and broccoli, and dip into hum-mus, a delicious spread made from garbanzo beans and sesame seed paste.

• Move! If you don’t have time to exercise, use your regular activities as opportunities to work those muscles. Park farther away than you usually do when shopping or going to work. Better yet, walk or bike to your destination.

• Need more help? If you want extra help losing weight, stop in at Just Food Co-op and our wellness staff can give you more information about SlenderGR, a weight loss supplement.

HOW TO DEAL: GETTING SERIOUS ABOUT STRESS(menopause.org)

Many women find the time around menopause stressful. This may be partially due to hormonal changes and resulting bothersome symptoms such as hot flashes and disrupted sleep. In addition, family and personal issues such as the demands of teenage chil-dren, children leaving home, aging parents, midlife spouses and career changes often converge on women during these years.

Chronic stress is not good for anyone’s health. It may cause in-creased blood pressure and heart rate, headaches, gastric reflux, anxiety, and, over the long term, an increased risk for heart disease. Stress affects not only our health but also our relationships, work performance, general sense of well-being and quality of life.

What can I do to reduce stress?

Exercise. Walk with a friend, join a yoga class, bike, hike — what-ever you enjoy, exercise is a great way to reduce stress and stay healthy.

Talk. Share your concerns with a family member, good friend, healthcare professional or counselor.

Eat well. Although eating chocolate may soothe stress in the short run, overindulgence leads to its own set of problems! A healthier strategy is to eat three nutritious meals daily, with healthy snacks, including fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts and yogurt.

Avoid caffeine and alcohol. Herbal tea (iced, if hot flashes are bothersome) provides a soothing alternative to caffeinated drinks (caffeine elevates levels of cortisol, the “stress” hormone). Although alcohol may make you feel relaxed and drowsy, it has actually been shown to interfere with sleep quality.

Sleep. Adequate sleep is necessary for alert functioning during the waking hours. Most adults require between 6 to 9 hours of sleep per night. Try to determine your sleep needs and then get as much as you need.


By Brenda K.M. Ward

What are the best ways to shape up for the summer season?

Truth be told, the question could be answered a hundred dif-ferent ways by a hundred different experts. But, if you’re not into deeply slashing calories and working out “Biggest Loser” style and would simply like to shed a few pounds and tone up, Girlfriends has the plan to get you started.

We took to the Web this time, researching sites that provide reasonable, doable ideas for getting into shape and narrowed our choices down to two sources: yoga tips by Tara Stiles, who, along with Lance Armstrong and Ryan Hall, has created the program “Master the Shift,” a series of blogs, videos and nationwide teachings; and nutrition advice from TheNest.com, a weekly webzine for “hip and harried married gals.”

EXERCISE“Summer Shape-up Challenge by MTS Tara Stiles” provides the gentle direction of yoga, featuring Ms. Stiles in a room graced with warm wood floors and washed in natural light highlight-ing the curved white walls, creating a palette of serenity to compliment this age-old form of spiritual, physical and mental discipline.

“One thing I love about yoga is it naturally empowers you to realize who the heck you are and then hopefully give you the energy, courage, and inspiration to go out and do something about it,” says Stiles. “When you do what you love, you become a magnet for everything that aligns with your intention.”

The shape-up video, found on YouTube, offers four- to five-min-ute yoga-based basics with guidance on postures and repetition.

Summer Shape-Up

Wellness


Spring into Shape with the Help of a Physical Therapist

Did you know the therapists at In Touch Physical Therapy can help you “spring into shape” with a health and wellness examination?

We can determine if you have muscle weakness or tightness that could affect your running or walking program or even your golf game. Based on the exam, we will help you implement a customized stretching and strengthening program and our therapists will instruct you in the proper ways to exercise to decrease the risk of injuries. Exercising under the supervision of a physical therapist may help you avoid surgery and/or decrease the amount of pain medications you are taking.

The therapists at In Touch can also help you with your aerobic or cardiovascular fitness. Through testing your overall endurance, a therapist can design a personalized cardio program that may include activities such as running or walking that will increase your activity in a safe and gradual manner. A cardio program can help lower your blood pressure, control diabetes and improve your overall health.

Keep the following in mind when starting a cardio program:• Start with a warm up of at least 5 minutes.• Start where you can — if you can’t do 30 minutes, do 5 or 10 minutes.• Plan for recovery days (at least in the beginning) to allow your body to rest and

your muscles to heal from your new routine.• To progress, add a few minutes to your workout until you can go continuously

for 30 minutes.

Improving both muscle performance and aerobic performance is time well spent in improving your overall fitness level, health and quality of life. The physical therapists at In Touch Physical Therapy are knowledgeable resources when starting a “spring into shape” program to maintain health and wellness.

In Touch Physical Therapy123 W. Broadway StOwatonna, MN 55060507-451-7888www.intouchpt.comAnne Lamb, Owner PT

Challenge 1: Flatten My BellyUsing downward dog variations, boat, plank and table top poses, this three-times-per-week routine can give tone to the abdominal area that defies so many women’s ideals for a superb body.

Challenge 2: Shape My ButtA useful posture, the downward dog is utilized again, in this challenge with leg lifts and twists, along with lunges, warrior and twisted half moon.

Challenge 3: Slim My LegsYou guessed it: downward dog moving into twists, low lunges, single leg forward bends and twisted triangle poses.

Challenge 4: Tone My Whole BodyPutting it all together, this challenge works every part of the body – including muscles you may not have even known you had.

Challenge 5: Burn More Fat and CaloriesUsing a combination of downward dog, lunges, prayer twists, twisted half moon, chair pose, high lunge twist and warrior three, recognizable results should begin to occur quickly.

Challenge 6: Stay MotivatedKeeping you on track, this fun but challenging routine also moti-vates and works you toward your ultimate goals.

NUTRITIONYoga brings awareness, including awareness of what you eat, Stiles says.

“Yoga reminds you that your body likes to eat healthy things and that it actually tastes good when you eat healthy,” Stiles, she said. “When you have awareness of what is good and what is bad for your body, your body will feel good.”

Following is a four-week plan created by TheNest.com:

Week 1 Challenge – Eat CleanerSelect foods that are closest to their natural state. If you see a box with 30 ingredients, run the other way, suggests The Nest.

By eating “cleaner” foods, you’ll provide your body with more of the nutrients you need and less of the junk you don’t. You should notice an immediate boost to your energy levels – energy will help fuel you through your new workout plan.

How to do itWhen grocery shopping, choose a mixture of healthy carbohydrates, fats and proteins. • For carbs, focus on whole grains like brown rice, cereals and

breads with at least three grams of fiber. • Proteins speed up your metabolism and help build lean muscle.

Lean meats, low-fat dairy products, and nuts are all healthy sources of protein.

• Look for healthy fats from nuts, olive oil and fatty fish, like salmon or tuna.

• And, of course, don’t forget to eat a variety of fruits and vegetables! >>>

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Week 2 Challenge – Eat more oftenInstead of two or three large meals, aim for five or six smaller meals throughout the day. Doing so will help you feel full longer so you’ll be less likely to overeat, while increasing your metabolism, too.

How to do itAt the beginning of the week, pre-plan your meals for at least three days at a time so that you’ll know what you need.

Pack your meals and snacks to bring with you to work, and tie in protein-rich food, carbohydrates and healthy fats at each snack or meal.

Also, plan one of your small meals within 30 minutes of finishing your workout, a time when your body is most receptive to using calories to build lean muscles, instead of storing those calories as fat.

Week 3 Challenge – Focus on hydrationThink about drinking the cleanest forms of liquid you can, which are water and green tea. Women should drink 8 to 10 glasses of water a day. Make it easy by purchasing a reusable water bottle and refilling it throughout the day. You’ll feel healthier, regulate your ap-petite, and help the environment at the same time.

How to do it:Ditch the sodas and sweet coffees that are plump with extra calories, and replace them with water and green tea.

Week 4 – Look at food from a new perspectiveThis week, take what you’ve learned and prepare to apply it long term. You’re starting to create a new lifestyle for yourself, so look at food as a way to fuel performance and better your health.

How to do it:Stick to the 80/20 rule. Eat your best 80 percent of the time and allow yourself a break the other 20 percent of the time. If you keep this ratio in mind, you can enjoy celebrations with friends without depriving yourself of the foods you love.

Also, keep a food journal to track how many times a day you ate and which foods you ate. Doing so will help reinforce your newly formed habits and show you how far you’ve come. G

Choosing a Swimsuit - Know the Cut (3fatchicks.com) Knowing the perfect swimsuit style for your body type is key towards picking out that perfect swimsuit. Not only should you take colors and design to consideration, the style and cut of your swimwear can make or break your entire look. Make sure you know what swim-wear style is most flattering for your figure. Small busted women would best don triangle tops. A side-tying style is the most versatile for tying around your tummy and avoiding a muffin-top effect. If you want to downplay your hips, you might consider going for a boy-leg bikini bottom. Those with petite figures will often benefit from a one-piece as this creates one long seamless look. Whichever swimsuit style is to your liking, make sure that the cut enhances your assets and is most flattering for your figure.

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No one can jump on another person like a family member can…it’s raw emotion, full of stale, unresolved baggage. It falls on you like a ton of bricks. When it comes to giving care to an aging parent, why should we believe it will be different?

If you’re lucky, you come from a Leave it to Beaver or Brady Bunch family, but reality is, even those TV-land families had issues off set.

Sometimes we’re lucky enough to have magic fairy dust sprinkled

over families and they get along beautifully during family caregiving…that is a blessing indeed. But what about the families who can’t pull it together, have ups and downs, feel guilt-ridden about their parents’ end of life care?

5 tips for families taking care of family:

1. Be aware. Remember the family baggage? The unresolved issues from the past you’ve neatly swept under the proverbial carpet? Once you start down the road of caring for an aging parent, the carpet takes flight and the baggage is exposed. Siblings don’t magically step up to the plate. Brothers and sisters who fought before will fight again. Be aware of this. Maybe it’s time to check back in with your therapist? Don’t have one: get one. A caregiver coach can help. You will revisit issues from the past. Stay alert.

2. Put yourself on the gentle cycle. Now is the time to get that massage, take a long walk, cuddle

with your dog. Take care of yourself. Family caregiving brings a family back together under intense circumstances. You simply must be kind to yourself, which may translate to others as being selfish. Stay true to yourself. Keep your good, best friends on speed dial when you need a quick and supportive message of love.

3. Walk away. Hard as it may be, you may have to excuse yourself from the family. Just because someone needs care, doesn’t mean you have to expose yourself to bad behavior by others. This is not easy. But think of the family member who needs the care…they need calm rather than commotion. You may have to make peace with your role in this person’s life in your own way. Explore with a spiritual director, your pastor or best friend just how you can honor your loved one while taking care of yourself.

4. Mom may not love you best. Now is not the time to fight to be mom’s number one kid. It’s not personal. If mom trusts the

brother you think is incapable of making all her financial decisions, you must let it go. This is not the time to prove to your mother that you’re really better with finances. There are reasons you mother trusts your brother, and that is just how it is. Unless he’s crooked, he’s your mom’s choice.

5. It doesn’t have to be YOU. Even though you promised your parents “you wouldn’t put them in a nursing home,” you didn’t promise that you, all by yourself, would take care of them. You may not be the right fit to change Dad’s diapers or feel Mom. Get help. You may have promised you’d care for them, but that is not the same as doing the hands-on-caregiving.

— Kari Berit (www.KariBerit.com) is a radio show host, speaker and the author of “The Unexpected Caregiver: How Boomers Can Keep Mom & Dad Active, Safe and Independent. Follow her on Facebook!”

Unpacking the family baggage in caregiving

Unexpected Caregiver | Kari Berit

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The State Farm logo is the most visible expression of our corporate identity. It’s composed of the three-oval symbol, which grows out of the State Farm historic identifier, and a modified version of the State Farm wordmark. The logo has been designed to work effectively in all media and at all sizes and should be used to represent State Farm in all forms of communication. The State Farm logo is one of the most recognized in the world. We must leverage its recognition and protect its use. It has a trademark registration and should not be altered for any reason. The State Farm wordmark is an update of the 2007 wordmark. The letters have been carefully drawn to provide maximum legibility at all sizes, and to provide a consistent italic form. The stylized wordmark is always part of the State Farm logo and should never be used alone. The stroke widths, the letter spacing, and the size relationships of the various components of the logo have been carefully developed and should never be altered or recreated. Electronic artwork files are available in the “Downloads” section of the Brand Center. Download artwork

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Girlfriends Guide

• Education

BETHLEHEM ACADEMYBethlehem Academy, a Sinsinawan Dominican Catholic school founded in 1865, is currently home to students in grades 7-12. We strive to em-power our students and staff to achieve personal, spiritual and academic excellence. Call 507-334-3948 to schedule a visit today! See our back cover ad for additional information. 105 3rd Ave SW, Faribault, 507-334-3948, www.bacards.org

• Financial Resources

SANDY WENKER, CPAConveniently located in downtown Faribault, San-dy Wenker, CPA, provides tax planning & prepara-tion, payroll services, accounting & bookkeeping, QuickBooks assistance & training, and new busi-ness consulting. Call or stop in at 14 3rd Street NE, Faribault. 507-333-3973 www.faribaultcpa.com

CASTLE ROCK BANKThe Castle Rock Bank has been serving the women in this community for 96 years. To answer the question, “What do women want in banking?” We believe the answer is, “To be heard, understood, respected and valued.” 27925 Danville Ave Castle Rock • (507) 645-7751 www.castlerockbank.net

STATE BANK OF FARIBAULTState Bank of Faribault is an innovative community bank with two locations in Faribault (established in 1919). Offering business loans, home mort-gage, free mobile banking, free online banking and more, SBF is a leader in convenience, as well as customer service. 507-332-7401 www.tsbf.com Member FDIC Equal housing Lender

• Food & Entertainment

CENTRAL PARK COFFEECentral Park Coffee Co 113 N Cedar Ave, Owaton-na 507-451-4242. We serve lattes, frappes, 100% fruit smoothies. We also serve breakfast and lunch. Gluten-Free sandwiches are available. Visalus nu-trional shakes are low calorie high protein heart smart meals on the go. Stop in to see our jewelry, scarves and gift items. www.centralparkcoffeeco.com

COSTAS CANDIES & RESTAURANTWe are a candy shop & restaurant located in down-town Owatonna that’s been family owned and op-erated for 90 years. All our candy is hand-made & our food is made from scratch using fresh ingredi-ents. Stop in today to experience the small-town, local café, friendly atmosphere of Costas! We’re sure you’ll leave with a smile on your face and a full stomach! 112 N Cedar Avenue, Owatonna, MN 55060, 507.451.9050, Fax: 507.446.0501

COUNTRY KITCHENStill strong on the comfort foods that have defined us for years, today’s menu features old favorites and exciting new flavors. Guests will find Country Kitchen a perfect place to have breakfast anytime of the day or wind down with one of our tempting desserts. Stop in today! 3050 Hwy 60, Faribault, 507-332-4007 www.countrykitchenrestaurants.com

GAINEY CONFERENCE CENTERThe Gainey Conference Center, of the University of St. Thomas, is a full-service conference and retreat facility located in Owatonna. Nestled on 180 acres, Gainey provides groups with dedicated meeting space, private social areas, comfortable lodging and classic cuisine in a distraction-free learning environment for meetings, conferences, retreats or special events. Gainey Conference Center, 2480 South County Road 45, Owatonna, MN 55060. 507-446-4460. www.stthomas.edu/gainey

LEGACY GOLF & THE GRILL AT THE LEGACY The Legacy is a championship 18-hole facility offer-ing value-added golf and a warm friendly environ-ment for golf outings & casual dining. It provides a unique setting for meetings, reunions, groom’s din-ners, banquets and bridal showers. The indoor Grill can accommodate 30-50 people & the open-air Pa-vilion can accommodate up to 170. 1515 Shumway Ave, Faribault, 507-332-7177 www.legacygolf.net

STEVE ROSE’S GROCERY DELIVERY Steve Rose’s Grocery Delivery Services offers the convenience of having groceries and prescriptions delivered right to your door Monday -Saturday. Customers must live within 15 mile radius. We ac-cept coupons and all forms of payments. Orders must be called in or emailed in prior to 11 pm for next day delivery. Faribault 507-838-6282, [email protected]

• Health & Wellness

FIT FOR LIFEFit for Life is a 24-hour Fitness Center located just off Hwy 21 N. We specialize in individual and group personal training as well as weight manage-ment and group fitness classes. State of the Art Cybex Equipment is on site for those who prefer to do it alone. 1400 Cannon Circle, Suite 6, Faribault, 507-333-5430 www.fitforlifemn.com

HAIR-I-TAGE SALONHair-I-Tage Salon is a full service salon located in the heart of downtown Owatonna. We offer such services as hair cuts, color, perms, manicures, ped-icure, massage and more! All of our 9 independent stylist have many years of experience and are up to date on current styles and trends. Give us a call today to set up an appointment, we look forward to seeing you! 320 N Cedar Ave, Owatonna, 507-455-3100, www.hairitagesalonowatonna.com or www.facebook.com/hairitagesalonowatonna

HOLLAND FAMILY DENTALHolland Family Dental is located in the Profes-sional Building on Hillcrest Ave. in Owatonna. We have been in Owatonna since 1996 and concen-trate on dentistry for the entire family. We offer services in preventive, cosmetic and comprehen-sive care which includes implants and up-to-date dental technology. Please visit us at 605 Hillcrest Ave. Owatonna MN. 507-451-7250

MAIN STREET DENTALMain Street Dental Clinics offer comprehensive dentistry for the entire family. Main Street special-izes in superb customer service and gentle dental care. Our office has expanded hours including two evenings and all day Saturday. Relax-It’s Main Street Dental with offices in Blooming Prairie, Owatonna, Rochester and New Richland. 507-455-1000. Visit us at www.mainstreetdentalclinics.com.

MILLSTREAM COMMONS ASSISTED LIVINGMillstream Commons Assisted Living is located in downtown Northfield. 44 Assisted Living apart-ments (studio, 1 and 2 BR) featuring three meals a day, supportive nursing care, respite care, & life enrichment activities. Pets allowed. Licensed Housing with Services provider. Part of the Three Links Community. Member of Aging Services of Minnesota. 210 8th St W, Northfield, 507-650-9627, threelinks.org

NORTHFIELD URGENT CARE Tired of waiting to see your doctor for simple prob-lems like sore throats and earaches? We provide walk-in medical care for all ages, from infants to adults. We are open 7 days per week and no ap-pointment is needed! Quick, easy and efficient! 2014 Jefferson Rd Suite C, Northfield, MN 55057, 507-664-9999, www.northfieldurgentcare.com.

PAT DUNN’S NUTRITION CENTERMake your health and wellness a top priority! Pat has been helping people on their journey to successful weight loss (and maintenance!) in Northfield and the surrounding communities for 30 years. Pat provides individual counseling on Weight Loss, Body Composition, Nutrition, Menopause and sells only all-natural supple-ments and herbs. 500 Water St S, Northfield, MN 507.663.6121 [email protected]

PAULA J. DETJEN, MA, LMFT, LPC Licensed Family Therapist serving children, teens, adults & couples in downtown Northfield, MN. Areas of expertise: anxiety, depression, grief/loss, self-image, relationships, transitions, school & work challenges, family issues, and gambling concerns. A solution-focused therapist, provid-ing support, practical feedback, integrating meth-odologies & techniques to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. With compassion & understanding, builds on individual’s strengths & helps others achieve their personal goals. 105 E Fourth St, Suite 301, Northfield, 507-581-0430, www.DetjenCounseling.com


Girlfriends Guide

REPOSE MASSAGE THERAPYAffordable stress and pain relief for busy people! Downtown Owatonna, 117 Broadway. Treatment sessions from ten to 90 minutes. Chair, hot stone, facial massage, Thai, muscle release technique (sports) massage. For details visit www.owaton-namassage.com. By appointment only: 507-323-5031 or e-mail: [email protected]

THE CRISIS PREGNANCY CENTER OF NORTHFIELDThe Crisis Pregnancy Center of Northfield offers free and confidential assistance to anyone experi-encing an unplanned pregnancy. Our services in-clude: Pregnancy tests, baby and maternity items, confidential counseling, parenting, education, , abortion, adoption, birth control and STD infor-mation. Hours: MWF 12-5, Th 12-7 www.cpc-northfield.org

THE NORTHFIELD AREA FAMILY YMCAThe Northfield Area Family YMCA is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing opportunities for all individuals, families, and the community to achieve their fullest potential. From summer camps, to youth sports, to preschool activities and adult wellness, we have something for everyone. Become a member of the YMCA! 519 Division Street, Northfield 507-645-0088, www.north-fieldymca.org. Scholarships are available to ensure everyone can participate.

• Home & Garden

CEDAR FLORALCedar Floral is located in downtown Owatonna. We are a full service floral shop, specializing in gift and home décor items, custom silk arrangements and the freshest quality flowers available. Our professional design staff is here to assist you. 314 N Cedar, Owatonna, 507-451-7673. www.cedar-

floral.com

JUDYS FLORAL DESIGNWhether Your Wedding is black tie/ ballroom or barefoot on the beach or somewhere in between! Beautiful, quality flowers and great ideas start with Judy Smith. “Specializing in fresh creative and affordable blooms for all the flower moments of your life” 507-645-0008, 300 Railway St. North, Dundas, judysfloraldesign.com

NORTHFIELD CONSTRUCTION COMPANYNorthfield Construction Company handles all types of residential remodeling---and promises a clean job site at all times. You and your dwell-ing are respected at all times—no lost pets, no smoking---just good work. For all your remodel-ing needs contact Ray Cox at 507-645-8975. www.northfieldconstruction.net

OWATONNA MORTGAGEFinancing, or refinancing a home doesn’t have to be a complicated procedure if you have the right professional to guide you through the process. With Owatonna Mortgage you are guaranteed to receive supreme client care and trustworthy advice throughout the entire process. We know how valu-able and precious your time is. NMLS #320358. 507-676-2708, 122 N Cedar, Suite A, Owatonna, www.facebook.com/OwatonnaMortgage

SIMON BROS CEMENT CO.Simon Bros Cement Co. has been serving the Northfield area since 1969. We specialize in qual-ity concrete and masonry including foundations, driveways, epoxy garage floors. Call for a free es-timate. We will look at your project and use 40+ years of experience to share ideas and advice. Call Ray 612-328-4591

• Insurance

AMERICAN FAMILY INSURANCE BART JACKSON AGENCY American Family Insurance offers home, automo-bile, atv, motorcycle, boat, commercial business, farm and life insurance. We are available to meet with you personally to review your situation and provide recommendations as to the proper cover-age’s for your needs. Bart Jackson Insurance Agen-cy 511 4th St NW, Faribault, MN 55021. 507-332-6812.

AMERICAN FAMILY INSURANCE THERESE WHITESONG AGENCYWe’re a J.D. Power and Associates Distinguished Insurance Agency. We’re among a select group that demonstrated the ability to consistently deliver “An Outstanding Customer Experience.” Whether you need insurance for your auto, home, life, health, or business, we listen to you to determine the right insurance that fits your needs. Therese Whitesong Agency, American Family Insurance. Telephone: 507-645-5010, 510 Washington St South, North-field, www.ThereseWhitesong.com

• Shopping

FOCUS ON FABRIC Focus on Fabric, located in the heart of historic downtown Faribault, offers cotton fabric for gen-eral sewing and quilting with a good range of sew-ing notions and supplies. If you don’t find it here when you visit my shop I will search my vendors to locate it for you. My goal is to meet your sewing needs! I also offer basic sewing and quilting classes for all levels. Please come see me for your sewing needs. 218 Central Ave N, Faribault, 507-331-7500, Focusonfabric.com

THE PAPER PETALUMThe Paper Petalum in the historic Archer House (212 Division St.) offers friendly customer service and unique gifts for all occasions. Locally owned and operated since 1987 we specialize in Scandina-vian gifts, Minnesota products, decorative napkins, Polish Pottery, Rothschild foods, and much, much more. Stop in and visit us. 507-663-0565.

• Transportation

COMMUNITY CO-OPThe Community Co-op is located in beautiful and historic downtown Faribault, MN. We were or-ganized in 1925 and have been a cornerstone of this community ever since. We specialize in fuels, lubricants, tires, and vehicle service, all for an af-fordable price. Women live busy lives, our staff un-derstands how important service and convenience are. That is why we are the Company where our customers send their friends. 9 Central Ave, Farib-ault (507)334-2056, www.coopoilfblt.com

NORTHFIELD LINES, INC.Have your group arrive in style when you pull up in one of our luxurious motor or mini coaches. Single or multi-day sightseeing trips, shopping, girlfriend getaways, dining, concerts, weddings, receptions, casino visits – you name the event and we will get your group there safely and on time. 32611 Northfield Blvd, Northfield, 800-944-2190, www.northfieldlines.com


507-334-5488 | 12 3rd Street NE, Faribault | gingersnapshots.com

GingerSnaps Photography by Kelli Wencl

Dedicated Teachers • Christian Values • Successful Studentswww.bacards.org

celebrating 150 years in 2015!faribault, mn • 507-334-3948

“Tell me and I forget, Teach me and I remember, Involve me and I learn.”

– Benjamin Franklin

Documents

Girlfriends Spring 2012